Table of Contents
amazon Sony Xperia XA Ultra reviews
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic and Materials
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra boasts a sleek and minimalist design, consistent with Sony’s design language of the time. The device features a slim, rectangular form factor with clean lines and rounded edges, giving it a modern and sophisticated look. The front and back of the device are covered in glass, while the frame is made of plastic, which helps keep the device lightweight and slim.
One of the standout features of the XA Ultra’s design is its large 6.0-inch display, which is housed in a slim body. The device measures 164.2 x 79.4 x 8.4 mm and weighs 202 grams, making it relatively large and heavy compared to other smartphones. However, the slim profile and smooth, rounded edges make it comfortable to hold despite its size.
The Xperia XA Ultra is available in several colors, including White, Graphite Black, and Lime Gold. The reflective glass surfaces and minimalist design choices give the device a premium feel, though the plastic frame might not exude the same level of luxury as metal or aluminum.
Ergonomics and Handling
Given its large size, the XA Ultra may be challenging for some users to handle comfortably, particularly for one-handed use. The slim design and rounded edges help mitigate this issue, but the sheer size of the device means that it may not be the most practical choice for users who prefer compact smartphones.
The device features a side-mounted power button with an integrated fingerprint sensor, which is positioned in an easily accessible location. The volume rockers and camera shutter button are located above the power button, contributing to the overall ergonomic design. The Xperia XA Ultra also includes a dedicated camera button, which is a useful feature for quick access to the camera app.
Display
Size and Quality
The Xperia XA Ultra features a 6.0-inch Full HD IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. While this resolution might seem modest compared to the Quad HD or 4K displays found in some flagship devices, it still delivers a sharp and clear viewing experience. The IPS LCD technology provides good color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making it suitable for media consumption and general use.
The display’s size is one of its defining features, offering an expansive viewing area that enhances the experience for watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web. The screen’s brightness and contrast levels are adequate for most environments, though it may struggle in direct sunlight compared to more advanced displays.
Performance and Daily Use
The XA Ultra’s display performance is generally solid, with responsive touch input and decent color reproduction. The Full HD resolution strikes a balance between screen clarity and battery efficiency, ensuring that the device performs well without excessively draining the battery. While the display may not offer the same level of detail as higher-resolution screens, it is well-suited for everyday tasks and media consumption.
Performance
Hardware Specifications
Under the hood, the Sony Xperia XA Ultra is powered by the MediaTek MT6755 Helio P10 chipset, which features an octa-core processor with a clock speed of up to 2.0 GHz. The device is equipped with 3GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, expandable up to 200GB via a microSD card. This hardware configuration provides a decent balance of performance and storage, though it may lag behind more powerful flagship devices.
The Helio P10 chipset is designed to handle a range of tasks, from everyday activities to moderate gaming. While it may not offer the same level of performance as high-end processors from Qualcomm or Samsung, it provides adequate power for most users.
Benchmark Performance
In benchmark tests, the Xperia XA Ultra’s performance is relatively modest. For example, in Geekbench tests, the device scores around 700 in single-core performance and approximately 3,500 in multi-core performance. These scores indicate that the XA Ultra is capable of handling basic tasks and some light multitasking but may struggle with more demanding applications or games.
Gaming performance on the XA Ultra is acceptable for casual games but may not meet the expectations of users seeking a high-end gaming experience. The device can handle titles like “Angry Birds” and “Candy Crush” with ease, but more graphically intensive games like “Asphalt 8” or “PUBG Mobile” may experience some lag or reduced performance.
Camera
Camera Specifications
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra features a 21.5MP rear camera with an Exmor RS sensor and a wide f/2.2 aperture. This camera is designed to deliver high-quality images with good detail and color accuracy. The device also includes an 16MP front-facing camera with an f/2.0 aperture, which is equipped with a wide-angle lens for capturing selfies and group shots.
The rear camera supports features such as phase-detection autofocus (PDAF) and LED flash, while the front camera includes a dedicated LED flash for better low-light selfies. The Xperia XA Ultra also supports full HD video recording at 30 frames per second.
Camera Performance
The rear camera on the Xperia XA Ultra delivers generally good performance, capturing sharp and detailed images in well-lit conditions. The Exmor RS sensor provides good color reproduction and contrast, making it suitable for everyday photography. However, the camera may struggle in low-light conditions, with noticeable noise and reduced detail.
The front-facing camera is a strong point of the XA Ultra, offering high-resolution selfies and good performance in various lighting conditions. The wide-angle lens allows for more flexible selfie compositions, and the dedicated LED flash helps improve low-light performance.
Video recording on the Xperia XA Ultra is competent, with full HD resolution providing clear and detailed footage. The video quality is suitable for casual recording and sharing on social media, though it may not match the video capabilities of more advanced devices.
Battery Life
Battery Specifications
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra is equipped with a 2,700mAh non-removable battery. While this capacity is relatively modest compared to some other devices with larger batteries, it is paired with the device’s Full HD display and efficient hardware to provide reasonable battery life.
Battery Performance
In real-world use, the Xperia XA Ultra generally offers a full day of battery life with moderate usage. This includes activities such as web browsing, social media, and occasional media playback. The device may require recharging by the end of the day with heavier usage, such as extended gaming or video streaming.
The Xperia XA Ultra supports Sony’s Qnovo Adaptive Charging technology, which helps optimize battery health and performance by adjusting the charging rate based on usage patterns. The device also supports standard USB charging, but it lacks fast charging capabilities, meaning that charging times may be longer compared to newer devices with fast-charging support.
Software Experience
User Interface
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box, with Sony’s custom UI layered on top. The user interface is designed to be clean and intuitive, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. The device features a traditional app drawer and customizable home screens, allowing users to organize their apps and widgets according to their preferences.
Sony’s UI includes several custom features, such as the Xperia Lounge app for discovering content and services, as well as the ability to customize the user experience with themes and icon packs. The software experience is generally smooth, though it may not be as feature-rich or as customizable as some other Android skins.
Software Updates
At the time of its release, the Xperia XA Ultra was running a relatively up-to-date version of Android, but it may not receive the latest software updates as quickly as some other devices. Users may need to rely on third-party ROMs or custom firmware to access newer versions of Android if official updates are not provided.
Connectivity and Extras
Connectivity Options
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including 4G LTE support for fast mobile data speeds. The device also includes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n for reliable wireless internet access, Bluetooth 4.1 for connecting to various accessories, and NFC for contactless payments and pairing.
The Xperia XA Ultra features a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, which provides a modern and reversible connector. The device also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to connect wired audio accessories without the need for adapters.
Extras
The Xperia XA Ultra is IP65/68 rated for water and dust resistance, offering protection against immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. This rating adds durability and peace of mind for users who may accidentally expose their device to the elements.
The device includes a fingerprint sensor integrated into the side-mounted power button, providing convenient biometric security for unlocking the device and securing apps and data. The fingerprint sensor is generally responsive and accurate, though its placement on the side of the device may take some getting used to.
Overall User Experience
Performance and Daily Use
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra delivers a generally positive user experience, with a focus on its large display and stylish design. The device’s performance is suitable for everyday tasks and moderate multitasking, though it may not be as powerful as some higher-end smartphones. The Full HD display provides a good balance between clarity and battery efficiency, making it suitable for media consumption and general use.
The camera capabilities of the Xperia XA Ultra are decent, with the rear camera delivering good performance in well-lit conditions and the front camera offering high-quality selfies. The battery life is adequate for typical daily use, although it may require recharging with heavy use. The software experience is generally smooth, with a clean interface and useful custom features, though the device may lag behind in terms of receiving the latest updates.
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Comparison with Competitors
To provide a comprehensive perspective on the Sony Xperia XA Ultra, it’s helpful to compare it with other smartphones available around the same time. Competing devices include the Samsung Galaxy A7 (2016), LG G5, and the HTC 10. This comparison will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the XA Ultra relative to its peers.
Sony Xperia XA Ultra vs. Samsung Galaxy A7 (2016)
The Samsung Galaxy A7 (2016) features a 5.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is similar in resolution to the XA Ultra but smaller in size. The A7 (2016) is powered by the Exynos 7870 chipset with 3GB of RAM, providing comparable performance to the XA Ultra’s Helio P10 processor.
In terms of design, the Galaxy A7 (2016) has a premium metal and glass construction, which contrasts with the XA Ultra’s plastic frame. The A7 (2016) also offers a similar camera setup, with a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, though it lacks the XA Ultra’s higher-resolution front camera.
Battery life on the Galaxy A7 (2016) is comparable to the XA Ultra, with a 3,300mAh battery providing slightly more longevity. Both devices offer similar connectivity options and features, though the Galaxy A7 (2016) benefits from Samsung’s established software and update ecosystem.
Sony Xperia XA Ultra vs. LG G5
The LG G5 features a 5.3-inch Quad HD IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, offering a higher resolution and more vibrant colors compared to the XA Ultra’s Full HD display. The G5 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chipset and 4GB of RAM, providing a significant performance advantage over the XA Ultra’s Helio P10 processor.
The G5’s camera setup includes a 16MP rear camera with a wide-angle lens and an 8MP secondary camera for additional versatility. The front-facing camera is 8MP, slightly lower in resolution compared to the XA Ultra’s 16MP camera. The LG G5 also includes a removable battery, which is a feature not available on the XA Ultra.
In terms of design, the LG G5 features a modular design with removable components, offering a unique and innovative approach. The G5’s metal construction and advanced features provide a premium feel, though the XA Ultra’s large display and slim profile offer a different user experience.
Sony Xperia XA Ultra vs. HTC 10
The HTC 10 features a 5.2-inch Quad HD Super LCD5 display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, offering a sharper and more vibrant display compared to the XA Ultra. The HTC 10 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor and 4GB of RAM, delivering superior performance to the XA Ultra’s Helio P10 chipset.
The HTC 10 includes a 12MP rear camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 5MP front-facing camera, providing competitive camera performance relative to the XA Ultra. The device also features a metal unibody design, which contributes to a premium feel and build quality.
Battery life on the HTC 10 is comparable to the XA Ultra, with a 3,000mAh battery providing similar longevity. The HTC 10’s software experience is refined and features HTC’s Sense UI, which offers customization options and a clean interface.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large Display: The 6.0-inch Full HD display offers an expansive viewing area, making it ideal for media consumption and multitasking.
- High-Resolution Front Camera: The 16MP front-facing camera is excellent for selfies and video calls, providing detailed and clear images.
- Stylish Design: The sleek and minimalist design, coupled with the reflective glass surfaces, gives the XA Ultra a premium appearance.
- Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD card slot allows for easy expansion of storage capacity, accommodating a large number of photos, videos, and apps.
- Water and Dust Resistance: The IP65/68 rating provides protection against water and dust, adding durability to the device.
Cons
- Performance Limitations: The Helio P10 chipset may struggle with demanding applications and high-end gaming, leading to potential performance limitations.
- Modest Battery Capacity: The 2,700mAh battery may require more frequent recharging with heavy use, and it lacks fast-charging capabilities.
- Limited Resolution: The Full HD display, while adequate, is lower in resolution compared to the Quad HD or 4K displays found in some competing devices.
- Plastic Frame: The plastic frame, while lightweight, may not provide the same level of durability and premium feel as metal or aluminum alternatives.
- Software Updates: The device may lag behind in receiving the latest software updates, potentially affecting the user experience and security.
Conclusion
The Sony Xperia XA Ultra offers a compelling option for users seeking a large display and solid performance in a stylish package. With its expansive 6.0-inch screen, high-resolution front camera, and sleek design, the XA Ultra is well-suited for media enthusiasts and users who prioritize a large viewing area.
While the device may face limitations in terms of performance and battery life compared to some newer and more powerful competitors, it remains a capable and attractive choice for users seeking a balance between functionality and affordability. The inclusion of features such as expandable storage, water and dust resistance, and a fingerprint sensor adds to the overall value of the Xperia XA Ultra.
Overall, the Sony Xperia XA Ultra represents a strong entry in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a blend of design, display quality, and functionality that appeals to a wide range of users. Despite its challenges, it provides a well-rounded experience that is worth considering for those in the market for a large-screen smartphone with a touch of Sony’s premium design.