The Sony Xperia 1 V stands out as Sony’s flagship smartphone from 2023 and still feels fresh in 2025, especially for fans of cinematic displays and pro-level photography. It carries on the Xperia tradition of large, sharp screens and powerful hardware, while adding new tricks for creatives, filmmakers, and anyone craving a unique Android experience.
Key features:
- Release Date: May 2023
- Display: 6.5-inch 4K OLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Camera: Triple rear cameras with 52MP Exmor T main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto with continuous optical zoom
- Operating System: Ships with Android 13
- Build: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (front and back) with aluminium frame
- Connectivity: 5G compatible for fast mobile networking, latest Wi-Fi 6E support
- Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack and stereo speakers (a rare find these days!)
Who is this for?
The Sony Xperia 1 V is ideal for content creators, filmmakers, and photography lovers who want more manual control and advanced creative features than you’ll typically find on mainstream smartphones. It’s just right for those who prefer a taller display, value physical headphone jacks, or want to shoot cinema-style videos straight from their phone. If you’re deciding between Android flagships, the Xperia 1 V’s pro-level tools set it apart from options like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or Google Pixel 8 Pro, but be prepared for software that leans more ‘professional’ than ‘plug-and-play’.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros |
Cons |
| 4K OLED display with 21:9 aspect ratio for cinematic viewing. |
Display may feel narrow and tall for typical smartphone usage. |
| Pro camera features, including real-time eye autofocus and RAW shooting. |
Camera app interface is complex for casual users. |
| Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 delivers reliable flagship performance. |
Software updates may lag behind Google or Samsung rivals. |
| Headphone jack and microSD slot—unusual for modern flagships. |
Speakers are solid, but trail the best in the market. |
Why refurbished?
Choosing a refurbished Sony Xperia 1 V means giving top-quality tech a second life, keeping electronics out of the landfill (and giving your wallet a breather). Each pre-owned device on Back Market goes through tough checks and quality controls to make sure it lives up to expectations. Find out about our rigorous quality standards here.