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Help me decide LG G2 or Nexus 5X

I've been awarded an insurance payout for my LG G2, a phone that I love and really don't have any problems with. I have the option of paying for LG to repair the device, or to apply the new funds to a new phone, I'm thinking the 5X. I'm torn between the two. The specs on the G2 have been more than enough for me. I'm envious of newer flagships cameras vs the G2... Though I'm not sure about the camera on the 5X.
I'm very interested in having OS updates directly from google, but truthfully, I'm also a heavy user of Xposed, and can't see myself being an early adopter of M anyway. I'm worried that the 2GB of ram and mid range processor on the 5X could pose a problem for future OS updates (Post Android M). I'm also curious about the G5, but given the form factor trend getting larger and larger, G3 and G4, I highly doubt they're going to to back to the smaller size that I love w/ the G2/Nexus5/Nexus5X. My most important factors are Camera, battery life, and form factor with a strong preference for future proofing/performance... aka ram and processor.
Given the choice of repairing the G2 for 150 dollars (and waiting for a future device down the road) or receiving 150 dollars off the purchase of a new Nexus 5X... what would you choose?

I was eagerly awaiting the announcement of the new nexus 5, but like many was disappointed with the result. It has a slight performance bump due to sd808/adreno418, a potentially better camera and a fingerprint sensor, but it's also physically MUCH bigger than the G2 despite the same screen size and yet also has a smaller battery. If I'm going to go with a bigger device overall, I'd rather have the bigger screen and battery to go with it.
I actually purchased a brand new (not refurbished) G2 relatively recently and am glad I did. I don't see many phones coming with the same size/performance balance. If I were you, I would take the money and see if I could find newish (not refurbished) G2 for less than $200. The key is getting a fresh battery, and there's no guarantee there with a refurb or repair. Look on swappa/eBay. This phone still has a lot of life left.

Have you considered the Moto X Pure Edition. I think it should check all your boxes and is only $20 more than the 5X.

yes, mach01, I think you're right, the Moto X seems the better buy vs the nexus, developer community aside. I'm back to leaning towards @xdabbeb's opinion though... getting the G2 repaired w/ a battery replacement. I'm wildly disappointed w/ LG's hardware support team, there doesn't seem to be any way for them to add a new battery to the repair... even after offering to pay for it. Might have a local shop in the area do it instead. I hope that the community doesn't drop dead for the G2.... I'd really like to get Doze (and android M) on the G2, but bigger and better devices are on the horizon, and I can't fault others for wanting to jump ship.

Let me just put it this way.... I have owned the G2 since it came out. Bought it brand new straight from Verizon the first week it was out if I recall correctly. I have used and abused it every day since then (2 years). Running xdabbeb's Rom with his kernel and xcam my G2 beat every phone that came out in 2014, in battery life, size, speed, and camera quality. Literally I couldnt find a decent excuse to upgrade. So solid. Then about a month ago my digitizer started going out. Couldn't swipe anymore. Thats a deal breaker for me. So I started looking. Ended up going with the Moto X Pure 2015 because I wanted front facing speakers and custom colors. And so far it has been a great choice. However comparing the phones side by side I would say the G2 still holds its own. Its my favorite 5 inch device still to this day. My favorite phablet is the new moto x. Anyways I say all that to throw my hat in with the G2 "best 5 inch phone award", especially with the modding community headed up by xdabbeb. Great stuff and still the 5 inch phone I would recommend for the money, as long as the person buying it is planning on modding it. Without modding it the phone is pretty laggy and has issues.
JT

Did you ever get to decide on which device u would move forward with? Am faced with the same dilemma u were facing a while ago.

Is there a way of telling a refurb Droid Turbo?

The red one I got off ebay sold as new has black side buttons not red buttons...
And although the red backing does have texture it has a little bit of flex if I push around the Motorola logo on the back...
Is the slight flexing normal and is it normal for the red model to sometimes come with black buttons not red?
And there was no Verizon SIM in the phone or box either. If the package was truly retail sealed then it would still have the SIM in it right mentioned in the package contents on the retail box?
I'm thinking these chinese are bull****ting me saying its sealed new but its refurbed and they just attach their own stickers to make it seem sealed/new.
Am I just being paranoid or is there any substance to it? Is there any software method that could tell a refurbed model?
Thanks.

I am certainly not an expert but I agree with you that it does not appear to be a new and unused one. SIM card detached from phone is not unusual, so can't tell just because of no SIM card.
I am not sure if Motorola/Verizon sell officially refurbished one, assuming they don't, you may check if the bootloader is unlocked. If yes, it would very likely be non-new one, as they do not unlock bootloaders. Otherwise, you may also check the version of android and ask the seller about when they get the handset. See if the dates match chronologically.
I am sorry that I do not have any more technical way to test. If I were you, I would ask for refund anyway if still can. Basically you cannot expect a new and unused one now, but you still can buy a used one much cheaper.
Oh, I am chinese too. No offense.

zhaoyun said:
I am certainly not an expert but I agree with you that it does not appear to be a new and unused one. SIM card detached from phone is not unusual, so can't tell just because of no SIM card.
I am not sure if Motorola/Verizon sell officially refurbished one, assuming they don't, you may check if the bootloader is unlocked. If yes, it would very likely be non-new one, as they do not unlock bootloaders. Otherwise, you may also check the version of android and ask the seller about when they get the handset. See if the dates match chronologically.
I am sorry that I do not have any more technical way to test. If I were you, I would ask for refund anyway if still can. Basically you cannot expect a new and unused one now, but you still can buy a used one much cheaper.
Oh, I am chinese too. No offense.
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I agree that it's not very likely there's any new/unused Droid Turbos out there in the wild. I mean, when the official model year was over and the Droid Turbo 2 (Kinzie) came out in late 2015 (the successor to Quark, which was a big disappointment -- smaller battery? still no rear camera OIS? Still no stereo speakers?) Verizon kept selling them for awhile, but in this is now 2017. If there were any stashes of unused Droid Turbos that were returned and then sold off to 3rd party wholesalers I'm sure they've been sold by now.
For example, the U.S. Moto Maxx XT1250 -- which is an exact clone of the Droid Turbo, event the exact same FCC ID and radio bands -- was sold by online discount wholesaler Jet for several weeks last year. (basically the "dev" version of the Droid Turbo with easily unlocked bootloader.) These were obviously from stock returned by the regional CDMA/LTE carriers who were selling the same phone as the Droid Turbo under another name. But now, you can't find any of those.
I still have a brand new Moto Maxx XT1225 in the box, my 3rd one I bought last spring (March/April 2015) new off eBay as a "backup" to my other two we use daily (which I bought in November and December 2014). But you can't find those any more either. Which is why I bought it when I did. Now, if I sell that 3rd one at some point before I ever have to use it, that one will still be NEW -- but then I'm not an eBay dealer promising many of these phones brand new. I think at this point in time (April 2017) there's none out there like that.
---------- Post added at 09:19 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:12 AM ----------
mrw187 said:
The red one I got off ebay sold as new has black side buttons not red buttons...
And although the red backing does have texture it has a little bit of flex if I push around the Motorola logo on the back...
Is the slight flexing normal and is it normal for the red model to sometimes come with black buttons not red?
I'm thinking these chinese are bull****ting me saying its sealed new but its refurbed and they just attach their own stickers to make it seem sealed/new.
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I think you basically paid for a "mint" refurbished Droid Turbo. How much did you pay and is it worth that to you for a professionally refurbished phone with no scratches, etc? Your alternative is to buy used off eBay/Swappa in various states of mis-use.
The three Quarks I own (XT1225, the "international" variant of the Droid Turbo with 64GB memory only) are ballistic nylon + kevlar, and there is no flexing. However, yours is Kevlar-only, if it's red. (All the ballistic nylon + kevlar Quarks were either black or blue.) The Kevlar-only are thinner than the ballistic nylon + kevlar -- which is why they have TWO different case sizes for the Quarks. Maybe the Kevlar-only ones have some flexing? Put a case on it, you won't notice.
Even though mine are the thicker Ballistic Nylon + Kevlar, I still keep cases on the two Quarks we use daily (to keep them as mint as possible). Mine is a Diztronics TPU absorption case. My wife's has a "hard shell" red plastic case she's busted TWICE by dropping her phone. This last time it happened I ordered a dozen of them (like $1 each) off some website, so if she keeps doing that I've got replacements. Plus, who knows how long they're going to keep selling cases for the ballistic nylon + kevlar Quarks? (which are different size from the kevlar-only backed Quarks.) Point is, that's corner drop impacts the case took instead of the phone.

ChazzMatt said:
I still have a brand new Moto Maxx XT1225 in the box, my 3rd one I bought last spring new off eBay as a "backup" to my other two we use daily. But you can't find those any more either. Which is why I bought it when I did. Now, if I sell it at some point before I ever have to use it, that one will still be NEW -- but I'm not an eBay dealer promising hundreds brand new.
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I don't mean to hijack this post, but would you share your plan on how much longer you intend to continue to use droid turbo? I am kinda paranoid on battery and this is quite the reason I chose droid turbo. I got mine which claimed to be brand new in June 2015 from a third party. The battery still looks good approaching two years of use and I can project its life for another year. As I live in Hong Kong and no one knows droid turbo, even if I can get a new battery online, I do not believe anyone including me have the ability to open the case and change the battery for me. I viewed videos from youtube and I admit that opening the case without damaging it is difficult.
It is a pity that while the spec is still not inferior as compared to the "flagships" today, we are unable to extend its life for long due to the battery. In fact, the hardware development in the recent couple of years is rather stagnant that when you buy a phone, you are just paying for a new battery for a phone with pretty much the same spec. I really wish to have some ideas on how I can make the life of my droid turbo longer.

ChazzMatt said:
I still have a brand new Moto Maxx XT1225 in the box, my 3rd one I bought last spring (March/April 2015) new off eBay as a "backup" to my other two we use daily (which I bought in November and December 2014). But you can't find those any more either. Which is why I bought it when I did. Now, if I sell that 3rd one at some point before I ever have to use it, that one will still be NEW -- but then I'm not an eBay dealer promising many of these phones brand new. I think at this point in time (April 2017) there's none out there like that.
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zhaoyun said:
I don't mean to hijack this post, but would you share your plan on how much longer you intend to continue to use droid turbo? I am kinda paranoid on battery and this is quite the reason I chose droid turbo. I got mine which claimed to be brand new in June 2015 from a third party. The battery still looks good approaching two years of use and I can project its life for another year.
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Well I have three of the XT1225, not the XT1254. But yes all Quarks have the same 3900 mAh battery, and except for internal memory variants (32GB or 64GB), they all have the same hardware specs. The XT1225 came in 64GB-only internal memory, while the XT1254 had options for 32GB or 64GB. The 64GB Quarks (whether XT1225 or XT1254) all came in Ballistic Nylon + Kevlar. The third Quark, the XT1250, only came in 32GB and with Kevlar-only.
I've kept this phone longer than any other I've ever owned. And I've been into Android phones since 2010, with the LG Optimus M. I always paid full price, never had a contract, upgraded every year or so to newer model and sold the old ones to recoup some of the cost. This is why the Nexus phones were so appealing (the gen3 Galaxy Nexus and the gen5 Nexus 5). They were top tier specs at a reasonable price brand new, and then could still command decent re-sell value later.
When Google really screwed up with the WHALE gen6 2014 Moto Nexus 6. Until then the number, if it was in the title was the generation model, NOT the screen size.
2010 gen1: HTC Nexus One was not 1". It was 3.7" (VERY close to 4"). "One" = FIRST Released end of January 2010.
2010 gen2: Samsung Nexus S was 4.0", 480p.
No number in the name. The only time Google released two Nexus phones the same calendar year. But it moved the release date of Google phones to the END of the year instead of the beginning.
2011 gen3: Samsung Galaxy Nexus, gen 3. 4.65", Super AMOLED 720p.
No number in the name, but first HD resolution Android. Made by Samsung and released halfway between their early 2011 Galaxy S2 and the 2012 Galaxy S3, the gen3 Galaxy Nexus was really a "Galaxy S2.5". It had a lot of the hardware specs/features the Galaxy S3 would have.
Halfway through the Galaxy Nexus model year, in June 2012 Google cut the price in half and started selling the unlocked phone online in its Google Store. This was the start of the "budget" premium phone reputation the Nexus brand had. The LG Nexus 4 and LG Nexus 5 continued this budget pricing.
2012 gen4: The LG Nexus 4 was NOT 4", it was 4.75" 720p. It was closer to 5" than 4", was the 3rd Nexus to be 4" or MORE -- but was the FOURTH Nexus phone. THAT is why it's called the Nexus 4. 4 = FOURTH
The LG Nexus 4 and the LG Optimus G were basically clones of each other, which hurt LG tremendously. Why would people pay $600 - $700 for the Optimus G in a carrier store when they could get the same phone for $350 in the Google Store?
[*]2013 gen5: The gen5 LG Nexus 5, was 4.95" -- just a little bigger than the 4.75" gen4 Nexus 4. It was the FIFTH NEXUS PHONE. Just coincidentally it was close to a 5" display, but that was just coincidence. 5 = FIFTH. (If Google wanted a 5.0" display, there were plenty available. They purposely chose a display UNDER 5.0". It was the Nexus 5 because it was the FIFTH NEXUS PHONE, PERIOD.)
Due to the Nexus 4/Optimus G mistake, LG tried to differentiate the LG Nexus 5 from the LG G2 by making the LG G2 be 5.2". But otherwise they were sibling phones with almost identical hardware specs. They were first phones to use the new Snapdragon 800, had 2GB RAM, and and among the first to have 1080p -- both with rear camera OIS. All cutting edge specs.
(2013 is the same year Motorola laughably released the first Moto X with 4.7", 720p display -- which was a direct copycat of LG's 2012 Optimus G/LG Nexus 4. LG and Motorola actually released both their flagship phones within a couple of weeks of each other. And Motorola did the same thing again in early 2014, producing an inferior COPY of the previous year's 2013 1080p LG G2 when LG released the 5.5" 1440p LG G3. Motorola was still playing catch up with specs, while LG had moved on -- which was why Google chose LG as their Nexus partner in 2013 even though they owned Motorola at the time. Motorola finally joined the big leagues in late 2014 with the duo of Shamu and Quark phones. The Quark especially was IMPRESSIVE. However, since Lenovo bought them they have regressed backwards, in my opinion. The 2015 Kinzie did not improve upon the two deficiencies of the Quark -- lack of stereo speakers and rear camera OIS. And the mod phones are silly, I want EVERYTHING I need in the phone to begin with -- including stereo speakers, Qi wireless and a big battery.)
THEREFORE, the 6th Nexus phone would only be the 6th phone, not necessarily 6 freaking inches. Until then, Google had actually taken display averages of the most popular mainstream phones to be the display new Nexus phone. This is why the 2013 LG Nexus 5 was 4.95" instead of 5.0" -- even though there were 5.0" displays available. No, I have no internal Google documents proving that but I did the math every year and I was always right. My math showed the average display for end of 2013 would be 4.948" and they released a 4.95" phone. My math showed the average display for end of 2013 would be 5.2" -- and Google instead released a 5.95" phone.
It was a HUGE mistake in 2014, and Google has admitted that by releasing increasingly smaller sizes in 2015 (5.7") and 2016 (5.5").
Yet, there's plenty of evidence, Google/Motorola was testing two Nexus 6 variants - a 5.2" Shamu as late as mid-August 2014 as well as the 5.95" Shamu whale. We saw the leaked benchmarks! Instead of releasing the more mainstream variant (5.2") or releasing BOTH (two sizes like Apple did first), Google screwed up and chose the whale. Motorola has even said more recently that Google made that disastrous decision against their own recommendations.
Motorola then released the 2014 5.2" Quark which has 95% the same specs as the Moto Nexus 6. It's clear it was either the repurposed 5.2" Shamu variant or was on very similar dual track development (like the 2012 LG Optimus G and LG Nexus 4, and the 2013 LG G2 and LG Nexus 5). Whatever, the Quark became MY Nexus 6. It's the best phone I have even owned (5.2" 1440p, 3GB RAM, Qi wireless, 64GB internal memory, 21MP camera, QuickCharge 2.0) and still holds up spectacularly. Only now in 2017 with phones like the Galaxy S8 do you see some aging. Yes, I wish the Quark had the stereo speakers and rear camera OIS the Nexus 6 has, and Motorola could have easily put those in considering the price they charged.
I bought the XT1225 for the LTE bands (I'm on AT&T) and for the 64GB memory.
Our two daily phones are still OK. But I can top off at work when I need to (I keep a QuickCharge 2.0 charger with 10-ft USB cable in my work bag), and I have QuickCharge 2.0 car chargers in both our cars for when we are driving. Since I always use Waze navigation app when driving, it's very battery intensive so I keep my phone plugged in.
How long will I keep using them? The LG G6 would have been a good replacement if LG had the sense to include ALL the premium features (Qi wireless charging, 64GB memory, DAC) in ONE phone and sell it to the world, instead of making regional variants. I'm not giving up Qi wireless charging and I'm not going to buy a phone with less than 64GB internal memory.
I'll keep using the Quark until it dies (and I have a new spare still in the box!) or until someone releases a phone that meets my standards...
The ZTE Axon 7 specs impressed me greatly (5.5", 1440p AMOLED, DAC, front facing speakers, 64/128GB internal memory, 4GB/6GB RAM, $400/$500) -- but there's no Qi wireless charging.
The Galaxy S8 has great specs (Qi wireless, 64GB, etc) , but unless I can root it to remove bloatware and install custom ROMs, I'm not touching it.
OnePlus 3T only has 1080p and no Qi wireless charging.
Maybe Google will come to their senses and release a good Pixel 2 phone later this year. I'm NOT impressed by last years Pixel phone which didn't even have Qi wireless charging. But it had HUGE bezels!
The 2018 LG G7 will have AMOLED, and maybe LG will realize we all want premium features. ZTE may release an Axon 8 with Qi wireless, plus all the stuff they crammed into the Axon 7.
or OnePlus may finally decide to join the Big Boys and release a phone with 1440p and Qi wireless charging.
zhaoyun said:
As I live in Hong Kong and no one knows droid turbo, even if I can get a new battery online, I do not believe anyone including me have the ability to open the case and change the battery for me. I viewed videos from youtube and I admit that opening the case without damaging it is difficult.
It is a pity that while the spec is still not inferior as compared to the "flagships" today, we are unable to extend its life for long due to the battery. In fact, the hardware development in the recent couple of years is rather stagnant that when you buy a phone, you are just paying for a new battery for a phone with pretty much the same spec. I really wish to have some ideas on how I can make the life of my droid turbo longer.
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Yeah, there was just an exchange about that battery replacement difficulty yesterday over in the RR 7.x thread:
gangrenius said:
I know about this before but I want to reask... has someone change their battery out yet? And if they did was it fairly easy? And how is the battery? And did it fix the random power off issues?
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NepoRood said:
Yes, no, great, no
IF you have a heat gun, it'll be easier to separate the phone (I hear). I took out the volume rocker (SIM card holder) and started separating there, it's a little hard to get the phone apart. It's not like it just "snaps", there's adhesive inside. I also jacked my headphone input a bit, but, it still works, so be careful around the top of the phone.
Also, left, right, and top come apart first, bottom last.
There are videos on the YouTube for it, which shows you step-by-step, just use Gooble
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Di5cip1e said:
I did. Its sort of a pain getting the cover off but I imagine it wouldn't be so bad if you had the proper tool. I saw on YouTube a guy used a guitar pick and it worked well. I ended up having to order a new cover for about $10 on eBay. I never had random power issues but just knew she was getting worn out.
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I paid $175USD.
also paid the $25 for sunshine.
Haven't had any problems apart from the phone getting a little hot after some tetris blitzing but that game did it to my flex 2 as well
and I'm quite enjoying the Open Kang 7.1
I can thrash the phone all day and I only need to charge it once or twice every 2 days
I guess I can't complain too much as long as it doesn't explode or cease to function...

mrw187 said:
I paid $175USD.
also paid the $25 for sunshine.
Haven't had any problems apart from the phone getting a little hot after some tetris blitzing but that game did it to my flex 2 as well
and I'm quite enjoying the Open Kang 7.1
I can thrash the phone all day and I only need to charge it once or twice every 2 days
I guess I can't complain too much as long as it doesn't explode or cease to function...
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It is operating quite well. Mine also gets very hot while playing games, but its already less hot after upgrading the marshmallow. All I can advise is enjoy the phone as it is, and just don't leave it unattended while charging.

ChazzMatt said:
The ZTE Axon 7 specs impressed me greatly (5.5", 1440p AMOLED, DAC, front facing speakers, 64/128GB internal memory, 4GB/6GB RAM, $400/$500) -- but there's no Qi wireless charging.
The Galaxy S8 has great specs (Qi wireless, 64GB, etc) , but unless I can root it to remove bloatware and install custom ROMs, I'm not touching it.
OnePlus 3T only has 1080p and no Qi wireless charging.
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Guess you could do Qi charging on the Axon with this ----> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M11UT3...e=df0&creative=395129&creativeASIN=B01M11UT3V
And then put a case over the whole thing.

What's your thoughts about this device ?

Asus recently announced their new flagship at a pretty aggresive price, for around 500$ you're getting an S845 with a big 19:9 ratio screen, dual camera, nice design ( maybe ruined by the notch ), you think the 5Z can compete with the Oneplus 6 ?

My opinion is that it's an iPhone X clone, there's no way around that. However, it's priced competitively and undercuts several SD845 devices. The only downsides really, would be Asus' track record with major OS updates, as well as their skin. I had the ZF2 3yrs ago and wasn't fond of their UI.
I'm sort of fascinated by the design, but I'm worried about development being DOA and the BL being locked. Also I want the normal ZF5 with the SD660 if it's below $300.

the specs looks good in my opinion.
maybe the only downside was the UI and development. ZF3 and ZF4 got only few roms.
but the device is running android Oreo now.
I'm eyeing now this device because of the wide angle lens, maybe this will be my replacement for my LG G5. I'm hating LG now for having select variants with unlockable bootloader and poor quality of the device.

cheeze.keyk said:
the specs looks good in my opinion.
maybe the only downside was the UI and development. ZF3 and ZF4 got only few roms.
but the device is running android Oreo now.
I'm eyeing now this device because of the wide angle lens, maybe this will be my replacement for my LG G5. I'm hating LG now for having select variants with unlockable bootloader and poor quality of the device.
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In the US you have to buy the carrier free variant, but development is lackluster for LG phones now. V20 and G5 have some support, whereas previous LG models such as the G2-G4 saw more development. Sorta doubt things will pick up for the V30.
I'm hoping the ZF5's price will attract devs, especially those from oneplus devices.

icloned. I personally will never buy a device which is copy of an iPhone. During the presentation they seemed proud of it, heck they even called it the Fruit Phone X. Asus has just lost it, as has all the other OEMs who copy the Apple notch whether it be Moto, Vivo, Xiaomi, Oppo, LG. I would rather switch to Apple instead.

Ace42 said:
In the US you have to buy the carrier free variant, but development is lackluster for LG phones now. V20 and G5 have some support, whereas previous LG models such as the G2-G4 saw more development. Sorta doubt things will pick up for the V30.
I'm hoping the ZF5's price will attract devs, especially those from oneplus devices.
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Hoping it also. :fingers-crossed:

Looking at price and specifications of the 5Z, as long as it's available with some kind of bootloader unlock then this is my preferred flagship beater. A single AOSP based rom like AICP or CRDroid for it and I'll be happy as long as we keep it up to date.

Gborg3 said:
Looking at price and specifications of the 5Z, as long as it's available with some kind of bootloader unlock then this is my preferred flagship beater. A single AOSP based rom like AICP or CRDroid for it and I'll be happy as long as we keep it up to date.
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This!
This phone looks like really good hardware and actually from what little ice read, I'm seeing that Asus have gone a lot closer to stock with the software as well.
If the bootloader can be easily unlocked then all it needs is one AOSP ROM (which given it will be treble enabled shouldn't be too hard) and we are a go.
I really do think this will be a good device for them. With treble being mandatory for all phones shipping with Android 8, it should take away a lot of anxiety from manufacturers who provide poor software updates as long as the bootloader can be unlocked
Sent from my OnePlus 5 using XDA Labs

well. we could ask the devs from ZF3 and ZF4 @planet9 @shakalaca @anhenrique if they will get the ZF5.

Looking forward for zenphone 5 with s636 price around below 400 and BL unlocked and source code release!

Seriously drooling over this 5z the specs are killer, as far as the notch I could care less that it resembles a essential p1. The specs the aspect ratio is spot on. Think it may be my next device after it's been out for a few months and see how it rolls. Hopefully Asus keeps the major updates coming for it and a place in the modding community. That sd845 tho.

I am considering this device. It seems to tick all of my boxes. I do wish it was waterproof, but for the price I'm strongly considering it anyways. Does anyone know Asus reputation with RF performance?

Ascertion said:
I am considering this device. It seems to tick all of my boxes. I do wish it was waterproof, but for the price I'm strongly considering it anyways. Does anyone know Asus reputation with RF performance?
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What's RF..???
Addition : RF performance is pretty good.

ra_si said:
What's RF..???
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I think it's radio frequency, ie if this phone gets good phone reception.
There is also SAR (specific Absorbtion Rate). This is something that measures how much radiation a phone outputs to your body when the phone is at a certain distance. This is something that should be spoken about more. Phones can up the power for a better signal but it should be the optimisation of phone strength without outputting more radiation into your body.
Sent from my OnePlus 5 using XDA Labs

rav101 said:
I think it's radio frequency, ie if this phone gets good phone reception.
There is also SAR (specific Absorbtion Rate). This is something that measures how much radiation a phone outputs to your body when the phone is at a certain distance. This is something that should be spoken about more. Phones can up the power for a better signal but it should be the optimisation of phone strength without outputting more radiation into your body.
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Thanks for telling about about RF. And I knew about SAR, still:good:

My asus zenfone has heating issue. It is getting hot after 10 ,15 min

If this were offered in a Google Play Edition I would jump all over it. ASUS bloat and support, no thanks.

Asus told me via their FB account, that USB2.0 stated on GSM arena is incorrect. So afterall there is hope, that the SD636 version will be one of the first midrangers with proper USB3.1 with all its perks!
I just wish, that asus doesn't screw up something on the phone, because so far it looks like a killer phone.

Maor545 said:
Asus told me via their FB account, that USB2.0 stated on GSM arena is incorrect. So afterall there is hope, that the SD636 version will be one of the first midrangers with proper USB3.1 with all its perks!
I just wish, that asus doesn't screw up something on the phone, because so far it looks like a killer phone.
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The Moto Z3 Play will include the same SOC, so we'll see. I'm unsure of when the 5 will release outside of Asia, but they need to move quickly.

Note10.1Dude said:
If this were offered in a Google Play Edition I would jump all over it. ASUS bloat and support, no thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think so. look at their Zenfone 3 models its already running android Oreo unlike other companies that still stuck on nougat.

What are you considering replacing your turbo with?

I've had my turbo for several years now, replaced the screen once and last night I replaced the power button. That was a *****.
I love the screen resolution, overall size, the battery and Lollipop.
So whats next?
I have looked at the Google Pixel, Moto Z Force and Moto Z2 Play xt1710-01. Mostly leaning towards the Z2 Play for the root ability.

34Ford said:
I've had my turbo for several years now, replaced the screen once and last night I replaced the power button. That was a *****.
I love the screen resolution, overall size, the battery and Lollipop.
So whats next?
I have looked at the Google Pixel, Moto Z Force and Moto Z2 Play xt1710-01. Mostly leaning towards the Z2 Play for the root ability.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LG V30/V30+/V30S is the hands down winner.
cmrntnnr said:
The Droid Turbo and its siblings have held up well with age. Like @ChazzMatt I am migrating to lg v30's. What I do like about the v30 is the louder speaker, faster camera, and brighter screen. The extra memory and tray for an sdcard are a bonus. The downside for the mod community is complexity, there are sooo many variants.
I could certainly be happy sticking with a Turbo, but the reality is that it isn't made any longer and will become more difficult for software devs to support, as well. It's good to have an exit strategy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In early 2017 I started looking waiting for new phones (and then eliminating them) that could replace my beloved Quark, without losing any features like QHD (1440p) OLED, Qi wireless charging, and 3.5mm headset jack. While also GAINING features that have become de rigueur for premium Android phones, like IP68 dust/water resistance and fingerprint sensor.
I also wanted to be able to root the phone to keep total control.
The LG V30 is the only phone to match all my specifications as well comfort in size.
WTF -- LG V30/V30+ Bootloader Unlock and Root (MOST VARIANTS)
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/help/wtf-lg-v30-t3790500/post76584629#post76584629
You don't even need a "Verizon" LG V30 or whatever carrier you use. You can cross flash what you need to end up with what you want.
Here's one guy who switched to LG V30..
Geekzilla said:
Thank you ChazzMatt. If it was't for you I'd still be using my xt1254!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I own five of these now -- because you can get MINT "Sprint" LS998 V30+ (128GB internal storage + microSD card) for $320 on eBay. In 10 minutes there are NO LONGER Sprint LS998, they become official carrier unlocked US998. You can even flash Verizon stuff on there if that's what you want...
See this post if you want to know more:
Which LG V30 to choose for bootloader unlock and root?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=77011350&postcount=3

It was hard to let go of the Turbo, and I still have one as a backup/travel phone. I liked them so much I replaced the usb connector on one, not fun.
My experience with the v30 so far is that it is more than a worthy replacement for all the reasons cited by @ChazzMatt. Another positive thing to mention is increased ROM development activity now that bootloader unlock has been achieved. That should help keep software up-to-date long after LG and the carriers stop providing OS upgrades and security patches.
If you do go this route, be aware that the v30's are slippery so a case is a good idea. There is a nice thread at https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/accessories/lg-v30-t3667430 with experiences and recommendations. The clear Spigen "Air Cushion" has worked well for me.

Thanks for the replies. I will go look at the LG V30. There is so many phones today.

June 21, 2018
4stringenator said:
Great info ChazzMatt! Pulled the trigger on a LG V30 yesterday. (My Turbo is still rocking because of this killer group of devs and folks like you.) I just couldn't pass this up for a chance for a newer device with BL unlock and great audio specs. The Verizon bonus is icing on the cake. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I've seen you now over in the V30 forum in the past month! Smart decision. For Verizon users here on XDA, the Droid Turbo is officially END OF LIFE.
________
END OF CDMA COMING!
Verizon is shutting off CDMA at end of 2019. Verizon will become LTE-only network, which means you will need a phone with VoLTE on Verizon, by end of next year.
People NOT on Verizon don't care. But for people on Verizon using the XT1254/XT1250 with custom ROMs, you've got less than 1.5 years to get another phone. Or go back to stock Verizon Marshmallow for VoLTE?
For people looking for another phone, the LG V30/V30+/V30S is fantastic. For Verizon users you don't even need a "Verizon" branded model, you can convert any North America V30 variantl (like the Sprint LS998 V30+, mint $320 -- with 128GB internal storage and 4GB RAM. I bought two of those.) to use for Verizon. Many people have done that. Bootloader unlock, TWRP and root and [URL="https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/development"]custom ROMs available[/URL]. Just do NOT NOT buy T-mobile H932. All V30/V30+/V30S -- EXCEPT for T-mobile H932 -- can be bootloader unlocked and rooted. Then you can use on whatever carrier you want -- including Verizon with VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling. See here for one smart blonde female Verizon user on V30 custom ROM.
The LG V30 is the one phone with all the specs of the Quark + more. I didn't lose anything.
OLED 1440p QHD,
Qi wireless charging,
4GB/6GB RAM,
64GB/128GB/256GB internal memory,
microSD card storage
dual rear cameras with OIS
headset jack with quad DAC,
IP68,
fingerprint sensor.
Bootloader unlock, TWRP, root, custom ROMs.
NO OTHER PHONE HAS ALL THAT. Not even the Pixel 2 XL (no headset jack, no Qi wireless charging). Not the stupid OnePlus (no 1440p QHD, no Qi wireless charging, no IP rating whatsoever -- much less IP68)
But you've still got plenty of time to switch! (end of 2019) Just want to let everyone be informed.
However, if you are on Verizon and thinking of switching, now might be time to sell the Droid Turbo.

I've been following news about Verizon's CDMA shutdown plans, too. Something a bit confusing about the Turbo vs the v30's is the protocol used for calling. It sounds like the Turbo uses VoLTE and CDMA/3G for calling and the v30's use VoLTE, LTE and if necessary drops to 3G? If that logic is correct, then the Turbo loses the ability to make and receive calls on custom roms like Lineage, RR and breatheren after the CDMA shutdown.

cmrntnnr said:
I've been following news about Verizon's CDMA shutdown plans, too. Something a bit confusing about the Turbo vs the v30's is the protocol used for calling. It sounds like the Turbo uses VoLTE and CDMA/3G for calling and the v30's use VoLTE, LTE and if necessary drops to 3G? If that logic is correct, then the Turbo loses the ability to make and receive calls on custom roms like Lineage, RR and breatheren after the CDMA shutdown.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, exactly.
On the Quarks (XT1225, XT1254, XT1250), VoLTE is only on Verizon network for XT1254/XT1250 on stock Verizon XT1254 firmware (with most "recent" being Marshmallow in December 2016) or the one ROM based on stock Verizon Marshmallow firmware (again, most "recent" is taken from December 2016 firmware). Even then, again that Verizon VoLTE ONLY works on Verizon network. It's a Verizon-only feature, which I do not understand. Motorola could have given ALL Quarks VoLTE for many, many carriers -- but chose not to do that.
We only have Nougat and Oreo ROMs (after Marshmallow) for Quark thanks to @bhb27 kernel work -- but no Nougat or Oreo Quark ROMs have VoLTE. Do you want current security updates, custom features -- or VoLTE? Many choose custom ROMs like this, even on Verizon! The features and updates are just to good to pass up.
So, those users have LTE -- until a phone call comes in. Then they drop down to CDMA for the duration of the phone call for VOICE, but they don't get data during that time (unlike 3G HSPA which does voice + data).
But come end of next year, there will be no CDMA to fall back on, therefore no voice calls without VoLTE. 2014 Droid Turbo that is rooted, running custom LOS-based ROMs is End of Life. You would have to go back to stock Marshmallow or the one stock-based Marshmallow ROM (way outdated!) to have VoLTE on Verizon. It was a good phone. Time to let it rest in peace. The LG V30 is a great successor, with all the same features and more.
Now the XT1225 does not fall into this category (it doesn't even have CDMA, but instead has more LTE and HSPA bands), nor does any XT1254/XT1250 being used on OTHER carriers. For instance, AT&T is keeping their 3G HSPA indefinitely PLUS LTE. It's only U.S. Verizon users using rooted LOS-based custom ROMs (any Nougat or Oreo ROMs) that need to find another phone.

No doubt Turbos will be running strong even after 18 more months. Perhaps in that time a breakthrough will be made in understanding Verizon's implementation of VoLTE so the feature can be added broadly to custom roms. I would help in anyway possible with testing or a device or two for a skilled dev. Wouldn't it be hilarious if that happened after the CDMA shutdown? Resurrection would be an apt name for the ROM on a Turbo!

cmrntnnr said:
No doubt Turbos will be running strong even after 18 more months. Perhaps in that time a breakthrough will be made in understanding Verizon's implementation of VoLTE so the feature can be added broadly to custom roms. I would help in anyway possible with testing or a device or two for a skilled dev. Wouldn't it be hilarious if that happened after the CDMA shutdown? Resurrection would be an apt name for the ROM on a Turbo!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anything can happen. But by then will be a 5 year old phone. I used my Quarks on AT&T for 3 years (December 2014 - December 2017). Took them to Brazil a couple of times, used them there. Outstanding phone.
But using my LG V30+ now for a few months, I can see how the technology has improved. I now have instant fingerprint sensor on the back to unlock my phone. I have IP68 water proofing. I have 6" almost zero bezel OLED display. I have OIS, on my camera -- which Motorola should have given the Quarks, since they gave it to the 2014 Nexus 6! I have dual cameras on the back, one for regular shots, one for wide angels. I have more RAM, so no lag. I have 128GB internal memory + microSD card. (V30 has 64GB internal memory, my wife has that.)
Mint, $320 on eBay for V30+.
As much as I loved the Quark, the V30/V30+/V30S is a great successor.

@ChazzMatt
First of all, thank you so much for all your help with all things Quark. You're like the conscious of the Quark forums. I'm planning on switching to a LG V30 based on your recommendation. I see they have different storage capabilities. What is the advantage of bigger internal storage when you can just use a SD card?
Thanks again for all your help in the past and future.

nnjimmy59 said:
@ChazzMatt
First of all, thank you so much for all your help with all things Quark. You're like the conscious of the Quark forums. I'm planning on switching to a LG V30 based on your recommendation. I see they have different storage capabilities. What is the advantage of bigger internal storage when you can just use a SD card?
Thanks again for all your help in the past and future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some apps NEED internal storage vs SD storage card. Also, I see different abilities to edit pictures (in Gallery) based on whether they're saved to internal storage vs SD storage card.
Music is great for SD storage card. But always choose more internal storage when you can.
Right now the "mint" LS998 V30+ with 128GB ($320) seems to be the sweet spot (immediately converted to another model, of course). The V30S with 256GB is too much more money. The V30 with just 64GB internal storage is often just as much money as the V30+.

Sunsetting my beloved XT1254
So we're a few months down the line in this thread. I've got a couple apps that I use frequently that are only updating through the Google play store to Android 8.0 Oreo. Is it worth going through all the hassle of modifying build, TWRP, rooting, unlocking, etc (which is fairly complicated given that I've been out of tech for about 15 years and have never worked on phones) or upgrading to either the aforementioned LG V30+ or what looks to be a monster batteried Blackview VB9500 since we're nearing the end of this phone's lifespan?

I finally upgraded my beloved XT1254 for a OnePlus 6T on Verizon network last week. I find that all the reasons I rooted my XT1254 (Verizon bloatware, Titanium, Greenify for battery life, rooted apps to make XT look like more current Android O or P, etc.) no longer apply on a new device. Perhaps after a few yrs rooting will be desirable again as mfg support disappears.

More turbos when the ones I have die

jrmt077 said:
I finally upgraded my beloved XT1254 for a OnePlus 6T on Verizon network last week. I find that all the reasons I rooted my XT1254 (Verizon bloatware, Titanium, Greenify for battery life, rooted apps to make XT look like more current Android O or P, etc.) no longer apply on a new device. Perhaps after a few yrs rooting will be desirable again as mfg support disappears.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry you had to downgrade. No headset jack, no 1440p, no wireless charging on OnePlus. Also no IP RATING, which all current premium phones have.
LG V30 has all that and more. It's the true successor to the Droid Turbo.
Plus, you can root your phone to OWN your phone.
@schwinn8, @gimpy1, @nnjimmy59, and a half dozen other Droid Turbo owners have joined us in the LG V30 forum...
schwinn8 said:
I was jealous of my wife's new phone, so she is getting me one for Xmas now... so I'll be off my Turbo soon!
For those interested, I can recommend the ebay store I bought ours from, since they are BNIB units... and the store just dropped the price a bit more, so it's $299 for a brand new 64GB version! https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-V30-US998-64GB-US-Cellular-Smartphone-Silver-Mint/173602248812
As ChazzMatt was right to point out, ignore the "US Cellular" mentions... it ran on Total Wireless (VZ MVNO) without ANY modifications. I still went to VS996 anyway, (he flashed US998 to Verizon VS996 firmware after bootloader unlock and root) but it's not limited to US Cellular in any way, contrary to the listing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@schwinn8, the middle option below is your phone. It's there because of you. But posting all this here so others can choose which one they want.
Holidays coming up. Here's THREE great deals on 64GB V30/128GB V30+ on eBay below. You always need a spare! Also, very likely eBay will suddenly throw out one of their site-wide 15%-20% off coupons around Black Friday or Cyber Monday? I'm just guessing. They tend to do that around various holidays. A bunch of us bought "mint" V30+ for ADDITIONAL 20% off "Buy It Now" price during Father's Day week.
* LG V30 LS998- 128GB - Titan Black (Sprint) Smartphone A Mint - $299
I've bought from that guy several times or had others buy from him. Just make sure you get the "mint" one. Use Frankenstein to convert to US998 or Verizon VS996. Or convert to US998, bootloader unlock, install TWRP, root -- and THEN convert to Verizon VS996, like @schwinn8 did. But US998 also works on Verizon; US998 works on ANY North American carrier.
OR if you want BRAND NEW IN BOX -- with 2-year LG warranty:
* BRAND NEW IN BOX - LG V30 US998 64GB US Cellular Smartphone-Silver - $299
Same price as the "mint" V30+ but it's NEW and already US998...
* BRAND NEW IN BOX. Ignore that the listing title says "mint" -- the listing itself makes clear it's brand new AND the two users above bought THREE of these new V30 and can verify it's BRAND NEW and eligible for 2-year LG warranty. I've re-written the listing title above to be what it SHOULD say.
* Also ignore the statement it's for "U.S. Cellular only". It's a genuine, new US998 V30+. Seems to be U.S. Cellular overstock, but we all know all US998 are carrier unlocked. The ONLY difference between the B&H Photo "open market" US998 and the U.S. Cellular US998 was the "open market" was eligible for OFFICIAL bootloader unlock. We don't need that with WTF. This thread has a MUCH simpler bootloader unlock for US998 than the OFFICIAL LG bootloader unlock (which I did for one of my V30). Many, many people have bought U.S. Cellular US998 here in this forum and know they are carrier unlocked. That's just leftover language from OTHER U.S. Cellular phones they sell.
REMOVED THE THIRD LISTING, WHICH WAS FOR NEW V30+ -- AS THE SELLER IS SHIPPING 64GB V30 IN A V30+ BOX. I RETURNED MINE AND GETTING A REFUND.
LG V30/V30+
1440P OLED (537 ppi)
Qi wireless charging
3.5mm headset jack
Quad DAC
IP68 dust/water resistance
rear camera OIS on normal lens - plus 120 degree wide angle lens
superfast fingerprint sensor
64GB (V30) or 128GB (V30+) internal storage
microSD port for additional storage
bootloader unlock and root
no notch
Just make sure you buy a decent case, like Spigen. These V30 can be slippery as fish wiggling around. Love this one.
Spigen Rugged Armor LG V30 with Resilient Shock Absorption and Carbon Fiber Design for LG V30 (2017) - Black
https://www.amazon.com/Spigen-Rugged-Resilient-Absorption-Carbon/dp/B071JV1L9Z?ref_=nav_ya_signin&

One plus 6t not a downgrade to me at all we each have our own priorities, mine were 845,8 and 256 at 629$ plus no bloat, phenomenal battery life, Android pie out of the box, smooth and fast performance, embrace diversity ?

jrmt077 said:
One plus 6t not a downgrade to me at all we each have our own priorities, mine were 845,8 and 256 at 629$ plus no bloat, phenomenal battery life, Android pie out of the box, smooth and fast performance, embrace diversity
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is a downgrade since you lost so many features. With my v30, I didn't lose any -- I even gained some more.
I care more about premium features like our Moto Quark had, than pretender phones that claim to as good as flagship but aren't.
LG V30/V30+
1440P OLED (537 ppi)
Qi wireless charging
3.5mm headset jack
Quad DAC
IP68 dust/water resistance
rear camera OIS on normal lens - plus 120 degree wide angle lens
superfast fingerprint sensor
64GB (V30) or 128GB (V30+) internal storage
microSD port for additional storage
bootloader unlock and root
no notch
I count 8 items on that list that OnePlus 6T does NOT have. I hate OnePlus almost as much as I hate Apple.
Plus you paid twice as much as you had to. Looks like you didn't even read my post or you would not have told your price.
@schwinn8, @gimpy1, @nnjimmy59

ChazzMatt said:
It is a downgrade since you lost so many features. With my v30, I didn't lose any -- I even gained some more.
I care more about premium features like our Moto Quark had, than pretender phones that claim to as good as flagship but aren't.
LG V30/V30+
1440P OLED (537 ppi)
Qi wireless charging
3.5mm headset jack
Quad DAC
IP68 dust/water resistance
rear camera OIS on normal lens - plus 120 degree wide angle lens
superfast fingerprint sensor
64GB (V30) or 128GB (V30+) internal storage
microSD port for additional storage
bootloader unlock and root
no notch
I count 8 items on that list that OnePlus 6T does NOT have. I hate OnePlus almost as much as I hate Apple.
Plus you paid twice as much as you had to. Looks like you didn't even read my post or you would not have told your price.
@schwinn8, @gimpy1, @nnjimmy59
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to wonder who you are trying to convince that the LG V30 is the greatest and only choice, me or yourself?

jrmt077 said:
I have to wonder who you are trying to convince that the LG V30 is the greatest and only choice, me or yourself?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The other people, so they don't make a mistake and get a "new" phone inferor in so many ways to even the 2014 Droid Turbo.
Sent via open market LG US998 V30/V30+

Ok I conceed the V30 is absolutely the best phone available today or in the foreseeable future and anyone considering purchase of any other device will not be happy with their inferior purchase.

was the phone worth the price?

I just got it through verizon. I could of bought it from ebay new for 800 something but paying 40 something a month for 24 months is just better for me at the time being even though its like 200 more. I absolutely love it! it really is a perfect phone at this point of time. I only got the 128 gb version. does the verizon version have roms and stuff? would you?

got the blue 128GB version from ATT
not a single regret will use for at least 4 years +
not looking to custom rom or even root it not even dev mode is enabled
I'm sick and tired of that stuff tbh ^^^ it just all werks now

Got a Black 128 N960FD, bought it outright.
It's certainly worth the money if you ask me, imo best android phone of 2018.
Would love to have the option to install a custom ROM, obviously it's possible on the N960FD but Samsung illegally voids the warranty if you do, so won't be happening for a while.

Yes, it's worth the money. True flagship not a crippled one.
Display is probably the best in the market with curved QHD+
Stereo speakers. OS liking is subjective but I like how Samsung has improved over the years from S3(my first flagship phone) with no lags.
Only downside coming to N9 from OnePlus is the charging time. It takes more than an hour to charge completely.

I got it for 700$ so I'm happy

56k INR and am not complaining

I got my blue 512GB for £949 direct from Samsung because of the mess around got £150 off which for me was brilliant. I only pay about £35 a month for it for 24months on the upgrade programme which definitely works out great no interest and then only have an £8 sim only deal. When I get round to trying to sell my oneplus 5 and put that towards the phone it should drop to about 25 a month aswell. I do feel it's a great phone. I've never really tried Samsung before. Charging is a pain plus I'm using wireless charge when ever I do and there have been 2 or 3 times already when I haven't placed it on my wireless dock properly so it's not charged. And I dont think battery life is what its cracked up to be tbh. But overall it's a very nice phone.

I love this device, BUT, if I hadn't of got 20% off the price, there is NO WAY I would of paid the full price. In my opinion, it is definitely not worth the stupid amount of money they are charging.

It's worth every penny! You just don't get such a complete package anywhere else. Pretty much no compromises. It felt like a decent upgrade from the Note8 which was excellent too. It's very significant, even though it's only an incremental upgrade! This phone just has everything I ask for in a smartphone. Signed my new work contract with the S Pen! How cool is that?!
I have the 128GB variant but I also have my 128GB Samsung MicroSD Card from my Note8, so I can't complain about storage!
Pre-Ordered it with EE for £68 / month with 60GB of Data and unlimited everything. Got Apple music for 6 months with it to replace my £10/month of Spotify or Google Play, so It's like £58 for the first 6 months.
Also, I found Apple Music better than both!

I paid about $600 (net cost after selling my Note8 on Swappa), and got a free AKG NC BT headset, free Dex station, free wireless Duo charger, and a free Note9 adapter for my previous Note8 GearVR. I'm happy with that combination. No complaints about the phone.

I've had this thing for two days now and yes, it is the only $1000 phone that actually justifies its price. Design, features, battery, spen, beautiful screen and stellar performance. Tried the iPhone Xs max for a couple of days and got bored with it the first 15 minutes. This phone is amazing. Not regretting any penny spent on it. Got it through tmobile for zero $ down at $850. Not bad. Gonna keep it for a while.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

Gary02468 said:
I paid about $600 (net cost after selling my Note8 on Swappa), and got a free AKG NC BT headset, free Dex station, free wireless Duo charger, and a free Note9 adapter for my previous Note8 GearVR. I'm happy with that combination. No complaints about the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Blimey, that sounds awesome. I wish our carriers would offer that many bundles here in the UK.

bastardtrees said:
got the blue 128GB version from ATT
not a single regret will use for at least 4 years +
not looking to custom rom or even root it not even dev mode is enabled
I'm sick and tired of that stuff tbh ^^^ it just all werks now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got to admit I'm not bothered about modding it in any way. Touchwiz used to be so bad on older phones but now I think it's a dream

Worth the money? Heck yes.
I traded in my S9 with TMO jump, 0 down. Never owned a real flagship phone like the Note 9. Hands down best performance, speed, battery life I've ever had on any phone.
Once you go midnight black, you never go back!

Would you guys switch from a Note 8 to a Note 9? Debating since I like having the more internal storage.

xMadMike said:
It's worth every penny! You just don't get such a complete package anywhere else. Pretty much no compromises. It felt like a decent upgrade from the Note8 which was excellent too. It's very significant, even though it's only an incremental upgrade! This phone just has everything I ask for in a smartphone. Signed my new work contract with the S Pen! How cool is that?!
I have the 128GB variant but I also have my 128GB Samsung MicroSD Card from my Note8, so I can't complain about storage!
Pre-Ordered it with EE for £68 / month with 60GB of Data and unlimited everything. Got Apple music for 6 months with it to replace my £10/month of Spotify or Google Play, so It's like £58 for the first 6 months.
Also, I found Apple Music better than both!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm paying 43 a month with EE for my 512GB Note 9. 40GB unltd everything

dpoverlord said:
Would you guys switch from a Note 8 to a Note 9? Debating since I like having the more internal storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah it is worth it for more storage and a bigger battery

Was at first hesitant about upgrading from the note 8. After having done it, I'm pleased with the decision.

Coming from a Note 8 I'm happy. I gave my wife the Note 8 and traded her S8+ in that had quite a bad pink hue to the screen. I got the phone for $765 after taxes and trade in. This is the best bang for the buck for what's out there and no notch.

dpoverlord said:
Would you guys switch from a Note 8 to a Note 9? Debating since I like having the more internal storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I upgraded from N8 to N9. No regrets here. It's not really that much of an upgrade. Day to day performance, you won't notice any difference. The camera is improved, and the Bluetooth S-Pen is cool. I actually like how the new pen feels in my hand. It's just a hair thicker. And I know EVERYONE had the Deep Ocean Blue color, but I love it. Absolutely beautiful color. And I personally like the contrasting yellow pen.
I paid $700 for mine on eBay. T-Mobile version. Barely used. It still had the factory plastic on the frame! And the original owner put a clear protective skin on the back and had a screen protector on it. So it was perfect. All new unused accessories and a Speck Grip case. It was a great deal!!
---------- Post added at 10:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:20 PM ----------
Misterxtc said:
Coming from a Note 8 I'm happy. I gave my wife the Note 8 and traded her S8+ in that had quite a bad pink hue to the screen. I got the phone for $765 after taxes and trade in. This is the best bang for the buck for what's out there and no notch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I kept my Note 8 as my backup phone, and sold my Pixel 2 XL.