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I am a bit confused whether to go ahead and buy a Nexus 6, given the fact that I am die hard fan of Nexus line up or to go back to other phones which I don't prefer doing. Although, I hear the camera sensor and the optics have improved from the older gen Nexus devices the performance based on review are still not on par with the top notch iPhone and Note 4 cameras.
Comparing the Nexus' usage of the new camera sensor compared to the old and smaller sensors in iPhones - the analysis from review and my reference across many websites only indicates that the end result is mainly the product of post processing software. I am not sure whether I am correct in saying so. The same applies for Xperia line up as well, inspite of Sony producing the latest sensors and bigger sensors in their devices iPhone continues to better those.
Therefore I am assuming Nexus 6 is having all the capacity to produce great low light and quality images additionally with the latest Camera APIs present in Lollipop - can we improve the shots by using a third party software? Will this work? If so please name a few good ones that can beat or on par with iPhones or Note 4?
The response will decide whether I will continue to be a Nexus loyalist or going back to the rumored Galaxy S6 that might come with a light packaging in terms of OEM softwares keeping the Android as pure as possible to enable faster updates in the future.
Thanks for all your responses in advance.
Hi, I'm using Camera FV-5 and I'm getting great results! It has also RAW capability and plenty of settings. I'm sure, that photos from N6 using this app are comparable to photos from iP6+ or Note4
Check these links bellow to make your own decision:
youtube.com/watch?v=tdLgf9DmALY&feature=youtu.be
phonearena.com/news/Nexus-6-beats-the-iPhone-6-Plus-by-a-mile-in-our-blind-camera-comparison_id64437
camerafv5.com/pages/nexus6-raw-samples.php
(i wanted to include these links as urls, but because I'm new here I can't do it)
IMHO it's just about user how good or bad results can be. Of course, you can do bad photos with every phone.
I honestly get great photos from my nexus 6. There is a whole thread in general where we show our pictures. Check it out.
I have personally used the iphone 6 (my fiancee owns an iphone 6) along with the sony xperia phones. I currently own a nexus 6 and I have to say when it comes to taking pictures or recording video, the sony xperia is the winner, but the nexus 6 is a close second. I was very surprised at the iphones picture capability but still does not keep up with the nexus 6 or the sony. You have to remember sony controls about 90% of the movie production cameras along with the leader is 4k technology (in the USA) they have an enormous budget for video recording equipment and lens equipment hence that is their largest area of business. My background is through BestBuy. I worked in the home theater department (TV's and video gaming) for a while now and recently moved to geek squad. Through my experience with using all these devices, I still have to say the nexus 6 is a better phone as a whole. They each have their pros and cons but overall I am very satisfied with my nexus and wouldn't trade it in for a sony xperia. I am also a huge Sony fan because of their television panels (I own a sony 4k TV) but the nexus took the cake for me because of the more up to date processor components and overall processor speeds along with other small details about the device that i admire. even the Sony representative at my store will admit the nexus is a better phone.
I hope my opinion of the devices are helpful.
Thanks for the input
Hi all three, very useful opinions and convinces me. Not sure why these reviewers are always boasting about iPhone cameras while they use some of the old Sony sensors. Not sure when they plan to stop singing this praise.
Having said that, I hope apps like Camera L and Camera FV5 would improve the camera on an Xperia Z3 as well as I also love that phone for it's water resistance and underwater capabilities.
I would be interested to see a sample from FV5 and an iPhone side by side. But after reading all the inputs here, I am bit relieved from my dilemma between Note 4 or Nexus 6. Now I just need to wait for Galaxy S6 launch and their plans on March 1st and see whether Mi Note Pro is launching by then and finally decide.
My other option I had was for a Lumia 930, although not pretty sure what I would be losing in terms of other functions when I move into Windows OS. I have heard that on iOS you are limited in terms of sharing anything to anything while in Android it is more flexible. Not sure how Windows OS behaves. Definitely shortage of apps persists.
I have always stayed away from windows based phones and even computers. I use Linux and I love android. Through many debates with colleagues and friends the one thing we all agree on is iOS is more of a basic user friendly system but with many limitations and android is a much more customizable platform where you have many more capabilities to do practically anything you want. I have heard that windows based OS is first of all, a huge installation and runs slow unless you have a basic computer for a phone. Windows based devices tend to crash too. I feel they are limited as well in their overall capabilities. So if you like having full control over your devices and like customized themes then android is the way to go. If you like simple then iOS. Remember there are no 2 alike android devices but everyone who has an iPhone has the same basic layout except maybe a wallpaper.
Sending back my Nexus 6p to replace with op3t been wanting this phone for some time. Aside from asking many different questions my main thing would be the camera . Initially videos and blogs on the camera said it's in n par with a s7 or note 5 quality . But I'm hearing negative talk about the rear cam blur and clarity. Is there a known issue ? A camera mod or fix or is this just bias opinion. I guess I'll find out soon .
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers Legacy app
androidddaaron said:
Sending back my Nexus 6p to replace with op3t been wanting this phone for some time. Aside from asking many different questions my main thing would be the camera . Initially videos and blogs on the camera said it's in n par with a s7 or note 5 quality . But I'm hearing negative talk about the rear cam blur and clarity. Is there a known issue ? A camera mod or fix or is this just bias opinion. I guess I'll find out soon .
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers Legacy app
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Click to collapse
For me the camera it just fine , I mean I don't expect professional results it is a phone camera if I want better results go for a pro one
One a bright day the camera is perfect wonderful pics , but as light reduces the camera loss some quality and sharpness
I mean for 439 dlls it a good camera
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk
I love this phone and the latest. Oxygen OS update fixes alot of the camera issues witch were fine according to me but im not a camera guy. I got it for the processor and 6 gigs of ram and so far this thing has only impressed at ever corner you can't go wrong with this phone especially at this price point.
I'd say given good amount of lightning, the camera gets pretty decent performance. Once its in lowlight, it definitely has some catching up to do compared to devices like S7, 6p.
There is apparently an issue with the camera on OnePlus 3T where focus stops working. I have read multiple reports now and I am affected myself. Some say this is a hardware issue and some had their phones already fixed by OnePlus. Someone else said a software update fixed it for him so maybe there are multiple issues at work. But those are all defects where the camera stops working properly. Until this happened, the camera was fine and I couldn't complain about the quality at all.
Outdoor photos with any degree of sunlight are excellent. Indoors, with any amount of sun coming through windows also are great. Indoors, with artificial lighting is where it gets trickier. The lower the light, the longer it takes to auto focus; and if your subject is moving, the pics are more likely to blur. If you have some patience, and know how to take pictures, you can get decent results. And you may have to take several photos, knowing some will have blur.
The best example would be indoor pics of my young kids (which I take a lot) which can never stand still for long, even for a picture. But even with some decent amount of artificial light, and a bit of patience, I get some very good pics most of the time.
Another option on the OP3T, is you can change the camera to "manual" mode. This allows you to manually set the ISO, white balance (type of light), etc. This can get you faster focus and better results in lower light. But not everyone may want to take the time to manually tweak these settings.
I take a good amount of smartphone pics, and the camera is important to me. Overall, I'm pleased with the camera on the OP3T. But given, I'm coming from an older phone, the HTC M8 (which is going on 3 years old). On the other hand, the amount of effort it takes to get unblurred photos on the OP3T is not out of line with when I use my DSLR camera.
Maybe a phone like the Samsung GS7 can take more focused pictures, more consistently, and with less effort. And of course there is something to be said about that. But there is also a price. Most folks who criticize the camera on the OP3T are comparing it to flagships like the iPhone 7 or Samsung GS7 which cost almost twice as much (okay, the price of phones vary a lot over time and by region - but you see what I'm getting at). The OP3T simply can't compete as it lacks the fancy features such as dual camera, laser focus + phase detection etc. which all cost money. But what you have is a phone which competes with the current flagships on almost every level (processor, RAM, build quality) with just a bit of compromise on the camera, screen resolution, and waterproofing.
came from a 6p, have had trouble getting my camera to focus, but still love the phone
Is it worth getting a pixel 2 for the camera or is the note 8 with camera mods as good?
I ask this because I am trying to figure out which phone to get, if I am going to spend a small fortune, I don't want to regret it. For me I would consider the note 8, pixel 2 xl, the lg v30 (if the v30 is available in my region), sony xz premium. The iphone x I'd consider, but I'm doubtful unless reviews suggest there is something amazing.
The most important features for me are screen and camera. I do like the note 8 extras, but I could keep my note 5 which I use for vr occasionally, and with my gear 360.
Has anyone installed the exynos zero camera mod and hdr+ google camera port? How well do they work? Are there any video comparisons with these modifications? Also does the Samsung camera sensor have 10 bit colour?
I like taking sunset photographs and low light, dynamic range is probably more important to me than pixel peeping or other characteristics in most photos I take. For my use the note 5 camera with exposure lowered and less noise is preferred when I don't have my Sony dslr.
I'm thinking given the video and camera mods and ports to buy the note 8 exynos if possible ( best hardware) when it's on offer in the future and then just use the hdr+ app and zero camera mod. Any thoughts on this from note 8 owners?
Also is the note 8 worth the price now that you have bought it? Are there any problems?
I can tell you this: when somebody buys a galaxy note, the main atractive should be the s pen and screen size, if these things are not important to you, then get a pixel or v 30 or any good camera phone, simple
Go for The Xperia XZ Premium
I run 2 phones - Pixel XL and the Note 8 - I buy th note 8 because ive always had the note line until the 5 wasnt sold in UK (I imported but lack of SD at time made me sell) and the Note 7 (No reason needed to be given )
The note 8 by far is the best phone i have used from SAMSUNG if you only take into account their products. Pixel XL is for the puriest. I am debating getting the XL2 but wont do so until renewal in Feb next year.
Smartphone cameras these days have reached a point on Flagships where no matter which you go for - You will be impressed.
Id get the Note 8 solely for the extras it offers. Yes its not pure android but custom roms are coming out to help remove bloatware.
Ive had MANY phones in my time and these are the pinnacle of all my experience - For a better feel - Id get the Note 8 - ~JerryRigEverything tore the Pixel 2 apart and it wasnt pretty...
Xz premium paired with 4k hdr TV and vr glasses.
Go XZP, you wont regret it!
Inerent said:
Xz premium paired with 4k hdr TV and vr glasses.
Go XZP, you wont regret it!
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What if he wants a phone that doesn't look like 2012?
---------- Post added at 09:26 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:17 AM ----------
neoraiden said:
Is it worth getting a pixel 2 for the camera or is the note 8 with camera mods as good?
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I think @winol said it best. Imo the note 8 is the best phone for 2017 period. The reason is simple. It will beat every other phone at most things not all. The iPhone 8 has a better processor, the Pixel has a better camera etc... But in the end the s-pen puts it in a league of its own. Even if you don't always use it. It'll save your a** in a pinch. So if your only criteria is a camera. Go for the Pixel XL.
---------- Post added at 09:26 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:26 AM ----------
neoraiden said:
Is it worth getting a pixel 2 for the camera or is the note 8 with camera mods as good?
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Click to collapse
I think @winol said it best. Imo the note 8 is the best phone for 2017 period. The reason is simple. It will beat every other phone at most things not all. The iPhone 8 has a better processor, the Pixel has a better camera etc... But in the end the s-pen puts it in a league of its own. Even if you don't always use it. It'll save your a** in a pinch. So if your only criteria is a camera. Go for the Pixel XL.
I have read mixed reviews about the camera in the Pixel....Sorry, I cant even say that name without thinking the Pixel should be sold at Toys-R-Us? No offence I just cannot stand the appearance of the Pixel range as they look like toys. That is a totally subject view so ignore it.
Cameras. Not my forte so cant really add much to the debate. I understand the Note 8 has a decent camera?
As for a mobile phone the Note series is built around the S-pen. I would never even consider a Note if I had no use for that lovely S-pen experience. Its a mouse that makes ones mobile into a pocket PC. NO other mobile yet does that.
Ryland
Pixel 2 is overpriced imo....it's basically an iPhone running Android imo
Inerent said:
Go for The Xperia XZ Premium
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Inerent said:
Xz premium paired with 4k hdr TV and vr glasses.
Go XZP, you wont regret it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He said he wants a good camera. The camera on the XZ Premium is a steaming pile of CRAP. Complete garbage. Returned that phone within days of getting it because the camera was so bad.
Depends on what you do with your camera. I just want to record a moment with decent color, in focus, and so on without trying. I'm at no time looking to take a picture that will be art although like most people I have from time to time taken some truly great pictures because even a monkey banging on a keyboard will eventually get some Shakespeare. So I think the first thing that comes up is what do you want out of your camera?
As to the XL having a better camera I'm not quite sure that is true. When I look at the comparisons myself and do it blind I will often pick pictures from either camera as being better. The same holds true with the cool-aid device as well, I will pick pictures from both phones as being better when compared side to side. IMO cell phone cameras have just flat become great on the higher end and are better at taking pictures than most of us.
One last thing, Samsung has had one strength in their cameras for the last couple years that in a review a while back was called the fast moving child factor. This is where you pull the phone and immediately snap a pick of a fast moving object like your kids hoping to catch a moment that will soon be gone forever. You're not going to frame that photo, manipulate the objects in it, adjust your setting, you pull your phone and push the button and pray you got it. Samsung gets that one right. The 8 is better than the Pixel by a good margin, cant compare to the Pixel 2 because I don't have one. I did see a review that called out the iphone as being better at that sort of shot than the XL and in turn I know the Note 8 to be as good or better than the iphone in this area. Something to think about.
To go back to the beginning I think for most people the cameras on flagships are becoming a non factor. They're damn good and better at taking photos than their users. If this applies to you then forget about the camera and look at the other features. If the camera is paramount then you may want to widen your scope and consider the Sony.
Nowadays all smarthlones are using sony imx sensor, the diffrence is in software artifacts.
Why XZ Premium? Imx 400!
Iphone8 imx 398, s8 imx333 4k, pixel 2 imx 3xx
Imx400 is a sleeping monster! ?
P. S. XZP when you come home tired and wanna play some 4k hdr 60fps on your brand New 4k hdr smartTV ????
If photography is very important why not do the obvious thing and buy a dedicated prosumer camera?
Music is important to me so I am buying an external DAC-Amp that will enhance the sound from any mobile beyond imagination. Such DAC-Amp's when connected to the USB negate the internal DAC Amp of the mobile allowing a dedicated external device to produce the sound and the mobile is used as the source only.
If one is only mildly interested in music and cameras then any top notch present day flagship mobile should suffice. Its always going to be a question of compromise.
Most high end mobiles use Minolta cameras that are now owned by and called Sony. To that end I would imagine going to the font of the camera, ie Sony, one could not go wrong as they supply most of the trades cameras for mobiles at this level.
Ryland
winol said:
I can tell you this: when somebody buys a galaxy note, the main atractive should be the s pen and screen size, if these things are not important to you, then get a pixel or v 30 or any good camera phone, simple
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I agree! I have a Note8 myself because I actually do use the pen features.
If a user wants to get a Galaxy Note device but not use the pen features, they should have instead got a plus-sized Galaxy S series (like the S8+), another Android phone, or even wait for the release of the next Galaxy S series.
What was saddening for me, was when I went to a friend's house last week to fix their PC, and found his wife uses a Note5 with the S Pen intentionally jammed inside the phone (like the top of the pen appeared to have been hammered in), to the point where it can never come out without taking apart the phone. This to me feels like when (insert metaphor here relating to my favourite TV show)
At least, from what I've seen, the Pixel 2 is a better phone for someone who doesn't need pen features on their phone, and would prefer taking photos, plus staying within Google's ecosystem.
Just sideload the pixel camera. It makes the note take much better photos.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
m.w.lawless said:
Just sideload the pixel camera. It makes the note take much better photos.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
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Would you mind providing a link for this app?
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
The Pixel 2 XL has been having multiple issues with the camera, I'd go with the Note 8. I've had friends that returned it for a new one only to have the same camera issues.
note 8 for me all the way for camera + big screen + spen i sold my s8+ to get note 8 for me it was well worth it i love it and wouldnt have anythin els
For what it's worth, both the Pixel and the iPhones are having quality and reliability issues that the Note 8 isn't.
I'm not a photographer, so I can't expound on the virtues of the Pixel over the Note 8, nor have I even held a Pixel of either generation in my hand. I can say that I am more impressed with the picture quality of my Note 8 than I was with the LG V20, and not just a little bit. I use my phone's camera to capture a moment. If I want to get artsy, I'll grab the Nikon.
A phone is a compromise. Some do better at one thing than another. The LG V series does music better than almost any other phone, for example. I have over 300GB of high resolution music. I don't even consider a phone that doesn't support an SD card.
To get a true reading on what the OP is asking will require true photographers that have experience with the various cameras to check in. There aren't many people that will fit that bill.
---------- Post added at 09:37 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:36 AM ----------
GermanGuy said:
Would you mind providing a link for this app?
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Start here.
Personally I went with the note 8, I had previously the s8 that j was happy with but put it down to try the pixel. While the pixel was great I didn't go with a pixel 2 because of hown Google customer support is. November 1st I was told 3-5 business days to get my replacement cause my pixel was having issues. It is now November 23rd and every 2 days I get told theres no updates wait another 48 hours because they cannot in their words allocate a replacement device for me. I was waiting to get the pixel 2 but after this experience I went and got a note 8 and I love it couldn't be happier best Sammy device I've used and best Android I've used.
I've used the s5, HTC one m8, nexus 5, s7 edge note edge, pixel and one plus 5
For what it's worth I own the note 8 and recently purchased the original pixel XL 128gb and I am absolutely in love with the pixel XL. That said the note 8 is an amazing device and the camera is great. However the pixel 2 XL is just better. I'll be getting the 2xl soon to go with my note 8.
PURPOSE
So 1st and foremost, the plan here is to give you my first 24-Hours experience with the Nokia 9 PureView compared to some other recent flagship phones I have tried. Granted, I have only used the Nokia 9 for about 24-Hours now and can say I have yet to fully break it in to find everything that may or may not be right / wrong with it. However, this will be a unbiased look and comparison. I'm neither a fanboy or sheep. No brand affiliation. Not a programmer either, just a pro-sumer Senior Member of XDA willing to get trolled, flamed, etc. for sharing a look at this phone. Hopefully, I can give "the everyday guy / gal look" without getting bogged down in stats, variables or benchmarks. Here goes...
MY BACKGROUND
No one special. Just a guy that likes the latest tech... phones being at the top of the list. I am a nerd. No doubt about that. I think anyone that knows about XDA probably is to some extent. No brand loyalty. I have had the privilege to try out the following phones:
1. Samsung S10 128GB / 8GB
2. Google Pixel 3 XL
3. Xiaomi Mi 9 Global Version 64GB / 6GB
4. iPhone XS Max
5. Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro Transparent Global
And probably some more, but these are the most recent. Does that make me qualified to make a review... Maybe. It does make me an idiot that likes new phones, though. I am always looking for something that meets my needs but also is a good phone. Currently with TMobile but have been with ATT, Verizon & Sprint at some point 20 years of using cell phones.
MY NEEDS
I drive about 45 miles each way everyday to work (yes, my work week is currently 7 days a week with a few occasional days off). So, with this in mind and where I drive. I need the minimum requirements:
1. Can Stream Music
2. Android Auto / Apple CarPlay Compatible w/ My 2018 Honda
3. An equalizer of some sort since I have only switch out my new cars speakers for better ones and don't plan on changing or adding a better sound system.
4. Decent pictures when needed
5. Relatively not laggy - will sometimes do some ROM-ing or some customization but since I tend to get rid of the phones quickly I try not to void warranties or make it too non-stock
THE COMPARISON
I am looking at my experience with the Nokia 9 and the other flagships under/around these requirements and some normal stuff like battery, screen, snappiness, camera & software. Here goes:
BATTERY
This has been a hot topic as of late as the larger phones continue to dominate this field (duh... larger phone mean more room for larger battery), however 3340 - 3800 mAh batteries seemed to be the "standard" for phones the size of the Nokia 9. During setup, from 100%, I tortured it setting up all my apps from scratch while on AC-wireless connection... then after all the app downloading, logging apps in and setting up further. I would say a good 5 to 6 hours of heavy use on Wifi drained it to 56% battery... decent performance given the amount of hammering on it I was doing. If normal day away from home is 12 hours with normal use, I feel it goes the distance... Is it a battery champ like the iPhone XS Max, no. Is it one of the better phones in its group like the S10 and Xiaomi Mi 9... you bet. I feel Android One has everything to do with it... More on Android One later.
SCREEN
At a 5.99" OLED at 18:9 aspect, I do feel that the forehead and chin on the phone is a little circa 2017 - 2018. With that said, I do feel it is more pleasant than "Mein Fuhrer" mustache going on with the Pixel XL 3... so much so I had to toggle no notchiness in the developer settings. The "Little Mac" swing and a miss punch out on the Samsung S10 is definitely not my cup of tea ... I found it annoying for one and the fact that they have graphics to swirl around it to make that much more noticeable is even more unsettling. As for the actual screen itself, the colors, brightness and clarity is awesome albeit small especially if you toggle down the screen size in settings... with that, it is a little difficult to manage photos properly with the size of screen. Not impossible but it can try your patience... but the screen itself is definitely better than the Xiaomi Phones and the Pixel 3 XL... the S10 still has the nicest screen but Samsung is getting me annoyed with the continue elongation of the phone... soon it will have a 76:5 aspect ratio... and will look like a Hershey Bar... btw Samsung, don't take design cues from a candy bar company... just sayin'
THE FINGERPRINT SCANNER
Probably the most controversial item on the Nokia 9. Yes it is not great.... I would place it below the scanner in the S10 & Xiaomi Mi 9 but better than the Mi 8.... Pixel 3 XL , you don't count with your don't rock the boat rear sensor... which of course is super fast. Honestly, this tech is not ready for prime time on any of these phones. The S10 comes with a plastic screen protector that makes it hard at first to register the scanner. I felt like I pressing my finger through the display. It did start working decently at about a 90% success rate, after programming fingers a few different time. The Nokia 9 is definitely 75% at best with just one scan of each of my thumbs... as mentioned in different threads, going to add a second scan of each thumb to see of that improves... I feel though that Nokia HMD will patch it to make it slightly better. With facial recognition available, although not as secure, helps for getting into the phone and really the finger print is only needed for the different apps requiring. There's a learning curve for sure to get it to work well but the same goes for the S10... Definitely, not the "deal breaker" everyone's trying to paint... it's the price of new technology
SOFTWARE
Android One to me, besides the Pixel 3 XL and the iPhone XS Max, is in a class of android that Samsung and Xiaomi can't touch. Vanilla Stock Android (for the most part) is a breath of fresh air. Everyone is creaming in their pants that One UI is so much better TouchWiz for Samsung. When your yardstick is the garbage that was TouchJizz, saying One UI is better without qualifying it further is not a great state of affairs. I personally did not find it "that much better" and was immediately looking to replace the launcher with the pixel launcher or similar iteration immediately. I feel as soon as they take away the google assistant screen to the left on the homepage, its a failure... that's of course is a personal preference. Bixby blows... kill him/her off Samsung... and have Bixby take Siri with them... Google Assistant, the swipe left news screen should NEVER be removed... if it happens, then google and android lose a customer for life... just saying... can't wait for timely security updates that will never come to Samsung. Xiaomi on their own do a great job to update. not much to say about their interface other than like most Xiaomi phones... notifications can sometimes be a pain to get to work right due to aggressive battery savings. Xiaomi also does not have the assistant screen to the left :crying: replaced easily with pixel launcher... the S10 was not as easy... could not just use pixel launcher from apkmirror and had to buy action launcher to mimic. The experience of as close to vanilla android on the pixel 3 xl and the nokia 9 just can't be touched. The 6GB phone rocking the 845 performs IMO better than the 855 8GB S10. Even the Xiaomi Mi 9 feels faster than the S10, 845 or 855.
CAMERA
Ok, camera... or as you all know cameras when speaking about any of these phones except you, you "one-eyed monster" pixel 3 xl. Although I haven't put it through the regiment of use cases, The Pentacular camera explosion that is the Nokia 9 is something I'm digging. If your looking for a point and shoot and send master class phone, get the iPhone 8 XS Max, Google Pixel 3 XL or the Xiaomi Mi 9 in that order. For me, Samsung always supposedly has good cameras in their phones but being a person that went to photography school, shot professionally and still cares about the pictures they take... the software non-sense that the S10 does with pixel smoothing, HDR, etc., etc. makes everything no genuine. The other phones too suffer from this at times as well. Don't get me wrong... Night Shot on the Pixel 3 XL is a feet of software magic... quite frankly, google needs to share this tech with other OEMs to make the sustainability of Android that much better. But if your looking for a genuine picture with great image detail and the ability to adjust in-box, the Nokia 9 excels. Yes, you pay for it in processing time. Are you going to want to take this phone to Monaco to caught a F1 car in motion... hell no, but if you want on par caliber shots with a DSLR with RAW Images on outdoor, standard to semi-low light situations... I don't believe there's a camera that compares... for the price... and that leads to...
VALUE FOR YOUR DOLLAR
Although not the cheapest phone, at $600 USD (pre-sale pricing, $700 now), you get a lot of phone for the dollar. The only better value is you just want to go the point, shoot and send route is the Xiaomi Mi 9 at about $530 USD. As always, Samsung at over $800 is not worth it. Not worth it for camera, not worth it for software, design, etc. Samsung Pay to me is the only thing Samsung uniquely has that I wish every phone did. The Pixel 3 XL which I was able to get around $550 was a good value too, but is barely worth it north of $600 buying new. Yes it has the best single shooting camera of practically any phone in its class, but I feel it doesn't run as smoothly as the Nokia 9 with the extra 2GB RAM increase. Of course, Apple cost to value is in a different class... yes the phone is $1100... but you'll also be able to probably sell it in 2 years for $600 as well. Try that with an android phone and you'll get laughed at that it retains 60% value after 2 years. The Nokia 9 packs the right amount of stuff to make it a great value IMO. It would be a slam dunk of course if it had a SD 855 as opposed to 845 but it would be probably $100 more expensive without adding much value. Android One is wonderful and a great choice. Wireless charging (OnePlus, you can't add wireless charging, are you just dumb or what at this point?) The 5 cameras is a great gimmick and works as advertised. Everyone expecting the world out of a $600 phone... it has a better camera then phones $200 - $500 more than what it costs. Can you shoot in a pitch black room... no? Why are you? You creep... you spying on me... it is a little weird
OVERALL
The Nokia 9 is not the phone for everyone. It's the phone for a person that want great value in a phone capable of taking amazingly detailed photos in its price category. Can you point, shoot, send... sometimes. Does the fingerprint reader work ok? Sometimes. Is it a phone pushing some new hardware envelopes in a cost affordable package? Always! The fingerprint reader hate is just that... hate without a 100% justification. Is it an annoyance, it can be... does it overshadow the value of this phone for those of us wanting more from their phone cameras, absolutely not. It is also by no means cutting edge on design... but it doesn't have to be sporting 5 cameras... chins and foreheads are nice when done tastefully (look at Angelina Jolie... maybe not 2019 Angelina maybe circa 2005 Angelina :highfive: ) It not an ugly phone is all I'm saying. Can the big boys in the cell phone game learn something from the once dominate Nokia (actually HMD) is that innovation is needed to remain relevant... think if Apple put 5 cameras on its next phone (would never happen) but what if it did. They'd be like "The Job-biness is Back at Apple" "Apple, the innovators again" and a multitude of other stupid headlines. Lets face it, this phone has a gimmick, a fairly great one but gimmick nonetheless. Will it catch on? Is it years ahead of its time? It just maybe. As always, this is just Some Guys 24-hour Opinion....... :good:
Great first 24 hour impressions
Camera question
Thanks for the review, mine arrives March 18 and looking forward to the camera. The processing time has been mentioned all over the place but I am still unclear as to whether the processing time prevents you from taking the next shot. For example, I would most likely always shoot raw with the full depth turned on. I am more interested in being able to take the next exposure quickly than looking at the last shot on the phone's screen. So, wondering how quickly one can take the next shot.
Thanks!
jhw61032 said:
Thanks for the review, mine arrives March 18 and looking forward to the camera. The processing time has been mentioned all over the place but I am still unclear as to whether the processing time prevents you from taking the next shot. For example, I would most likely always shoot raw with the full depth turned on. I am more interested in being able to take the next exposure quickly than looking at the last shot on the phone's screen. So, wondering how quickly one can take the next shot.
Thanks!
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From experience it doesn't keep you from taking the next shot... I haven't done it with say more than 2 or 3 shots though... don't know how far it will let you go and tell you it can't process anymore. The processing is not unbearable either.... its just kids nowadays, if it isn't ready in 1.5 seconds, time to troll Nokia on a phone that is at least trying to change things up.... :victory:
Hello there, everyone! I'm in the market for a new phone, and I currently own a Google Pixel 2. When it comes to phones, photo quality is a significant priority for me, therefore I'm wondering if the Samsung Galaxy S21 is the best option for the camera, or if the Google Pixel 6 or perhaps a different phone altogether would be better. Is the Samsung Galaxy S21, in general, the greatest phone on the market right now?
https://router-address.uno/
In general is s21u the best (in android phones)
For camera pixel 6 pro is better.
bisky24 said:
Hello there, everyone! I'm in the market for a new phone, and I currently own a Google Pixel 2. When it comes to phones, photo quality is a significant priority for me, therefore I'm wondering if the Samsung Galaxy S21 is the best option for the camera, or if the Google Pixel 6 or perhaps a different phone altogether would be better. Is the Samsung Galaxy S21, in general, the greatest phone on the market right now?
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If you're talking about stills alone, the S21 ultra is easily in the top 5 phones in the market, possibly top two, depending on your visual preference. As far as lens array versatility is concerned, it's probably the best.
However if by camera you mean video as well, then the iPhone still takes the crown overall. Of course this is personal opinion (and it pains me to admit this), but I've used both and if I had to choose one phone based on camera package alone, I'd go for the iPhone 13 Pro/ Max.
enigmaamit said:
If you're talking about stills alone, the S21 ultra is easily in the top 5 phones in the market, possibly top two, depending on your visual preference. As far as lens array versatility is concerned, it's probably the best.
However if by camera you mean video as well, then the iPhone still takes the crown overall. Of course this is personal opinion (and it pains me to admit this), but I've used both and if I had to choose one phone based on camera package alone, I'd go for the iPhone 13 Pro/ Max.
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Agreed. I'd also say that the iPhone has the edge for "on the fly" whip it out & shoot. The s21 Ultra requires a few extra seconds to frame, focus and iris. I haven't tried a camera app outside of stock and I can only see this getting better with better software.
That said, camera was huge to me when I got my s21 Ultra at the end of last month. I am very happy and I believe this phone is currently as close as Android will get to the camera quality of the iPhone. Something tells me we'll always be playing catch-up in this department but hey, what can you do. I'll never own an iPhone. I will deal.
bisky24 said:
Hello there, everyone! I'm in the market for a new phone, and I currently own a Google Pixel 2. When it comes to phones, photo quality is a significant priority for me, therefore I'm wondering if the Samsung Galaxy S21 is the best option for the camera, or if the Google Pixel 6 or perhaps a different phone altogether would be better. Is the Samsung Galaxy S21, in general, the greatest phone on the market right now?
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Click to collapse
for android the pixel 6 pro is the best (pixel 6 too)
lol the s21 ultra is not as good as the iphone 13 pro max calling it the greatest camera is wrong
The S21U has the Hardware and the Versatility of different lenses and the Zoom range which makes it a Great Buy.
It definitely has a Very Good Camera system and its up there among the Top Phones.
It definitely needs software improvements to really make use of the Hardware.
So In the Grand scheme of things Overall for an Android Phone its the Best Out there.
Also Do note that the S21U uses WYSIWYG ( what you see is what you get) technology for the camera so you know how your photo will look before you take it.
The Pixels do the Processing later after you have taken the photo. So the Photo looks better after the processing although it will look crap while taking it.
Honestly if huawei wasn't banned and lost google services the camera on the p50 pro might have been the best.
I had the P40 pro plus and the s21 ultra now both on par but i would give Huawei the edge for the better (more stable video) and night mode
I like to point and shoot....HDR is a bit wild in the sun....can't fault it for easy use....
I took this just random plane was according to flight radar at 30000 ft. Took a few shots to get
Sorbert said:
I took this just random plane was according to flight radar at 30000 ft. Took a few shots to getView attachment 5508531
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Honestly that's a pretty fantastic shot given that it's 6 miles above you.
S21 ULTRA is the best. Period. iPhones may have an edge in some areas but the s21U still beats it. You just cant fight with the ZOOM cameras, they are super useful! And again, Android is just better than IOS, unless you are a girl or a guy who does not care about anything deeper than basic App use.
Alas, YES, the default camera app does NOT record great video, iPhone certainly beats it out of your pocket. However, if you install Filmic PRO on your S21U and set a profile properly, the quality is out of this world, slashes the iPhone.
By setting up Filmic properly, I mean to put it in 4K, Filmic Quality, 30 FPS, OIS, Sharpness to DISABLED, and Noise removal to FAST or HIGH QUALITY. Try it, it is worth it.
babyboy3265 said:
S21 ULTRA is the best. Period. iPhones may have an edge in some areas but the s21U still beats it. You just cant fight with the ZOOM cameras, they are super useful! And again, Android is just better than IOS, unless you are a girl or a guy who does not care about anything deeper than basic App use.
Alas, YES, the default camera app does NOT record great video, iPhone certainly beats it out of your pocket. However, if you install Filmic PRO on your S21U and set a profile properly, the quality is out of this world, slashes the iPhone.
By setting up Filmic properly, I mean to put it in 4K, Filmic Quality, 30 FPS, OIS, Sharpness to DISABLED, and Noise removal to FAST or HIGH QUALITY. Try it, it is worth it.
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Hadn't heard of that app before. Went to play store to download it but skeptical due to the poor reviews (3.4 star rated)
I filtered reviews by device and the S21 Ultra user reviews are terrible, mostly 1 star.
It costs a pretty penny too, so I decided not to go for it unless I get more confirmed testimonials from other users.
I can't stand Apple but I have loved their camera for a long time, I used to think it was better until I started using Gcam on the S21 Ultra. I like it way more now, the stock Samsung camera apps have always left so much to be desired. You have this amazing piece of hardware, but a clunky, under optioned, restrictive camera app. Never made any sense to me. I guess since I come from a full frame, I'm always left wanting more customization. Gcam has been great so far.