“Sony's Xperia 1 VI isn't perfect - but it's my new favourite flagship phone.”
Publisher score: 5/5
$1399 · Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 · 2y 5m old
Review
Radar

Image credit: GSMArena
Editor's Verdict
For years, Sony has marched to the beat of its own drum with the Xperia line, often appealing to a niche of creators and tinkerers. The Xperia 1 VI is a significant evolution, and frankly, a breath of fresh air. While it still whispers “pro” with its sophisticated camera controls and that jaw-dropping 7.1x optical zoom, Sony has finally made it undeniably accessible. The display is brighter, the battery life is utterly sensational, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ensures every interaction is buttery smooth. This isn't just a phone for those who want to tweak every setting; it's a genuinely fantastic flagship that can finally compete on pure user experience, and at $1399, it’s a serious contender for anyone who values a refined, powerful, and remarkably capable device.
Make no mistake, the Xperia 1 VI is still a premium device that demands a premium price, and yes, some might find its design language a touch understated compared to the flashy competitors. But if you're tired of the same old cookie-cutter flagships and crave something that offers genuine photographic prowess without a steep learning curve, coupled with a display that’s a joy to behold and battery life that will outlast your longest day, then look no further. This is the best Xperia yet, and for the discerning buyer who prioritizes a unique and exceptionally well-executed experience, it’s my new favorite flagship.
Alternatives
Matchups
Most positive review signal
“Sony's Xperia 1 VI isn't perfect - but it's my new favourite flagship phone.”
Stuff · 100
Most cautious review signal
“The Xperia 1 VI is an impressive phone in many ways, and much easier to recommend than the 1 V.”
Tech Advisor · 68
“Sony's Xperia 1 VI isn't perfect - but it's my new favourite flagship phone.”
Publisher score: 5/5
“Tom's Guide’s Sony Xperia 1 VI review (80/100): "Not just for camera pros anymore," highlighting its standout strengths and value trade-offs in everyday testing.”
Publisher score: 4/5
“The Sony Xperia 1 VI takes a more consumer-friendly approach than previous pro-focused entries, with an easier-to-use camera system, meaningful display tweaks and impressive battery life.”
Publisher score: 4/5 · 28mo ago
“Android Authority’s Sony Xperia 1 VI review (79/100): "Sony's best is better than ever," highlighting its standout strengths and value trade-offs in everyday testing.”
Publisher score: 79/100
“The Sony Xperia 1 VI is a great phone in a bubble, combining excellent battery life with a quality display, booming front-firing speakers, ample power and impressive camera hardware.”
Publisher score: 78/100 · 29mo ago
“With the Xperia 1 VI, Sony has taken a small step towards the mainstream without sacrificing its hardcore Pro credentials.”
Publisher score: 69/100 · 27mo ago
“The Xperia 1 VI is an impressive phone in many ways, and much easier to recommend than the 1 V.”
Publisher score: 68/100 · 28mo ago
The Sony Xperia 1 VI is the best Sony flagship in years (if you can buy it)
“Sony's best is better than ever.”
Source page · 3mo ago
Sony Xperia 1 VI review
“Not just for camera pros anymore.”
Source page · 3mo ago
Sony Xperia 1 VI review
“An old-school flagship that demands some compromise.”
Source page · 3mo ago
Sony Xperia 1 VI review
“All in all, the Xperia 1 VI is the best Xperia yet.”
Source page · 3mo ago
Sony Xperia 1 VI review
“Sony's Xperia 1 VI isn't perfect - but it's my new favourite flagship phone.”
Source page · 3mo ago
Source page · 4mo ago
Sony Xperia 1 VI review: Sony shifts its pro phone course | Expert Reviews
“With the Xperia 1 VI, Sony has taken a small step towards the mainstream without sacrificing its hardcore Pro credentials.”
Source page · 27mo ago
The Xperia 1 VI isn't a standout phone like its predecessor, but that's a good thing
“The Xperia 1 VI is an impressive phone in many ways, and much easier to recommend than the 1 V.”
Source page · 28mo ago
Sony Xperia 1 VI