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[Q] Xperia Z3 or HTC one M8 (need opinion)

hi, as the title says, im currently looking for a new phone, but im still confused, which one is better, the sony Xperia Z3 or the HTC one M8. Maybe you guys can give your opinions here and help me decide which one is better
thanks

azirr said:
hi, as the title says, im currently looking for a new phone, but im still confused, which one is better, the sony Xperia Z3 or the HTC one M8. Maybe you guys can give your opinions here and help me decide which one is better
thanks
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Before this gets locked, i'd say, I preferred my M8. Speakers, build quality, camera and screen. Z3 is waterproof though, and a nice shape.

azirr said:
hi, as the title says, im currently looking for a new phone, but im still confused, which one is better, the sony Xperia Z3 or the HTC one M8. Maybe you guys can give your opinions here and help me decide which one is better
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've used the m8 for about 3 months and the Z3 for maybe 3 weeks now and while they are close I'd have to say the Z3 is the better phone in many areas. The camera is no contest, the phone is just as snappy and the UI is great. The m8 has better speakers but the Z3 for most purposes is just as good. The battery life is much better on the Z3 and in my opinion the screen is a lot nicer and that extra real estate though not that much on paper is certainly noticeable. I love the camera shutter button and don't miss the IR from the m8 since I have no problem reaching for the remote control one foot away from me. The sound is louder through headphones on the m8 which is my only gripe really. Both feel very premium, I wouldn't rate one over the other, they're just two different types of premium (metal vs glass). The glass feels great, though the m8 is more comfortable to hold, but when the phones are past a certain threshold for size I think comfort in hand is all relatively the same anyways, aka I have no problems handling this phone and didn't think the m8 was significantly better other than mild comfort from the curve. That's about it, if I had to recommend to any friends I would hands down tell them they're getting better bang for the buck with the Z3 especially after the ps4 screen share update arrives. If you have any other comparison questions just ask away!

Jonathan-H said:
Before this gets locked, i'd say, I preferred my M8. Speakers, build quality, camera and screen. Z3 is waterproof though, and a nice shape.
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oh sorry, i just found out the device suggestion thread. thanks for your suggestion btw!

ladelfm said:
I've used the m8 for about 3 months and the Z3 for maybe 3 weeks now and while they are close I'd have to say the Z3 is the better phone in many areas. The camera is no contest, the phone is just as snappy and the UI is great. The m8 has better speakers but the Z3 for most purposes is just as good. The battery life is much better on the Z3 and in my opinion the screen is a lot nicer and that extra real estate though not that much on paper is certainly noticeable. I love the camera shutter button and don't miss the IR from the m8 since I have no problem reaching for the remote control one foot away from me. The sound is louder through headphones on the m8 which is my only gripe really. Both feel very premium, I wouldn't rate one over the other, they're just two different types of premium (metal vs glass). The glass feels great, though the m8 is more comfortable to hold, but when the phones are past a certain threshold for size I think comfort in hand is all relatively the same anyways, aka I have no problems handling this phone and didn't think the m8 was significantly better other than mild comfort from the curve. That's about it, if I had to recommend to any friends I would hands down tell them they're getting better bang for the buck with the Z3 especially after the ps4 screen share update arrives. If you have any other comparison questions just ask away!
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thank you for your very informative suggestion, im more leaning to z3 now after reading your sugestion! do you know what earphone around below 50$ that suits with the z3? since the bundled earphone is just sucks from what i heard.

While I don't own a m8 my cousin does but I do own a Z3 for a week now and apart from the louder/bassier stereo speakers (Z3 is still good enough) and the louder audio in headphones on the m8 (again Z3 is still good enough especially when using DSEE HX and the noise cancelling headphones and also has better Equalizer presets).
The Z3 is the better phone imo especially for camera/video, battery life, screen, look/feel/design is subjective but I much prefer the Z3 in this department and it is waterproof too and that has come handy in the last week alone.

I'd agree on getting the Z3 (although this is the Sony thread). Both are well built and have quality screens, but I prefer the larger battery and camera over the M8's. Although the speakers could be better, I believe there was a mod called DSEE HX that amplifies the speakers on the Z3. Overall, it relies on what your needs are. They both look good so you wouldn't lose either way. As this is based on opinions, I'd go for the Z3 because it is the newer model and its design is so sleek. Sense is pretty, but I'm all about Sony's stock look and feel. If those don't really matter to you, I guess you would decide whether or not you take more pictures or listen to more music.

RCJ89 said:
While I don't own a m8 my cousin does but I do own a Z3 for a week now and apart from the louder/bassier stereo speakers (Z3 is still good enough) and the louder audio in headphones on the m8 (again Z3 is still good enough especially when using DSEE HX and the noise cancelling headphones and also has better Equalizer presets).
The Z3 is the better phone imo especially for camera/video, battery life, screen, look/feel/design is subjective but I much prefer the Z3 in this department and it is waterproof too and that has come handy in the last week alone.
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Richie5767 said:
I'd agree on getting the Z3 (although this is the Sony thread). Both are well built and have quality screens, but I prefer the larger battery and camera over the M8's. Although the speakers could be better, I believe there was a mod called DSEE HX that amplifies the speakers on the Z3. Overall, it relies on what your needs are. They both look good so you wouldn't lose either way. As this is based on opinions, I'd go for the Z3 because it is the newer model and its design is so sleek. Sense is pretty, but I'm all about Sony's stock look and feel. If those don't really matter to you, I guess you would decide whether or not you take more pictures or listen to more music.
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thanks for your opinion guys! i think i have made up my decision now

What did you decide? I'm trying to decide if the z3 camera and battery life are enough of an improvement from my m8 to switch. I generally love the m8, but I HATE the camera. All my pictures are washed out with tons of glare from any light source.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

I just trade up my Htc m8 for the sony Z3 by using my T-mobile jump program.. I am really luving this phone man ?.I love how you really have alot of options..my biggest worry is dropping the phone and breaking the glass front or back...i really do not like covers on my phone..i think it take the beauty out of them..beside i pay
the extra $10 a month issuance ?
Sent from my Sony xperia Z3 using XDA Free mobile app

This thread had helped me make my decision to grab a Z3 today. I was on the fence in using Jump! to switch from my M8. I'll be going to T-Mo during lunch. Thanks to everyone for the input here.

I had an m8, I switched it for the z3 and I did everything I could to get it back again. Android development for z3 hasn't even begin, speaker quality is bad, the ui feels outdated and less responsive, camera besides x reality treatment in viewing is slow and inconsistent, the price is too high. Get an m8 which is superior in almost every aspect (m8's camera is mediocre too) or a z2 which is much cheaper and offers almost the same.

morfini said:
I had an m8, I switched it for the z3 and I did everything I could to get it back again. Android development for z3 hasn't even begin, speaker quality is bad, the ui feels outdated and less responsive, camera besides x reality treatment in viewing is slow and inconsistent, the price is too high. Get an m8 which is superior in almost every aspect (m8's camera is mediocre too) or a z2 which is much cheaper and offers almost the same.
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You don't think the camera is much better? It seems like it wouldn't take much to beat the m8 there.
I wish I could try it out and get my m8 back if I didn't like it. Tmobile doesn't allow that though.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Had M8 and now have Z3. Both are great phones. Camera isn't that bad on the M8. Especially if you just use it for social media.
Things I miss on the M8 are the IR Blaster and Blinkfeed.
Things I don't miss on the M8 are the power button on the top of the phone and the inability to swipe or double tap screen to unlock while sitting on a flat surface. You have to move the phone or it has to be in your hand on the M8. Z3 does not require that. Also, the curved back makes it rock if you wanna use the phone on a hard surface.
They both feel very comfortably to hold. Although the M8 was a bit slippery when it was brand new. Both have great speakers, and screen. Build quality is equal to me but the Z3 is a bit lighter so the M8 has little more of a solid feel in your hand.
Oh, and one of the most important thing. The battery life is a lot better on the Z3. After the first charge, I got over 6.5 hours of screen time. I expect it to get better after a few more charges. Most I could get out of the M8 was barely 5 hours.

There are tips in m8' s topic which make its camera decent even for printing photos.. It can even get better than z3's in some aspects in my opininion. Z3 has indeed better battery life, and x reality engine can make colours pop out from the screen, if you like such an effect. That's it for me, everything else is better on m8. And keep in mind that z2 is now much cheaper.

Erckul said:
This thread had helped me make my decision to grab a Z3 today. I was on the fence in using Jump! to switch from my M8. I'll be going to T-Mo during lunch. Thanks to everyone for the input here.
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If you go to buy, ask to test the device first, they will open the packaging for it.
Look for the following:
-Frame being bent outward or toward LCD <- Mine had that
-Light bleed between frame and LCD <- Mine had that
-Pink spots in camera <- Mine had that (barely noticeable but diffuse)
-Pressure test to ensure, water tightness
-Test speakers as some are getting major stereo mismatch in loudness.
I unfortunately, could not test, and since I preordered, I cannot exchange in store had to mail mine back.

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azirr said:
hi, as the title says, im currently looking for a new phone, but im still confused, which one is better, the sony Xperia Z3 or the HTC one M8. Maybe you guys can give your opinions here and help me decide which one is better
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
when you ask about Z3 in z3 forum it means more will vote for z3
1 important thing i can say about Xperia devices is durability
beside this there is more ram and awesome camera and better design
:good:

definitely z3 for me. the last time i had a htc one m7, it died on me after just barely after a year. i was also having a lot of software issues with it. purple tint, battery depleting fast and auto shut down. that was my last htc phone.
z3 got my attention with the battery life.

thanks for all of your opinions guys!! helped me alot. im going for the z3 but its not available yet in my country, so i have to wait for a couple more weeks to have it

I have both a Z3 D6603 and a HTC M8 Developer Edition. I really like the UI on the Sony a lot. Its a tough choice. The Copper color Z3 is awesome and a nice change from the gold devices by all the rest.
I do like the extra battery, more ram, and x-reality on the Z3, however; I can convert my m8 to a GPE and get Android L much quicker than we will get it on the Z3. By the time the Z3 gets Android L, then HTC will launch it as well (both promise within 90 days of release) and I can throw that on my m8.
I am more concerned with the lack of development on the Z3 and Sony's DRM Bootloader crap. I know the device was just released but so has a boat load of other devices and which ones with ultimately get the Dev Love ?

How sure are we that we are making the right choice?

Hello XDA developers!
I'm posting this because perhaps it can help someone else.
In August 2014 I bought a beautiful shiny Sony Xperia Z, free from factory which means I paid full price and it was great!
(but everything changed when the Fire Nation attacked, it was a joke ).
But, after a little over a day and a half, the screen broke alone in the front pocket of my pants (I confess something tight but had put my cracked Huawei with no problems), it really is not a problem: I had a Huawei with screen without pieces working perfectly fine! The problem is that about 100% of the touch stopped working, making the phone an expensive paperweight.
I could not even take a picture! Everything for what I was use it was for timing a pendulum in my physics class. The most expensive clock that anyone could buy!
Of course, the warranty was conspicuously absent!
Since then I have had to exist with this phone and Genymotion because in college have a smart phone is a necessity (at least where I study).
But now I have the opportunity to purchase a high-end phone and the first thing that came to my mind as a camera flash was Sony (I quote in Spanish: "El ser humano es el único animal, tan animal, que tropieza dos veces con la misma piedra.") Because I'm a Linux / Android developer and Sony launches AOSP kernels and release the source code even before launching the device itself (as with the Z2) leaves to me a good taste in the mouth, especially after being a proud owner of an Xperia Tipo (best smartphone in my life!). The "slow development" is no problem for me, because I am developer for 5 years (although recently I deleted my Gmail account and opened another for personal reasons, thats explains why I'm junior again).
Leaving that aside, is the Xperia Z3 a good choice?
I'm thinking in spend a lot of money (around 2 minimum wage in my country) in a good device but it does not convince me at all, maybe due my trauma with Xperia Z.
As a proud owner of an Xperia Tipo, Sony is amazing, as a defrauded and (fooled?, cheated?) holder of an Xperia Z, Sony sucks.
I post this because maybe someone will feel helped and like me maybe some one indecisive can feel safer to opt in or to run quickly away from Sony.
If the risk is greater than the gain, as the Xperia Z, what are our options? Personally, I look for a device that does not baulk with things like Custom Kernels (as KNOX or locked Bootloaders). Samsung: I'm supposed to own my phone!, right?
Thanks for reading, I hope this is helpful and if it is not, at least I hope it will help someone (even me).
I think of a OnePlus One, I do not care to be brought from China XD. (I've tried to win an invite bu no one love the "inncoent" humor)
Edit: If you think on this, the M8 is a good alternative! In comparison, the "desventage" of the M8 is the waterproof. I can't find any other.
Edit: This was my last phone (this phone is my current phone):
Cracked but fully working Huawey Y320 Arround $60
1. My dog ran and pulled the USB making the phone kiss the ground.
2. Then, I accidentally droped on the College.
3. I was angry cuz it reboot and smashed against the table.
4. Was woking perfectly good till the LCD cracked because I sat on phone.

Z3 is simply amazing but I'd suggest you wait for another 3-4 weeks. The first batch of Z3s are full of manufacturing defects. I had mine for 2 weeks and the black bezel around the screen is damaged. I went to the service center and they asked me to wait another month so that a new batch of phones will be available. Also the camera quality is average. Sony screwed up again in the Superior Auto mode. Manual shots come OK unless there is no bright light around. Speakers are also a bit dull, although I don't use them much. A friend of mine has OnePlus One and it's seriously a flagship killer. But compared to the Z3, OnePlus one looks dull in your hands. Z3 kinda nailed it in design department. So wait, and even if you buy it, just check it in the store itself for any defects. Also don't forget those service tests. Hope it helps.

NoTengoBattery said:
Hello XDA developers!
I post this because maybe someone will feel helped and like me maybe some one indecisive can feel safer to opt in or to run quickly away from Sony.
If the risk is greater than the gain, as the Xperia Z, what are our options? Personally, I look for a device that does not baulk with things like Custom Kernels (as KNOX or locked Bootloaders). Samsung: I'm supposed to own my phone!, right?
Thanks for reading, I hope this is helpful and if it is not, at least I hope it will help someone (even me).
I think of a OnePlus One, I do not care to be brought from China XD.
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Click to collapse
Knowing that you are a developer, I would definitely say that you should go for xperia Z3 - for personal (rather Z3 community's) interests. Go for z3 dual D6633, and you know why

santoshcoolhere said:
Z3 is simply amazing but I'd suggest you wait for another 3-4 weeks. The first batch of Z3s are full of manufacturing defects. I had mine for 2 weeks and the black bezel around the screen is damaged. I went to the service center and they asked me to wait another month so that a new batch of phones will be available. Also the camera quality is average. Sony screwed up again in the Superior Auto mode. Manual shots come OK unless there is no bright light around. Speakers are also a bit dull, although I don't use them much. A friend of mine has OnePlus One and it's seriously a flagship killer. But compared to the Z3, OnePlus one looks dull in your hands. Z3 kinda nailed it in design department. So wait, and even if you buy it, just check it in the store itself for any defects. Also don't forget those service tests. Hope it helps.
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Yeah! maybe buy it right now is not smart enough and, no, sadly there is no such thing like Sony Centre here. Are one, but they can't do anything (they won't replace the phone never!), I mean, I bring them my Xperia Z and they just acused me of abuse. I really can't realize how the best support brand (in my opinion) can made defective devices!
You don't know how many I've suffer because the Z, I give you a breef detail: As I buy the phone in the half of month, I've eating only eggs by 15+ days because I had no enoguh money to buy descent food! So, my trauma is justificated and I'm scared. Ahhh Sony, There are nothing bad for you, but for us the things are turning black. And the sacrifice does not had any value: I never opend the cammera app, I never setted a password, I never changed the wallpaper, I never enjoyed anything the next day I needed Blackboard in the phone but, of curse, I had no phone.
Thank you for your answer.

NoTengoBattery said:
...is the Xperia Z3 a good choice?
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Click to collapse
You didn't give much away in terms of what you want to do with it. It's a great phone, but if you want a cheaper, larger phone perhaps you could consider the Nexus 6. Also, there's the Z2, S5 and other phones which have been out for a while and are cheaper.
That's not to say I regret getting the Z3; it's the best phone I've ever had, and 4g is amusingly fast, but it's expensive (I got a discount through my employer otherwise I'd probably not have bothered).

poldie said:
You didn't give much away in terms of what you want to do with it. It's a great phone, but if you want a cheaper, larger phone perhaps you could consider the Nexus 6. Also, there's the Z2, S5 and other phones which have been out for a while and are cheaper.
That's not to say I regret getting the Z3; it's the best phone I've ever had, and 4g is amusingly fast, but it's expensive (I got a discount through my employer otherwise I'd probably not have bothered).
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Yeah! I'ts not about money, cuz the money it's a vanal stuff. I'm afraid about if my inversion, my money will have any value. As I owned a Xperia Z by 1.5+ days, my inversion had no value. If my Z3 crack again, you know, god bye money!
So, the S5 looks fine, the screen cracks but still working!
Thank you for your answer.

As much as I like the Z3, and getting mine replaced due to severe light bleed on right side of frame and slight indent of frame towards LCD near power button. Others have a pink spot issue in camera (Mine has it but very hard to notice), Phonearena even has an article on it. Now reports of fractured back glass are coming in like the Z1.
Better wait for a new batch like someone mentioned.
If you need one right now immediately, the M8 is better as in US HTC offers free one time screen replacement in first 6 months.

santoshcoolhere said:
Z3 is simply amazing but I'd suggest you wait for another 3-4 weeks. The first batch of Z3s are full of manufacturing defects. I had mine for 2 weeks and the black bezel around the screen is damaged. I went to the service center and they asked me to wait another month so that a new batch of phones will be available. Also the camera quality is average. Sony screwed up again in the Superior Auto mode. Manual shots come OK unless there is no bright light around. Speakers are also a bit dull, although I don't use them much. A friend of mine has OnePlus One and it's seriously a flagship killer. But compared to the Z3, OnePlus one looks dull in your hands. Z3 kinda nailed it in design department. So wait, and even if you buy it, just check it in the store itself for any defects. Also don't forget those service tests. Hope it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So is it guaranteed that they will make new batches in 3-4 weeks? Wouldn't they still sell the old batch as they phase in the new? I want one but how long would it take for a new batch? I just want to know how long to wait. Any help is appreciated.

To be honest its hard to say.

I would say avoid it. There's no ROM's for it, and probably won't be until well after the Z4 is released if at all, and they won't be of the level of M8 ROMS. The screen, camera, speakers and design aren't as good as other alternatives, and if you managed to break a Z in your pocket which is a miracle, then this will probably do the same.
I'd get an S5 or an M8, the M8 is probably better for custome ROMS, is better made, has a better screem, speakers and in my book a better camera too, but is not waterproof.

Jonathan-H said:
I would say avoid it. There's no ROM's for it, and probably won't be until well after the Z4 is released if at all, and they won't be of the level of M8 ROMS. The screen, camera, speakers and design aren't as good as other alternatives, and if you managed to break a Z in your pocket which is a miracle, then this will probably do the same.
I'd get an S5 or an M8, the M8 is probably better for custome ROMS, is better made, has a better screem, speakers and in my book a better camera too, but is not waterproof.
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Maybe you are right. It's time to look in other way. The M8 sounds like a great idea. It's sad the stuff about the glass. If the glass were better and the screen worked this phone could be perfect. However, I'm gonna see how the things are changing in the time.

Dont forget the free HTC Advantage Program (USA only), Free cracked glass replacement, in first 6 months and +100GB Google Drive storage for 2 years.

abhinav.tella said:
Dont forget the free HTC Advantage Program (USA only), Free cracked glass replacement, in first 6 months and +100GB Google Drive storage for 2 years.
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Seeing in YouTube looks like M8 camera sucks! How true is this?

I hate it. I'm thinking of getting the z3 because I hate the camera so much. Other than the camera, it's an amazing phone.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

devarshi said:
I hate it. I'm thinking of getting the z3 because I hate the camera so much. Other than the camera, it's an amazing phone.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
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Don't worry that's what put me off too. I made my dad get it because he is more accident prone and it is one of the best if not the best in drop tests.

One Plus One owner - Considering the Z3

Hi guys,
I am in much need of feedback...
Currently, I have the OnePlus One, and am liking it very much.
The endless customizations options and very good build quality especially.
However, I would like a change, and the smaller size of the Z3 is what I am after.
Anyone here came from OnePlus ??
Thanks in advance.
D.

I came from the OnePlus only because mine had gremlins :'( i prefer the Z3 though, better camera + camera modes, better battery life, only downside is no developers for it + no root with LB

I don't have an OnePlus One but I have compared my Z3 to a couple of my friend's. Let me tell you that it feels completely different. The Z3 fits in the hand a lot nicer than the OnePlus One. Also, there is no comparison between the aesthetics. If you are looking for a smaller size and prefer the stock feel of Sony's UI, then I would consider this phone. The battery is amazing on the Z3, but I've heard the same about the OnePlus One from my friends and through some reviews.
A couple disadvantages would be that the phone cannot be rooted and there aren't many developers because of this (without losing bootloader). Some say that their phone is not waterproof, but I have had no issues so that may be something you want to get checked out. There is also the glass back which is very slippery. Most of my drops have been through my phone sliding off tables if they are slanted just because of how smooth the glass back is. I'd definitely recommend a case or tempered glass for your phone if you do purchase.
What you get in the overall package is design, a beautiful screen, nicer camera, and slightly better battery (depends on usage). Although it is pricey, the phone is solid and worth it imo. I have dropped mine on four occasions with tempered glass on both sides and my phone did not dent or shatter (only my tempered glass did).
If there is no reason for you to switch, I would just keep the OnePlus One because phones are expensive X_X. Otherwise, there are other alternatives to a Z3 if you just want a smaller phone. For other options, I would recommend the Nexus 5 or HTC One M8. Only reason to go for a Z3 is if you prefer its design over the competitors. I do get a lot of comments about my phone's beauty and similarity to an iphone.:laugh:
I know this is long, but I hope it helps. Best of luck in your search!

I came from a OnePlus. But i kept it judt in case.
Overall tge Z3 is a great device. But there are a few things that you may want to consider when getting it, as i have learnt now.
1. No Root (Without comprimise) - This is number one for me. Coming from a line of nexus devices i was so suprised to see how difficult it would be to get this on the Z3 without comprimise. I unfortunately didnt do my research before hand.
2. Low dev support - Well compared to the One Plus and nexus 5 anyway which also suprised me. I thought considering the amount of support Sony gives the community this might be different, but alas.
3. Internal Memory - This is my biggest one. I personally thought i could get away with just 16gb and for the most part i am. But the difference is i have to consider it alot more than i did with the one plus one. I have a 64gb OnePlus and also a 64gb memory card in my Xperia which stores all of my music, but things like apps and such do not install on the memory card. So you just have to watch your internal memory more carefully.
4. The phone is slippery as hell - My advice would be to get a thin case and a tempered glass screen protector because this phone is very slippery. On flat surfaces it's a scare, especially when listening to music with a bit of bass, it has a mind of it's own.
But other than the three issues i have highlighted, as has been said before the phone is awesome. Screen, battery life, camera all top the OnePlus in My opinion. You won't be loosing out. But just consider the above and more to help yourself make an informative decision.
Hope this is helpful.

ryanraven said:
I came from the OnePlus only because mine had gremlins :'( i prefer the Z3 though, better camera + camera modes, better battery life, only downside is no developers for it + no root with LB
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Agreed! In my opinion the Z3 is way better than the OPO but for sw mood and root. I love AOSP and CM, but Sony customisation is very very stable and consistent.
Inviato dal mio D6603 utilizzando Tapatalk

ryanraven said:
I came from the OnePlus only because mine had gremlins :'( i prefer the Z3 though, better camera + camera modes, better battery life, only downside is no developers for it + no root with LB
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Click to collapse
Yeah, the no developers bit is what kills me, im really considering going back to the note with the jump I have available. The sound is amazing and the camera looks real good but its hard to go back to stock after being spoiled by xposed

Z3 or Z3+?

Hello everyone!
I have been using the Z1 for the almost past two years, but it's time to change my phone, and I was considering the Z3+, but reading all the time about its overheating made me a little more than weary about this.
I am also still considering the LG G4, since my wife owns one and can tell from experience that the G4 is a beautiful phone, very snappy too, and doesn't skip a beat. Not to tell you about the camera, which is by far the best I've used so far on a phone until now.
But I must say that the LG skin on top of Android isn't a selling point for me, although I would install Nova Launcher right from the start. So, after some consideration, I also started thinking about getting the Z3, since I love Sony phones and their premium feel.
Right now, what would you guys think? Z3 or the ill-fated Z3+? I must mention that I wouldn't be crazy about using filming in 4K, which I understand is one of the reasons for overheating (although Snapdragon 810 itself is the culprit here).
Thoughts, suggestions, your own experiences with those phones, I am all ears

I use Z3. And it's a great phone..
But..
Low volume in calls is killing me
I used to use Samsung and iPhone phones and I must say Samsung had the best reception and call quality of them all.
I read that Z3 is much louder on KitKat 4.4.4.? I got my phone with 5.0.2 out of the box and yesterday updated to 5.1 but the low volume probably hasn't been addressed yet. If you don't care about it Z3 is a great phone.

shutterstill said:
I use Z3. And it's a great phone..
But..
Low volume in calls is killing me
I used to use Samsung and iPhone phones and I must say Samsung had the best reception and call quality of them all.
I read that Z3 is much louder on KitKat 4.4.4.? I got my phone with 5.0.2 out of the box and yesterday updated to 5.1 but the low volume probably hasn't been addressed yet. If you don't care about it Z3 is a great phone.
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When you say "low volume", do you mean you cannot be heard or cannot hear the other end of the line well enough? Or both? How do you find 5.1 so far? The 5.0.2 on my Z1 is very bad in terms of battery life. How's the Z3 so far?

I can be heard no problem but voice coming from my side is low.
For example if car passes me on the street I can't hear person on the other hand.
I have clean ears and brand new phone
I had no problems whatsoever with Note 4. I walk the same road with my daughter everyday and usually talking on the phone with my wife, that's why I know because I ask her more often to repeat what she said when a car passes by. That was not the case before...

Well in the past 2 months I've switched three phones. I had HTC one m8 since Christmas sold it cause with work(workshop joinery)the speakers get dusty so tried the Samsung s5 good phone terrible battery, sound and reception from my carrier. I buy all my phones unlocked as well and all carriers where the same. Below par of the one m8. Then I switched check ed to the z3(first one) my first z3 the top speaker stopped working so got a new model. First one was kitkat second one was lollipop and didn't notice a difference between in call volume was grand but then again I'm use to not hearing people with work. But however I rooted and flashed the zip with the sound mod and it is way better than normal.
You may say I don't want to root but out off all the three phones the Sony is the easiest to root. It is so simple it's not even funny. And you are not even voiding warranty unlike the HTC and Samsung which trip knox and unlock bootloaders.
But I have been rooting android since 2.0 so it's nothing new to me

So far, people seem to favor the Z3. Keep it coming, gents!

Huawei p8 u carnt go wrong

vimto25 said:
Huawei p8 u carnt go wrong
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the idea, but I am trying to decide between Z3 and Z3+ here.

snwman said:
Well in the past 2 months I've switched three phones. I had HTC one m8 since Christmas sold it cause with work(workshop joinery)the speakers get dusty so tried the Samsung s5 good phone terrible battery, sound and reception from my carrier. I buy all my phones unlocked as well and all carriers where the same. Below par of the one m8. Then I switched check ed to the z3(first one) my first z3 the top speaker stopped working so got a new model. First one was kitkat second one was lollipop and didn't notice a difference between in call volume was grand but then again I'm use to not hearing people with work. But however I rooted and flashed the zip with the sound mod and it is way better than normal.
You may say I don't want to root but out off all the three phones the Sony is the easiest to root. It is so simple it's not even funny. And you are not even voiding warranty unlike the HTC and Samsung which trip knox and unlock bootloaders.
But I have been rooting android since 2.0 so it's nothing new to me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Big thanks for your comment!
There is a hope for me [emoji2]
Would you be able to tell us a bit more which root tool did you use and which version of sound mod. I would love to be happy with my z3 like you are.
Cheers

shutterstill said:
Big thanks for your comment!
There is a hope for me [emoji2]
Would you be able to tell us a bit more which root tool did you use and which version of sound mod. I would love to be happy with my z3 like you are.
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries should of even said but couldnt remember i had the z3 compact before the htc one m8 but i found the screen to small but was an brilliant phone otherwise. To root its actually easy here is the thread i followed its on the general section same as the thread you started root z3 . The tool you will only have issues with is flashtool takes a bit to get use to and takes a while to load up but just follow all the guides and it will work. Just click into youtube and there will be few guys who show you how to do it as well.
But the low volume seems to specific to some phones the same as the top speaker goes on some of the z3 as well. Like the z3 compact front facing speakers where not as good as the z3 i found. Was a downfall i thought i had to face coming off the htc one m8 but im not disappointed i find them very good.
Even if you root the phone the low volume might not get sorted. But its easy to unroot again if needed

snwman said:
No worries should of even said but couldnt remember i had the z3 compact before the htc one m8 but i found the screen to small but was an brilliant phone otherwise. To root its actually easy here is the thread i followed its on the general section same as the thread you started root z3 . The tool you will only have issues with is flashtool takes a bit to get use to and takes a while to load up but just follow all the guides and it will work. Just click into youtube and there will be few guys who show you how to do it as well.
But the low volume seems to specific to some phones the same as the top speaker goes on some of the z3 as well. Like the z3 compact front facing speakers where not as good as the z3 i found. Was a downfall i thought i had to face coming off the htc one m8 but im not disappointed i find them very good.
Even if you root the phone the low volume might not get sorted. But its easy to unroot again if needed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the directions.
And you wrote in the first comment:
"But however I rooted and flashed the zip with the sound mod and it is way better than normal. "
What was that mod?

shutterstill said:
Thanks for the directions.
And you wrote in the first comment:
"But however I rooted and flashed the zip with the sound mod and it is way better than normal. "
What was that mod?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here sound mod there is another one in z3 android development thread

I'd choose the Z3 just for the magnetic charging port. I can't believe they no longer have it.
Sent from my D6616 using XDA Free mobile app

vimto25 said:
Huawei p8 u carnt go wrong
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried and tested P8 near my loved Z3. It's a great smartphone, better than others
I thinked Sony was the only one to get the best hardware/software/camera combo but I have to admit P8 is similar..a very good product..:good:
Z3 or Z3+? I think z3 is the best choice, better price/performance..so you could get your next smatphone before, saving your money for a closer future
Z3 has root, better advanced firmware, better battery...
only manual camera controls support is missing

I think changes between Z3 and Z3+ is not huge. If me I will pick Z3, mainly because cheaper, larger battery, louder speaker compare with Z3+. Snapdragon 801 probably still can provide a smooth experience in 2 years time. If you don't mind paid more, is better for you to wait for Sony next flagship. Rumors say it will launch in September this year.

shilent said:
I'd choose the Z3 just for the magnetic charging port. I can't believe they no longer have it.
Sent from my D6616 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I prefer the z3+ which I still believe should of been the z3 design, the magnetic port is only held by tape which has broken alot apparently on amazon reviews

Well, I think I will get the Z3 then; I really don't want a phone bogged down by the heat.
Sent from my C6903 using Tapatalk

shutterstill said:
Thanks for the directions.
And you wrote in the first comment:
"But however I rooted and flashed the zip with the sound mod and it is way better than normal. "
What was that mod?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flash the zip made by pricey2009. Flash the v 6.0 mod. It will fix the internal ear speaker. I have a similar problem as yours. Unable to ear the other side properly.

[Q] is getting the z3 now in the almost ending 2015 a good idea?

I'm considering in purchasing a xperia z3 D6603. I will be coming from the new 2015 moto x pure which I can't put my finger on it but something about the phone I don't like. I know the mot x pure is a brand new phone with brand new specs so why would i downgrade to an older device? I've always sparked interest in the Sony line of devices. The z5 is just way to expensive for me. I'm still in the 14 day return period for the moto x pure and thinking of returning it and ordering a xperia z3. Does the z3 already have 5.1.1 lollipop ota? And which varient of the z3 is the more supported version?. I'm from the u.s but looking in the android dev thread it looks like the D6603 is the more supported version.
Any thoughts and issues with the device?
Thanks in advance

I think you should
It's an awesome piece of device. I bought mine 6 months ago knowing that there will be newer flagships such as the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge or the upcoming Sony Xperia Z5 and so on. Despite the newer flagships on the market, I still consider this unit at top notch. Sure it has no fingerprint sensor like the 2 that I mentioned, but nonetheless, it's a handsome piece of device. As for the OTA update, I'm not quite sure if it is available there in the US.. But I'm pretty sure with PC Companion, you can update yours easily. Not to mention that the upcoming Android Marshmallow or Android M for Sony will be released before the year ends. Just watch out for dead pixels; those are the common defects I read about on the internet.

I just bought my Z3 a few days ago... My G4 screen died and I decided to get an older device. Like you I had the same issue with the G4... Great device but there was just something about it I just cant get away with, i think it mightve been the clunky interface or the whole G4 package just seemed to much.. Im not sure.
However, Im happy with the Z3.. I also looked at the M9 as Im a bit of a Media lover, but for me the Camera on the M9 just hadnt improved enough to warrant the cash... Yes ok, the speakers on the M9 do give a richer fuller sound than the Z3, but the ones on the Z3 are not to be ignored. They can lack bass and mid-range, sounding a bit tinny at times, but for me it was... Great speakers, Awesome camera, great battery of the Z3 Or Amazing speakers, awful Camera and ok battery of the M9.. The Z3 won... plus I like alot of the Apps that come on the Z3, which save me having to download extra apps to waste more battery, such as:
A podcast App built strainght into the Walkman player
Google Newstand and Xperia lounge for news, music and a few interesting things.
Sony Video
A built-in FM Radio
and Love it oir Hate it... Sonys LifeLog.
The speakers are Loud but again can lack richness.
A great all round package... and even though its very square.. It looks quite cool as well and a nice dearture from all the Samsung sheep walking around.
Here in UK, we have LP 511, but just hope SONY survive with the Z5... Their mobile devision hangs in the balance here.
Z3 is a great device.. ide recommend it to anyone

I bought this phone 3 months ago, and it is an awesomely great looking phone with good specs... I except more from the camera, but the design is outstanding to me... You'll see what i mean when you have this phone, especially the copper colour. Multitasking is great, it is comfortable to hold, the speaker is awesome but sometimes it is a bit low, especially when watching on YouTube., it is fast, no stutter what so ever, except in lockscreen which is frequently stuttered (it is a new bug, haven't discovered this in 5.0.2), low light and outdoor camera is very good, it is very rigid to me, especially if you use tempered glass screen protector on both front and back, the battery is great,but the performance is a bit reduced since. 200 update and later..
Sent from my D6653 using XDA Free mobile app

I'm about to buy that phone next week. Is it still a problem with camera after rooting? I don't know much about it, that's why I'm asking.

Definitely worth it. Esp the price is low now. I have Z3, my brother the S6 and he is thinking of switching to a Z3 too. Mainly bec of the battery, waterproofness, SD Card slot, front speakers and practically everything else except maybe the screen amd fingerprint scanner. If fingerscanner is a must i advised him to get tge Z5, but the price is still quite high.
Sent from my D6653

I bought the xperia z3 a few days ago and i have no regrets. The battery, sleek UI and design is what makes this phone amazing and the community on the Z3 forums on xda are one of my favourites so far