Samsung

htc one>

but if you're set on those 2, I prefer the s4.

well I also considered the HTC one but thought those two are superior so I kicked it out of the race

The Xperia probably has the better build quality, so it would feel a lot better in your hand. Sony also plays very well with developers, so you can probably root it and install custom ROMS, but you could do the same with the S4. It's also water/dust resistant so that's good. The phone only has JB 4.1 though (for now).

The S4 is well.. a Galaxy. It has the brand so any random Joe will automatically say you have the best android phone ever and you may like that (not to say it isn't a beast of a phone). It has 4.2 and it will probably get a lot more support than what the Xperia will get, since it will sell a LOT more. Specs-wise they're both around the same, although the S4 has a better battery and screen, and in my opinion, Touchwiz is the best of all the android versions (second only to stock android).

Having the Galaxy Note 2, I have to say it's the best android phone I've had... so I would choose the S4 and I would just buy it a metal battery cover through ebay.

HTC One is the best choice. But, between S4 and Xperia Z, I'd choose the Xperia Z.

It's really up for personal preference.

HTC one has superior materials though.

The HTC One has gotten better reviews then s4 following behind is Sony's flagship.

Sony Errision Xperia Z.

Sony Xperia Z

I'd go with the S4

Ultra pixel not megapixels (marketing slang) and still take better photos then the Xperia.

The HTC One is great if you're going to root it and get rid of the disease that Sense is

It's also 4.1 and judging from HTC's history, it won't be upgraded in a long time and they will stop supporting it as soon as they launch their next flagship. Besides the premium quality it has (it's probably the sexiest phone ever) I don't see why I would buy it over the S4.

I still love my S3.

Thats cute, your opinion. However more critical acclaim by non-fanboys has been directed to sense 5 vs the cartoonish Touchwiz. i will provide receipts if necessary.

I love Sony Xperia Z, water and dust resistent... and beautiful + strong ...

Sony has been making some solid phones lately.

I also have receipts of reviews calling BlinkFeed annoying and calling Sense a "setback in some aspects". I will provide if necessary too. And Touchwiz isn't cartoony, unless you're stuck in the days of the S2