Best Sony Phones 2026

Sony continues to be a beloved brand among photographers, filmmakers, audiophiles, and users who appreciate features that many other manufacturers have abandoned. In 2025, the Xperia lineup again focuses on cinema-grade displays, pro-level camera tools, premium builds, and the signature 21:9 aspect ratio that sets Sony apart.

Whether you’re a creator, a casual user, or someone who simply loves Sony’s minimalist design, this guide highlights the best Sony phones you can buy in 2025.

1. Sony Xperia 1 VI — The Ultimate Flagship

Why it’s the best:
The Xperia 1 VI leads Sony’s 2026 lineup with its professional-grade camera system and true optical zoom lens. It is designed for photographers and videographers who want DSLR-like control in a smartphone.

Key Features:

• Snapdragon flagship chipset
• 6.5″ OLED 120Hz display with a cinematic 21:9 aspect ratio
• Advanced multi-lens system with continuous optical zoom
• 5,000 mAh battery with Sony’s battery-health protection
• Dedicated camera shutter button
• Pro Photo & Video apps for full manual control

Best for: creators, filmmakers, mobile photographers, and power users.

DO NOT MISS: Sony Xperia 2 Pro Leak: Everything We Know So Far

2. Sony Xperia 1 V — Best Value Flagship

Why choose it:
While slightly older, the Xperia 1 V still offers Sony’s iconic 4K-style cinematic display and powerful imaging capabilities at a lower price than the 1 VI.

Key Features:

• Premium 6.5″ 4K/120Hz display
• High-end Snapdragon processor
• Triple-camera system with advanced computational photography
• MicroSD support (region-dependent)
• Excellent battery endurance

Best for: users who want flagship Sony performance but at a better price point.

3. Sony Xperia 5 V — The Compact Powerhouse

Why it stands out:
If you love smaller phones, the Xperia 5 V remains one of the best compact flagship options in 2025. It packs high-end performance into a comfortable one-hand size.

Key Features:

• 6.1″ OLED 120Hz compact display
• Powerful Snapdragon chipset
• High-quality main camera with Sony’s imaging software
• Great battery life in a small body
• Clean and professional design

Best for: users who want a compact flagship that doesn’t compromise on quality.

4. Sony Xperia 10 V — Best Budget Sony Phone

Why buy it:
The Xperia 10 V is the most affordable Xperia in 2025 and remains a strong choice for everyday users who still want Sony’s long battery life and practical design.

Key Features:

• Snapdragon mid-range processor
• 6.1″ OLED display
• 48MP main camera
• 5,000 mAh battery for all-day comfort
• Headphone jack and microSD support

Best for: budget buyers who want a reliable, long-lasting Sony phone.

5. Older Sony Flagships Still Worth Buying (Xperia 1 IV, PRO Models)

Sony’s older flagships, especially the Xperia 1 IV and Xperia PRO/PRO-I, remain excellent in 2025. With strong cameras, durable hardware, and Sony’s pro apps, they offer great value if found at a discount.

Best for: users seeking premium features without the premium 2025 price.

What Makes Sony Phones Special in 2025?

1. True Optical Zoom

Sony continues to offer real optical zoom on its flagships — a rare feature in modern smartphones.

2. Cinema-Style 21:9 Displays

Perfect for movies, editing, and multitasking.

3. Pro Tools for Creators

Photo Pro, Video Pro, and even basic manual modes mimic Sony Alpha camera controls.

4. Legacy Features People Still Want

Headphone jack, microSD expansion (in supported regions), and a dedicated shutter button.

Which Sony Phone Should You Buy in 2026?

• For photography & filmmaking: Xperia 1 VI
• For flagship value: Xperia 1 V
• For compact size: Xperia 5 V
• For affordable performance: Xperia 10 V
• For deals & older models: Xperia 1 IV or PRO-I

Sony phones shine brightest for creators, media lovers, and users who appreciate a premium, minimalist smartphone experience.

Conclusion

Sony’s 2026 smartphone lineup is all about refinement, creativity, and user control. From the ultra-premium Xperia 1 VI to the budget-friendly Xperia 10 V, there’s a Sony phone for every kind of user. If you’re looking for cinema-grade displays, manual camera controls, excellent audio, and a clean Android experience, Sony remains one of the most unique and reliable brands in the smartphone world.

FAQs

Q1: Are Sony phones good for photography?
Yes. Sony phones are among the best for photography, especially due to optical zoom, Alpha camera tech, and pro manual controls.

Q2: Are Sony phones good for gaming?
Yes, especially the flagship models with top-tier Snapdragon chips and high-refresh-rate displays.

Q3: Do Sony phones support microSD cards?
Some models do (varies by region), especially mid-range Xperia devices.

Q4: Which Sony phone has the best battery life in 2025?
The Xperia 10 V and Xperia 5 V are known for excellent endurance.

Q5: Should I consider older Sony models in 2026?
Absolutely — last-gen flagships like the Xperia 1 IV still offer great performance at lower prices.