Sony follows Z3 announcement with unveiling of Z3 Compact

Sony this morning announced the follow on from the Xperia Z2, the Xperia Z3. Along with it, we also got the compact version of the device, which similar hardware in a smaller package. This is for those that want the prestige of a flagship device but don’t want the hefty size or price that is quickly becoming synonymous with these phones.

The Z3 Compact is runs on the same Snapdragon 801 chipset with 2.5 GHz quad-core processor as the Xperia Z3. However, it knocks the RAM down to just 2 GB from the Z3’s 3 GB of memory. It also has a 4.6-inch display with a lower 1280 x 720 pixel resolution as opposed to the 5.2-inch 1080p display in the Xperia Z3.

Though they are alike in name, perhaps it’s not fair to compare the Z3 and the Z3 Compact so closely. So let’s look at the device as we would any another: The Z3 Compact packs the aforementioned 2.5 GHz processor with Adreno 330 graphics, a 4.6-inch 720p 319 ppi display, 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of storage, MicroSD support for up to 64 GB, a 20.7MP camera, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, and a 2600 mAh battery. Certainly not bad for a mid-range smartphone, though we’re a bit disappointed Sony didn’t keep the 1080p resolution. We’d also like to see a bigger battery.

Pricing isn’t available just yet, but it will have to sit somewhere between lower-end devices like the just announced  Xperia E3 and older M2 and the flagship Z3. We’ll keep you posted on that.