I've heard that the viewing angles arn't too great (not really that big of an issue imo).  The other issue with the screen is caused by the phone being waterproof.  The thin layer which protects the Xperia Z also goes over the screen and diminishes the look of the screen.  Its really unfortunate because otherwise it would have one of the best looking screens.

Personally I would get the S4 because I prefer function over form.

It's more powerful than the other 2 by a fair margin, has more useful features and SD expansion and removable battery.

Most people put their phones in a plastic or rubber case anyways so I don't see why they care what material it's made from.

I'll add to this by saying, that I have own an HTC phone, and Samsung one, and Samsung was much better.

XPERIA Z, it is so damm pretty

All of the phones will be basically the same, but the Z is by far the best looking

Oh and Samsung update their software much much faster than Sony or HTC

I really have to disagree with you - the HTC One has the best design of the three.

disagree with the samsung s4 having better functionality. i've played about with one and o2 Guru's who have done the same and they pretty much compared the new functions as "gimmicks."

it has a better processor, but not so much better to make a substantial difference. The AMOLED screen is better than the one from the Xperia Z, however, no one uses their phone from odd angles. Everyone uses their phone face on, making it not a big deal.

Anyone of the new Android phones will have better awesome screen as they all have a very high PPI count (100 above retina display).

In regards to frequent upgrades, I think this has changed with the Xperia Z, that along side the Sony tweaks to the OS, which are very good and make perfect use of stock android in simplifying and making features more easily accessible.

I agree with the cases argument simply because I here everyday how many people come in with smashed front screen at the Apple store (colleagues and brother work there).

After having smashed or broken screens in the past and the costs and inconveniences which come along with them, for me, my best case for investment was with the sturdiest, yet sexiest phone. However, if you aren't as clumsy as me, I suppose that don't really matter much.

By the way, the Sony Smart Watch works with any of the new Android phones, not just Sony ones :)

We all have different tastes I guess, some of us are clearly less biased towards Sony than others

lol touche

This might help. Personally I like the design of the HTC better but It's what's inside that really counts.

That and SD card support is why I have a Galaxy Note 2.