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[SOLVED!] Very dissapointed with LTE Samsung Phablets, any opinions please?

NOT DISSAPOINTED ANYMORE BOUGHT A SM-T715Y AND EVERYTING WORK FINE NOW, THANKS TO ALL
Hi, i bought this 3 Samsung Phablets
sm-t235y one year ago
sm-t705 3 months ago
sm-t715c yesterday
Im really dissapointed with this devices, all 3 devices are SUPPOSED to be LTE but none of them got LTE on US T-mobile. I understand its because of LTE bands, but im really frustrated cant get a phablet that works in LTE, its crazy, i know about businness model and LTE band for each region of world, but have no any other choice of buying this models because US version of this LTE devices has no phone capability.
H+ data seems not be as reliable as LTE, i have a Galaxy Note 4 provided by T-Mobile and LTE works really great on it! <10ms ping, better coverage, duble as fast as H+ download and uploads speed
I notice difference in Skype or Whatsapp calls the difference between LTE and H+ . Because of that i want to get a LTE working phablet.... i use a lot voip calls
sh-t715c is a very new device so there is no too much information but i have seen that sm-715 (not the sm-715c) in some pictures, seems to have proximity sensor and US LTE bands, it is true?
Any opinions will be welcome because im little lost, and dont know
*When i talk about LTE im talking not about just the LTE icon... im talking about for example... lower ping times than 40ms (on all this devices ping time is +-40ms) and (HOPE) better data service coverage with less interruptions.
Thanx in advance
NOT DISSAPOINTED ANYMORE BOUGHT A SM-T715Y AND EVERYTING WORK FINE NOW, THANKS TO ALL

What you are describing isn't Samsung's fault. Basically, it was your choice to purchase this specific model (815C). You could have purchased the T-Mobile specific model (817T) which has all of T-Mobile's LTE bands or the an unlocked AT&T model (817A) or an unlocked Canadian model (817W) which also have all of T-Mobile's bands or the international unlocked model (815N) which has T-Mobile's main LTE bands (and possibly all of them, which is what I have been trying to verify in this thread but no one has replied to it). The 815N goes for $539 on Amazon. If you are in a non-LTE band 12 area for T-Mobile then the 815N version will work just as well as the 817T, A or W versions on T-Mobile. If you are in a band 12 area then I would strongly advise to purchase the 817T, or unlocked A or W models.
In other words, the only advice anyone can give you is... if you really want good performance on T-Mobile, you need to buy a variant which supports it.

to further clarify..if you are looking for LTE AND voice calling then you should get (have got) the international version as the carriers block out the cellular voice calling (sure wifi-based skype etc always exist) at least that has been the practice all along upto the previous generation (not Samsung's fault..for that matter the Ipad mini lte does not have cellular voice calling either).

@mac231us, what is the full Samsung model number of your s2 and what is the model's FCC ID? (if it's not listed on the box or device then it should be listed under regulatory information under the about device menu under the system menu).

T815Y has LTE on ATT's network here in the states. I have one myself.
This one from this seller to be exact.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281786597546?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

ProStreetCamaro said:
T815Y has LTE on ATT's network here in the states. I have one myself.
This one from this seller to be exact.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281786597546?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With respect to the OP, unfortunately there is no band 12 on the Y variant.

myphone12345 said:
What you are describing isn't Samsung's fault. Basically, it was your choice to purchase this specific model (815C). You could have purchased the T-Mobile specific model (817T) which has all of T-Mobile's LTE bands or the an unlocked AT&T model (817A) or an unlocked Canadian model (817W) which also have all of T-Mobile's bands or the international unlocked model (815N) which has T-Mobile's main LTE bands (and possibly all of them, which is what I have been trying to verify in this thread but no one has replied to it). The 815N goes for $539 on Amazon. If you are in a non-LTE band 12 area for T-Mobile then the 815N version will work just as well as the 817T, A or W versions on T-Mobile. If you are in a band 12 area then I would strongly advise to purchase the 817T, or unlocked A or W models.
In other words, the only advice anyone can give you is... if you really want good performance on T-Mobile, you need to buy a variant which supports it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi myphone12345, i think you did not read me in deept or i have been not so clear
1-first of all, i have to say that i think that i could not use a 10 inches tab as a phone as you said... if i choose this models was because i like a phone between 7 and 8.4 max inches can fit in my pocket (they fit)... you recommend a 9.7 phone.... would have to keep phone on on hand or a bag.
2-In other hand, you recommend me to but a T-Mobile specific model (817T)... that, my friend, is not a phone... it is a tablet, it does not have speaker on front beside the front camera.... and again 9.7 inches....
3-Obviusly a tmobile device will have all of T-Mobile's LTE bands... thats my point... i want to a 7 to 8.4 phablet.... i mean a tablet with real phone capabilities, i know skype, google voice, and all voip and no... dont want that want to use a regular phone
I conclusion, in my opinion there is no samsung phablet 7 to 8.4 inches that work with all real lte bands and have real phone capabilities

mac231us said:
to further clarify..if you are looking for LTE AND voice calling then you should get (have got) the international version as the carriers block out the cellular voice calling (sure wifi-based skype etc always exist) at least that has been the practice all along upto the previous generation (not Samsung's fault..for that matter the Ipad mini lte does not have cellular voice calling either).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dont understand friend, these are all international versions with LTE (not us LTE) and voice calling.... talking about sm-t715c specifically, i can make calls, use data service, but not real LTE speeds like as example my galaxy note 4.... all sm-t715c works great only problem is it has not LTE.... just H+.... and im talking about some "malificent" deals betwen samsung and companies like tmo att verizon... that samsung does not sell devices with US LTE because samsung obviusly has a big bussines with these carriers so samsung "help" tmo att verizon to users have to buy his devices....
but..... when a mad guy like me want a phablet, cant find one, because all samsungs tablet on tmo, att and verizon DOES NOT HAVE REAL VOICE CALL CAPABILITIES... just check all of them has not the speaker on front at side of camera...
do you understand my point? sorry if im not so clear my english is not so good

myphone12345 said:
With respect to the OP, unfortunately there is no band 12 on the Y variant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, as i said above.... it sounds great... but cant fit on my pocket... looking for a 7 to 8.4 one...

ProStreetCamaro said:
T815Y has LTE on ATT's network here in the states. I have one myself.
This one from this seller to be exact.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281786597546?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, as i said above.... it sounds great... but cant fit on my pocket... looking for a 7 to 8.4 one...

myphone12345 said:
@mac231us, what is the full Samsung model number of your s2 and what is the model's FCC ID? (if it's not listed on the box or device then it should be listed under regulatory information under the about device menu under the system menu).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
check on attached files.... thanx

wallyhenderson said:
dont understand friend, these are all international versions with LTE (not us LTE) and voice calling.... talking about sm-t715c specifically, i can make calls, use data service, but not real LTE speeds like as example my galaxy note 4.... all sm-t715c works great only problem is it has not LTE.... just H+.... and im talking about some "malificent" deals betwen samsung and companies like tmo att verizon... that samsung does not sell devices with US LTE because samsung obviusly has a big bussines with these carriers so samsung "help" tmo att verizon to users have to buy his devices....
but..... when a mad guy like me want a phablet, cant find one, because all samsungs tablet on tmo, att and verizon DOES NOT HAVE REAL VOICE CALL CAPABILITIES... just check all of them has not the speaker on front at side of camera...
do you understand my point? sorry if im not so clear my english is not so good
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am confused too now...lol (sorry)
anyway...this much I know
my t715 (not C, Y etc) just T715 gets LTE on ATT (I have checked and let alone all the checking from all my experience using the tab S T805, Tab pro T325, Huawei Honor mediapad x2 gem-703, sharp sh-06f, Tab 4 7.0 sm-t235, oppo find 5, xperia ultraz, Chinese 7 inch mediatek-based phablet, and other NON-U.S carrier-branded devices (yes device junkie), this is the only device that I have used-again talking from among the non-u.s carrier-branded devices that I have used...this is the only device aside from oppo find 5 and the ultra z that actually does LTE (from checks AND how it FEELS speed-wise)...others all managed like H+
bands are LTE (B1)2100/(B3)1800/(B7)2600/(B8)900/(B28)700 MHz
---------- Post added at 06:03 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:58 AM ----------
wallyhenderson said:
check on attached files.... thanx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would this be the Chinese version of the t715 (hence the C...sorry if late to the discussion here or missed something already communicated)
https://translate.google.com/transl...UMqaxD5pZefME%2BH%2BnKk9SbX97MmDB&prev=search
Link above from TENAA (China equivalent of the U.S. FCC)
says Network frequency 900MHz, 1800MHz, 2GHz, Band 38, Band 39, Band 40, Band 41 (2555-2575 MHZ, 2575-2635 MHZ, 2635-2655 MHZ), Band 1, Band 3,1.9GHz, I
if so, (maybe?) it could explain the difference in bands/speeds versus the other international t715?
I see the C version is being sold on Amazon here in the U.S

@walleyhenderson, what @Mac231 and I are trying to say is that if you got the SM-T715Y or SM-T715N instead of the SM-T715C then you would have had both LTE and voice calling in most places with T-Mobile (and all places with AT&T).
What you wouldn't have had is band 12 with T-Mobile but that is not T-Mobile's main LTE band and it may not even be deployed where you are anyway.

myphone12345 said:
@walleyhenderson, what @Mac231 and I are trying to say is that if you got the SM-T715Y or SM-T715N instead of the SM-T715C then you would have had both LTE and voice calling in most places with T-Mobile (and all places with AT&T).
What you wouldn't have had is band 12 with T-Mobile but that is not T-Mobile's main LTE band and it may not even be deployed where you are anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ohhh i understand now... thats what im looking for... but sadly... i been searching on google... and cant find where to buy SM-T715Y or SM-T715N, do you know any place to buy any of these? what do you recommend SM-T715Y or SM-T715N
thanx

Where are you located? I can sell you mine.

wallyhenderson said:
Ohhh i understand now... thats what im looking for... but sadly... i been searching on google... and cant find where to buy SM-T715Y or SM-T715N, do you know any place to buy any of these? what do you recommend SM-T715Y or SM-T715N
thanx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can easily find it on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Galaxy-T715-Black-International/dp/B0124SAQLI

According to what I can gather, as is the same as it's predecessor the Tab S, the international version is simply called SM-T715/T815. The T715n or T715no is a Korean model.
International versions don't usually have a letter after the model number.
My Tab S is an international version and is simply called a SM-T805.
I agree it's real confusing as to which model is which.

ashyx said:
According to what I can gather, as is the same as it's predecessor the Tab S, the international version is simply called SM-T715/T815. The T715n or T715no is a Korean model.
International versions don't usually have a letter after the model number.
My Tab S is an international version and is simply called a SM-T805.
I agree it's real confusing as to which model is which.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They all usually do have letters after the model name, it's just that it isn't always listed everywhere. Also, "N" is just the first letter. Meaning, that the full model number is actually SM-T715NZKEDBT for the black one and SM-T715NZWEDBT for the white one. Those are the variants of the Tab S2 8" LTE tablet that Samsung officially sells in Germany for example. Not sure where the SM-T715YXXXXX model is officially destined to by Samsung (my guess would be South America).

myphone12345 said:
They all usually do have letters after the model name, it's just that it isn't always listed everywhere. Also, "N" is just the first letter. Meaning, that the full model number is actually SM-T715NZKEDBT for the black one and SM-T715NZWEDBT for the white one. Those are the variants of the Tab S2 8" LTE tablet that Samsung officially sells in Germany for example. Not sure where the SM-T715YXXXXX model is officially destined to by Samsung (my guess would be South America).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm gonna see if I can find the boxes to my tab s and tab a to see if I can confirm this.
Even Samsung themselves don't add the n to any of their international firmwares or source code, however they do for the rest.
The only official firmware with the n variable is Korean.

ashyx said:
I'm gonna see if I can find the boxes to my tab s and tab a to see if I can confirm this.
Even Samsung themselves don't add the n to any of their international firmwares or source code, however they do for the rest.
The only official firmware with the n variable is Korean.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The full Samsung model number of the black LTE 8" S2 Korean variant is SM-T715NZKEKOO. It supports the same bands as the European variant I mentioned above.

Should I get the US unlocked Note 8 or the International Dual Sim one?

I have AT&T and I'm considering on purchasing a Note 8 but the slow updates and the lack of color options on the US variants of this phone has really deterred me from it. I was thinking about buying the international variant of the phone but I've heard that it does not support Band 30 and has issues with LTE( at least with T-Mobile). What are your guys' verdict on this issue and is Band 30 really THAT important for AT&T?

Midnight black 512 GB version for tmobile

Where can I find one that'll work with tmobile?

You'd have to purchase an international unlocked version from a website like clove.co.uk
When you check out there is an option for them to open the box and insert a local sim card to unlock the device for use in other markets.

Looking for the same thing. Is there a reliable online US source for the 512gb black Note 9? Also what will we be losing by getting an unlocked version, I guess besides video calling on TMobile? TMobile Tuesday..?

dominick_7 said:
Looking for the same thing. Is there a reliable online US source for the 512gb black Note 9? Also what will we be losing by getting an unlocked version, I guess besides video calling on TMobile? TMobile Tuesday..?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app from the Google Play Store.
It works on any phone,provided you have a T-Mobile account.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.tuesdays&hl=en_US
Same goes for T-Mobile DIGITS,just grab the app from the Play Store,log-in & set-up.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.digits&hl=en_US
As for what you'll be losing?
LTE Band71
Not sure how well an international version works as far as signal strength/WI-FI Calling/VoLTE,but,my guess would be to go with a dual SIM version that has the QUALCOMM Snapdragon chip vs the Samsung Exynos Chip:
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 8GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...2a:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930713601
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 6GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...57:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521918316706
********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Samsung EXYNOS 8 GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...15:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930711183
Samsung EXYNOS 6 GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...ff:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=502408235508

KOLIOSIS said:
You can download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app from the Google Play Store.
It works on any phone,provided you have a T-Mobile account.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.tuesdays&hl=en_US
Same goes for T-Mobile DIGITS,just grab the app from the Play sSore,log-in & set-up.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tmobile.digits&hl=en_US
As for what you'll be losing?
LTE Band71
Not sure how well an international version works as far as signal strength/WI-FI Calling/VoLTE,but,my guess would be to go with a dual SIM version that has the QUALCOMM Snapdragon chip vs the Samsung Exynos Chip:
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 8GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...2a:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930713601
Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 6GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...57:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521918316706
********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Samsung EXYNOS 8 GB RAM/256GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...15:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=521930711183
Samsung EXYNOS 6 GB RAM/128GB ROM:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...ff:m:mFp3KmUg-oF2jvLgEK2Vr_A&var=502408235508
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, thank you for clarifying. About the band, are you sure, people are reporting it has LTE band71? Also do we know which is better, the Snapdragon for the 8gb version or Exynos for 6gb? I guess there's only root for the exynos, but I haven't rooted in years and not sure I'll mess with it.

dominick_7 said:
Cool, thank you for clarifying. About the band, are you sure, people are reporting it has LTE band71? Also do we know which is better, the Snapdragon for the 8gb version or Exynos for 6gb? I guess there's only root for the exynos, but I haven't rooted in years and not sure I'll mess with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know the US Qualcomm has Band 71,but,every site,including Samsung's sites in overseas Qualcomm markets,do not show Band 71.
Perhaps once the T-Mobile US SIM Card is installed,it's activated,if that's even possible,with or without flashing T-Mobile US Firmware...... & IDK if T-Mobile US Firmware can be flashed on an international Qualcomm model.
It's still early in the game, surely someone will post here @ XDA in the coming days.
I'd like to know myself, so that I'm armed with the information for next year's Note 10.

Canada has an unlocked black model that uses the same bands as the US. Not sure about band 71, but probably the closest you'd get compatibility wise.

KOLIOSIS said:
I know the US Qualcomm has Band 71,but,every site,including Samsung's sites in overseas Qualcomm markets,do not show Band 71.
Perhaps once the T-Mobile US SIM Card is installed,it's activated,if that's even possible,with or without flashing T-Mobile US Firmware...... & IDK if T-Mobile US Firmware can be flashed on an international Qualcomm model.
It's still early in the game, surely someone will post here @ XDA in the coming days.
I'd like to know myself, so that I'm armed with the information for next year's Note 10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah k. So does that mean even if I buy the 8gb 512gb unlocked version from say Best Buy in the US it won't have band 71? Otherwise it sounds like the ideal situation would be if the TMobile firmware can be flashed to the international model? I guess Im wondering, are all 512gb unlocked versions lacking that band or just ones not bought in the US like from Best Buy? I know I want the 8gb 512gb version, in black if possible, but if Im without band 71 I can deal with the stupid blue colored one as long as I have the 8gb/512gb version. They seem to be saying VoLTE and wifi calling works on the unlocked version.. does that mean it has band 71? https://forums.androidcentral.com/s...208-carrier-vs-unlocked-note-9-questions.html.

dominick_7 said:
Ah k. So does that mean even if I buy the 8gb 512gb unlocked version from say Best Buy in the US it won't have band 71? Otherwise it sounds like the ideal situation would be if the TMobile firmware can be flashed to the international model? I guess Im wondering, are all 512gb unlocked versions lacking that band or just ones not bought in the US like from Best Buy? I know I want the 8gb 512gb version, in black if possible, but if Im without band 71 I can deal with the stupid blue colored one as long as I have the 8gb/512gb version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure the US Unlocked version has Band 71,it's just not available in Black,at least for now.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Edit:
@dominick_7
Band 71 is not listed on Best Buy's specs.
Looks like your best bet is to wait for others to post their experiences, or,contact Samsung/check their site.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-galaxy-note9-128gb-unlocked-ocean-blue/6278210.p?skuId=6278210
EDIT #2
@dominick_7
Here's another site stating the US Unlocked version does indeed have Band 71,so you'll definitely have to do your homework before buying:
https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/

KOLIOSIS said:
I'm pretty sure the US Unlocked version has Band 71,it's just not available in Black,st least for now.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Edit:
@Dominick
Band 71 is not listed on Best Buy's specs.
Looks like your beet bet is to wait for others to post their experiences, or,contact Samsung/check their site.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-galaxy-note9-128gb-unlocked-ocean-blue/6278210.p?skuId=6278210
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah k. So safest bet for the 512gb variant is either the US carrier/tmobile for quickest updates but stupid colors and bloatware or thee US unlocked for slower updates but less bloatware..? What's the argument to get an unlocked version over carrier otherwise? I guess the price for getting it in black is no 71 band. Still looking at the canadian one to see if it has 71. https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/.
Edit.. crap. wait if these people are reporting the US unlocked has VoLTE and wifi calling doesnt that mean it has band 71 or..? https://forums.androidcentral.com/s...208-carrier-vs-unlocked-note-9-questions.html
---------- Post added at 10:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:25 PM ----------
Guyinlaca said:
Canada has an unlocked black model that uses the same bands as the US. Not sure about band 71, but probably the closest you'd get compatibility wise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, do you know what the model number is? And why go with unlocked, just for the black color and less bloat even though it may have slower updates?

KOLIOSIS said:
I know the US Qualcomm has Band 71,but,every site,including Samsung's sites in overseas Qualcomm markets,do not show Band 71.
Perhaps once the T-Mobile US SIM Card is installed,it's activated,if that's even possible,with or without flashing T-Mobile US Firmware...... & IDK if T-Mobile US Firmware can be flashed on an international Qualcomm model.
It's still early in the game, surely someone will post here @ XDA in the coming days.
I'd like to know myself, so that I'm armed with the information for next year's Note 10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
International models are exynos not Qualcomm

dominick_7 said:
Cool, do you know what the model number is? And why go with unlocked, just for the black color and less bloat even though it may have slower updates?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SM-N960WZKAXAC
https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product...12854642.aspx?

TechOut said:
International models are exynos not Qualcomm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's Qualcomm powered phones in China,Japan,Latin America & North America.
The rest have Exynos.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs

Guyinlaca said:
SM-N960WZKAXAC
https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product...12854642.aspx?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats not listed here, https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/ yet, and it seems thats the 128gb model though right?

The Canadian model probably has band 71. I don't know if anything has changed since T-Mobile's acquisition of band 71.

So annoying ghat the USA has odd bands compared to everyone else right?

mikey_sk said:
So annoying ghat the USA has odd bands compared to everyone else right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, I wish I could have purchased a black one without having to jump through all the hoops and risk it not working as well.

I've got the exynos 512/8 midnight black and I will be working in the USA for a few months. Wondering what network over there will be the best fit. Usually it's either T Mobile or ATT as they are GSM... But his band 71 gig means that I am effectively unable to use tmo 4g?

mikey_sk said:
I've got the exynos 512/8 midnight black and I will be working in the USA for a few months. Wondering what network over there will be the best fit. Usually it's either T Mobile or ATT as they are GSM... But his band 71 gig means that I am effectively unable to use tmo 4g?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No,T-Mobile has Bands 2/4/5/12/66/71
Band 71 deployment is sparse at best ATM.
Most of T-Mobile users are covered in the rest.
Depending on where you plan to use your phone the most is going to dictate who works best for you.
There is a lot of overlap in most densely populated markets,if you're going to be in the sparsely populated areas AT&T is probably your best bet.
Try out this site,it should give you a good indication of which carriers are best for you:
https://www.cellmapper.net/map
EDIT:
@mikey_sk
I've since edited to remove the VZW recommendation for rural areas,or,just in general,with your phone.
AT&T still likely has a slight advantage in rural areas,check the link I posted for a good indicator on which works best for you.
If you have the D/S version,then,of course you have the luxury of using both T-Mobile & AT&T,if you choose to do so.
Another BTW:
If you're going to be using a fair amount of data & are considering saving some $$$ by using pre-paid MVNOs of AT&T or T-Mobile,be aware all of them are subject to,if not outright,slower speeds vs the main carrier itself.
This is particularly true of any pre-paid option on AT&T & the MVNO's that use their network,read the fine print on any pre-paid service you choose,some have really slow speeds/throttling.
As for MVNO's/prepaid,your best bet is likely MetroPCS,which is actually part of T-Mobile US & most customers are genuinely pleased with the service/speeds & ovearll value.

KOLIOSIS said:
No,T-Mobile has Bands 2/4/5/12/66/71
Band 71 deployment is sparse at best ATM.
Most of T-Mobile users are covered in the rest.
Depending on where you plan to use your phone the most is going to dictate who works best for you.
There is a lot of overlap in most densely populated markets,if you're going to be in the sparsely populated areas AT&T is probably your best bet.
Try out this site,it should give you a good indication of which carriers are best for you:
https://www.cellmapper.net/map
EDIT:
@mikey_sk
I've since edited to remove the VZW recommendation for rural areas,or,just in general,with your phone.
AT&T still likely has a slight advantage in rural areas,check the link I posted for a good indicator on which works best for you.
If you have the D/S version,then,of course you have the luxury of using both T-Mobile & AT&T,if you choose to do so.
Another BTW:
If you're going to be using a fair amount of data & are considering saving some $$$ by using pre-paid MVNOs of AT&T or T-Mobile,be aware all of them are subject to,if not outright,slower speeds vs the main carrier itself.
This is particularly true of any pre-paid option on AT&T & the MVNO's that use their network,read the fine print on any pre-paid service you choose,some have really slow speeds/throttling.
As for MVNO's/prepaid,your best bet is likely MetroPCS,which is actually part of T-Mobile US & most customers are genuinely pleased with the service/speeds & ovearll value.
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Thanks. Yes I know they provide slower speeds to MVNOs over there. In Europe they dont really do this so pre paid is as quick as a contract sim. I am on Three UK and I can use my data (I have 100gb allowance per month) in the USA for free so will only be using the pre paid for receiving calls. I am therefore able to pick either T Mobile or ATT when I am over there depending which one is best etc.

Flashing T-Mobile firmware on Unlocked Note 9

I often come across encouraging posts about flashing T-Mobile firmware on unlocked phones, specifically Note 9 in this case, and not having any drawbacks since the hardware is the same. However, after doing further research I found that the picture isn't as rosy as it seems when it comes to flashing T-Mobile firmware to unlocked phones. Here are some specific questions:
Can I roam on U.S. cellular network if I flash T-Mobile firmware on unlocked Note 9?
Will I get T-Mobile OTAs if I flash T-Mobile firmware on unlocked Note 9?
I remember that despite hardware being the same, the Note 8 UNLOCKED had only 2x2 MIMO capabilities, however the T-Mobile variant had 4x4 MIMO. Is it the same scenario with Note 9 Unlocked vs Note 9 T-Mobile as well?
I am 90% sure that Band 71 exists on Unlocked Note 9; will I have access to all T-Mobile bands if I flash T-Mobile firmware?
As mentioned in this thread, the camera LAGS on the Unlocked Note 9 variant. If I flash the T-Mobile firmware, does that make the camera better?
Please feel free to inform me if I am missing anything other than VoLTE, Wi-Fi calling, DIGITS, RCS etc.
I understand, I should get the T-Mobile variant, but I am absolutely trying to avoid sending Samsung my phone for a trade-in, and don't want T-Mobile's bill credits for my phone trade-in. That's why I am interested in getting an Unlocked Note 9 and flashing a T-Mobile firmware on it.

tm2016 said:
I often come across encouraging posts about flashing T-Mobile firmware on unlocked phones, specifically Note 9 in this case, and not having any drawbacks since the hardware is the same. However, after doing further research I found that the picture isn't as rosy as it seems when it comes to flashing T-Mobile firmware to unlocked phones. Here are some specific questions:
Can I roam on U.S. cellular network if I flash T-Mobile firmware on unlocked Note 9?
Will I get T-Mobile OTAs if I flash T-Mobile firmware on unlocked Note 9?
I remember that despite hardware being the same, the Note 8 UNLOCKED had only 2x2 MIMO capabilities, however the T-Mobile variant had 4x4 MIMO. Is it the same scenario with Note 9 Unlocked vs Note 9 T-Mobile as well?
I am 90% sure that Band 71 exists on Unlocked Note 9; will I have access to all T-Mobile bands if I flash T-Mobile firmware?
As mentioned in this thread, the camera LAGS on the Unlocked Note 9 variant. If I flash the T-Mobile firmware, does that make the camera better?
Please feel free to inform me if I am missing anything other than VoLTE, Wi-Fi calling, DIGITS, RCS etc.
I understand, I should get the T-Mobile variant, but I am absolutely trying to avoid sending Samsung my phone for a trade-in, and don't want T-Mobile's bill credits for my phone trade-in. That's why I am interested in getting an Unlocked Note 9 and flashing a T-Mobile firmware on it.
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Click to collapse
At least 50% of what you "learned" was not true. Don't believe what you read on Reddit. Lots of idiots there. To answer your specific question: If you flash TMB firmware on your U1 device, it will become identical to anything sold in a T-Mobile store.
The only things you gain by using TMB firmware are video calling and digits integration. VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling have been on unlocked Samsung firmware for T-Mobile for at least 3 years. Digits is also usable on U1 if you're willing to use the standalone Play Store app.
The radio is the radio. There's no difference between U and U1.

Can this be done with the note 10+ as well? Flash the tmobile firmware on the unlocked exynos moldel to gain rooting power!
---------- Post added at 09:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:54 AM ----------
CrazyApe18 said:
At least 50% of what you "learned" was not true. Don't believe what you read on Reddit. Lots of idiots there. To answer your specific question: If you flash TMB firmware on your U1 device, it will become identical to anything sold in a T-Mobile store.
The only things you gain by using TMB firmware are video calling and digits integration. VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling have been on unlocked Samsung firmware for T-Mobile for at least 3 years. Digits is also usable on U1 if you're willing to use the standalone Play Store app.
The radio is the radio. There's no difference between U and U1.
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Click to collapse
Radio is radio?
What's are you thoughts about the note 5
?
I have the note 5 international model and the network always so slow 3g says 4g icon (not true) and calls go directly to voice-mail for the past 3 years while using on tmobile. How are the radios the same when I put the same Sim card in to the tmobile branded note 5 network works like it should.

Tried to flash note 5 tmobile firmware on international model. Failed

revized said:
Can this be done with the note 10+ as well? Flash the tmobile firmware on the unlocked exynos moldel to gain rooting power!
---------- Post added at 09:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:54 AM ----------
Radio is radio?
What's are you thoughts about the note 5
?
I have the note 5 international model and the network always so slow 3g says 4g icon (not true) and calls go directly to voice-mail for the past 3 years while using on tmobile. How are the radios the same when I put the same Sim card in to the tmobile branded note 5 network works like it should.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
revized said:
Tried to flash note 5 tmobile firmware on international model. Failed
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Click to collapse
u make no sense.
search and read.

What does not make sense about trying to flash tmobile firmware on international phone and that did not work?

revized said:
What does not make sense about trying to flash tmobile firmware on international phone and that did not work?
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Click to collapse
just even thinking of trying it is insane.
read b4 doing such things.
edit:
since about 4 years maybe more the US has snapdragon chips and the the international devices have exynos. you cant mix the 2.
btw ure odin is seeing 2 com ports....

Ok ok. I suppose I was misunderstanding the thread here
" Flashing T-Mobile firmware on Unlocked Note 9 "
I am trying this on a note 5 before buying a note 10 to avoid wasting money if the network is not going to work correctly. Again sorry i am such a noob.

revized said:
Ok ok. I suppose I was misunderstanding the thread here
" Flashing T-Mobile firmware on Unlocked Note 9 "
I am trying this on a note 5 before buying a note 10 to avoid wasting money if the network is not going to work correctly. Again sorry i am such a noob.
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Click to collapse
the thread is flashing n960u firmware on a device purchased unlocked with n960u1. they are both identical snapdragon devices.

Ha! Get trolled much?

I just checked the specs and wanted to ask what are your thoughts about the international note 5 and the t-mobile note 5 specs looking the same. Are these not identical devices as well? Attached is a screen shot of this.
N920T & N920I

revized said:
I just checked the specs and wanted to ask what are your thoughts about the international note 5 and the t-mobile note 5 specs looking the same. Are these not identical devices as well? Attached is a screen shot of this.
N920T & N920I
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contrarily as today's devices in america, it would seem that those two note 5 models have the same SoC.
maybe post in the note 5 forums your inquiries since these are the note 9 forums.

Ok I will do post my question there. Although I do have one question for this thread of anyone knows the answer it would be much appreciated. . Does the unlocked note 9 network work correctly on t-mobile? Or does it have unmissed calls sent directly to voicemail and cell data 3g only?

Note 9 exynos

Just wondering if there is a downside to using the 960F model in the U.S. I want root, so that's why i'm asking. By the way, i'm with T-Mobile. Thanks.

grunt0300 said:
Just wondering if there is a downside to using the 960F model in the U.S. I want root, so that's why i'm asking. By the way, i'm with T-Mobile. Thanks.
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You'll be missing some frequencies so that you won't have service in some areas where the US Tmobile phones would. But you'll never really know for sure, in some cases, if spotty service is due to phone incompatibility or just poor service, unless you can compare to a compatible phone. Also, you won't be able to change to a Tmobile CSC designed for the US, because there isn't one for the Exynos variant, which means you won't have Tmobile features like wifi calling, VoLTE, etc.
But you'll have root.
The reason I say all that is because I used the Exynos variant of the S7 on Tmobile for three years, and went through all those exact issues and more, such as missing calls, that went straight to voicemail, even while at home where I had LTE that would just drop off at times, and I pulled my hair out trying to fix the problem with better apn settings.
But I bought the Exynos for the 8 processors. That was dumb.
These days, the Note9 has 8 processors for both Exynos and Snapdragon, but the Snapdragon variant has a better GPU and better battery efficiency.
The Note9 SM-N960U1 (Snapdragon) US unbranded version is the nicest phone for the US market, and you get wifi-calling and VoLTE on Tmobile.
But you don't get root.
And this is the first phone with an OS so good, I don't want root.
Good luck!

gruuvin said:
You'll be missing some frequencies so that you won't have service in some areas where the US Tmobile phones would. But you'll never really know for sure, in some cases, if spotty service is due to phone incompatibility or just poor service, unless you can compare to a compatible phone. Also, you won't be able to change to a Tmobile CSC designed for the US, because there isn't one for the Exynos variant, which means you won't have Tmobile features like wifi calling, VoLTE, etc.
But you'll have root.
The reason I say all that is because I used the Exynos variant of the S7 on Tmobile for three years, and went through all those exact issues and more, such as missing calls, that went straight to voicemail, even while at home where I had LTE that would just drop off at times, and I pulled my hair out trying to fix the problem with better apn settings.
But I bought the Exynos for the 8 processors. That was dumb.
These days, the Note9 has 8 processors for both Exynos and Snapdragon, but the Snapdragon variant has a better GPU and better battery efficiency.
The Note9 SM-N960U1 (Snapdragon) US unbranded version is the nicest phone for the US market, and you get wifi-calling and VoLTE on Tmobile.
But you don't get root.
And this is the first phone with an OS so good, I don't want root.
Good luck!
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Click to collapse
Thanks. I think the downside outweighs the upside. For me, rooting is fun, but not that much fun. Maybe the OnePlus 6 would be a better buy, with less downside.