Related
So.....
Are any of you HOX+ owners tempted by the new HTC One?
I'm thinking about it but the lack 64gb is not helping.
So what about you?
I'm getting it in August when my contract is up and currently selling my HOX+ on eBay for a N4. I would say I'm pretty tempted
Edit: well it will depend on the development for the One. If it is locked down and has AOSP issues like this phone then I'm just gonna get the GS4.
Sent from my HTC One X+ using Tapatalk 2
I'm pretty tempted to get it, but I'm also worried about the lack of dev support for the phone. With it being on multiple carriers, I don't see that being too huge of an issue, but my experience with a limited development phone (One X+) has shown me how much I truly need AOSP every now and then. If I see that it gets a lot of development within the first month release, I just may have to go with it. Plus, the dual front speakers are the perfect gimmick for a guy like me.
treygrizzard26 said:
I'm pretty tempted to get it, but I'm also worried about the lack of dev support for the phone. With it being on multiple carriers, I don't see that being too huge of an issue, but my experience with a limited development phone (One X+) has shown me how much I truly need AOSP every now and then. If I see that it gets a lot of development within the first month release, I just may have to go with it. Plus, the dual front speakers are the perfect gimmick for a guy like me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly how I feel. The actual phone is good, but the lack of popularity is depressing for a stock Android fan.
Sent from my HTC One X+ using Tapatalk 2
killman2659 said:
Exactly how I feel. The actual phone is good, but the lack of popularity is depressing for a stock Android fan.
Sent from my HTC One X+ using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree. I just ordered my N4 and will sell my HOX+. I was thinking for a second to get the One but then I am again dependent on AT&T's updates and the dev community to get stock android. I gave the Hox+ a chance but I must admit I hate Sense. I don't use any of the features except the clock widget. It doesn't even sync the adressbook to my google account automatically. I like HTC's hardware but I don't like Sense and this won't change with Sense 5.
The ONE has better screen resolution, but only a 4 megapix camera, has 2 gigs ram, but only 26gig user memory, same size screen, it has 2300mah vs our 2100, 4.1.2, which we may get, both have a quad core 1.7. Honestly, I wouldn't buy it, based on lack of user storage and the camera. My one x+ is plenty fast enough with only 1gig ram, and the better screen resolution will be hardly noticeable on a 4.7" screen. I also have a sneaking suspicion HTC will be coming out with a ONE+ in the next few months or so. I was once a huge HTC fan, but as of late, it's seems like they're purposely making their phones worse so they can release "better" ones down the road. HTC knock it the FLIP off! If you wish to stand a chance against Samsung take everything that rocks with the one x+, camera, built in storage etc, and everything that rocks about the ONE, screen resolution, sense 5 (?) put it in one bad [email protected]# phone and call it a day for the next year or so. Stop this trying to make it better, by making the first release worse, crap.
Signed loyal consumer since the days of the G1, who may soon be switching to Samsung...
EDIT: specs based on US phone for carrier AT&T
NoobDude said:
The ONE has better screen resolution, but only a 4 megapix camera, has 2 gigs ram, but only 26gig user memory, same size screen, it has 2300mah vs our 2100, 4.1.2, which we may get, both have a quad core 1.7. Honestly, I wouldn't buy it, based on lack of user storage and the camera. My one x+ is plenty fast enough with only 1gig ram, and the better screen resolution will be hardly noticeable on a 4.7" screen. I also have a sneaking suspicion HTC will be coming out with a ONE+ in the next few months or so. I was once a huge HTC fan, but as of late, it's seems like they're purposely making their phones worse so they can release "better" ones down the road. HTC knock it the FLIP off! If you wish to stand a chance against Samsung take everything that rocks with the one x+, camera, built in storage etc, and everything that rocks about the ONE, screen resolution, sense 5 (?) put it in one bad [email protected]# phone and call it a day for the next year or so. Stop this trying to make it better, by making the first release worse, crap.
Signed loyal consumer since the days of the G1, who may soon be switching to Samsung...
EDIT: specs based on US phone for carrier AT&T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Everything else aside, boiling down the One's camera to simple "4 megapixel" doesn't really do it justice. They did some neat stuff with the camera sensor instead playing the "more pixels = more better" game. Read up on the One's camera, it's actually pretty cool.
I have this urge to abandon the m8 and go for the Galaxy s5. Mainly because I've read online about the gs5's wonderful camera and the fact that it's lighter than the m8 with pretty much the same specs.
I think the gs5 will be better to hold because of its texture and weight plus I've also read online that the screen is the best screen out there even under sunlight.
Has anyone spent any time with this phone? Anyone in a similar boat as me and has come back to the M8?
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Have you ever held a Samsung Galaxy phone before....scratch that...have you ever dropped a Samsung Galaxy phone before. I've done both and will not buy that cheap plastic crap ever again.
They feel light and cheap. My GS4 LCD and glass broke from a waist hight drop onto the floor while in a TPU case with a glass screen protector on it.
Never again.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
androidbuff123 said:
I have this urge to abandon the m8 and go for the Galaxy s5. Mainly because I've read online about the gs5's wonderful camera and the fact that it's lighter than the m8 with pretty much the same specs.
I think the gs5 will be better to hold because of its texture and weight plus I've also read online that the screen is the best screen out there even under sunlight.
Has anyone spent any time with this phone? Anyone in a similar boat as me and has come back to the M8?
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I preordered the gs5 and after one day traded for the M8. Main reason was that the gs5 bootloader is locked down and I cant stand touchwiz. The phone felt cheap, too light, cheap back, same old slow touchgiz and cool features disabled for US models. The phone did have awesome camera but is not needed really since most people just post pictures online and pictures are always downsized anyways. I find the better light capture of the M8 more useable than the higher pixel count. The m8's front 5MP is also very useful for you selfie users. The other cool thing the samsung had is the water resistance.
Other than that the HTC is way better, just having open bootloader and Sense is the best reason to stay. Also sound quality both speakers and headphone are way better. I would never ever think about going back to a cheap feeling touchgiz phone again.
Good replies both of you.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
My wife had the GS5 and I had the M8 as new customers to AT&T and my wife did everything in her power to rid herself of the GS5 and pleaded I exchange it for the(in her words) phone with the speakers in the front,this phone has such a shi**y speaker and I can't stand to use it..It's been 3 weeks since the switch and I have yet to hear her say one bad thing about the M8..That means a lot to me because my wife doesn't really give 2 s**** about the best phone technology.All she knew was her phone sounded like crap and she didn't want to deal with it anymore.She's even using pie controls now(mind blown) Can't get her into BlinkFeed though,such a shame.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I'm considering trading for a local galaxy s5 for my m8.. The camera is just not cutting it..I thought It would be good enough but it isn't..I will miss the build quality and speakers but I'm pretty fixed on going ahead
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
touchwiz for me was the best reason to stay away, and the lockdown bootloader was another deal breaker for me.
as far as the M8 goes i havent found anything wrong with it, people complain about the camera but for me it does the job, if i want better pics ill buy a camera and not a phone.
chizler said:
touchwiz for me was the best reason to stay away, and the lockdown bootloader was another deal breaker for me.
as far as the M8 goes i havent found anything wrong with it, people complain about the camera but for me it does the job, if i want better pics ill buy a camera and not a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah the camera is just fine for me as well..Sure it's not as good as others but the difference between the 2 is pretty minimal when compared to just using a half decent camera to begin with...Selfies though on the M8 will pretty much destroy anything the GS5 can do.But for regular photo's it gets the job done
There is two fundamentally different strategies with cameras here. Samsung can afford to invest in camera because that's all it has to offer besides the same hardware speeds and Android skinned experience. HTC gave people what the need in everyday life (plus a 5mp selfie cam), with some new tech to improve the pixels. It comes down to they both gotta make money also. HTC went the high build quality with r&d in cam and less features (gimmicks) and Samsung has high features and high camera and lacks in build on purpose.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
---------- Post added at 09:01 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:59 PM ----------
Also add marketing in the Samsung bucket
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I was just actually considering it myself but to tell you the truth, there is nothing Negative I can actually say about the M8. Maybe it's just the phone junkie in me wanting to try it out but I have been in love with how smooth Sense is. I usually can't stand TouchWiz but then I install Nova Launcher and my experience is right back positive with the Samsung interface. With the M8 it's so smooth out the box, this is the only device that I haven't I installed Nova Launcher on and I'm very impressed. Might calm my phone tech ways down and stick with the M8.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
If you are buying a phone for the camera, either go Nokia (sure it's WP, but no one can touch their cams), or LG. I had the G2, and the cam was amazing, and I can only imagine what the G3 brings. I have had every phone released in the past 4 years, and by far the G2 blew every other away. Samsung has gotten fat and lazy and better watch what's coming from behind.
Yea I think the HTC camera is truly unappreciated. It truly is pretty decent now that I'm testing it under low light condition. It is kinda heavy though especially with a skinny TPU case even though the case is pretty light. 160 grams is already on the high side.
I'm also not liking the fact that though HTC says the screen is 5 inches, it is only so when viewing media in full screen.
The screen measures about 4.5 inches without considering the black band for the on screen buttons. Oh why did HTC do that!
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
I had the Galaxy S5 before I had this M8 and I didn't like it at all and I usually like Samsung phones but this one I did not like at all. To laggy, felt slow, glitches, and not much changes from the S4. I'm happy with my M8 it's way better than the S5 in my opinion. And my dad had the Galaxy S4 and wanted to get the S5 but after he saw it's not much changes he got the M8 also and he loves it.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Troll thread smells like a troll.
Seriously though, its silly to ask such a question in the M8 forum. Obviously, most of us here bought the M8 because we prefer the M8; and you aren't going to get too many responses to the contrary in this forum. Ask the same question in the GS5 forums, and you will get a lot of the opposite responses.
As to how I came to decide: I was highly interested in the M8, but decided to wait and see what the GS5 would bring. Also, since I wasn't up for a subsidized device upgrade until May anyway, it was not an issue waiting for the GS5 release. I soundly decided on the M8 for the following reasons:
M8:
- Much better speakers, and front facing
- Much better body design
- Bootloader unlockable
- Camera is better in low light, where I take most of my photos
GS5:
- Bootloader locked down
- Cheap plastic body. I don't hate it as much as others. I actually prefer the "dimpled" texture to the previous smooth plastic, which looked super cheesy. But it simply is not even on the same playing field as the M8's gorgeous metal unibody
- Some might say the body finish on the M8 is too easily scratched. And the GS5 is to some extent waterproof. So the GS5 may have a slight advantage in the durability department
- I don't despise TouchWiz as much as others. Its actually come a long way, and I haven't actually minded it too much on my Tab Pro 8.4. But Sense is simply a cut above in both looks and functionality
- Camera is better in well lit situations
- Has the heart beat sensor and fingerprint reader. But I don't think I would use these much, and they seem gimmicky, and also reportedly are finicky to use based on reviews.
While I was mostly decided when going to the AT&T store, I did try to give the GS5 a fair look and one last chance. It just felt super cheap and crappy compared to the M8, laggy in comparison, and TouchWiz was annoying alongside Sense. It was never much of a contest to begin with. But holding them both in hand closed the deal.
---------- Post added at 10:56 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:37 AM ----------
androidbuff123 said:
Mainly because I've read online about the gs5's wonderful camera and the fact that it's lighter than the m8 with pretty much the same specs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AnandTech has the best (objective, detailed, and most technical) smartphone camera analyses I've read. Most review websites will just say "we like the camera better", or "the pics look better" without giving much, if any, technical explanation or objective reasoning.
My takeaway from AnandTech's review of the GS5 is that its better in well lit situations, while clearly loses out in low light. GS5 is more MP, which is of course an advantage if you will be blowing up or cropping the images. So a lot of it comes down to how you use the camera. But I would not say the GS5 camera is superior across the board.
http://www.anandtech.com/show/7903/samsung-galaxy-s-5-review/2
As far as the weight, the difference is only 0.53 ounces or 15 grams. I don't see why this would matter in any way. In your pocket, you will not even feel the difference. If you think this will fatigue you more to hold up an extra half ounce, you probably need to exercise more (do a bunch of 12-ounce curls!).
redpoint73 said:
Troll thread smells like a troll.
Seriously though, its silly to ask such a question in the M8 forum. Obviously, most of us here bought the M8 because we prefer the M8; and you aren't going to get too many responses to the contrary in this forum. Ask the same question in the GS5 forums, and you will get a lot of the opposite responses.
As to how I came to decide: I was highly interested in the M8, but decided to wait and see what the GS5 would bring. Also, since I wasn't up for a subsidized device upgrade until May anyway, it was not an issue waiting for the GS5 release. I soundly decided on the M8 for the following reasons:
M8:
- Much better speakers, and front facing
- Much better body design
- Bootloader unlockable
- Camera is better in low light, where I take most of my photos
GS5:
- Bootloader locked down
- Cheap plastic body. I don't hate it as much as others. I actually prefer the "dimpled" texture to the previous smooth plastic, which looked super cheesy. But it simply is not even on the same playing field as the M8's gorgeous metal unibody
- Some might say the body finish on the M8 is too easily scratched. And the GS5 is to some extent waterproof. So the GS5 may have a slight advantage in the durability department
- I don't despise TouchWiz as much as others. Its actually come a long way, and I haven't actually minded it too much on my Tab Pro 8.4. But Sense is simply a cut above in both looks and functionality
- Camera is better in well lit situations
- Has the heart beat sensor and fingerprint reader. But I don't think I would use these much, and they seem gimmicky, and also reportedly are finicky to use based on reviews.
While I was mostly decided when going to the AT&T store, I did try to give the GS5 a fair look and one last chance. It just felt super cheap and crappy compared to the M8, laggy in comparison, and TouchWiz was annoying alongside Sense. It was never much of a contest to begin with. But holding them both in hand closed the deal.
---------- Post added at 10:56 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:37 AM ----------
AnandTech has the best (objective, detailed, and most technical) smartphone camera analyses I've read. Most review websites will just say "we like the camera better", or "the pics look better" without giving much, if any, technical explanation or objective reasoning.
My takeaway from AnandTech's review of the GS5 is that its better in well lit situations, while clearly loses out in low light. GS5 is more MP, which is of course an advantage if you will be blowing up or cropping the images. So a lot of it comes down to how you use the camera. But I would not say the GS5 camera is superior across the board.
http://www.anandtech.com/show/7903/samsung-galaxy-s-5-review/2
As far as the weight, the difference is only 0.53 ounces or 15 grams. I don't see why this would matter in any way. In your pocket, you will not even feel the difference. If you think this will fatigue you more to hold up an extra half ounce, you probably need to exercise more (do a bunch of 12-ounce curls!).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your post is insulting, informative and helpful all at the same time ?
Thanks.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
I went from the Galaxy S2, S3, S4 then to the S5. I did not mind the plastic feel of the Galaxies. I actually prefer it for the weight. I never had a problem damaging my phone since I always had a case on it. Anyways, I bought the S5 and returned it in a week. Let me tell you why..
1. Locked boot loader and no root.. This was a VERY big deal and was the main reason why switching to the M8
> Cannot remove bloatware. I tried disabling and hiding some of the apps but it still bothered me.
> Got sick of checking the forums every hour in hope for someone unlocking the boot loader or getting root
2. Finger print unlocking sucks.. Most of the time I had to enter in my PIN after so many failures when I actually needed the phone. If I concentrated, it would work half the time.
> Heart rate monitor is useless.
3. A little too wide for me and it did not feel comfortable holding with one hand. Holding the M8 feels great and I like the feel of the curve
4. Laggy as hell.. Even with a higher cpu clockrate than the M8, it felt laggy even switching from one window to another!
5. Last but not least.. Same sh*t like all the other Galaxies. I felt I was in 2009 with the S5 with looks and appeal.
my 2 cents.
Wow. I just read Anandtech's review of both the M8 and the Galaxy S5. Holy cow! The M8 beats the S5 in pretty much all tests. (barring daylight camera tests of course)
It's amazing to learn really how REFINED HTC's design is overall.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
androidbuff123 said:
I have this urge to abandon the m8 and go for the Galaxy s5. Mainly because I've read online about the gs5's wonderful camera and the fact that it's lighter than the m8 with pretty much the same specs.
I think the gs5 will be better to hold because of its texture and weight plus I've also read online that the screen is the best screen out there even under sunlight.
Has anyone spent any time with this phone? Anyone in a similar boat as me and has come back to the M8?
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just jumped ship from the S5 to the M8 last night. This was a hard choice to make and I'm still not sure I made the right one yet. First off, I think I could have got a bad device because of touch sounds not working...and yes the volume is up and the proper boxes are ticked. I am trying so hard to like this phone and I think my main problem is being used to touchwiz.
Don't get me wrong, there is a ton to like about the M8, but there is also a ton to dislike. My reason for jumping ship is because of no root and locked bootloader.
No bashing me please lol!
Samsung could easily do something similar to HTCDev but they have proven time and time again (by action) that they don't care about developers (unless you buy a GPE or developer edition, but why should you have to?)
And build quality. It makes me wonder why the Galaxy Series is where it is instead of HTC being in that spot.
I actually prefer the S5. I had it but wanted to try the M8 do I traded it but I prefer the S5. It really is a matter of opinion.
I prefer the S5 because it's grippier, the M8 is kinda slippery. I also prefer the UI believe it or not, sense is kinda boring but it performs flawlessly.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
I am on the fence here..Had Note 3 love Amoled but hate Tw and the plastic...I did have the M7 loved it, but camera was bad....Did not like the G3 ...thinking of the M8 or Note 4 ...I don't use the spen and want a premium phone!! Help!!
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
I loved my S3 but the M8 is light years ahead of samsung in my opinion. It's fast and just works like it's supposed to. Keep in mind that Samsung is locking all bootloaders and I don't know about you but waiting on safestrap only to flash modded stock roms doesn't do it for me. My only complaint is that it works too well and I don't find myself looking for mods and flashing new things, which is good, but bad if you like that diversion.
I am also comparing the g3 and the m8. Att is swapping out my s5 for another phone of my choice. Both phones seem nice. I guess I need to hit the store and play with them both.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using XDA Premium HD app
Intub8 said:
I am also comparing the g3 and the m8. Att is swapping out my s5 for another phone of my choice. Both phones seem nice. I guess I need to hit the store and play with them both.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the G 3 for three days ..did not like it....It's very laggy, heats up quickly..I rooted mine , debloated with xposed and still was slow. Another issue was wireless charging .Att&t only uses pma chargers and they make you buy their charging cover and base....no thanks.....m8 is light years better than the g3.
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
A few things
1. I'm going on 2 days without charging and I'm still at 20% - Amazing
2. Just look at the back of the "new" iPhone. Look familiar? Ya, that's what I thought. The design of the M8 is revolutionary.
3. What other cell phone has 2 forward facing speakers? And they sound better that anything out there.
4. Sense 6 is probably the best Android OEM skin ever. I'm with others that say while flashing ROM's is fun and the developers are great and make amazing ROM's but I've not had a reason to unlock and flash.
5. Just go hold one in your hand. Compare it to the plastic feel of other phones. No contest.
GalaxyNotesTx said:
I am on the fence here..Had Note 3 love Amoled but hate Tw and the plastic...I did have the M7 loved it, but camera was bad....Did not like the G3 ...thinking of the M8 or Note 4 ...I don't use the spen and want a premium phone!! Help!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought a Samsung S 5 Active and an HTC One M8 at the same time, the S5 for my wife as we have different needs.
The S5 camera is better, is more waterproof and I prefer the hard-buttons (home, back, menu/windows.) In every other way, the M8 is better. Even though the S5 has a faster processor, the M8 seems faster. M8 feels slimmer and nicer (than either S5 model), battery lasts nearly double the time. And I happen to really like Dot View (and the ease of turning the display off by closing it. )
And iPhone wielding coworkers fondle the M8 in ways they wouldn't touch an S5.
In most ways, though, it's just different. I really don't like the Samsung interface, and replaced it on my Tab Pro, so it's no surprise that I don't like how the S5 menus and screens are laid out. Sense/Blink is okay, but I don't need either kind of live-feed so I put Nova on it anyhow.
I think the M8 is better. Like an Audi is better than a Honda - it doesn't get you from point A to B better, but the ride is more enjoyable. But you can be happy with either one.
I hope no one minds me adding a small question to this thread, as I'm also about to buy an M8:
I've read in many places that the finish on it makes it very slippery. How true is it? Do owners usually use a case or not? It would be a shame to put a case on such a nice looking phone!
if no case - is the back cover replaceable? If after a year mine gets all scratched, can I just replace it with a new one like I do on my S3?
thanks!
Well just tried to buy m8 two different stores and lte would not light up..says no apn settings. I'm in Houston...huge lte here..Never had this problem with any other phones before..looks to be HTC issue?
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
Slartibartfast_ said:
I hope no one minds me adding a small question to this thread, as I'm also about to buy an M8:
I've read in many places that the finish on it makes it very slippery. How true is it? Do owners usually use a case or not? It would be a shame to put a case on such a nice looking phone!
if no case - is the back cover replaceable? If after a year mine gets all scratched, can I just replace it with a new one like I do on my S3?
thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the problem with such a beautiful device. You don't want to cover it up with a case but want to protect it from everyday use. I use a thin TPU clear case at work and when I'm out but take it off when I'm home just to feel the quality of the M8. As far as slippery, yes it's a little slippery but not too bad. The back is not replacable like on a phone with a removable battery if that's what your thinking. E-bay (and I'm sure other places) have backs for sale but you'll have to take the phone apart to change it out since the phone is 90% one piece metal. Check out ifixit.com for the teardown and see if you can do it. Personally I don't think it is as bad as they say it is but I'm a mechanic and field service engineer so taking stuff apart and fixing them is what I do for a living.
---------- Post added at 06:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:53 PM ----------
GalaxyNotesTx said:
Well just tried to buy m8 two different stores and lte would not light up..says no apn settings. I'm in Houston...huge lte here..Never had this problem with any other phones before..looks to be HTC issue?
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe but I don't have that problem where I live (Washington DC area).
GalaxyNotesTx said:
I am on the fence here..Had Note 3 love Amoled but hate Tw and the plastic...I did have the M7 loved it, but camera was bad....Did not like the G3 ...thinking of the M8 or Note 4 ...I don't use the spen and want a premium phone!! Help!!
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had an m8 and "please don't bash me for this m8 owners" the camera is absolutely horrible. Huge letdown with the m7 then again with the m8. I had the m8 and tried to convince myself that I loved it. As far as root and s-off, the m8 is awesome. The camera is horrible and the phone is too tall. I switched to the s5 once I heard they had root and couldn't be happier. These are just my opinions.
an0ther said:
I had an m8 and "please don't bash me for this m8 owners" the camera is absolutely horrible. Huge letdown with the m7 then again with the m8. I had the m8 and tried to convince myself that I loved it. As far as root and s-off, the m8 is awesome. The camera is horrible and the phone is too tall. I switched to the s5 once I heard they had root and couldn't be happier. These are just my opinions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree the camera could be better out of the box but if you play with the setting in manual mode you will get amazing results. Most users are just casual photogs so they need point and shoot and never mess with the other features. I only use my phones camera as a conveiance because when I go to events etc. I take my point and shoot and my HD camcorder. I too thought the form factor of this phone would be too big but after having it for a month or so it's really not that big feeling. It actually feels smaller than my Vivid in my pocket. We won't take your comments as a bash, at least you didn't go with the iPhone Plus.
S5 or M8?
I'm trying to decide between the S5 and the M8 also.
Sounds like everybody is generally in love with the M8 because of the look and feel. Personally, I have trouble understanding why people complain about the plastic on the Samsung phones. If you plan to use the phone naked, then the look would make a difference. I never feel comfortable using these flimsy phones without a TPU case, and once you put a case on it, you rarely see the back of the phone. To me that makes all of that lovely metal a waste.
Otherwise, the waterproof qualities of the Samsung are a plus and most people seem to think the camera is better. Also, the lack of an easily replaceable battery on the M8 is a concern for me.
It seems that Sense UI, the speakers, and the general experience of using it is the big advantage for the M8. Also unlocked bootloaders and the availability of multiple stock roms is a plus. I'm not sure which phone wins out on battery life, but the Samsung has the bigger battery.
All in all, I'm leaning toward the S5, but it's a very close call.
Do you use a case on your M8? If so, what's the advantage of the pretty back?
Just got the M8 love it...very fast , very clean ui..no junk touchwiz here.... no complaints....This phone is very nice...only second generation...M9 will be even better....S5 feels and looks like my 9 year old niece designed ...good luck!
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
I too was in a position to choose between the M8 and S5 when my Galaxy Note II decided to finally give up the ghost only after 18 months of use. Despite a full restore it just kept freezing up and corrupted not only my 64 GB SD card, but also the internal memory. Because my phone is my lifeline, I couldn't afford to take any more time to try to fix it, and bought a replacement - the M8.
I have never had as many issues or physically destroyed a phone as quickly as the Note II. While I enjoyed the plastic at the beginning due to making the weight of the phone lighter, it was also more prone to scratches, cracks, abrasion marks, etc. Although I liked the Touchwiz features, I hated the FischerPrice design. Why are all of the icons huge on the screen? Nova launcher quickly became my friend.
I temporarily reverted to my Iphone 4 while shopping for a new phone. While I also hate IOS7, i did realize that I missed the feel and sturdiness of the metal chassis design. This swayed me to look at the M8 after I found out that the new model was almost all metal, unlike the M7.
I viewed the reviews and specs of both the M8 and S5. While the better camera on the S5 was definitely important, these were the factors that made me choose the M8:
1) Metal iPhone like build. I'm not too rough on my phones, but the even more plastic flimsy build of the S5 didn't seem like it would hold up any better than my Note 2 did. i also hated the new Band-Aid like design. The S5 looks like a toy.
2) Dual stereo speakers. I am a musician and DJ. Music is my life. While the volume of the Note 2 and S5 were "ok', there is no doubt that the M8 was not only superior in sound quality, but offered the rare stereo experience.
3) Camera - the M8 is adequate, but not up to par with other phones, especially the S5 and new LG. However, I weighed this against my use of the device for music. I rarely take photos or videos with my phone. Yeah, every once in a while as a spur of the moment keepsake, or to send to someone, but never to save and print, etc. I realized that the camera was the least important feature to me, so even though the S5 would win in this category, the M8 was sufficient for my needs. That being said, some of the camera features are very nice, and if you use manual mode, you can get some pretty decent shots.
4) Size - Although I liked the bigger screen on the S5, and prefer the technology, I found my Note 2 to be just a tad too big every once in a while. The slightly smaller M8 seemed to still give me the larger real estate that I wanted (compared to the minuscule iPhone 4, which I found unusable for non mobile web browsing). I was not mistaken.
5) Interface. I was very surprised with how clean the Sense 6 interface was. Although I don't use BlinkFeed (not customizable enough for me) it seems like so much more a native android experience. I don't feel like it gets in the way like TW did. I don't even use Nova anymore, simply because I love the weather clock widget. It was designed with simplicity in mind, but not to a point of making it toy like. If anything, it is elegant.
6) Internal memory. The S5 only has 16 GB of internal memory. The M8 has 32. Let's face it, there's a lot that can not be stored on an external SD card.
Other factors -
I really like the dot view case. While I thought it was gimmicky at first, I really find it helpful. The scrolling caller ID, the tap to view time/weather, the quick voice call feature, auto on/off when opening/closing the cover. Actually all very useful.
I do miss having a full RGB led notification indicator. However I'm finding it less important than I did on the Note 2.
I actually like the stock music player. I used Google Play Music on the Note, but now only use it for cloud based stuff (21K songs LOL). Otherwise I've been using the native player. I like the Music Channel feature with the scrolling lyrics.
One thing that almost made me overlook the M8 was that the M7 did not have a removable battery or SD slot. The M8 now features a micro SD slot (up to 128 GB!) so that's no longer an issue. While the M8 still does not have a removable battery, I find the battery life of the phone to be amazing. I do tend to have it on a charger most days, but yesterday I spent 14 hours at the casino. Even with constantly checking my phone, using it for several calls, texts, etc., I still had 20% at the end of the day without using power saver mode. My note would have been dead in 6-8 hours.
Even with the announcement of the New iPhone 6, I do not regret my choice of the M8. I really enjoy using this phone. YMMV, but the best thing to do would be to evaluate the features and how they fit your needs.
Both the M8 and G3 are badass phones. I have both and keep switching. Converted M8 to Dev and of course updates are like they are supposed to be. G3 no unlocked bootloader, can be a problem for some. The lag that those complain about on the G3 is virtually non-existent but sometimes can be seen. I think once LG issues an update, and they will, it won't even be a conversation anymore. I think LG is going straight to L, and will address everything at that point. Of course HTC will issue the same updates, probably faster too, but in the end, if LG fixes some of the "nagging" issues, it will be so much better.
---------- Post added at 08:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:46 PM ----------
GalaxyNotesTx said:
Just got the M8 love it...very fast , very clean ui..no junk touchwiz here.... no complaints....This phone is very nice...only second generation...M9 will be even better....S5 feels and looks like my 9 year old niece designed ...good luck!
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now that's funny. I say the same about my wifes Note 3, so cartoonish.
theandies said:
I agree the camera could be better out of the box but if you play with the setting in manual mode you will get amazing results. Most users are just casual photogs so they need point and shoot and never mess with the other features. I only use my phones camera as a conveiance because when I go to events etc. I take my point and shoot and my HD camcorder. I too thought the form factor of this phone would be too big but after having it for a month or so it's really not that big feeling. It actually feels smaller than my Vivid in my pocket. We won't take your comments as a bash, at least you didn't go with the iPhone Plus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't had any trouble with camera and I prefer the luxury finish that gives the M8 over the S5.
I was gonna open a new thread but this is what I was looking for
Used iPhone 3G > Captivate > S3 > Note 2 ----> Got bored of Android, and more so with constant rooting and roms, and a times frustrating lag and crashing. So I bought into the hype and paid 1K for an iphone 6 64GB ( was waiting from Carrier too and then sell t but wait was 6 weeks ) , used for 3 days and realized I miss the Android control and usage. I sold the iPhone for 940, lost money and ordered an M8 from my Carrier - since I know its premium finish and I simply want to root it
I have been reading about GPE but most people say the stock is best itself
Have I picked the right phone as I want to stay away from the same Rom game and needs a smooth phone
inningsdefeat500 said:
Have I picked the right phone as I want to stay away from the same Rom game and needs a smooth phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only you can answer if its the right phone for you.
But what I can say, is the stock experience is smooth, snappy and won't disappoint. To be honest, I've felt like HTC has gotten very close to having a great stock ROM experience for some time now. And that is pretty much realized with Sense 6, especially combined with the hardware on the M8. I mean, there is always tweaking that can be done with custom ROMs, and whether you want a custom ROM or not completely depends on your own preferences and usage. But I really feel that we are at a point where the stock software is stable, fast and smooth, and a custom ROM is not needed to get basic functionality or to overcome lag caused by Sense (as has been the case for older devices).
That being said, I went to a custom ROM early on (second day I owned the M8) because I can't stand AT&T's bloatware and limitations (blocked tethering if not on a tethering plan). But that is really another matter. Lag and performance are not an issue on the stock software.
Also, you can't really compare the M8 with Samsung devices. I have a current Samsung tablet (Tab Pro 8.4) and it lagged and crashed on TouchWiz, and all but forced me to go AOSP (which made it much faster and more stable). So don't take the Samsung experience as being indicative of all Android devices. The M8 is simply snappy in comparison.
redpoint73 said:
Only you can answer if its the right phone for you.
But what I can say, is the stock experience is smooth, snappy and won't disappoint. To be honest, I've felt like HTC has gotten very close to having a great stock ROM experience for some time now. And that is pretty much realized with Sense 6, especially combined with the hardware on the M8. I mean, there is always tweaking that can be done with custom ROMs, and whether you want a custom ROM or not completely depends on your own preferences and usage. But I really feel that we are at a point where the stock software is stable, fast and smooth, and a custom ROM is not needed to get basic functionality or to overcome lag caused by Sense (as has been the case for older devices).
That being said, I went to a custom ROM early on (second day I owned the M8) because I can't stand AT&T's bloatware and limitations (blocked tethering if not on a tethering plan). But that is really another matter. Lag and performance are not an issue on the stock software.
Also, you can't really compare the M8 with Samsung devices. I have a current Samsung tablet (Tab Pro 8.4) and it lagged and crashed on TouchWiz, and all but forced me to go AOSP (which made it much faster and more stable). So don't take the Samsung experience as being indicative of all Android devices. The M8 is simply snappy in comparison.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tx man, I have 8.4 Tab Pro too. Lot of the comments on this thread are so similar to my past usage with Samsung - man it feels good to be back with Android. I was SO missing the back button the iphone and unlocking with fingerprint was a bore, had to wait till it opens, keep eye on the phone to swap channels on Tune in radio whereas in droid, u can simply swipe w/o looking. Lot of other small things make the difference
I was deeply torn between an S5 and the M8. My wife actually poked fun at me for not being able to decide. They are both solid phones, but ultimately I wasn't able to give up the freedom to tinker. The S5 is locked down hard on AT&T, and while it has root, at some point it's going to be totally closed - or at least developers are going to be stuck on the last officially supported kernel until people get tired of it. There is safestrap, and I looked into it, but it sounds like people are already getting weary of development on the locked versions. Thus, there will likely never be a non-TW ROM for it. The T-mobile version isn't locked, but apparently doesn't perform as well on AT&T networks, and you would have to find a way to get one without switching carriers.
The M8, on the other hand, has a future. Even once HTC gets tired of supporting it, being able to unlock the bootloader (either officially or unofficially) and S-off means that people will be creating new ROMs for it until it, like my old Skyrocket, just get so old that no one has them anymore. That was the deciding factor for me, especially in light of the fact that I switched to Cyanogenmod a long time ago on my Skyrocket, and never looked back. So, in a way, firewater (and ultimately Sunshine) sold me on the M8.
Now, the fact is that I have come to really like Sense. Sure, it doesn't have every option I'm used to in CM, but it's a solid skin that doesn't get in the way. I opted for a full (including CID) conversion to the Developer Edition, and have stuck with it for now. Thus, the ultimate irony is that I have the ability to do whatever I like to my phone, and I'm so happy with stock that I've not installed a single alternate ROM. However, I am also happy knowing that one day I will be able to.
Yes I have an M8 and I don't see why everyone is giving the M9 such a hard time. Yes it looks the same but really no different than an "S" release by apple. Camera and specs nice upgrade and since I don't us a case two-tone color for me. Also one year of free insurance minus loss/theft is a great deal. I also hope the radio is a little better since sprint LTE signal strength isn't the best.
I'm getting 2! Both myself and wifey. We came from M8s and want the better camera and bigger battery. Love that HTC didn't have an extreme change in design... They nailed it with the ONE series.
Coming from an M7 that's on the last legs of Dev support (at least according to BadBoyz) and this will be a significant upgrade IMO. If I had an M8 I might not jump, but ANY improvement to the camera on the M7 is enough for me and there's no way in hell I'd switch to Samsung.
I know the review say the camera isn't that great, but for crying out loud, it's a phone. I don't print 11x14 photos to frame from my camera. It's for posting to FB, Instagram, etc. I thank HTC for not abandoning the SD support too.
I'm coming from the M7 too. I think all the harsh reviews might be Sense related versus the hardware. There has not been a single mention of trying a different camera app or tweaking the settings.
I get that most on XDA are power users, and I think that the reviews are tailored to the "masses" with the software that comes from the factory.
Funny thing about the UltraPixel camera is that my wife always makes me take pictures with my M7 versus her Note 3. It takes better pictures BY FAR. I am on CM11 using google camera app so that may have something to do with it.
I was on the fence with either the M9 or the Nexus 6. Better front speakers, IR blaster, and real FM radio were the determining factors to get the M9 over the Nexus. I am patient and can wait for nighties to hit the M9. Also I don't think I am a phablet kinda guy.
Anyways, I ordered the gold/silver one and can't wait for it to arrive.
I'm on it now and love it I'm pretty sure u all will too. I came from M8
Sent from my 0PJA2 using XDA Free mobile app
Loving my new m9. Waiting patiently for some custom ROMs gotta love a unlocked bootloader.silky smooth by the way
Sent from my 0PJA2 using XDA Free mobile app
Is this the sprintone or the unlocked one?
Sent from my SM-N910P using XDA Free mobile app
This is the sprint forum. Either way the sprint one can be easy unlocked from the HTC site. I would recommend unlocking as soon as you get the device as it wipes everything.
Well I've had this M9 for several hours now and I'm sure I'll get flamed for this, but I'm really not seeing much of a difference from the modified m8 I upgraded from. I'm obviously gonna give it more time, but for the price so far it's really not looking like it's worth it. I might end up taking advantage of sprint's 14 day return policy.
Once Venom ROMS are up and running smoothly, I'll switch to the M9, (currently the M8).
Cool Beans
I still haven't activated mine yet sitting in the box. I won't return it as I like having the latest model but at the same time I'm not a fan of S-ON or xposed not working or at least all the way yet since 64 bit devices.
Haven't decided if I want to change things up a bit and play with the Nexus 6, or go with the M9. I have an M7. It's still fine for me. A larger screen would be nice.
My wife is due for an upgrade. She likes this phone (M9) or Galaxy S6. What phone should she go with. She is most concerned with photos because we have a 11 month old. She is sick of the iPhone. I ask this question in the HTC M9 forum because I can mess with the S6 any time due to the fact that a few of my family members have that phone. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.
S6 honestly. I love my M9 but the S6 blows it away in *almost* every area, especially the camera. I actually liked my M8 camera better compared to the M9's. I just feel the S6 offers more than the M9 can deliver in this generation. I hope things change with the next HTC phone, but that's just how I feel. The sales of the M9 kind of reflect that too...
Crawshayi said:
S6 honestly. I love my M9 but the S6 blows it away in *almost* every area, especially the camera. I actually liked my M8 camera better compared to the M9's. I just feel the S6 offers more than the M9 can deliver in this generation. I hope things change with the next HTC phone, but that's just how I feel. The sales of the M9 kind of reflect that too...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same hardware and better GPU in m9. Haven't seen the S6 in action, but like you said and from what I have read, sounds like the S6 would be your go to for just out of the box choice.
good points
Everyone is making good points especially about the camera. The s6 camera will likely please you a bit more than the m9. However... if you wife is used to an iphone she will certainly appreciate the M9 build quality much more, also less bloat than the s6. The phone is beautiful and we have seen noticeable improvements with the camera over the past few months. The camera is also updated via the play store by htc so improvements are easy to roll out and happen more frequently than waiting for another ota.
I personally will never go back to touchwiz also I love the build quality of the One devices.
I was in the same boat, and had the opportunity to use both phones simultaneously for a couple of months. The M9 crushes the GS6 in essentially every category EXCEPT camera. The GS6 is probably the best cell phone camera out right now, the M9 doesn't hold a candle to it.
I have a new baby myself, so I went with the GS6 for no reason other than the awesome camera.
You can do like I did, but keep in mind, you will be getting terrible battery life, scrolling that feels laggy and weirdly heavy, and a bloated ROM the likes of which I haven't seen since..well..the GS5.
FlowingAway said:
I was in the same boat, and had the opportunity to use both phones simultaneously for a couple of months. The M9 crushes the GS6 in essentially every category EXCEPT camera. The GS6 is probably the best cell phone camera out right now, the M9 doesn't hold a candle to it.
I have a new baby myself, so I went with the GS6 for no reason other than the awesome camera.
You can do like I did, but keep in mind, you will be getting terrible battery life, scrolling that feels laggy and weirdly heavy, and a bloated ROM the likes of which I haven't seen since..well..the GS5.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Having been around both phones I would actually disagree on a few things... the GS6 definitely has a way better display, far clearer and brighter than the 1080p on the M9. Software is better, but as you say still bloated compared to Sense which is my personal favorite as well. Fingerprint scanner is awesome on the GS6 too, something I would like on the M9 since I hate pin codes/patterns/whatever so I just leave my phone unlocked and vulnerable. Battery life on the GS6 doesn't win awards, but then again the M9 is worse than the M8 and doesn't have wireless charging which is just so handy to have when you're going to bed and don't want to fumble for a cord. Also, I will add the GS6 has better signal. I have friends in the exact same spot with the same service, yet pulling down better signal and speeds with the GS6 versus the M9. I am actually going to be getting into a program with the Note 5 soon and I don't know what I'm doing yet with my M9. I really don't want to sell it but I can't see a good reason to hold onto it... I mean the Note 5 will solve the biggest complaint about the GS6 which is battery life so really I won't have any complaints other than Touchwiz.
If you read reviews on Sprint.Com. There is numerous complains about M9 Camera, on the S6 there are numerous complaints about the battery. On the LG G4 there is very few complaints about anything. Users rate G4 9.9 where as M9 is rated 8.3 and S6 only slightly better.
If I bought today, I'd get an LG G4. It also has a good camera. You can enable tethering without even rooting, which is one of the major reasons I root.
Good luck.
mswlogo said:
If you read reviews on Sprint.Com. There is numerous complains about M9 Camera, on the S6 there are numerous complaints about the battery. On the LG G4 there is very few complaints about anything. Users rate G4 9.9 where as M9 is rated 8.3 and S6 only slightly better.
If I bought today, I'd get an LG G4. It also has a good camera. You can enable tethering without even rooting, which is one of the major reasons I root.
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are more reviews bc more people bought M9 and S6 the the LG4.
theotrman said:
There are more reviews bc more people bought M9 and S6 the the LG4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
S6 yes, M9 um no. M9 is a dismal failure (sales wise) for HTC.
See http://www.androidauthority.com/samsung-lg-78-usa-android-sales-631597/