Sony Xperia 5 II

The Sony Xperia 5 II, released in October 2020, is a compact flagship that refines the best elements of its larger sibling, the Xperia 1 II, into a more pocketable form factor. Priced at $949/£799 at launch, it targets multimedia enthusiasts, gamers, and photographers with its 21:9 cinematic display, pro-grade camera features, and a 120Hz refresh rate—a first for Sony at the time. Powered by the Snapdragon 865, it offers flagship performance with a focus on audio-visual excellence, including a 3.5mm headphone jack and advanced camera apps like Photo Pro and Cinema Pro. While it lacks wireless charging and 5G support in the US, the Xperia 5 II earned praise for its sleek design and versatile feature set. In 2025, with newer Xperia models available, this device still holds appeal for those seeking a compact, media-focused phone at a potentially discounted price.

The Sony Xperia 5 II remains a compelling choice for multimedia enthusiasts in 2025, especially if available at a reduced price. Its 120Hz FHD+ display, compact form factor, and pro-grade camera features make it a standout for gamers, photographers, and cinephiles. The return of the 3.5mm headphone jack and excellent audio capabilities further enhance its appeal for audiophiles. However, the lack of wireless charging and 5G support in the US, combined with a slippery design and complex camera apps, make it less competitive against newer flagships like the Xperia 5 V or rivals from Samsung and Google. For Sony loyalists or those who prioritize a compact phone with cinematic features, the Xperia 5 II is still a solid pick, but its successors likely offer more modern features for a similar price in 2025.