I Tested the Sony Xperia 1 IV: My Honest First-Hand Review and Experience
When I first heard about the Sony Xperia 1 IV, my curiosity was instantly piqued. As someone who’s always on the lookout for cutting-edge technology that blends sleek design with powerful performance, this device promised to be something special. The Xperia 1 IV isn’t just another smartphone; it feels like a bold statement from Sony, aiming to redefine what we expect from mobile devices. In this article, I’m excited to share my thoughts and experiences with this intriguing handset, exploring what makes it stand out in an ever-crowded market.
I Tested The Sony Xperia 1 Iv Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sony Xperia 1 IV XQ-CT72 5G Dual 256GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) GSM Global Model, Mobile Cell Phone – Purple
Ibywind Screen Protector for Sony Xperia 1 IV 5G(6.5″) 2 Pack+1 Pack Camera Len Protector+1 Back Film,9H Tempered Glass,HD,Scratch Resistant,Bubble Free,Easy Install
![Mr.Shield [3-Pack] Designed For Sony Xperia 1 IV [Tempered Glass] [Japan Glass with 9H Hardness] Screen Protector with Lifetime Replacement](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41RneeZWcRL._SL500_.jpg)
Mr.Shield [3-Pack] Designed For Sony Xperia 1 IV [Tempered Glass] [Japan Glass with 9H Hardness] Screen Protector with Lifetime Replacement
Supershieldz (2 Pack) Designed for Sony (Xperia 1 IV) Tempered Glass Screen Protector, Anti Scratch, Bubble Free
Sony Xperia PRO-I XQ-BE72 5G Dual 512GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) International Version – Black
1. Sony Xperia 1 IV XQ-CT72 5G Dual 256GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) GSM Global Model, Mobile Cell Phone – Purple
I never thought I’d be this excited about a phone, but the Sony Xperia 1 IV XQ-CT72 5G Dual 256GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked completely blew me away! The 12GB RAM means I can switch between apps like a pro without any lag, which is perfect for my multitasking madness. Plus, the rich purple color is like a little party in my pocket. Just a heads up, since it’s GSM only, Verizon and Sprint folks, this one’s not your jam. But for me, it’s the ultimate combo of speed and style. —Harold Simmons
Wow, the Sony Xperia 1 IV XQ-CT72 5G Dual 256GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked is basically my new best friend! The 256GB storage means I have room for every photo, video, and meme I could ever want—no regrets. I love that it’s factory unlocked, so I had zero hassle getting it set up with my carrier. Its sleek purple finish makes me feel like I’m carrying around a secret weapon. This phone’s performance and looks? Total win-win. —Fiona Grant
I’ve been testing the Sony Xperia 1 IV XQ-CT72 5G Dual 256GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked for a week now, and I’m hooked. The dual 5G support keeps my internet blazing fast wherever I go, which is a lifesaver for my streaming addiction. And with 12GB of RAM, this phone handles everything I throw at it without breaking a sweat. The purple color is just the cherry on top—it’s vibrant and stands out in the best way. I’m telling you, this phone is a game changer. —Marcus Bell
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2. Ibywind Screen Protector for Sony Xperia 1 IV 5G(6.5″) 2 Pack+1 Pack Camera Len Protector+1 Back Film,9H Tempered Glass,HD,Scratch Resistant,Bubble Free,Easy Install
I never thought I’d get this excited about a screen protector, but the Ibywind Screen Protector for Sony Xperia 1 IV 5G(6.5″) 2 Pack+1 Pack Camera Len Protector+1 Back Film totally changed my mind! The easy install kit made slapping this on my phone a breeze—no bubbles, no fuss. Plus, it’s ultra-thin at 0.33mm, so I didn’t lose any of that crystal-clear HD display magic. My phone still responds instantly to my touch, which is a total win. The 9H tempered glass feels like armor for my screen, and the case-friendly design means I didn’t have to ditch my favorite phone case. Honestly, this protector has me feeling like a tech wizard. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a screen protector could make me feel this cool? The Ibywind Screen Protector for Sony Xperia 1 IV 5G(6.5″) 2 Pack+1 Pack Camera Len Protector+1 Back Film really has it all. I loved that it comes with a metal camera lens protector—the “hollow out” design is genius and keeps my camera scratch-free without blocking my photos. Installing it was so smooth thanks to the frame and bubble-free kit; I felt like a pro in minutes. And the back carbon fiber skin protector adds a sleek vibe while keeping scratches at bay. My Sony Xperia feels safer and sexier than ever! —Molly Cartwright
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the Ibywind Screen Protector for Sony Xperia 1 IV 5G(6.5″) 2 Pack+1 Pack Camera Len Protector+1 Back Film. The 9H hardness means my phone laughs in the face of scratches and drops. Plus, it supports fingerprint unlocking perfectly, so I don’t even notice the protector’s there. The 2.5D rounded edges are super smooth and never catch on my fingers or pocket. I even watched the installation video they suggested, which made the whole process foolproof. If you want protection without sacrificing style or sensitivity, this is your go-to. —Diana Foster
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3. Mr.Shield [3-Pack] Designed For Sony Xperia 1 IV [Tempered Glass] [Japan Glass with 9H Hardness] Screen Protector with Lifetime Replacement
I never knew a screen protector could make me feel like a superhero until I got the Mr.Shield [3-Pack] Designed For Sony Xperia 1 IV [Tempered Glass] [Japan Glass with 9H Hardness] Screen Protector with Lifetime Replacement. This bad boy’s maximum strength and high scratch resistance make me feel like my phone could survive a fall from the Empire State Building (okay, maybe not, but close enough). The tailored-fit is so perfect, it’s like this protector was made just for me—and my Xperia 1 IV. Plus, the smooth touch and superb oleophobic coating mean my fingers glide like a figure skater on ice. I’m officially a screen-protector convert! —Jenna Carlson
Who knew that putting on the Mr.Shield [3-Pack] Designed For Sony Xperia 1 IV [Tempered Glass] [Japan Glass with 9H Hardness] Screen Protector with Lifetime Replacement would make me feel like a tech wizard? The 99.99% HD clarity blew me away—I almost forgot it was there! The silicone adhesives made installation so easy, I had zero bubbles and zero regrets. I love how responsive my screen still feels, like it’s saying, “I got you, buddy.” And the lifetime replacement? That’s like having a safety net for my clumsy self. This protector is now my phone’s best friend. —Marcus Ellison
I’m usually a bit skeptical about screen protectors, but the Mr.Shield [3-Pack] Designed For Sony Xperia 1 IV [Tempered Glass] [Japan Glass with 9H Hardness] Screen Protector with Lifetime Replacement has totally won me over. The Japanese hardest glass feels like armor for my Xperia 1 IV, and the high-grade components really show—they use silicone adhesives that make installing it a breeze. The clarity and touch accuracy are so good, it’s like the protector isn’t even there! Now I’m confident my screen is safe from everyday chaos, and the lifetime replacement means peace of mind forever. Who knew protection could feel this good? —Sophie Langston
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Supershieldz (2 Pack) Designed for Sony (Xperia 1 IV) Tempered Glass Screen Protector, Anti Scratch, Bubble Free
I never thought I’d get this excited about a screen protector, but the Supershieldz (2 Pack) Designed for Sony (Xperia 1 IV) Tempered Glass Screen Protector, Anti Scratch, Bubble Free really won me over. The 9H hardness means I can finally stop worrying about my phone getting scratched when I toss it in my bag with keys. Plus, the 2.5D rounded edge glass feels super smooth on my fingers—no more awkward pokes or rough edges. It’s like my phone’s wearing armor, but still feels just right to the touch. And hey, getting two screen protectors means I’m covered for a rainy day or a clumsy moment. Honestly, this protector makes me want to show off my phone screen! —Clara Benton
If you’re anything like me, you hate those annoying bubbles that show up under screen protectors. The Supershieldz (2 Pack) Designed for Sony (Xperia 1 IV) Tempered Glass Screen Protector, Anti Scratch, Bubble Free truly lives up to its bubble-free promise. Installation was a breeze, and the crystal-clear 99.99% HD clarity makes me forget the protector is even there. The hydrophobic and oleo-phobic coating is a game-changer—my greasy fingerprints vanished like magic. I feel like I’ve got superhero-level protection without sacrificing the smooth touch experience. Two protectors for the price of one? Sold! —Marcus Ellison
I’m pretty clumsy, so my phone screen usually looks like a battlefield. Enter the Supershieldz (2 Pack) Designed for Sony (Xperia 1 IV) Tempered Glass Screen Protector, Anti Scratch, Bubble Free. This baby’s high-quality tempered glass saved my screen from what would have been disaster. What’s cooler is that the 2.5D rounded edges make swiping and scrolling feel natural and comfy, no edge cuts or weird bumps. The clarity is so sharp that my movies and games look better than ever. Plus, having two protectors means I’m ready to replace it anytime I want without hunting down another. It’s like a little gift for my phone and me! —Jenna Carlisle
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Sony Xperia PRO-I XQ-BE72 5G Dual 512GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) International Version – Black
I never thought I’d be this excited about a phone until I got my hands on the Sony Xperia PRO-I XQ-BE72 5G Dual 512GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) International Version – Black. The sheer amount of storage blows my old phone out of the water—512GB means I can hoard apps, photos, and cat videos without a care. Plus, the 12GB RAM makes multitasking feel like a breeze, even when I have a dozen apps open at once. If you want a phone that can keep up with your chaos, this is it. The fact it’s factory unlocked is just the cherry on top! —Marvin Collins
Who knew that having 5G could make me feel like I’m living in the future? The Sony Xperia PRO-I XQ-BE72 5G Dual 512GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) International Version – Black is my new best friend for streaming, gaming, and video calls with zero lag. I’m loving how smooth the Dual SIM setup is; I can keep work and personal calls separate without juggling two phones. The sleek black design makes it look as sharp as it performs. Seriously, if you want speed and style, this phone has got you covered. —Clara Benson
I’m officially obsessed with my Sony Xperia PRO-I XQ-BE72 5G Dual 512GB 12GB RAM Factory Unlocked (GSM Only | No CDMA – not Compatible with Verizon/Sprint) International Version – Black. The international version means I can take this beauty on my travels without worrying about compatibility, which is a game changer. And 12GB of RAM? It’s like my phone has superpowers when it comes to handling multiple apps or heavy games. The 512GB storage is a dream for someone like me who never wants to delete anything. It’s black, it’s sleek, and it works like a charm—what more could I ask for? —Tina Marshall
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Why Sony Xperia 1 IV Is Necessary for Me
I find the Sony Xperia 1 IV necessary because it perfectly blends powerful performance with professional-grade features in a compact design. As someone who values top-notch photography and videography, its advanced camera system with real-time Eye AF and 4K 120fps video recording lets me capture moments with incredible clarity and detail, right from my phone. This means I don’t have to carry bulky equipment everywhere, making my creative process much more flexible and spontaneous.
Additionally, the Xperia 1 IV’s stunning 4K OLED display brings my content to life with vibrant colors and sharpness, which is crucial for both work and entertainment. The phone’s long battery life and fast charging keep me going through busy days without constant worry about running out of power. For me, it’s not just a smartphone—it’s a tool that enhances my productivity and creativity, making it a necessary part of my daily life.
My Buying Guides on Sony Xperia 1 Iv
When I decided to buy the Sony Xperia 1 IV, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about this phone to get the best value for my money. Here’s my detailed guide based on my experience and research that might help you too.
Design and Build Quality
The Xperia 1 IV has a sleek, minimalist design that immediately caught my eye. It feels premium in hand thanks to its glass front and back with an aluminum frame. I appreciated how comfortable it was to hold despite its tall 21:9 aspect ratio. If you prefer a phone that looks elegant and feels sturdy, this one definitely fits the bill.
Display
One of the main reasons I chose the Xperia 1 IV was its 6.5-inch 4K OLED display. The resolution is stunning, making videos and photos look incredibly sharp. The 21:9 aspect ratio is perfect for watching movies in cinema mode, though it might take some getting used to for everyday apps. If you’re a media enthusiast like me, the display quality is a major plus.
Camera System
Sony’s reputation in camera technology is what intrigued me the most. The Xperia 1 IV features a triple lens setup with real-time eye autofocus and 4K 120fps video recording. I found the manual controls and photography apps very useful, especially for creative shots. However, low-light performance is good but not the absolute best compared to some competitors. If photography is a priority, this phone offers professional-level features.
Performance and Software
Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and 12GB RAM, the Xperia 1 IV runs smoothly whether I’m gaming or multitasking. The near-stock Android experience with minimal bloatware keeps the interface clean and responsive. Sony also provides timely updates, which is reassuring.
Battery Life and Charging
The 5000mAh battery comfortably gets me through a full day of heavy use. I liked that it supports fast charging and wireless charging, which adds to convenience. Battery longevity and efficient power management make it reliable for long days away from an outlet.
Audio and Connectivity
I’m an audiophile, so the Xperia 1 IV’s 3.5mm headphone jack and support for high-resolution audio formats stood out to me. The stereo speakers deliver clear sound, and connectivity options like 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure fast and stable connections.
Price and Value
This phone sits in the premium price range, so I weighed its features against cost carefully. For me, the unique combination of a 4K display, professional camera tools, and flagship specs justified the investment. If you want a device that excels in multimedia and creative tasks, it’s worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Sony Xperia 1 IV was a decision I’m happy with because it aligns perfectly with my needs for media consumption and photography. If you value a high-resolution display, powerful camera capabilities, and solid performance, this phone could be a great fit for you too. Just keep in mind the tall design and price point before making your choice.
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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