Tiny But Mighty? Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact Full Review

In a world dominated by increasingly massive smartphones that barely fit in your pocket, Sony’s commitment to the compact form factor has been a breath of fresh air for many of us. When I first held the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact in my hands, I was immediately transported back to a time when phones were designed to be used with one hand.

Today, I’m diving deep into every aspect of this small but mighty device. Is it still worth considering? After spending three months with this phone as my daily driver, I’ve formed some strong opinions that might surprise you.

Whether you’re tired of massive phones that don’t fit in your pockets or simply prefer the ergonomics of a smaller device without compromising on performance, this comprehensive review will help you decide if the Xperia XZ2 Compact deserves a place in your pocket.

Quick Verdict: For Those in a Hurry

My Rating: 8.5/10

For those who don’t have time to read my full 4000+ word review, here’s the short version: The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact packs flagship-level performance into a truly pocket-sized device. While it’s not the newest model on the market, it still offers exceptional value for anyone seeking a smaller smartphone without major compromises.

What I loved: Perfect size for one-handed use, powerful performance, excellent camera, and solid battery life considering its size.

What could be better: No headphone jack, slightly thick design, and Sony’s UI has some quirks.

Check the current price on Amazon to see if it’s the right time to buy!

Comparison Table: How the XZ2 Compact Stacks Up

The Evolution of Sony’s Compact Series: Where It All Began

Before diving into the XZ2 Compact specifically, let’s take a quick look at Sony’s history with smaller smartphones. Sony has been one of the few manufacturers consistently offering high-end specifications in smaller form factors, with their “Compact” series being a cornerstone of their lineup for years.

The journey began with the Xperia Z1 Compact in 2014, which challenged the notion that smaller phones needed weaker specs. This philosophy continued through several generations, leading eventually to the XZ2 Compact in 2018.

While many manufacturers abandoned the smaller phone market entirely, Sony maintained their commitment to users who preferred more pocket-friendly devices. The XZ2 Compact represented a significant design shift for Sony, moving away from the angular design language of previous models to a more curved, modern aesthetic.

Unboxing Experience: First Impressions Matter

When I first received my XZ2 Compact, I was impressed by Sony’s minimalist yet premium packaging. Inside the box, I found:

• The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact phone
• USB-C charging cable
• Wall adapter
• Documentation
• USB-C to 3.5mm adapter (since the phone lacks a headphone jack)

Picking up the device for the first time, I was struck by two things: how surprisingly dense it felt for its size, and the refreshingly compact dimensions that allowed my thumb to reach across the entire screen without stretching.

Design and Build Quality: Small But Substantial

The XZ2 Compact makes no apologies for its design philosophy. Unlike many phones that prioritize thinness above all else, this device embraces a slightly chunkier profile (12.1mm at its thickest point) in exchange for better ergonomics and battery capacity.

Materials and Construction

Sony opted for a plastic back with an aluminum frame, which might disappoint those expecting glass at this price point. However, I’ve found this to be a practical choice that makes the phone less slippery and more durable than all-glass alternatives. The plastic has a pleasant matte finish that resists fingerprints admirably.

The front features Gorilla Glass 5, providing good protection against scratches and minor drops. After several months of use without a case (I like to live dangerously), my unit shows only minimal signs of wear.

Ergonomics and Hand Feel

This is where the XZ2 Compact truly shines. The curved back fits perfectly in the palm, and the compact dimensions (135 x 65 mm) make one-handed operation a breeze. I can reach all corners of the screen without adjusting my grip—something increasingly rare in today’s smartphone landscape.

The side-mounted fingerprint sensor falls naturally under your thumb (if right-handed) or index finger (if left-handed), though it’s positioned slightly lower than I’d prefer. The dedicated camera button is a nice addition that makes quick photography more convenient.

Color Options and Aesthetics

My unit came in Liquid Black, but the phone is also available in:

• White Silver
• Moss Green
• Coral Pink

The color options are subtle and sophisticated, avoiding the flashy gradients popular with many competitors. I appreciate Sony’s restraint here—this is a phone that looks professional in any setting.

Water and Dust Resistance

The IP68 rating means this phone can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. I’ve used it in heavy rain and even accidentally dropped it in a sink full of water with no issues. This level of protection provides significant peace of mind for everyday use.

Display: Small Screen, Big Experience

The 5-inch Full HD+ (1080 x 2160) display with an 18:9 aspect ratio might seem modest compared to today’s 6.7+ inch monsters, but it offers remarkable quality in a more manageable size.

Resolution and Pixel Density

With 483 pixels per inch, text appears crisp and images show fine detail. Even when watching videos or viewing photos, I never felt like I was missing out on quality. In fact, the high pixel density makes everything look exceptionally sharp—a benefit of packing those pixels into a smaller screen area.

HDR Support

One of this display’s standout features is its HDR support. When streaming HDR content from Netflix or YouTube, you’ll notice improved contrast and more dynamic range. Dark scenes in movies show more detail, and bright areas don’t blow out as they might on standard displays.

Color Accuracy and Brightness

Sony’s expertise in display technology shines through with excellent color accuracy. The display offers two color modes: Standard (more saturated) and Professional (more accurate). I preferred the Professional mode for its more natural look, but both are pleasing.

Outdoor visibility is good, though not class-leading. In direct sunlight, I sometimes found myself wishing for a bit more brightness, but it’s manageable for quick interactions like checking messages or taking photos.

Blue Light Reduction

The built-in blue light filter (Sony calls it “Night Light”) works well for evening use, gradually warming the display to reduce eye strain. I appreciated being able to schedule this feature to activate automatically at sunset.

Performance: Small Phone, Big Power

For a compact phone, the XZ2 Compact packs a serious punch. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor and 4GB of RAM, it handles everything from everyday tasks to demanding games with confidence.

Benchmark Results

While benchmarks don’t tell the whole story, they provide a useful reference point:

• AnTuTu score: Approximately 285,000
• GeekBench 5: Single-core around 500, multi-core around 2,000

These numbers put it in the upper-mid range by today’s standards, but still more than capable of handling anything you throw at it.

Real-World Performance

In everyday use, the phone feels consistently smooth and responsive. Apps open quickly, switching between them is seamless, and even with multiple applications running in the background, I rarely experienced any slowdown.

Sony’s software optimization deserves credit here—despite not having as much RAM as some competitors, the system manages memory efficiently to maintain a fluid experience.

Gaming Performance

I tested several demanding games including PUBG Mobile, Asphalt 9, and Call of Duty Mobile. All ran smoothly at medium to high settings, with only occasional frame drops during the most intense moments.

The compact screen actually makes gaming more comfortable for extended sessions, as your hands don’t need to stretch to reach controls on opposite sides of the display.

Thermal Management

Sony implemented a thermal paste and copper heat pipe system in the XZ2 Compact, and it shows. Even during extended gaming sessions or when recording 4K video, the phone gets warm but never uncomfortably hot. This effective thermal management also means less performance throttling during demanding tasks.

Software: The Sony Experience

My unit came with Android 8.0 Oreo out of the box but has since been updated to Android 10. Sony’s approach to Android is relatively light-handed, offering a near-stock experience with some thoughtful additions.

Interface and Customization

Sony’s UI is clean and uncluttered, with minimal visual departures from stock Android. The app drawer, notification shade, and settings menu will feel familiar to anyone who’s used Android before.

Customization options include:

• Various theme options
• Different navigation styles (traditional buttons or gestures)
• Side Sense (a feature that detects taps on the edge of the screen)
• Ambient display options

Preinstalled Apps

Sony does include some of its own applications:

• Sony Music
• Album (photo gallery)
• Video
• PlayStation app

Most of these are actually useful and well-designed. Unlike some manufacturers, Sony doesn’t overwhelm you with duplicate apps or unnecessary bloatware.

Software Updates

Sony’s track record with updates has been decent but not exceptional. The XZ2 Compact launched with Android 8.0 and received updates to Android 9 and Android 10. Security patches have been reasonably timely, though not as fast as Google’s Pixel devices or some other manufacturers.

It’s worth noting that the phone is unlikely to receive further major Android version updates at this point, though it continues to get occasional security patches.

Unique Software Features

Some Sony-specific features I’ve found genuinely useful include:

• Smart Stamina: Intelligently manages battery life based on your usage patterns
• Side Sense: Tap the edge of the display to bring up a customizable shortcut menu
• Dynamic Vibration: Syncs vibration to audio for movies and games (surprisingly immersive)
• PlayStation Integration: Remote Play feature for PS4/PS5 owners

Camera: Pocket Photographer’s Delight

Sony makes camera sensors for many other smartphone manufacturers, so expectations are naturally high for their own devices. The XZ2 Compact features a single 19-megapixel Motion Eye camera with f/2.0 aperture.

Main Camera Performance

In good lighting, the camera captures images with excellent detail and natural colors. Sony’s processing tends toward accuracy rather than the oversaturated look some competitors prefer. Dynamic range is impressive, handling high-contrast scenes well.

Low-light performance is good but not exceptional. The f/2.0 aperture isn’t as wide as some competitors, but Sony’s processing does a respectable job of balancing noise reduction with detail preservation. Night shots are usable but not as striking as what you’d get from Google’s Night Sight or Apple’s Night mode.

Video Capabilities

The XZ2 Compact can record 4K HDR video (one of the first phones to offer this feature), as well as super slow-motion at 960fps (in short bursts at 720p). The electronic stabilization works well for casual videos, though it’s not quite as effective as OIS would be.

A standout feature is the 3D Creator app, which lets you scan objects or faces to create 3D models. It’s more of a fun novelty than a practical tool, but it demonstrates Sony’s willingness to experiment with unique camera features.

Front Camera

The 5-megapixel front camera is adequate but not outstanding. Selfies in good lighting come out clear and natural, though in low light, quality drops noticeably. The portrait mode works reasonably well for adding background blur to selfies.

Camera App

Sony’s camera app strikes a good balance between simplicity and advanced features. The auto mode is intelligent enough for most situations, but Manual mode gives you control over focus, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance when needed.

Battery Life: Small Phone, Surprising Stamina

The 2870mAh battery might seem small compared to today’s 4000+mAh monsters, but the efficient processor and smaller screen mean the XZ2 Compact delivers surprisingly good battery life.

Daily Usage

With my typical usage pattern (emails, social media, web browsing, occasional gaming, and photography), I consistently get through a full day with 15-20% remaining. On lighter days, I can sometimes stretch to a day and a half.

Screen-on time averages around 4.5-5 hours, which is impressive for a compact device with this battery capacity.

Charging Speed

The included charger supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, which takes the phone from empty to about 50% in 30 minutes, and to full in approximately 90 minutes. Not the fastest charging available today, but certainly adequate.

Battery Saving Features

Sony’s STAMINA mode is one of the better battery saving implementations I’ve used, intelligently limiting background processes and reducing performance only when necessary. The “Ultra STAMINA” mode is available for emergencies, drastically extending battery life by limiting functionality to basic calls and texts.

Wireless Charging

Unlike its predecessor, the XZ2 Compact supports Qi wireless charging. The charging speed is modest compared to wired charging, but the convenience of dropping it on a charging pad at my desk or bedside table is welcome.

Audio Experience: Mixed Feelings

Audio is an area where the XZ2 Compact presents both strengths and compromises.

Speaker Quality

The front-facing stereo speakers deliver impressively loud and clear audio for a phone of this size. They lack the bass response of larger phones but provide good clarity for voice calls, podcasts, and even casual music listening.

Sony’s Dynamic Vibration System adds a haptic element to audio playback, vibrating in sync with the bass in music or sound effects in games and movies. It’s a unique feature that adds an extra dimension to the audio experience, though it does consume more battery.

The Headphone Jack Situation

The most controversial aspect of this phone for many users will be the lack of a 3.5mm headphone jack. Sony does include a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box, but it’s still an inconvenience if you frequently use wired headphones.

Bluetooth Audio

On the plus side, the XZ2 Compact includes support for high-quality wireless audio codecs including LDAC (Sony’s own high-resolution codec) and aptX HD. When paired with compatible headphones, the audio quality is excellent, with clear separation and detail.

Audio Enhancements

Sony’s audio expertise is evident in the software features:

• DSEE HX: Upscales compressed audio to near high-resolution quality
• ClearAudio+: Automatically adjusts sound settings for improved clarity
• Custom equalizer: Allows fine-tuning of audio to your preferences

Connectivity and Network Performance

The XZ2 Compact supports all the connectivity options you’d expect from a flagship device:

Network Performance

With support for LTE Cat 18 (theoretical maximum speeds of 1.2Gbps), the phone offers excellent cellular performance where network coverage permits. In my testing across various locations, call quality was consistently clear, and data speeds were comparable to other high-end devices on the same network.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

The phone supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (dual-band) and Bluetooth 5.0. Wi-Fi performance is solid, maintaining strong connections even at moderate distances from the router.

Bluetooth connectivity has been reliable in my experience, with quick pairing and stable connections to various accessories including headphones, speakers, and car audio systems.

NFC and Other Connectivity

NFC support enables Google Pay for contactless payments, which I’ve found works flawlessly at compatible terminals. The USB-C port supports USB 3.1 speeds for fast file transfers and DisplayPort functionality, allowing you to connect the phone to an external monitor.

Storage and Memory: Room to Breathe

The XZ2 Compact comes with 64GB of internal storage, which is adequate for most users’ needs. After accounting for the operating system, you’re left with around 50GB of usable space out of the box.

What sets this phone apart from many competitors is the inclusion of a microSD card slot, allowing storage expansion up to an additional 512GB. This feature has become increasingly rare in high-end smartphones, so it’s nice to see Sony maintaining it.

The 4GB of RAM might seem modest by today’s standards, but Sony’s memory management is efficient enough that I rarely noticed any issues with apps reloading or multitasking limitations.

Special Features: The Sony Difference

A few features help the XZ2 Compact stand out from the crowd:

Dedicated Camera Button

The physical camera shutter button is a rarity these days but makes a meaningful difference in the photography experience. A half-press focuses while a full press takes the shot, just like a dedicated camera. It also allows you to launch the camera app directly from sleep by holding the button.

Side Sense

This feature lets you double-tap the side of the phone to bring up a customizable menu of your most-used apps, predicted based on your usage patterns. It’s similar to Edge Screen features on Samsung devices but implemented in Sony’s own way.

Dynamic Vibration System

As mentioned earlier, this system analyzes audio output and vibrates the phone in response to bass frequencies, adding a tactile dimension to media consumption. It’s particularly effective when watching action movies or playing immersive games.

PlayStation Integration

For PlayStation owners, the XZ2 Compact offers Remote Play functionality, allowing you to stream games from your PS4 or PS5 to your phone. Paired with a controller mount, this turns your phone into a portable gaming station for your console games.

Pros and Cons: The Complete Picture

After months of use, here’s my balanced assessment of the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact:

What I Love About the XZ2 Compact

✅ True one-handed usability in a market dominated by giant phones
✅ Flagship performance that handles everything I throw at it
✅ Excellent camera with natural color reproduction
✅ Water resistance provides peace of mind
✅ Front-facing stereo speakers deliver impressive sound
✅ Expandable storage via microSD
✅ Dedicated camera button enhances photography experience
✅ Clean software with minimal bloatware
✅ Solid battery life despite compact dimensions

Where There’s Room for Improvement

❌ No headphone jack (though adapter is included)
❌ Relatively thick compared to other modern smartphones
❌ Single camera when many competitors offer multiple lenses
❌ Plastic back might disappoint premium phone seekers
❌ Display brightness could be better for outdoor use
❌ Limited future software updates
❌ Front camera is merely adequate

Who Should Buy the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact in 2025?

Perfect for:

• Small phone enthusiasts tired of oversized devices
• One-handed operation prioritizers
• Performance seekers who don’t want to compromise on speed
• Photography enthusiasts who appreciate natural colors and manual controls
• PlayStation gamers who would use Remote Play functionality
• Battery life conscious users who need all-day reliability

Consider alternatives if:

• You prioritize multi-camera versatility (ultrawide, telephoto, etc.)
• You consume a lot of media on your phone (larger screens have advantages)
• You need the absolute latest software updates
• The 3.5mm headphone jack is non-negotiable for you
• You want the thinnest possible device

The Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Where to Buy and Current Pricing

As of 2025, the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact is primarily available through third-party sellers and the used market. Current pricing varies, but you can typically find the device for between $150-$250 depending on condition and seller.

Check the current price on Amazon for the most up-to-date availability and pricing.

Essential Accessories

To get the most out of your XZ2 Compact, I recommend these accessories:

1. A quality case – The Spigen Rugged Armor offers good protection without adding excessive bulk: View on Amazon
2. Screen protector – The OMOTON Tempered Glass Screen Protector provides excellent protection: View on Amazon
3. Wireless charger – The Anker PowerWave Pad works well with this phone: View on Amazon
4. Bluetooth earbuds – Given the lack of headphone jack, these are essential. Sony’s WF-1000XM4 earbuds pair perfectly: View on Amazon
5. USB-C to 3.5mm adapter (spare) – Always good to have an extra: View on Amazon

Alternatives to Consider

If you like the concept of the XZ2 Compact but want to explore alternatives, consider:

1. iPhone SE (2022) – Similar compact size with Apple’s ecosystem and more recent processor
2. Google Pixel 6a – Slightly larger but offers Google’s exceptional camera processing and clean Android experience
3. Samsung Galaxy S22 – A bit larger but represents one of the smaller flagship Android options in recent years
4. Sony Xperia 5 III – Sony’s more recent compact flagship with upgraded specifications (though still larger than XZ2 Compact)
5. ASUS Zenfone 9 – One of the few recent Android flagships in a relatively compact form factor

My Experience: Life with the XZ2 Compact

I’ve been using the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact as my primary device for the past three months, and it’s been a refreshing change from the oversized phones that have dominated my pocket in recent years.

Daily Usability

What I appreciate most in daily use is the effortless one-handed operation. I can reach every corner of the screen without contorting my hand or using reachability features. This makes quick interactions while walking, commuting, or multitasking significantly more convenient.

The phone slips easily into pockets without creating an unsightly bulge or feeling cumbersome. Despite its somewhat thick profile, the overall footprint is so small that it never feels unwieldy.

Performance in Real Scenarios

For my typical workday, which involves email management, Slack conversations, document editing, and web browsing, the XZ2 Compact performs flawlessly. Apps remain in memory, switching between tasks is fluid, and I never feel like I’m waiting on the phone.

Even for more demanding tasks like photo editing in Lightroom mobile or playing graphics-intensive games during a commute, the phone handles everything without noticeable hesitation.

Photography Experience

As someone who takes a lot of photos, the camera has been a pleasant surprise. While it doesn’t have the multi-lens versatility of newer flagships, the single 19MP sensor captures detailed, natural-looking images that often require minimal editing.

The dedicated camera button makes capturing spontaneous moments much easier, especially in situations where fumbling with on-screen controls might mean missing the shot.

Battery Longevity

After three months of use, I haven’t noticed any significant degradation in battery capacity. The phone still easily lasts a full day of moderate to heavy use, which speaks to Sony’s battery optimization and management.

The STAMINA mode has saved me more than once when I’ve forgotten to charge overnight, extending the remaining battery enough to get through until I can find a charger.

Expert Opinions and External Reviews

While forming my own opinion, I also consulted what other experts had to say about the XZ2 Compact:

The Verge praised its “powerful performance in a truly small form factor” while noting that “the design is thicker than we’d prefer.”

Android Authority highlighted that “the camera produces naturally beautiful images rather than the over-processed look of some competitors.”

GSMArena commended its “exceptional performance and battery life for its size” but criticized the “lack of headphone jack in a phone with plenty of thickness to accommodate one.”

TechRadar noted that “the XZ2 Compact offers a rare combination of high-end specs in a small form factor that’s becoming increasingly hard to find.”

Digital Trends stated that “if you want a compact Android phone with flagship specs, the XZ2 Compact is your only real option – and thankfully, it’s a good one.”

Common Questions Answered

Does the Xperia XZ2 Compact support 5G?

No, the XZ2 Compact was released before 5G became widely available and only supports up to 4G LTE networks.

How does the battery compare to newer phones?

While the 2870mAh capacity is smaller than most current phones, the efficient processor and smaller screen mean battery life is still competitive, typically lasting a full day of moderate use.

Can I use this phone for underwater photography?

The IP68 rating means it can survive submersion, but Sony recommends against using the touchscreen underwater. The dedicated camera button does make it possible to take underwater photos, but do so at your own risk.

Will the XZ2 Compact receive Android 12 or later?

No, Sony has ended major Android version updates for this device. Android 10 is the final major OS version, though security patches may continue for some time.

How does gaming performance hold up in 2025?

Surprisingly well. While the most demanding titles might require medium settings, popular games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty Mobile, and Genshin Impact remain playable with acceptable frame rates.

Is the camera still competitive?

For daytime photography, yes. The 19MP sensor captures detailed images with excellent color accuracy. However, it lacks the night mode capabilities and lens versatility (ultrawide, telephoto) of newer phones.

The Verdict: My Final Rating

After thoroughly testing the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact across all major categories, here’s my detailed rating breakdown out of 10:

• Design and Build Quality: 8/10
• Display: 7.5/10
• Performance: 8/10
• Software: 7.5/10
• Camera: 7.5/10
• Battery Life: 8.5/10
• Audio: 7/10
• Value for Money: 9/10

Overall Score: 8.5/10

The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact remains a unique proposition in today’s smartphone market—a genuine compact flagship with few compromises. While it’s no longer the newest device available, its combination of pocket-friendly size, powerful performance, and capable camera make it a compelling option for those who prioritize one-handed usability.

In a world where phones keep growing larger with each generation, this device serves as a reminder that bigger isn’t always better for everyone. If you’re tired of struggling to use your phone with one hand or having a massive rectangle bulging from your pocket, the XZ2 Compact offers a refreshing alternative that doesn’t sacrifice the features you care about.

Conclusion: Is Compact the Future or the Past?

As we look toward the future of smartphones, I can’t help but wonder if the industry will ever return to offering true compact flagships like the XZ2 Compact. While the trend continues toward larger displays, there remains a dedicated group of users who prefer smaller devices.

The XZ2 Compact stands as one of the last true compact flagships that didn’t compromise on performance. For those who value this form factor, it remains a viable option even in 2025, especially when purchased at its current price point.

If you’ve been frustrated by the growing size of smartphones and yearn for something more pocket-friendly without sacrificing performance, the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s a reminder that good things sometimes do come in small packages.

Check the current price on Amazon to see if this pocket powerhouse is the right phone for you!

Have you used the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact or other compact smartphones? What features matter most to you in a phone? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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