The lowest ever price (was £249)!
Waterproof.
To buy without a mandatory top-up:
There is a 'Keep Existing SIM' option at the bottom of the 'Bundles' page, which allows you to purchase a PAYG phone without a top-up. Unfortunately Vodafone now hides this button a few seconds after the page has loaded. You have to be quick to click the button, if you miss it simply hit F5 or the 'Refresh' button on your browser to reload the 'Bundles' page and try again.
- chancooluk
Not available to buy instore.
jetskizzz
Another way to "catch" the keep existing sim button is to use Firefox, click "View - Page Style - No Style" and the text page appears. The button doesn't disappear. Ctrl-F to search for "Keep" and job done. I'm sure other browsers may have this feature, but I have checked this in Firefox on a Mac and it works.
Direct link if someone needs for "Keep your existing Vodafone SIM" option - http://shop.vodafone.co.uk/shop/pricePlans/plansHome.jsp?planContractType=monthly&_DARGS=/shop/pricePlans/freeBee/listing/freeBeeListContent.jsp_AF&_dynSessConf=-2798153241376315336&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successParams=keepcurrentSim%3Dtrue&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successParams=+&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorParams=&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorCode=+&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.currentCommerceID=+&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorParams=+&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorCode=shppfl&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successCode=shpppex&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successCode=+&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.KeepCurrentSIM=+&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.KeepCurrentSIM=&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.currentCommerceID=ci6094002633
- funkies1
I've had this phone for a year or so, it's great. Battery life is fantastic, the noise cancelling built in is good and it's easy to text one handed.
On the other hand the camera is a bit ropey. Very hit or miss in anything other than perfect lighting which is frustrating. Also the waterproof flap thing fell off which has also happened to a couple of other people I know.
On balance I think I love it mostly because it's so practical. It's small, fairly robust (except for the back glass) and never dies on me.
Damn... since writing this my screen has peeled off and the whole phone has given up on me. Oh well, still loved it. RIP Z3 Compact
tyr to ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 163#5
£12 for unlock :disappointed:
Latest comments (332)
johnraggett
19 Jul 16#332
Yeah, they done a few tests in the shop, and looking online looks like it's a common fault.
morgie
18 Jul 16#331
Definitely hardware? Not permissions? Have you tried a different camera app?
johnraggett
18 Jul 16#330
The camera on mine has stopped working, just a black screen, so it's in to be fixed, no one else had this issue?
ronaldmacdonald
17 Jun 161#329
And unlocked today. Simples
ronaldmacdonald
16 Jun 16#328
Delivered today 3 days
carwacster
16 Jun 16#327
Site saying delivery 1-2 weeks
tyr
16 Jun 161#326
No you will need any sim but not a Vodafone one.
Codo
16 Jun 16#325
Do I need a vodaphone sim to get the phone unlocked?
ronaldmacdonald
16 Jun 16#324
Not sure why this is expired, phone being delivered today so delivery within 3 days still.
ronaldmacdonald
14 Jun 161#323
Can't remember without trawling my emails, but I think I mentioned them in one of the early posts. Unlockdog? They unlocked it within a day. I think there was cheaper on fleabay but some folks were not having much luck so Ill stick with what worked before.
morgie
14 Jun 16#322
Why not :smile:
Where did you use to unlock?
ronaldmacdonald
14 Jun 16#321
I must be mad but I have ordered another one for the misses. For this to be painless and easy DO NOT MAKE CONTACT WITH VODAPHONE. For anything. That's the golden rule. Follow this and it really is an astonishing deal.
So this time I know now to go straight to third party unlock, flash, and jobs a good un. Simples.
DirtyQwerty
30 May 16#320
I've had terrible experiences with their customer service in the past. My advice is to get their VodafoneUKHelp team to DM you on twitter (if you use twitter), make sure they know how annoyed you are and ask them to call you. They are way more helpful than the customer service line and got my problem sorted straight away.
QSECOFR
30 May 16#319
Still awaiting a refund and really going around the houses with this.
I was originally told as I had it collected in store I had to return the phone via the store.
Went to the store to be told they can't do it and it needs to be online. they thankfully arranged a returns bag to be shipped to me.
Returned the phone on Tuesday and was advised it was received Wednesday and someone will be in touch regarding the refund.
Asked for an update Thursday and was told someone will be in touch 24-48 hours.
Still no contact so I email the social team who are now telling me they never sent out a returns bag due to "technical issues".
Starting to get impatient now and may investigate a section 75 claim instead as their customer services are not giving me any faith in them!
QSECOFR
23 May 16#318
Same here although I've given up and I'm going to return the phone. Having a bit of a nightmare with the vodafone process to return it but hopefully it'll get sorted
dwvl
23 May 16#317
Thanks for the suggestion. No go for me though, because I don't have a "Vodafone Services" app because I'm not on Vodafone. I have a "My Services" app, which seems to be the T-mobile equivalent, which has no option to "Deactivate".
Yes, I am. No, I don't know how to stop them :disappointed:
QSECOFR
21 May 16#314
anyone else getting the welcome to vodafone alerts popping up all the time? any ideas how to stop them?
dwvl
18 May 16#313
Actually, the codes did arrive yesterday evening, and worked fine.
I'm not going to say who the eBay seller was, because I don't want to give the unfair impression that they may be worse than any other. The listing did say that codes may take up to 7 working days, and in the event they arrived after 5 working days. Unlock codes for Sony on Vodafone just seem to take a long time, for reasons I don't understand.
voodoo123uk
17 May 16#312
everytime I get to express checkout I get "We're working hard to fix the issue, so please try again later".
voodoo123uk
17 May 16#311
wont let me check out, wont load pages, keeps asking for the security number that they text you but when I enter it it doesn't work grrrrr
morgie
17 May 16#310
No, what's the issue?
voodoo123uk
17 May 16#309
has any body else found the Vodafone website utterly useless for ordering?
Bendown
17 May 16#308
Mines ready to collect, really dont want to wait days for an unlock code though. Who did you use?
morgie
17 May 16#307
Ordered a black one on Sunday, arrived to home today.
dwvl
17 May 16#306
I don't know why this shows as expired - it looks like it's still live for me.
I ordered these for my family last week, and they were delivered a couple of days later. I'm still waiting (six days so far) for the unlock codes from one of the eBay sellers though :disappointed:
Kenneth131
16 May 16#305
did you contract them and if so did they give any options? I just ordered the black on Thursday 12/5/16 and sat as we have placed your order. past experience with Vodafone worries me in that it may not turn up at all. stated 2-4 working days so will allow up until Tuesday if its not in I'll jack it in and stump up for a z5c or see if one plus have anything small this time round. Don't mind waiting but the abysmal deliver service and order update from Vodafone leaves a lot to be desired when compared to their competitors. can't knock their prices though, they must know half the stock is not staying on their network and you would think they would recognise its due to poor service and try and improve in those areas, hey ho.
Strange. I ordered on a Sunday and it was delivered on the Tuesday. I ordered the black model though. Noticed that the delivery for the white model was longer.
nascent
15 May 16#296
3 weeks and still no delivery.
morgie
15 May 16#295
UPDATE - for details of how to get it working for £149 and 'keep existing SIM' in Google Chrome see post #300
The option shows in FireFox using the method posted in the OP, however on selecting it the next page isn't loading for me so you can't seem to progress, even when switching the style back or trying in a new window. Any thoughts?
morgie
15 May 161#294
UPDATE - for details of how to get it working for £149 and 'keep existing SIM' in Google Chrome see post #300
Do people think the keep existing SIM option is still available? I'm on a Chromebook at the moment and can't see it in a refresh of the page. Will try in FireFox later. Chatting with Vodafone online they're saying they removed the option a couple of weeks ago(?)
creatioexnihilo
15 May 16#293
need a new phone should i get Sony xperix Z3,lg g3,Samsung s5
lmcshera
13 May 161#292
The nicest cover imo is the Sony SCR26. Smart locking & it has a transparent window showing part of the screen. It is no longer as heart stoppingly expensive as it used to be.
PulseTurbo
12 May 16#291
Anyone else?
rcrm4444
11 May 16#290
No you can not.
Opinions may differ.... My wife and 20 year old son commented how good it looked. But hayho
johnraggett
11 May 16#289
Obviously :neutral_face:
tyr
11 May 161#288
No you can not as this is phone specific based on phone IMEI
jco83
11 May 16#287
:confused:
johnraggett
11 May 16#286
Yes of course
johnraggett
11 May 161#285
Great review, pretty much spot on!
johnraggett
11 May 161#284
That's not pretty!!
pcangeldust
10 May 16#283
Anyone use the Xperia services like locate your phone, worth it?
I got one of these...http://www.mobilefun.co.uk/encase-leather-style-sony-xperia-z3-compact-wallet-case-brown-p48982.htm
OK so far.
swaglar
10 May 16#280
Hi all,
Just got one using "keep own sim" ... anyone now recommend a good quality case ?
Thanks in advance
swaglar
10 May 16#279
Hi all,
Just got one using "keep own sim" ... anyone now recommend a good quality case ?
Thanks in advance
ficosaneil
9 May 16#278
Had mine a week or 2 now, It's really hard to criticise it. it's a bit like a Ford Focus, does everything well but won't turn any heads. So glad I went back to this size of phone.
johnraggett
9 May 16#277
I've purchased a cheap magnetic charger, see how I get on with that.
carwacster
9 May 16#275
Hows does this compare to the previous Vodafone great deal on the LG G4 which i managed to purchase. I know the battery on the Sony is far superior. What about the camera from someone who has owned both.
jazzuk777 to carwacster
9 May 16#276
There's plenty of reviews out there on both. I haven't owned either but generally the Sony camera seem a bit hit and miss in results. You do get some good even great shots but also some frustrating ones. From memory the G4 is considered the best camera of its generation, though I think the latest Samsung ones are supposed to shade it now.
sergiuzahari
8 May 16#274
can I use the code on 2 phones?
crossway
8 May 16#272
Picked mine up in the week, came to apply a screen protector yesterday and noticed a very tiny silver white square on the screen, only see it at certain angles. Tried a pixel repair app thinking that was it but still there, I've Googled and think possibly something under original glass :-S I've had it unlocked through eBay now though. Any suggestions please? :-)
pcangeldust to crossway
8 May 16#273
live with it :-D
DirtyQwerty
7 May 16#271
Is anyone able to get the 'Keep Existing Sim' option to come up? I have tried the Firefox trick but it just sends me to a dead link.
Edit: never mind, got it to work.
mrspydey
6 May 161#270
yeah £230 I got it for, maybe wait a bit I was told on their main website there will be offers in 2 weeks time
mrspydey
4 May 16#260
was thinking to go for it but glad i went for honor 7 :smiley:
fredsaid to mrspydey
6 May 16#269
But are they not £100 more ???
They do look smart but out of my price I think !
hukduserr
4 May 16#254
is this in store too?
tyr to hukduserr
4 May 16#255
have not seen it in stores...
fredsaid to hukduserr
6 May 16#268
Yes, I went in Vodafone store on Tuesday, but they quote £159, so I mentioned this to the staff & was told it includes £10 top up which is compulsory in the store !
rich2086
4 May 16#266
Thank you, been looking at this phone for a while since my 4 year old HTC One X is slowing down (what a trooper) £150 is a lot cheaper than what I was looking at paying last year.
PulseTurbo to rich2086
5 May 16#267
Exactly what I replaced my HTC One X with. It was hard to find a replacement, but this suits me perfectly.
coolcat21
4 May 16#265
thank you, I think - I'm not really sure what you've just said :confused: But I'll google it & try it, I've loved the phone so far & not had any problems so would love to keep using it. The Z5c does have a far better camera though......
rawbiz
4 May 16#264
By far the best price ! Excellent find , and fantastic phone !
634miyamoto
4 May 16#263
Good deal but... I hate those "flaps" that cover the slots, especially the usb port.
I use to own the Xperia Z ultra which had similar flap arrangements. My device went back for repair three times because the rubber seal on the flap kept falling apart. The device was sent back to expansys for a refund (which they eventually offered after numerous emails and a legal threat)
flmdu
3 May 16#247
I also bought a code from "justunlockcode" and mine hasn't worked either. It was 16 digits. I've just emailed, so hopefully will hear something back soon.
flmdu to flmdu
4 May 16#262
A few days before getting the unlock code I had installed the Sony Concept software mentioned earlier in this thread. It looks like that was the problem with the sim unlock code - on the offchance I tried reverting to the original software and the code from "justunlockcode" worked perfectly. I wouldn't have expected that to have anything to do with it, so was a surprise.
jazzuk777
4 May 16#261
I'd think there's a good chance you'd fix that with various options, including a cache partition wipe (google your version of Moto G to find out how as it does differ between Android versions)
iDealYou
4 May 16#253
Anyone knows if the bootloader is locked?
Cheers.
ronaldmacdonald to iDealYou
4 May 161#259
The boatloader is locked sadly
coolcat21
4 May 16#258
heat :smile: daughter loves her phone so I've been looking for a cheap deal as my moto g has started to freeze :neutral_face:
johnraggett
24 Apr 162#15
loved this phone, until I smashed the screen. My only issue was the charging port cover breaking
lmcshera to johnraggett
4 May 16#257
This. The charging port cover will dismantle itself over time. Fine if you can send it back under warranty & can manage without. The magnetic chargers are fiddly as hell to boot
PulseTurbo
4 May 16#256
Does anyone have a similar issue to mine? When I very first unlock the screen, start using it, about 10 seconds later, the screen suddenly goes up to full brightness. It does this every time, and it's quite annoying.
hukduserr
4 May 16#252
do i get 20% discount as NHS staff?
captainbeaky
4 May 16#251
I've been trying to cancel my order with Vodafone without much success. It's not fun.
pcangeldust
4 May 16#250
I received my code from justunlockcode, didn't took about a day but I haven't tested it yet, no nano-sim :disappointed:
Doubt there will be a problem.
B1000
4 May 161#249
I got the response from justunlockcode late last night - they sent me a working code and it unlocked successfully. So hope you guys can get a response to resolve your codes.
@ficosaneil: Not your fault mate! It's always good to see recommendations from HUKD members.
rainbowwheel
3 May 16#248
Bought the unlock code from "justunlockcode" on Saturday, just received the code, and it worked fine.
ficosaneil
3 May 16#246
Sorry guys, I feel terrible :disappointed:
It does say something like 1-7 days for the code, I must have just got in before the BH weekend or something.
B1000
3 May 16#245
I also bought from them based on ficosaneil's comment. I ordered on Friday so I don't expect to receive the code until later this week. I haven't heard anything from them as of yet, but will update this if I get a working or bad code.
ficosaneil
3 May 16#244
yeah, mine was a 16 digit numerical code.
JA89
2 May 161#243
Sorry, I didn't understand this part. You said Vodafone gave you the code for free after you contacted them because? :smiley:
rcrm4444
2 May 16#242
No it was all numbers and more of them. EBay chap has still not replied! Will give him till tomorrow.
ficosaneil
2 May 16#241
all's well that ends well then! Was it similar to the code from eBay? Just wondering if it was maybe a typo from the seller.
rcrm4444
2 May 16#240
I blame you lol... However I contacted Vodafone and because I had gone the no sim they gave me the code!
JA89
2 May 16#239
Why does the deal say expired here? It's still available right? O.o
rcrm4444
2 May 161#237
[quote=rcrm4444][quote=ficosaneil] fyi, I bought unlock code from "justunlockcode" on ebay last night for £12.45 and they've just emailed me the code.
The code he sent did not work!!! I have emailed him twice with no reply.... Be warned
ficosaneil to rcrm4444
2 May 16#238
Thats a shame, I couldn't fault the service at all.
johnraggett
1 May 16#236
Just treated myself for my birthday, ordered to store for the slight hope of a free unlock code, we can live in hope!!
jukester
30 Apr 161#233
I had mine delivered to store. When collecting I asked whether I really had to wait 30 days for unlock. The s/a - chap called Joe - said give me a minute I will see if I can find an unlock code for you. Walked out with phone and print out with unlock code - for free. Unlocked Xperia for £149 - very happy!!
pcangeldust to jukester
1 May 16#235
Lucky you
cantonbean
1 May 16#234
Really nice handset. I'm sending mine back as faulty and signed up to S7 Edge contact on Friday. Big thing for me was waterproof vs other phones but now have the Edge I can't see me using most of my other phones.
B1000
30 Apr 16#232
Phone arrived last Thursday. I just received OTA update to MM :smiley: Very happy with the phone so far. Although I still have Vodafone calling my house number, I believe they are trying to sell me a SIM deal as I used the 'keep existing sim' trick :disappointed:
BTW if you want to test your phone, use the hidden diagnostics in the dialer - *#*#7378423#*#*. It's better than the diagnostics in the settings menu, and you don't have to share your phoneID with Sony to do it.
ronaldmacdonald
30 Apr 16#231
Yeah the unlock codes for these are v quick through third parties compared to the shocking timeframes dictated by voda. Seems odd they are throwing a simple stream away like that, then again - most enlightened operators do it for free
ficosaneil
30 Apr 16#230
it does say in the post you quoted :smiley: ordered on the evening, arrived lunchtime next day.
Finally ordered....checkout is desperate. Worked on Internet Explorer (!) after several bajillion attempts
ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#212
fyi, I bought unlock code from "justunlockcode" on ebay last night for £12.45 and they've just emailed me the code. Will try it later....
pcangeldust to ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#215
n1 ordered, no rush as I don't have a nano sim anyway.
ronaldmacdonald to ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#218
Good price and quick.
rcrm4444 to ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#226
How long did it take for the code to arrive? .... its saying 3-6 days???
rcrm4444
29 Apr 16#225
6.0.1 going the eBay unlock code way.
pcangeldust
29 Apr 16#224
stock rom?
ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#222
Mine just updated to Marshmallow 6.0.1
rcrm4444 to ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#223
Me too
ronaldmacdonald
29 Apr 16#221
Great, now blast that nasty voda bloat into orbit and get a stock firmware and rejoice at being free from the devils spawn that are vodascrote
ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#220
yes, code worked no problems
cantonbean
29 Apr 16#219
Just for reference the Vodafone store are useless. They couldn't do an exchange and won't do a refund as bought online. I've just been on hold for 40 minutes and still no answer!
DonkeyKonk
28 Apr 16#189
Anyone got Marshmallow OTA update in the UK yet ? I thought it was due around now.
ronaldmacdonald to DonkeyKonk
28 Apr 16#200
Don't know about OTA, plugged into the laptop and marshmallow update came up
cantonbean to DonkeyKonk
29 Apr 16#217
Because this has carrier bloat on it there was a delay. However on getting my faulty one it update to MM straight away in staged updates so it has been released. It will be being pushed in batches so check once a day then leave as no point keep trying. In fact that often causes a problem. Mine was OTA but might be worth using Sony software to connect it and see too as other poster suggested.
cantonbean
29 Apr 16#216
black order to collect. not sure if gave me that one or another one so will take back later and either swap or refund.
cantonbean
29 Apr 16#213
Well annoyed. I picked mine up this morning. Installed all updates. Now found I've got one of the faulty ones where the SIM card cover won't stay shut! Back to the shop it goes...tried everything but just keeps popping open! I bought this for the waterproofing!
JA89 to cantonbean
29 Apr 16#214
Sorry to hear :disappointed: can I ask, did you buy it in store or did you order online to deliver to store where you picked it up?
petesaysblimey
29 Apr 16#210
heat added. i bought this at £400+ new and was very pleased with the form factor pre-iphone 5SE, camera and waterproofing. for £150 this is brilliant.
with a price drop from £400 to £150 within 6 months, i'm really gutted as you can imagine. It puts me off ever buying an android/Sony phone as they don't hold their value, and as much as i want them to be, the OS and apps just aren't as clean and intuitive as iOS.
ronaldmacdonald to petesaysblimey
29 Apr 16#211
Yer, I got the SE after being on the 6splus. I'm using that as my everyday phone and this Sony as my 'foreign trip' phone. iOS has the android beat imo. So many apps on the android.
captainbeaky
29 Apr 16#209
I was quoted £38 from a high street phone shop to unlock. Ouch. Ordered on Sunday but no sign of dispatch - perhaps I should have gone for a black one.
ficosaneil
29 Apr 16#208
Got mine all setup last night, really impressed with how slick and smooth everything is (coming from Huawei P8).
Just waiting for the unlock code now...
ronaldmacdonald
29 Apr 16#207
That's rather quiet funny, obviously not at the time. Make no mistake, all operators have their faults but voda go the extra mile. I would never use them simply because their coverage for me is terrible. They are normally cheap for contracts - but I could not imagine the hell of being in a contract with these clowns. They seem to have policy that is out of touch with the rest of the modern age as well which is somewhat grating, i,e unlock only after 30 days because of 'fraud' reasons. Right-on. Just say we want a months use of you rather than come up with bull like this. I got o2 to unlock same day I had the phone delivered. For free. And believe me o2 can muck up with the best of em.
trionkidnapper
29 Apr 16#206
Not voting either way. However, I will add that recently I tried to buy a Vodafone PAYG phone and had a complete disaster from start to finish.
Annoyed me so much I spent a lunch time having a rant one day: Open Rant At Vodafone
Their terrible customer service and ordering systems means I wouldn't go near them again for a long time.
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 161#205
All the info you need here, needed to download 2 bits of software. Dead easy. Clicky
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#203
...and now flashed with stock rom.
No. More. Bloat. No. More voda.
rcrm4444 to ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#204
Have you any links on how to do it?
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#202
Yer, more the 30 days - a bit retarded compared to other operators really. Still - got it unlocked in less than a day. There loss.
rcrm4444
28 Apr 16#201
So you are upset at Vadascrots charging you £20 to unlock but not fussed over the £150 cost of the phone??? Lol
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#199
Probably, but I'm not to fussed about a warranty on £150 phone. I just tried to update the rom but it's whinging about a locked boatloader now. Voda really are the pits. Still, plan b....
ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#195
whats the other slot and bit of paper all about in the sim card section?
ficosaneil to ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#197
To answer my own question, that paper has all of the serial numbers, production dates etc on it.
ronaldmacdonald to ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#198
No idea, ignored it and left it be.
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#194
Yer, I want to flash it with a stock rom now to get rid of the voda bloat - anyone recommend one?
rcrm4444 to ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#196
Will flashing or unlocking have an effect on the Sony warranty?
Got mine today. Nice mobile and good size but very slippy. Case ordered.
ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#193
No vodafone branding on the box or phone so I hoped it might be unlocked... sadly not. Think I'll try my luck with eBay...
ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#191
Got my phone, whats the best method for unlocking then?
ronaldmacdonald to ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#192
Wait 30 days and pay voda £20
Try a fleabay unlocker for around £13
Unlockdog for £16
High street £?
I used unlockdog - done in 17 hours.
JA89
28 Apr 16#188
Anyone found this deal in store too? Or is it online only?
tyr to JA89
28 Apr 16#190
I found just moto E and Huawei p8 lite deals in my local store
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#187
Ok, all unlocked in 17 hours. Thanks vodascrotes, I wont be seeing you in 30 days.
bubbelech
26 Apr 16#148
How come everyone get "fantasitc" battery life and I am only getting a day use out of it?
Am I doing something wrong? Just a casual user with browser, emails, some facebook and messenger?
OrribleHarry to bubbelech
26 Apr 16#152
Depends what you call "casual" user :smile:
There is a menu to show you what's using all the juice.....
m.ad to bubbelech
28 Apr 16#186
Make sure you enable Stamina mode in the Settings > Power Options.
Also, dump the Facebook app. I use Metal instead and find that is much more battery efficient
ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#185
I have a company phone with them but I doubt they'd be so helpful to unlock this, might give it a go though...
jazzyb88
28 Apr 16#184
If you already have a contract with Vodafone, does anyone know if they will allow you to unlock the phone for free?
ficosaneil
28 Apr 16#183
This is a shame, mine should hopefully be delivered today so I'll get my request in ASAP.
OrribleHarry
28 Apr 16#182
Most places are 1-7 days to unlock unfortunately
Brim
28 Apr 16#181
If you are so anti Vodafone, maybe you should have given this deal a miss.
And Vodascrotes. Really? What are you - 11 years old?
ronaldmacdonald
28 Apr 16#180
Yeah, unlockdog , 2-8 days and £16 as opposed to vodascrotes 30 day wait and £20
pcangeldust
28 Apr 16#179
Broke my old phone today, dropped it, screen smashed to bits and now bottom part of phone no longer works. It's the first time I had a phone screen crack on me, my luck finally ran out :disappointed:
On the bright side my Z3C is being delivered tomorrow, need to get it unlocked ASAP.
OrribleHarry
27 Apr 16#178
Don't feed the trolls
ficosaneil
27 Apr 16#177
Unlockdog?
rcrm4444
27 Apr 16#176
Can not see them being that desperate for your £20:p
ronaldmacdonald
27 Apr 16#175
Yes
OrribleHarry
27 Apr 16#174
Is there any need?
ronaldmacdonald
27 Apr 16#173
Suck my [email protected] vodascrotes - unlockdog to the rescue, screw your 30 days/ £20 u don't get another penny from me
Jimbo123
27 Apr 162#169
This website gives just as much misery as it does joy. I bought the Z5compact for twice this price, sickening to think I could have an extra hundred and fifty pounds in my back pocket if I had waited a bit. Naturally I am happy for you guys though, it's a great phone.
ronaldmacdonald to Jimbo123
27 Apr 16#171
Yeah I was literally a day away from doing the same, umhhd and ahhed then this deal popped up. It's just timing with this site - but yeah you can rock up a day late and weep sometimes
rcrm4444 to Jimbo123
27 Apr 16#172
I too was going with the z5 compact but had trouble with my (new) card's. Was quite angry but it's taken this long to sort them and it's saved me £150!
More good news... It's being delivered tomorrow yipeeee
eatmorefish
27 Apr 16#170
I've no idea how many units Sony have sold, but if your research includes browsing the Internet you are bound to come across a Duffus or two who blame anyone but themselves: It was the RAIN that did it, nono, it is SONY'S fault!
We have a few of these Sony Z phones and tablets around the house, and although the flaps can be a fiddle to put back in place they do their job nicely.
Mind you, I've never stuck one in a bucket...yet.:wink:
ronaldmacdonald
27 Apr 16#168
Ughh. Vodaphone want you to wait 30 days before you unlock. Goddam prehistoric mobile operator. I got days to kill. Tick tock
rcrm4444
27 Apr 16#166
ordered on 25th and I'm on stage 2 of 4, according to the Vodafone Tracking site.
"Your order has been accepted. We've placed your order."
They say it will take 1 to 3 working days.... so call back tomorrow.
ficosaneil to rcrm4444
27 Apr 16#167
Same as me, I used their online chat earlier and bloke said it would be delivered by end of Friday.
Same as the other poster, Vodafone really do seem to be completely inept at the very basics.
ronaldmacdonald
27 Apr 16#165
Well fleabay unlocker claims the vodaphone service is kaput right now - so unlocking could be a while...
nascent
27 Apr 16#164
The only contact I've had from vodafone since buying my phone and receiving an order confirmation, is a bunch of phone calls from them I kept missing, I tried to call them back but was told I cna't speak to anyone and to wait for a call. I finally managed to catch one of the calls and the guy told me he saw that I was interested in a z3 comapct and can he help buy one.
I told him I already had an order confirmation number and he told me there's nothing more he can do for me.
It's been many years since I used vodafone (15 I think), and it's saddening to see their customer service hasn't improved since then.
B1000
27 Apr 161#163
I ordered on Sunday and I'm on stage 2 of 4, according to the Vodafone Tracking site.
"Your order has been accepted. We've placed your order."
I know with the Z3 they used DRM keys to limit functionality of the phone, if you tampered too much. Look into it, not sure if it's the same with the Z3 Compact.
ficosaneil
27 Apr 16#162
I asked VF where my order was and they said will be delivered by Friday.
xbox-360-elite
26 Apr 16#161
Any chance you could go into this? Probably savvy enough to follow a guide from XDA and root this thing, but not sure how that can be used to unlock the phone which I planned on doing through eBay.
Also, what's Sony's warranty policy with rooting and custom ROMs? Do you void your warranty if you do unlock your bootloader? Seems too much of a risk if that is the case
Thanks
ronaldmacdonald
26 Apr 16#155
Can anyone recommended an offline maps app - I used nokias here maps on windows, is there anything similar on android - looks like something called garmin navigation is pre-installed
* scrap that - it seems here maps is now on android. happy days
I used Here Maps on my Android for about 2 journeys having seen good things about it then I very quickly uninstalled and reverted to the free NavMii as Here Maps almost literally sent me round in circles (not actually literally as it was actually more like a rectangle)
fiiivvecantonas
26 Apr 16#157
Any advice on how to unlock this via Vodafone (i'd rather keep my warranty),but need to be able to tick"I’ve been using my Pay as you go SIM in my phone for more than 30 days". I've got hold of a new Voda sim and put it in phone,do i really have to wait 30 days?
ronaldmacdonald to fiiivvecantonas
26 Apr 16#159
dunno, couldn't be arsed though. I'm prepared to bunfight the warranty during the first 12 months and tbh on a £150 phone I'm not losing a lot of sleep. Only drag is fleabay unlock can take 12 days...
ronaldmacdonald
26 Apr 16#158
Hmm, thanks will investigate that to see how this compares to here maps
soza
26 Apr 16#154
If you're using the Facebook app then that's a huge battery drain.
Just use Chrome, login to Facebook and allow it to send you notifications. You won't get any of the battery drain and it's not much different from using the app.
Ordered Sunday lunchtime, still showing as ordered but nothing else :disappointed:
JA89
26 Apr 16#149
Does anyone know if this is online only or if it's the same price/deal in store? Much appreciated if anyone can confirm :smiley:
OrribleHarry to JA89
26 Apr 16#151
Not sure but you have option to collect in store
OrribleHarry
26 Apr 16#150
Not in itself but rooting allows unlocking
fiiivvecantonas
26 Apr 162#147
Mine just arrived,ordered it Sunday
K0YS
26 Apr 161#146
I don't think it's *going to great lengths* creating ports that lose their watertightness everytime you open them, ports needed to charge the phone. If they advertise their phones being used in pools, you'd think they would withstand splashes of water, or even rain! (yup, they've broke because of rain too). The only thing they've gone to great lengths with is how to avoid repair. I always wanted a Z phone, but after doing a ton of research I was very disheartened.
makkax1
25 Apr 16#134
Try 'Flashtool64' to unlock this and flash it with a stock ROM. I bought one from Virgin last year and their particular ROM was locked to 3G speed but I wanted to use 4G. Didn't cost a penny and it wasn't hard.
cantonbean to makkax1
26 Apr 16#145
Do you know if flashing the ASOP ROM removes the vodafone lock? That was my plan anyway so save paying for the unlock too.
K0YS
25 Apr 16#130
If your looking to dunk this in to the sink, make sure you do your research. Both variants of the Z3 are terrible with water. I've known a friends one to stopped lighting the screen up after he had a bucket of water splashed on him with phone in hand.
Loads of buyers on forums echo similar stories and also random cracks. Warranty being a pain trying to get those issues repaired.
Agreed. I had 2 z1c's which turned out to not be waterproof, much to my frustration. I still have one and a z3. They are superb phones and this price is a bargain, however don't rely on it staying waterproof.
eatmorefish to K0YS
26 Apr 162#144
Phone manufacturers go to great lengths in order to protect their handsets from accidental splashes and mishaps, yet they are rewarded by idiots putting them in a bucket/bath and then complaining when they don't work. I'm with Sony on this one.
It's a phone, not a rubber duck.
ficosaneil
26 Apr 16#143
Just checked mine, says order accepted. (Stage 2/4).
rcrm4444
25 Apr 16#140
Same for me...
Thanks for your order. We're checking the details of your order and will be in touch shortly with an update.
ronaldmacdonald to rcrm4444
26 Apr 16#141
Ordered very early Sunday, first comm I had was yesterday from the courier.
OrribleHarry to rcrm4444
26 Apr 161#142
Spoke too soon, got an email overnight stating delivery today! Happy days...!
ronaldmacdonald
25 Apr 16#138
Delivery tomorrow now apparently. Ok so finger ready for the fleabay unlock!
OrribleHarry to ronaldmacdonald
25 Apr 16#139
When did you order yours and what? I've not had an order update yet, ordered it for my daughters birthday on Friday, fingers crossed!
54M13
25 Apr 16#137
I do agree, Sony's software, especially the camera app isn't the best it can be. A bit clunky, and in auto mode it's really hit and miss. The fact it gets really hot when recording 4k is also a little concerning, sometimes to the point it resets the phone.
The UI has become nice though, the marshmallow concept beta for the z3 is closer to stock Android than Samsungs, HTCs and LGs offerings.
People still regard the z3 and z3c sonys best Z series smartphones. For this price it's really not a bad buy
jazzuk777
25 Apr 16#136
Yeah well it flipping well ought to be. So should the Z1 on paper and it really. wasn't. My point being, I don't think Sony are very good at getting the most out of the hardware, not sure if it's the bloatware but the two Sony phones I've had were a good advert for buying another make. All their budget phones seen to be crippled by poor storage and at least some of the flagships don't seem that great either. The cameras definitely don't perform as well as they ought to as shown by other posters on this thread. The Z1 was capable of some great photos but often seemed to produce complete clunkers too, it just wasn't reliable. Consistency appears to be the Achilles heel. The fragility mentioned here as well ought to be a warning sign. Who wants a great or even passable phone for 3 months before you have to buy another?
ronaldmacdonald
25 Apr 16#135
Weird, mine says its with courier and will be delivered to a store. I didn't choose deliver to store! Cant get to speak to anyone at vodaphone so will just have to see what happens over the course of the week/
54M13
25 Apr 16#132
I'm no xperia fan boy, I'm looking to get a phone from a different manufacturer next time round, to try something new. In my experience atleast, the full sized z3 is blazing fast, it trades blows for being fastest to open apps with my dads Note 4 side by side.
It's definitely faster than the 1st gen Moto G I got before the Sony
Xcream
25 Apr 16#129
It worked for me after a few tries. Delivery in 1-2 weeks!
crossway
25 Apr 16#128
I've now changed to store pick up rather than delivery and it has worked - maybe just coincidence but hey it's now gone through!:smiley:
George287
25 Apr 161#127
I bought mine in September 2014 and it's a fantastic phone. The battery life doesn't seem quite as good as it used to be, I now have to charge it daily as it's usually down to 50% by the end of the day which then won't be enough to get through the whole of the next day, although I am a fairly heavy user of my phone and I'd still class the battery life as 'good'. I had an issue with the rear glass cracking soon after I got it, but Sony fixed it for free. It's still a remarkably quick feeling phone. Very snappy. It does feel a bit fragile, although having said that, apart from the rear glass issue (which would've been a manufacturing fault, as at the point it cracked it'd never been dropped) it's been OK since. I use it with a Ringke Fusion case with no screen protector and the screen still looks pretty good, just a few tiny scratches which you can only see if you're holding it at an angle into the light. I've not had any issues with the flaps either; they're a bit annoying, but have ultimately held up well.
The camera isn't bad, but not fantastic either. Results can be a bit hit and miss. I do love the dedicated camera button though, namely for how quick it is to actually get to the position where you can take a photo. My old iPhone was always slightly annoying for that if you were trying to get the camera app open quickly. The thing the camera seems to struggle with the most is direct sunlight, I've put a link to a photo where this effect is present below.
Regarding the internal storage, 16GB isn't a lot, but due to the expandable storage, it ends up not being an issue at all. I've got a 64GB card in mine which is absolutely ideal. I've never had to delete any photos, videos or music to free up storage, it also means I can have my large Spotify premium playlists downloaded for use in the car.
Kai
25 Apr 16#121
Can anyone confirm if the bootloader on these can be unlocked?
andyz4m to Kai
25 Apr 16#126
it can. Sony looks after the devs pretty well
marinela
25 Apr 16#125
Thank you very much, as I really need a phone due to my Iphone not lasting 1 day and problems charging it.
crossway
25 Apr 16#122
Anybody had trouble on the payment page ? i've tried both credit cards and no joy :neutral_face:
Xcream to crossway
25 Apr 16#124
Same problem... stuck on contacting card issuer...
thelatics
25 Apr 16#123
I was being serious as I'd looked at the spec on the deal page and couldn't see 4G mentioned in the data bands part - but looking a little closer it does (at the bottom, idiots) so that's fine!
Qrunch
25 Apr 16#120
I had a z3c and aside from the screen fragility (broke twice in 6 months) it wasn't easy to use a call recorder which I feel is a must these days with companies and the way they treat customers.
Redmi 3 has long battery, call record built in easily rooted and dual sim.
The miui rom is awesome and I find people who see miui end up loving it too.
Miui on the z3c when I had one anyway, wasn't great ether as it's not an "official" miui device.
And it's cheaper than the z3c
m.ad
25 Apr 16#119
I had trouble finding it at first for my Z3c - then noticed it was already installed! Look for "Camera" in your app drawer and there should be two apps with that name. Choose the one with the Google logo in the lens
misterleoni
25 Apr 16#118
As far as I know 'normality' is something that fits in with current trends or expectations so as it stands the Z3C is far from 'normal sized'.
ronaldmacdonald
25 Apr 16#117
he/she was referring to o2 unlocks, not vodaphone.
rcrm4444
25 Apr 161#116
Wow just bought have some heat x........ also used Cropstars way for Keep sim cheers
alainir
25 Apr 16#115
Had this phone since it came out...
Awesome camera, battery and sound
Awful waterproof, have had three in a year as the rubber port covers are so flimsy and come away easily. Every time you charge the phone the covers for ports become weaker
Very fragile phone in general
sam_proctor95
25 Apr 16#114
Parents both have these and I personally have the full size Z3 and we're all incredibly happy with them. Good cameras, responsive, great design, waterproof and expandable storage. Plus I find the Sony interface to be a lot more pleasant to use than some of the other Android manufacturers, great deal!
Just did a search for the google camera app but all I could find is cardboard camera by google !!, w
whats the app called ?, any one got a link for it please
pcangeldust
24 Apr 162#110
I think it's out of stock! Says available in 1-2 weeks :neutral_face:
TheVoice
24 Apr 16#109
Doesn't sound like you've tried the Z3 Compact either considering you don't mention any personal experience with it. It's a great phone and none of the issues you've mentioned are present, on mine at least.
thelatics
24 Apr 16#103
is this not even 4g, if so it's cold from me.
miffyl to thelatics
24 Apr 16#105
4g
brookysm to thelatics
24 Apr 16#108
Are you even trying to be serious? Cause it's 4g - it's specs aren't that far off current so called flagship phones.
cigbunt
24 Apr 162#84
Good deal if you like small phones
johnraggett to cigbunt
24 Apr 16#97
Best thing about it, for me.
TypicalAsianFindingDeals to cigbunt
24 Apr 16#107
Normal sized phones*
Qrunch
24 Apr 16#29
Hot but I prefer a redmi 3
urinthematrix to Qrunch
24 Apr 16#106
why? lets hear your view
benedictrodrigu
24 Apr 16#104
Just ordered, am excited , thanks OP , Is there any way to unlock the sim by rooting the phone? £12 seems a little pricey, previously I have payed like £1 for unlocks on ebay.
chrisbenwalker
24 Apr 16#102
Agree 100%. 18 months used to be a long time in the tech world. Nowadays it's nothing. There's barely any notable difference between on top end spec phone when compared to the following years offerings (in real world usage anyway).
I've have the z3c for about 18 months too, and no sign of depleted battery life, slowing up etc, and even many z5c owners who have had this before it, have said they prefer this model.
For this price, even when factoring an unlock price, is a steal, when compared to the z5c prices.
As for comparing it to phones like the Moto x play, or any of the other bigger offerings, I don't thing there's a comparison to be had, as form factors are very different.
mo
24 Apr 16#101
I need a new phone but the camera reviews have put me off.
jukester
24 Apr 16#100
Anybody know if the cheap Talk Talk sims will work in this without unlocking?
ashoksharma26211
24 Apr 16#94
Is this or honor 5x better? Honor 5x is available at amazon in 169.99...This will also be almost same after unlocking from vodafone as far as price is concerned.So the big question is , which one is better
soza to ashoksharma26211
24 Apr 16#99
This is better because Sony supports devs, so not only can this phone be updated to Marshmallow but it'll also get access to Android N. You'll find AOSP sources on GitHub and ROM's to pick from at XDA.
johnraggett
24 Apr 16#98
Hold F5 and the free sim option stays, I had F5'd it 10/20 times till finding out this.
Still unsure if I'm going for it the unlocking fee is putting me off, tight git I am!
ben612
24 Apr 161#83
To view the Free Sim option you can right click and inspect element underneath the last bundle on Google Chrome.
Simple remove style="display: none;" from div class="row similar-products" style="display: none;"
It'll then show.
benedictrodrigu to ben612
24 Apr 16#96
Thanks , another great Ben!
johnraggett
24 Apr 16#95
To add to my comment, after maybe a year possible less the battery wasn't that great, certainly didn't last a day and that wasn't with excessive use, quite a bit of browsing but no video OR OTHER MEDIA USEAGE, WHAT'SAPP SEEMED TO BATTER IT.
Excuse the shouting!
chaos86
24 Apr 16#93
I've had my Z3 for over a year now and can't fault it. Battery life is ridiculously good for a smart phone.
crap build quality on these, lots of users with issues from the glue holding them together coming apart and mic and sensors stopping working.
bwsmith190
24 Apr 16#90
Thanks, I'll give the google camera app a go. Same here, only phone I've kept for this long!
Mikey_2811
24 Apr 16#87
Soon as the page loads hit the stop button and it will be at the bottom of the page.
ficosaneil to Mikey_2811
24 Apr 16#89
I managed ok in internet explorer (yeah, remember that?). Open the page, ctrl+f "keep", done.
B1000
24 Apr 16#88
Just ordered, great deal. Only downside is as soon as I ordered, I had Vodafone ring my number on automated line trying to tell me about my account. Dodgy as I opted out of every selection menu and selected to keep my own SIM. Will ask to get my details deleted once the phone arrives.
ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 16#86
This is vodaphone, not o2.
m.ad
24 Apr 16#85
i thought the same about the camera - however I've started using the free Google camera app and I find it much better than the Sony app - give it a go.
Very picky about phones and found myself swapping every six months or so at one point, however I got this on release and I am still using it now. I have an issue with noise cancellation on loudspeaker but even with that I'm happy to keep using the phone. Get a cheap dock with additional magnetic chargers and you won't need to keep opening the flaps unless in an emergency. Great phone.
mrspydey
24 Apr 161#82
yeah i just ordered from moto :smiley:
and 3 sim only £9 4gb net unlimited mins for a year coz I told them I will leave
RedDwarfIsCool
24 Apr 161#81
I have this phone and it is the best phone I've ever had, and I've owned a lot of phones in my time!
The battery is excellent - I get about 2-3 days on normal usage. Also, the dedicated camera button is a plus.
Great phone with great spec and £149 is great deal.
Full spec available at device comparison, which is a great site for comparing 4 phones side by side.
mrspydey
24 Apr 16#35
this or moto play x
jazzuk777 to mrspydey
24 Apr 16#80
Definitely the Moto X Play I reckon
ofl_uk
24 Apr 16#79
good find but when I try to get to the checkout page I get a maintenance page saying "Sorry, we're making a few tweaks. We'll be back soon." Annoying to say the least.
jazzuk777
24 Apr 16#78
I disagree - the Z1 was mediocre in the extreme - I kept mine for about 3-4mths (best thing about it was it was such a bargain I almost got what I paid for it back, literally lost about £5). I haven't seen much to suggest that later versions have really done all that much to improve on it. The camera software was one definite issue and the updates didn't make any difference, so I think it's fair to say that many of those issues probably persist, but the performance was nothing to write home about either and genuinely on a par with a Moto G (though at least the specs on this were bumped). I can only imagine that Xperia fans haven't tried any other decent alternatives...
osstis
24 Apr 16#77
Vodafone web says 1-2 weeks delivery time?
cbstar
24 Apr 16#70
this or the htc 530 doesn't seem bad for £110 . Got S4 which been good phone but screen is flickering now
mrspydey to cbstar
24 Apr 161#76
moto x play for £50 more?
iand123
24 Apr 161#3
good price for a nice phone, even if a bit old. I've got a G4 but it doesn't do anything much different to the S4 it replaced, should have kept using the S4 and saved my cash. Crazy changing phones on a whim
jco83 to iand123
24 Apr 16#66
Love my S4. Recently ordered an S7 and returned it as the advancement for the price seemed ridiculous
brookysm to iand123
24 Apr 16#75
A bit old? It came out barely 18 months ago!
Stu C
24 Apr 16#74
IMO, these are the best case and screen protector, plus magnetic charger adapter:
Great price on a great phone. I have had mine for over a year and works very well.
Also not sure why others have had problems with its waterproof feature - mine has been in water tons of time....esp in the swimming pool. I have taken pictures underwater too - which were pretty good BTW.
All in all - good phone and good deal.
Stu C
24 Apr 16#72
FYI, getting an unlock code from ebay will void the warranty... I know it is absurd, but I got into this with both Vodafone and Sony directly, and they both told me that the warranty would be void unless the unlock code came from Vodafone. You need to consider whether it is worth spending an extra £8 to keep a 2 year warranty.
rkl
24 Apr 16#71
I have this Z3C for work and it's pretty good. Make sure you get a case because of the back being glass and the charging flap is very annoying (you can get a magnetic charger to work around that - they wisely ditched the flap in the Z5C). I've been running the Concept Marshmallow beta since it came out and it works well (Stamina mode is coming for it soon too), though I've lodged a bug about how frustrating the battery percentage display is in Marshmallow. It's a tiny set of digits *inside* the battery icon (rather than alongside which would allow a bigger font) and when you're charging, you can't see the percentage at all (it's replaced by a lightning flash).
mitre
24 Apr 161#69
Replacing my current one which has a cracked screen. great phone.
Found it impossiblr to buy using the Chrome browser though.
mrspydey
24 Apr 16#68
nice, I think I will go for moto x for £50 more
londonstinks
24 Apr 16#67
Great phone. Decent camera, blisteringly fast with great battery life.
Dodgy charging flap that will fall off and need replacing and dodgy headphone socket. Both of which I've had replaced under warranty.
zombrex
24 Apr 16#64
cracking phones , my screen is cracked on mine due to dropping wondering whether to get it repaired or just replace it for £150 hmmm
superspod to zombrex
24 Apr 16#65
I had the screen repaired on mine but now it's no longer waterproof and the proximity sensor is stuffed. I'd just get a new one.
illy1965
24 Apr 16#63
You can get it cheaper than that, found a seller with good feedback and it's £8.49, a bit more reasonable but not as cheap as my one m8 was to unlock
miffyl
24 Apr 16#62
Marshmallow is on its way to this device but may be slower due to Vodafone delaying rollout as they add more bloatware to the ROM. For those that prefer a more vanilla Android experience, you can install the official Concept ROM https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/112992521987845274967
nascent
24 Apr 16#58
I've spent about an hour trying to buy this, the vodafone website is awful. the continue buttons dont work.
Edit: So basically the continue button refused to do anything for store collection. Had to select home delivery, but there's no way I'll be home during the week, so looks like this thing will never be delivered.
ficosaneil to nascent
24 Apr 16#61
they'll just leave it with a neighbour
ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 16#60
Hmmm bit paranoid now so ordered some of these headphone jack plugs and the dk48 charger off Amazon for £11. Probably going to be closer to £200 buy the time I'm done lol
DirtyQwerty
24 Apr 16#59
Performs as well as if not better than my Nexus 5x and the battery life is far better. Miss it and this price is half-tempting me to go back to it. Much better than other phones in the £100-£150 bracket (Wileyfox, Smart Ultra 6, Moto G, etc). Great deal OP.
rawkinrich
24 Apr 16#57
fantastic phone.
Franky1971
24 Apr 161#56
I've had the Z3 Compact for 18 months now and it's an excellent phone for those who prefer practicality over a large screen. The battery life is amazing. I often go 3 days between charges with moderate usage. The camera is okay for casual use but colour is over saturated in poor light or when flash is used. The screen is only 720p but due to the smaller size, you really won't miss it not being 1080p and I have to disagree with those who complain about it as it's perfectly okay. As others have already mentioned, the charging port flap has broken off, rendering the phone no longer water proof. This happened after over a year so not something that is likely to happen straight away. Sony do load it up with plenty of bloatware, however I've never had any lag or over heating issues and it's been a pleasure to use. At £150 it's an absolute steal!!
Cropstar
24 Apr 161#55
Excellent deal, just ordered. Selected View Source on Google Chrome and searched for Keep and then clicked on the link provided (buying for someone on a sim only contract so no requirements for addons)
iainmann
24 Apr 16#54
Excellent phone and great price.
TheVoice
24 Apr 16#53
There's a magnetic charging port on the left edge of the phone. It's usually used for the desktop dock but works fine with a charging cable too, and means you're not having to fiddle with the flaps that cover the ports.
ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 16#52
How does this work please? Does it just use a magnet to attach to the phone body - so I don't need to buy a special case?
haritori
24 Apr 16#51
Sony marketing have even gone so far as to change its spec to "splashproof", of course most phones will be fine submerged and a good many of them wont, its a case of do you want to risk it? a major problem is supposed to be the headphone jack is not watertight.
pcangeldust
24 Apr 16#50
Nexus 5X is £200, that's a better deal for sure.
haritori
24 Apr 16#47
ITS NOT WATERPROOF lol..
I have one, its IP68 certified, the interwebz is full of people complaining of water damage on Z3's and Sony wont fix under warranty without an argument... i just got mine back after running it under a tap to clean it and then it failing.. other than that best phoen i ever owned, and cert best battery 3 days on a single charge!
TheVoice to haritori
24 Apr 161#48
As someone else suggested, if you're buying one of these get a magnetic charging cable too. The Magnector X-202 is good.
I appreciate that if something says it's waterproof then it should be waterproof, but in these sorts of cases (sensitive and expensive electronics devices) it should really be thought of as a "just in case" feature and not just a given.
ronaldmacdonald to haritori
24 Apr 16#49
I hope it is, my z1 spent a few weeks submerged in the sea and swimming pools without missing a beat which is primarily why I want this
captainbeaky
24 Apr 16#46
I'm thinking about getting this & returning the iPhone 5s refurb I ordered a couple of days ago.
Franken
24 Apr 16#44
Great price but Z1c still running perfectly so will keep for another year.
ronaldmacdonald to Franken
24 Apr 16#45
I had the z1 compact back in the day - it is a great phone, I was looking for another one but they are hard to get hold of at a reasonable price new - so this just ticks the box.
chaffordred
24 Apr 161#43
Great deal. I have this phone and its big brother (full size Z5) and I prefer the Z3 compact. It has to be one of the best all round phones for practicality. The fact that I can put it in my pocket and not feel like I am carrying a brick is a big bonus.
eloo
24 Apr 16#42
Great phone, great specs in a small compact phone.
Other companies when they make compact versions its always lots of downgraded specs
cbstar
24 Apr 16#31
I'm on EE so would need to unlock it. Never done this before easy to do?
ronaldmacdonald to cbstar
24 Apr 16#41
Depends who is doing your unlocking :-)
ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 16#40
Yeah, but I don't have a voda sim. I guess to unlock it it needs to be activated on the network so a £5 sim with £10 on it is no biggy. I have got some of the spare port covers for a fiver as well so we are covered.
alera
24 Apr 16#39
Really good price
ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 16#37
Ok so this is £165.99 for me to get with the unlock (phone + £10 credit sim for a fiver + £11.99 unlock). Still a cracking deal imo.
emJayO to ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 161#38
Read the OP, you don't need to buy the £10 credit.
redman
24 Apr 162#36
I'd advise buying a magnetic charger for it so you dont have to keep opening the charger flap. Mine has fallen off twice now.
jazzuk777
24 Apr 16#30
Never buying another Sony smartphone again - they seem really overrated. Too much bloat, budget end crippled by low storage (and I think I'm correct in saying Marshmallow adoptive storage option has not been enabled? Friend bought an M4 Aqua and wondering if it will help her), and never seem to remotely match the on-paper spec in the real world.
54M13 to jazzuk777
24 Apr 16#34
There flagships are top notch though performance and battery wise (this being one of them).
ronaldmacdonald
24 Apr 16#33
Regarding the unlock, will the phone need to be activated for 30 days as per the vodaphone conditions when going through a third party unlocker?
captainbeaky
24 Apr 161#32
Just search eBay using "vodafone uk unlock xperia z3" or similar.
Lambylah
24 Apr 16#28
Cab you post the link please?
Lambylah
24 Apr 16#27
Vodafone web site says £19.99 for unlock
Mike626
24 Apr 161#26
Really good phone. I've just sold mine for an s7 but it was brilliant for the year I had it. The only issue is the charge port flap but you can buy replacement ones from China quite cheap (eBay). For £150 it really is a bargain.
ohdearohdear
24 Apr 168#1
SU6 blah blah blah
jaydeeuk1 to ohdearohdear
24 Apr 162#25
Usually I'd agree but if you have Jeremy Beadle hands this will be better. Battery life looks good, although camera seems like a let down and its stuffed with bloat, something you don't get on the SU6.
This was £430 on release!!
daydotz
24 Apr 16#24
good price for a nice phone :sunglasses:
emJayO
24 Apr 16#23
£12 on eBay
Lambylah
24 Apr 161#22
Vodafone web site says £19.99 for unlock
emJayO
24 Apr 16#21
I've recently upgraded to the Marsh Mellow Concept 6.0.1 ROM, works very well. Great phone, perfect form-factor for me.
shubhraj456
24 Apr 16#20
Good find.
Hammondhammond
24 Apr 161#19
I couldn't find the keep existing sim, so I right clicked on the browser selected view source, searched for "keep" and clicked on a javascript link. That seemed to work ! :smiley:
OrribleHarry
24 Apr 16#18
Hot from me. Excellent phone. Thanks OP
HACKS
24 Apr 161#17
Just ordered it, and with patience managed to click on keep my sim button. Any suggestions for a cheap unlock site. Thanks
bwsmith190
24 Apr 163#16
I've had this phone for a year or so, it's great. Battery life is fantastic, the noise cancelling built in is good and it's easy to text one handed.
On the other hand the camera is a bit ropey. Very hit or miss in anything other than perfect lighting which is frustrating. Also the waterproof flap thing fell off which has also happened to a couple of other people I know.
On balance I think I love it mostly because it's so practical. It's small, fairly robust (except for the back glass) and never dies on me.
Damn... since writing this my screen has peeled off and the whole phone has given up on me. Oh well, still loved it. RIP Z3 Compact
badboybubby
24 Apr 16#14
be warned I have the same phone and it overheats when you use the camera. good price though..
Hammondhammond
24 Apr 16#13
any cash back ?
Dazzla
24 Apr 16#12
Great deal, even with the unlock. Better value than a oneplus x.
gsusx
24 Apr 16#11
Great phone with great battery life. My only really complaints are the audio volume and washed out screen.
![Fresh Breakfast Meat Box (Using code) @ Campbells Meat [Haggis / Lorne Sausage / Bacon / Black Pudding & More]](/images/topics/208684_1.jpg)
![[Xbox One] Q. u. b. e: Director's Cut on Deals with Gold](/images/topics/208716_1.jpg)
Opening post
Waterproof.
To buy without a mandatory top-up:
There is a 'Keep Existing SIM' option at the bottom of the 'Bundles' page, which allows you to purchase a PAYG phone without a top-up. Unfortunately Vodafone now hides this button a few seconds after the page has loaded. You have to be quick to click the button, if you miss it simply hit F5 or the 'Refresh' button on your browser to reload the 'Bundles' page and try again.
- chancooluk
Not available to buy instore.
jetskizzz
Another way to "catch" the keep existing sim button is to use Firefox, click "View - Page Style - No Style" and the text page appears. The button doesn't disappear. Ctrl-F to search for "Keep" and job done. I'm sure other browsers may have this feature, but I have checked this in Firefox on a Mac and it works.
Direct link if someone needs for "Keep your existing Vodafone SIM" option - http://shop.vodafone.co.uk/shop/pricePlans/plansHome.jsp?planContractType=monthly&_DARGS=/shop/pricePlans/freeBee/listing/freeBeeListContent.jsp_AF&_dynSessConf=-2798153241376315336&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successParams=keepcurrentSim%3Dtrue&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successParams=+&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorParams=&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorCode=+&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.currentCommerceID=+&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorParams=+&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.errorCode=shppfl&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successCode=shpppex&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.successCode=+&_D%3A/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.KeepCurrentSIM=+&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.KeepCurrentSIM=&/atg/commerce/order/purchase/CartModifierFormHandler.currentCommerceID=ci6094002633
- funkies1
Top comments
http://www.technobuffalo.com/2016/04/10/sony-brings-android-6-0-1-to-xperia-z2-xperia-z3-xperia-z3-compact/
On the other hand the camera is a bit ropey. Very hit or miss in anything other than perfect lighting which is frustrating. Also the waterproof flap thing fell off which has also happened to a couple of other people I know.
On balance I think I love it mostly because it's so practical. It's small, fairly robust (except for the back glass) and never dies on me.
Damn... since writing this my screen has peeled off and the whole phone has given up on me. Oh well, still loved it. RIP Z3 Compact
Latest comments (332)
Where did you use to unlock?
So this time I know now to go straight to third party unlock, flash, and jobs a good un. Simples.
I was originally told as I had it collected in store I had to return the phone via the store.
Went to the store to be told they can't do it and it needs to be online. they thankfully arranged a returns bag to be shipped to me.
Returned the phone on Tuesday and was advised it was received Wednesday and someone will be in touch regarding the refund.
Asked for an update Thursday and was told someone will be in touch 24-48 hours.
Still no contact so I email the social team who are now telling me they never sent out a returns bag due to "technical issues".
Starting to get impatient now and may investigate a section 75 claim instead as their customer services are not giving me any faith in them!
I'm not going to say who the eBay seller was, because I don't want to give the unfair impression that they may be worse than any other. The listing did say that codes may take up to 7 working days, and in the event they arrived after 5 working days. Unlock codes for Sony on Vodafone just seem to take a long time, for reasons I don't understand.
I ordered these for my family last week, and they were delivered a couple of days later. I'm still waiting (six days so far) for the unlock codes from one of the eBay sellers though :disappointed:
1. Using the Google Chrome browser, install the extension here - https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/disable-html/lfhjgihpknekohffabeddfkmoiklonhm/related?hl=en This will allow you to disable Javascript when needed in the points below.
2. Go to http://shop.vodafone.co.uk/shop/pay-as-you-go/sony-xperia-z3-compact-payg/sku84983
3. Select White or Black and then click 'Choose Phone'
4. Using the add on disable Javascript
5. Refresh the page. Scroll all the way to the bottom and click on the button 'Keep your existing SIM'
6. At this point the page will look blank
7. Turn Javascript back on via the add on.
8. Replace the URL with, or navigate in a new window to: http://shop.vodafone.co.uk/shop/cart/cart.jsp
You should now see....
:sunglasses::stuck_out_tongue:
Managed to get it working (a bit hit and miss) in Chrome when using this add on and disabling Javascript - https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/disable-html/lfhjgihpknekohffabeddfkmoiklonhm/related?hl=en Seemed to have to go to my basket.
The option shows in FireFox using the method posted in the OP, however on selecting it the next page isn't loading for me so you can't seem to progress, even when switching the style back or trying in a new window. Any thoughts?
Do people think the keep existing SIM option is still available? I'm on a Chromebook at the moment and can't see it in a refresh of the page. Will try in FireFox later. Chatting with Vodafone online they're saying they removed the option a couple of weeks ago(?)
Opinions may differ.... My wife and 20 year old son commented how good it looked. But hayho
OK so far.
Just got one using "keep own sim" ... anyone now recommend a good quality case ?
Thanks in advance
Just got one using "keep own sim" ... anyone now recommend a good quality case ?
Thanks in advance
Edit: never mind, got it to work.
They do look smart but out of my price I think !
I use to own the Xperia Z ultra which had similar flap arrangements. My device went back for repair three times because the rubber seal on the flap kept falling apart. The device was sent back to expansys for a refund (which they eventually offered after numerous emails and a legal threat)
Cheers.
Doubt there will be a problem.
@ficosaneil: Not your fault mate! It's always good to see recommendations from HUKD members.
It does say something like 1-7 days for the code, I must have just got in before the BH weekend or something.
The code he sent did not work!!! I have emailed him twice with no reply.... Be warned
BTW if you want to test your phone, use the hidden diagnostics in the dialer - *#*#7378423#*#*. It's better than the diagnostics in the settings menu, and you don't have to share your phoneID with Sony to do it.
£2 or more quid cheaper on fleabay, brand new. I got this- and its sloooooooow
with a price drop from £400 to £150 within 6 months, i'm really gutted as you can imagine. It puts me off ever buying an android/Sony phone as they don't hold their value, and as much as i want them to be, the OS and apps just aren't as clean and intuitive as iOS.
Just waiting for the unlock code now...
Annoyed me so much I spent a lunch time having a rant one day:
Open Rant At Vodafone
Their terrible customer service and ordering systems means I wouldn't go near them again for a long time.
No. More. Bloat. No. More voda.
Got mine today. Nice mobile and good size but very slippy. Case ordered.
Try a fleabay unlocker for around £13
Unlockdog for £16
High street £?
I used unlockdog - done in 17 hours.
Am I doing something wrong? Just a casual user with browser, emails, some facebook and messenger?
There is a menu to show you what's using all the juice.....
Also, dump the Facebook app. I use Metal instead and find that is much more battery efficient
And Vodascrotes. Really? What are you - 11 years old?
On the bright side my Z3C is being delivered tomorrow, need to get it unlocked ASAP.
More good news... It's being delivered tomorrow yipeeee
We have a few of these Sony Z phones and tablets around the house, and although the flaps can be a fiddle to put back in place they do their job nicely.
Mind you, I've never stuck one in a bucket...yet.:wink:
"Your order has been accepted. We've placed your order."
They say it will take 1 to 3 working days.... so call back tomorrow.
Same as the other poster, Vodafone really do seem to be completely inept at the very basics.
I told him I already had an order confirmation number and he told me there's nothing more he can do for me.
It's been many years since I used vodafone (15 I think), and it's saddening to see their customer service hasn't improved since then.
"Your order has been accepted. We've placed your order."
I know with the Z3 they used DRM keys to limit functionality of the phone, if you tampered too much. Look into it, not sure if it's the same with the Z3 Compact.
Also, what's Sony's warranty policy with rooting and custom ROMs? Do you void your warranty if you do unlock your bootloader? Seems too much of a risk if that is the case
Thanks
* scrap that - it seems here maps is now on android. happy days
https://www.reddit.com/comments/43o3lf
http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/news/facebook-android-battery-life-down-reduced-a6846941.html
Just use Chrome, login to Facebook and allow it to send you notifications. You won't get any of the battery drain and it's not much different from using the app.
You'll get even better battery life when Sony pushes out a new update to add back stamina mode.
Loads of buyers on forums echo similar stories and also random cracks. Warranty being a pain trying to get those issues repaired.
https://www.facebook.com/Xperia-Z-Cracked-Screens-370754419718137/
It's a phone, not a rubber duck.
Thanks for your order. We're checking the details of your order and will be in touch shortly with an update.
The UI has become nice though, the marshmallow concept beta for the z3 is closer to stock Android than Samsungs, HTCs and LGs offerings.
People still regard the z3 and z3c sonys best Z series smartphones. For this price it's really not a bad buy
It's definitely faster than the 1st gen Moto G I got before the Sony
The camera isn't bad, but not fantastic either. Results can be a bit hit and miss. I do love the dedicated camera button though, namely for how quick it is to actually get to the position where you can take a photo. My old iPhone was always slightly annoying for that if you were trying to get the camera app open quickly. The thing the camera seems to struggle with the most is direct sunlight, I've put a link to a photo where this effect is present below.
https://flic.kr/p/rXG8bi
Regarding the internal storage, 16GB isn't a lot, but due to the expandable storage, it ends up not being an issue at all. I've got a 64GB card in mine which is absolutely ideal. I've never had to delete any photos, videos or music to free up storage, it also means I can have my large Spotify premium playlists downloaded for use in the car.
Redmi 3 has long battery, call record built in easily rooted and dual sim.
The miui rom is awesome and I find people who see miui end up loving it too.
Miui on the z3c when I had one anyway, wasn't great ether as it's not an "official" miui device.
And it's cheaper than the z3c
Awesome camera, battery and sound
Awful waterproof, have had three in a year as the rubber port covers are so flimsy and come away easily. Every time you charge the phone the covers for ports become weaker
Very fragile phone in general
whats the app called ?, any one got a link for it please
I've have the z3c for about 18 months too, and no sign of depleted battery life, slowing up etc, and even many z5c owners who have had this before it, have said they prefer this model.
For this price, even when factoring an unlock price, is a steal, when compared to the z5c prices.
As for comparing it to phones like the Moto x play, or any of the other bigger offerings, I don't thing there's a comparison to be had, as form factors are very different.
Still unsure if I'm going for it the unlocking fee is putting me off, tight git I am!
Simple remove style="display: none;" from div class="row similar-products" style="display: none;"
It'll then show.
Excuse the shouting!
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/191688191683?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
Very picky about phones and found myself swapping every six months or so at one point, however I got this on release and I am still using it now. I have an issue with noise cancellation on loudspeaker but even with that I'm happy to keep using the phone. Get a cheap dock with additional magnetic chargers and you won't need to keep opening the flaps unless in an emergency. Great phone.
and 3 sim only £9 4gb net unlimited mins for a year coz I told them I will leave
The battery is excellent - I get about 2-3 days on normal usage. Also, the dedicated camera button is a plus.
Great phone with great spec and £149 is great deal.
Full spec available at device comparison, which is a great site for comparing 4 phones side by side.
Ringke FUSION - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00OHZZ8OM
Nillkin 9H Tempered H+ Glass Screen Protector - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nillkin-Amazing-Tempered-protector-compact/dp/B00RLLHK22
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Micro-USB-to-Magnetic-Charging-Charger-Dock-Adapter-for-Sony-Xperia-Z1-Z2-Z3-D-/252340989612?var=&hash=item3ac0b1eeac:m:m0MZ2BrPtxqbZ-heJKLoIgw
Also not sure why others have had problems with its waterproof feature - mine has been in water tons of time....esp in the swimming pool. I have taken pictures underwater too - which were pretty good BTW.
All in all - good phone and good deal.
Found it impossiblr to buy using the Chrome browser though.
Dodgy charging flap that will fall off and need replacing and dodgy headphone socket. Both of which I've had replaced under warranty.
Edit: So basically the continue button refused to do anything for store collection. Had to select home delivery, but there's no way I'll be home during the week, so looks like this thing will never be delivered.
I have one, its IP68 certified, the interwebz is full of people complaining of water damage on Z3's and Sony wont fix under warranty without an argument... i just got mine back after running it under a tap to clean it and then it failing.. other than that best phoen i ever owned, and cert best battery 3 days on a single charge!
I appreciate that if something says it's waterproof then it should be waterproof, but in these sorts of cases (sensitive and expensive electronics devices) it should really be thought of as a "just in case" feature and not just a given.
Other companies when they make compact versions its always lots of downgraded specs
This was £430 on release!!
On the other hand the camera is a bit ropey. Very hit or miss in anything other than perfect lighting which is frustrating. Also the waterproof flap thing fell off which has also happened to a couple of other people I know.
On balance I think I love it mostly because it's so practical. It's small, fairly robust (except for the back glass) and never dies on me.
Damn... since writing this my screen has peeled off and the whole phone has given up on me. Oh well, still loved it. RIP Z3 Compact
http://www.technobuffalo.com/2016/04/10/sony-brings-android-6-0-1-to-xperia-z2-xperia-z3-xperia-z3-compact/
Ps, the fm radio is excellent and hardly uses any battery, seems to only lose one per cent an hour, very approximately.