Motorola Nexus 6 vs. Sony Xperia Z3: Features On New Nexus To Match Latest Sony Phone

Android 5.0 Lollipop, 64-bit processing architecture, Project Volta, Material Design UI and more are what buyers can expect on Nexus 6. So what does Nexus 6 have to justify its very close price tag with Xperia Z3?

Apps And Games

Both are running Android OS with instant access to Google Play Store to download apps and games. Sony implemented the PlayStation 4 Remote Play on Xperia Z3 to allow users to play exclusive games without using a TV and the console all the time.

However, DUALSHOCK4 controller is required to get the PS4 gaming experience and currently sold separately. Nexus 6 can simply offer free games via Google Play Store with immersive viewing due to its six inches of screen and very high resolution display than Xperia Z3 without requiring a controller.

Audio Experience In General

Sony offers Digital Noise Cancellation or DNC, several other audio engines and stereo speakers on Xperia Z3. But it only works with a compatible accessory supporting DNC and Nexus 6 also offers dual front-facing speakers for music, games and movies.

For accessories to boost audio experience, get USB-based microphones, speakers and amplifiers because Android 5.0 Lollipop supports any of these portable sound boosters on Nexus 6. In addition, experience multi-channel audio stream mixing of up to eight channels including 5.1 and 7.1 channels.

Bloatware Applications

Nexus 6 and Xperia Z3 have bloatware apps preinstalled upon purchase. Nexus 6 mostly carry extra apps from Google only such as Play Store, Gmail, Calendar, Chrome, Hangouts, Plus and more. Sony provided WALKMAN as default music player, ALBUM and Movies for images and videos, and Sony Entertainment Service for other entertainment functions that are running on top of Google Play Services.

Device Integration

If envious with accessories such as smartwatches, smart TVs and others, Nexus 6 is compatible with Android TV, Android Wear and Android tablets using Android 5.0 Lollipop. Unlike with most Android gadgets, Nexus 6 can use any Android wearable as long as it is part of the Android Wear environment such as Moto 360.

Camera And 4K Video Recording

Sony Xperia Z3 boasts a 20.7 MP rear camera with Sony G lens to deliver great imaging while Motorola Nexus 6 sports a 13 MP rear camera with an f2.0 lens and dual-LED flash to provide quality imaging.

But do not underestimate the 13 MP rear camera on Nexus 6 for it can record 4K videos just like Xperia Z3 with playback right on the smartphone due to Android 5.0 Lollipop support. Nexus 6 can also support raw image files such as YUV and Bayer RAW for professional photography.

Overall Battery Performance

Battery performance on Nexus 6 and Xperia Z3 is expected to last at least one day depending on the length and degree of usage. Each device offers battery tools to extend performance within the entire day:

Latest reports unveiled that Google will price Nexus 6 unlocked version at $649 with 32 GB storage capacity on October 29. Sony Xperia Z3 unlocked version is currently priced at $649 in Amazon with 16 GB storage capacity.