Samsung Galaxy S5 vs. Sony Xperia Z2: 10 Factors to Know Which Top-Notch Smartphone Suits You

Sony Xperia Z2 is an upcoming rumoured smartphone boasting upgraded power than Xperia Z1 for 2014. Upon completion, it is expected that Galaxy S5 and Xperia Z2 will bout next year in a smartphone duel. Here is a comparison of their rumoured technologies.

Processor and RAM

According to SamMobile, the Galaxy S5 will feature 64-bit-enabled processor Exynos 6. Other reports indicate it may even have a Qualcomm variant with 64-bit support after a recent announcement of Snapdragon 410. The Exynos 6 boasts faster processing speed and better power management compared to its predecessor. Less power demands also points to lesser heat problems. Rumours also hint that the S5 will have an ultra-slim RAM chipset to make room for battery space and slimmer form.

The Xperia Z2, on the other hand, is expected to have Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, but Sony may begin to use 64-bit processors once Qualcomm releases a high-class processor type indicated by Snapdragon 410 scheduled for 2014 commercialisation. TechnoBuffalo cites AndroidSAS as stating that Sony could upgrade the RAM to 3 GB instead of retaining Z1's 2 GB RAM chip. This will enable a 64-bit CPU to maximise the virtual memory.

Operating System

Both flagship smartphones will use Android 4.4 KitKat OS that features Ok Google, new lock screen, wireless payment, cloud printing and more. However, the Galaxy S5 and the Xperia Z2 will differ in terms of add-ons using TouchWiz and Xperia interfaces, respectively.

Display Screen

SamMobile claim that Samsung considers PLS LCD display on the Galaxy S5 instead of Super AMOLED to reduce production cost of almost 20 per cent. If so, the Galaxy S5 will lose benefits of the battery-saving feature by OLED screens.

The Xperia Z2, on the other hand, may stick with the usual TFT display having Triluminos and X-Reality engines. But some rumours see that Sony may use IGZO technology to improve display quality and power efficiency on the Z2.

Camera Unit

A 16-MP ISOCELL rear camera shooter could make the S5 one powerful smartphone, reports said. ISOCELL captures images and records videos better in low-light scene, while Auto-Focus improvements are necessary for faster shoots without creating obvious blurs.

Android Advices speculates that Sony will definitely start at 20.7 MP Sony G lens camera with 4K resolution video recording. Other obvious features found in the Z1 such as Augmented Reality and TimeShift burst could also be included in the device. But the flash may change this time, and instead of using LED, the company could be thinking on adapting Xenon for Z2 to boost lighting and reduce blur and noise during shoots.

Battery Life

Expect higher battery ratings compared to its predecessors, but battery life isn't always about the hardware. Samsung and Sony should optimise their personalised software to consume less power and improve default power-saving tools to avoid getting comments of uselessness. Some reports found online describe "battery drain" for Galaxy S3 and Xperia SP, hinting some room for improvement.

Material Components

The Galaxy S5 in 2014 will have premium quality material components to match high-end devices such as HTC One and Sony Xperia the Z1. The Xperia Z2 is still featuring premium materials used by Sony on most Xperia units. The question here is: are these two durable against hazards?

Special Traits

Special features by Samsung for the S5 may include slimmer design from Note 3 schematics, Gorilla Glass and better processor. Samsung usually produces another variant which features anti-hazard traits to be released later on. The Galaxy S5 unique trait may be the rumoured security feature called Fingerprint ID or Retina sensors.

The Sony Xperia Z2 will have the same dust and water resistance in the Z1, multiple display engines such as Triluminos, X-Reality and Bravia, and scratch-proof and shatter display glass. A unique trait is growing for the Xperia Z2 called One-Hour Recharging Technology that uses wireless technology to cut 8-10 hours of charging time into a single hour.

Software Package

As usual, the Galaxy S5 and the Xperia Z2 will have TouchWiz and Xperia UIs, respectively, offering Galaxy S exclusive apps and Sony exclusive Media apps. But remember, many critics consider these things as bloatware if not very well used by their owners.

Release Dates

The year 2014 is the expected date for their grand appearance. Some rumours say that the S5 is ready for announcement at the CES 2013 while Sony already confirmed a press event on Jan 6, 2014. But commercial release dates of the Galaxy S5 and the Xperia Z2 may be marked by the end of Q1 next year.

Availability and Price

Expensive! Prepare at least $500 and up to $700 just to get a Galaxy S5 or Xperia Z2 off contract. For subscribers getting the devices on contract, the S5 will be most likely be available to all major network carriers in Australia, Canada, the UK and the U.S. but the Xperia Z2 may be found in certain carriers only like T-Mobile in the U.S.