Hi,
Just wondering if you notice any difference watching 1080p or 720p movies on your phone?
Of course screen is even bigger than fullhd.
But stil interesting does it worth copying 8GB files to my phone or not? Processing bigger files battery will suffer as well.
What resolution movies or TV series do you watch with Note 4?
Interesting question. I think in terms of CPU usage and storage, bitrate is more important than resolution.
I think for CPU I would think it's marginal, but would love to see some tests on this.
I'll probably stick with above average 720 just for storage considerations. I don't watch that many movies on phone, but that could change with my first phablet.
|> sent from deep inside a Verizon Note 4 <|
bat0nas said:
Hi,
Just wondering if you notice any difference watching 1080p or 720p movies on your phone?
Of course screen is even bigger than fullhd.
But stil interesting does it worth copying 8GB files to my phone or not? Processing bigger files battery will suffer as well.
What resolution movies or TV series do you watch with Note 4?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Loads of HD720P vids and movies on mine, and they look great, got some HD1080P which looks more detailed and 2 4K vids, those look extremely realistic.
It would make sense that the higher the resolution the better the picture, even with a ~5" screen. I mean, have you looked at the way your photos look on your screen? Beautiful.
Trinatek said:
It would make sense that the higher the resolution the better the picture, even with a ~5" screen. I mean, have you looked at the way your photos look on your screen? Beautiful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course it makes sense.
But maybe 8gb fullhd movie doesnt look so much better than 720p 2GB file of the same movie.
So I want to know have any of you really tested that.
It also impactsco the SD card size to choose.
bat0nas said:
Hi,
Just wondering if you notice any difference watching 1080p or 720p movies on your phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I was addressing this question. And the answer I was trying to give you is: of course there are noticeable differences between 1080p, 720p and 4K quality, on the Note 4.
bat0nas said:
Of course it makes sense.
But maybe 8gb fullhd movie doesnt look so much better than 720p 2GB file of the same movie.
So I want to know have any of you really tested that.
It also impactsco the SD card size to choose.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure you could have guessed this, an 8GB full HD movie file is not going to look "so much better" than a 720p 1.5GB movie file. But going back to my first point, of course there is a noticeable difference -- a noticeable difference. But I mean, it really comes down to your preference then doesn't it?
Summary:
4k video on your phone is gonna look better than 1080p.
1080p video on your phone is gonna look better than 720p.
The higher the resolution, the bigger the file.
Whether you feel the better quality vs file size is worth it on a 6" screen is up to you, so on and so forth.
You need to form your own opinion and/or choice.
Me personally? I go with the 1080p. I'll sacrifice some of my 64GB SD card storage on movie files since I delete the movies after I watch them anyway. The screen's too nice for me not to. Again, that's just me.
Pick up an OTG cable ..save ur movies on a hard disk and use that to watch ur movies without worrying about ur phone storage
How otg cable is related to how good movies look on Note4 screen?
Teardrop45 said:
Pick up an OTG cable ..save ur movies on a hard disk and use that to watch ur movies without worrying about ur phone storage
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sort of wonder how that would affect battery life. The earliest portable hard drives used to require separate AC adapters. More modern ones have been able to eliminate the need for the AC adapter, but it sort of seems like they still draw a good amount of power to spin the disk inside.
bat0nas said:
How otg cable is related to how good movies look on Note4 screen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Summary:
The higher the resolution, the better the picture.
The higher the resolution, the larger the video file.
The larger the video file, the less storage you have on your phone for other things.
So, what Teardrop suggested is to buy an on the go adapter and with that, carry a portable hard drive with you.
With the high capacity of storage in a portable hard drive, you can have as large of video files as you want.
(I'm not a fan of this suggestion).
yes it does affect the battery ...i have a Tab S hooked up in car and i use it to watch movies and i noticed on the Tab S the battery consumption is almost double planning to buy this LAVA SimulCharge USB 1-port Adapter for Samsung Galaxy Tab 4/S/PRO/Note - Model TL-002 (Micro USB OTG Host & Charge) hopefully then i dont have to worry about battery life
You can buy an otg y cable, and just hook a small battery bank to it, just to save your phone.
Or why not just go mad on micro sd cards, you can buy otg card readers that work well.
huxley309 said:
Or why not just go mad on micro sd cards, you can buy otg card readers that work well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm definitely more of a fan of this idea. Buy a larger SD card or if you need, even two). Put your video files on that if you're gonna go somewhere where you'll want to kill some time with some movies/videos. Who honestly is going to want to keep their movie files on their phone after they've already watched it? That just seems silly to me *shrug*
Dude... You can watch 4k video on this phone? I'm so excited right now. Gonna download some random 4k video to try this out lolol
Sent from my SM-N910V using XDA Free mobile app
It has 4k screen.. but will it play thats a different question
bat0nas said:
It has 4k screen.. but will it play thats a different question
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not quite, it's a 2560×1440 putting it Inbetween 4k and 1080p.
It should be called a wqhd more than anything.
My mistake. Screen is indeed not 4K.
Related
I'm currently considering picking one up for about £120 on offer but I'm concerned over how good (or not) it is.
My current tablet is a Lenovo A2109 which is Tegra 3, 1GB and a 1280x800 TN display and I use it for web browsing, the odd comic/ebook, videos and emulators.
I would be interested in the Nook for CM support (something my Lenovo lacks).
I have the option of either giving this to my parents or keeping this and giving them my lenovo and either way they would only use it for basic web and video.
So what are your opinions on this tablet?
Thank you.
I got one a few days ago having had a Nexus 7 and Surface RT. Compared to those, it's VERY slow and laggy. A bit disappointing in that respect. But I bought it mainly for comics and videos and in that sense, it's better than both of those devices. I prefer the 8.9" screen for comics and the display is superb. Video playback was decent enough, although it stuttered a little playing a 720p video in MX Player.
Not sure about emulators but with it struggling to just run the OS smoothly, I'm not convinced on games/emulators. For £120, I feel it's been a good purchase personally.
By the way, I got mine from eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/111223369872?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649), £115 for the 32GB and it actually was new with just the box opened. It still had the covers over the screen etc.
I never had problem nor with stock ROM, neither CM11. Heavy game like GTA San Andreas run without problem. Excellent for web browsing and stuff. You should buy it for this price.
Nor I. I kept stock and just rooted it and put Nova launcher on. It's one of the most stable devices I have owned. You probably won't notice a performance boost over your Tegra 3 device, but the screen is one of the best out there in my opinion. You can't find anything close for the price.
DagsJT- are you sure you aren't in power saver mode?
Sent from behind the wheel of my car at 95 mph.
Thanks, I'll probably pick one up (albeit from retail (sorry don't like open box)).
One other quick question though, I need to decide between the 16GB and 32GB model.
The price difference is £18 for me but that's also the price of a 32GB micro SD card or the difference between a 32GB and 64GB card.
Since I'll be rooting and dealing with roms are there any real downsides to getting the larger internal model e.g. data loss on the internal storage? or downsides to getting a 64GB SDXC card?
Also, is there an alternative way to stream to a TV without buying the HDMI adapter?
One thing that does concern me with this is that there's no local distributor for the already (relatively) expensive HDMI adapter, what alternatives are there?
I heard CM was working on something but don't know what it's like or how it works.
tech3475 said:
Also, is there an alternative way to stream to a TV without buying the HDMI adapter?
One thing that does concern me with this is that there's no local distributor for the already (relatively) expensive HDMI adapter, what alternatives are there?
I heard CM was working on something but don't know what it's like or how it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is an option to stream in CM11 but I assume you need the hardware on the TV side which I don't have. I use the HDMI adapter and it works great no issues with quality and I watch movies from it at least a couple of times a week. I do need to take it out of the case I have as the case prevents connection but that is not the devices issue.
Thank you.
edit:
Just a quick update, I purchased the 32GB model and I'm currently making the stock backup using CWM.
Hey guys!
I'm currently using a xperia zl. I will get a new phone soon, and I really love the z3 compact.
There's only one thing that bothers me: the display resolution
Is it possible for a normal human being like me to see any difference between my current full hd reaolution and the z3c's hd?
I'm reading a lot on my phone, what about tiny little fonts?
I am also connecting my phone to my tv via mhl. Does the resolution of the phone's display affect the pictire on the tv?
Or am I just a victim of the full (or even quad) hd advertising campaign...?
Thanks for your opinion!
sturmtruppler said:
Hey guys!
I'm currently using a xperia zl. I will get a new phone soon, and I really love the z3 compact.
There's only one thing that bothers me: the display resolution
Is it possible for a normal human being like me to see any difference between my current full hd reaolution and the z3c's hd?
I'm reading a lot on my phone, what about tiny little fonts?
I am also connecting my phone to my tv via mhl. Does the resolution of the phone's display affect the pictire on the tv?
Or am I just a victim of the full (or even quad) hd advertising campaign...?
Thanks for your opinion!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No
Maybe...?
Yes
Yes you're being brainwashed by ads. Companies tend to go for higher and higher resolutions acting as if that really makes a phone better, but it doesn't. Why would such a small device need such a high resolution? It's not like we'll see the difference between 720p and 4k.
On a big screen (monitor) yes! On a phone, HELL NO... It will only deplete your battery faster.
About your TV resolution... well I think it depends how old your TV is. If my mind serves me right, TV's didn't had that great resolutions.
sturmtruppler said:
Hey guys!
I'm currently using a xperia zl. I will get a new phone soon, and I really love the z3 compact.
There's only one thing that bothers me: the display resolution
Is it possible for a normal human being like me to see any difference between my current full hd reaolution and the z3c's hd?
I'm reading a lot on my phone, what about tiny little fonts?
I am also connecting my phone to my tv via mhl. Does the resolution of the phone's display affect the pictire on the tv?
Or am I just a victim of the full (or even quad) hd advertising campaign...?
Thanks for your opinion!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you will notice no difference.
Also some big TV´s had in the past "only" 720p....
720p is full enough and will save the battery comparing to FullHD
On a screen of this size I think even 720p is more than sufficient. Even on a 32" TV your naked eyes will not be able to differentiate 720p from 1080p from a certain distance. The advantage in terms of battery saving is huge and I really am happy that this phone came with only 720p.
sturmtruppler said:
Hey guys!
I'm currently using a xperia zl. I will get a new phone soon, and I really love the z3 compact.
There's only one thing that bothers me: the display resolution
Is it possible for a normal human being like me to see any difference between my current full hd reaolution and the z3c's hd?
I'm reading a lot on my phone, what about tiny little fonts?
I am also connecting my phone to my tv via mhl. Does the resolution of the phone's display affect the pictire on the tv?
Or am I just a victim of the full (or even quad) hd advertising campaign...?
Thanks for your opinion!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Like everyone else said, 720p is just perfect for a phone of this size. 1080p or higher would has been an "overkill" at the expense of battery life.
As for the TV output it depends on the resolution/quality of the original content. If you are just generally mirroring your phone screen it will have a resolution of 720p on the TV (which itself is a very decent quality, most content on TV is 720p anyways). But playing back a high quality 1080p or 4K (the Sony Z3 Compact supports 4K video recording) video from phone, it will be displayed as Full HD on the TV.
http://wolfcrow.com/blog/notes-by-dr-optoglass-the-resolution-of-the-human-eye/
The most important thing when talking about ppi and which no one of the marketing departments mentions of course, is the viewing distance.
This article is very clear, for a normal human eye 720p at a viewing distance of 30 cm which is quite normal for a phone is sufficient. So, 1080p is already for most of us overkill and everything above pure male cow excrement.
No, No, & No lol. I enjoy that some companies are trying to get rid of this ridiculous trend (SONY, Motorola, etc.) I'm sure there are more trying to. We could probably have had 3-4 days battery by now if people weren't obsessed with buying into expensive power hungry components.
Guess ads are to blame too, thanks Samsung. Cough *Galaxy Notes -__- nothing wrong with a Note but the screen res is overkill to the max. Anyway rant done, enjoy your amazing battery life you buy it because you didn't get sucked into buying an unnecessary big display.
Ok, ok, I understood...
Thank you all for your opinions and links! :thumbup:
You could probably tell side-by-side. You won't care.
Side by side with my one m7 full hd and i can t tell the difference.
Hi
In my opinion it's all about compromise and priorities. Personally I have just moved from an LG G3 (Quad HD display) to the Z3 Compact.
Side by side the LG G3 really looks the business - in fact it is startling. But, the Z3C has a good screen, is much more pocketable, has brilliant battery life (I used to carry a spare with the LG just in case though never actually needed it - came close though), and outdoors in bright sunlight the Sony is much better.
So for me the compromises favoured the Sony.
As ever it's just my opinion but I hope it helps
Ok, by now a lot of you have spent some time with the Gear VR. Its fair to say that the quality of the vr experience has a lot to do with the visual quality. And when it comes to videos, this will also include the frame rates. But that's where I see the problem. I looked at the file sizes of the VR Intro and the Circus videos. They are about a gigabyte at 2 minutes. Now having used Milk VR, I'd say that is a lot bigger than the video files downloaded on Milk VR. So, as of now, due to storage limitations and wifi / network speeds, I don't think many videos, much less the ones we stream will be able to give us the best possible quality on the Gear VR.
Good thing is, I know the quality is possible as long as there is enough storage space. This is why I feel like some images / videos I feel that we only need 4K displays to remove the screen door effect while others I feel like we'd need 8K displays.
I believe 4k should be sufficient. It would give around 2k per eye. There are plenty movies being played in 2k digital cinemas. 8k could be better but maybe 10 years from now they be able to produce 6" 8k display. At that time direct projection onto retina of the eye going to be perfected and no need for headset like gear vr. Regular sunglasses with tiny projectors could do the job.
Sent from my SM-N910T using XDA Free mobile app
darekz said:
I believe 4k should be sufficient. It would give around 2k per eye. There are plenty movies being played in 2k digital cinemas. 8k could be better but maybe 10 years from now they be able to produce 6" 8k display. At that time direct projection onto retina of the eye going to be perfected and no need for headset like gear vr. Regular sunglasses with tiny projectors could do the job.
Sent from my SM-N910T using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought strapping a phone to the head was sorta concerning healthwise but direct eye projection lol.
boodies said:
I thought strapping a phone to the head was sorta concerning healthwise but direct eye projection lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_retinal_display
Sent from my SM-N910T using XDA Free mobile app
Never heard before about them.
http://www.osterhoutgroup.com
Sent from my SM-N910T using XDA Free mobile app
I remember my first 128mb mp3 player (and also minidisc but that died out) at about 3mb per song, thats about 42 songs. I have a 128gb microsd card now for half the price of that mp3 player. It's about the same feeling for early stage tech. By the time it's mainstream this will probably not even be an issue.
For example they already have 1tb/2tb microsd cards, the delay, from memory, is because they have to build entire new facilities to fabricate them
jarradhope said:
I remember my first 128mb mp3 player (and also minidisc but that died out) at about 3mb per song, thats about 42 songs. I have a 128gb microsd card now for half the price of that mp3 player. It's about the same feeling for early stage tech. By the time it's mainstream this will probably not even be an issue.
For example they already have 1tb/2tb microsd cards, the delay, from memory, is because they have to build entire new facilities to fabricate them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I remember those days. I think my first mp3 player had like 16 or 32 megabytes of memory lol. This was like back in 99 I think. Hope the time comes soon when everyone can easily download or stream 4K (or higher) videos at high quality. Wonder how much data throughput one would need. I personally download about 10 to 13 megabytes (MB) a second. It sucks watching low res (even 4k ones seem bad sometime depending on who makes them) VR videos when watching a 1080p movie with oculus cinema gives me a heck of a lot better quality of video. I think if the video quality is at least the visual quality of the matterport canyon demo it would be a good start.
So I am planning on getting a 128 GB OnePlus 3T, but I have some questions.
How is a phone without a SD Card? All devices I have had so far have SD Card slots, now I store my images on there but on the OnePlus, there is no SD Card slot, so I will have to store my images on the phone, which makes me scared.
What if the phone would just die on me and I would have to reflash OxygenOS then the Data section containing my images would also be wiped? I backup my images using Google Photos but I prefer to also have the original image file, should I just make a backup on the images like every week?
And last question, I have heard that the included warranty is really bad and that it can be a little pricey when sending it to Germany for repairs, is that true?
I was in the same boat as you before I got my Oneplus 3T. All my previous phones had SD cards. I came from a 16GB S5 with a 32GB memory card running CM13. For that reason I opted to get the 128GB 3T. I have yet to try installing any custom Roms on my device but I love having all the extra storage space at my disposal.
I've used phones without an SD card slot for a while now. I honestly haven't missed it. Using google photos has been great, and then if you have to wipe the data partition of your device ever, if you use TWRP to do it, it doesn't wipe your photos or videos.
As for the warranty, I have no idea for your location, but I'm in the US and had to my warranty on my OnePlus 2. Things seemed to go about as smooth as most other companies. A couple of minor frustrations, but overall went pretty smoothly.
I purchased and received a 128GB OnePlus 3T (I'm writing this response on it actually!) and am absolutely loving it so far! I would say that this is one of my favorite devices I've ever owned, next to my OnePlus One!
How's the display in terms of quality vs QHD? And how's sound from the device?
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
So I am planning on getting a 128 GB OnePlus 3T, but I have some questions.
How is a phone without a SD Card? All devices I have had so far have SD Card slots, now I store my images on there but on the OnePlus, there is no SD Card slot, so I will have to store my images on the phone, which makes me scared.
What if the phone would just die on me and I would have to reflash OxygenOS then the Data section containing my images would also be wiped? I backup my images using Google Photos but I prefer to also have the original image file, should I just make a backup on the images like every week?
And last question, I have heard that the included warranty is really bad and that it can be a little pricey when sending it to Germany for repairs, is that true?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I moved all my files from my old phone that was backed up to my PC a day before I got this and used send anywhere to send all my music and important photos etc to my new op3T I also purchased a USB C to USB A 64 GB just to make backups for that "just in case" but Google photos and drive are great for primary backups.
nano303 said:
How's the display in terms of quality vs QHD? And how's sound from the device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On a 5.5 device or below 1080p is sufficient for normal usage of modern mobile. Maybe not VR but I'm not interested in that yet, first generation of a new bit a of tech is a waste of money to me. But coming from a Z3+ and looking at my girlfriend's Note 4 I say the display is great, a lot better than my Sony in terms of contrast but equal in colour. I think Sony make some amazing IPS displays, it I has a more balanced colour than the Samsung even without turning on sRGB. Where sound goes being 100% stock headphones are louder than my old phone and the note. The quality of the audio is actually better than it too also a lot better than the note, have to use my Fiio to get "comfortable" listening experience on my Sony. There isn't any advanced audio settings like clear audio, ds xx etc but still clear , crisp and loud enough on 32 Ohm headphones. And the bottom firing speaker took me by surprise, it gets loud for notifications and ringtones. It has got some depth if watching some YouTube at higher volumes it get very high in treble depending on what's going on. Rounded up great screen for normal non VR use, great audio from both 3.5 and speaker (surprised myself) will also be trying USB audio soon in the future. For the price it is a steal tbh it is my first OP came from iPhone 4, Xperia Z3 and Z3+ while also using Samsung s4, note 4 and LG g5 for some periods. And this is my top most enjoyable experience's yet of any phone I have had the pleasure of using.
I will add this in as my opinion but this device slides into that "Nexus" void.
LMcR92 said:
On a 5.5 device or below 1080p is sufficient for normal usage of modern mobile. Maybe not VR but I'm not interested in that yet, first generation of a new bit a of tech is a waste of money to me. But coming from a Z3+ and looking at my girlfriend's Note 4 I say the display is great, a lot better than my Sony in terms of contrast but equal in colour. I think Sony make some amazing IPS displays, it I has a more balanced colour than the Samsung even without turning on sRGB. Where sound goes being 100% stock headphones are louder than my old phone and the note. The quality of the audio is actually better than it too also a lot better than the note, have to use my Fiio to get "comfortable" listening experience on my Sony. There isn't any advanced audio settings like clear audio, ds xx etc but still clear , crisp and loud enough on 32 Ohm headphones. And the bottom firing speaker took me by surprise, it gets loud for notifications and ringtones. It has got some depth if watching some YouTube at higher volumes it get very high in treble depending on what's going on. Rounded up great screen for normal non VR use, great audio from both 3.5 and speaker (surprised myself) will also be trying USB audio soon in the future. For the price it is a steal tbh it is my first OP came from iPhone 4, Xperia Z3 and Z3+ while also using Samsung s4, note 4 and LG g5 for some periods. And this is my top most enjoyable experience's yet of any phone I have had the pleasure of using.
I will add this in as my opinion but this device slides into that "Nexus" void.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you soo much for your help. You answered my question very professional
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
LMcR92 said:
I moved all my files from my old phone that was backed up to my PC a day before I got this and used send anywhere to send all my music and important photos etc to my new op3T I also purchased a USB C to USB A 64 GB just to make backups for that "just in case" but Google photos and drive are great for primary backups.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Question, is the 3T worth it according to you and should I get 128 GB or 64 GB?
Question, is the 3T worth it according to you and should I get 128 GB or 64 GB?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's personal choice but I went for 128GB as I have a lot of Flac music files and take a lot of pictures and videos, now I can mess with RAW too. 128 GB just gives you that headroom for the future and never worrying about storage space.
LMcR92 said:
It's personal choice but I went for 128GB as I have a lot of Flac music files and take a lot of pictures and videos, now I can mess with RAW too. 128 GB just gives you that headroom for the future and never worrying about storage space.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about the battery life? On my current phone I get around 1 - 2 hours SOT while just watching YouTube, Checking if my friends have sent me something on Snapchat... And using XDA.
What about the battery life? On my current phone I get around 1 - 2 hours SOT while just watching YouTube, Checking if my friends have sent me something on Snapchat... And using XDA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was the other day non stop use. Just now sitting at 70% 2h 43m SOT so average around 10% an hour when using it as a phone, YouTube,music streaming Tidal. Huge improvement over my Z3+ that I had to tailer use for as it got 3-4h SOT but heat was mental and didn't game much on it because of that and this 3T I can use in whatever way I want.
LMcR92 said:
This was the other day non stop use. Just now sitting at 70% 2h 43m SOT so average around 10% an hour when using it as a phone, YouTube,music streaming Tidal. Huge improvement over my Z3+ that I had to tailer use for as it got 3-4h SOT but heat was mental and didn't game much on it because of that and this 3T I can use in whatever way I want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So it costs 521$ for me to get the 128 GB version, in your opinion is it worth it? And also what about the size (Coming from a S4 Mini with 4.3" screen)
If you have the money and are happy I would say go for it. My Z3+ was 5.15 but is the same surface are as the 3T so it wasn't as big as I thought you just get more screen than head and chin. It's thin and feels quality my first metal phone. Feels 10x better than the lg g5 as it has a plastic primer coat and easy to get about the screen. It is slippery though so I would advise a quality case, my go to make is spigen. And like I said quality it great I would recommend watching the jerryrig video on YouTube. It's actual sapphire on the camera
I had a 32gb note 5 that never even got half full in over 12 months. Obviously I saved a little cash and went with the 64. Mainly because when I selected 128 at checkout it looked like a longer wait. In reality I have no need for the extra 55GB of storage.
I have yet to kill the battery on my device in a day. I'm extremely expressed with the battery life so far.
One question
How much storage do you get in 128 GB version?
WoodyTiger01 said:
One question
How much storage do you get in 128 GB version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
113.2GB's
undergrad said:
113.2GB's
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks :good:
Hi,
I'm considering buying a tablet for media consumption (reading, browsing, emails, videos and movies) at home mostly but also for occasional travel.
I have ruled out the S3 as it's too expensive, too heavy, I don't need stylus support, and I really don't like glossy or glass finishes. I love the soft touch plastic finish of the S2 and it's incredible low weight especially the 8.0" version. The AMOLED display is stunning as well. I'm also considering the Huawei MediaPad M3, some Asus models, and maybe the iPad Mini 4 (but I have never used iOS before). I'm struggling to decide on two things:
1. 4:3 or 16:10 display?
2. 8" or larger?
Although 4:3 is great for reading it's worse for videos, and I watch a lot of video. I used to own the Galaxy Tab 7.7 (16:10) and I loved it. Great battery, lovely display and a nice size. Would watching standard widescreen (16:9) on the S2 8.0" give me at least the same video size as watching on the 7.7" (assuming no cropping and native aspect ratio)? Are there any links on the internet that show it with video playing? I have read a lot of reviews but none seem to show it playing movie clips. I just want gauge how large the letterboxing will be.
The second point is probably related too the first. I would go larger if I choose a 4:3 tablet.
Are there any tablets with 3:2 display or similar? I only know of the MS Surface tablets and the Pixel C.
Thanks
szqnl said:
Hi,
I'm considering buying a tablet for media consumption (reading, browsing, emails, videos and movies) at home mostly but also for occasional travel.
I have ruled out the S3 as it's too expensive, too heavy, I don't need stylus support, and I really don't like glossy or glass finishes. I love the soft touch plastic finish of the S2 and it's incredible low weight especially the 8.0" version. The AMOLED display is stunning as well. I'm also considering the Huawei MediaPad M3, some Asus models, and maybe the iPad Mini 4 (but I have never used iOS before). I'm struggling to decide on two things:
1. 4:3 or 16:10 display?
2. 8" or larger?
Although 4:3 is great for reading it's worse for videos, and I watch a lot of video. I used to own the Galaxy Tab 7.7 (16:10) and I loved it. Great battery, lovely display and a nice size. Would watching standard widescreen (16:9) on the S2 8.0" give me at least the same video size as watching on the 7.7" (assuming no cropping and native aspect ratio)? Are there any links on the internet that show it with video playing? I have read a lot of reviews but none seem to show it playing movie clips. I just want gauge how large the letterboxing will be.
The second point is probably related too the first. I would go larger if I choose a 4:3 tablet.
Are there any tablets with 3:2 display or similar? I only know of the MS Surface tablets and the Pixel C.
Thanks
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Hi, my experience is that watching videos without headphones is dreadful due to the dire sound quality of the device. Hope this helps!
StrangerWeather said:
Hi, my experience is that watching videos without headphones is dreadful due to the dire sound quality of the device. Hope this helps!
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Yeah, I got that impression from all the reviews that I have read. They really didn't even try with the speakers. What's the audio quality like with headphones? I'm worried that there maybe a difference between the Exynos and Snapdragon versions. There seem to be a lot of different models around.
I found a really good comparison between the Tab S 8.4 and Tab S2 8.0 on YouTube. The letterboxing isn't as bad as I thought it would be. I think I can live with that. Trying to find a good deal on the S2 8.0 Wifi version now. Seems as though only the LTE version is available in Asia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-ZaifGOV2U
szqnl said:
I found a really good comparison between the Tab S 8.4 and Tab S2 8.0 on YouTube. The letterboxing isn't as bad as I thought it would be. I think I can live with that. Trying to find a good deal on the S2 8.0 Wifi version now. Seems as though only the LTE version is available in Asia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-ZaifGOV2U
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Why not consider the Tab S? Still has the best display for video.
I wouldn't be looking at the 8.4 for media consumption the larger screen of the 10.5 makes all the difference.
ashyx said:
Why not consider the Tab S? Still has the best display for video.
I wouldn't be looking at the 8.4 for media consumption the larger screen of the 10.5 makes all the difference.
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That was an option but it's quite old now and not for sale anywhere where I live. I don't like to buy second hand electronics, at least not without testing it first in person. As for size, I'm not sure yet. I have a 5.1" smartphone and 12" laptop so anything between 8-10" should fit nicely. I need to spend more time playing around with display units.
szqnl said:
Th As for size, I'm not sure yet. I have a 5.1" smartphone and 12" laptop so anything between 8-10" should fit nicely. I)
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why you need something in between?
My Tab S2 does a fine job with video, and it really doesn't look bad at all when it letterboxes (which is practically all video these days). I will concur that external speakers or headphones are practically required, though. The built-in speaker is good for little more than notifications and background music.
claudioita said:
why you need something in between?
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Don't need, just want
I like to use a "smaller" smartphone in my daily life but it's not great for watching movies or extended browsing/reading. The odd YouTube clip is fine. The Windows laptop I use for work, both at home and when travelling. It's non-touchscreen. I love it and I currently use it for watching movies and browsing/reading at home, but it's not that convenient for media consumption on a casual basis.
A lightweight portable tablet (10" or less) for use around the home and on long trips would be nice. It's definitely not essential which is why I'm looking for a cheapish tablet but I don't mind spending a little more for a quality display. That's why I'm looking for a discounted S2.
Samsung S2 will make a charm
szqnl said:
Don't need, just want
I like to use a "smaller" smartphone in my daily life but it's not great for watching movies or extended browsing/reading. The odd YouTube clip is fine. The Windows laptop I use for work, both at home and when travelling. It's non-touchscreen. I love it and I currently use it for watching movies and browsing/reading at home, but it's not that convenient for media consumption on a casual basis.
A lightweight portable tablet (10" or less) for use around the home and on long trips would be nice. It's definitely not essential which is why I'm looking for a cheapish tablet but I don't mind spending a little more for a quality display. That's why I'm looking for a discounted S2.
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I would go with Samsung S2. Works well for me. Plus, if you want to hook up a hard drive or speakers to your tablet, you can use accessory called SimulCharge USB (aka TL-002). It provides a simultaneous access to USB devices and charging for the tablet and peripherals in the same time. Now, you can watch all night movies
szqnl said:
Don't need, just want
I like to use a "smaller" smartphone in my daily life but it's not great for watching movies or extended browsing/reading. The odd YouTube clip is fine. The Windows laptop I use for work, both at home and when travelling. It's non-touchscreen. I love it and I currently use it for watching movies and browsing/reading at home, but it's not that convenient for media consumption on a casual basis.
A lightweight portable tablet (10" or less) for use around the home and on long trips would be nice. It's definitely not essential which is why I'm looking for a cheapish tablet but I don't mind spending a little more for a quality display. That's why I'm looking for a discounted S2.
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I see.
I am in a (little) better position.
I have a 5,7 inch smartphone and a Surface Pro 3, 12 inch. The last is good for watching movies, although not optimal as laptop (but ok).
I was wondering if going a different route:
- (keep) the 5,7 inch snartphone
- (buy) a tablet in the 10 inch range
- (buy) a laptop in the 13-14 inch range.
Or just stay as I am ...
claudioita said:
I see.
I am in a (little) better position.
I have a 5,7 inch smartphone and a Surface Pro 3, 12 inch. The last is good for watching movies, although not optimal as laptop (but ok).
I was wondering if going a different route:
- (keep) the 5,7 inch snartphone
- (buy) a tablet in the 10 inch range
- (buy) a laptop in the 13-14 inch range.
Or just stay as I am ...
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Yeah, I understand. I thought about getting an SP4 before I bought my laptop. Would have negated the desire for a separate tablet. But in the end I decided to get a traditional laptop for usability as I would be using it the most and I found 2-in-1s to be a little awkward to use as a laptop and too heavy for extended tablet usage.
Maybe wait until the SP5 or updated Huawai Matebook are announced to see what they offer. Also, if you are ok with Android and Samsung, wait for the Note 8 that will likely feature a 6.4"+ display.
No perfect solution, there's always going to be a compromise. I drive myself insane sometimes trying to think about what combination of devices would be best for me and end up buying nothing. :silly: In the end I decided based on convenience and usability of the most important aspects, working and connectivity.
Really want a tablet now though
AMOLED vs IPS.. very simple answer: get the s2 Tab!
It's cheap and the display is stunning. Audio is grand with headphones.
Niii4 said:
AMOLED vs IPS.. very simple answer: get the s2 Tab!
It's cheap and the display is stunning. Audio is grand with headphones.
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That's good to know, thanks. Don't really care about the speakers but the audio quality via the headphones needs to be high.
Once you go OLED screen for videos you never go back.
IPS backlight glow is a bad joke.
StrangerWeather said:
Hi, my experience is that watching videos without headphones is dreadful due to the dire sound quality of the device. Hope this helps!
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The ostracised frustrating thing for me is that the device has stereo speakers, but there are pointing in the same direction, a really terrible waste.
DShot92 said:
the device has stereo speakers, but there are pointing in the same direction, a really terrible waste.
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The speakers are chiefly for the LTE version of the s2 Tab. Namely phonecalls.
Seriously, who watches videos/movies on speaker while en route?
It's just wonderful in every sense. I take it with me in my back pack everywhere and I truly love it. I have a wonderful galaxy s5 too which is also great but when I have time to read and surf the web I take the tab and it's so great and light and fast that I doubt there's anything better in the market. I am writing this from the park in the grass. I use the 8" for the lightweight and comfort of holding it with one hand. I also have a very light 1kg laptop that I only use when I need to type long stuff. For bed and street always the tab s2.
pxp3 said:
...I use the 8" for the lightweight and comfort of holding it with one hand...
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That's exactly why I'm inclined towards getting the 8" version of the S2. It's incredibly light at 265g. You can literally hold it for extended periods with the fingertips of your thumb and index finger alone. The soft touch plastic back is a refreshing change to metal and/or glass. Much easier to hold and looks better in my opinion.
It's also a really comfortable size. I was a little worried about videos being too small due to the display ratio and subsequent letterboxing but it's actually ok. The AMOLED display is gorgeous as well.
An S-Pen would make this perfect! Not important for me though.
I have pretty much decided to get this now. Just waiting a while because I sense a price drop coming when the S3 becomes available here. Although I get the impression Samsung may keep the Tab S2 series going at the same price due to the S3 not really being a direct replacement.
Thank you to everyone for your comments and input
I was a little worried about videos being too small due to the display ratio..
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It is definitely a sub 8" experience with movies that have only x800 something vertical pixel (e.g. 1920x816) so I prefer x1080 videos. But still, the display is the very best on the market; for its price.
I would not wait for a price drop.. it may very likely rise or worse be sold out soon, once people recognize its value.