Sony Xperia 1 VI vs Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
The Sony Xperia 1 VI is the flagship option, and it brings advanced features like an 85-170mm continuous optical zoom lens. Meanwhile, the Motorola Moto G Play (2024) is a budget powerhouse, offering decent performance with its Snapdragon 680 processor and a 720p display that’s serviceable for casual browsing. Key specs: Refresh: 120 Hz vs 90 Hz and Weight: 6.77 oz vs 6.53 oz.
Why compare these? The Sony Xperia 1 VI (premium flagship) and Motorola Moto G Play (2024) (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.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Sony Xperia | Motorola Moto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.3★ (41 reviews) | ✓4.5★ (848 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens | Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are excellent for this price tier |
| Main Drawback | NOT officially sold in the US (No warranty, missing key US 5G bands like Band 71) | Resolution is limited to 720p (HD+) while competitors offer 1080p |
| 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
Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates (until Jan 2027)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm)
Adreno 610
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: Sony Xperia 1 VI vs Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
Sony Xperia 1 VI
Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
| Criterion | Sony Xperia 1 VI | Motorola Moto G Play (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.3(41)Amazon | ★4.5(848)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 3 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates | 1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates (until Jan 2027) |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm) |
Graphics | Adreno 750 | Adreno 610 |
RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X | 4GB (Plus up to 2GB Virtual RAM Boost) |
Storage | 256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1.5TB) | 64GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB) |
Display Size | 6.5" | 6.5" |
Screen Type | LTPO OLED, 1-120Hz Adaptive, Powered by BRAVIA | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 500 nits (Peak) |
Resolution | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) — *Note: Downgraded from 4K on previous models* | 1600 x 720 (HD+) |
Refresh Rate | 1Hz - 120Hz (Adaptive) | 90Hz (Auto/60Hz/90Hz) |
Peak Brightness | 1,300 nits (Typical High Brightness) / ~1,500 nits (Peak) | 500 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 48MP (Effective) / 52MP (Total), f/1.9, 24mm, 1/1.35" Exmor T, OIS | 50MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Quad Pixel Technology |
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 8x |
Video Recording | 4K HDR @ 120fps (All lenses) | 1080p @ 30fps |
Front Camera | 12MP, f/2.0, 1/2.9" Exmor RS, 4K @ 60fps | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm |
Battery | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh (Typical) |
Wired Charging | 30W USB-PD (50% in 30 min) — *Charger not included* | 15W TurboPower (Charger NOT included in box) |
Wireless Charging | 15W Qi Wireless Charging + Reverse Wireless Charging | No (Not supported) |
Connectivity | 5G (Global Bands - Limited US Carrier Support), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | 4G LTE (No 5G), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1, GPS |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), Video Out (DisplayPort) | USB Type-C 2.0 |
Durability | IP65/IP68 (Water/Dust Resistant); Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (Front) / Victus (Back) | IP52 (Water-repellent design); Corning Gorilla Glass 3 (Front) |
Dimensions | 6.38 x 2.91 x 0.32 in (162 x 74 x 8.2 mm) | 6.45 x 2.95 x 0.33 in (163.8 x 75.0 x 8.3 mm) |
Weight | 6.77 oz (192 g) | 6.53 oz (185 g) |
Biometrics | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint reader, Face Unlock |
Extras | 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Full-stage stereo speakers, Dedicated Shutter Button | Stereo speakers (Dolby Atmos), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, microSD slot |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
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)
Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates (until Jan 2027)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm)
Adreno 610
4GB (Plus up to 2GB Virtual RAM Boost)
64GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB)
Pros
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are excellent for this price tier
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 provides reliable basic performance (better than Helio G37)
Cons
- Resolution is limited to 720p (HD+) while competitors offer 1080p
- No 5G connectivity (4G LTE only)
Which one is better?
The Sony Xperia 1 VI is the better buy for most people - its 2340 x 1080 display crushes the Motorola Moto G Play (2024)'s 1600 x 720.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Sony Xperia 1 VI if: you need exceptional camera capabilities, want a vibrant display for gaming, or shoot a lot of video. (120 Hz refresh, 6.77 oz weight)
Choose the Motorola Moto G Play (2024) if: you want a reliable phone for basic tasks, need a budget-friendly option, or prefer a lightweight device for daily use. (90 Hz refresh, 6.53 oz weight)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.3★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Motorola Moto
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 848 reviews vs 41
→ Choose Motorola Moto
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 Motorola Moto
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: The Motorola Moto G Play (2024) 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 Motorola Moto G Play (2024)?
Sony Xperia 1 VI is the better choice if you prioritize exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens. Motorola Moto G Play (2024) wins if you value stereo speakers with dolby atmos are excellent for this price tier. 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 Motorola Moto G Play (2024)?
Key differences: Sony Xperia 1 VI offers exclusive 85-170mm true continuous optical zoom lens, while Motorola Moto G Play (2024) stands out with stereo speakers with dolby atmos are excellent for this price tier. Consider that Sony Xperia 1 VI not officially sold in the us (no warranty, missing key us 5g bands like band 71). Meanwhile, Motorola Moto G Play (2024) resolution is limited to 720p (hd+) while competitors offer 1080p. 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.