Even though they're all the rage, not everyone likes large phones. That's why there are so many mini versions of larger flagship phones, and Sony now has this, the mini version of the Xperia Z1. The usual thing manufacturers do with a mini version is reduce the price but they also reduce the number features or compromise with respect to hardware. This is not the case with Sony. The Z1 Compact is not cheap — it's for someone who wants a powerful, flagship phone in a more manageable size.
In other words, it pretty much like Sony took a shrink ray to the Z1 — it's smaller and lighter by a significant amount (137 vs 170 grams for the Z1) but internal specs remain the same. All except for one vital stat: battery size. The Z1 compact has a 2,300mAh battery vs 3,000mAh in the Z1. Physics can't be defeated just yet.
Meanwhile, the Z1 Compact retains all the charm, performance, looks, water proofing and desirability of the Z1 in a size that will fit into any pocket. It has a one-piece aluminium frame and it feels great to hold. As usual, all the flaps have to be tightly shut to ensure water proofing. The 3.5mm audio out is not covered with a flap but is still water proof. The 4.3-inch screen does not have the 1080p resolution of the Z1, but that doesn't matter: pixel density is a very high 342ppi, still higher than what the iPhone 5S offers. Display quality is generally very pleasing — probably a tad better than the Z1 too. It has slightly better colour, better viewing angles and better contrast.
The 20.7MP camera is identical to the one on the Z1. It also has the same software features from the Z1 including AR Effect, Timeshift Burst, Sweep Panorama and Info Eye. Overall, we couldn't find many faults with the device apart from the facts that the back panel scratches too easily and the current price makes it more expensive than flagships like the Galaxy S4 and LG G2.
Specifications: 4.3-inch (1280 x 720 pixels), 2.2Ghz quad core, 2GB RAM, 16GB storage + microSD, 20.7MP rear + 2MP front cam, IP58 certified, BT 4.0, 2,300mAh, 137g
Positives: Fully waterproof, compact size, gorgeous unibody design with top-notch build quality, great performance, high quality screen