Sony Xperia Z3v

The Xperia Z3 is a classic Sony smartphone. It follows the company's signature design aesthetic and doesn't break the mold in any way. If you're a Sony fan and you want an Xperia, this is a fantastic choice and is in league with a number of incredible...

8.5 While with some differences, if you were hoping to get your hands on the Xperia Z3 in the US at a subsidized rate, the Sony Xperia Z3v, available exclusively from Verizon Wireless, may be your best...

Sony's variant on the Xperia Z3 is nearly the same excellent overall phone on Verizon, albeit with a slightly dated external...

The Sony Xperia Z3v is a stunning glass sandwich, packed with high-end features that are sure to please — so long as you’re okay with ignoring all the Verizon carrier bloatware.

Really, the best way to sum up the Xperia Z3v may be this: It's good to see Sony back on U.S. carriers. But it's a shame Verizon didn't go with the best phone Sony has to offer, even if it really only missed in superficial ways.

It sports the same design as the Z2, but that's not a bad thing, as it is still a premium glass phone with a waterproof body, although it definitely isn't the most compact one out there. Its screen is also similar to the one of the Z2 instead of the Z3, but that's not necessary a bad thing, as it is more accurate, although not as bright. The processor and the camera are the updated ones that the Z3 offers, so it really is a mix between the Z2 and the Z3. Needless to say, Verizon customers should be pleased to know that a high-end Sony phone is going to be a part of the carrier's lineup – where it’ll sport a 2-year on-contract price of $199.99.

As any good manufacturer does, Sony once again delivers their finest work of smartphone art in the Xperia Z3v. Each successor to the Z becomes better - and bigger. Now we've got to see about the Z3 Compact to get the slightly more pocketable experience.

If you're invested in the PlayStation and other Sony services, the Z3v is a no-brainer. If you're not, it's still a competitive Android smartphone that offers a little something different. Those with an eye for high-end smartphones would do well to consider the Sony Xperia Z3v. It's Sony's best yet.