Related
I am a long time Verizon customer, and after a horrible customer service issue yesterday......I am looking to switch to AT&T.
I've been on the Note 3 since October of 2013 and absolutely love the device. Since Vzw is so behind releasing devices, if I switch to AT&T I am open to two devices I am interested in.......the Note Edge and the N6. Anyone of you come from a Note to the N6, that has owned/used the N6 long enough to give me some feedback, pros/cons? I am reading a lot of negative when comparing the cameras......but am aware the N6 is vastly improved from previous. One thing I really am most concerned about is screen clarity. Just hoped for anyones direct feedback that came from a Note and is live with their N6.
Concerns:
Screen clarity,colors, overall brilliance. Samsung has been superior IMO for the last few years. My Galaxy S Fascinate, my S3, now my N3......all in my opinion had the best appearance than any comparable phone on the market at the time of their release. It is one of the biggest deciding factors I've base my devices around for the last several years. I don't want to go backwards if the N6 is noticeably less.
No external memory slot. Even though I've had an issue with the last 3 Samsung devices involving the SD card, its still nice to have that storage available, especially when storing ROM's and backup data.
No removable battery. Again going back to flashing ROM's, I'm used to devices with removable batteries.....which is critical in some cases needing to do a battery pull. Perhaps you Nexus fans can reassure me this is a non-issue.....
TIA
LXative said:
I am a long time Verizon customer, and after a horrible customer service issue yesterday......I am looking to switch to AT&T.
I've been on the Note 3 since October of 2013 and absolutely love the device. Since Vzw is so behind releasing devices, if I switch to AT&T I am open to two devices I am interested in.......the Note Edge and the N6. Anyone of you come from a Note to the N6, that has owned/used the N6 long enough to give me some feedback, pros/cons? I am reading a lot of negative when comparing the cameras......but am aware the N6 is vastly improved from previous. One thing I really am most concerned about is screen clarity. Just hoped for anyones direct feedback that came from a Note and is live with their N6.
TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the note 4 and gave it to my wife when the nexus came out. To be honest I regret it Note is way better display. Camera yes improved but Note is better then N6.
I had the Note 3 for a year. It was absolutely my favorite device I had owned yet. The Note series is great, one can't deny. I loved the large powerful device. I was so close to buying the Note 4, until I found out the Nexus 6 was coming with a 6" display. It was a no-brainer for me. I rarely ever used the spen so that wasn't a factor. I couldn't stand the idea of a rear facing speaker so the forward facing speakers on the N6 was a big plus. Power wise, well they are both power houses so no factor. Touchwiz vs pure Android, well for me pure Android was a big plus. Design of the N6 is very appealing to me. I don't have a preference, nor could I tell you the difference in the displays, They both look good to me. I can say from the Note 3 to the N6, the screen quality is at least as good. I have zero complaints with the camera. I mean it's a phone; if I want professional photos then I would use a camera. I guess in the end it's user preference but you asked for opinions/experiences so I thought I'd share mine. I don't regret nor even think about my decision to go with the N6. It's what I wanted.
Huge discussion here...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/general/note-4-vs-nexus-6-t2906800
NICEGYPT said:
I have the note 4 and gave it to my wife when the nexus came out. To be honest I regret it Note is way better display. Camera yes improved but Note is better then N6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.
b.huss2 said:
I had the Note 3 for a year. It was absolutely my favorite device I had owned yet. The Note series is great, one can't deny. I loved the large powerful device. I was so close to buying the Note 4, until I found out the Nexus 6 was coming with a 6" display. It was a no-brainer for me. I rarely ever used the spen so that wasn't a factor. I couldn't stand the idea of a rear facing speaker so the forward facing speakers on the N6 was a big plus. Power wise, well they are both power houses so no factor. Touchwiz vs pure Android, well for me pure Android was a big plus. Design of the N6 is very appealing to me. I don't have a preference, nor could I tell you the difference in the displays, They both look good to me. I can say from the Note 3 to the N6, the screen quality is at least as good. I have zero complaints with the camera. I mean it's a phone; if I want professional photos then I would use a camera. I guess in the end it's user preference but you asked for opinions/experiences so I thought I'd share mine. I don't regret nor even think about my decision to go with the N6. It's what I wanted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good feedback. The first reply definitely was a pretty clear opinion, but I'm happy to see a counter for the N6 with yours. I'm definitely going to go hands-on in a store tonight, but for those of you who have the N6 I feel can give better feedback since you are more adapted already.
Getting ready to add two more concerns to my OP .........keep the replies coming. :good:
The N4 screen is brighter and cooler than the Nexus, but doesn't really offer any clarity benefit to me. It would be a better performer in direct sunlight though. I had both in hand for a couple weeks and in the end the Nexus was the right device for me. I prefer a stock android build and noticed many of the Samsung additions I either ignored or turned off. Your best bet is to think about the things that are important to you and then get some time in store with both to gain an understanding of how each devices handles those things. To me it came down to the fact that touchwiz just felt heavy (although it has come a very long way) and i wasn't really utilizing the S-pen the way i thought I would. I also like the ability to have access to factory images and the strong developer support within the Nexus community.
You cant go wrong with either though. I didn't dislike the Note, I just like the Nexus more
Tikerz said:
Huge discussion here...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/general/note-4-vs-nexus-6-t2906800
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A ton of info surely in there, but that was pre-release for both devs. Surely there are hands-on replies in the current end, but that is a lot of sifting. I'll keep browsing it in daytime if I can't get what info I am content with here though, thanks. :good:
LXative said:
Thanks.
Good feedback. The first reply definitely was a pretty clear opinion, but I'm happy to see a counter for the N6 with yours. I'm definitely going to go hands-on in a store tonight, but for those of you who have the N6 I feel can give better feedback since you are more adapted already.
Getting ready to add two more concerns to my OP .........keep the replies coming. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have no concern about the storage. I am on the cloud for years now. All my pic and music on the drive and good music. once I feel the storage are full which I never seen it I clear my storage.
Battery on the note 4 is better. You can get almost 5 to 5 and half hours SOT. On the other hand nexus will get about 4 hours SOT.
I haven't owned a Note, but I've played with a few. Most recently, I handled a Note Edge for a bit over the weekend. It is definitely a nice device. Did it have a bunch of features that made it a clear winner over the Nexus? No. The edge display, although a nice touch, felt rather gimmicky and overall not very useful. I also had problems with Touchwiz not responding properly to the stylus input. Maybe someone broke the stylus, but from what I've heard and seen about Touchwiz, my first impression was that it was bugging out. The rear-facing mono speaker sucks in comparison. Also I didn't notice anything special about the display.
In fact, I love the warmer color temperature of the Nexus 6. I'm surrounded by overly-cool LCD displays and fluorescent lighting in my office. The warmer colors of the Nexus 6 were a welcomed sight. Let's not forget that natural colors are actually warmer than your standard LCD display, and it's my opinion that the Nexus 6's display produces more true-to-life color than any of my LCDs, and the overly blue tint to Samsung devices.
There's no doubt that some may find the extra features of the Spen and Touchwiz interface a "better" experience, and some go ape**** over the changeable battery and SD slot, but are those few features worth the higher premium of a Samsung? No, not in my opinion.
I switched from Note 3 to Nexus 6. Enjoyed the Note 3 a lot, but there where some things I disliked a lot.
1) these capacitive buttons are horrible. When using mhl adapter with TV you have no buttons on TV. They take a lot of space. Display buttons extend the display when watching videos or looking at pictures.
2) touchwiz. great - these features like multi window. I used them twice because they really are cool, but never again.
3) I liked the spen a lot. But after switching to Evernote I simply stopped using it.
4) Samsung & updates. *shakehead* when Samsung releases 5.0 for Note 4, Google releases 5.1. Let's not talk about when update will come to Note 3 which is one year old. Yes - I know. There is a beta from India you can flash but if you NEED your phone, will you flash a beta? It is simply horrible, that a one year old device is not treated the same in regards of updates as the current flagship. Everybody who pays 700€ for his Note 4 today has to keep in mind, that his phone will be treated as "old" in just one year. And it is even worse with the updates for tablets.
the hardware Samsung makes is the best on the market, but I want to keep my phone longer then one year.
I have my Nexus 6 now and am quite happy with it.
Greetings,
Elmar
I bought the Note 4 at T-Mobile the day it came out and I returned it after 2 weeks.
At first, it was great. Loved all the S Pen features. But then, I started noticing lag and stuttering thanks to TouchWiz. I rooted and debloated it, but it still had lag that I wasn't comfortable with. Other people are saying they don't notice it, but I returned it and bought the N6 when it came out. And I haven't looked back.
I've had 2 of every note for my wife and I on at. If you absolutely need to flash and tinker go with the n6 its a great device. Otherwise I would stick with the note if you don't mind stock touchwiz. There is almost no Dev support on the 3 due to locked bootloaders and I don't think the 4 will be any better. All you can flash on the 3 is variants of stock and only with safe strap installed. Hashcode who developed safestrap no longer supports it so for the 4 there would need to be a new Dev working on things if that method will even work.
Tldr if you need to flash and mod go n6 if not go note 4. You have even less of a chance at Dev support on the edge. But they are all great devices!!
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
The Note 3 is what I have had experience with as I have owned it since it came out last year. I haven't gotten the chance to play with the Note 4 but what I can say is that the Note series never disappoints.
As far as the carrier goes I really wouldn't recommend going with AT&T or Verizon because if you are looking to root your phone and flash roms it will be a hassle to do because of the locked bootloader. I recommend you go on the T-Mobile network instead.
I say the Nexus 6 and Note 4 are great devices they both have the same snapdragon 805 chip among other things so the difference would be whether you want touchwiz or not.
DON'T FORGET if you can afford it, T-Mobile unlocked devices will work on att so there is that option. Also Verizon offer developer versions of the notes that aren't locked but are full price up front.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
I had the note 3 and 4 on vzw, got the note 4 on release day and had it till I got my n6 3 weeks ago. I loved my note devices but I noticed some lag on them over time not bad by any means but more like hiccups. Always put on Nova launcher bc I hated touchwiz. Screen was brighter on note 4 but I don't mind the n6 screen. Camera at night isn't as good but in daylight the n6 focuses faster than the note 4. For what I like the n6 is the phone for me.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
I own a T Mobile Note 4 and using on AT&T network. It works great with no issues.
I ordered a Nexus 6 with Friday delivery so can't fairly compare yet.
A few Note 4 things.
1. FireKat custom rom has made all the difference. It is stock TW tweaked to perfection. No lag and battery last 5 to 6 hours of SOT.
2. Screen on Note 4 is incredible.
3. We did get CM12 on Note 4.
I had a Note 3 until may of this year when I got my G3 which I still have. The Nexus is leaps and bounds past the Note.
TheAmazingDave said:
I haven't owned a Note, but I've played with a few. Most recently, I handled a Note Edge for a bit over the weekend. It is definitely a nice device. Did it have a bunch of features that made it a clear winner over the Nexus? No. The edge display, although a nice touch, felt rather gimmicky and overall not very useful. I also had problems with Touchwiz not responding properly to the stylus input. Maybe someone broke the stylus, but from what I've heard and seen about Touchwiz, my first impression was that it was bugging out. The rear-facing mono speaker sucks in comparison. Also I didn't notice anything special about the display.
In fact, I love the warmer color temperature of the Nexus 6. I'm surrounded by overly-cool LCD displays and fluorescent lighting in my office. The warmer colors of the Nexus 6 were a welcomed sight. Let's not forget that natural colors are actually warmer than your standard LCD display, and it's my opinion that the Nexus 6's display produces more true-to-life color than any of my LCDs, and the overly blue tint to Samsung devices.
There's no doubt that some may find the extra features of the Spen and Touchwiz interface a "better" experience, and some go ape**** over the changeable battery and SD slot, but are those few features worth the higher premium of a Samsung? No, not in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The brilliance of the colors on the Galaxy phones is actually my preference. I am a hobby/amateur photographer, so I always have tons of my favorite pictures on my phone. Being you can actually control the tones/contrast settings.......that is all user interface, your preference. I've never noticed any blue tinting to any of my last several Samsung devices, interesting to hear that from another perspective. Thanks for posting up your experience, these are the kinds of posts I am looking for. :good:
theguardian99 said:
I switched from Note 3 to Nexus 6. Enjoyed the Note 3 a lot, but there where some things I disliked a lot.
1) these capacitive buttons are horrible. When using mhl adapter with TV you have no buttons on TV. They take a lot of space. Display buttons extend the display when watching videos or looking at pictures.
2) touchwiz. great - these features like multi window. I used them twice because they really are cool, but never again.
3) I liked the spen a lot. But after switching to Evernote I simply stopped using it.
4) Samsung & updates. *shakehead* when Samsung releases 5.0 for Note 4, Google releases 5.1. Let's not talk about when update will come to Note 3 which is one year old. Yes - I know. There is a beta from India you can flash but if you NEED your phone, will you flash a beta? It is simply horrible, that a one year old device is not treated the same in regards of updates as the current flagship. Everybody who pays 700€ for his Note 4 today has to keep in mind, that his phone will be treated as "old" in just one year. And it is even worse with the updates for tablets.
the hardware Samsung makes is the best on the market, but I want to keep my phone longer then one year.
I have my Nexus 6 now and am quite happy with it.
Greetings,
Elmar
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Outstanding, this is a direct comparison for me.....since I'd be making the same change. And actually your 4 points directly relate to myself and my own preferences/experiences too. Thank you. :good:
XxKINGxX2580 said:
I bought the Note 4 at T-Mobile the day it came out and I returned it after 2 weeks.
At first, it was great. Loved all the S Pen features. But then, I started noticing lag and stuttering thanks to TouchWiz. I rooted and debloated it, but it still had lag that I wasn't comfortable with. Other people are saying they don't notice it, but I returned it and bought the N6 when it came out. And I haven't looked back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had a few hangups here and there, and started out swearing I'd remain stock/OTA only (like a lot of us on here do). After about 3-4 months, and the lack of updates (thanks Verizon), I rooted. Of course limited due to being locked down, but the experience even without AOSP based ROM's was much better than stock. And I've always used APEX Launcher to avoid TouchJizz. Glad to see the N6 answered your concerns though, definitely adds to the +++ side for me.
powdered_donuts said:
I've had 2 of every note for my wife and I on at. If you absolutely need to flash and tinker go with the n6 its a great device. Otherwise I would stick with the note if you don't mind stock touchwiz. There is almost no Dev support on the 3 due to locked bootloaders and I don't think the 4 will be any better. All you can flash on the 3 is variants of stock and only with safe strap installed. Hashcode who developed safestrap no longer supports it so for the 4 there would need to be a new Dev working on things if that method will even work.
Tldr if you need to flash and mod go n6 if not go note 4. You have even less of a chance at Dev support on the edge. But they are all great devices!!
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like exploring different ROM's for sure. I really can't understand why carriers lock their devices down and offer little or no different customizations. It'd be a different story if they would see what changes the dev's make (that we want) and give OTA options of the same. Even as simple as a toggle for flashlight.......
jae2014 said:
The Note 3 is what I have had experience with as I have owned it since it came out last year. I haven't gotten the chance to play with the Note 4 but what I can say is that the Note series never disappoints.
As far as the carrier goes I really wouldn't recommend going with AT&T or Verizon because if you are looking to root your phone and flash roms it will be a hassle to do because of the locked bootloader. I recommend you go on the T-Mobile network instead.
I say the Nexus 6 and Note 4 are great devices they both have the same snapdragon 805 chip among other things so the difference would be whether you want touchwiz or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would be all over T-Mobile if they had service where I work. But T-Mobile has no data where I live OR work......so unfortunately it is not an option for me. I am limited to Verizon towers and AT&T towers only.
powdered_donuts said:
DON'T FORGET if you can afford it, T-Mobile unlocked devices will work on att so there is that option. Also Verizon offer developer versions of the notes that aren't locked but are full price up front.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If my own ignorance to this option of T-mob device compatibility on AT&T networks, I would have purchased my last device from them. Verizon has stuck it to me hard with my Note 3 and their customer service, and being I paid outright for this Note 3......its going to be hard for me to justify dropping that cheese on another device outright. Definitely will keep that in mind though, maybe even if I decide to shop Swappa. :good:
nismo591 said:
I had the note 3 and 4 on vzw, got the note 4 on release day and had it till I got my n6 3 weeks ago. I loved my note devices but I noticed some lag on them over time not bad by any means but more like hiccups. Always put on Nova launcher bc I hated touchwiz. Screen was brighter on note 4 but I don't mind the n6 screen. Camera at night isn't as good but in daylight the n6 focuses faster than the note 4. For what I like the n6 is the phone for me.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
:good:
martinezma99 said:
I own a T Mobile Note 4 and using on AT&T network. It works great with no issues.
I ordered a Nexus 6 with Friday delivery so can't fairly compare yet.
A few Note 4 things.
1. FireKat custom rom has made all the difference. It is stock TW tweaked to perfection. No lag and battery last 5 to 6 hours of SOT.
2. Screen on Note 4 is incredible.
3. We did get CM12 on Note 4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I should have bought the dev edition Note 3, but then again there is hardly any support on the Verizon end........so I'm actually glad I didn't. Still something to think about if I do shop Swappa.
Pilz said:
I had a Note 3 until may of this year when I got my G3 which I still have. The Nexus is leaps and bounds past the Note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you be specific as to what is so dramatic in the differences? If you have time, and don't mind? I'd love to hear what your experience has been. :good:
LXative said:
Can you be specific as to what is so dramatic in the differences? If you have time, and don't mind? I'd love to hear what your experience has been. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Note 3 was a good phone when I didn't know any better about Android when I bought it. The phone seemed fast compared to my S3 but it WS extremely limited in terms of modding which is what I hated. TW was always laggy for me (more noticeable when I used my Nexus 7 then used my Note 3). After a while it for extremely annoying to me that my Nexus 7 with its 1.7ghz process and 2gn or ram was faster than my 2.3ghz 3gb of ram Note 3. I was rooted running Nova launcher on it until I accidentally updated to kitkat. I lost root in the update and I decided that I would upgrade he phone when something better came along because the TW nonsense was not for me. I liked the dual window and the S pen was cool at first but then it became a gimmick. The physical home button started to click weird after 7 months and it was not ideal to use and felt primitive compared to the onscreen buttons of my Nexus 7 (2013)
I had mentioned modding earlier which is important to me especially with TW because there was a good amount of lag comparatively speaking. Others may have found the Note to EB fast, but have then use a Nexus or AOSP device and then use the Samsung. Its sad because it was nice despite its shortcomings. The camera focus was horrible in my Note, but when it did focus after much frustration it would take nice pictures. Now let's talk ergonomics, the Note is extremely boxy for a 5.7in phone. I like big phablets however the Note 3 was terrible to hold even with a minimal case. Then there was the camera which protrudes a good amount just like the S5, and Note 4 making a slim case a bad idea if you want to protect the camera lens.
My wife has the S5 and whenever I use it it's awful just like I recall my Note was. My wife used to love Samsung too, but she now likes the way Nexus devices are or any phones with on screen buttons and minimal bloat. (She's not s technology snob at all either) her phone lags and stutters even with the bloat disabled as much as possible. Back on topic with the Note 3 now, I decided that the physical buttons, non ergonomic design, bad camera focus, laggy software, slow updates, bloat galore and general lack of easy development/mods was too much. I then bought a G3 at the end of May last year and instantly loved it. LG's UI was nowhere near as heavy as Samsung's and the G3 became my favorite non Nexus devices. In fact I still use my G3 even thought I love my Nexus. I wasn't going to wait for the Nexus 6 or whatever I thought it would be called to come out because I was done with the Notes shortcomings. The best decision I ever made was to get rid of my Samsung phone. I like the Nexus and G3 and will get the G4 and Nexus phone next year unless LG screws up their nice design.
In the end it was more than one thing for me and I hopes this helps you. I don't hate Samsung, I just don't like their phones the way that I used to. I still have an awesome Samsung TV and LG TV in my house and a Samsung Ativ Book 9 Plus (i7 mode) but I won't but another Samsung phone the way they are now.
I had the Note 3 for several month and before that a Note 2 for a good while - both on Verizon. Having grown tired of Verizon locking down their devices and Samsung pressing on with Knox, I decided to move on from both ... grabbed a Nexus 6 with T-Mobile back in the beginning of December. I admit I wasn't sure if I could deviate from the Note as I grew accustom to the Note series and all the great things it has to offer - screen, camera, having the SPen, Multi Window, Pen Window, etc. But, as I started to think about it, I realized I almost never used the SPen and Multi Window/Pen Window were very rarely used as well. After almost 2 full weeks with the Nexus 6 I can say without a shadow of a doubt I do not miss my Note 3 AT ALL! About the only thing I miss is the battery life - the Nexus 6, in my use/experience, has not even come close to what I achieved with the Note 3! (I'm not really worried about this as I'm sure the kinks will be worked out by Google/Moto to get better results).
Comparison of the (in my opinion) major factors:
- Screen: Turning off Adaptive Brightness on the Nexus 6 makes a HUGE difference (and is a must IMO) and , in my most humble opinion, puts it on par with the Note 3 display. However, the Note 3 still wins this contest ... The N6 screen gets plenty bright and visibility outdoors hasn't been an issue, but overall I think the N3 has a slight edge. Also, the feel of the screen is different on the N6. The N6 glass seems "stickier" (for a lack of a better word) ... My fingers slid across the glass easier on the N3 and it's definitely better at managing finger prints!
- UI: Hands down goes to the N6!! Absolutely no comparison! While I'm not a TouchWiz hater (I actually think it compliments the Note series well) I was never a huge fan. Yes, it has some useful features, but a vast majority I found to be gimmicky and never used them. All they did was clutter the settings menu and app draw. And there is no denying TW lags ... now it was never significant in my experience, but definitely noticeable! Now, 5.0 on the Nexus 6 absolutely beautiful and straight out flies! Multitasking it so fluid that it makes up for Multi Window - switch between apps using the recent key (or whatever they're calling it in 5.0) is smooth with quick transitions. Google added nice features (ambient display, battery saver, priority notifications - to name a few) that are, well useful! Granted other OEMs have used similar features them in the past, but they're baked in very nice in 5.0 ... not intrusive and easy to ignore).
- Battery: As I stated above, I had better results from my Note 3. The N6 gets me through the day, but if I was a heavy user I'd find myself needing to charge mid day for sure
- Sound: Nexus 6 is better in every category! Dual front facing speakers!! Nuff said LOL! Headphone jack output is better and louder in-call volume.
Feel-in-hand/Build: While slightly taller,wider and heavier the Nexus 6, after a few days of use, feels better in hand. I admit, the additional width took some getting used to (the height wasn't an issue for me), even though it's only slight difference in width, it's definitely a difference you'll notice. But like any new device, it becomes a none-issue after a few days. The curved back on the N6 makes the feel-in-hand great, but certainly makes things annoying if you're trying to use the device while it's laying flat on a hard surface. Although the same could be said for the Note 3 and it's protruding rear camera (never did understand that design!)
The build on the Nexus 6 is stellar!! Just a solid piece of machinery LOL There's no give to this thing at all! The N3 always felts kinda cheap to me ... it'd creek a little bit when holding it in a certain spot, the plastic didn't feel premium and it developed hair-line cracks in the plastic outer band around the SPen although it was never dropped/abused.
Camera: (DISCLAIMER: I AM IN NO WAY A PHOTOGRAPHER ... I ENJOY TAKING PICTURES, BUT TRUTH BE TOLD I DON'T KNOW MAY ASS FROM LEFT FIELD!!!) I may be the only one to say this, but I was never a fan of the Note 3 camera (I still feel the Note 2 camera was superior). I always had a tough time getting decent shots. However, towards the end of my run with the device I turned off the image stabilization feature (I think that's what it was called) and had MUCH better success! The Nexus 6, IMO, takes really good photos. Like any smartphone camera, it does better in the right conditions. But, with HDR on, I am finding the pics to be more than ample for my needs.
Depending on your wants and needs, I don't think you can go wrong with either device. In the end it all comes down to personal preference. At this point in my life, I wanted the latest, pure, unskinned Android OS, fast updates and a root/hack friendly environment (with great developer support). If those aren't appealing to you, than the Note 4 is probably the next best choice. I say go play with both a few time at a local store before making a decision ....
I know this will be a boring post for many, but I figured I'd give my thoughts for other Nexus users who might be reluctantly considering this phone over the current Nexus line-up or the upcoming Nexus line-up.
Anyway, as you can tell by my signature, I've been pretty biased towards Nexus phones for the past 6 years. Owning almost every one since the Nexus One, skipping the Nexus S. I've always been drawn to the pure Android experience. However, as the years have progressed and other Android phone line-ups have produced some nice little features (double tap to wake, properly working ambient display etc.), I found myself lusting over some simple features that the Nexus phones just don't have without rooting and using weird workarounds that are often buggy. But every time I tried to veer away from Nexus to get these features (LG G3, LG G4, LG G5, HTC 10), I found myself missing the pure Android experience and always ended up throwing those new phones in the drawer and going back to my current trusty Nexus.
When the OnePlus 3 was announced, I was partially intrigued but didn't give it much thought. That was until I watched this unboxing and feature walkthrough video. For the first time I really started to look forward to a non-Nexus device. So far, I have not been let down at all.
The OnePlus 3 is just as snappy as my Nexus 6P was and is just the perfect size to be comfortable in the hand. This is something the larger 6P lacked. I'm also quite amazed at how well the ambient display works on the OnePlus 3. The "wave" to view notifications, double tap to wake, and camera/flashlight gestures all work perfectly. Meanwhile, the ambient display on the 6P and 5X just never worked when you needed them to and always seemed to activate at the strangest times. It was useless on those phones and I always ended up just turning it off.
As of late, the only reason I was rooting my Nexus phones, was to flash a custom kernel so I could tweak the display RGB color settings to my liking. But with OxygenOS, that feature is baked right in, as it should be. To some this may be silly but to me, this is a game changer. Mainly because it allows me to set the color hue to my liking without having to root.
I know that software updates won't be nearly as fast. However, as time has progressed I've learned the hard way that having the latest, right off the bat, is often not the best. By the time OxygenOS is released based on Nougat, it will likely be bug free and 100% solid, as the current OxygenOS is. It will also have the cool features I love, that stock Android just doesn't come with.
So in summary, I think I finally found my perfect phone and for the first time in 6 years, it isn't a Nexus. I can safely say that I have little to no excitement for the upcoming (likely HTC) Nexus phones.
Great job OnePlus! :highfive:
@sn0warmy I have to wholeheartedly agree with you. I have been a Nexus user since the 5, I too have tried the odd device but always came back. I have the feeling of using a Nexus while having features only found on other devices. And I like that feeling ..Heres to OP keeping that feeling alive.
/agree
Also come frome 6P , agree that this is cool replacment for nexus.
Good on you and thanks for sharing. I have a feeling we'll have plenty of customs Roms to replace all the Nexus updates.
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using XDA-Developers mobile app
I whole heartedly agree. I've ownly owned the Samsung Nexus S back in the day, but I can say the OnePlus 3 is one of the best android's I've ever earned. Great battery life, great camera, great design and feel. Just an overall great phone. I prefer it over my HTC 10, and I feel like at this point, I don't plan on going back to spending $600+ on a smartphone, when I can get one for sub $400 or sub $475 that performs on par.
PryvateiDz said:
... I prefer it over my HTC 10, and I feel like at this point, I don't plan on going back to spending $600+ on a smartphone, when I can get one for sub $400 or sub $475 that performs on par.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the HTC 10 was such a letdown to me. Even with 4GB of RAM and a Snapdragon 820 processor, HTC still managed to find a way to make the almost "pure Android" interface laggy. And the camera was a big disappointment coming from the 6P. On top of that, the finger print scanner didn't work for me 50% of the time. Super annoying.
I sold my 6p and got this baby I'd say I'm definitely in love. been a nexus user since nexus one.
Sent from my Nexus 6p using Tapatalk
Nearly a mirror my of my precise thoughts and experience. Excellent post. I would agree even about the updates. The Motorola N6 I'm upgrading from was a nightmare almost from day 1 as far as hardware and implementation. The updates would often make it LESS stable and I learned to start being wary of them. I'm happy to upgrade to a newer cleaner O.S. every year, but done being a guinea pig for Google. The OP3 is what each Nexus device since the N5 SHOULD have been as far as price/hardware/performance is concerned. If Oneplus can keep this pace up, I'll stick with them for a very long time.
OP - agree 100% - i have had every nexus, and always enjoyed them. the Nexus 6p was the last one i had, and this op3 blows all of them out of the water. with the exception of updates directly from google and completely vanilla android, this in my opinion this is a nexus+
I agree with you, I came from having 2 nexus phones, a 6P (personal) and a 5X (work). I absolutely love not having to carry two phones around everywhere I go. OnePlus absolutely nailed it this time around: the weight balance and feel in the hand, the screen, dash charging, very near stock android with nice added extras, battery life is excellent.........
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using Tapatalk
Nice, i ordered it 1 week ago. And i got my Nexus 5 for 3 Years now, and i never want to Change to a other phone than nexus. the 5x isn't that good to upgrade from y Nexus 5. but i give this one a try. i hope i dont get disapointed
Thank for this review.
I dropped my Nexus 6P yesterday and broke the screen. Its usable but for a $200 fee to replace screen I'm thinking of getting this instead.
This might be a silly question but I can use this phone while its being charged right? and will layer themes work with stock?
TIA
Just ordered my OP3 this morning. Love my 6P and have been a biased Nexus user since the Nexus One, but I'm willing to give the OP3 a shot and see what it can do as a daily.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers mobile app
byt3b0mb said:
OP - agree 100% - ... this in my opinion this is a nexus+
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said. I consider this to essentially be an upgraded Nexus phone as well. It's everything I wish the Nexus line was.
MrDSL said:
Thank for this review.
I dropped my Nexus 6P yesterday and broke the screen. Its usable but for a $200 fee to replace screen I'm thinking of getting this instead.
This might be a silly question but I can use this phone while its being charged right? and will layer themes work with stock?
TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes of course it can be used while charging and with dash charging it will keep on fast charging your phone even while you are using it. Quick charge slows down the charging if you are using it due to heat.
Some layers work some are buggy. If you want it to work perfectly I am sure you can find bone stock roms to flash and layer them to your hearts content. I have linked a thread where people are discussing layers on oxygen os.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-3/themes/oos-layers-thread-t3407200
Yes!
Had a Nexus S as my first smartphone. Loved it, got a Nexus 4. Then Nexus 5... Then I made the mistake of getting an LG G4. Noooope, hated it. Decided to get a OnePlus 3; I feel at home again!
I've also come from the Nexus line up, used a 6 and 5x after that. I feel the 1+3 offers a near enough to stock android experience that I still enjoy the phone and the added customization compliments it nicely. As for modding/rooting its pretty much the same ease of use as a Nexus.
Also the recent problem I've had is some carriers don't offer the new Nexus phones or they are rediculously priced so went off contract and bought a 5x for my girlfriend and I, she dropped her phone and broke the screen and since its not from a carrier there's no protection plan for damage just factory warranty so I bought my 1+3 with their protection plan as its a nice option when you want to be contract free so thats another nice option from oneplus.
I'm totally satisfied minus the poor quality tempered glass screen protector that came in the essentials pack.
Also I've experienced the unfortunate interface of samesung and lg g4 and the quality issues those phones suffer from because of phones my gf has used them and rooting samsung or lg phones... difficult or impossible compared to nexus or oneplus, in the lg g4s case only one model could be bootloader unlocked, what?
What you guys think about Camera of Nexus 5X/6P as compare to OnePlus 3 ? I have seen the photography thread of OnePlus 3 as well as Nexus 5X and Nexus 5X camera take better pictures which look like as if you taken Photos from professional camera while performance of OnePlus 3 camera is average. My assumption is based on looking at photos which member posted . I also own nexus 5X probably like everything about OnePLus 3 except camera so i personally wish to have nexus 5x camera in onplus 3
OP - thanks for this, I've got a Nexus 5 and I'm looking toward picking up an OP3, glad to hear it's a great balance between freedom from carrier bloat and customized UI. My clicking finger's getting itchy to pull the trigger on one, just have to run it by the master of finances, a.k.a my wife
Hey guys, i'm currently looking into getting a 3t or s8 because i'm tired of having an iphone 6 for 2 years. Before the Iphone 6 I had the HTC One X, and then the HTC One m7. They were good phones but both spazzed out on me so I got rid of them. I'm looking into going back to android but I don't know if I should go with the s8 or 3t.. any suggestions? I know for the price the 3t is hard to beat, but i'm also a little worried about going ahead and getting one because the Oneplus 5 may be right around the corner...
thanks guys!
I went for the oneplus 3t and I'm keeping this handset at least for the next year or two. Plenty of development and just a quick snappy phone with massive ram.
Goku80 said:
I went for the oneplus 3t and I'm keeping this handset at least for the next year or two. Plenty of development and just a quick snappy phone with massive ram.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I went ahead and got the 3t. I dont want to spend $300 more for the S8. Hopefully we get lots of updates in the future.
I went for the 3T no bloatware, rooting capabilities (flashing mods and kernels) best bang for your buck
I love my 3T. My only concern is Oneplus commitment to updates on phones that aren't current. Sure, the Oneplus 3 and 3T continue to get regular updates. The Oneplus 2 and X get nothing however.
So will this happen when the Oneplus 4/5 comes out? I don't care as I update to the new phone whenever Oneplus does. But for those who want to keep their handsets longer? Who knows.
white43 said:
I love my 3T. My only concern is Oneplus commitment to updates on phones that aren't current. Sure, the Oneplus 3 and 3T continue to get regular updates. The Oneplus 2 and X get nothing however.
So will this happen when the Oneplus 4/5 comes out? I don't care as I update to the new phone whenever Oneplus does. But for those who want to keep their handsets longer? Who knows.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, i'm a bit worried about this too. It seems like we have a really good dev community though so I'm sure this phone will be popular for a while.
For the main question, I'm kind of debating this myself too - I actually have both on order and am going to compare them before I make my decision. However, I will say the only thing that's drawing me to the S8 is the wow factor of it - and newness of the display and whatnot. In terms of tried and true performance, I really don't think a Samsung phone will be able to beat the 3T. Samsung just has never optimized their OS that well.
As for the 3T getting regular updates, this is just a guess of mine, so take it with a grain of salt, but I feel like OnePlus will support the 3T longer than they did the OP2 and OPX partially because it came out later in their release cycle, and that they're continuing to release new variants of it. It'd be really surprising for them to pitch the matte black version of the phone in April, and then fail to provide any updates for it after the OP5 comes out in July or August or whenever. It could certainly happen, but it seems like bad business to me.
Even still, with the independent development community OnePlus phones have, even if there's no official updates, you should still have unofficial releases coming for quite some time. I know someone who didn't replace their OnePlus One until very recently purely because it was still a perfectly satisfactory experience for them.
S8 benchmarks about the same as the Oneplus 3T. Of course they also force touchwiz, a locked bootloader, and other bloatware on you. If you root or care about custom roms don't get a s8.
OP3T. If you're a member here , I guess you wouldn't like to deal with all that locked bootloaders and other stuff to customize your phone
Well, you live in the US, so 3T. Otherwise I'd go with the S8 INTL Exynos.
It is indeed much pricier, but you get a big screen, IP67, much better camera and some additional features. Software side, their GraceUX (7.0) update on the S7 was already great - but the OOS on the OP3Tis just faster and more AOSP feeling
davebugyi said:
Well, you live in the US, so 3T. Otherwise I'd go with the S8 INTL Exynos.
It is indeed much pricier, but you get a big screen, IP67, much better camera and some additional features. Software side, their GraceUX (7.0) update on the S7 was already great - but the OOS on the OP3Tis just faster and more AOSP feeling
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the 3t, decided to order the s8. The GraceUX look amazing. So much better than TouchWiz. Hated that. Also hated the bloatware on Samsung phones, so thats why I did not go for the s7. They have really pared back the bloat on the S8 and that screen, just draw dropping! The 3t is ok, but I hate the fingerprint scanner. Why did OP have to introduce their own method instead of using qualacoms. It takes several attempts some times to unlock the phone. Just dont like it at all!
xvitality said:
Hey guys, i'm currently looking into getting a 3t or s8 because i'm tired of having an iphone 6 for 2 years. Before the Iphone 6 I had the HTC One X, and then the HTC One m7. They were good phones but both spazzed out on me so I got rid of them. I'm looking into going back to android but I don't know if I should go with the s8 or 3t.. any suggestions? I know for the price the 3t is hard to beat, but i'm also a little worried about going ahead and getting one because the Oneplus 5 may be right around the corner...
thanks guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you like to change from one cage to another, take the S8 and pay a lot money for it... But if you like not to be a cagebird anymore, you have to choose the OP3T!!!
Don't make a mistake!
Cheers
Clark
Well there's really no contest here tbh. The S8 is obviously the superior phone. However, it also has the superior price... So it's really up to you how much you wanna spend. You won't be disappointed either way.
As long as you're in the us go with the the 3t. I love this phone, I'm going to stick with it til the 5/6 comes out then upgrade. Even if after his year they slow down with the updates to oos, I do believe with the 3 they will keep up with the security patches. I have flashed most if the roms in the forums and all of them are great as well. Allot of flexibility and the hardware/software combination is phenomenal in both performance and battery. I've had several htc's, lg's, and galaxy's and tbh I don't believe I will ever go back any of them as long as oneplus is in business. Even then I may try out a huawei or another chinese company as well. Bang for buck they seem to have it down very well in comparison to the bigger companies.
3T without a doubt
If I had those two devices in front of me so that I could go home with one of them, that would be 3T regardless of anything
Actually the only better feature of S8 is the display, but nothing more. OP beats the new Samsung in every aspect (not to mention software factor)
MaxFTW said:
3T without a doubt
If I had those two devices in front of me so that I could go home with one of them, that would be 3T regardless of anything
Actually the only better feature of S8 is the display, but nothing more. OP beats the new Samsung in every aspect (not to mention software factor)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Better screen, better CPU, better GPU, wireless charging, better data/wifi speeds, way better camera, IP 6/8 (dust proof and water resistant), IRIS scanner, heart rate sensor.
Come on guys.. I love my 3T too but let's try to stay within the realms of reality here... The S8 crushes the 3T in everything except in charging speeds, software (with this one being subjective) and price. Where I'm from, an S8 plus will cost around the same as 2 Oneplus 3T's.
never go with samsung.
they fck up android so hard, everytime.
worst company when it comes to software. by far.
-Ric- said:
Better screen, better CPU, better GPU, wireless charging, better data/wifi speeds, way better camera, IP 6/8 (dust proof and water resistant), IRIS scanner, heart rate sensor.
Come on guys.. I love my 3T too but let's try to stay within the realms of reality here... The S8 crushes the 3T in everything except in charging speeds, software (with this one being subjective) and price. Where I'm from, an S8 plus will cost around the same as 2 Oneplus 3T's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But it's Samsung
Their flagship will be obsolete in a year or so while we will still be getting independent developers' support. The device is only as good as its software.
My experience with Samsung is just horrible and their devices are just hyped up (like Apple products). If you want a really decent Android experience then definitely don't go that way.
I confess, I quite exaggerated speaking about the technical side of this all but as I said my story with Samsung is terrible and I really do think that their products are just bad.
xvitality said:
Hey guys, i'm currently looking into getting a 3t or s8 because i'm tired of having an iphone 6 for 2 years. Before the Iphone 6 I had the HTC One X, and then the HTC One m7. They were good phones but both spazzed out on me so I got rid of them. I'm looking into going back to android but I don't know if I should go with the s8 or 3t.. any suggestions? I know for the price the 3t is hard to beat, but i'm also a little worried about going ahead and getting one because the Oneplus 5 may be right around the corner...
thanks guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Having used both the oneplus 3t and S7 edge , considering the fact that you went from HTC to iPhone i figure you would not want to fool around your phone with root and all . i therefore suggest going with s8 if you can afford . Like others have said and my personal experience touchwiz is not really that blotted (at least on the international variant ) and camera on the s7/s8 will stomp op3t any day not to mention the water and dust resistance and biggest of all if available Samsung pay !
notanoob said:
Having used both the oneplus 3t and S7 edge , considering the fact that you went from HTC to iPhone i figure you would not want to fool around your phone with root and all . i therefore suggest going with s8 if you can afford . Like others have said and my personal experience touchwiz is not really that blotted (at least on the international variant ) and camera on the s7/s8 will stomp op3t any day not to mention the water and dust resistance and biggest of all if available Samsung pay !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eh I don't really care about samsung pay. I'll probably root it but I don't think i'll mess with flashing ROMs anymore like I did on my HTC's, if i do it won't be any time soon. I went ahead and got the 3t because I'm not really trying to spend $700.
Looked at many reviews on the Google Pixel 2XL and Note 8. I currently have a exynos variant Note 8 and thinking about selling to get the Pixel. Has anybody came from the Pixel 2 Xl to the Note 8 and if so are you happy with your decision?
recepo1 said:
Looked at many reviews on the Google Pixel 2XL and Note 8. I currently have a exynos variant Note 8 and thinking about selling to get the Pixel. Has anybody came from the Pixel 2 Xl to the Note 8 and if so are you happy with your decision?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't do it. Couldn't be happier, even with the lack of Roms on my SnapDrag Note 8.
Yes there are roms or more modding for the Pixel series, but at the end of the day, they are all the same Roms with the same tweaks renamed to something else. Don't get me wrong, I do miss my XL 2 at times but whenever I whip out this SPen......yeah, can't top the productivity of the Note 8.
Jammol said:
Don't do it. Couldn't be happier, even with the lack of Roms on my SnapDrag Note 8.
Yes there are roms or more modding for the Pixel series, but at the end of the day, they are all the same Roms with the same tweaks renamed to something else. Don't get me wrong, I do miss my XL 2 at times but whenever I whip out this SPen......yeah, can't top the productivity of the Note 8.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The s-pen is a great addition but i barely use it honestly. The only reason i havent switched is because of the blue tint horror stories of the pixel 2 xl...in your opinion which camera was better overall?
recepo1 said:
The s-pen is a great addition but i barely use it honestly. The only reason i havent switched is because of the blue tint horror stories of the pixel 2 xl...in your opinion which camera was better overall?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I prefer the Note 8 camera. Mostly because of two things. The draw(right iteration here?) distance for photos is amazing for the Colorado mountains where I live. And also the up close shots are very crisp and clear. I am able to take up close photos of serial numbers for verification emails at work, broken parts where I need to show fine detail and such.
As far as the pen goes, all it takes is finding a reason to use it or just messing around with drawing a bit. I have come to find that my wife really likes my cheesy Live Messages that I draw her, and my daughter stays entertained while we are running errands(rugged phone case). My wife always grabs my phone when we do groceries because of the ease of it, and she's able to make recipes on the fly in Samsung Notes and include clip arts of the photos she just took. Yeah, she uses it more than I do sometimes but I'm not about to drop another $1k on a phone for her.
Jammol said:
I prefer the Note 8 camera. Mostly because of two things. The draw(right iteration here?) distance for photos is amazing for the Colorado mountains where I live. And also the up close shots are very crisp and clear. I am able to take up close photos of serial numbers for verification emails at work, broken parts where I need to show fine detail and such.
As far as the pen goes, all it takes is finding a reason to use it or just messing around with drawing a bit. I have come to find that my wife really likes my cheesy Live Messages that I draw her, and my daughter stays entertained while we are running errands(rugged phone case). My wife always grabs my phone when we do groceries because of the ease of it, and she's able to make recipes on the fly in Samsung Notes and include clip arts of the photos she just took. Yeah, she uses it more than I do sometimes but I'm not about to drop another $1k on a phone for her.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciate your feedback really helps alot with my decision. For my business i need the best camera and in most reviews i heard the pixel was the best but the Note 8 is a great camera as well. And youre right the productivity of the Note is unmatched. My best bet is to keep the Note 8 and flash a pixel like rom to clean up alot of bloat and speed up the Note a bit. The note has the best looking screen as well and i dont want to lose that beautiful screen.
recepo1 said:
Appreciate your feedback really helps alot with my decision. For my business i need the best camera and in most reviews i heard the pixel was the best but the Note 8 is a great camera as well. And youre right the productivity of the Note is unmatched. My best bet is to keep the Note 8 and flash a pixel like rom to clean up alot of bloat and speed up the Note a bit. The note has the best looking screen as well and i dont want to lose that beautiful screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used debloat my devices such as this one. But I have come to find that I use the Samsung apps more than the stock Google ones with the exception of Drive or Sheets. Everything else I use works better because of the Pen.
So I currently have an S8 and I'm looking at either the Note 8 or Pixel 2 XL, both appear to be great devices and I'm really torn on which to choose at the moment! The Pixel 2 XL will cost me £10 a month more than the Note with my current provider in the UK, so it's just me deciding which to go for....
I love the S8 and have owned it for 3 months, been running Oreo beta too, which is pretty decent, the only thing is I get lag at times anything from small to large and I'm not sure if it's the BixbyRemap causing it.
Between the two I prefer the Pixel 2XL for:
Slightly smaller, Note 8 looks huge and 1 handed use will be difficult.
Software, although Note 8 has 6Gb RAM I still hear it lags??
Note 8:
Better screen, I love my S8's screen so this is better.
SD card support, 128gb is a lot on the P2XL it's just not expandable
Draw:
Camera, both have great camera's, Note has 2x optical with live focus where the P2XL has portrait mode...
Dam this decision is so hard, any opinions on the above?
Thanks!
Jammol said:
I used debloat my devices such as this one. But I have come to find that I use the Samsung apps more than the stock Google ones with the exception of Drive or Sheets. Everything else I use works better because of the Pen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea i think i will stick w the Note 8 for now unless the pixel XL 2 drops vastly in price.
Screen
Camera
Battery
That's my decision order. Makes keeping the Note very easy
maverick1103 said:
So I currently have an S8 and I'm looking at either the Note 8 or Pixel 2 XL, both appear to be great devices and I'm really torn on which to choose at the moment! The Pixel 2 XL will cost me £10 a month more than the Note with my current provider in the UK, so it's just me deciding which to go for....
I love the S8 and have owned it for 3 months, been running Oreo beta too, which is pretty decent, the only thing is I get lag at times anything from small to large and I'm not sure if it's the BixbyRemap causing it.
Between the two I prefer the Pixel 2XL for:
Slightly smaller, Note 8 looks huge and 1 handed use will be difficult.
Software, although Note 8 has 6Gb RAM I still hear it lags??
Note 8:
Better screen, I love my S8's screen so this is better.
SD card support, 128gb is a lot on the P2XL it's just not expandable
Draw:
Camera, both have great camera's, Note has 2x optical with live focus where the P2XL has portrait mode...
Dam this decision is so hard, any opinions on the above?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The note 8 is the exact same footprint as the XL 1 with just a half inch more in height. So size difference in negligible IMO.
As for Lag, I have experienced absolutely none. I have been very impressed with touchwiz on the note 8. I only got this phone because of the BOGO deal, i was gonna hold on to my XL for another year but my wife wanted a new phone so I had to capitalize. I wasn't expecting to enjoy a Samsung phone this much. It's a beast that can handle anything thrown at it. It ranks #4 in the highest futuremark test that I ran.
I also am blown away by the speed and quality of the camera. And this screen is absolutely Amazing!
Really the only advantage I think Google has this year is the monthly updates. To me those updates are nice, but not a selling point.
Gizmoe said:
The note 8 is the exact same footprint as the XL 1 with just a half inch more in height. So size difference in negligible IMO.
As for Lag, I have experienced absolutely none. I have been very impressed with touchwiz on the note 8. I only got this phone because of the BOGO deal, i was gonna hold on to my XL for another year but my wife wanted a new phone so I had to capitalize. I wasn't expecting to enjoy a Samsung phone this much. It's a beast that can handle anything thrown at it. It ranks #4 in the highest futuremark test that I ran.
I also am blown away by the speed and quality of the camera. And this screen is absolutely Amazing!
Really the only advantage I think Google has this year is the monthly updates. To me those updates are nice, but not a selling point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your opinions, exactly what I was after!
I think you are spot on the Pixel has the advantage of the updates, however, Samsung Experience is much better than TouchWiz was as Samsung has brought it a lot of features into their software that Google didn't have, it's mainly Google copying Samsung these days I find!
I really like the 2x zoom the Note has, however, the portrait mode seems better on the Pixel, from what I've seen on real-life videos.
Choices, choices!!
I have both and here is my take.
The P2XL is lighter and thinner but just a bit wider and it makes it uncomfortable for me to hold (small hands.) I find the note easier to use one handed. The battery life on the pixel is not that great, it drains quickly and gets warm when using the camera. The camera stinks! I really have no idea why everyone is claiming the camera to be amazing. I get better pics from my P1XL and the note 8. Every shot I take is grainy and lacks sharpness. Yes, stock android is better than the sammy skin but I have experienced no lag on my N8 and I like the fact that it auto adds extensions to call in meetings as I am on the road a ton. I am selling my P2XL and keeping the N8. I find it to be a far superior product.
I've been down this road quite a few times myself and in the end the Note 8 won. The Pixel2 XL has way too many hardware and software issues that I want to gamble with. I returned a total of five 2 XL's for various reasons and one Pixel 2 because the screen had a horrible reddish brown tint to it. The cameras are equal in the 200 + photos I took with the 2 XL and Note 8., they both have their pros and cons. The Note has been running great for me and my son. Battery life is great, the display is the best and the software runs nice and smooth. What else can I really ask for? My biggest complaint is the added length to the Note because it sticks out of my top coat pocket where I like to keep my phone. Other than that I'm thrilled with it. When I start doubting my decision I go here and my doubt is removed.
pieman13 said:
I have both and here is my take.
The P2XL is lighter and thinner but just a bit wider and it makes it uncomfortable for me to hold (small hands.) I find the note easier to use one handed. The battery life on the pixel is not that great, it drains quickly and gets warm when using the camera. The camera stinks! I really have no idea why everyone is claiming the camera to be amazing. I get better pics from my P1XL and the note 8. Every shot I take is grainy and lacks sharpness. Yes, stock android is better than the sammy skin but I have experienced no lag on my N8 and I like the fact that it auto adds extensions to call in meetings as I am on the road a ton. I am selling my P2XL and keeping the N8. I find it to be a far superior product.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your thoughts!
I've read that about the Pixel 2 being wider making it uncomfortable when holding, which tbh my S8 is great because it's not very wide, so I was thinking that would be the same with the N8 so it's great to hear I was on right track. So even though it's got a bigger battery than the N8 would you say they are on par? My S8 can be great sometimes, however, it also can be crap! :-/
There's so many mixed reviews/opinions about the camera I don't know what to believe, so it's good to hear it's not all roses with the Pixel!
I'm still swaying towards the Note 8!
I feel the battery on the note 8 is a little better. Like I said, I see the battery draining faster on the 2XL. And I would certainly be using the S8 if it had 6gb ram and the dual cameras. The N8 is not easy to use one handed but it's easier than the pixel. I actually prefer the more natural look to the XL2's screen but I know I'm in the minority on that one. The screen does have a nasty blue tint when angled even slightly though. And you can always load up the 2XL camera and use it on the note. I was so excited for the 2XL as I have always been a stock android fan boy but google got it wrong this time, the phone is sub par.
Misterxtc said:
I've been down this road quite a few times myself and in the end the Note 8 won. The Pixel2 XL has way too many hardware and software issues that I want to gamble with. I returned a total of five 2 XL's for various reasons and one Pixel 2 because the screen had a horrible reddish brown tint to it. The cameras are equal in the 200 + photos I took with the 2 XL and Note 8., they both have their pros and cons. The Note has been running great for me and my son. Battery life is great, the display is the best and the software runs nice and smooth. What else can I really ask for? My biggest complaint is the added length to the Note because it sticks out of my top coat pocket where I like to keep my phone. Other than that I'm thrilled with it. When I start doubting my decision I go here and my doubt is removed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's what I'm seeing across the net, too many issues out there for a premium device imo! It's a shame really as the Pixel 2 XL has so much potential! Thanks for the link, that's a great link to share!!
pieman13 said:
I feel the battery on the note 8 is a little better. Like I said, I see the battery draining faster on the 2XL. And I would certainly be using the S8 if it had 6gb ram and the dual cameras. The N8 is not easy to use one handed but it's easier than the pixel. I actually prefer the more natural look to the XL2's screen but I know I'm in the minority on that one. The screen does have a nasty blue tint when angled even slightly though. And you can always load up the 2XL camera and use it on the note. I was so excited for the 2XL as I have always been a stock android fan boy but google got it wrong this time, the phone is sub par.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I'm with you, an s8 with 6gb RAM and dual cameras would be an ideal phone imo!
recepo1 said:
Looked at many reviews on the Google Pixel 2XL and Note 8. I currently have a exynos variant Note 8 and thinking about selling to get the Pixel. Has anybody came from the Pixel 2 Xl to the Note 8 and if so are you happy with your decision?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
came for the nexus series, to change for the pixel, once they announced the google pixel 2 XL i was so excited, then i sold my Pixel Xl, for the pixel 2 XL, unfortunately in my country was only available the 15th of November, i had to buy a new device to take time....and i purchased the NOTE 8 for a great price, had it for a couple of week, when finally i've got my hands on the Pixel 2 XL... and that i realized...no waterproof, no 3.5 jack, no wireless charge, no DEX, no connection out from the box with my TV, no face unlock, no dual sim,no SD, no ,no, no for what 939.00€!!!!!!!
the feeling was like having an old phone in my hands compared with note 8, finally a send it back after 24h.
For me it is very disappointing because i loved the nexus series and the pixel xl, but i have to admit that, my last Samsung phone was galaxy S2, NOTE 8 seems to be alien technology compared with this year overpriced pixel.
Looking forward for the Pixel 3 though...
Ariyax said:
came for the nexus series, to change for the pixel, once they announced the google pixel 2 xl i was so excited, then i sold my Pixel Xl, fot the pixel 2 XL, unfortunatly in my country was only available the 15th of November, i had to buy a new device to take time....and i purchased the NOTE 8, had it for a couple of week, when finally i've got my hands on the Pixel 2 Xl... and that i realized...no waterproof, no 3.5 jack, no wireless charge, no DEX, no connection out from the box with my TV, no face unlock, no, no ,no for what 939.00€!!!!!!!
the feeling was like having an old phone in my hands compared with note 8, finally a send it back after 24h.
For me it is a very disappointing because i loved the nexus series and the pixel xl, but i have to admit that, my last Samsung phone was galaxy S2, NOTE 8 seems to be alien technology compared with this year overpriced pixel.
Looking forward for the Pixel 3 though...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow those are a lot of lacking factors too i would have to consider losing if i went to the pixel. Thanks for your input it just makes me want to stay with the Note
Ariyax said:
came for the nexus series, to change for the pixel, once they announced the google pixel 2 XL i was so excited, then i sold my Pixel Xl, for the pixel 2 XL, unfortunately in my country was only available the 15th of November, i had to buy a new device to take time....and i purchased the NOTE 8 for a great price, had it for a couple of week, when finally i've got my hands on the Pixel 2 XL... and that i realized...no waterproof, no 3.5 jack, no wireless charge, no DEX, no connection out from the box with my TV, no face unlock, no dual sim,no SD, no ,no, no for what 939.00€!!!!!!!
the feeling was like having an old phone in my hands compared with note 8, finally a send it back after 24h.
For me it is very disappointing because i loved the nexus series and the pixel xl, but i have to admit that, my last Samsung phone was galaxy S2, NOTE 8 seems to be alien technology compared with this year overpriced pixel.
Looking forward for the Pixel 3 though...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
recepo1 said:
Wow those are a lot of lacking factors too i would have to consider losing if i went to the pixel. Thanks for your input it just makes me want to stay with the Note
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes those are a fair few factors! I've decided to upgrade to the Note 8, just literally done the upgrade! Thanks all for your advice!
maverick1103 said:
Yes those are a fair few factors! I've decided to upgrade to the Note 8, just literally done the upgrade! Thanks all for your advice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah a lot of people don't realize what they lose when they go to the Google Experience. I had to make that very tough decision when we had to switch to Project Fi to save money in a financial crap time. I almost cried when I sold my Note 5!!! Then came Xfinity!??
What other devices are you considering if Samsung continues upping security and locking down their phones. (Lets says all Samsung devices snapdragon and exynos had locked bootloaders)
Working in IT in the Mobile realm I can definitely see the impact that Samsung Knox and Samsung’s focus on security is having. Samsung is pushing it very hard and this lets them maintain dominance on enterprise as far as the android side is concerned. However, to our (xda community) detriment these security features and components are lost when we root. Notwithstanding I was fine with loosing Samsung pay and Knox. It looks like with newer Samsung devices and updates Samsung is really ramping up. I have always been a fan of the Note series and switched to an S7 edge to wait for the Note 7. After the Note 7’s demise I decided to switch to the s8 Plus until the Note 8 was coming out. With recent news on new bootloaders preventing downgrades and bricking devices, Note 8’s having encrypted CSC’s disallowing modification and I’m assuming when Oreo comes out for these devices more security features and processes will leave rooters out in the cold. I was surprised to see the new “feature” Samsung added with the OEM unlock toggle being removed on users devices and them being in “Jail” for several days. I can only assume the s9 and maybe with Oreo updates on older Samsung devices they will also be getting this “Enhancement”. So, it seems to me the days of rooting and enhancing your device are limited at best. Rebooting your phone and being locked out doesn’t seem very appealing to me. Anyway, not to ramble I’m curious what other manufacturers are contenders for some of Samsung’s modding community users. There are very limited manufacturers who are open to their devices being modified. I’ve stuck with Samsung so long because of their cameras and superb hardware and features but now I’m left wondering can I run a stock Samsung device and all the crap T-Mobile and other carriers load on it. I was reading and some users flashing unlocked firmware on their carrier devices were getting bricked with the new bootloader so no help there. What devices would you consider if you consider if in the future if say CDMA was no longer needed and Samsung ran exynos for all their products and they locked the bootloaders. Would you still use a Samsung unrooted or what manufacture would you jump to?
I’m actually holding off from a Note 8 until I see what the Oreo update brings and what else changes and is locked down. The encrypted CSC's also disallow for enabling some core features T-Mobile disables on their version.
When OnePlus finally starts having the premium features as other flagships do. Goodbye Samsung!
Im probably gunna go essential 2 or pixel 3 xl(if its made by htc or inhouse google)
me2151 said:
Im probably gunna go essential 2 or pixel 3 xl(if its made by htc or inhouse google)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Surprised your not scared of pixel. That screen controversy was pretty bad. LG makes there screens. I am familiar with LG quality issues. My last two LGs had bad burn in and other issues with screen.
Essential I know nothing about. But phone is looking promising from the lil I read.
Nick216ohio said:
Surprised your not scared of pixel. That screen controversy was pretty bad. LG makes there screens. I am familiar with LG quality issues. My last two LGs had bad burn in and other issues with screen.
Essential I know nothing about. But phone is looking promising from the lil I read.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I AM scared of LG garbage. If any part of it is LG on the p3XL im not getting it. Some of my dev friends got the essential and they said its their absolute favorite phone so far.
Would most likely stay with Samsung because rooting apart from theming doesn't add much to the Phone imho. It's good and all, some features yeah they suck but I can glance over them because the whole package is good.
If they'd however harden the ability to sideload apps, I'd definitely jump ship to an iPhone.
Inb4 the Apple haters:
OP asked for opinions, don't cry about an iPhone being mentioned.
me2151 said:
I AM scared of LG garbage. If any part of it is LG on the p3XL im not getting it. Some of my dev friends got the essential and they said its their absolute favorite phone so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah stay away from anything LG. Only phone that LG actually makes good is V30. They do make excellent audio in devices. I doubt google uses LG screens in next pixel. Hopefully they hit up Samsung. Now that company knows how to make a good screen.
Now you seem to know more about essential phone. Is it better then OnePlus? In terms of features and Rom/root community size?
Nick216ohio said:
When OnePlus finally starts having the premium features as other flagships do. Goodbye Samsung!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, looking at videos on the 5t now. If I had to choose right now it would probably be oneplus.
me2151 said:
Im probably gunna go essential 2 or pixel 3 xl(if its made by htc or inhouse google)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm I hadn't thought about essential. Need a larger device from them. Played with a Pixel 2 xl at work and its ok. Screen was the worst part.
me2151 said:
I AM scared of LG garbage. If any part of it is LG on the p3XL im not getting it. Some of my dev friends got the essential and they said its their absolute favorite phone so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the input.
SaadatM said:
Would most likely stay with Samsung because rooting apart from theming doesn't add much to the Phone imho. It's good and all, some features yeah they suck but I can glance over them because the whole package is good.
If they'd however harden the ability to sideload apps, I'd definitely jump ship to an iPhone.
Inb4 the Apple haters:
OP asked for opinions, don't cry about an iPhone being mentioned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really like root for blocking ads and viper4android. When I play with non root phones I can't belive all the advertisements.
Sent from my SM-G955F using Tapatalk
naruto.ninjakid said:
Yeah, looking at videos on the 5t now. If I had to choose right now it would probably be oneplus. Hmm I hadn't thought about essential. Need a larger device from them. Played with a Pixel 2 xl at work and its ok. Screen was the worst part. Thanks for the input. I really like root for blocking ads and viper4android. When I play with non root phones I can't belive all the advertisements.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OnePlus amount of Roms is breathtaking. There's good non root apps for blocking ads.
Probable Solution
naruto.ninjakid said:
Yeah, looking at videos on the 5t now. If I had to choose right now it would probably be oneplus. Hmm I hadn't thought about essential. Need a larger device from them. Played with a Pixel 2 xl at work and its ok. Screen was the worst part. Thanks for the input. I really like root for blocking ads and viper4android. When I play with non root phones I can't belive all the advertisements.
Sent from my SM-G955F using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Understandable, I loved V4A too!
For the adblocking:
You could use Ad-Block/ AdHell to block the ads, completely rootless.
Or what I'd personally recommend (And keep in mind, I'm no rich guy) is DisconnectPro. It is costly at 25€ once, but it sure as hell blocks all advertisements or remotely any ad activity.
Works well inside YouTube too, so it's basically ad-free.
Might give that a go, you can find it inside Samsug's store!
Nick216ohio said:
OnePlus amount of Roms is breathtaking. There's good non root apps for blocking ads.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried the VPN adblocks but none of them work as well as adaway. Good suggestions though.
Sent from my SM-G955F using Tapatalk
SaadatM said:
Understandable, I loved V4A too!
For the adblocking:
You could use Ad-Block/ AdHell to block the ads, completely rootless.
Or what I'd personally recommend (And keep in mind, I'm no rich guy) is DisconnectPro. It is costly at 25€ once, but it sure as hell blocks all advertisements or remotely any ad activity.
Works well inside YouTube too, so it's basically ad-free.
Might give that a go, you can find it inside Samsug's store!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never been stock so have not tried disconnect pro. I belive it uses Knox? I hate the US carriers disabling features such as the spam caller ID since they want to sell their own product. I used to use csc to enable this but with new encrypted csc this is not possible.
Sent from my SM-G955F using Tapatalk
naruto.ninjakid said:
I've tried the VPN adblocks but none of them work as well as adaway. Good suggestions though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah definitely not better then adaway. Best 1 I've used so far adguard.
probably stick with samsung
i've no longer have any interest to root plus after setting up samsung pay, you cant really go back
not sure why but this is the first android device i've own in the past 5 years that i've no intentions to root at all
nougat + samsung OEM just felt so complete as an android system
After seeing the OEM unlock crap happen on the exynos Note 8 i went and got a pixel 2 XL.
Although admittedly I am a big fan of samsung and have owned a ton of their devices i will not spend my money on device that i cant do what I want with.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
I will most likely still stick with the Note line, I rooted and ROMd my 2/3/4 notes but haven't felt any real need to do so with the Note 8, I might at a later stage just for fun but only because I have two of them
j_hansen said:
I will most likely still stick with the Note line, I rooted and ROMd my 2/3/4 notes but haven't felt any real need to do so with the Note 8, I might at a later stage just for fun but only because I have two of them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree that root isnt as necessary as it used to be but its more the principle of it.
If im dropping $1200 or more (im in Canada) on a device i will be damned if i dont have total control over it.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
I'll go with Nokia Flashlight and it's fantastic 2 weeks battery life
Cristiano Matos said:
I'll go with Nokia Flashlight and it's fantastic 2 weeks battery life
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
screen is a bit small for porn though
Hello.
I am rooting my all phones starting from nokia 5700 xpress music.(Although it wasnt android, i used to install python and other stuffs).
My last phone was OP2. I rooted that too for screen calibration, cpu throttling, speaker volume, camera and viper.
Honesty i miss viper on note8. Apart from this i didnt found any other reason to root this device while using from last 2 months. Please remember if you root this phone or any other secured phone, you loose knox or other secure feature including payment othions like samsung pay.
I am using Exynos device and pretty much happy with all the performance.