Sony Xperia Z5, Z5 Compact touch down in US

It's better late than never for the Sony Xperia Z5 and Xperia Z5 Compact, which are finally making their way to the US after debuting in September.

Sony will sell them online and through retailers unlocked at $600 and $500, respectively, starting February 7.

That Sony is selling its latest flagship phones directly to consumers speaks to its struggles nabbing partnerships with the carriers. You typically buy your phone through a Verizon Wireless or AT&T, not online directly from a handset company or electronics retailer. That's why most consumers don't think of Sony when it comes to phones, even if its brand is well known for TVs and the PlayStation gaming console.

First introduced at IFA last September, the duo of high-end handsets feature some of Sony's best hardware to date. Moreover, the pair are built with metal and glass materials and boast water resistance up to 3 feet. The two smartphones will be offered as unlocked devices compatible with GSM-based service providers such as T-Mobile and AT&T.

Cut from the same cloth, the Xperia Z5 and Z5 Compact share a number of traits. Both pack a 23-megapixel rear camera and front-facing 5-megapixel shooter, each with an Exmor RS sensor for improved images. Additionally, the phones offer microSD expansion card slots with support up to 200GB worth of media.

There are notable differences between the two, however, each targeting a slightly different consumer. Here are the key features in the smartphones:

The Sony Xperia Z5 and Xperia Z5 Compact will be offered through Amazon, Best Buy, B&H and other retailers.