Sony Xperia 10 VIII Review: Strong Budget Option for AV Enthusiasts

Key strengths include a vibrant OLED display, delivering rich color and cinematic depth, and clear audio playback via headphones. However, some weaknesses are noted; headphone audio could benefit from more dynamic range, the operating system lacks some advanced features, and the plastic housing tends to attract fingerprints.

This model continues Sony’s tradition of providing budget-friendly devices loaded with AV features. Competing primarily against other mid-range smartphones, it remains an appealing choice for consumers seeking quality without a premium price tag. In comparison to higher-priced competitors such as the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Apple iPhone 17 Pro, which retail for much higher, the Xperia 10 VIII’s affordability stands out.

Constructed mostly from plastic, the Xperia 10 VIII sports a refined design with a horizontal camera bar and comfortable button placement, including a welcoming headphone jack—a rarity in modern smartphones. Its display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, providing decent scratch and crack resistance.

The device features a 6.1-inch Full HD+ OLED screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an aspect ratio of 19.5:9. Sony has reportedly enhanced brightness by 50%, aiding visibility in bright conditions. The phone supports HDR video playback, albeit only in the standard HDR10 format.

Equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of expandable storage, the Xperia 10 VIII runs on Android 16 with a simplified interface. However, users may notice the absence of specific features found in rival operating systems.

The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, a 13MP ultrawide camera, and an 8MP front camera, which perform adequately despite being outperformed by flagship models.

During testing, the Xperia 10 VIII’s display impressed with its brightness and clarity when streaming content from platforms like HBO Max and Prime Video. It delivered a solid performance, particularly with well-shot films, showcasing impressive detail and color balance.

Audio performance is another strong suit, with the phone producing clean and organized sound, despite a slight lack in dynamic impact. The inclusion of a headphone jack further enhances its appeal for audiophiles. The front-firing stereo speakers are improved over previous models and provide a satisfactory listening experience for casual viewing.

Overall, the Sony Xperia 10 VIII is a commendable choice for budget-conscious audio-visual enthusiasts, pairing quality features with affordability, making it a strong competitor in the smartphone market.