HTC Velocity 4G vs. Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S

Attribute	HTC Velocity 4G	Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S
Brand	HTC	Sony Ericsson
Model	Velocity 4G	Xperia Arc S
Network	4G	3G
Operating System	Android	Android
Processor	Dual-core 1.5 GHz Scorpion	Single-core 1.4 GHz Scorpion
RAM	1 GB	512 MB
Internal Storage	16 GB	1 GB
Display Size	4.5 inches	4.2 inches
Resolution	540 x 960 pixels	480 x 854 pixels
Camera	8 MP	8 MP
Battery Capacity	1620 mAh	1500 mAh

Design and Display

The HTC Velocity 4G features a sleek and modern design with a solid build quality. It has a 4.5-inch Super LCD display with a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. On the other hand, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S boasts a unique curved design that fits comfortably in the hand. It sports a 4.2-inch LED-backlit LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels, providing good clarity and brightness.

Both devices have their own distinct design elements, with the HTC Velocity 4G focusing on a more minimalist and industrial look, while the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S stands out with its curved back and slim profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the HTC Velocity 4G is powered by a dual-core 1.5 GHz Scorpion processor, coupled with 1 GB of RAM. It offers smooth multitasking and handles demanding tasks with ease. The device also supports 4G LTE connectivity, allowing for faster download and browsing speeds.

On the other hand, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S is equipped with a single-core 1.4 GHz Scorpion processor and 512 MB of RAM. While it may not match the raw power of the HTC Velocity 4G, it still delivers a decent performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming.

In terms of storage, both devices offer 16 GB of internal storage, which should be sufficient for most users. However, the HTC Velocity 4G also includes a microSD card slot, allowing for expandable storage of up to 32 GB, giving it an edge in terms of flexibility.

Camera Capabilities

The HTC Velocity 4G features an 8-megapixel rear camera with autofocus and dual-LED flash. It captures detailed and vibrant photos, even in low-light conditions. The device also supports 1080p video recording, allowing for high-quality videos.

On the other hand, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S boasts a 8-megapixel rear camera with autofocus and LED flash. It produces sharp and well-balanced images, with good color reproduction. The device also supports 720p video recording, which is still of decent quality.

Both devices also include front-facing cameras, with the HTC Velocity 4G offering a 1.3-megapixel camera and the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S featuring a VGA camera. These front-facing cameras are suitable for video calls and selfies, but don't expect exceptional image quality.

Software and User Interface

The HTC Velocity 4G runs on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, with HTC's Sense UI overlay. This provides a visually appealing and intuitive user interface, with various customization options. The device also includes HTC's proprietary apps and features, such as HTC Watch for video streaming and HTC Hub for accessing additional content.

On the other hand, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S runs on Android 2.3 Gingerbread, with Sony's custom UI. While it may not be as visually striking as HTC's Sense UI, it still offers a smooth and user-friendly experience. The device also includes Sony's own apps and features, such as Timescape for social media integration and Sony Entertainment Network for accessing multimedia content.

It's worth noting that both devices are not upgradable to the latest versions of Android, which may be a drawback for users who prefer to have the latest software features and security updates.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The HTC Velocity 4G is equipped with a 1620 mAh battery, which provides a decent amount of usage time. However, due to the power-hungry nature of 4G connectivity, the battery life may be slightly shorter compared to devices without 4G support.

Similarly, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S features a 1500 mAh battery, which should last through a full day of moderate usage. However, it's important to note that battery life can vary depending on individual usage patterns and settings.

In terms of connectivity, both devices offer Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS capabilities. The HTC Velocity 4G also includes NFC (Near Field Communication) support, allowing for convenient wireless data transfer and mobile payments. The Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S, however, lacks NFC functionality.

Conclusion

Overall, both the HTC Velocity 4G and Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S have their own strengths and weaknesses. The HTC Velocity 4G excels in terms of performance, display quality, and expandable storage, making it a great choice for power users and multimedia enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S offers a unique design, good camera capabilities, and a user-friendly interface, making it a solid option for those who prioritize style and ease of use.

Ultimately, the decision between the two devices will depend on individual preferences and priorities. It's important to consider factors such as design, performance, camera capabilities, software features, and connectivity options when making a choice. Both the HTC Velocity 4G and Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S are capable smartphones that can provide a satisfying user experience.