Sony Xperia 1 VI vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
You might think the Sony Xperia 1 VI would overshadow the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen), but the real distinction lies in user experience. In contrast, the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) offers a budget-friendly entry into the iPhone world, perfect for those who want a compact device without breaking the bank. The Xperia also features a stunning 6.5-inch display, compared to the SE's small 4.7-inch screen, making it a no-brainer for anyone who enjoys media or gaming on their phone. Key specs: Display: 6.5" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Why compare these? The Sony Xperia 1 VI (premium flagship) and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (budget-friendly) 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 | Sony Xperia | Apple iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.3★ (41 reviews) | ✓4.5★ (225 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem |
| Main Drawback | NOT officially sold in the US (No warranty, missing key US 5G bands like Band 71) | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels |
| Market Position | ✓Flagship | Budget |
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Android
3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650)
Adreno 750
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
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.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Sony Xperia 1 VI vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
| Criterion | Sony Xperia 1 VI | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.3(41)Amazon | ★4.5(225)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | iOS |
Software Support | 3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) |
Graphics | Adreno 750 | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) |
RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X | 4GB |
Storage | 256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1.5TB) | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe |
Display Size | 6.5" | 4.7" |
Screen Type | LTPO OLED, 1-120Hz Adaptive, Powered by BRAVIA | Retina HD LCD (IPS) |
Resolution | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) — *Note: Downgraded from 4K on previous models* | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) |
Refresh Rate | 1Hz - 120Hz (Adaptive) | 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 1,300 nits (Typical High Brightness) / ~1,500 nits (Peak) | 625 nits (Typical) |
Main Camera | 48MP (Effective) / 52MP (Total), f/1.9, 24mm, 1/1.35" Exmor T, OIS | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 12MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 123-degree FOV, AF (Macro support) | No (Not supported) |
Telephoto Camera | 12MP Continuous Optical Zoom, f/2.3-3.5, 85mm-170mm, OIS, Tele-macro | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | 3.5x to 7.1x Continuous Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 21x (AI Super Resolution) | Up to 5x |
Video Recording | 4K HDR @ 120fps (All lenses) | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps |
Front Camera | 12MP, f/2.0, 1/2.9" Exmor RS, 4K @ 60fps | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 5,000mAh | 2,018mAh (Approximate) |
Wired Charging | 30W USB-PD (50% in 30 min) — *Charger not included* | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning |
Wireless Charging | 15W Qi Wireless Charging + Reverse Wireless Charging | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) |
Connectivity | 5G (Global Bands - Limited US Carrier Support), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), Video Out (DisplayPort) | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) |
Durability | IP65/IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (Front) / Victus (Back) | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass |
Dimensions | 6.38 x 2.91 x 0.32 in (162 x 74 x 8.2 mm) | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) |
Weight | 6.77 oz (192 g) | 5.09 oz (144 g) |
Biometrics | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) |
Extras | 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Full-stage stereo speakers, Dedicated Shutter Button | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support |
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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)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
4GB
64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Pros
- Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
- Compact and lightweight design is easy to use with one hand
Cons
- Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels
- Small 4.7-inch LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of OLED competitors
Which one is better?
Grab the iPhone SE if you need a lightweight and compact device - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony Xperia 1 VI if: you need 2+ days of battery life, you love photography with 21x zoom, or you want a flagship experience with 12GB of RAM.
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you want a budget-friendly iPhone, you prefer a compact design for one-handed use, or you need a device with a classic Home button. (4.7" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.3★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 225 reviews vs 41
→ Choose Apple iPhone
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 Apple iPhone
Conclusion
Sony Xperia 1 VI and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) leads with a 4.5★ rating versus 4.3★. That said, Sony Xperia 1 VI could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Sony Xperia 1 VI or Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Sony Xperia 1 VI is the better choice if you prioritize exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens. Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) wins if you value most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Both are rated highly (4.3★ vs 4.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Sony Xperia 1 VI and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Key differences: Sony Xperia 1 VI offers exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens, while Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) stands out with most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Consider that Sony Xperia 1 VI not officially sold in the us (no warranty, missing key us 5g bands like band 71). Meanwhile, Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. 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.
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