S2 8.0 or ipad Mini? - Galaxy Tab S2 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I've always been an Android guy. One of my sons was also, the other has iphones and ipads. The Android son recently got a used iphone 6 from a friend and is raving about it. So I bought a used iPad Mini 2 to replace my Nexus 7. I like the bigger screen but everything else seems a little foreign. I am getting used to it but it bothers me that I can't see the file structure and where things are stored like I can with Android (both my phone and the Nexus are running MM.) Had been looking at used Tab S models prior to getting the iPad.
I see that the S2 8.0 is on sale everywhere this week for $240-250 so I am tempted to buy one and sell the iPad (since I bought it used I won't lose much, if anything.) I know this is a forum for Android users and lovers but I was wondering if anyone had compared the Tab S2 to an iPad Mini (any version) and if so, why did you prefer the Tab S2? I mainly use it as book reader and internet surfer. I don't play games or watch movies but I do store a lot of pictures.

You sound like you have already decided.. my use is basically the same. The tab s2's amoled screen is great for a book reader, White text on black background is perfect for reading in bed. And the sd card sounds like something you would use also. If youre already invested in Android, I say go for it. It's a great little tablet for what you want to use it for

Broncos15 said:
You sound like you have already decided.. my use is basically the same. The tab s2's amoled screen is great for a book reader, White text on black background is perfect for reading in bed. And the sd card sounds like something you would use also. If youre already invested in Android, I say go for it. It's a great little tablet for what you want to use it for
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to agree. For consumption, that killer OLED screen is second to none. Its also really nice to hold as its so light. I'm not going to say its as fast as an ipad as it isn't, but for me, flexibility and control is key.

Masteryates said:
I have to agree. For consumption, that killer OLED screen is second to none. Its also really nice to hold as its so light. I'm not going to say its as fast as an ipad as it isn't, but for me, flexibility and control is key.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you determine which is "faster"? I know my T710 seems MUCH faster than my iPad mini and "all around" it is MUCH more enjoyable. But the problem is, that is all subjective. I have always preferred Android devices to iOS, so it is natural I'd come down on the side of the T710. But I have no idea how anyone could come up with a truly objective way to compare the two. Apples and Androids, er Oranges.

I had an ipad mini 2.. it is good enough for playing some music and youtube nothing els. specially the 16 gb version is just too small storage space for most simple things

Error404html said:
I had an ipad mini 2.. it is good enough for playing some music and youtube nothing else, specially the 16 gb version is just too small storage space for most simple things
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't play music on it and only occasionally watch a YouTube video. I have the 32GB version so storage won't be a problem.
I have decided for now, not to get an S2. I'm going to stick with the iPad Mini for a while. I've put Gmail, Google Chrome, Photos and Drive on it and most of the Android apps I use regularly have iPad or iPhone versions so it may work out ok. The only thing I haven't figured out how to do is sync the iOS calendar with my Google calendar. If I can do that, I won't miss having an Android tablet.
Update: with help from Google, I learned how to sync my iPad calendar with my Google calendar.

lewmur said:
How do you determine which is "faster"? I know my T710 seems MUCH faster than my iPad mini and "all around" it is MUCH more enjoyable. But the problem is, that is all subjective. I have always preferred Android devices to iOS, so it is natural I'd come down on the side of the T710. But I have no idea how anyone could come up with a truly objective way to compare the two. Apples and Androids, er Oranges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know if its faster or slower TBH. As my One Plus 3 is significantly faster than the S2, I would expect other high end devices like the ipad to be quicker.
I don't mind that Samsung put a pretty old SoC into the S2 as its so light. Others may disagree.

Masteryates said:
I don't know if its faster or slower TBH. As my One Plus 3 is significantly faster than the S2, I would expect other high end devices like the ipad to be quicker.
I don't mind that Samsung put a pretty old SoC into the S2 as its so light. Others may disagree.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The ipad mini 2 is two years older than the S2 and yet you expect it to be faster? I would doubt that seriouly.

lewmur said:
The ipad mini 2 is two years older than the S2 and yet you expect it to be faster? I would doubt that seriouly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I don't know the differences in all of the ipads.

Masteryates said:
Sorry, I don't know the differences in all of the ipads.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally, I take benchmarks with a grain of salt, but for what it's worth, Antutu rates the iPad Mini 3, which I assume is faster than the Mini 2, at 35513 and the 8" S2 at 47080. And if you want a really fast 5.5" phone, the LeEco Pro 3 can be had for as little as $335 and ranks right up there with an iPhone 7 selling in the $1000 range.

lewmur said:
Personally, I take benchmarks with a grain of salt, but for what it's worth, Antutu rates the iPad Mini 3, which I assume is faster than the Mini 2, at 35513 and the 8" S2 at 47080.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the Mini 2 and 3 use the same processor and run at the same speed. Since I use it mainly as a web browser and book reader, I wouldn't notice the difference.

lmacmil said:
Actually the Mini 2 and 3 use the same processor and run at the same speed. Since I use it mainly as a web browser and book reader, I wouldn't notice the difference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The S2 would still be about 25% faster.

lewmur said:
The S2 would still be about 25% faster.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Meaningless for my usage.

lmacmil said:
Meaningless for my usage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may be "meaningless" to you but it negates the argument that even if better, the S2 is slower than the mini. It isn't. It's faster.
edit: To make it clear, this is the post that I feel to be in error.
I have to agree. For consumption, that killer OLED screen is second to none. Its also really nice to hold as its so light. I'm not going to say its as fast as an ipad as it isn't, but for me, flexibility and control is key.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I tried to live with an iPad mini 2 for a year.
I gave up, and I have a Tab s2 (9.7")
Can't be happier. Never an iPad again...

Related

[Q] iPad 2 vs Galaxy Tab

Did a search, didn't find a whole lot on this topic so figured i'd ask since I'm trying to decide between the two.
I currently have a Captivate and can say i love the dev community it has. Running CM7 and its awesome.
That being said, Apple's hardware has always been great but iOS is lame. I previously had a jailbroken iPhone and it was ok at best. iPad is a bit different though, if i was to get one i'd jailbreak it as soon as i can....but more interestingly its looking like OpeniBoot has support for the original iPad so it might have iPad 2 support in the furture. I'm not sure how smooth android would be on it but it would allow me to run both android/iOS on great hardware.
A big factor for me is price, from what i'm reading the new Galaxy Tab 10.1 will probably be around $800 like the Xoom and thats too much for me. Both wifi verisons of iPad 2/Galaxy Tab around $500 which is the price point i'm looking for.
So which would you recommend?
Thanks
Wifi Galaxy Tab will be more like $400 max..
Would you not consider a used/new 3G Galaxy Tab.
The 7" design is great for portability and adding 3G completes the Tab imo..
If its for household use only I would say IPad..
Bear in mind I only own a Tab though not an IPad lol.
Well This is what I think:
iPad 2:
Much more secure
Closed Source
Nicer Screen
NOT PORTABLE DUE TO BIGGER SIZE.
Galaxy Tab 7
Not very secure ( Thank you you SOB's....your day will come ) but still more secure than Windows.
It is PORTABLE ( Can fit into pocket )
You can customize it/Flash it
All in all the Galaxy Tab is a winner IMHO. 7 inches is the PERFECT size ( pls no "****" jokes ) for being more portable and customisation.
Digiguest said:
Well This is what I think:
iPad 2:
Much more secure
Closed Source
Nicer Screen
NOT PORTABLE DUE TO BIGGER SIZE.
Galaxy Tab 7
Not very secure ( Thank you you SOB's....your day will come ) but still more secure than Windows.
It is PORTABLE ( Can fit into pocket )
You can customize it/Flash it
All in all the Galaxy Tab is a winner IMHO. 7 inches is the PERFECT size ( pls no "****" jokes ) for being more portable and customisation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not very secure?
http://www.groovypost.com/howto/news/pwn2own-google-unhacked/
RE:
Just got the Tab on Thursday. Bought it outright.
Got the Bell Mobility model so I could put my internet keys' SIM into it.
Two things impressed me:
1.) Using Z4Root I rooted my Tab in seconds and it was simple. (Article on the forums here with the apk)
2.) The fact that I could unlock the device for free with Roto's process (also on the forums), was pretty sweet.
I put the Overcome 1.2.2 ROM on my Tab, an extra 16gb mem card, and have installed a crap ton of apps to test its limits.
Thus far, the device has not slowed down.
It's usable in all lighting conditions, and the battery life is quite impressive.
I get that everyone pushes Apple products because they're the greatest thing since a toaster(and mildly more useful. ), but with the Tab you get freedom, functionality, and portability.
I call that a win-win.
I feel that Galaxy tab is much more impressive, I am impressed by the openness of Android and how you can manipulate it with only a little effort.
Plus, iOS is a shame, with a huge portion of its apps being paid ones, go for the Tab if it gets only a bit more expensive but 800 is way pricier to be sold.
roy8846 said:
Wifi Galaxy Tab will be more like $400 max..
Would you not consider a used/new 3G Galaxy Tab.
The 7" design is great for portability and adding 3G completes the Tab imo..
If its for household use only I would say IPad..
Bear in mind I only own a Tab though not an IPad lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where can you get one for $400?
Digiguest said:
Well This is what I think:
iPad 2:
Much more secure
Closed Source
Nicer Screen
NOT PORTABLE DUE TO BIGGER SIZE.
Galaxy Tab 7
Not very secure ( Thank you you SOB's....your day will come ) but still more secure than Windows.
It is PORTABLE ( Can fit into pocket )
You can customize it/Flash it
All in all the Galaxy Tab is a winner IMHO. 7 inches is the PERFECT size ( pls no "****" jokes ) for being more portable and customisation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean by not very secure?
PhelanPKell said:
Just got the Tab on Thursday. Bought it outright.
Got the Bell Mobility model so I could put my internet keys' SIM into it.
Two things impressed me:
1.) Using Z4Root I rooted my Tab in seconds and it was simple. (Article on the forums here with the apk)
2.) The fact that I could unlock the device for free with Roto's process (also on the forums), was pretty sweet.
I put the Overcome 1.2.2 ROM on my Tab, an extra 16gb mem card, and have
installed a crap ton of apps to test its limits.
Thus far, the device has not slowed down.
It's usable in all lighting conditions, and the battery life is quite impressive.
I get that everyone pushes Apple products because they're the greatest thing since a toaster(and mildly more useful. ), but with the Tab you get freedom, functionality, and portability.
I call that a win-win.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MAGPC said:
I feel that Galaxy tab is much more impressive, I am impressed by the openness of Android and how you can manipulate it with only a little effort.
Plus, iOS is a shame, with a huge portion of its apps being paid ones, go for the Tab if it gets only a bit more expensive but 800 is way pricier to be sold.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with both of you about Android. I suppose one of the main reasons I was even going to consider the iPad is the possibility of putting Android on it in the future
chrisz5z said:
Where can you get one for $400?
I agree with both of you about Android. I suppose one of the main reasons I was even going to consider the iPad is the possibility of putting Android on it in the future
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait, what? Why spend all that money on an ipad if you are just going to jailbreak it and put android OS on it anyway?
vamp6x6x6x said:
Wait, what? Why spend all that money on an ipad if you are just going to jailbreak it and put android OS on it anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Better quality hardware, bigger screen, and the prices are basically the same. Also openiboot dual boots iOS and android
Galaxy tab 10.1 is the same size screen as the ipad. And where is the documentation saying the ipad has better specs...
On most threads in all the blogs I've read, Galaxy tab beat the ipad hands down... Most threads say the ipad and tabs specs are pretty close with the main difference being screen size (also ipad has bigger battery with a bit better life, 10 hours versus 8). Nowhere did it say the ipad has better hardware...
Personally Apple hype up everything, had the ipod/iphone reps to expand their market with. They aren't any better than anything else out there, in fact I get the dirts with how limiting IOS really is.
If you want something that seems to be developed with the speed of continental drift go with the Ipad, if you want something thats open and can be altered, changed and played with then the Android Galaxy Tab is the go...
When Galaxy Tab 10.1 is released then Apple are REALLY gonna have a battle on their hands, there's a reason Android is liked and IOS isn't.
ultramag69 said:
Galaxy tab 10.1 is the same size screen as the ipad. And where is the documentation saying the ipad has better specs...
On most threads in all the blogs I've read, Galaxy tab beat the ipad hands down... Most threads say the ipad and tabs specs are pretty close with the main difference being screen size (also ipad has bigger battery with a bit better life, 10 hours versus 8). Nowhere did it say the ipad has better hardware...
Personally Apple hype up everything, had the ipod/iphone reps to expand their market with. They aren't any better than anything else out there, in fact I get the dirts with how limiting IOS really is.
If you want something that seems to be developed with the speed of continental drift go with the Ipad, if you want something thats open and can be altered, changed and played with then the Android Galaxy Tab is the go...
When Galaxy Tab 10.1 is released then Apple are REALLY gonna have a battle on their hands, there's a reason Android is liked and IOS isn't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i haven't been comparing the Tab 10.1 with the iPad, I'm referring to the 7" that has been out for a while. And by hardware I'm talking about the materials its made from, i.e. look/feel/build quality...i already know what the specs are
chrisz5z said:
i haven't been comparing the Tab 10.1 with the iPad, I'm referring to the 7" that has been out for a while. And by hardware I'm talking about the materials its made from, i.e. look/feel/build quality...i already know what the specs are
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also assumed you were comparing the iPad 2 to the Galaxy Tab 10.1 - I think that's a fairer comparison, for the original 7" Tab it's better to compare to the original iPad.
Between the Tab 10.1 and iPad 2 - I'm not sure, still deciding. But between the 7" Tab and the iPad - I went for the iPad, mostly for the bigger screen. If you go the way of the original iPad I'm sure you can pick up a mint condition one for a good price off eBay.
i think it all comes down to what kind of user you are. If you're the type that buys a Mac or any other decent pre build desktop computer and don't want to think about (read:don't understand) what goes on inside it, get the iPad/iPad2. If you're into building the desktop computer from scratch get the galaxy tab/android .
mic_888 said:
I also assumed you were comparing the iPad 2 to the Galaxy Tab 10.1 - I think that's a fairer comparison, for the original 7" Tab it's better to compare to the original iPad.
Between the Tab 10.1 and iPad 2 - I'm not sure, still deciding. But between the 7" Tab and the iPad - I went for the iPad, mostly for the bigger screen. If you go the way of the original iPad I'm sure you can pick up a mint condition one for a good price off eBay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well my main thing is price. I've been reading that the 10.1 Tab could be around $800, i dont' wanna spend that much. I've seen the 7" Tab for around $500, and the iPad 2 is $500 for the wifi version.
Hmm idk, i think it'd be wise to wait for the 10.1 Tab's official price. If its around $500 then i'll get that, if not then i'll just try n find a cheap used 7" Tab or iPad
I appreciate everybody's input
pawces said:
i think it all comes down to what kind of user you are. If you're the type that buys a Mac or any other decent pre build desktop computer and don't want to think about (read:don't understand) what goes on inside it, get the iPad/iPad2. If you're into building the desktop computer from scratch get the galaxy tab/android .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not so!
I used to put my own PCs together, but simply can't be bothered any more, so now I own Dells and Macs. However, I choose Android for my phones and tablets mostly because I dislike the control Apple exerts over its mobile platform.
Regards,
Dave
I have the galaxy tab, but the ipad 2 is better.
- dual core
- nicer screen
- netflix
- more RAM (i think)
- apple's market
- smoother and more refined
for me basically it lies on the OS itself
yeah sure, iPad looks / screen is better, but in term of hardware u can't possibly say that iPad 2 hardware is superior coz AFAIK, the chip is manufactured by samsung, and the storage drive is toshiba's
the fast that you saw based solely on the simplicity of the OS itself
you're doomed, not being able to do / mod anything like you wanted to, but in the bright side, you get stability and speed
same iPad hardware but running android wouldnt feel the same way i think, only my opinion though
how hard the process needs to be to provide square beside square beside square and that it opens up when you touch?
my suggestion is go for what you need, and make your own +/-, coz in the end you'll be the one using it ^^
Justin^Tan said:
but in term of hardware u can't possibly say that iPad 2 hardware is superior coz AFAIK, the chip is manufactured by samsung, and the storage drive is toshiba's
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a strawman argument. Samsung don't even make the Tegra 2 chips that will power the Tab 10.1. They have a processor, the Exynos (which I suspect is very similar to the A5), but they are using the Tegra 2 because (a) it's the Honeycomb reference platform, and (b) chances are that they don't have sufficient production capacity to satisfy both A5 and Exynos demand.
Just because Apple don't make every single component in their devices (they don't even "manufacture" their own devices anyway), doesn't mean that they don't produce superior hardware (in most cases).
A product's hardware is almost always more than the sum of its parts - it's also how well it is designed and put together. The only time when this is generally not the case, is cheap Chinese clones, which are often less than the sum of their parts!
Regards,
Dave
I think you wouldn't go wrong with either.
However, given you already have your apps in your android phone, you could stick with android, so you don't have to buy them all over, by getting into IOS.
Do you need microSD slot? Then get galaxy tab. Why not get Xoom?
Do you need a large screen? Then get Ipad.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App
a67543210 said:
I think you wouldn't go wrong with either.
However, given you already have your apps in your android phone, you could stick with android, so you don't have to buy them all over, by getting into IOS.
Do you need microSD slot? Then get galaxy tab. Why not get Xoom?
Do you need a large screen? Then get Ipad.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the thing. I love android, but to be honest am leaning towards the ipad2 because the Xoom doesn't seem appealing to me and from the looks of it the gTab 10.1 is going to be a xoom with better speaker placement and lack of a sd card slot.

[Q] Question about buying the Note

Hi Everyone,
I'm torn between buying one of the two super phones: Samsung Galaxy Note and the Samsung Galaxy Nexus / Google Nexus Prime.
I've done some research using Google about the phones.
ht tp://ww w.androidauthority. com/galaxy-note-vs-galaxy-s2-vs-galaxy-nexus-the-best-of-the-best-32011/
ht tp:/ /social-catalog. com/samsung-galaxy-note-vs-google-nexus-prime
ht tp:/ /versusio. com/en/google-nexus-prime-vs-samsung-galaxy-note
It is my understanding that the Note is superior from what I have understood:
1. Bigger Screen of the Note makes it really awesome visually
2. Marginally better resolution for the Note as well
3. MUCH longer battery life on the Note although it said it is because of the screen size which begs me to ask: does that mean in effect it will be the same as the Nexus Prime's?
4. Note will also get upgraded to ICS
5. Note and NP have both got great screens - Super AMOLED
6. Galaxy Note has a better camera
7. Galaxy Note does or does not have a MICRO SD slot? I have read mixed reports on this. But, I am assuming both have that option of expandable memory. Am I correct?
Given all this I am concluding that the Note is a much better phone.
Am I right? Or am I missing something crucial? I don't "have" to buy a phone right now so is there another better phone with quad core coming out? I don't want to buy the phone and then 2 months later or in Q2 2012 have a new Quad core phone come out.
What do you guys think?
Please help me out here
Of course it has Micro SD slot..
And you are missing one of the best part.. THE "S PEN"
If u keep waiting for somthing better,u'll never able to buy anything..and the nexus is just better than the note in term of being a bit more compact than the note...if you want to buy a good phone buy the galaxy note...update to latest custom firmware and you get an ultimate device...mine iz coming day aftr tommorow..yipeee
ranjan.alva said:
Of course it has Micro SD slot..
And you are missing one of the best part.. THE "S PEN"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I forgot about that. I just presumed I'd lose the S Pen because it will fall out all the time.
I have a question: Is the battery life good? Right now I'm using the SGS1 and I need to charge my battery 2-3 times a day. I use it for calls, texts, whatsapp, gtalk and a bunch of other apps including OfficeSuite, etc. What do you think?
jai147 said:
If u keep waiting for somthing better,u'll never able to buy anything..and the nexus is just better than the note in term of being a bit more compact than the note...if you want to buy a good phone buy the galaxy note...update to latest custom firmware and you get an ultimate device...mine iz coming day aftr tommorow..yipeee
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is true: there is no need to keep waiting for something new. I just wanted to know if something new WAS around the corner Thank you for your help.
Nothing new around except the quad core acer tablet which mayb launched in near future...and we expected some quad core phones at ces 2012 but nthing like dat..so u can go for the galaxy note
If you take away ICS from the galaxy nexus i think it is a mediocre phone in comparison with the note.
The note has the better hardware and specs and when receiving ICS the difference will only get bigger!
gee2012 said:
If you take away ICS from the galaxy nexus i think it is a mediocre phone in comparison with the note.
The note has the better hardware and specs and when receiving ICS the difference will only get bigger!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+10
About the battery life, with calls, texts, whatsapp, gtalk and a bunch of other apps including OfficeSuite it will last a day.
Intensive use such as Internet browsing in 3G: 9 hours.
jai147 said:
Nothing new around except the quad core acer tablet which mayb launched in near future...and we expected some quad core phones at ces 2012 but nthing like dat..so u can go for the galaxy note
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh wow. Thank you! This is exactly what I wanted to know
gee2012 said:
If you take away ICS from the galaxy nexus i think it is a mediocre phone in comparison with the note.
The note has the better hardware and specs and when receiving ICS the difference will only get bigger!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome. Wow...so much positive reviews on this phone. Thank you.
_A.T.Omix_ said:
+10
About the battery life, with calls, texts, whatsapp, gtalk and a bunch of other apps including OfficeSuite it will last a day.
Intensive use such as Internet browsing in 3G: 9 hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay. This is important to note and I'm fine with 9 hours. LOL...When I use all this on my SGS1, the battery lasts 2-3 hours and then it's time to charge. Most annoying.
Thank you everyone. I think my decision is made. I'm buying it as soon as I get my paycheck
gee2012 said:
If you take away ICS from the galaxy nexus i think it is a mediocre phone in comparison with the note.
The note has the better hardware and specs and when receiving ICS the difference will only get bigger!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the GSM Galaxy Nexus prior to selling for the Note. Had the GNEX had Gingerbread on it people would be *****ing up a storm. ICS is neat but can't fix the average hardware of the GNEX. The Note is superior in every way.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
anuj247 said:
1. Bigger Screen of the Note makes it really awesome visually
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Yes it really does.
anuj247 said:
2. Marginally better resolution for the Note as well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true. Both screens are 800x1280 SAMOLED PenTile displays. The larger 5.3" screen on the Note actually makes for a lower overall PPI compared to the GNexus though. That said, the absence of hardware buttons on the GNexus means that you have less usable screen real estate most of the time. So, in that sense, yes, the GNote does have a higher resolution (as far as what you can actually use most of the time).
anuj247 said:
3. MUCH longer battery life on the Note although it said it is because of the screen size which begs me to ask: does that mean in effect it will be the same as the Nexus Prime's?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't have any hands-on experience with the GNexus, so I can't speak for that of course, but I CAN say that the GNote's battery performance is much better than I expected it to be. Suffice to say, it's way better than my old SGS2 if that helps any.
anuj247 said:
4. Note will also get upgraded to ICS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It would seem to be a very poor business decision on the part of Samsung if they didn't (eventually) release an official ICS update. In the mean time, the good people over on the CyanogenMod team have been working hard at providing us with an AOSP ROM in the form of CM9. It's in an early Alpha build stage for now, but knowing them, it'll only continue to get better! Patience is the key here.
anuj247 said:
5. Note and NP have both got great screens - Super AMOLED
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep! And despite all the hoo-haa about them being PenTile etc, blah blah blah, fact of the matter is, they look absolutely stunning. Period. (And to all you PenTile naysayers, QUIT NIT-PICKING!! If it looks good, it IS good!)
anuj247 said:
6. Galaxy Note has a better camera
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
8MP > 5MP. Same camera present on the SGS2, and that one has deservedly received high praise!
anuj247 said:
7. Galaxy Note does or does not have a MICRO SD slot? I have read mixed reports on this. But, I am assuming both have that option of expandable memory. Am I correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not only does it HAVE a micro SD slot, but apparently it can take bigger than 32GB cards as well (provided you format them to FAT32 first!)
anuj247 said:
Given all this I am concluding that the Note is a much better phone.
Am I right? Or am I missing something crucial? I don't "have" to buy a phone right now so is there another better phone with quad core coming out? I don't want to buy the phone and then 2 months later or in Q2 2012 have a new Quad core phone come out.
What do you guys think?
Please help me out here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's my advice:
The Note is a fantastic device, hands down. If you want it, get it. If you don't want it, don't get it. There will ALWAYS be something newer and better sometime down the road, be it one month from now, or six, or whenever. So you may as well get what you want, when you want it, and enjoy it while you have it.
Even though quad-core phones may be right around the corner, the 1.4ghz Exynos chip is no slouch by any means. In fact, I would go so far as to say that there simply is no better dual-core chip on the market today that beats it all around. Exynos really is best-in-class as it is.
But, in the end, it's your money, and your choice!
I was in the same exact dilemma and ended up with both the Note and Nexus. After one day of using the Nexus, I am selling it and keeping the Note.
Battery life is very subjective, I'd have to say the Note SEEMS better, but to be sure I have a spare battery handy. No use owning an awesome phone if you turn off its key features, huh?
I actually like the zero lag camera on the Nexus, but the produced shots are not as good as the shots I make on the Note. And if I missed it, I didn't see a "macro" focus option on the Nexus- this is important to me.
The Note doubles as a tablet for me. Ater using the Note for the past several weeks, I just find the Nexus' screen estate too small. If you compare the Nexus' screen area to the GS2, they end up the same because of the onscreen buttons of the Nexus that takes up space.
Don't get me wrong- the Nexus by itself is a superior phone, in my opinion. It seems ICS was truly made for this phone- no lags when I was using it, multi tasking on ICS is easier, and of course, it is easier to carry in your hand due to the smaller size.
In fact, if I could truly afford to keep both phones, I would- the Nexus is often viewed as a novelty phone because of its exclusivity with Google, and the plain vanilla experience of ICS. I hope that the ICS version for the Note won't be too bastardized, because the ICS I experienced on the Nexus is by far, the best OS I have ever used on a phone.
Still- I ended up with the Note. No regrets- and loving the device more each day! Hope this helps you. Let us know what you decide.
I suppose I forgot to mention in my previous post, but the compromise you make with getting a Nexus device is that you may not have the absolute cutting edge hardware, but you will always be first in line for the most cutting edge software from Google.
Take your pick! ):
Wow, you guys are simply awesome!!!!
I'm sorry I'm taking so long to respond.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
Yes. Yes it really does.
Not true. Both screens are 800x1280 SAMOLED PenTile displays. The larger 5.3" screen on the Note actually makes for a lower overall PPI compared to the GNexus though. That said, the absence of hardware buttons on the GNexus means that you have less usable screen real estate most of the time. So, in that sense, yes, the GNote does have a higher resolution (as far as what you can actually use most of the time).
Don't have any hands-on experience with the GNexus, so I can't speak for that of course, but I CAN say that the GNote's battery performance is much better than I expected it to be. Suffice to say, it's way better than my old SGS2 if that helps any.
It would seem to be a very poor business decision on the part of Samsung if they didn't (eventually) release an official ICS update. In the mean time, the good people over on the CyanogenMod team have been working hard at providing us with an AOSP ROM in the form of CM9. It's in an early Alpha build stage for now, but knowing them, it'll only continue to get better! Patience is the key here.
Yep! And despite all the hoo-haa about them being PenTile etc, blah blah blah, fact of the matter is, they look absolutely stunning. Period. (And to all you PenTile naysayers, QUIT NIT-PICKING!! If it looks good, it IS good!)
8MP > 5MP. Same camera present on the SGS2, and that one has deservedly received high praise!
Not only does it HAVE a micro SD slot, but apparently it can take bigger than 32GB cards as well (provided you format them to FAT32 first!)
Here's my advice:
The Note is a fantastic device, hands down. If you want it, get it. If you don't want it, don't get it. There will ALWAYS be something newer and better sometime down the road, be it one month from now, or six, or whenever. So you may as well get what you want, when you want it, and enjoy it while you have it.
Even though quad-core phones may be right around the corner, the 1.4ghz Exynos chip is no slouch by any means. In fact, I would go so far as to say that there simply is no better dual-core chip on the market today that beats it all around. Exynos really is best-in-class as it is.
But, in the end, it's your money, and your choice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sold
anakin1979 said:
I was in the same exact dilemma and ended up with both the Note and Nexus. After one day of using the Nexus, I am selling it and keeping the Note.
Battery life is very subjective, I'd have to say the Note SEEMS better, but to be sure I have a spare battery handy. No use owning an awesome phone if you turn off its key features, huh?
I actually like the zero lag camera on the Nexus, but the produced shots are not as good as the shots I make on the Note. And if I missed it, I didn't see a "macro" focus option on the Nexus- this is important to me.
The Note doubles as a tablet for me. Ater using the Note for the past several weeks, I just find the Nexus' screen estate too small. If you compare the Nexus' screen area to the GS2, they end up the same because of the onscreen buttons of the Nexus that takes up space.
Don't get me wrong- the Nexus by itself is a superior phone, in my opinion. It seems ICS was truly made for this phone- no lags when I was using it, multi tasking on ICS is easier, and of course, it is easier to carry in your hand due to the smaller size.
In fact, if I could truly afford to keep both phones, I would- the Nexus is often viewed as a novelty phone because of its exclusivity with Google, and the plain vanilla experience of ICS. I hope that the ICS version for the Note won't be too bastardized, because the ICS I experienced on the Nexus is by far, the best OS I have ever used on a phone.
Still- I ended up with the Note. No regrets- and loving the device more each day! Hope this helps you. Let us know what you decide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. Thank you to ALL of you, actually.
I am itching to buy the Note. I'm just waiting for this month's paycheck but if I don't get it in January I will buy it in February for sure.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
I suppose I forgot to mention in my previous post, but the compromise you make with getting a Nexus device is that you may not have the absolute cutting edge hardware, but you will always be first in line for the most cutting edge software from Google.
Take your pick! ):
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah this is what I've understood as well. I think I will go for the Note. I want the bigger screen and everything you and Anakin have said are drawing me more and more to the Note.
Note it is. Once I buy it, I'll update this thread
Thank you!!!!
anuj247 said:
Hi Everyone,
I'm torn between buying one of the two super phones: Samsung Galaxy Note and the Samsung Galaxy Nexus / Google Nexus Prime.
I've done some research using Google about the phones.
ht tp://ww w.androidauthority. com/galaxy-note-vs-galaxy-s2-vs-galaxy-nexus-the-best-of-the-best-32011/
ht tp:/ /social-catalog. com/samsung-galaxy-note-vs-google-nexus-prime
ht tp:/ /versusio. com/en/google-nexus-prime-vs-samsung-galaxy-note
It is my understanding that the Note is superior from what I have understood:
1. Bigger Screen of the Note makes it really awesome visually
2. Marginally better resolution for the Note as well
3. MUCH longer battery life on the Note although it said it is because of the screen size which begs me to ask: does that mean in effect it will be the same as the Nexus Prime's?
4. Note will also get upgraded to ICS
5. Note and NP have both got great screens - Super AMOLED
6. Galaxy Note has a better camera
7. Galaxy Note does or does not have a MICRO SD slot? I have read mixed reports on this. But, I am assuming both have that option of expandable memory. Am I correct?
Given all this I am concluding that the Note is a much better phone.
Am I right? Or am I missing something crucial? I don't "have" to buy a phone right now so is there another better phone with quad core coming out? I don't want to buy the phone and then 2 months later or in Q2 2012 have a new Quad core phone come out.
What do you guys think?
Please help me out here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I would be in your situation I would buy the xphone
Unfortunately it is only available in german (with spanish subtitle i think?!?!)
NO, I had both devices and just gave the nexus prime back and hold the note.
If you will wait for a better phone, you will never own one.
Go to a store where both are available and touch the devices and if you don't have a problem with the big size of the note, choose the note
It is better anyway, in my opinion the note is better on every point
no the sd-card slot is only on the note, not on the nexus

CNET declares Tab S 5th best product out of 100!

Thats not just 5th best tablet. Thats 5th best consumer technology product of any kind and the top pure tablet on the list. Considering CNET's love affair with Apple this is impressive.
http://www.cnet.com/products/samsung-galaxy-tab-s-10-5-inch/
Not bad. Quite happy as well with the 8.4 myself after tweaking it a bit here and there. Super AMOLED is mostly the reason I keep getting Samsung stuff, if only other Android based brands would provide Super AMOLED as well and give Samsung some competition, ie LG. I only know LG as the other brand who does OLED products.
Yes. Once you have gone super amoled on an Android device it is hard to go back to LCD. Windows devices allow us to dial down the gamma which gives just as good blacks as amoled, but until Android allows that as well, amoled is your only option for truly black blacks.
Sent from my SM-T700 using XDA Free mobile app
@jball yeah I still have the S III. It's collecting dust though. I moved on to the S V. You still rockin the S III?
Y.G. said:
@jball yeah I still have the S III. It's collecting dust though. I moved on to the S V. You still rockin the S III?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please start an S3 thread in the S3 forum if you wish to discuss the S3.
Sent from my SM-T700
mitchellvii said:
Please start an S3 thread in the S3 forum if you wish to discuss the S3.
Sent from my SM-T700
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was just answering a question (seems to be deleted now). Not trying to derail your thread breh.
Just stopped by BestBuy to look at the Surface Pro 3. Is it just me or does that thing look and feel cheap? Hated how it felt in my hands. Definitely too big for a tablet. And the screen doesn't come close to the Tab S. Super Amoled has spoiled me forever.
Sent from my SM-T700
mitchellvii said:
Just stopped by BestBuy to look at the Surface Pro 3. Is it just me or does that thing look and feel cheap? Hated how it felt in my hands. Definitely too big for a tablet. And the screen doesn't come close to the Tab S. Super Amoled has spoiled me forever.
Sent from my SM-T700
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree. Somehow for me the 8-8.4 size in THE sweet spot for tabs. Got on board with SAMOLED when I bought the original "First" SAMOLED Sammy tab 7.7 a few years back. Got it up to 4.4 (thanks to Civato) and still like to play with it ever so often. Probably will never sell it. I read somewhere the 7.7 was the tab that got Apple all riled up at Sammy...lol! But this Tab S is just perfect!
skeeterpro said:
Agree. Somehow for me the 8-8.4 size in THE sweet spot for tabs. Got on board with SAMOLED when I bought the original "First" SAMOLED Sammy tab 7.7 a few years back. Got it up to 4.4 (thanks to Civato) and still like to play with it ever so often. Probably will never sell it. I read somewhere the 7.7 was the tab that got Apple all riled up at Sammy...lol! But this Tab S is just perfect!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really wanted to like the Surface Pro 3 but it just was so meh to me. Plus if you read the forums it has so many problems. Overheating, throttling, wifi drops, pen drops, touch drops. Just couldn't do it.
Even at the higher resolution the ppi is actually lower than the Surface Pro 2.
Sent from my SM-T700
mitchellvii said:
Just stopped by BestBuy to look at the Surface Pro 3. Is it just me or does that thing look and feel cheap? Hated how it felt in my hands. Definitely too big for a tablet. And the screen doesn't come close to the Tab S. Super Amoled has spoiled me forever.
Sent from my SM-T700
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Pro 3 isn't supposed to be compared to tablets like the Tab S. It's supposed to be compared to other ultrabooks and high-end laptops like MacBook Pros and Airs.
That being said, I don't think my Pro 3 feels cheap at all. It has a very, sturdy, premium feel to it.
I've haven't compared the screens since I only have the 8.4 and the Pro 3 is so much bigger. I do love the display on the Tab S though.
Sent from my SM-G900P using Tapatalk
I'm probably returning my 8.4.. It's slow in all tasks compared to my iPad Air.. battery life just drains when using it.. it gets hot. Android is still clunky on tablets.. iPads still do everything better in my opinion. If only Apple used this OLED panel on their iPads it would be perfect. .
For being the same price as a iPad Mini I don't see how this is a winner unless you have some aversion to iOS..
I know I must sound like a troll but this Samsung is just slow and choppy/lagging just browsing the web and yes i've tried a stripped, clean, deodexed rom as well which improved it marginally. The choice of a slow Exynos over a 801 Snapdragon is likely a reason, for a "premium" tablet and "premium" pricing Samsung went full derp on the CPU choice.
Most of my above complaints are 90% Android's fault, not Samsung.. If Android actually ran natively to hardware, it might actually smoke iOS in terms of smoothness and speed.
I think Android is far suited better to phones still, even after 3+ years of Android tablet history, it's still a bad experience.
Diversion said:
I'm probably returning my 8.4.. It's slow in all tasks compared to my iPad Air.. battery life just drains when using it.. it gets hot. Android is still clunky on tablets.. iPads still do everything better in my opinion. If only Apple used this OLED panel on their iPads it would be perfect. .
For being the same price as a iPad Mini I don't see how this is a winner unless you have some aversion to iOS..
I know I must sound like a troll but this Samsung is just slow and choppy/lagging just browsing the web and yes i've tried a stripped, clean, deodexed rom as well which improved it marginally. The choice of a slow Exynos over a 801 Snapdragon is likely a reason, for a "premium" tablet and "premium" pricing Samsung went full derp on the CPU choice.
Most of my above complaints are 90% Android's fault, not Samsung.. If Android actually ran natively to hardware, it might actually smoke iOS in terms of smoothness and speed.
I think Android is far suited better to phones still, even after 3+ years of Android tablet history, it's still a bad experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the market for the Tab S 8.4, after reading this, I'm not too sure anymore. Can anyone confirm? I havent used both device neither.
xaznxplaya said:
I'm in the market for the Tab S 8.4, after reading this, I'm not too sure anymore. Can anyone confirm? I havent used both device neither.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have any of the issues he's talking about, but I have the Tab S 10.5 (32Gb version) though I doubt they are much different performance wise.
In my case, it's as fast as my wife's iPad 3rd gen, but it has less issues than the iPad which was pissing me off quite often lately..
Battery life should last for weeks if not using it (dropping about 1-2% during the night).
Last time I charged it, it was about 3 days on battery, with a bit over 3 hours screen on time, and there was 72% battery remaining.
For me it's more than enough, I guess some people would need more but I'm ok with it.
Performance is great for me, I haven't had any complains.
Sure, there is sometimes a micro stutter, but they are pretty rare compared to my previous Android tablet.
All in all, it's very nice to use, I'm not thinking about the performance of the device when I'm using it, so I guess that means it's fast enough for me
It boots very fast too if turned off, the sound is better than the iPad 3rd gen, and the screen is just in a league of its own, way ahead of the iPad's and other Android tablets.
There are sometimes Android related quirks like on phones (an app that crashes, etc..) but nothing that's really annoying, and it happens rarely.
I guess you should try it out yourself though (if using one in a store, be sure to kill everything first, as it most likely is filled with stuff in RAM) before making a decision.
I am probably a bit biased because I don't like the limitations of iOS to begin with (though I was using my wife's iPad quite a bit more than my Asus Transformer Prime for performance reasons, even if I was pestering about things I couldn't do on iOS when using it ), so I was waiting for a good Android tablet, but my wife actually wants to replace her iPad with a Tab S now.. she keeps using it when I leave it at home instead of her iPad.
Mithrandir007 said:
I don't have any of the issues he's talking about, but I have the Tab S 10.5 (32Gb version) though I doubt they are much different performance wise.
In my case, it's as fast as my wife's iPad 3rd gen, but it has less issues than the iPad which was pissing me off quite often lately..
Battery life should last for weeks if not using it (dropping about 1-2% during the night).
Last time I charged it, it was about 3 days on battery, with a bit over 3 hours screen on time, and there was 72% battery remaining.
For me it's more than enough, I guess some people would need more but I'm ok with it.
Performance is great for me, I haven't had any complains.
Sure, there is sometimes a micro stutter, but they are pretty rare compared to my previous Android tablet.
All in all, it's very nice to use, I'm not thinking about the performance of the device when I'm using it, so I guess that means it's fast enough for me
It boots very fast too if turned off, the sound is better than the iPad 3rd gen, and the screen is just in a league of its own, way ahead of the iPad's and other Android tablets.
There are sometimes Android related quirks like on phones (an app that crashes, etc..) but nothing that's really annoying, and it happens rarely.
I guess you should try it out yourself though (if using one in a store, be sure to kill everything first, as it most likely is filled with stuff in RAM) before making a decision.
I am probably a bit biased because I don't like the limitations of iOS to begin with (though I was using my wife's iPad quite a bit more than my Asus Transformer Prime for performance reasons, even if I was pestering about things I couldn't do on iOS when using it ), so I was waiting for a good Android tablet, but my wife actually wants to replace her iPad with a Tab S now.. she keeps using it when I leave it at home instead of her iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the feedback. I heard you can sync it to your s5 as well(receiving phone calls, etc... ) ?
xaznxplaya said:
Thanks for the feedback. I heard you can sync it to your s5 as well(receiving phone calls, etc... ) ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can indeed use sidesync with the Tab S and an S5
xaznxplaya said:
Thanks for the feedback. I heard you can sync it to your s5 as well(receiving phone calls, etc... ) ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed, that works fine as well, though I mostly used it to test out the feature, I haven't really had the need to use it, except once when I was too lazy to go get my phone that I forgot upstairs and wanted to check my sms messages
I am been thinking about getting a new tablet hopefully a Black Friday or Cyber Monday deal. I have S4 phone so I love Samsung products but been torn between Surface Pro 3 or the new 10.5 Tab S. After reading few posts here seems a few of you guys been doing same product comparisons. You seem to swaying me to the Tab... .
RonH54 said:
I am been thinking about getting a new tablet hopefully a Black Friday or Cyber Monday deal. I have S4 phone so I love Samsung products but been torn between Surface Pro 3 or the new 10.5 Tab S. After reading few posts here seems a few of you guys been doing same product comparisons. You seem to swaying me to the Tab... .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
let's say your going to pay full price or close enough to it.I would get the
"Tab pro" or a Nexus Tablet .this tablet is nice but the chip isn't the best compared to a Snapdragon in my opinion.not a big enough difference in clarity between Amoled and LCD also in my opinion. Oh and the biggest factor and why most of us are on XDA is the overall development
mitchellvii said:
Just stopped by BestBuy to look at the Surface Pro 3. Is it just me or does that thing look and feel cheap? Hated how it felt in my hands. Definitely too big for a tablet. And the screen doesn't come close to the Tab S. Super Amoled has spoiled me forever.
Sent from my SM-T700
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After selling my 32GB Amazon Fire HD 8.9", I also looked at the MS Surface Pro 3 at BB and was not impressed either! You're right, definitely felt cheap and is more overpriced than the Samsung Tab S. Once I saw the display on the Tab S, I was sold. I bought the 32GB 10.5" Tab S mid July and have not regretted the purchase at all!
jball said:
let's say your going to pay full price or close enough to it.I would get the
"Tab pro" or a Nexus Tablet .this tablet is nice but the chip isn't the best compared to a Snapdragon in my opinion.not a big enough difference in clarity between Amoled and LCD also in my opinion. Oh and the biggest factor and why most of us are on XDA is the overall development
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you compare this one to the Tab 4?

Tab S vs Tab 4 10.1 vs Tab Pro 12.2...which one?

Just saw four Sammy tablets at my local Costco:
Galaxy Tab 4 7": $160
Galaxy Tab 4 10.1: $300
Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2: $530
Galaxy Tab S 10.5: $480
I would like something bigger than 7". Can anyone give some pros and cons as to why I would choose a Tab S over Tab 4 10.1 or Tab Pro 12.2 (ignoring cost).
I have looked on some different techy sites for comparisons and am still none the wiser so figured the faithful at XDA would be able to give a real-world comparison/input as to why the different models would be chosen. The 12.2 seems huge - great for movies and other larger requirements, but I've heard the Tab S screen is exceptional.
Sigh...which one do I choose...?
Honest opinion #1
Any bigger than 8.4 you should just buy a laptop.
Snapdragon rules so that rules out the Tab S .
Go with the Tab Pro series
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=vigZOYJYnf8
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=xhsMFOwksAM
Nexus 5 via Tapatalk
Honest Opinion #2
I personally have bought the Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and previously had the Note 8. Now I cannot give you real life experience because mine is still in the mail but the reason why I chose it was to replace my current windows 8. I have a Samsung Smart 500t PC and it recently has crapped out so I decided to get a replacement. I ultimately chose the 10.5 for multiple reasons:
1. This is going to be my "main" mobile device, I am going to use it for work, meetings, etc. I wanted something more portable than a laptop but bigger than an 8.
2. From my research, the Tab 4 series doesn't have much support. In fact, looking for reviews from the "big" tech companies was difficult to find. I wouldn't want to get a device knowing that there isn't much support right off the bat.
3. Galaxy Tab S is the newest of the Samsung Tabs and thus has the highest chance of getting an Android L upgrade (if Samsung decided to do)
4. Of course the SCREEN is beautiful from what I have seen.
It was a bit pricey but you can find some good deals off of ebay. I got mine for about $439 new free shipping insured.
I'll add that I do own the Tab S 8.4 (SM-T700) and it is nice,it's just the future for kernels are limited.some who notice when I post I always mention that this Tab S is slick on AOSP
Got for Galaxy Tab S 10.5, nice screen.. perfect size for magazine reading as you dont need to keep zooming in and out.
Movies looks great. Very light to hold. Great cover
Cons: Exynos and hard to hold in protrait due to small bezel.
I went to a store and compared them all before I bought the tab s. The Note Pro 12.5 is great, but it's to heavy for me.
I was looking for a tablet for watching movies and reading comics on while chilling in bed
Pros
Tab S screen IS exceptional.
It's ultra thin and light.
Looks very stylish
Fast and smooth
Cons
The hardware buttons when in portrait mode due to the ultra thin bezel. (Yes it can be solved by rooting etc.) but there's really no need to have them on a tablet. As I read a lot on my tablets in portrait mode the back button really frustrates me and I keep closing my magazines and comics by mistake. Its no deal breaker however.
I cant really come up with any cons except that tbh
i love the screen on the tab s, i find it very easy on the eyes for reading and movies.
That and the weight is about all i love though. the rest is just ok.
What are you going to use it for? The Tab 4's have 1,280x800 displays which by today's standards are pretty poor and will be painful for reading text. The Tab 4 7 has 8GB of storage and the 10 has 16GB. With the way 4.4 manages external storage and some media apps only supporting internal storage 8GB is woefully inadequate and 16GB borderline. They both have just adequate CPU/GPUs and you'll feel the lack of power in multitasking and anything graphic intensive. You get what you pay for.
The 12" tablets are huge. I don't know how someone could seriously compare a 7" tablet and a 12" tablet. I have a 5.7" N3 so 10" is the sweet spot for me between screen real estate and portability. I'm a productivity user though so anything less than 10" is too small to get any serious creation or office work done. From a portability perspective the difference between 7-8.4" isn't a big deal - you're not going to stick any of them in your back pocket. 7" tablets, in my opinion, are just too small to really enjoy media and browse the web without constantly zooming pages to read them. Samsung's high-end tablets have a lot of s/w features (EG: Multiview, Scrap Book, eMeeting, SideSync, Hancom Office) that, even if available on the 4's, wouldn't perform well because of lack of SoC power and RAM.
So first, think about what's important feature and performance wise and then think about size. And really consider the display. The Pro's and S' have beautiful 2,560x1,600 displays with high PPI that really are a joy to view. Tab 4's not so much.
Here's a size comparison...
I wanted to add to this as I've owned a few tablets lately, right now I have the tab s 10.5. I had a tab pro 4 10.1, pass. You won't be happy. It's performance is OK but the screen isn't that great. Plus the lack of vibrate and light sensors just made it feel cheap, I sold mine for 60 bucks, no regrets. I had an iPad air for a bit but I took it back as I tend to leave a lot of things running and, I just didn't like it overall. Now, the tab s. Had it about a week and I've disabled a lot of things and I have apex installed. However I think it's the best tablet I've owned. It's perfectly fast, I've not had a single hiccup doing anything. I love the processor, personally. The screen is amazing although I dialed mine back to the basic setting I find it more accurate that way. Seriously, this was 500 bucks. I a most wish I could not like it so I could return it but I just can't find any faults. I've tried but this is one brilliant machine. I could live without the bloat but like I said I disabled most of it anyway and apex took care of magazine ux. Sure the benchmarks will show snapdragon doing better and even the iPad air but consider this:I found a review that showed the Puffin browser blew every browser away I'm benchmark tests. It wasn't even close so I took UC off and paid for puffin. It's performance was so abysmal I got a refund and put uc back on. I am very happy with the tab s. The titanium bronze just looks superb and it's overall performance is stunning. I didn't want to believe I could like something better than an iPad but Samsung hit it out of the park. If you have the money buy the tab s 10.5 and thank me later. Don't listen to anyone who doesn't have one.
jball said:
Honest opinion #1
Any bigger than 8.4 you should just buy a laptop....
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=vigZOYJYnf8
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=xhsMFOwksAM
Nexus 5 via Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me guess. You are under 50, right? Some of us really need that bigger screen. Of course there are plenty of other reasons for preferring a larger screen. All boils down to personal needs and preferences so blanket statements are always wrong for a certain percentage of users.
ratman6161 said:
Let me guess. You are under 50, right? Some of us really need that bigger screen. Of course there are plenty of other reasons for preferring a larger screen. All boils down to personal needs and preferences so blanket statements are always wrong for a certain percentage of users.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good guess but wow I didn't think I would hit a nerve. I am sorry I stated an "opinion" .I understand now why someone would want a bigger tablet
Nexus 5 via Tapatalk
mikelp1973 said:
I had a tab pro 4 10.1, pass. You won't be happy. It's performance is OK but the screen isn't that great. Plus the lack of vibrate and light sensors just made it feel cheap, I sold mine for 60 bucks, no regrets. I had an iPad air for a bit but I took it back as I tend to leave a lot of things running and, I just didn't like it overall.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All Samsung's high-end Wi-Fi tablets use the same Exynos 5420 CPU and Mail 628 GPU. The Pro 10.1 has 2GB of RAM vs. 3GB on the Tab S but I've never seen any multitasking complaints on the Pro forum. I've used all Samsung's high-end tablets on 4.4 from the N10.1-14 on. Those with M-UX are laggier than the N10.1-14 without it. The Pro's seem a bit more fluid than the S' but its most likely due to the S' using V1.0 video drivers where the Note/Pro's have been updated about four times. There's a ton of posts in various threads here where former Note/Pro users with Tab S' have commented on a perceived increase in lag in moving to the S. So your experience is definitely different. In using all the tablets none struck me as so different performance wise that I'd be swayed in to buying one over the other solely because of it. That includes S-800 vs. Exynos 5420 (caveat: I'm not a gamer).
Samsung's 2,560x1,600 LCD panels are great and have been rated so in objective testing. They draw less power overall than the AMOLED panels on the S' because their RGBW PenTile and do exceptionally better on whites which kill AMOLED battery life. Most productivity and creation apps utilize light backgrounds so the Pro's would be a better choice battery life wise for productivity and web users and heavy readers. There's no doubt the S' display blacks better and offer better contrast but it doesn't make Samsung's high-end LCDs cow dung either. I'm a heavy productivity user and the S' display would absolutely kill me.
Are you sure you had a Pro 10.1? This is from the T-520 manual...
Moral of the story is people should buy what makes them happy, draw their own conclusions based on hands-on time, and realize opinions (including mine ) are just that.
It was the tab 4 10.1 my apologies. When I bought this tab s btw I was lookng for the pro in 10.1 for $399. My thoughts were if they didn't have any I'd look for a laptop about in that range or just gwt another ipad air. But as she was unlocking the case I spotted "S". I had my credit card out before she pulled the box out. But the price being $499 almost stopped me which is why I compared it to the Air becau of price only. But I bought the S and like I said I keep the display on basic and disabled everything I could without root. I use Apex pro and I should also mention I use no widgets and a plain background. I do leave a lot of stuff running but still for me performace has been flawless. I can even attest to the WiFi being more powerful than the air as I'm on the road a lot and pick up wifi whereever I can and this is just been the best overall tablet experience I've had.
Yes I would agree the Amoled use more power overall but I keep everything I can themed dark. Also I had a nexus 10 and agree the LCD screens are brilliant. In many ways better
Amoled probably comes down to preference. Or for me I was on the road stopped at the first walmart I could find and they had one. I'm glad. I just wanted to heartily endorse the tab s (10.5). Maybe the only thing I could say is that I liked the feel of Apple's aluminum casing but the titanium bronze has a beauty all its own.
mikelp1973 said:
It was the tab 4 10.1 my apologies.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries; your experience being with a Tab 4 vs. a Pro explains a lot. With Samsung carpet bombing the tablet market it's very confusing to the consumer what they're actually buying. I think that's intentional to a degree.
This for $319 looks like a great deal...
...when compared to this for $499
And to the masses, maybe it is. Their standards are a lot lower than an XDA audience's.
Thanks very much for all the (informative and helpful) replies.
BarryH_GEG said:
With Samsung carpet bombing the tablet market it's very confusing to the consumer what they're actually buying. I think that's intentional to a degree.
Their standards are a lot lower than an XDA audience's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And this is why I came to XDA to ask opinions and suggestions -- I get real world helpful information rather than columns of comparisons on other sites which don't mean much. I'm just your average tablet user...but f I am going to save and buy one...I want to get the best bang-for-the-buck as I won't be buying a tablet every year!
IconBoy said:
Thanks very much for all the (informative and helpful) replies.
And this is why I came to XDA to ask opinions and suggestions -- I get real world helpful information rather than columns of comparisons on other sites which don't mean much. I'm just your average tablet user...but f I am going to save and buy one...I want to get the best bang-for-the-buck as I won't be buying a tablet every year!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the best all around is the pro 10.1 inch. Don't get the tab 4 it's $80 more for the pro and you get so much more, the display alone is worth the extra $. Like I said I love the tab S but it just so happened it's what they had. I would say it's well worth the asking price. Stunning 10.5 inch display, performance is stellar, much better than I expected. Had it about a week and I can't bring myself to return it. I returned the nexus 10, sold the tab 4 and returned the iPad air. I look for reasons it seems but I just haven't found a thing to dislike. I even tried since yesterday it just fits me too well.
I just realized the tab pro 10.1 isn't on the list. Get the tab S. Obviously I am biased, but happily.
i own the Tab Pro 10.1 which has better specs than the Tab 4 and also have the Tab S 10.5 and the difference from the extra 1GB Ram and the much updated Touchwiz version of the Tab S makes me not like the Pro 10.1 that much anymore. also the Tab S has much better accessory options in the case keyboard area.
if you are buying something to use for more than 1+ years than spend the money and get the S
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YHXahMDDXJ8
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=eqlAqk6om2s
moSess said:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YHXahMDDXJ8
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=eqlAqk6om2s
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i am not using a 3rd party keyboard (video 1)
or
a 3rd party launcher (video 2)
and so i am not having these issues with my Stock TW Tab S 10.5
not saying its your 3rd party apps but saying that is not my experience with my Tab S 10.5
fletch33 said:
i am not using a 3rd party keyboard (video 1)
or
a 3rd party launcher (video 2)
and so i am not having these issues with my Stock TW Tab S 10.5
not saying its your 3rd party apps but saying that is not my experience with my Tab S 10.5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this price point, and this late in the game in android, this is a joke!
A Joke.

What would you buy to replace your 8.4 Tab S ?

Love my Tab S but thinking on upgrading in the near future. What do you guys think is a honorable replacement?
Nothing.
There does not exist a comparable replacement. The Android tablet market made about three steps back since the Tab S series were released. Seriously.
Akopps said:
Nothing.
There does not exist a comparable replacement. The Android tablet market made about three steps back since the Tab S series were released. Seriously.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree!! Tab s 8.4 is my tablet for years now. I am bothered that I can't find a perfect rom for it to flash (some things do not work on each rom) but no matter how ofter I search for a replacement, I always go back to my conclusion: There is no tablet like this! And sometimes I wonder why Samsung made such a GREAT table THAT early. Even the next ones (Tab S2, S3 etc) are not THAT much of a leap forward. Either poor battery, or lower screen quality, or no IR etc etc... So currently I stick with my beloved Tab S 8.4.
Now...to find a new rom......
artocube said:
Totally agree!! Tab s 8.4 is my tablet for years now. I am bothered that I can't find a perfect rom for it to flash (some things do not work on each rom) but no matter how ofter I search for a replacement, I always go back to my conclusion: There is no tablet like this! And sometimes I wonder why Samsung made such a GREAT table THAT early. Even the next ones (Tab S2, S3 etc) are not THAT much of a leap forward. Either poor battery, or lower screen quality, or no IR etc etc... So currently I stick with my beloved Tab S 8.4.
Now...to find a new rom......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, S3 was a big leap forward in terms of SoC, but with its 600 dollar MSRP, what a poor value it was. And the S4 was good, but pricing completely mad. For that much money I can buy an entry level business class ultrabook. Tablet is great for media consumption, reading, and entertainment, but let's admit it's kind of a toy, it's not a business tool, and for what they offered the successive Tab S-line models were ridiculously overpriced. My Tab S 8.4 does feel kind of slow and I guess I could replace it when I see a tablet for better specs that's priced right, perhaps a heavily discounted Tab S4 during the holidays.
Akopps said:
Well, S3 was a big leap forward in terms of SoC, but with its 600 dollar MSRP, what a poor value it was. And the S4 was good, but pricing completely mad. For that much money I can buy an entry level business class ultrabook. Tablet is great for media consumption, reading, and entertainment, but let's admit it's kind of a toy, it's not a business tool, and for what they offered the successive Tab S-line models were ridiculously overpriced. My Tab S 8.4 does feel kind of slow and I guess I could replace it when I see a tablet for better specs that's priced right, perhaps a heavily discounted Tab S4 during the holidays.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, for me a tablet IS a business tool as I use it twice a week (or more) for talks and presentations. And furthermore I like the 8.4" size and am not fond of bigger screens. Unfortunately Samsung doesn't release any decent small-sized tablets anymore. All the good stuff (RAM, CPU etc) exist on the bigger S3, S4, S5. The 8-inch-sized S and S2 were the only ones that did the trick for me. And currently upgrading to an S2 is not a good idea I believe. My (older) S 8.4 has better screen resolution, bigger battery, IR support... So yeah, I stick with it, for a little while at least. I really hope Samsung releases a smaller Tab S5 or (future) S6 (If that is even a thing) on a 8" form factor. I would really like to upgrade this sometime. Until then, it is the best table I ever had. Not gonna change it.
artocube said:
Well, for me a tablet IS a business tool as I use it twice a week (or more) for talks and presentations. And furthermore I like the 8.4" size and am not fond of bigger screens. Unfortunately Samsung doesn't release any decent small-sized tablets anymore. All the good stuff (RAM, CPU etc) exist on the bigger S3, S4, S5. The 8-inch-sized S and S2 were the only ones that did the trick for me. And currently upgrading to an S2 is not a good idea I believe. My (older) S 8.4 has better screen resolution, bigger battery, IR support... So yeah, I stick with it, for a little while at least. I really hope Samsung releases a smaller Tab S5 or (future) S6 (If that is even a thing) on a 8" form factor. I would really like to upgrade this sometime. Until then, it is the best table I ever had. Not gonna change it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huawei is still making nice high end tablet with 8 inch screen (Mediapad M6), but sadly because of trade war, we're not going to see it on our shores.
Akopps said:
Nothing.
There does not exist a comparable replacement. The Android tablet market made about three steps back since the Tab S series were released. Seriously.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I replaced my T-800 with the Tab S4 when Best Buy was blowing them out at $260 or less this past Christmas.
While my Tab S was very sexy and I had the Logitech Type S keyboard I loved it very much it was a no brainer upgrading at that point.
Here is my thread explaining the $260 sale:
https://slickdeals.net/f/13607677-s...-s4-64gb-tablet-wi-fi-black-260-in-store-ymmv
I would expect the S6 is about to go on deep discount soon so I would be on the look out if you're in the market for a new Samsung Tab.
I just sold off my T-800 in perfect shape, I do plan to hold onto my T-700 as Samsung just does not make sexiness like that any longer.
Hi guys I recently tried to understand whether it was possible to replace my Tab S 8.4 LTE and... I'm astonished. Android tablets are dead. I paid 350€ for this tablet at launch so taking into account 6 years of technological development I was expecting to find at the same price the following specs: 64-128gb of storage, 8gb of ram, same screen since oled technology had some troubles advancing, modern high end processor, a camera with not necessarily more pixels but with less noise and more details, no IR because we don't use TVs anymore.
What I found instead was: crappy low end overpriced tablets, with barely any ram, and no advancements whatsoever in productivity applications. The obvious choice would be to go for an x86 Windows tablet... But I don't dare to run Windows with less than 16gb of ram (any browser uses 5-6gb of ram to begin with with my usage scenario) and onestly those tablets have poor battery life and there are no small tablets to begin with. This leaves only the ipad mini... Which I had terrible experience with (ipad mini 2 was dropped from support and update very quickly and became slow as hell with the last updates it received).
Do you guys have any suggestion? Huaway is out of the question... I don't want to be caught in a stupid useless war.
There is no suitable replacement. I use mine as a phone and there is just nothing with as large a display that has an earpiece that you can hold up to your face and make calls with. I now own 3, 2 working, so I have spare parts as bits break.
Actually that is a usage scenario that happened a couple of times. My phone was temporarily down (anything from a bricked rom to a simply drained battery) and I always simply took the sim out of it, stuck into the tablet and continued my day with no problems whatsoever. Before buying this tablet I was super into the Asus transformer line. A phone that you insert in a screen that becomes a tablet with additional battery life, then you attach the keyboard and bump in terms of productivity. They where unreasonably costly to begin with had bad software support, and super died probably because the company got more money selling separate devices. I tried to create my own version of it with a raspberry pi but it was obviously very clunky.
hi you all!
i have been researching about this subejct and found this thread...
i was also looking into replacing my 8 inch tab S tablet but havent found anything good out there... and i thought tablets were getting better and better each release... like cellhphones...
seems like the 8 inchers are forgotten by the manufacturers... its sad...
my tablet works, sometimes i think it is slow... i guess i keep on comparing to my cell galaxy s10e...
i have the ORIGINAL keyboard that locks into the tablet... i loved this keyboard since it came out! such an awesome design...
anyway... i was thinking above the Huawei MediaPad M6 8 inch... but cant decide...
iPostNak3d said:
hi you all!
i have been researching about this subject and found this thread...
i was also looking into replacing my 8 inch tab S tablet but haven't found anything good out there... and i thought tablets were getting better and better each release... like cellphones...
seems like the 8 inches are forgotten by the manufacturers... its sad...
my tablet works, sometimes i think it is slow... i guess i keep on comparing to my cell galaxy s10e...
i have the ORIGINAL keyboard that locks into the tablet... i loved this keyboard since it came out! such an awesome design...
anyway... i was thinking above the Huawei MediaPad M6 8 inch... but cant decide...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi There is no replacement to our beloved tablet except for the Huawei Mediapad. Chuwi does make a very compelling android tablet with keyboard... but it is way bigger than the Tab S 8.4.
If you don't mind a slightly shorter screen-on time with your current battery you can change the CPU governor to something more performing. That coupled with a thermal mod gave a totally new life to my tablet (I was close to trashing it before these 2 things together). Now its running so great that I'm tempted to buy a new battery ( or 2 batteries hacked up together) and go on with it for a couple more years.
knosso said:
Hi There is no replacement to our beloved tablet except for the Huawei Mediapad. Chuwi does make a very compelling android tablet with keyboard... but it is way bigger than the Tab S 8.4.
If you don't mind a slightly shorter screen-on time with your current battery you can change the CPU governor to something more performing. That coupled with a thermal mod gave a totally new life to my tablet (I was close to trashing it before these 2 things together). Now its running so great that I'm tempted to buy a new battery ( or 2 batteries hacked up together) and go on with it for a couple more years.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you using a custom rom?
Tab S 10.1
Princeland said:
Are you using a custom rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi yes I'm using the latest Lineage OS Deathly (android 7.1). The rom is probably close to its EOL since there is much less activity and updates. ROM. I've undervolted the tab and put an aluminium bar on the SOC to stop it from overheating... I would not describe the experience as high end but it's way better than before. The same developer made roms also for the WIFi only model and for the 2 bigger models.

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