Database Develop

[Q] Motorola Moto X or Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play Edition?

I've been using the LG Nexus 4 since February & I feel as if it is about time for an upgrade, we've had some great times together but I'm just about ready to retire from it. My main reason why, battery life. It's obvious that the Nexus 4 has awful battery life, I've never been able to make it through a full day even when I first bought it. I love it for the obvious reasons; vanilla android, updates, etc.
SO my question for you guys today is what seems like the better buy here? The Moto X or the GPE S4? Keep in mind that money is not an issue here. Now this is the Moto X thread & I know that many will say go with the X for sure but I want to hear everyone's take on this.
Reasons why I'd consider the Moto X:
Active Display - Just brilliant, I played with it on my friend's X the other day & it's TRUE. I don't think I could consider any other phone that doesn't have this feature. On my Nexus 4, I have to pull it out of my pocket, hit the power button, unlock it, check the notification, hit the power button again & then put it back in my pocket. -_-
Touchless Control - Is a feature I've always wanted without having to buy an S3, S4, with S-Voice. Being able to call out "Okay Google Now" while idle is genius.
Quicklaunch Camera: I was starting to believe that this feature was a gimmick but this isn't the case, I can see myself using this daily.
Vanilla Android: I don't do skins & this is probably why this phone is so damn fluid, I honestly think the X smokes my Nexus 4 with just about everything except maybe gaming. But I could care less about that I'm not a mobile gamer.
Moto Assist: Watching my friend use this feature while riding in the passenger seat of the car I was completely blown away, this works as advertised. Enough said.
AMOLED Display: Confession, I'm an AMOLED whore. I miss the over saturation on my Galaxy Nexus & active display takes full advantage of this. I'm reminded how much more battery I can save with blacked out apps. I don't care about burn in, I don't use a phone as my daily driver for more than two years & I don't find myself staying on one screen for very long.
Build Quality: This phone was obviously well built. It's the same 4.7 inch display on my Nexus 4 but yet somewhat a tad bit smaller which is a plus. I'll leave it at this, the Moto X feels like sex in my hand.
Battery life: Last but certainly not least. I haven't had the chance to play with one for a full day but from what I've been seeing on G+, people have reportedly been able to get through a FULL day of heavy use with an average of 5hrs of SOT consistently. Now that sounds like the kind of battery that I desperately need. If I do end up getting the X I'll probably pick one of these up just in case: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=0SC-000Y-00026
Timely updates: Android 4.4 KitKat was announced along with the Nexus 5 on Halloween, & every Moto X was updated within three weeks of that. That's quite impressive to me, the Verizon variant was first in line, word?
Cons: The only con that I've been hearing is the camera but apparently the recent update fixed it. I have never been a big smartphone camera dude but I guarantee that it bests my Nexus 4. Another con would be the specs but Moto has proved that the spec war is just about over. The only thing I'm curious about is how long will this phone get updates because of its hardware/processor. Another con, ROM Development: Doesn't really bother me one bit, all I need is XPosed Framework, Unicon, & GravityBox. Truth be told I'm sort of over flashing & flashing every other day. I'm one of the few crack flashers left, I wonder how many there are left out there.
Reasons why I'd consider the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Play Edition: Let's get this out of the way now, I've been told to just buy the regular S4 & flash the GPE ROM on it, I refuse. I want the actual OTA to come to the phone.
Super AMOLED 1080P Display: Like i said before, I'm an AMOLED whore & the 1080P would sweeten the icing on the cake even more.
Timely updates: Another major deciding factor here, it already has KitKat, but after the Moto X which is okay.
IR Blaster: I DO wish the X had a dedicated IR port, this is a feature that I really need but so far the X has more going for it as you can see above.
Removable Battery: Something that I really miss with my GNex was the removable battery. Battery life means a lot to me and that's WHY I'm not buying a Nexus 5. They say "just flash a custom kernel" but no I want something that is great out of the box with little to no modification. & besides the Nexus 5 doesn't have an OLED display but that's neither here nor there so let's get back on topic. Some say they've switched from the S4 to the X & noticed better battery regardless of the S4 having a slightly larger battery. But this is something I'll purchase if I do pick up the GPE S4: http://zerolemon.com/details.php/zerolemon-2x-galaxy-s4-3000mah-slim-battery-charger
Earbuds: It comes with earbuds, which is something that shouldn't even be on this list but seeing as the GPE S4 is losing I'll add this ha ha.
Cons: I was upset to find out that the GPE S4 doesn't support the 1700mHz band on T-Mobile which is 3G/HSPA+. I did some research but this isn't true. This only applies to the GPE HTC One.
ROM Development: There are like no ROM's for this phone but again, all I need is the XPosed framework, good to go.
No Active Display: I could use Knock2+ Notifications or Dynamic Notifications to achieve the feature on the X but I'm not sure how reliable they are.
Plastic Build Design: The plastic on Samsung phones has NEVER concerned me, although I cannot speak for other's. As I just put a high quality case on it anyway.
That's just my take on it, if you don't mind I'd like to hear everyone's take on this.

I have had both phones and have to say it's not even close. The mha of the battery is misleading on this phone. With all bells and whistles turned on I get consistently around 16 to 20 hours, and I pound out my phone allot all day while professors are gabbing. More if you use tasker and other techniques. And I used to love huge phones but the Moto x just gets every thing right. I'll never own another phone until the Moto x successor, and that's coming from someone who used to switch phones every other month
Sent from my XT1056 using xda app-developers app

I also had a gs4 earlier this year. I was able to get good battery life on my GS4 and it had a great camera but the X overall is a better phone with better battery life and fairly comparable camera. The active notifications are simply amazing, voice control works well and everything else simply just works properly with no lag. The GS4 just seemed glitchy and the stock samsung ROM was laggy.
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk

Thanks guys keep them coming!

I just came from a Galaxy S4 and moving to Moto X was the best decision I ever did.
Moto X has a much better battery life, it doesn't lag AT ALL, active notifications, voice recognition, almost no bloatware (google apps don't count).

I came from a Galaxy Nexus. The hardware design alone is astounding - you would actually rather have it in plastic than in metal, like what the HTC One offers. I spoke at length about what's so wonderful about the phone in some other thread. Long story short, I'm not switching away from this phone for a long time. I haven't had such a regretless purchase in a while. heh

I came from an S3 so take it for what it's worth.
Don't worry about specs. This phone runs very smooth better than my note2(when I had it). Every touchwiz device seems to have that bit of a lag or stutter.
I purchased this phone primarily for the touchless control feature, bit I've found myself liking the active notification feature just as much.
Although I did think the twist to launch camera was a gimmick it's actually very handy to be able to launch the camera from anywhere with a flick of the wrist.
One con of this phone is the camera quality I do prefer the pics of the S3.
Sent from my XT1058 using xda app-developers app

EternalAndroid said:
Removable Battery: Something that I really miss with my GNex was the removable battery. Battery life means a lot to me and that's WHY I'm not buying a Nexus 5. They say "just flash a custom kernel" but no I want something that is great out of the box with little to no modification. & besides the Nexus 5 doesn't have an OLED display but that's neither here nor there so let's get back on topic. Some say they've switched from the S4 to the X & noticed better battery regardless of the S4 having a slightly larger battery. But this is something I'll purchase if I do pick up the GPE S4: http://zerolemon.com/details.php/zerolemon-2x-galaxy-s4-3000mah-slim-battery-charger
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been looking into alternate battery options on the Moto X lately and for what it's worth Zero Lemon are making batteries for the Moto X.

EternalAndroid said:
Removable Battery: Something that I really miss with my GNex was the removable battery. Battery life means a lot to me and that's WHY I'm not buying a Nexus 5. They say "just flash a custom kernel" but no I want something that is great out of the box with little to no modification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The highlighted text describes the Moto X so well, and that applies across the board. Well, except the camera maybe.
What other phone can you think of that has middle of the road specs yet offers a user experience that bests all the flagships? I had the S3, I still have my Note 2, and I've played with all the current flagships. I think it's rare that a device, which can't (or shouldn't) compete on paper with the latest and greatest, leaves users without envy.
The Moto X truly is greater than the sum of its parts.

I love how you mention how you'd never go back to a phone with a fixed battery. I switched from an S3 to the Moto X and I'm loving all the other features but I miss the camera picture quality.

I have both phones. Moto X is superior in pretty much every way, perhaps save the screen. The software on the s4 impedes use and causes lag and crashes. The Moto SW actually improves things (shocker I know). Love active notifications, and as long as I'm alone OK Google Now is pretty fun

Moto X. And I like Samsung phones. I don't miss the removable battery nor microSD slot.
Both have the full AOSP experience, Motorola takes it to the next level with their X8.

[Q] Would you still buy the X now?

I have broke my screen on my S4 and being the way I am about phones I can't handle it anymore.
I have looked at the X because the price and I have liked Moto phones.
With all the new phones being announced would you still buy the X right now or would you wait for something else?

Slayers said:
I have broke my screen on my S4 and being the way I am about phones I can't handle it anymore.
I have looked at the X because the price and I have liked Moto phones.
With all the new phones being announced would you still buy the X right now or would you wait for something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm going to buy a spare moto X as I predict no phone will come come close to it in ergonomics and thin bezel size/aesthetics for a long time.
Moto X2 is almost guaranteed to have a 5 inch screen = automatic disqualification. I have bigger than average hands (can grip a basketball) but I use my phone so little that I really can;t justify carrying around a huge screen 14 hours a day for the 2 minutes it comes in handy for.
Basically all the phones released this year are sh1t aesthetically.
S5 = thick size bezels, looks like a boat
HTC M8 = MASSSSSSSSSSSSSSIVE bottom bezel, huge phone for that small (in comparison) screen
Oppo Find 7 = Too big (that's what she said)
Sony = bezels always too thick
LG G2 = buttons on the back = GTFO LG
Nexus 5 = bezels are thicker than it's twin brother than LG G2 which is unacceptable for me
iphone 6 = as per leaks the side AND top/bottom bezels are very thick
Basically after being addicted to phones since 2011 I have spent close to $4k on this stupid hobby.
Top 3 phones were:
1. Moto X
2. iphone 5
3. Nexus 4

Slayers said:
I have broke my screen on my S4 and being the way I am about phones I can't handle it anymore.
I have looked at the X because the price and I have liked Moto phones.
With all the new phones being announced would you still buy the X right now or would you wait for something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the situation your in right now. My S4's SIM tray self destructed. Needing a phone immediately and sick of using a large phone, I opted to buy the Moto X for 50 bucks.
Best phone I've ever owned. Period.
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

My list of phones -> http://forums.androidcentral.com/an...3-post-your-phone-timeline-2.html#post2949873 and keep in mind, for the "Work" phones, I can pop my personal sim in and used them if I wanted.
Yes, I would still buy the X today.
Size, feel, screen, battery life, over all usability make the X my favorite device. And its great for single handed use.
My Samsungs don't feel right in my hand, and I have to shift them around too much for single handed use. Touchwiz is still too cartoony. There is a lot of bloat I don't use. The built in apps for SMS/MMS have issues when sending to non-samsung phones (S4), as does the calendar when sending invites(Note 2).
I like my BB Z10 more now that it runs Android APK's natively, and has a better camera than the X, but I like widgets and other things on the X better.
The only thing I'd change about the X is its camera in low light. It has gotten better with the software updates but its still not up to where it needs to be. That being said, for outdoors, the software improvements (rom and camera app) have made big improvements.
Oh, but if you want to Root the X, buy the developer edition, or one with an unlockable bootloader!!! It might cost you more, but you can be assured that you can root if you want.

In a heartbeat. I have always loved Motorola phones. If it wasn't for LTE I would have never got my S3. I genuinely feel like my droid x and x2 were better phones than my Galaxy S3, other than the LTE and camera.
I'd by an x right now cause there's nothing better out right now. Once the MotoX replacement comes out that might change. I'm hoping for a removable battery so I can get an extended battery.

I just bought one on eBay rather than a Nexus 5 - because no other manufacturer has really done the Active Notifications, Always-On Voice Command and the human-friendly design together just yet.
Here's to hoping Nexus 6 has all of those, though Active Notifications are unlikely on non-AMOLED phones.

Just got my X yesterday, so I guess I'm still in the "honeymoon" phase...but I'll be honest with you...I love this phone.
I have been around XDA for a while now and have owned 6 consecutive Android phones (goes without saying, I will have a sex change before I ever get an iPhone). I used to theme for several Moto phones back in the day (BIONIC/RAZR/DX). Motorola phones, in my opinion, are the best built phones out there. Mix that with Google and it's just a whole lot of awesome. From the day I rooted my original DROID I knew that I would never own another phone that I didn't root. 5 or so years later I have found myself with a phone that may never see the beautiful world of root and/or unlocked bootloaders. While that sucks, it says something about this phone. The fact that I am not regretting my decision to buy it should tell you how awesome it is. Everything about it is just sexy (besides the camera, which is nothing to write home about). As already mentioned, it is ergonomically stellar. By far the best in-hand feeling phone I've ever owned. Love the vibrant display and the nearly-vanilla android stock ROM.
To put it simply: I hate that it is locked down. But this is an incredibly solid and fun device and I could not be happier that I went with it. :good::good:

dubsx said:
Just got my X yesterday, so I guess I'm still in the "honeymoon" phase...but I'll be honest with you...I love this phone.
I have been around XDA for a while now and have owned 6 consecutive Android phones (goes without saying, I will have a sex change before I ever get an iPhone). I used to theme for several Moto phones back in the day (BIONIC/RAZR/DX). Motorola phones, in my opinion, are the best built phones out there. Mix that with Google and it's just a whole lot of awesome. From the day I rooted my original DROID I knew that I would never own another phone that I didn't root. 5 or so years later I have found myself with a phone that may never see the beautiful world of root and/or unlocked bootloaders. While that sucks, it says something about this phone. The fact that I am not regretting my decision to buy it should tell you how awesome it is. Everything about it is just sexy (besides the camera, which is nothing to write home about). As already mentioned, it is ergonomically stellar. By far the best in-hand feeling phone I've ever owned. Love the vibrant display and the nearly-vanilla android stock ROM.
To put it simply: I hate that it is locked down. But this is an incredibly solid and fun device and I could not be happier that I went with it. :good::good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know about buying unlock codes? May not last long. If your phone is on his list.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2751177

kj2112 said:
You know about buying unlock codes? May not last long. If your phone is on his list.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2751177
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, mine was manufactured in September so I'm not going to go through the hassle to find out it's a no go. Thanks for looking out though!
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk

I actually did just receive my Moto X today. Coming from a rooted Galaxy S3 running CarbonROM and KT Kernel.
With my GS3's governor set to Interactive and the go_hispeed_load set to 50, the GS3 has smoother scrolling. But the unrooted, stock Moto X has faster app opening speed, which was pleasantly surprising.
Like many other users have said, all newer phones are simply just too big. All VZW phones are also locked, so it makes software considerations important. Moto X is as close to stock Android as you can get on-contract with Verizon and that is a huge plus IMO.
The touchless controls work surprisingly well, sometimes it doesn't fire, but it works consistently enough to be useful.
Negative:
Can't find a way to completely silence the phone. Even if I turn all volumes down to 0, if I accidentally trigger the Google Now hotword, it will beep. Bad during a test or interview.
The screen is a bit too warm. Even though the PPI is a tad higher than the GS3 and is a non-PenTile screen, white text on dark background on the Moto X looks weird. It's hard to describe but it almost seems liek as if the edges of the letters are bleeding.
My GS3 earbuds wire controls don't work.
Non-removable battery or microSD.
Camera.

I take it from what a few of you are saying is that no Moto X I buy now from the Moto Creator site or Verizon is going to be rootable if it's not a developer version, correct? If this is the case, how much extra am I going to have to spend? I need root for my root call blocker and greenify.
Also, I have been considering getting one of the wood back ones. I think they look super slick from the pictures I've see. Never seen one in person though. Any positives or negatives someone could share about the wood backs?
Sent from my Droid Razr M

jamesino said:
Can't find a way to completely silence the phone. Even if I turn all volumes down to 0, if I accidentally trigger the Google Now hotword, it will beep. Bad during a test or interview.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Settings -> Touchless Controls ->Launch Phrase Sound [Unchecked]
Problem solved.

Slayers said:
I have broke my screen on my S4 and being the way I am about phones I can't handle it anymore.
I have looked at the X because the price and I have liked Moto phones.
With all the new phones being announced would you still buy the X right now or would you wait for something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. It's by far the best phone ever made.
The only phone you should consider waiting for is the Moto X+1 or LG G3

Yes if you can find a good deal on a used one. No because its been out for 9 months already which is like 5 years in phone time. If my X broke now I would get a beater phone for summer until iPhone6 or X+1 came out.

You ask a question like this in a Moto X forum, what answer do you expect?
I have a Moto X, and if the X2 is 5 inches, I will keep using my X. Best phone I ever had.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I527 using Tapatalk 2

Hmmm, Well if I get a brighter screen on my next DE X (warranty) then yes.

I have used the S4 and unless you put CyanogenMod to it, Touchwiz is just horrible and overall it's much slower than the Moto X. It's just a night and day difference in experience. You'll find much more useful features with the Moto X. The camera is not as good, but it's the only thing you'll miss. The Moto X is still a great device, there isn't any other device out now that make me want to switch to it probably until the Moto X+1 come out.

Active notifications are just a show stopper. Being able to pull your phone out of pocket abs it shows the time without even having to wake it. Also if its sitting on the desk , just nudge it and the time appears. It's brilliant
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk

I've had my motox for 7 months now and I can honestly say I would buy this phone again if I had to.
It's the only phone on the market that has the features I want.
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app

Slayers said:
I have broke my screen on my S4 and being the way I am about phones I can't handle it anymore.
I have looked at the X because the price and I have liked Moto phones.
With all the new phones being announced would you still buy the X right now or would you wait for something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The answer is yes, just ordered mine yesterday. Cant wait to get it. Moving from a HTC One.
After reading through all these comments I'm even more excited to get it. I was able to get a student discount on it and I chatted with them so they sent me a free skip.

New to Moto X

I just switched from a S3 to a Moto X. My S3 was starting to lag pretty bad and the battery was crap. Well I can't say I am to impressed with the Moto X. I read comparisons between the 2 and the Moto X seemed better on paper to me. I know the camera on the S3 is much better but I wasn't to worried about that.
My question is Motorola just behind in the overall look of the phone? The interface with the dialer is back to the look of when I have an Incredible. And the battery is on par with my 3 year old S3. This phone is already at 4.4.4, so I cannot root it. Should I get rid of this and go for a S4 or pay more for an S5? I love the size of this phone and overall feel of it just disappointed I guess overall as compared to everything I was able to do with my Galaxy.

Like what ?

I also came from an S3 to a Moto X and it was completely night and day. S3 drained my battery and touchwiz was laggy as heck.
Agree the camera is not that good in the Moto X but other than that..i can't think of anything i missed from the galaxy S3.
I really can't think of what could be bogging down your phone so much... maybe you got a lemon..was it used?
I've been using mine for a year now and it's still pretty snappy and battery definitely is better than the S3 in my experience.
cheers
Ken

Having a large variety of devices on hand that I use (see the link in my sig), I still like the X best.
Sure, my S4 and S5 have a brighter display and better cameras (although, with 4.4.4 Moto has again made some improvements). But over all, the S4 and S5 are laggy compared to the X. (Note: Being my personal device, my X is loaded with apps and music. Being work devices, and often having to wipe and test, my S4 and S5 are stock with only two or three added apps.)
I'm 6'1" with average hands for a man that size. I find the S4 and S5 too big for single handed operation. The X is just the right size for single handed use, and fits in my pocket when needed without being noticeable.
Touch Wiz makes my samsungs look/feel cheap, and appears to be the cause of some/most of the lag I see. The only thing I LIKE is its calendar app, how it lists the agenda for the day on the bottom half of the screen. However, since I've been using Today Calendar on my X, I find that gives me what I like without bogging down my phone.
Not sure I see the resemblance between the Incredible's dialer and the near stock android dialer of the X. To be honest, I liked HTC Sense on my Incredible and Thunderbolt. I didn't like stock android on my original droid, or blur on my Droid X. Moto has made some nice, albeit slight, changes from stock on the X. Just enough to enhance it, and not too much that their changes get in the way or impact performance.
Battery life on my X is pretty good. I often go for more than a day and a half on my X between charges. Yeah, I wish it had replaceable battery, and microSD card slot, but I've learned to live without them now (I just have to make sure I always get a 32gig or more phone!).
I get that the X isn't the right phone for everyone, so if *you* don't like it. Return it. If you purchased it used, sell it. Don't rely on what others think or have to say.

It's your usage, setup or a poor signal causing your battery times... Or some issue.
It's not just "the phone".
Troubleshoot the issues in the "how's your battery life" thread in general. Lots of people to help there. ?

You're probably disappointed because there's no huge difference between the two.
Both have similar screens, battery life, etc. Moto X is faster, but the SGS3 has better camera and microSD.
I was thinking of buying the Moto X too. I have the SGS3, but I think the difference is little and not worth the money.

Sorry I made a post and haven't responded until now. I've had the Moto X for a week or 2 now and have gotten used to it but it seems like the battery dies must faster than my S3 did. I look at the usage and my work email is taking up most of the battery. I changed the sync from 15 mins to 30 mins but doesn't seem to help. I downloaded the Clean Master app and clear out the junk and stop apps from running a couple times a day but doesn't seem to help. Not sure if rooting would help but I've briefly read that if it's on 4.4.4 you can't. Oh well I still have my S3 so I may switch back and forth to see which I like better. Overall I like the size of the Moto X better as well as the speed!

I moved from a N4 to a G2 to a N5, to a MotoX. I didn't not have a HUGE down grade from the G2 to N2 with regards to battery. I'm not sure about the X yet as I've had it less than a day. I expect it to be the same as the N5 though.

nygbrad said:
I just switched from a S3 to a Moto X. My S3 was starting to lag pretty bad and the battery was crap. Well I can't say I am to impressed with the Moto X. I read comparisons between the 2 and the Moto X seemed better on paper to me. I know the camera on the S3 is much better but I wasn't to worried about that.
My question is Motorola just behind in the overall look of the phone? The interface with the dialer is back to the look of when I have an Incredible. And the battery is on par with my 3 year old S3. This phone is already at 4.4.4, so I cannot root it. Should I get rid of this and go for a S4 or pay more for an S5? I love the size of this phone and overall feel of it just disappointed I guess overall as compared to everything I was able to do with my Galaxy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What model of the x you have?

It's just a Verizon Moto X 16gb

So why you can't root it. Just unlock the bootloader and root it.

nexuspur said:
So why you can't root it. Just unlock the bootloader and root it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought the first sticky said any phone with 4.4.3 or higher cannot be unlocked.

nygbrad said:
Sorry I made a post and haven't responded until now. I've had the Moto X for a week or 2 now and have gotten used to it but it seems like the battery dies must faster than my S3 did. I look at the usage and my work email is taking up most of the battery. I changed the sync from 15 mins to 30 mins but doesn't seem to help. I downloaded the Clean Master app and clear out the junk and stop apps from running a couple times a day but doesn't seem to help. Not sure if rooting would help but I've briefly read that if it's on 4.4.4 you can't. Oh well I still have my S3 so I may switch back and forth to see which I like better. Overall I like the size of the Moto X better as well as the speed!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're writing a lot emails you could try out K9 and change the theme to "dark". It switches from black text on white background to white text on black background. That way you save a lot energy on AMOLED-screens. It's also quite well done in K9. Most inverted or "blacked out"-apps tend to look rather goofy. For SMS I use "Textra", that has a pretty nice dark theme too.

nygbrad said:
I thought the first sticky said any phone with 4.4.3 or higher cannot be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there is one way to find out: TRY IT

Thanks I will definitely try the email app.
And I'm not an expert in rooting. Only did the last few phones I had. I always make sure they're proven to work before I try them haha.

nygbrad said:
I thought the first sticky said any phone with 4.4.3 or higher cannot be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You read it totally wrong. Any phone on 4.4.3 or higher can not be rooted WITH AN EXPLOIT.
Any phone *except* Verizon (non-dev edition), AT&T, and Republic Wireless, can have the BL unlocked FREE, from Moto's unlock site.
Good Luck.

I came from an S3 and i found the MotoX to be much faster in responsiveness. Touchwiz is such a bulky laggy skin, although with that said, I do miss a couple of things about it:
1. The notification toggles
2. The photo gallery (create folders and drag-drop move feature so handy)
3. The ICS calendar integration
On 4.4 the battery was great on the X, but i found later iterations of the OS made the battery worse
Radio signal is much better on the MotoX device I can get LTE signal in my house which I never got with the S3
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app

Help me make a smart decision

Hello
Im finally upgrading from a htc explorer( while being small i loved how my battery could last me 3 to 4 days easy) i've kept it for 3 years with custom roms and was enough for me up until recently when i had to start using other apps like skype, viber and facebook as a form of communication.
I'm looking for a 300€ or less smartphone that will last me 2 years a least and ended up with two deals that i found to be under the current price market:
a moto x first gen new for 250 or a google nexus 5 new for 289
as i see the nexus is a little bit stronger on paper and probably would get outdated way after the moto x
but the moto x is cheaper and does have a nice set of perks like better battery life, ergonomics and that motorola notification thingy, my only set back was reading about the display getting burned after months of use and the gossip that motorola by now being owned by lenovo would stop getting updates after lollipop or at least as quick
I would appreciate your input on this matter especially if you have both, If i have to read another review on these phone i rather gouge out my eyes
I dont really care about the camera, im more interested in a daily driver that can mutlitask some apps and if possible be up to date in at least a year or 2.
Thanks in advance

noobexplorer said:
Hello
Im finally upgrading from a htc explorer( while being small i loved how my battery could last me 3 to 4 days easy) i've kept it for 3 years with custom roms and was enough for me up until recently when i had to start using other apps like skype, viber and facebook as a form of communication.
I'm looking for a 300€ or less smartphone that will last me 2 years a least and ended up with two deals that i found to be under the current price market:
a moto x first gen new for 250 or a google nexus 5 new for 289
as i see the nexus is a little bit stronger on paper and probably would get outdated way after the moto x
but the moto x is cheaper and does have a nice set of perks like better battery life, ergonomics and that motorola notification thingy, my only set back was reading about the display getting burned after months of use and the gossip that motorola by now being owned by lenovo would stop getting updates after lollipop or at least as quick
I would appreciate your input on this matter especially if you have both, If i have to read another review on these phone i rather gouge out my eyes
I dont really care about the camera, im more interested in a daily driver that can mutlitask some apps and if possible be up to date in at least a year or 2.
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know if I can help, but If I had the choice I think I would have gone with Nexus 5 for the sole purpose of having long lasting developer support. Nexus 6 is too big, but I am tied to Verizon, and went with Moto X 2013 Dev edition for 200 on amazon. I. Love. This. Phone. I don't think I would be happy going to a phone without all the moto apps baked in/moto phone moving forward... *shrugs*
What ever you do, take your needs, and then wants. And then make the choice, Lot's of choices with Nexus 5, Lot's of out of the box awesome with Moto X.:good:

If you want timely updates for the next two years and great long lasting developer support go for the nexus 5.
However the moto x is very unique because the out-of-the-box experience is fantastic, the motorola features are great and battery is good (way better than the nexus 5 if I'm not mistaken). Also, I've read this over and over and experienced it myself : it kind of eliminates the desire for custom roms (because stock is so great). So if you want to tweak the rom just stick xposed with gravitybox on it and you're good to go. All we need to wait for here is xposed compatibility for lollipop and we're set (of course everyone's waiting for the official lollipop update most importantly, but it's bound to happen!).
In my opinion the only downside to the moto x is that it will stop getting updates before the nexus 5. Hopefully we'll still have an active developing community when that happens!
So all in all, the way I see it is that it depends on if you value updates over user experience, or the other way around. If it were my choice I would go for the moto x!

I wouldn't expect another 2 years worth of updates for either device. I'd base my decision on size as long as you're only considering the developer edition Moto X.

noobexplorer said:
Hello
Im finally upgrading from a htc explorer( while being small i loved how my battery could last me 3 to 4 days easy) i've kept it for 3 years with custom roms and was enough for me up until recently when i had to start using other apps like skype, viber and facebook as a form of communication.
I'm looking for a 300€ or less smartphone that will last me 2 years a least and ended up with two deals that i found to be under the current price market:
a moto x first gen new for 250 or a google nexus 5 new for 289
as i see the nexus is a little bit stronger on paper and probably would get outdated way after the moto x
but the moto x is cheaper and does have a nice set of perks like better battery life, ergonomics and that motorola notification thingy, my only set back was reading about the display getting burned after months of use and the gossip that motorola by now being owned by lenovo would stop getting updates after lollipop or at least as quick
I would appreciate your input on this matter especially if you have both, If i have to read another review on these phone i rather gouge out my eyes
I dont really care about the camera, im more interested in a daily driver that can mutlitask some apps and if possible be up to date in at least a year or 2.
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, i used for 3 months nexus 5, phone quality is bad, speaker quality is bad, power button rattles...battery bad etc
now i use just for 7 days moto x 2013, all i can say is i am happy with my moto.

noobexplorer said:
Hello
Im finally upgrading from a htc explorer( while being small i loved how my battery could last me 3 to 4 days easy) i've kept it for 3 years with custom roms and was enough for me up until recently when i had to start using other apps like skype, viber and facebook as a form of communication.
I'm looking for a 300€ or less smartphone that will last me 2 years a least and ended up with two deals that i found to be under the current price market:
a moto x first gen new for 250 or a google nexus 5 new for 289
as i see the nexus is a little bit stronger on paper and probably would get outdated way after the moto x
but the moto x is cheaper and does have a nice set of perks like better battery life, ergonomics and that motorola notification thingy, my only set back was reading about the display getting burned after months of use and the gossip that motorola by now being owned by lenovo would stop getting updates after lollipop or at least as quick
I would appreciate your input on this matter especially if you have both, If i have to read another review on these phone i rather gouge out my eyes
I dont really care about the camera, im more interested in a daily driver that can mutlitask some apps and if possible be up to date in at least a year or 2.
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently own Moto X and used my friend's Nexus 5 quite alot. Let me tell you pro's of both.
Moto X
1 ) Ideal size and display screen.
2) Good build quality and feel.
3) Very good speakers and earpiece.
4) Lag free, very good for day to day tasks
5) Good battery timings.
Nexus 5
1) Much better software support and development.
2) 1080p screen vs Moto X 720p screen.
3) Better hardware.
4) Better video quality with OIS.

My reply,
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=57905262

Having owned a N5 I would say don't do it!
Honestly there isn't anything much better on the N5. Sure processor and screen quality are spec'd better but they also consume more battery. The N5 has a tiny battery...only 100mA more than the X.
The X has awesome daily usability. The active display is a great way to see ALL your new messages and notifications. The speaker sounds more clear and less tingy than the N5. Earphone output is great when listening to music. The battery lasts all day with 3-5 screen hours.
Also in my experience there are two different LCD panels being used in the N5. My friends screen was more cooler and blue. I unfortunately had a warm panel. But that's a user preference thing.
You can't go wrong with the X. Also after the updates to KitKat. The camera is actually pretty damn good. You have to use the google camera app though.
You can't go wrong with the X. I've had mine for two weeks and don't see myself upgrading until 2016.
I wouldn't even consider the second gen. The dimensions of the first X is beauty in the hands.
My post is allover the place but it is basically praising the X and saying the N5 isn't all that great.
Sent from my XT1053 using XDA Free mobile app

My reply also,
http://forum.xda-developers.com/google-nexus-5/help/please-help-make-smart-decision-t2988900/page3
in short for that kind of money get an lg g2

Your opinion, is the X 2014 still a good phone to buy to-date?

After a very disappointing event (Nexus wise) Google showcased today, I'm leaning toward the X 2014 Pure Edition. I've already made mine on Moto Maker and just waiting to pull the trigger.
I've had every nexus since the N1 but skipped out on the N6 due to its size. Now this year looks like I'm going to skip out again; the 5x doesnt have much more to offer than my current N5, the 6p (given has slightly better specs) is still too big for me. Mind you, I'm 6'6" with large hands, however I dont like big phones.. I dont like the fact I have to use finger-gymnastics to navigate the screen.
Anyways, given the stouter (sp?, word? lol) body of the X and its 5.2 display, it feels amazing. Quite perfect, actually... Reminds me of the G3; shorter body but housed a 5.5.. Amazing. And I really like the design of the moto x/n6 as well. minimal bezel, attractive, etc.
Given now this phone is a year old, would you still buy it today? I just want a 'new' device (the n5 has been great, treated me very nicely still runs perfect running 6.0 now), and I've always wanted to make my own moto x (always been a moto fan) but given what i do to phones and how i use them, the nexus always took my money. Since moto is pure Android out of the box, I think I can manage going away from a nexus this year.
Since the Moto Pure (2015) is too big, I've decided to maybe jump to the 2014 until next years moto or nexus..
Thoughts?

I agree that the new Pure edition (2015) is a bit too large. Though thinner than the Nexus 6 it is just about as tall. I own a 2014 model (AT&T) and find it to be near perfect for me size wise. As an average sized person with smaller hands it is a great fit. The 2013 model, which I also own was a bit too small in my opinion.
I consider myself a tech enthusiast. Always on the lookout for the latest, greatest thing I'll usually end up purchasing it at some point. Over time, perhaps it comes with age, I've found that those things which initially grab my attention (specs) matter less and less since code optimization and more RAM in the latest devices mean that even lower end phones perform very well. Bearing that in mind, Motorola phones tend to offer something that no other manufacturer does... a near stock experience with above average specs (CPU, RAM, screen and camera) and just the right amount of truly value added software to enhance the user experience. In terms of sheer power it likely won't match flagships on benchmark tests, but in day to day use and even in side by side comparisons you will be hard pressed to notice a difference in performance... for almost half the price. In my opinion this makes a Moto X a better value than a Nexus or any flagship device all day long.
So in answer to your question, yes, the Moto X 2014 is still a great buy if you can handle your buddies gloating over their expensive flagship devices while chugging down a beer at the local pub. Just don't bother with a carrier variant. Grab the Pure edition.

I also came from a Nexus 5 to a Moto X 2014. I love the Moto design language and fancied a go at Moto maker.
Not sure I quite get your argument though. You say "the 5x doesnt have much more to offer than my current N5" but the Nexus 5x has more to offer than the Moto X 2014:
- larger battery
- newer processor
- better camera
- fingerprint scanner
Here in the UK at least, the Nexus 5x is also cheaper (unless you can grab some sort of discount code as I did).
The only thing the Moto X has (and the reason I did the swap) was that it has a nicer design, especially with Moto maker. In addition, I always felt like a bit of a beta tester with the Nexus - constantly waiting for the next Android version to fix something that didn't quite work.
Not trying to sound negative but just wanted to lay down my thoughts.

rapperman said:
I agree that the new Pure edition (2015) is a bit too large. Though thinner than the Nexus 6 it is just about as tall. I own a 2014 model (AT&T) and find it to be near perfect for me size wise. As an average sized person with smaller hands it is a great fit. The 2013 model, which I also own was a bit too small in my opinion.
I consider myself a tech enthusiast. Always on the lookout for the latest, greatest thing I'll usually end up purchasing it at some point. Over time, perhaps it comes with age, I've found that those things which initially grab my attention (specs) matter less and less since code optimization and more RAM in the latest devices mean that even lower end phones perform very well. Bearing that in mind, Motorola phones tend to offer something that no other manufacturer does... a near stock experience with above average specs (CPU, RAM, screen and camera) and just the right amount of truly value added software to enhance the user experience. In terms of sheer power it likely won't match flagships on benchmark tests, but in day to day use and even in side by side comparisons you will be hard pressed to notice a difference in performance... for almost half the price. In my opinion this makes a Moto X a better value than a Nexus or any flagship device all day long.
So in answer to your question, yes, the Moto X 2014 is still a great buy if you can handle your buddies gloating over their expensive flagship devices while chugging down a beer at the local pub. Just don't bother with a carrier variant. Grab the Pure edition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completely agree on everything you said.. Well put.. You and I think a lot alike.. However, (lol) the only difference with me is that yes, I consider myself a tech enthusiast, but I dont necessarily itch for the latest and greatest. Because sometimes the latest and greatest is not always the greatest (for my uses anyway). I still consider my Nexus 5 to be at the top of the list compared to devices today... Most of that 'top of the list' title is due to pure android of course. Nothing beats that experience. Yeah, specs arent "great" and the average user who sees the Nexus' specs on paper wont give the device the light day, but it still out performs most if not all devices today and I've been perfectly content with its specs. But gah, I've been a big fan of the design Moto has instilled in their phones, and that in itself is a big attraction to me.. I sometimes wish the n5 was a tad bigger with less bezel, and honestly, the moto x 2014 fits the bill perfectly.
Hahaha that's funny you say that.. I have buddies all the time trying to get the "latest and greatest" top tier phone with the best of everything but continue getting let down when my 2 year old phone runs circles around their bloated and skinned devices. So to have my buddies chug on a beer and gloat about their high end devices, im sitting over here thinking, "thats cute".. User experience means more to me than specs to an extent... Just like you said, once time passes, those specs become less and less relevant and all you have left is user experience. I'd take a phone with lesser specs and amazing user experience than grab a device with high end everything but cant keep up with what im doing. Thats where our beloved Nexus and Moto X's come to play.
So thank you for your input! I agree on the Pure Edition 100% :good:
surrealjam said:
I also came from a Nexus 5 to a Moto X 2014. I love the Moto design language and fancied a go at Moto maker.
Not sure I quite get your argument though. You say "the 5x doesnt have much more to offer than my current N5" but the Nexus 5x has more to offer than the Moto X 2014:
- larger battery
- newer processor
- better camera
- fingerprint scanner
Here in the UK at least, the Nexus 5x is also cheaper (unless you can grab some sort of discount code as I did).
The only thing the Moto X has (and the reason I did the swap) was that it has a nicer design, especially with Moto maker. In addition, I always felt like a bit of a beta tester with the Nexus - constantly waiting for the next Android version to fix something that didn't quite work.
Not trying to sound negative but just wanted to lay down my thoughts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didnt sound negative at all, sir! This is just good discussion.
You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the design. Its such a good looking device. And to me, thats why i like it over the 5x. IMO the 5x isnt so attractive. Moto x wins on that one. The design of the phone really makes my phone buying hard. Every Nexus so far has been good looking imo except these recent ones. I'm picky lol.
Ok, I might have stated my argument incorrectly.. Lets try this, "the 5x doesnt have much more to offer than my current N5 that is relevant to my uses"
- Larger battery? Sure does. However I was/am still getting 4-5 hours SOT on medium-heavy usage. So battery has never really been an issue for me.
- New processor. Yes, this is the only thing that attracts me.
- Better Camera? Sure. A lot better actually. But I was/am taking amazing photos with n5 camera now. I can link you to my instagram if need be lol (The moto X has a better camera than my n5 so ill be content). Yes, I would LOVE the 1.55 pixel, but its not the deciding factor when i look for a new phone.
Fingerprint scanner? Irrelevant for me. I couldnt care less for it. Now, put that fingerprint scanner on the power button (like the z5) then youll have my attention.
So yes, the 5x has more to offer than the moto, but the moto is an upgrade (kinda) from my n5.. The deciding factor for me is the design tbh.. I think the 5x doesnt look very good. Its as damn near the same size and everything of the z3, only the 5x being a tad taller. While the Moto houses the same screen size (5.2), is a lot shorter, has minimal bezel, and just looks and feels better.
Hope that clears some stuff up

I bought the Moto X 2014 last week and I'm more than happy with it!
It's fast enough to last me for a couple of years (I don't really game on it), and the size, for me, is great..
This is the largest I want to go!
After some tweaking (unlock bootloader, root, install Xposed) it's even better!
Remove some bloatware / unused apps, set Min/Max CPU speed, use NovaLauncher, tweak some notification things and the vlume sliders and it's near perfect!
I'd recommend it as "good" to the average user and "awesome" to the advanced user/tweaker

surrealjam said:
I also came from a Nexus 5 to a Moto X 2014. I love the Moto design language and fancied a go at Moto maker.
Not sure I quite get your argument though. You say "the 5x doesnt have much more to offer than my current N5" but the Nexus 5x has more to offer than the Moto X 2014:
- larger battery
- newer processor
- better camera
- fingerprint scanner
Here in the UK at least, the Nexus 5x is also cheaper (unless you can grab some sort of discount code as I did).
The only thing the Moto X has (and the reason I did the swap) was that it has a nicer design, especially with Moto maker. In addition, I always felt like a bit of a beta tester with the Nexus - constantly waiting for the next Android version to fix something that didn't quite work.
Not trying to sound negative but just wanted to lay down my thoughts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you don't get all of the Moto suite of useful apps and features with the n5x. There's much more to the X 2014 than design. I bought one two weeks ago and it's a solid choice if you're not gaming all day (battery lasts more than one day with moderate usage - reaches 4 hrs SOT easily). It's also way cheaper than the n5x...
My overall judgement on the X 2014 is in my signature

Incredible_Culp said:
sometimes the latest and greatest is not always the greatest
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep... pretty much my point.
Every phone nowadays can make calls, send texts, take pictures and get you from point A to point B. The Nexus devices do it absolutely bare-bones which is fine for guys like us but not flashy enough for others. In my opinion only Motorola seems to understand the needs of the "inbetweener." (lol if that's even a word!) The person who is seeking a device that is minimal (for the sake of performance) yet functional (doesn't skimp on features). The Moto X is that device... essentially stock android with some added Motorola software that actually enhances the user experience.

Flipz77 said:
Well, you don't get all of the Moto suite of useful apps and features with the n5x. There's much more to the X 2014 than design. I bought one two weeks ago and it's a solid choice if you're not gaming all day (battery lasts more than one day with moderate usage - reaches 4 hrs SOT easily). It's also way cheaper than the n5x...
My overall judgement on the X 2014 is in my signature
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a moto x2014 as well but I barely see 2:30 hrs of SOT ....I'm running stock 5.1

I would have answered yes until today's Motorola announcement that carrier versions of the Moto X 2014 will not be upgraded to Android 6.0

That's the carriers fault though isn't it?
Probably be able to get CM I'm sure.
Sent from my XT1095 using XDA Free mobile app

N01tra said:
I bought the Moto X 2014 last week and I'm more than happy with it!
It's fast enough to last me for a couple of years (I don't really game on it), and the size, for me, is great..
This is the largest I want to go!
After some tweaking (unlock bootloader, root, install Xposed) it's even better!
Remove some bloatware / unused apps, set Min/Max CPU speed, use NovaLauncher, tweak some notification things and the vlume sliders and it's near perfect!
I'd recommend it as "good" to the average user and "awesome" to the advanced user/tweaker
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can definitely see why you say that.. I concur
Flipz77 said:
Well, you don't get all of the Moto suite of useful apps and features with the n5x. There's much more to the X 2014 than design. I bought one two weeks ago and it's a solid choice if you're not gaming all day (battery lasts more than one day with moderate usage - reaches 4 hrs SOT easily). It's also way cheaper than the n5x...
My overall judgement on the X 2014 is in my signature
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that signature is hilarious -- i dont game, so i have no worries on that
rapperman said:
Yep... pretty much my point.
Every phone nowadays can make calls, send texts, take pictures and get you from point A to point B. The Nexus devices do it absolutely bare-bones which is fine for guys like us but not flashy enough for others. In my opinion only Motorola seems to understand the needs of the "inbetweener." (lol if that's even a word!) The person who is seeking a device that is minimal (for the sake of performance) yet functional (doesn't skimp on features). The Moto X is that device... essentially stock android with some added Motorola software that actually enhances the user experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can see why you say that.. makes sense.. and come to think of it, youre right.. Even though our beloved nexus devices are the creme of the crop (to some people), its lacks certain things that i think would be nice to have.. small things nonetheless. slightly better camera, etc.. But i know that our nexus devices arent made to be top tier, so its understandable and i accept it.
but going off what you say, "Moto seems to understand the needs of the inbetweener". I concur. They make a device thats pure android, add better than average features (but not over the top that drives up the price), and still make it reasonably priced. i like that, and this thread is making my decision to pull the trigger even stronger.. Monday cant come here fast enough.