Sony Xperia X Compact review: an expensive toy. Sony Xperia X Compact – first look Sony Xperia X Compact

Design in the style of Sony Xperia XZ, USB Type-C, new body colors, laser focusing camera, Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 chipset. The X Compact will go on sale this month - let’s get acquainted with the smartphone...

Live photos

Design, construction

Before moving on to the X Compact, let me take a short excursion into the history of Sony “compacts”. In the beginning there was the Z1 Compact, and many (rightly) consider it the best - the flagship inherited design, high-quality materials, a camera, and the smartphone was liked by both connoisseurs of small smartphones and girls. I myself spent a long time with a yellow smartphone; there simply wasn’t another one like it on the market.

Then the Z3 Compact appeared, where plastic was used instead of metal ends, which caused indignation among many. However, many appreciated the compact body and characteristics of a flagship - it had the same processor as the Z3.

So we got to the Z5 Compact, which is still quite relevant today. The yellow body has been returned again, the use of plastic has become a tradition, and the characteristics are like those of the flagship Z5 with differences characteristic of a “compact”.

Now imagine that you have already seen the XZ and you are asked to guess what the X Compact will be like.

I think that even without any preparation, every advanced student will predict everything as accurately as possible. Alas, there is no metal “back” here – plastic is used. But the futuristic design has not gone away, the smartphone looks like a solid block - if we talk about the black color, then the fingerprints are immediately visible, but on light-colored smartphones they are not so noticeable. If you don't like marks, choose white or smoky blue. Naturally, when choosing colors, they probably counted on girls; it is the weaker sex who are the main consumers of the device (I think so, life will judge). Don't like the blue one? Well, there is a black one with an interesting shade and a snow-white X Compact. The dimensions are small, the smartphone literally fits in the palm of your hand and is invisible in your pocket. Beautiful - definitely. The ends are flat, the device can be placed, on the bottom there is a USB Type-C connector, on the top – 3.5 mm, on the left there is a slot for a memory card or SIM card, on the right there are volume buttons, cameras, and power buttons with a built-in fingerprint sensor. The body has been polished to the utmost, look at these joints, the design of various details, they got rid of everything unnecessary, leaving only what is necessary. I really like the design of the XZ/X Compact, the simplest shape possible, that’s about what I expected.

Of course, there will be those who will not like all this, but this is how it always happens.

Unlike the XZ, there will only be a version with one SIM card, 32 GB memory, and a microSD memory card can easily be installed in the slot.

There is no protection from water here.

Display

The diagonal of the IPS display is 4.6 inches, HD resolution is quite normal for a device of this size (and for the battery too). There is support for proprietary TRILUMINOS technologies, when viewing photos or videos, the colors of the pictures look better, X-Reality Engine, an “enhancer” for video.

The display protection is slightly curved, all in keeping with modern trends.

Peculiarities

Initially, FLAC, ALAC, DSD are supported, there is an LDAC codec for Bluetooth, Sony is diligently expanding the line of accessories with LDAC support. Finally, synchronization between departments is visible - laser focusing is now available for both cameras and smartphones, the device can be used as a screen for PS4, recordings converted into digital form from the PS-HX500 vinyl player can be played back on the Sony Xperia X Compact. I know, these are very conditional advantages, but in our time of outright boredom in the electronics market, the approach commands respect - I wonder how much longer Sony will be able to follow such an unpopular path? I hope for a very, very long time.

A five-pin 3.5 mm connector is used, and noise-canceling headsets, microphones, and other accessories are supported.

Working hours

The battery has a capacity of 2700 mAh, there are proprietary STAMINA and UltraSTAMINA technologies, the X Compact will probably have better battery life than the XZ, but it all depends on how you use smartphones in everyday activities.

I already said about the USB Type-C connector, it will take some getting used to. Qnovo AdaptiveCharging technology is supported, which allows you to extend the battery life; there is also fast charging; using a special charger, you can reduce the charging time by half.

Performance

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 chipset is used, quite fresh and interesting, here Adreno 510 is responsible for graphics, which, of course, is good. You can view the characteristics. 3 GB of RAM, 32 GB of memory for user data, naturally a little less is available. Those devices that we were able to try behave quite normally - there will probably be no problems with modern games.

Like the XZ, it will have its own program of advice for the user, tips on using the device. The smartphone is released on Android 6.0, the update to the “seven” will take place without fail.

Cameras

The main camera is 23 MP, there is no 4K recording, but the rest is similar to the Sony Xperia XZ. They added laser autofocus - well, in general, this device has all focusing systems, from conventional to predictive. We'll see how this affects the pictures. It uses a 23 MP sensor for the main camera, 24 mm G-lens optics, and the BIONZ process for image processing. The camera, according to company representatives, is one of the main advantages of the device.

Let's try to list the features, most of which are new for Xperia in general:

• Laser autofocus helps you take clear, high-quality photos even in low-light conditions.
• In addition to laser, there is also predictive autofocus - it will help you take clear pictures of moving objects.
• Stabilization when shooting, we tried to shoot video and move our hands, the operation of the system is noticeable to the naked eye. By the way, this was a very interesting experience.
• You can now specify the area to focus by touching the screen.
• The sensor here is RGBC-IR, they say the colors turn out natural in a wide variety of shooting conditions.
• When shooting video, the sound is recorded in stereo; the smartphone has two microphones and a noise reduction system.
• There is a manual focusing system, but you will need some kind of tripod to achieve good results.
• You can also adjust the shutter speed(!) from 1/8 to 1/4000 s. Let me remind you again about the tripod.

Front camera 5 MP, wide-angle optics.

conclusions

Like other “compacts”, here is the best of the flagship Sony Xperia XZ (design, camera, LDAC, etc.) with adjustments for size - the display is smaller, the resolution is lower, the chipset is different, it’s a shame that there is no version with two SIM cards. The device will go on sale in September, apparently replacing the Z5 Compact. We can assume that the price will be at 35,000 rubles. It’s interesting, but the Z5 is still an interesting purchase – maybe they’ll adjust the price? Let's see.

How do you like your smartphone? I'm interested in your opinion - would you like to buy? What would you like to change in the Sony Xperia X Compact? Your opinion is very interesting and useful - it’s especially interesting to listen to the owners of previous “compacts”.

Sony Xperia X Compact smartphone review | Introduction

It's no secret that today it is very difficult to find a phone on the Android platform with a small diagonal and at the same time with powerful modern hardware. Sony Xperia X Compact- one of the rare representatives of this category. This smartphone was introduced in the fall of 2016 simultaneously with the flagship model Xperia XZ. The device replaced the obsolete Xperia Z5 Compact and received a new body, a more powerful processor, increased RAM and a new USB Type-C port. At the same time, it retained its main advantages - compactness and a 4.6-inch screen with HD resolution.

Sony Xperia X Compact smartphone review | Main technical characteristics

Main technical characteristics of Sony Xperia X Compact (F5321)
Display	4.6-inch TRILUMINOS 1280 x 720 pixels, 325 ppi with Corning Gorilla Glass
CPU	6-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 64-bit
Graphics accelerator	Adreno 510
RAM	3 GB
Persistent memory	32 GB expandable with microSDXC cards up to 256 GB
Networks	GSM GPRS/EDGE (2G), UMTS HSPA+ (3G), LTE (4G) category 6
Wireless modules	A-GNSS (GPS + GLONASS), Wi-Fi Miracast, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC, FM radio
Sensors	illumination, proximity, gyroscope, accelerometer, fingerprint
Front-camera	5 MP, 1/5-inch Exmor R sensor, 25mm wide-angle lens with F2.4 aperture
Main camera	23 MP, 1/2.3-inch Exmor R sensor, 24mm wide-angle Sony G Lens, hybrid autofocus, 5x Clear Image digital zoom, Full HD video (1080, 60 fps), HDR photo
SIM cards	1 x nano-SIM
operating system	Android 6.0, upgradable to 7.0
dimensions	129 x 65 x 9.5 mm
Weight	135 g
Price on the official website sony.ru	32,990 rubles

Sony Xperia X Compact smartphone review | Packaging and accessories

Smartphone Sony Xperia X Compact Comes in a small white hard cardboard box with Sony, Xperia logos and a subtle "X" on the front and right side of the top cover.

The package includes a USB Type-A/Type-C cable, a wall charger and brief instructions for getting started with the device. There is no headset or any other accessories in the box - the owner is given the opportunity to choose them himself.

Sony Xperia X Compact smartphone review | Appearance and design

Although Sony Xperia X Compact It seems to belong to the X family; in design, this smartphone is similar not to the “older” Xperia X, but to the Xperia XZ (phone_170311.rhg), presented simultaneously with it in the fall of 2016. Both devices feature a new design concept, Loop Surface, which is characterized by smoothed corners between the front and rear panels and side ends. The external differences between them come down primarily to size and materials - while the Xperia XZ is housed in a waterproof metal case, the X Compact is made of glossy plastic and cannot boast of any water resistance.

Sony Xperia X Compact Available in three colors: “smoky blue”, “space black” and “snow white”. We tested a white version that looks very attractive.

On the right side Sony Xperia X Compact There is a power and lock button with a built-in fingerprint sensor, a rocking volume key, as well as a hardware button for turning on the camera and releasing the shutter, which significantly increases the ease of use of the smartphone when shooting photos or videos.

Ends Sony Xperia X Compact are made completely flat: on the top there is a 3.5 mm audio jack and a microphone hole, and on the bottom there is a USB Type-C port.

Sony Xperia X Compact smartphone review | Hardware platform

Sony Xperia X Compact built on the basis of not the most powerful, but six-core 64-bit Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 processor (2 x ARM Cortex-A72 1.80 GHz + 4 x ARM Cortex-A53 1.40 GHz) with built-in Adreno 510 graphics accelerator. Meanwhile, performance this chip is more than enough for a 4.6-inch smartphone with HD resolution (1280 x 720 pixels). By the way, the screen recognizes up to 10 simultaneous touches.

Moreover, integrated graphics with support for OpenGL WS 3.2 / Open CL 2.0 and DirectX 12 demonstrate very convincing results both in benchmarks and in the most demanding video games.

The smartphone is equipped with 3 GB of RAM and a 32 GB eMMC flash drive, of which about 12 GB are occupied by the operating system and pre-installed software, and about 20 are available to the user. The memory can be further expanded with microSD cards with a capacity of up to 32 GB.

Sony Xperia X Compact is a mini version of the current flagship, the release of which quite a lot of fans of the brand were waiting for. In the best traditions of Sony, the model was presented with a new flagship - a smartphone. New design, implementation of new technologies in the field of photo capabilities and comfort of use for all fans of compact devices - this is what the emphasis is on in Sony Xperia X Compact. For the most part, the model fully complies with the ideology of releasing models of the “Compact” series, but there are still some points that at first could cause some doubts among ardent fans of “Compacts”.

ExternalviewXperia X Compact

The updated design is called Loop Surface, and its essence lies in the smooth flow of one side of the case to the other, which is ensured by the use of 2.5D glass, smoothly merging with the side edge on one side and the rounded back cover, turning into the same edge, but with the other side. The body is made of plastic with a glossy finish, visually and tactilely close to ceramics. The lower and upper edges are flat, and the transition to them is slightly angular - this solution is clearly new for the manufacturer. Even with the design changes, we see that Sony has not deviated from its core concept of symmetry and convenience.

The combination of such design solutions and small dimensions (129 x 65 x 9.5 mm and weight 135 grams) make it completely comfortable to hold the smartphone in your hand and really pleasant to use, both in terms of ergonomics and tactile sensations. A big disappointment was the lack of moisture protection, although the case may have splash protection, which the company decided not to even disclose.

The body colors in which the smartphone will be available differ from the classic color schemes thanks to a complex combination of different shades that were taken from various natural phenomena: Mist Blue (smoky blue), Universe Black (cosmic black) and White (snow white). For example, Mist Blue is a completely new color for the line and is the color of steam rising over a lake and merging with the blue sky - just think how much the designers went into creating each of the shades.

Technical specificationsSonyXperiaXCompact

Sony was almost the only well-known brand on the market that offered compact smartphones with top-end hardware specifications, and users involuntarily perceive such models from the Japanese as mini-flagships. But this time the company refused to install a flagship chipset, using the Snapdragon 650 - a similar chip as the Xperia X. In principle, there is logic in this, since this is a mini version, judging by the name of the “X” model, and not “XZ” – this is worth understanding.

Moreover, even this solution will provide high performance, whereas the use of Snapdragon 820 would be excessive in this situation and would only lead to an increase in the price of the smartphone. Users who are accustomed to the fact that Compact smartphones technically fully correspond to the title of mini-flagship may be somewhat upset. In fact, the Snapdragon 650 with a 6-core processor and Adreno 510 video accelerator, with proper software optimization and the use of a 4.6-inch screen with HD resolution (1280 by 720 pixels), will show excellent performance in real life - it’s time to realize that the time for competing for the highest numbers in benchmarks.

Traditionally, the smartphone has a 4.6-inch screen, but with the same HD resolution and pixel density of 319ppi, which is a little confusing in 2016, given the positioning of the model. Yes, such a display is less demanding on resources, but in our opinion it would be fashionable to use a more progressive matrix with Full HD. Additional improvements include the use of TRILUMINOS and X-Reality technologies. The screen, unlike its predecessors, has become noticeably better, the colors are richer, the blacks are deeper. The model will come in one version with 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal memory with a slot for microSD cards up to 256 GB. A fingerprint scanner is built into the power button. The model's audio capabilities are flagship - there are two stereo speakers and all proprietary sound enhancement technologies.

It’s good that the battery was not cut down – its capacity is 2700 mAh. There are advanced battery saving technologies Qnovo Adaptive Charging and Battery Care - gentle charging. Well, the presence of a special adapter (not included) allows you to quickly charge your smartphone. Let's see what kind of autonomy the Xperia X Compact will show, but for now the manufacturer guarantees a full day and a half from one charge in use mode. I think the presence of all modern sensors and wireless connection modules is not necessary; I will only note the use of the new USB Type-C format, which is good news.

Introducing a smartphone on video:

Main characteristics of the Xperia X Compact F5321 model:

Flagship camera

Naturally, being a company directly related to the development of photo technologies, Sony did not cut down on the main camera in the new “Compact”, using all the same technological features as in the Xperia XZ. The smartphone also received a 23 Megapixel main module (sensor model IMX300) with predictive hybrid autofocus, with fast focus locking on the subject, which follows it if it moves. The module comes to the aid of two more sensors: the first is a sensor with laser focusing, which increases the focusing speed and its efficiency in low light conditions, the second is an RGBc-IR (infrared sensor) sensor that allows you to adjust the white balance and preserve colors in their natural form.

In manual shooting mode, it became possible to configure various parameters: selection of exposure, white balance, focus type, exposure. Exposure by tap and manual focusing on objects have also become available. Video shooting in 4K is not announced, but Full HD at 60 frames per second is welcome. But the front camera has more boring parameters - a 5-megapixel sensor with a wide-angle lens (essentially the same as the previous Z5 Compact).

In contact with

This compact smartphone with an updated exterior and a bright 4.6-inch screen has received almost flagship-level power, as well as premium sound and photo options. Vesti.Hi-tech figured out all the advantages and disadvantages of the Sony Xperia X Compact.

The growing demand for devices with screens of 5 inches and above has not forced Sony to abandon its “traditional values,” so it consistently produces devices with smaller display diagonals. Moreover, sometimes these devices receive the most powerful filling. One such example can be cited, which, without much exaggeration, was called the “small flagship”.

But at the IFA 2016 exhibition in Berlin, together with the new leader of the family (read our review), they announced the 4.6-inch Xperia X Compact smartphone. Both of these devices are made in a single design concept called Loop Surface. The main filling, including the processor and memory, came to the new compact not from the flagship, but from the “progenitor” of the X-series model. But the declared capabilities of the main camera (thanks to the technology of interaction of three sensors) promise clear pictures of moving objects with realistic color rendition in almost any conditions.

Specifications

• Model: F5321
• OS: Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) with Xperia proprietary shell
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 6-core 64-bit (MSM8956), ARMv8 architecture, 2 ARM Cortex-A72 cores (1.8 GHz) + 4 ARM Cortex-A53 cores (1.4 GHz), Hexagon V56 DSP coprocessor
• Graphics subsystem: Adreno 510 (550 MHz)
• RAM: 2-channel LPDDR3 (933 MHz), 3 GB
• Storage: 32 GB eMMC, microSD/HC/XC memory card support (up to 256 GB)
• Screen: 4.6 inches, IPS Triluminos, 720p (1280x720 pixels), X-Reality, Dynamic Contrast Enhancement, pixel density per inch 319 ppi, Corning Gorilla Glass 2.5D protective glass
• Main camera: 23 MP, Sony Exmor RS, (1/2.3-inch optical size), triple sensor technology, wide-angle G Lens, 24 mm EGF, f/2.0 aperture, 5x Clear Image zoom, predictive hybrid autofocus, 5-axis stabilization, LED flash, Full HD@60 fps shooting
• Front camera 5 MP, Sony Exmor R (optical size 1/5 inch), EGF 25 mm, f/2.4 aperture
• Network: GSM/GPRS/EDGE, UMTS HSPA+, LTE Cat.6 (up to 300/50 Mbit/s)
• Interfaces: Bluetooth 4.2 (LE, LDAC), Wi-Fi 802.11 ac/b/g/n (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), Miracast, DLNA, NFC, 3.5 mm headphone jack, USB Type-C ( USB-OTG),
• SIM card format: nanoSIM (4FF)
• Slot configuration: nanoSIM + microSD/HD/XC
• Sound: LDAC, DSEE HX, High-Resolution Audio, Clear Audio+, S-Force Front Surround
• Navigation: GPS/GLONASS, A-GPS
• Radio: FM tuner
• Sensors: accelerometer, light and proximity sensors, gyroscope, compass (Hall sensor), barometer, fingerprint scanner
• Battery: non-removable, lithium polymer, 2,700 mAh, Battery Care, Qnovo, Quick Charge technologies
• Dimensions: 129x65x9.5 mm
• Weight: 135 grams
• Color: Smoke Blue, Space Black and Snow White

Design, ergonomics

The new miniature smartphone complements the Xperia X family with a compact form factor. As already noted, the Xperia X Compact and the leader of the family received a single concept of ergonomics and design. The glossy body of the “baby” is available in three color options with romantic names: smoky blue (we got the device in this color for testing), space black and snow white. Moreover, unlike the flagship, the back panel of the compact is not metal, but plastic. But the combination of gloss and paint used creates the illusion of glazed ceramics (and some even see an enameled surface). It was also noted that the source of inspiration for the development of this flagship seems to have been the symmetrical shape of the USB Type-C connector - in cross-section, the shape of the case rhymes with the shape of the charging socket.

At the same time, the Loop Surface design used, with curved edges and body edges flowing smoothly into each other, should create a sense of continuity. The overall dimensions in terms of the Xperia X Compact, of course, are predictably smaller than the 5.2-inch - (146x72 mm) versus (129x65 mm), although the compact, at the same time, turned out to be somewhat thicker (8.1 mm versus 9.5 mm). By the way, compared to the “small flagship” it also does not win in size - 127.3x64.7x8.99 mm for its predecessor versus 129x65x9.5 mm for the new product, except that it weighs 3 grams less, 135 g.

Note that the flagship dust and moisture protection for the new shorty was generally considered unnecessary.

The entire front panel is covered with Corning Gorilla Glass with a 2.5D effect.

The Sony logo was placed under the small upper cutout of the decorative grille (the “talking”) speaker. To the left of it was the front camera lens, and to the right were the proximity and light sensors, as well as (invisible when turned off) a charging/notification LED indicator.

Below the display there is a lot of free space, since there is only a grille cutout for the second ("multimedia") speaker, next to which there is also a "conversational" microphone. The control panel touch buttons ("Back", "Home" and "Recent Applications") are traditionally located on the screen itself, where they are displayed with branded icons ("triangle", "house" and "square").

At the top end there is a hole for a second microphone (noise reduction) and a 3.5 mm connector for an audio headset.

A symmetrical USB Type-C connector for charging/synchronization is chosen at the bottom end of the case.

On the left edge there is a combined slot closed with a plug, where the tray has space for a subscriber identification module (nanoSIM format) and a microSD memory card. The slot plug, which is flexibly attached directly to the tray, is easy to pry off with your fingernail. Note that when you try to open it while the smartphone is turned on, the system reboots.

On the right edge, we put together a volume rocker, a dedicated camera control key, as well as an oblong power/lock button, which owes its shape to the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner combined with it. Unlike other mechanical elements, this key is completely recessed into the body and is not painted.

In the middle of the rear panel they put the name of the family - Xperia, and also allocated a place for the NFC antenna, which was marked with the corresponding logo.

At the top of this panel there was a hole for the main camera lens, as well as a slot for a block (which, unlike the flagship, turned out to be horizontal rather than vertical), including a laser autofocus sensor, an RGBC-IR sensor and an LED flash.

Thanks to the 4.6-inch screen diagonal and streamlined side edges of the compact body, the smartphone is easy to operate by holding it with one hand.

However, the same problem remains in the ergonomics of the Xperia X Compact - the volume rocker is too low. To control it, the device has to be grabbed in the palm of your hand or helped with the other hand. Note that the surface of the case is moderately slippery to the touch.

Screen, camera, sound

As already noted, the Xperia X Compact has a small, by modern standards, 4.6-inch screen. On an IPS matrix with a resolution of 1280x720 pixels, a pixel density per inch of 319 ppi is achieved. A set of proprietary technologies from Sony includes Triluminos, X-Realty for mobile and Dynamic Contrast Enhancement. Even at large viewing angles, the image on the screen is almost not distorted or dimmed.

The backlight range from minimum to maximum is quite wide. It is proposed to set a specific brightness value either manually or relying entirely on the “Adaptive adjustment” option. It is easy to adjust the desired color temperature of the screen (the “White Balance” option) yourself, using separate adjustments for color channels R, G and B. In addition, it is possible to save battery power, for example, by enabling the intelligent backlight control function (“Control” backlight"), which detects when the device is in the hand. To double-tap to wake up your smartphone from sleep mode, and also control the device without taking off your gloves, you need to activate the appropriate options in the “Display” section. There is also an option available to quickly turn on the camera without unlocking it.

The touch capacitive screen responds quite clearly to touches. At the same time, the MultiTouch Tester program was able to recognize ten simultaneous touches. The result, however, did not work out the first time, since placing a dozen fingers on a small screen turned out to be a difficult task. To improve the quality of photos and videos, ensuring high-quality color reproduction during playback, it is proposed to enable the X-Reality for mobile or “Ultimate Brightness Mode” option. The quality of the oleophobic coating on Corning Gorilla Glass 2.5D did not raise any complaints.

The compact smartphone received the same main photo module as the one, including a 23-megapixel Exmor RS sensor (optical size 1/2.3 inches), a wide-angle Sony G Lens lens with an equivalent focal length (EF) of 24 mm and an aperture f/ 2.0, as well as an LED flash. The image stabilization here is 5-axis, digital (SteadyShot and Intelligent Active Mode technologies). Predictive hybrid (combining phase and contrast methods) autofocus in Exmor RS predicts the movement of subjects to obtain clear frames. The maximum image resolution for classic (4:3) and widescreen (16:9) aspect ratios is 5520x4120 pixels (23 MP) and 5984x3366 pixels (20 MP), respectively.

As you know, the main feature of the updated camera was the technology of interaction between three sensors, since two more sensors were added to Exmor RS. At the same time, laser autofocus measures the distance to the objects being photographed in low light conditions. But the third sensor - RGBC-IR is responsible for obtaining natural colors in the image, selecting the white balance depending on the light source when shooting.

The front camera only has a 5-megapixel Exmor R sensor (1/5-inch optical size), as well as a wide-angle lens with 25 mm EGF and f/2.4 aperture. The maximum image resolution for the classic (4:3) and widescreen (16:9) aspect ratios here are 2592x1944 pixels (5 MP) and 2592x1458 pixels (3.7 MP), respectively.

Both cameras can shoot video in Full HD quality (1920x1080) at 30 fps, while the main photo module provides a maximum frame rate of 60 fps. Note that the Xperia X Compact did not have room for shooting 4K video. Multimedia content is saved in MP4 container files (AVC - video, AAC - audio).

The interface and capabilities of the Camera application (with an abundance of manual settings) have remained virtually unchanged on the compact. You can read more about the software for its cameras, for example, in our reviews of the flagship and base model. As with other Xperia smartphones, shooting on automatic, unfortunately, does not always give the desired result. Examples of photos can be viewed.

The speakers on the front panel sound quite loud and rich, and at the same time, they can work in stereo mode. The sound options inherited from the compact were left essentially unchanged. The ClearAudio+ function is used to automatically optimize sound parameters, and a manual alternative is a 5-band equalizer with presets. For headphones and speakers, surround sound support is provided through the implementation of Virtual Phone Technology (concert hall, club, studio) and S Force Front Surround, respectively. The dynamic normalizer, in turn, is designed to equalize the volume of different songs or videos. In addition, Hi-Res Audio and DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) HX technologies are supported, as well as the LDAC (Lossless Digital Audio Coding) codec. The built-in FM tuner only works when a wired headset is connected, which it needs as a shortwave antenna.

Filling, performance

The main hardware of the Xperia X Compact is the same as the base model. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 system-on-chip, which is manufactured in compliance with 28 nm design standards, has also found its application here.

This chip features a 6-core 64-bit processor with two powerful ARM Cortex-A72 cores clocked at up to 1.8 GHz and a quartet of energy-efficient Cortex-A53 cores with a maximum frequency of 1.4 GHz, as well as a Hexagon V56 DSP coprocessor. The Adreno 510 accelerator is responsible for processing graphic data. Other “facets” of this crystal include a dual ISP image processing coprocessor and Quick Charge 2.0 and 3.0 fast charging functions. In addition, the LTE X8 modem supports mobile terminal categories including LTE Cat. 7 (300/100 Mbit/s). On board, the Xperia X Compact also carries 3 GB of 2-channel LPDDR3 RAM (933 MHz). For obvious reasons, the results of most synthetic tests for the Xperia X Compact are almost the same.

Thus, on the AnTuTu benchmark, the compact smartphone scored approximately the same number of “virtual trophies” as the base model.

Horsepower ratings and processor core efficiency (Geekbench 4) characterize the Xperia X Compact as a mid-range device.

High results on the Epic Citadel visual test when changing settings sequentially (High Performance, High Quality, Ultra High Quality) are due to the relatively low screen resolution.

On the universal gaming benchmark 3DMark, where the smartphone was tested on the recommended Sling Shot set (ES 3.1), a result of 875 points was recorded (versus 871 for).

The total number of points earned by the Sony X Compact on the cross-platform benchmark Base Mark OS II was 1,719 (versus 1,506 for the base model).

After turning on the device, approximately 21.7 GB of 32 GB of internal memory was available. To expand storage, you can use a microSD/HC/XC memory card up to 256 GB. In addition, thanks to the support of USB-OTG technology, a regular flash drive is connected to the device via a special OTG cable (USB Type-C).

Among the available frequency bands of 4G networks for Russian users, LTE-FDD b3 (1,800 MHz), b7 (2,600 MHz) and b20 (800 MHz) are of particular interest, while providing support for the Cat.6 mobile terminal (300/50 Mbit /With). The wireless communications suite includes Wi-Fi 802.11 ac/b/g/n/ (2.4 and 5 GHz), Miracast, DLNA, Bluetooth 4.2 and NFC.

Using the "Moscow Transport Maps" application, it is easy to find out, for example, the balance of the Moscow "Troika" and the Moscow region "Strelka". After launching this program, the corresponding card is applied to the NFC antenna area on the back of the smartphone.

Satellites of the GPS and GLONASS constellations are used for positioning and navigation, as evidenced by the results of the AndroiTS GPS Test and GPS Test programs. There is also built-in support for A-GPS technology.

The capacity of the Xperia X Compact lithium-polymer battery (2,700 mAh), compared to the base model (2,620 mAh), has increased by only 80 mAh. The manufacturer notes support for two technologies - Qnovo, which allows you to preserve the battery life when charging, which almost doubles its service life, and Battery Care, which controls the charging process taking into account the owner's habits (battery filling is suspended at 90% and ends only just before shutdown). The "Battery Care" option is enabled in the "Battery" settings section. The Xperia X Compact smartphone supports Quick Charge fast charging technology, however, we were unable to test its operating speed due to the lack of a proprietary adapter.

The AnTuTu Tester program, having thoroughly tortured the smartphone’s battery, estimated the result achieved on the test at 9,928 points. With a fully charged battery, the Xperia X Compact, according to the manufacturer, can maintain a conversation for up to 11/14 hours (GSM/UMTS) or remain in standby mode for up to 710/750 hours (GSM/UMTS). Under the same initial conditions, 65 hours are allocated for listening to music or 10.8 hours for playing video. A test set of videos in MP4 format (hardware decoding) and HD quality at full brightness played continuously for about 6.5 hours.

Stamina's power saving mode takes care of the device's autonomy by reducing performance and limiting the operation of some functions. Stamina can be activated automatically at a certain battery level (15% by default). In turn, Ultra Stamina, by prohibiting wireless networks and significantly reducing the list of available applications, extends battery life even more significantly.

Software Features

The Xperia X Compact smartphone runs on the Android 6.0.1 operating system, the interface of which is hidden by the proprietary Xperia shell. In terms of software capabilities and a set of pre-installed applications, the compact is practically no different from the base model.

An ultrasonic fingerprint scanner built into the power/lock button increases the security of smartphone access. Fingerprint recognition works flawlessly.

Purchase, conclusions

The new smartphone combines some of the contents of the base model of the family and a number of premium options. One of the main advantages of the Xperia X Compact is, of course, its updated compact design. Other advantages of this ergonomic little thing include a bright and clear screen, flagship sound and photo capabilities, a convenient fingerprint scanner, and fast charging.

An obvious drawback of the compact device is the poor placement of the volume rocker. Could give an additional advantage The case is dust and moisture resistant, but this smartphone does not provide it.

In short, everything would be fine if not for the price. In large retail chains, at the time of testing, according to Yandex.Market, they asked for 35,990 rubles for the Xperia X Compact. For that kind of money it’s easy to find a more “serious” smartphone under a less popular brand. True, the Xperia X Compact simply has no third-party competitors in the 4.6-inch form factor. Although, if we put compactness at the forefront, then the newly minted short one cannot avoid internal rivalry. Well, for example, with, the filling of which, by modern standards, is now, of course, no longer flagship, but you can also buy it at retail somewhat cheaper (for about 30 thousand). True, in the Sony Store the price tags for the Xperia X Compact are small and the same.

Review results of the Sony Xperia X Compact smartphone

Pros:

• Updated compact design
• Bright and clear screen
• Flagship audio and photo capabilities
• Convenient fingerprint scanner
• Fast charging capability

Minuses:

• High price
• Lack of dust and moisture protection
• Poor placement of the volume rocker

Compactness, operating time, speed, unusual appearance

Minuses

The plastic is easily soiled, slippery and scratches easily.

Review

I walked around this phone for a long time. I was choosing between X compact, just X and Iphone SE. But, having picked up the compact, I wanted this particular phone. Yes, from the outside it seems like it doesn’t exist (especially in videos and pictures), but feel it in your hand, and maybe you’ll fall in love with it like I did. Of course, this design may not suit everyone, but for me it’s beautiful. Clear, smooth corners, all parts as one whole. I want to say bravo to the engineers and designers from Sony. The black color is chicly stylish (for men), the blue color will suit young girls (it will be good for a light walk, throwing it in the pocket of tight shorts, for example: D). There is enough power and battery for all tasks (we still leave everything at night to charge our phones no matter what). There is a minus (for some it may be significant) - the plastic is very easily soiled, scratches easily, and the phone can slip out of your hands (especially if they are clean). Foolishly, I bought a plastic case for it (hard) and it scratched the back panel. But despite this I am very pleased with the purchase. This is one of those things about which you can say the following when you pick it up: wow, I want it! And you rejoice when your wishes come true, like a child. And for some reason no super-powerful Chinese or Koreans gave me such an effect. And the simple Xperia X does not shine and looks dull. It’s a pity that Sony is thinking about stopping the production of such smart phones (sales failure, marketing department does not shine). If it came out with a more practical material, and not the current plastic, albeit more expensive, shut up and take my money.