Sony Xperia 1 IV vs Xiaomi 15

The Verdict

Sony's Xperia 1 IV targets professionals with its 3840 x 1644 OLED display and Cinema Pro video tools, delivering exceptional color accuracy and cinematic recording at 4K 120fps. The 12MP multi-camera system excels in zoom versatility with continuous 85-125mm optical range, though individual sensor resolution lags behind competitors. Battery life proves adequate at 5000mAh with 15W wireless charging. Xiaomi's 15 dominates value territory at one-third the price, packing the newer Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, superior 3200-nit brightness, and more aggressive charging at 90W wired plus 50W wireless. Its 50MP sensors capture more detail, 8K video capability exists (though limited to 24fps), and Wi-Fi 7 provides connectivity advantages. Display resolution favors Sony's ultrawide 3840 x 1644 format, but Xiaomi's 1-120Hz LTPO AMOLED with vastly higher brightness proves more practical for outdoor use. Performance-wise, the 8 Elite marginally outpaces the Gen 1 chipset. Sony justifies premium positioning through professional-grade video features, color science, and refined design, while Xiaomi delivers better everyday performance, faster charging, and sharper sensors for mainstream users. Choose Sony only if Cinema Pro workflow justifies the $1000 premium; otherwise, Xiaomi 15 represents exceptional value.