Sony Xperia Z3 Compact hand-on review: Hardware

Although the phone is exactly the same size as before (the Z1 Compact), Sony has managed to increase the screen size from 4.3- to 4.6in thanks to smaller bezels around the edge. The resolution remains at 720p so the bigger display does mean a drop in pixel density to 319ppi but this isn't really a big deal.

Much of the device's hardware is the same as the full-size Xperia Z3 which is what most mini versions do not achieve. Inside is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 quad-core processor clocked at 2.5 GHz. It does have less RAM at 2GB, but this is nothing to worry about really. Storage remains at 16GB and there's the usual microSD card slot for adding more memory (up to 128GB) if you should wish to do so.

Sony touts a two day battery life for the Xperia Z3 Compact which is the same as the flagship model. The battery itself is larger at 2600mAh compared to 2300mAh of the Z1 Compact but the processor is clocked higher. Stamina mode remains a staple feature helping users get better battery life by switching off functions like Wi-Fi when the screen is off.

Compared to some handsets on the market, namely Samsung, the Xperia Z3 Compact appears lacking in additional features. Yes, it has 11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0 and NFC but nothing along the lines of an IR blaster, fingerprint scanner or wireless charging.

Instead, Sony is aiming the Z3 range at music fans with support for High-Res audio including a first for smartphones, playback of DSD files. This will apply if you have a suitable pair of headphones like Sony's MDR-1A range. If you haven't splashed out on high-res music then the DSEE HD (digital sound enhancement engine) will upscale it to near high-re quality.

Sony Xperia Z3 Compact hand-on review: Cameras

There's no scrimping when it comes to photography so the Z3 Compact has the same 20.7Mp rear camera with Exmor RS sensor as its big brother. Sony has used this in previous smartphones but the Z3 devices include a new 25mm wide-angle lens and a super high ISO of 12800 for improved shooting in low light. There are also new camera apps including Sticker creator and Live on YouTube.