XZ2 Premium Review

How does the performance stack up?

The Xperia XZ2 Premium is powered by the Snapdragon 845 chipset, achieving a Geekbench single-core score of 552 and a multi-core score of 1981. This performance level ensures smooth operation for most apps and games. However, benchmarks reveal a noticeable lag behind newer models using Snapdragon 8-series processors.

In real-world usage, the phone performs well for everyday tasks but can struggle with high-demand gaming scenarios, where frame rates may drop during intense graphical moments.

Is the camera a highlight?

Equipped with a dual 19MP camera setup, the Xperia XZ2 Premium excels in capturing high-quality images, especially in good lighting conditions. The ability to shoot 4K video with HDR also stands out among competitors. Users have reported satisfaction with photo quality, though low-light performance can sometimes disappoint.

Compared to contemporaries like the Google Pixel series, the Xperia XZ2 Premium may not always deliver the same level of consistency in dynamic range and image processing.

What about the display experience?

The device boasts a 5.8-inch 4K HDR display, offering remarkable clarity and color depth for multimedia consumption. With a resolution of 3840 × 2160 pixels, it outshines most smartphones in pixel density, making it ideal for media enthusiasts.

However, the bulkiness of the phone can detract from the user experience, making one-handed use challenging. Users seeking a sleek design may find alternative devices more comfortable.

How does battery life perform?

Battery life on the Xperia XZ2 Premium is average at best, often struggling to last a full day under moderate to heavy usage. While the device is equipped with a reasonably sized battery, it is hampered by the high-resolution display and performance demands.

Users have expressed concerns regarding the lack of wireless charging and fast charging capabilities, which can be inconvenient for today's fast-paced lifestyles.

Is the software experience modern?

The Xperia XZ2 Premium runs on Android 8.0 out of the box, offering a clean, user-friendly interface. However, the software is relatively outdated compared to newer devices running Android 12 or higher, raising concerns regarding future updates and support.

Many users appreciate the absence of bloatware; however, some essential features found in later versions of Android are missing, which can lower the overall usability experience.

Pros & Cons

• ✅ Stunning 4K HDR display with extremely high pixel density (3840 × 2160).
• ✅ Powerful dual 19MP camera system, capable of 4K HDR video recording.
• ✅ Solid performance with Snapdragon 845 and 6GB RAM for smooth everyday multitasking.
• ✅ Clean Android interface with minimal bloatware, enhancing user experience.

• ❌ Average battery life, often requiring a charge before day’s end.
• ❌ Bulkier design may not suit users looking for a more compact device.
• ❌ Outdated software version (Android 8.0) limits feature set compared to newer phones.
• ❌ Low-light camera performance does not match competitors like Google Pixel.

How It Compares to the Competition

• Google Pixel 2 XL — Superior camera performance and software experience, though lacks a 4K display.
• Samsung Galaxy S9+ — Excellent all-around performance with better battery life and software updates.
• OnePlus 6 — Offers flagship specifications at a competitive price, with modern software.

Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It

Buy it if: The Xperia XZ2 Premium is ideal for users who prioritize display quality and photography features, especially those who consume media on their phones regularly. It suits tech enthusiasts looking for a robust flagship experience without the latest software demands.

Skip it if: Users who prefer a compact design or who heavily rely on battery life should consider alternatives. Also, those needing the latest Android features or timely updates would be better suited with newer models.