Nothing Phone (2) vs Sony Xperia 1 VI
You might think it's an easy win for Nothing, but the Sony Xperia 1 VI's unique features make it a contender worth considering. If you want an impressive camera experience, the Xperia's optical zoom is a game-changer, offering 3.5x-7.1x zoom compared to Nothing's lack of optical capabilities. Key specs: Display: 6.7" vs 6.5" and Battery: 4700 mAh vs 5000 mAh.
Why compare these? The Nothing Phone (2) (high-end) and Sony Xperia 1 VI (premium flagship) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Nothing Phone | Sony Xperia |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.6★ (397 reviews) | 4.3★ (41 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Iconic transparent design with functional Glyph Interface lighting | Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens |
| Main Drawback | IP54 rating is lower than IP68 found in competitors (Pixel 7/8, Galaxy S23 FE) | NOT officially sold in the US (No warranty, missing key US 5G bands like Band 71) |
| Market Position | Premium | ✓Flagship |
Nothing Phone (2)
Android
3 years of Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates (bimonthly)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm)
Adreno 730
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Android
3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650)
Adreno 750
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Nothing Phone (2) vs Sony Xperia 1 VI
Nothing Phone (2)
Sony Xperia 1 VI
| Criterion | Nothing Phone (2) | Sony Xperia 1 VI |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(397)Amazon | ★4.3(41)Amazon |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 3 years of Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates (bimonthly) | 3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) |
Graphics | Adreno 730 | Adreno 750 |
RAM | 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5 | 12GB LPDDR5X |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB UFS 3.1 | 256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1.5TB) |
Display Size | 6.7" | 6.5" |
Screen Type | LTPO OLED, 1-120Hz Adaptive, 1,600 nits (Peak Pixel Brightness) | LTPO OLED, 1-120Hz Adaptive, Powered by BRAVIA |
Resolution | 2412 x 1080 (FHD+) at 394 ppi | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) — *Note: Downgraded from 4K on previous models* |
Refresh Rate | 1Hz - 120Hz (LTPO Adaptive) | 1Hz - 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 1,600 nits (HDR Peak); 1,000 nits (Outdoor Full Screen) | 1,300 nits (Typical High Brightness) / ~1,500 nits (Peak) |
Main Camera | 50MP Sony IMX890, f/1.88, OIS, EIS, 24mm equivalent | 48MP (Effective) / 52MP (Total), f/1.9, 24mm, 1/1.35" Exmor T, OIS |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 50MP Samsung JN1, f/2.2, 114-degree FOV, 4cm Macro Mode | 12MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 123-degree FOV, AF (Macro support) |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | 12MP Continuous Optical Zoom, f/2.3-3.5, 85mm-170mm, OIS, Tele-macro |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | 3.5x to 7.1x Continuous Optical Zoom |
Digital Zoom | Up to 10x | Up to 21x (AI Super Resolution) |
Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps (Main & Ultrawide); Live HDR at 4K/30fps | 4K HDR @ 120fps (All lenses) |
Front Camera | 32MP Sony IMX615, f/2.45, 1080p @ 60fps | 12MP, f/2.0, 1/2.9" Exmor RS, 4K @ 60fps |
Battery | 4,700mAh | 5,000mAh |
Wired Charging | 45W PPS (Full charge in 55 mins) | 30W USB-PD (50% in 30 min) — *Charger not included* |
Wireless Charging | 15W Qi Dual-coil (Full charge in 130 mins); 5W Reverse Wireless | 15W Qi Wireless Charging + Reverse Wireless Charging |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC | 5G (Global Bands - Limited US Carrier Support), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), Video Out (DisplayPort) |
Durability | IP54 (Splash, Water, and Dust Resistant); Corning Gorilla Glass 5 (Front & Back) | IP65/IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (Front) / Victus (Back) |
Dimensions | 6.38 x 3.01 x 0.34 in (162.1 x 76.4 x 8.6 mm) | 6.38 x 2.91 x 0.32 in (162 x 74 x 8.2 mm) |
Weight | 7.09 oz (201.2 g) | 6.77 oz (192 g) |
Biometrics | Optical under-display fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor |
Extras | Glyph Interface (33 addressable LED zones), Glyph Composer, Essential Notifications, Stereo Speakers | 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Full-stage stereo speakers, Dedicated Shutter Button |
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Nothing Phone (2)
Android
3 years of Android OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates (bimonthly)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm)
Adreno 730
8GB / 12GB LPDDR5
128GB / 256GB / 512GB UFS 3.1
Pros
- Iconic transparent design with functional Glyph Interface lighting
- Excellent performance stability with Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
Cons
- IP54 rating is lower than IP68 found in competitors (Pixel 7/8, Galaxy S23 FE)
- Camera system lacks a dedicated telephoto/optical zoom lens
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Android
3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650)
Adreno 750
12GB LPDDR5X
256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1.5TB)
Pros
- Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens
- Rare flagship features: 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD slot
Cons
- NOT officially sold in the US (No warranty, missing key US 5G bands like Band 71)
- Display resolution downgraded to 1080p (loss of unique 4K identity)
Which one is better?
Grab the Nothing Phone (2) if you want a unique design and excellent software experience - it weighs 7.09oz compared to the Xperia's 6.77oz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Nothing Phone (2) if: you love unique designs with a transparent back, want a bloatware-free Android experience, or appreciate a clean interface. (6.7" display, 4700 mAh battery)
Choose the Sony Xperia 1 VI if: you shoot a lot of photos and videos with its impressive optical zoom, need a longer-lasting battery for use, or value expandable storage with a microSD slot. (6.5" display, 5000 mAh battery)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.3★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Nothing Phone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 397 reviews vs 41
→ Choose Nothing Phone
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Sony Xperia
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Nothing Phone
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Nothing Phone (2) edges ahead with a 4.6★ rating compared to 4.3★. However, Sony Xperia 1 VI remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Nothing Phone (2) or Sony Xperia 1 VI?
Nothing Phone (2) is the better choice if you prioritize iconic transparent design with functional glyph interface lighting. Sony Xperia 1 VI wins if you value exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.3★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Nothing Phone (2) and Sony Xperia 1 VI?
Key differences: Nothing Phone (2) offers iconic transparent design with functional glyph interface lighting, while Sony Xperia 1 VI stands out with exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens. Consider that Nothing Phone (2) ip54 rating is lower than ip68 found in competitors (pixel 7/8, galaxy s23 fe). Meanwhile, Sony Xperia 1 VI not officially sold in the us (no warranty, missing key us 5g bands like band 71). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.