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Here is my LONG and slightly biased review of the 3 top devices right now.
I had a DNA, Nexus 4, and Note 2 all at the same time and here is a summary of my thoughts on how they compare.
The DNA and Note 2 were my personal phones, the Nexus 4 belonged to my company and was purchased for a tear down analysis. I got to use it for about a week.
I have been following the HTC J Butterfly ever since it was announced in Japan. Although I was 100 percent satisfied with my Note 2, I was quite intrigued with the phone's full 1080 progressive display. So many pixels crammed in 5" of screen real estate must be amazing I figured. I wanted to see if this phone would give me second thoughts and sway me away from my beloved Note 2.
Screen:
1. DNA
2. Note 2
3. Nexus 4
The crown jewel of the HTC DNA is the display, while quite amazing in person, it reminds me a lot of the iPhone 5's Retina display, just bigger. I know the DNA has a much higher ppi density, but in reality you really can't tell the difference once the resolution gets so high in a 4-5" screen. Only situation where I could clearly distinguish the difference was in text, and when zoomed all the way out and the texts are all microscopic but still legible if you put a magnifying glass to it.
The novelty of the 1080P screen wears out QUICK. I showed a few of my co-workers and friends/families and they couldn't really see what the big fuss was all about. They say their iPhone 4S/5 ect. looks the same. Oh well, I should have brought with me a magnifying glass to brag about the difference I suppose. Once the novelty wears off, the beautiful screen becomes more of a curse. A LOT of games/apps don't work right with the 1080p display. I know developers will eventually update their apps, maybe, to support the 1080p resolution but in the meantime it's a waiting game. I hate waiting...and it seems like I'm missing out on a lot of good games and apps while other phones get to enjoy it RIGHT NOW.
Next, The high ppi count combined with HTC sense lags this phone. You can tell it taxes the GPU/CPU pushing all those pixels. If you claim your DNA doesn't lag, then you either don't know what lag is, or never experienced a phone that is lag-free. The iPhone 5 is lag free, the Nexus 4 and Note 2 are "almost" lag free but those two still offer much smoother UI performance as a whole than the DNA.
The Nexus 4 screen is "nice" but it's nothing to write home about, nor is it super uber amazing like some Nexus fans might lead you to believe. The viewing angles and resolution are above average but the color is quite disappointing. Everything looks washed out and drab on the screen next to the DNA and Note 2, no real pop or anything to make it stand out. It reminds me a lot of the display on my LG G2X, just higher resolution.
Note 2's screen, don't be fooled by the "only" 267ppi count. This screen is by far one of the best displays I've seen on a smartphone, and I've had pretty much most all high end smartphones due to the line of work I do and frankly, my addiction. The lame background that Samsung loads on this phone default from the factory does not do the phone justice. I can see how a person would think the screen isn't anything special when they first turn it on. Com'on Samsung, load a high resolution default background to show off that beautiful screen, not some low resolution, plain blue background with a feather in the back.
This display is not like the other Samsung AMOLEDs of the past like the Note 1, Galaxy S, Nexus, Galaxy S3. Those are all Pentile matrix. Those are not comparable to the Note 2's screen.
The Note 2 is an RGB matrix OLED HD NON-PENTILE display, the highest resolution one that Samsung has ever put on a phone. And it's a spectacular display, which blows the other Samsung SuperAMOLED's out of the water. Everything looks sharper on a non-pentile display. Don't be fooled by the ppi count on AMOLED's when comparing pentile to non-pentile, the S3 might have a higher ppi density but the Note 2 offers a superior viewing experience. Text, images, ect. all look much more clear, sharper and cleaner on the Note 2.
It doesn't quite match the DNA's overall brightness and resolution but it's a solid, high resolution beautiful screen. Better than the Nexus 4's screen by far.
Camera:
Camera quality wise I would rank them as follows.
1. Note 2
2. DNA
3. Nexus 4
The Note 2 takes the best pictures in all light conditions, the DNA takes good pictures in good lighting but they produce a LOT of noise and it gets worse as the lighting drops. Noise is very apparent when you blow the picture up to 100 percent crop. The Nexus 4 is last place, I could not take a decent picture with that thing especially low light. The Note 2 takes really high quality pictures without a lot of noise, I am very impressed with it.
Build:
Build quality and feel.
1. Nexus 4
2. DNA
3. Note 2
I got to hand it to LG and Google on the Nexus 4, this thing feels like a million bucks in your hand. Glass front and back, rubber surround between. It just feels very premium. Like German Engineered. =) It just feels really good in your hand. Just don't drop it.
The DNA feels... Japanese. Very well built, gives the impression that it should last for a long time and fare well in drop survival . Doesn't quite match the Nexus for that extra premium feel. Very ergonomic to hold, I think it was my favorite thing about the DNA. It felt really nicely balanced in your hand for it's size.
Sadly the Note 2 feels like a GM product. Plastic, plastic, plastic. Even the simulated metal surround is just painted plastic. Upside is it's relatively light for it's size but don't expect it to have a premium feel to it, it's not bad, it's actually very solid but just not premium feeling like the other two. Feels better in the hand than the Note 1, which was kinda ridiculous and shaped more like a tablet. The Note 2 feels like a phone, just a large one. Not the most comfortable phone to hold for a long time one handed but definitely not that bad.
Software.
1. Note 2
2. Nexus 4
3. DNA
The Note 2 is on a whole different planet when it comes to functionality and software. I know many people scoff at Touchwiz and Sense, or any UI overlay that messes with the pure Android experience. I too was one of those people. My mind was blown when it came to the Note 2. It's been a month since I had my international Note 2, and about a week with my T-Mobile Note 2. I am still finding out new incredible things the software and S-Pen can do on this phone. Touchwiz is truly great on this phone, also it is butter smooth in operation. I can't believe I'm saying this but Touchwiz on the Note 2 makes pure Android 4.2 on the Nexus 4 seem rather lame and boring. It seems like Samsung really took their time, did their homework to really optimize the operation of their UI on this phone. Rooting and Installing custom roms is as easy as they get on the Note 2. Flash 1 simple file, and bam you got a custom recovery. Root and install custom roms and kernels till your hearts desire!
HTC Sense, now this is one beautiful looking UI. Unfortunately DNA is loaded to the gills with bloatware, OMG I've never seen so much bloat on a phone. You can tell the UI really taxes the phone's CPU and GPU. The performance definitely do not match the benchmarks. Don't get me started on unlocking the bootloader on this thing, have you guys seen the instructions? Seems more complicated than brain surgery with the risk of bricking your phone the whole process.
What can I say about the Nexus 4? It has pure 4.2 Android and is very smooth. On par with the Note 2. Pure Android feels sorta naked, with not much stuff to discover. It's plain jane, what pisses me off is Google decided to take out the AOSP browser and made Chrome the default browser. No flash support and performance isn't that great. I'm surprised that Chrome is actually pretty decently smooth on the Nexus 4 but still not as good as the stock AOSP browser. I did not like the on screen buttons which took a lot of screen real estate away.
I always found the S-Pen on the original Note kinda gimmicky, not so much on the Note 2. It is incredibly useful on the Note 2 and I find myself using it ALL THE TIME and I'm not a pen/tablet kinda guy. It's literally 10 times more accurate and functional on the Note 2 loaded with all kinds of great features. Air view is one of them and awesome!
Battery life:
1. Note 2
2. DNA
3. Nexus 4
Okay this is no contest. I am a HEAVY user with a lot of screen on time, I hardly charge my phones. The Note 2 gets me through the day with Heavy Usage, 10+ hours and I still have 25 percent reserve. Same type of usage, the Nexus 4 is dead in 3 1/2 hours flat The DNA is slightly better but still dead in about 4-5 hours of the same type of usage. With light to moderate use, the Note 2 got me through a weekend of camping with no charger in sight, that's with browsing the web, checking email, doing some work related stuff, streaming a few Youtube videos for my daughters. I would never attempt that with any other phone. Impossible with the Nexus or DNA. The Note 2's battery life is simply unbelievable. What's even better than the Note 2's amazing battery life? The ability to carry MORE if needed, since it's removable! The Nexus 4 battery blows! I'm at 60 percent just browsing the web on that thing for 45 minutes, hopefully with the next few updates Google will find a way to make the battery last longer.
Storage:
1. Note 2
2. DNA/Nexus 4
Again, No contest.
I had a 64GB Sandisk from my GS3, popped it into my Note 2 and now I have 80GB of combined storage. It's perfect for putting in literally my whole movie collection and mp3 songs on the go. My daughters could browse through the movie collection and find the ones they want to watch anywhere to keep them quiet, no need to plan ahead and only put in only 1 or 2 choices due to storage limitations. I could carry along more SD cards as I wish, basically limitless storage capacity is priceless to have.
After having owned and used all 3, I returned the DNA pronto.
There is absolutely no device that has satisfied me in all areas like the Note 2, it's basically the Swiss army knife of phones. It's a no contest comparing the DNA or Nexus 4 to the Note 2. They don't stand a chance. This is the ONE and ONLY device that has ever stopped my urge and yearning to try something different because I know there is no other phone out there that can measure up to it. Literally and figuratively.
I wouldn't put the fragile Nexus 4 at the top of build quality when the glass cracks easily. There's even been reports that temperature change (it being warn in your hand and then sat on a counter top) cracks it. Plastic is better build quality because it's built to last.
Thanks.. Well written comparison between the three phones and i think it's fair for the most part.
Highly biased towards the note 2 but that's your opinion
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using xda premium
Unless the DNA overheats or I use chrome, I don't see low framerate. I got it to overheat and used chrome at the same time today.
Wasn't pretty.
I wish people would stop calling low framerate lag. Lag is not even a relevant term.
LOL This sounded like a "Gather around kids, let me tell you about these phones, I had all 3!" "ooohhhhhhh aaaahhhhh"
Seriously though I have to agree with the OP on Touchwiz. I have a Note 10.1 tablet and I had a Galaxy SIII. I traded my S III to my sister for her upgrade so I could get the Note 2 on Verizon when it came out. Got tired of waiting and got the DNA. The DNA is a great phone, don't get me wrong, but after playing around with the S III and the Note 10.1 I found Sense to be just . . . boring. The whole 1080p thing really gets boring quick and I was just left with a skin that doesn't do all that much.
Today a friend was showing me that she bought the S III I recommended her to buy and I was showing her all these little things I liked and I kept having to say "no, my new one doesn't do that... but look at the screen!".
I carry 2 phones with me at all times. My Serious "work" phone (Verizon) because I need a phone that will work wherever I travel and my "Just for fun" phone (T-Mobile prepaid).
There is a lot I do like about the DNA, call quality is great, display really is amazing, I love the looks of it and it just feels reliable. So I made the decision that I'm going to keep the DNA on Verizon and instead I'm going to replace my Galaxy Nexus on T-Mobile with the Note 2. I think it makes sense, Verizon is my Reliable line and I think the DNA will be the most reliable PHONE, T-Mobile is my for fun line so I think the Note 2 will be the most fun phablet for it.
That's a whole bunch of hardware to carry around lol.
It really is an addiction LOL, I carry a manbag (IT'S NOT A PURSE!) with my Galaxy Note 10.1 and my Nexus 7 and my Bluetooth keyboard and a bunch of cables and a portable hard drive and chargers and then I carry my 2 phones around and I don't do **** with any of it. It's always a "Just in case" thing. It's that Ti and Ne kicking in.
People always slagged off Touchwiz but I tried Android on a phone in store in 2010 and I hated it, I then decided to go for the iPhone 4. When it came to the GS2 launching I had gotten so fed up of how restrictive IOS is that I sold my iPhone 4 and got the GS2 last year. It was so much better than the Android I used before and I messed around with lots of roms after people saying how stock is much better and I hated it, stock just lacked so many features that TouchWiz had. I also thought the apps Samsung had on the phone all just worked, where the stock apps felt rather dated. Then using the Note 2 in store I just the added functionality of the pen, especially being able to quickly write numbers down while on the phone without having to go through menus. PiP and the multiple windows open is just something I so badly want now and I loved how Samsung have improved TouchWiz so much since the GS2.
I would buy the Note 2 if the specs were more impressive, however the Mali 400 is a real let down, it struggled a bit on the GS2 and it would be even worse on the Note 2.
Though I've tried The Nexus 4 at work as my mate has one and I still think stock Android is **** compared to Touchwiz.
I truly appreciate this, thank you very much! I agree with everything you said as well (as far as the DNA and N2 go, I haven't used the N4). You've made the decision to return the DNA in for the Note 2 that much easier!
DNA has no screen stuttering when navigating the launcher or any of the apps... there will be some moments when its loaded up with apps that ive been using where it might have a very slight stutter but it usually corrects itself ... I personally love sense compared to anything else... the rest of my family all got GS III's and i hate touchwiz so much... the entire UI stutters from opening apps navigating screens and settings.. haven't played with a note II yet so i cant really go into detail with that...
Don't know what your whole family did to their S3's but I'm pretty sure I'm not alone in saying the S3 is quite smooth. Of course its not nexus 4 quick though
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
I had the note2 on T-Mobile for two weeks and now the DNA for one week. They are both great phones! Personally I don't care for sense or touchwiz, but then again that's why we are all here....you can get your android os anyway you like. I settled on the DNA because, I have always used HTC, even pre android, and think that they have the finest build quality in the android world. Also the note2 felt just slightly to big.
I think it really comes down to those little personal preferences when dealing with these power house phones! You won't be sorry with any of these.
I really wanted to like the S3, but nothing about it was 'woah' for me. It didn't look that good, and I didn't mind waiting to see what else was around the corner. So I got the DNA, and I'm blown away. I really don't care about comparing Touchwiz vs. Sense vs. Pure Android, because regardless of what skin I have, I'm going to either find an AOSP ROM or I'll be uninstalling all the bloat ware and using a different launcher.
The S3 is a good phone, and I would recommend it, but I love my DNA a lot more. The screen isn't a novelty for me really, its just beautiful and not Pentile.
The note2, I feel like that's not considered on the same category. I've never gotten to play with one, but if we are looking at $200 on contract, DNA is the way to go and not go to up for the Note2.
Pretty insightful, especially since I'm deciding between the DNA and Note 2. I haven't tested either phone in the store yet, but I plan on doing that soon. Swaying to the DNA because of the awesome design (IMHO) and the screen. Note 2 is looking good because of the removable battery and expandable storage. 6+GB of music will fill the DNA FAST since I can't really use cloud storage (NYC subway has no service). I have only 2 problems with the Note 2 from all the videos I've seen: 1. That sore thumb of a logo on the home button 2. Doesn't seem like the S-Pen works with AOSP roms like CM/AOKP/PA, based on what I've seen with the Note. Sort of a problem since I'm sure the S-Pen is a considerable amount of the final cost of the phone.
How clear would you say the screen on the Note 2 is? I've really only experienced the screen on my GNexus and a few of the first Galaxy S phones. I actually love my Nexus's screen, but at 5.5", I can't think of it being as nice.
Talked to a friend of mine who has tested both. He feels the Note 2 is no faster than the DNA even at lower resolution.
.torrented said:
DNA has no screen stuttering when navigating the launcher or any of the apps... there will be some moments when its loaded up with apps that ive been using where it might have a very slight stutter but it usually corrects itself ... I personally love sense compared to anything else... the rest of my family all got GS III's and i hate touchwiz so much... the entire UI stutters from opening apps navigating screens and settings.. haven't played with a note II yet so i cant really go into detail with that...
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I agree here 100% I hated...HATED! Sense on my thunderbolt but this is a whole new sense.. I'd almost venture to say I prefer this newest sense to stock android... Just my input on that
This is very good thread, not biased at all to be honest. I was in love with the DNA display for the first few days, and guess what it wore off, lol. Now I can't tell a difference between 1080p and 720p lol. I now tell people hey you won't be able to tell after 2 days, lol.
I am about to go tomorrow to check out the note 2 and see if the narrow design fits my hands. I might switch it out but I am not going in with the mindset to pick one up, I however will be ready to exchange it if I am impressed. I am really tired of sense I like other launchers and for some reason they don't seem to run as fast on the 1080p screen.
Sense is so unproductive it looks nice but seriously why the hell do I have to go in to settings to change a wallpaper, the long press on home screen just lets you add widgets, so stupid. HTC seems to have made it worse.
I love the DNA but if I am as impressed by the note 2 I might exchange it out tomorrow.
---------- Post added at 06:11 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:05 AM ----------
adrynalyne said:
Talked to a friend of mine who has tested both. He feels the Note 2 is no faster than the DNA even at lower resolution.
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Click to collapse
Trust me unless your friend was a robot he wouldn't know. They are both fast phones, if someone says they can see the difference when they use it, they are most likely lying, lol.
I could be wrong but regarding battery category,
Is your Notes 2 using TMobile's network ? since Verizon's Note 2 is only available tomorrow, I guess the Notes 2 you own is GSM version.
Verizon's DNA is running on LTE.
So I would give it some kudos for running on LTE doing the heavy usage you had for 4-5 hours with 2020 mAH battery, (note 2 has a 1.5 bigger battery inside.)
Thanks for the review - and thanks for trying out phones that you know you are going to return. Helps everyone out when our carrier has to handle RMAs for people that want to try phones just to review them.
*sighs*
-D
Usually the weeks after the launch of a phone especially one that was so anticipated the boards are absolutely full of user feedback.
It feels strangely dead here.
I held back on a purchase just to hear what people were thinking - particularly about the standard Mate 10 but there's very little happening.
Even on Google there is very little information on the Mate 10 (a lot on the pro) and very little user follow-up/long term reviews.
It's slightly un-nerving.
So ARE people buying this phone (the pro at least because of the availability)? Are you liking it? What's the experience been like? What DON'T you like......
kolembo said:
Usually the weeks after the launch of a phone especially one that was so anticipated the boards are absolutely full of user feedback.
It feels strangely dead here.
I held back on a purchase just to hear what people were thinking - particularly about the standard Mate 10 but there's very little happening.
Even on Google there is very little information on the Mate 10 (a lot on the pro) and very little user follow-up/long term reviews.
It's slightly un-nerving.
So ARE people buying this phone (the pro at least because of the availability)? Are you liking it? What's the experience been like? What DON'T you like......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pros
Battery life. Good speed. I have to stress the battery life. The best I've ever had on a phone. EVER. Over 7 hrs SOT. Easily lasts 2 days.
Cons
WiFi is unacceptable. I constantly have to switch to 4g.
Camera for me is not good enough.
A little buggy at times. Couple of random reboots, one or two other minor weird stuff.
I brought this phone whilst my HTC u11+ gets repaired. I thought I may stick with the Huawei, however due to the cons I think I'll go back to the HTC u11+ (a better overall phone for me)
Hope that helps
I've only had the Mate 10 for about a week, and it's growing on me. As posted above, the battery life is SUPERB. 7+ hours of SOT, close to 2 days standby. Fast charging (which requires Huawei's proprietary charger and a 5 amp type C cable) is also amazing. As is the speed and accuracy of the front fingerprint reader (and it's great that it can be tapped, long-tapped and swiped).
I think the screen, camera and speed are all excellent and, having originally thought about returning it (I was coming from a Note 4), I think it's now a keeper, although, like the OP, I'm surprised at how quiet the community has been.
Some cons: I hate the volume buttons placement, on the right side just above power. It's a pain since I like to use them for reading and cursor control, and I'm used to doing that with my thumb on the left side. I also am disappointed that there's not TWRP yet, as I'm used to GMD Gesture Control and Titanium, although I'm finding relatively decent substitutes.
Other pros: 3.0 type C charger, great sound, IR blaster, SD Card, dual-sim, comes with a usable case (the phone is otherwise slippery).
I purchased the regular Mate 10, AL00 rebranded to L29, so it has 6 gigs of ram/128 gigs of storage. I believe I'm having some buyers remorse. It's just not a big enough upgrade from the Mate 9. As a matter of fact, I still often pick up and play around with my Mate 9. I've only had the 10 for about 4 days and am debating on selling it, probably at a $100/$150 loss.
Two aspects I was excited for, the updated screen and offscreen button, both have issues for me. The screen isn't nearly as bright as the Mate 9 which makes it look a little duller, but is much sharper. There is also an adaptive brightness issue which causes certain screens and apps to dim and cannot be toggled off. The fingerprint sensor is still super fast but using it as the offscreen buttons can be problematic for those with larger fingers. It's so small and very close to the app drawer button, provided you use one as I do.
The added thickness is also quite noticeable to me. Despite being taller and wider, the Mate 9 seems more comfortable in my hands.
rogerinnyc said:
Some cons: I hate the volume buttons placement, on the right side just above power.
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Click to collapse
My s7 edge has the buttons on the different side, and my P10 plus has it on the same side but with a different texture on the power button instead. I have the Mate 10 pro since it's availability, but I sometimes still push the wrong button. It is not a deal breaker, just something to note.
i might consider checking it out if you are selling.
Sammae7 said:
I purchased the regular Mate 10, AL00 rebranded to L29, so it has 6 gigs of ram/128 gigs of storage. I believe I'm having some buyers remorse. It's just not a big enough upgrade from the Mate 9. As a matter of fact, I still often pick up and play around with my Mate 9. I've only had the 10 for about 4 days and am debating on selling it, probably at a $100/$150 loss.
Two aspects I was excited for, the updated screen and offscreen button, both have issues for me. The screen isn't nearly as bright as the Mate 9 which makes it look a little duller, but is much sharper. There is also an adaptive brightness issue which causes certain screens and apps to dim and cannot be toggled off. The fingerprint sensor is still super fast but using it as the offscreen buttons can be problematic for those with larger fingers. It's so small and very close to the app drawer button, provided you use one as I do.
The added thickness is also quite noticeable to me. Despite being taller and wider, the Mate 9 seems more comfortable in my hands.
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Click to collapse
daz_2000 said:
Pros
Battery life. Good speed. I have to stress the battery life. The best I've ever had on a phone. EVER. Over 7 hrs SOT. Easily lasts 2 days.
Cons
WiFi is unacceptable. I constantly have to switch to 4g.
Camera for me is not good enough.
A little buggy at times. Couple of random reboots, one or two other minor weird stuff.
I brought this phone whilst my HTC u11+ gets repaired. I thought I may stick with the Huawei, however due to the cons I think I'll go back to the HTC u11+ (a better overall phone for me)
Hope that helps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're having WiFi issues as well as some random bugs? I haven't heard much of this anywhere so I am curious now. What is wrong with the WiFi? And random reboots? Have you factory reset? What model/version do you have / are you running and did you rebrand?
I have the Mate 10 and since its officially available where i live, the price in Asia and Middle East is a pretty strong point (620$ for 4gb/64gb) and even better i got my hands on a Mate 10 that was only couple days used for 500$. So there is no regrets for me at all considering the excellent pricing for a flagship phone. Moreover i have been using a P9 plus which is almost 2 years old. So the Mate 10 is a proper upgrade for me.
Initially i was breaking my head over whether to buy the Mate 10 or Mate 10 pro (was it worth 200$ more?). It was a debate between big 16:9 screen, QHD, front fp (really important for me), cheaper price versus an oled screen with a 5.5inch gotten taller 18:9 ratio, narrow better in hand feel, blue color, 2 day battery life. Coming from a 5.5 inch oled display phone, i was expecting Mate 10 pro to be the right choice. But after getting the Mate 10 i have to say i don't really feel that urge to get the Mate 10 pro anymore. So i am now in a stage where i just wait and if i come across a good deal for Mate 10 pro i might give it a try.
Initial hands on the phone felt wide to hold but soon after usage of the phone the muscle memory or whatever kicks in and you get used to it. I have used the Huawei TPU case for a while but couple days ago realized again how much thickness it adds to the phone and the real phone without the case feels far slimmer and the edge to edge bezels shows its real self. So i will be getting myself a pouch case to protect the phone in pocket while able to use the phone without any case in real usage rather than miss out such an important part of the phone, the built quality.
The display as mentioned elsewhere i have gotten spoilt by the QHD and big screen. The narrow and tall 18:9 FHD+ just does not woo me anymore. Deeper black of Oled is compensated by the purer white of the IPS. And i don't have a note 8 near me to compare and complain, so in stand alone usage and compared to what phone i was using all along, the display is a great upgrade for me. And yes the battery life would be better with an oled but for my personal usage i go to bed with enough battery to watch a dozen youtube videos and still have at least 30% battery left, and charge the phone back in 30 minutes of shower in the morning. So i have nothing to complain personally.
I am not a camera guy so can't say much other than that it is a huge upgrade from my existing Leica of P9 plus. From all the reviews online, its camera is clearly in flagship territory. And i guess there is a personal preference that comes in that makes people to prefer one among Pixel 2 series, Iphone X, Note 8 and Mate 10 series camera.
I have been using Huawei phones for a while so have a natural inclination to Huawei over other brands. LG & Samsung is a no no for me. One plus feels like a wannabe. Pixel 2 is overpriced outside USA. Personally not inclined to HTC. I was close to getting the Essential phone for being such a compact and minimal bezel phone. But the availability outside US and camera performance kept me away.
The only con is that Huawei did not bring much changes to the UI, whereas they used to have significant UI upgrade with every year. This year they brought out the Oreo and added few Oreo features, and cleaned up the settings and then called it EMUI 8. So not much visible changes to the UI experience and there are still places on the UI where they have to do a lot more refining and staying ahead.
daz_2000 said:
Pros
Battery life. Good speed. I have to stress the battery life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, thanks. Yeah the phone suddenly seems lost between the OnePlus 5t, the U11+, the LaV30, the Google, the Apple and the i phone!
Not to mention now, it's very own Honor V10.
The uptake, looking at the boards seems to have been tempered somewhat by....I don't know... The camera? The lack of ear-phone jack? The screen resolution?
I can't put my finger on it but the Mate9 was far more successful in drumming up a critical mass of users here on XDA.
I think Huawei's Mate release this year may have been a little muddled and I get the feeling that the Mate core user actually wants the 10 standard and not the pro and that they can't find it?
The competition is really deep this year.... I'll keep watching the boards but it's like.....brrrrrr.... So far.
Got a Mate Pro. Absolutely love it.
I got a Pixel 2XL at the same time and I really can't decide which one to use. Got the Pixel as my private phone and Huawei as my work phone.
The Pixel camera is as good as the reviews say, but the Mate's is as good if you ask me. It certainly is more flexible and had many more options.
Battery life is excellent as mentioned by others.
The screen is fine and plenty bright enough. I honestly can't see any circumstances where I'd want it to be brighter than Mac can take it.
HDR for YouTube can be enabled.
No issues with WiFi here.
As for slow uptake, a quick search of the internet shows that the Mate at least is breaking sales records for Huawei.
Sammae7 said:
I purchased the regular Mate 10, AL00 rebranded to L29, so it has 6 gigs of ram/128 gigs of storage. I believe I'm having some buyers remorse.
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply.
Yes, this is the feeling I'm getting looking around the internet, particularly on the screen brightness AND this funny adaptive thing one seems not to be able to control.
I think, particularly with the move from Mate 9 to the 10, with the technology seemingly plateaued for 2017, that perhaps they didn't go far enough in redesign?
The anticipation for the phone is not being matched by the number of people buying. Clearly the fact that it is only the pro being made easily available in the West has something to do with it - because Mate 9 users and Mate 9 pro users are different profiles.
Where the Mate 9 managed to carve out a nice for itself apart from the regular contenders, the pro sat right in the middle of it's competitors, and this year, is overtaken by the screen.
It's fascinating I think - also, what does it mean for discussion on the standard Mate 10? When you go to Google, almost all the results returned concern the Mate 10 pro....and it is being experienced completely outside of the impact that the Mate 9 had.
Anyway, thanks, I'm in Kenya and so both phones have just been released and are available now.
I have this niggling suspicion that the P11 & P11 Plus will have to pull something special out of the box to change the situation.
Also..... The Honor V10 then feels like it's in direct competition - apart from it's screen. It's all very strange indeed.
buckshot4 said:
You're having WiFi issues as well as some random bugs? I haven't heard much of this anywhere so I am curious now. What is wrong with the WiFi? And random reboots? Have you factory reset? What model/version do you have / are you running and did you rebrand?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The WiFi is very slow particularly when I am a little further away from my router. Note. This was not the case for any other phone. E.g. Samsung s8 and HTC u11+. I even did a side by side test and Huawei failed miserably. I am now at a point where I pretty much have to leave WiFi off as do not want to wait for pages to load. I have had 3 random reboots in 7 days.
I have not done a factory reset. And not rooted rebranded etc. I brought from carphone warehouse UK.
Huaweis been really bad with release
Still not available in Australia
virtyx said:
Huaweis been really bad with release
Still not available in Australia
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you sure ? I see Huawei website has provided links to Australian stores and you get a 360 camera free as well.
http://consumer.huawei.com/au/
warea said:
Are you sure ? I see Huawei website has provided links to Australian stores and you get a 360 camera free as well.
http://consumer.huawei.com/au/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only one store has it contract unfortunately
daz_2000 said:
Pros
Battery life. Good speed. I have to stress the battery life. The best I've ever had on a phone. EVER. Over 7 hrs SOT. Easily lasts 2 days.
Cons
WiFi is unacceptable. I constantly have to switch to 4g.
Camera for me is not good enough.
A little buggy at times. Couple of random reboots, one or two other minor weird stuff.
I brought this phone whilst my HTC u11+ gets repaired. I thought I may stick with the Huawei, however due to the cons I think I'll go back to the HTC u11+ (a better overall phone for me)
Hope that helps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am undecided between U11+ and mate10.
why repaired u11+ after 2 weeks?
u11+ better camera,auto hdr for photos ,audio and new 18:9 but HTC sense has less feature.
mate 10 Emui has a lot features but no auto hdr for photos, and 16:9
I dropped the HTC and the camera would not load. Other than that I loved it. Screen could be better as LCD. But still very good. I will be going back to HTC over Huawei.
Got mine yesterday sold my iPhone x to get this and love it, mainly bought for projection mode with no need for a dock like the S8 really find this useful.
Would be happier with Google Services.
Sammae7 said:
I purchased the regular Mate 10, AL00 rebranded to L29, so it has 6 gigs of ram/128 gigs of storage. I believe I'm having some buyers remorse. It's just not a big enough upgrade from the Mate 9. As a matter of fact, I still often pick up and play around with my Mate 9. I've only had the 10 for about 4 days and am debating on selling it, probably at a $100/$150 loss.
Two aspects I was excited for, the updated screen and offscreen button, both have issues for me. The screen isn't nearly as bright as the Mate 9 which makes it look a little duller, but is much sharper. There is also an adaptive brightness issue which causes certain screens and apps to dim and cannot be toggled off. The fingerprint sensor is still super fast but using it as the offscreen buttons can be problematic for those with larger fingers. It's so small and very close to the app drawer button, provided you use one as I do.
The added thickness is also quite noticeable to me. Despite being taller and wider, the Mate 9 seems more comfortable in my hands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got my Mate 10 three weeks ago. In the first week, I was not happy with the phone because it can not get google services in full operation. Google cannot even get the phone number lift out of this phone. However now I am quite impressed by the features from this phone that others mentioned, battery, fast fingerprint. I am particularly happy with camera, screen and buttons. My previous phone was Samsung GS7 Edge.
Now, I will be much happier if I can get Google services work on this phone. Without phone number association to the phone, cannot use find a phone, track a phone, and other administrative features of the phone from google.
I assume your re-branding it to L29 would resolve this issue. I actually tried to use DC-unlocker as well as FH Mate 10 tool. I don't have bootloader code that i could not pass either of the tools. Would you please share your way of re-branding and give me some suggestions?
thank you/
chris
[email protected] said:
I got my Mate 10 three weeks ago. In the first week, I was not happy with the phone because it can not get google services in full operation. Google cannot even get the phone number lift out of this phone. However now I am quite impressed by the features from this phone that others mentioned, battery, fast fingerprint. I am particularly happy with camera, screen and buttons. My previous phone was Samsung GS7 Edge.
Now, I will be much happier if I can get Google services work on this phone. Without phone number association to the phone, cannot use find a phone, track a phone, and other administrative features of the phone from google.
I assume your re-branding it to L29 would resolve this issue. I actually tried to use DC-unlocker as well as FH Mate 10 tool. I don't have bootloader code that i could not pass either of the tools. Would you please share your way of re-branding and give me some suggestions?
thank you/
chris
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check out the FunkyHuawei thread on this forum. That seems to be the best way to rebrand your device to L29 (or any version for that matter), though you do have to pay to do that. But if it is the difference between having google services and not having google services, I would definitely suggest looking into it!
I stopped by ATT Store yesterday to get an "In Hand" experience with the new NOTE 10. I thought I would share my thoughts and see if anyone else has played around with the new note 10 or 10 plus to get their input and thoughts about which phone they intend to buy.
My First Impression when looking at the New Note 10 Plus is that it is without question, the most beautiful PHone and Screen I have ever seen. Virtually no bezels on the screen and a very small "chin" - it gives it a very impressive look. It is literally ALL Screen - and the OLED Panel is absolutely beautiful.
Picking up the Note 10 Plus, I was surprised by a couple of things -
Extremely Thin - much thinner than my S10 Plus.
Very Comfortable to Hold - and despite the 6.8 inch screen, it doesn't seem that much larger in overall size than my S10 Plus. That really surprised me. I was afraid the phone would be too large to hold - too big to use comfortably - but that was not the case at all. It felt great in the hand and was very easy to use. I could do many things one handed very comfortably.
Holding my S10 Plus back to back with the New NOTE 10 Plus, the size difference is minimal - surprisingly less than you would think considering how much larger the screen is -
The Camera was awesome - though I honestly didn't have time to really see all that it does. Some of the new features will be fun to mess around with - and the quality is clearly there - another incredible camera. I am really looking forward to the new video editing ap I saw online somewhere - using the SPen for video editing - can't wait -
The S Pen felt good in the hand - nice and easy to use and hold - but I didn't try any of the new features - I will wait until I get my new Note before I play around with those features -
All in all am thoroughly impressed and can't wait to get my Note 10 Plus. I think Samsung has put together a very impressive phone. The 23rd, can't come soon in enough.
Have you had a chance to play around with a new Note 10 at ATT or Best Buy ? Your Thoughts?
Geekser said:
I stopped by ATT Store yesterday to get an "In Hand" experience with the new NOTE 10. I thought I would share my thoughts and see if anyone else has played around with the new note 10 or 10 plus to get their input and thoughts about which phone they intend to buy.
My First Impression when looking at the New Note 10 Plus is that it is without question, the most beautiful PHone and Screen I have ever seen. Virtually no bezels on the screen and a very small "chin" - it gives it a very impressive look. It is literally ALL Screen - and the OLED Panel is absolutely beautiful.
Picking up the Note 10 Plus, I was surprised by a couple of things -
Extremely Thin - much thinner than my S10 Plus.
Very Comfortable to Hold - and despite the 6.8 inch screen, it doesn't seem that much larger in overall size than my S10 Plus. That really surprised me. I was afraid the phone would be too large to hold - too big to use comfortably - but that was not the case at all. It felt great in the hand and was very easy to use. I could do many things one handed very comfortably.
Holding my S10 Plus back to back with the New NOTE 10 Plus, the size difference is minimal - surprisingly less than you would think considering how much larger the screen is -
The Camera was awesome - though I honestly didn't have time to really see all that it does. Some of the new features will be fun to mess around with - and the quality is clearly there - another incredible camera. I am really looking forward to the new video editing ap I saw online somewhere - using the SPen for video editing - can't wait -
The S Pen felt good in the hand - nice and easy to use and hold - but I didn't try any of the new features - I will wait until I get my new Note before I play around with those features -
All in all am thoroughly impressed and can't wait to get my Note 10 Plus. I think Samsung has put together a very impressive phone. The 23rd, can't come soon in enough.
Have you had a chance to play around with a new Note 10 at ATT or Best Buy ? Your Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How was the balance. In hand did it want to tilt?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
jackdforme said:
How was the balance. In hand did it want to tilt?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I didn't get that sense at all. I had the note 9 prior to getting the S10 Plus and frankly, it felt similar to both the S10Plus and the NOte 9 - the biggest difference is the slimness of the phone is noticible - feels much thinner than both phones, but still solid and firm. Honestly, I was impressed. I expected it to feel too large and I didn't get that at all.
Interesting feedback thanks. I checked the specs, and the S10+ is just as thin as the Note 10+. Must be the bezel giving the illusion of being thinner.
gavinfabl said:
Interesting feedback thanks. I checked the specs, and the S10+ is just as thin as the Note 10+. Must be the bezel giving the illusion of being thinner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Isn't that weird? It absolutely felt thinner - LOL - thinner or not - it is an amazing phone and I can't wait for it to be released.
What i was most impressed by was how much lighter the 10 plus is than my note 9, you can absolutely tell having one in each hand even if the difference is only a few grams in reality.
I checked out the new Note at the Microsoft store and my Note 9 felt like a honking big phone compared to the Note 10 (which is what I ordered). Though, I will be using a case so that will add some heft again. The screen looked incredibly crisp and beautiful. I wish I played around with it a bit more. I messed around with the camera, looking at the zoom and wide angle. I really can't wait to see how much more of an improvement it is. I love the Note 9 camera though the low light use was a bit middle of the road. Maybe will go there tomorrow on my lunch again, but next Friday cannot come soon enough!!!
Best Buy has both the N10 and the N10+ on display. I pre-ordered the N10+ for the higher resolution screen, MicroSD slot, and the depth seaning camera.
I compared it to my Note 9, and they are basically the same size phone, but the N10+ is all screen. Can't comment on weight or balance since it was tethered to the display.
What surprised me was how much I liked the smaller N10. It's so much smaller than my Note 9, but the screen is the same exact size. Well, I think a hair smaller, 6.3 vs 6.4, but you can't tell even side by side.
As much as I love huge screens, if Sammy had not of gimped the smaller N10, I would be seriously tempted to get it instead. And may end up buying one later anyway.
Bigger screen than the 9, smaller in-hand, what's not to like?
Yes, yes, it's possible to love a phone. Heck, you sleep next to it, don't you? Rate this thread to indicate your love for the OnePlus 8 Pro, all things considered. A higher rating indicates that the OnePlus 8 Pro is an incredible phone that you enjoy tremendously. You love it.
Then, drop a comment if you have anything to add!
I was owner almost all of flagsip phones
I have never fell so somooth working phone
props:
1. very good battery about 7h SoT
2.buttery smooth
3.max britness, clarity of screen
4.fingerprint scanner accurate
5.main sensor and focus
6.WARP charge
7.quick 30W non cable charge
cons:
1.curved edges
2.speaker phones
3.call quality could be better
4.green tint in black areas (could be fix in software update)
5. lack of always on display (could be in future software update)
assume:
really good phone , better than my beloved pixel 4XL
oooh yeah!
https://9to5google.com/2020/05/01/o...yOPmX1onKi3QFGscuyKzufM0qIjBlUqJdEeG3QLj_hGNc
Finally got my dbrand skins through and my fit bag so got it all together ,had the same combination on my one plus 6t but that had just a Matt black skin,went for swarm this time and it looks great.Works for me fit bag for when in pocket ,skin and no SP when out of the pocket
Some more photos
Ok, here is my thoughts so far coming from a Note 10 Plus.
I must say I miss the wideness of the note in my hand, this phone is the same length wise but about a quarter inch thinner. It doesn't feel as comfortable in my hand. I don't care for the two button shutdown, would prefer the right button was just that, a power button. Going to have to retrain my brain for right side power again.
They have put a manual three position switch just above the power button for sound/vibrate/silent. Seems unnecessary to me and I don't see myself using it much. Just as easy to use the pull down menu.
I live in Florida and had the phone overheat outdoors yesterday. That is not a good thing. First phone I have ever had that happen to for regular outdoor use. Might be a deal breaker.
I find the phone snappy and played a number of hours of COD mobile last night at highest settings and the phone handled it with ease. No complaints there, plenty of power.
Wireless android auto works! Yes!
Going to take a while to get used to the new OS settings menus but so far pretty straight forward. I use Nova Launcher so not alot different in reality.
Charging is quick, battery life is on par with Note.
I find the display more vibrant and clearer than the note. I have it maxed and this may be costing me a lot of battery, time will tell.
I found the packaging lacking in spiffs like headphones and extras like transfer dongles etc. For the price it should include somethings of this nature.
Cases are few and far between, seems they were caught with their pants down with a design change.
Dual sim IS NOT WORKING. Upsetting because that is the primary reason I bought it.
You are going to go through growing pains with Verizon. You can use the chat function and just tell them to "engage CDMA-less provisioning" and they will get it sorted.
Overall I would give it a 7 out of 10. That may change if the heat issue is addressed and dual sim.
The manual switch for volume is very handy for social environments where using the phone is bad manners. You can check if your phone is silent without taking it out of your pocket, and silence it In your pocket.
It s a feature i will miss if i move away from oneplus someday.
jackler1 said:
Ok, here is my thoughts so far coming from a Note 10 Plus.
I must say I miss the wideness of the note in my hand, this phone is the same length wise but about a quarter inch thinner. It doesn't feel as comfortable in my hand. I don't care for the two button shutdown, would prefer the right button was just that, a power button. Going to have to retrain my brain for right side power again.
They have put a manual three position switch just above the power button for sound/vibrate/silent. Seems unnecessary to me and I don't see myself using it much. Just as easy to use the pull down menu.
I live in Florida and had the phone overheat outdoors yesterday. That is not a good thing. First phone I have ever had that happen to for regular outdoor use. Might be a deal breaker.
I find the phone snappy and played a number of hours of COD mobile last night at highest settings and the phone handled it with ease. No complaints there, plenty of power.
Wireless android auto works! Yes!
Going to take a while to get used to the new OS settings menus but so far pretty straight forward. I use Nova Launcher so not alot different in reality.
Charging is quick, battery life is on par with Note.
I find the display more vibrant and clearer than the note. I have it maxed and this may be costing me a lot of battery, time will tell.
I found the packaging lacking in spiffs like headphones and extras like transfer dongles etc. For the price it should include somethings of this nature.
Cases are few and far between, seems they were caught with their pants down with a design change.
Dual sim IS NOT WORKING. Upsetting because that is the primary reason I bought it.
You are going to go through growing pains with Verizon. You can use the chat function and just tell them to "engage CDMA-less provisioning" and they will get it sorted.
Overall I would give it a 7 out of 10. That may change if the heat issue is addressed and dual sim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why did you switch from the note 10 plus? You don't need the spen?
I need dual sim....
Well, I got Oneplus 8 pro finally.
Only two days, but so far so good - I like the speed and haven't seen any significant problems.
Hello everyone,
So this is my second day with my one plus 8 pro, had my eye on this company since their first release one plus one, but for me, it was all about the quality and the build, i just switched from my Huawei p20 pro ( i was close to getting the 40 pro but because of google problem I changed my mind and also for their slow updates and the bootloader lock ) so what I like about one plus 8 pro , Display, sound, fingerprint, scanner accuracy, wifi speed, customization, and fast operation, it is really a fast phone
I miss lots of things about my p20 pro
Build quality, camera, notification light, solid phone network connection, the weather app, the split-screen, the hidden app function.
I am still using it and hope one day i fall in love with one plus 8 pro as I did with Huawei.
semsem1969 said:
Hello everyone,
So this is my second day with my one plus 8 pro, had my eye on this company since their first release one plus one, but for me, it was all about the quality and the build, i just switched from my Huawei p20 pro ( i was close to getting the 40 pro but because of google problem I changed my mind and also for their slow updates and the bootloader lock ) so what I like about one plus 8 pro , Display, sound, fingerprint, scanner accuracy, wifi speed, customization, and fast operation, it is really a fast phone
I miss lots of things about my p20 pro
Build quality, camera, notification light, solid phone network connection, the weather app, the split-screen, the hidden app function.
I am still using it and hope one day i fall in love with one plus 8 pro as I did with Huawei.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a hidden app function in the oneplus 8 pro (just place two fingers on a blank area of the screen and stretch out). Plenty of weather apps on the Play Store although, if you're particular about what weather app to use (there are good and bad ones) you could try TodayWeather which I've recently installed and has more or less replaced my old app (DarkSky) for functionality and presentation.
themadman1001 said:
There's a hidden app function in the oneplus 8 pro (just place two fingers on a blank area of the screen and stretch out). Plenty of weather apps on the Play Store although, if you're particular about what weather app to use (there are good and bad ones) you could try TodayWeather which I've recently installed and has more or less replaced my old app (DarkSky) for functionality and presentation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, the apps were the easy part, now I am having an issue with poor wifi reception, overheating and sluggish performance something with the memory, the gallery will not open smoothly
Reset the phone or clear cache didn't fix it
I am honestly thinking it was a big mistake buying this phone..
hope they can fix their issues soon
Best device ever.
end of story.
semsem1969 said:
Thank you, the apps were the easy part, now I am having an issue with poor wifi reception, overheating and sluggish performance something with the memory, the gallery will not open smoothly
Reset the phone or clear cache didn't fix it
I am honestly thinking it was a big mistake buying this phone..
hope they can fix their issues soon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hows your experience on the phone.
xnostra said:
hows your experience on the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest, If they fix all the issues like overheating, power drain, wifi, and data connection it will be a great phone.
I love the display, speed, sound and the camera ( it takes good pictures)
I am waiting for software updates and hope they will be fixed soon if not, it will be for sale on eBay.
Honestly other than the better camera and wireless charging I prefer the OP7 Pro/7t Pro.
arsenal74 said:
Honestly other than the better camera and wireless charging I prefer the OP7 Pro/7t Pro.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why?
1 - The slightly wider aspect ratio. (Think we need to move away from the diagonal to categorise screen size but that is a whole other conversation)
2 - No cut out
3 - No screen burn-in issues
4 - No green tint/black crush issues
5 - GCAM really improves the 7 pro camera and does not seem to do the same for 8 pro, therefore a 7 pro with gcam is pretty close at least on the main lens
6 - Prefer the blue to the green
Yes the 8 Pro is better overall for sure but right now the 7 pro is almost half the price so when you factor in cost too I think I prefer the 7 pro. To qualify, I have owned an 8 pro and then re-purchased a 7 pro.
XDA_RealLifeReview said:
Yes, yes, it's possible to love a phone. Heck, you sleep next to it, don't you? Rate this thread to indicate your love for the OnePlus 8 Pro, all things considered. A higher rating indicates that the OnePlus 8 Pro is an incredible phone that you enjoy tremendously. You love it.
Then, drop a comment if you have anything to add!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey. I agree this is a cool gadget. she used it for a long time and was very pleased
Hello members. Is been pass for when Google Pixel 7/7 Pro was released. New phones come out new hype, impressions. This is like every year but interesting to see how people reacts and what think. I'm maybe to old for this but for last few years I keep devices for longer time. Before Google 7 Pro, I used Note 20 Ultra. I was happy with it. But I prefer clean Android and Google features, this is why I switched to Pixel (I'll not switch and I'm not interested for longer time now). So I have questions for you. Who switched to Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra from Pixel 7/7 Pro or oposite from S23 Ultra to Pixel 7 Pro think. Or switched from diferent device, brand phone.
My Pixel 7 Pro has some sort of motherboard or power issue that keeps frying screens. I am on my second Pixel 7 Pro screen replacement and the third is starting to show similar pulsing of brightness and flickering symptoms. I have an S23 Ultra on order for pick up on Friday at my local Best Buy and I can't wait.
I also can't wait to have a modem that's actually worth a damn and more than 24 hours of battery life when I don't use my phone heavily.
I changed my pixel 7 pro for the ultra and I got it yesterday. The pixel 7 pro is a good phone for regular use with a great camera, it's snappy and very fluid and some decent performance while gaming. Battery wasn't that solid. I used it for the past three months since it came out. Since receiving my ultra S23 i can say just WOW. This device is a beast. Camera zoom is incredible even tho the colors are saturated that can be fixed after with may photo app, even Googles own photo app with just auto fix can do the trick. Battery wise it's a tank and the feel of the device is heavy compared to the pixel 7 pro but feel and solid. Software wise is like pixel os or stock android on steroids i really like the widget stacking and other minor things. From the time I got till today I can say that so far it's a Greta super snappy very good camera dm battery beast device. Definitely an upgrade from the pixel 7 pro. Once you change most things to Google like keyboard and all the other things you won't really miss the other device. I would rate it a 9.5/10 and the pixel 7 pro 8/10
Just a quick screen shot of the battery life with just one cycle. That's with one hour of video call, toms of video and web browser, VPN and not battery optimization just plain stock.
I own Pixel 7 Pro. Now waiting for my S23 Ultra to arrived on 24th February.
Am not switching tho. I gonna retire my Aquos R6.
Plan to use my S23 Ultra in stock configuration, locked bootloader, no root. I just gonna debloat using Brevent, blocking ads using private DNS, and managing permissions & net acess using AppOps & Netguard. I still hate Samsung for all features that got nerfed/disabled once you unlock your bootloader. But then, nowadays, it's hard to find brand who release decent phone with 1TB configuration (Apple OS sucks, Xperia price isn't worth it's features & specs. There's Nubia, but it lean heavily towards gamer's need while i prefer a better camera)
So, Pixel 7 Pro for all the mods. And S23 Ultra for Banking (zero headache without root) & Multimedia center.
A bit off topic but I switched from the P6P Google to the S23 U. I say wow about performance Camera and overall the S Pen and so on. Yes the switch was a good choice for me
EtherealRemnant said:
My Pixel 7 Pro has some sort of motherboard or power issue that keeps frying screens. I am on my second Pixel 7 Pro screen replacement and the third is starting to show similar pulsing of brightness and flickering symptoms. I have an S23 Ultra on order for pick up on Friday at my local Best Buy and I can't wait.
I also can't wait to have a modem that's actually worth a damn and more than 24 hours of battery life when I don't use my phone heavily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. Just dropped my P7P off at ubreakifix for same issue. they told me they have been seeing lots of this. also happened to order an S23U right after. I will still keep the P7P for my daily though, assuming it stays functioning.
Not really switching as I'm doing like others here have mentioned. I have a green S23 Ultra due to arrive sometime early this week (whenever UPS updates the "label created" status. Should be a fun phone.
Nothing wrong with my Pixel 7 Pro. Probably the one of these least problematic phones I've owned and ranks up there with the Pixel 2xl and the Nexus 5 as my fav Google phones.
Anyhow, I'm using the P7P to have fun with Android 14 DP and betas. Will swap back and forth between it and the S23 Ultra until I swap the P7P for the Pixel Fold or P8P.
Though the Ultra will be the primary, nothing was wrong with the Pixel 7 Pro. I just like have the latest and greatest.
uicnren said:
Interesting. Just dropped my P7P off at ubreakifix for same issue. they told me they have been seeing lots of this. also happened to order an S23U right after. I will still keep the P7P for my daily though, assuming it stays functioning.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's gotta be a motherboard or power delivery issue that's shorting the display and slowly killing it because I baby my phones and yet I'm not too sure my screen is going to last until Friday and I just got it like 2 weeks ago. They replaced my first one with a second one and it started acting up two days later. Replaced that one and it's lasted a few weeks but uhh... how many replacements am I going to have to get? Google doesn't have a lemon policy where they say they'll replace the device after so many fails at repairing it but uBreakiFix is going to object for sure because the second screen they replaced was with their own warranty for the repair, not Google footing the bill, as they assumed they just gave me a bad screen and it took me two days to notice.
If you check this thread, you and I are far from alone.
Well that's fun... My screen is defective
Started noticing the other night that when I was on certain sites that I would get streaks down the screen. They moved with the text on the screen and it was worse with white backgrounds. Now when my screen goes on or off, the edges flash green...
forum.xda-developers.com
EtherealRemnant said:
It's gotta be a motherboard or power delivery issue that's shorting the display and slowly killing it because I baby my phones and yet I'm not too sure my screen is going to last until Friday and I just got it like 2 weeks ago. They replaced my first one with a second one and it started acting up two days later. Replaced that one and it's lasted a few weeks but uhh... how many replacements am I going to have to get? Google doesn't have a lemon policy where they say they'll replace the device after so many fails at repairing it but uBreakiFix is going to object for sure because the second screen they replaced was with their own warranty for the repair, not Google footing the bill, as they assumed they just gave me a bad screen and it took me two days to notice.
If you check this thread, you and I are far from alone.
Well that's fun... My screen is defective
Started noticing the other night that when I was on certain sites that I would get streaks down the screen. They moved with the text on the screen and it was worse with white backgrounds. Now when my screen goes on or off, the edges flash green...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well he did say he was seeing it a lot. I kind of doubted him, but not so sure now. Im not in a large metro area and pixels arent very popular so if its in large numbers its pretty bad. I went rounds with them trying to get the to just replace the phone as they had done for me in the past, though to be honest I have rarely had any problem, but they were having none of it this time. mine was acting up, lasted about a week when I first noticed and contacted google, then yesterday it went kaput, and took it in. They didnt have a screen, but should be done by tuesday. well see how long it lasts I guess.
EtherealRemnant said:
It's gotta be a motherboard or power delivery issue that's shorting the display and slowly killing it because I baby my phones and yet I'm not too sure my screen is going to last until Friday and I just got it like 2 weeks ago. They replaced my first one with a second one and it started acting up two days later. Replaced that one and it's lasted a few weeks but uhh... how many replacements am I going to have to get? Google doesn't have a lemon policy where they say they'll replace the device after so many fails at repairing it but uBreakiFix is going to object for sure because the second screen they replaced was with their own warranty for the repair, not Google footing the bill, as they assumed they just gave me a bad screen and it took me two days to notice.
If you check this thread, you and I are far from alone.
Well that's fun... My screen is defective
Started noticing the other night that when I was on certain sites that I would get streaks down the screen. They moved with the text on the screen and it was worse with white backgrounds. Now when my screen goes on or off, the edges flash green...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably the displays. Since implementation of variable refresh rate displays the failure rate seems to have escalated across the board.
Maybe badly coded firmware blowing out drivers in your case. Maybe a design or manufacturing flaw or a hot spot in the phone burning out the drivers. Google should owe up to it instead of whistling through their graveyard.
This is one of the reasons I didn't upgrade from the N10+. I also leave the firmware alone as it runs flawlessly as is. Well over 8k hours on this display, still perfect.
Lots of issues with the Samsung variable refresh rate displays on all their latter flagship models. Also a fair amount of display issues on their early fixed rate AMOLEDs. Whether they are user, hardware, firmware or induced by a combination of factors is unknown. As is the mean display lifetimes of various models. Display roulette
It should also be noted that OLEDs and AMOLEDs displays are completely incompatible with water. How well the OLEDs are or aren't encapsulated effects their lifespan and failure rate. Keep phones away from water and avoid water exposure regardless of the ip rating. High G loading from impacts or direct impacts can damage them; always use a good case. Battery swelling from a failure is another way they can be damaged. Overheating from direct sunlight exposure.
blackhawk said:
Probably the displays. Since implementation of variable refresh rate displays the failure rate seems to have escalated across the board.
Maybe badly coded firmware blowing out drivers in your case. Maybe a design or manufacturing flaw or a hot spot in the phone burning out the drivers. Google should owe up to it instead of whistling through their graveyard.
This is one of the reasons I didn't upgrade from the N10+. I also leave the firmware alone as it runs flawlessly as is. Well over 8k hours on this display, still perfect.
Lots of issues with the Samsung variable refresh rate displays on all their latter flagship models. Also a fair amount of display issues on their early fixed rate AMOLEDs. Whether they are user, hardware, firmware or induced by a combination of factors is unknown. As is the mean display lifetimes of various models. Display roulette
It should also be noted that OLEDs and AMOLEDs displays are completely incompatible with water. How well the OLEDs are or aren't encapsulated effects their lifespan and failure rate. Keep phones away from water and avoid water exposure regardless of the ip rating. High G loading from impacts or direct impacts can damage them; always use a good case. Battery swelling from a failure is another way they can be damaged. Overheating from direct sunlight exposure.
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I've had no issues with any other OLED panel going all the way back to my S-AMOLED Samsung Captivate (first generation Galaxy S for AT&T). That means... Captivate, S3, S4, Note5, iPhone 12 Pro Max, Pixel 3 XL, OnePlus 9... Probably missing one or two in there. I turn off variable refresh because it annoys me so that theoretically should make my display less prone to failure but here we are. I mean the Pixel came out in October... Those other devices were kept a year give or take (12 Pro Max was two years old before I traded it for the Pixel 7 Pro).
I've never even had OLED burn in because I don't use auto brightness, I manually adjust. I take pretty good care of my phones.
EtherealRemnant said:
I've had no issues with any other OLED panel going all the way back to my S-AMOLED Samsung Captivate (first generation Galaxy S for AT&T). That means... Captivate, S3, S4, Note5, iPhone 12 Pro Max, Pixel 3 XL, OnePlus 9... Probably missing one or two in there. I turn off variable refresh because it annoys me so that theoretically should make my display less prone to failure but here we are. I mean the Pixel came out in October... Those other devices were kept a year give or take (12 Pro Max was two years old before I traded it for the Pixel 7 Pro).
I've never even had OLED burn in because I don't use auto brightness, I manually adjust. I take pretty good care of my phones.
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OP seems to have a good display track record. iPhones I don't really track at all. I track Samsung's now as a matter of morbid curiosity as their flagships continue disappoint me. The N9 was ok but under powered. Samsung has always been hit or miss. Expandable storage would at least show up after being skipped for one generation. I always blew off models without it for the last 7 years... that will not change. As far as tech support Samsung's is poor. A true pain to deal with.
I have 2 N10+'S, my first AMOLED displays, zero issues. I always use manual brightness control and rarely go beyond 50% and then measured in seconds rather then minutes. Always use dark mode as well with no status bar icons.
Some user's insist on running brightness at or near 100% even indoors. Some don't use cases or use ones with inadequate protection.
What could go wrong?
I love Samsung S22/23 Ultra design. By far most beautiful phone design. But I'd say Google Pixel 7/7 Pro is so damn beautiful and original. Something different from other devices. If you put on the desk with iPhone, Samsung it will looks amazing. I'm happy with Google Pixel 7 Pro and it just works. Yes some will say performance isn't good as Samsung, iPhone or other. I don't care about it, but I really enjoy Pixel features. Samsung has best spam call blocking (Hiya), but Screen call is so well done I use most every time if unknown number calling. Did anyone looked how much system takes of storage out of the box. Interesting 65Gb. It is too much. Google use about 16Gb. Not the best but 4 times less. After all I'm too old for switching devices every year or more then once per year. So I'll use Pixel 7 Pro two or three years.
blackhawk said:
OP seems to have a good display track record.
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They don't actually. Every single one of their devices going back to at least the 8 Pro has numerous reports of green lines in the screen *and* OnePlus claiming it was dropped and refusing to fix it despite no other obvious damage to the device.
blackhawk said:
Samsung has always been hit or miss
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The S23U looks way more hit than anything to come before it in many years. I'm genuinely excited to get this phone.
blackhawk said:
Expandable storage
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This is never coming back to flagships. I guess you're stuck with your Note for the foreseeable future.
blackhawk said:
Some user's insist on running brightness at or near 100% even indoors.
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I use mine around 10-30% most of the time. I don't abuse my displays.
EtherealRemnant said:
They don't actually. Every single one of their devices going back to at least the 8 Pro has numerous reports of green lines in the screen *and* OnePlus claiming it was dropped and refusing to fix it despite no other obvious damage to the device.
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I was only following more recent OP models. Not too intently though...
EtherealRemnant said:
The S23U looks way more hit than anything to come before it in many years. I'm genuinely excited to get this phone.
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A slight upgrade over the S22U. Same clunky, heavy design with plenty of room for expandable storage. Samsung has failed to bring any real innovation for years now, just adding teasers.
They did considerably clean up the S23U chassis internally though. Much cleaner, too bad it's offset by other poor design choices.
EtherealRemnant said:
This is never coming back to flagships. I guess you're stuck with your Note for the foreseeable future.
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That's what Google wants. However eventually if they don't rock it, somebody will. Samsung's flagship phones sales are suffering. Alienating their flagship power users isn't helping their cause.
My expected service life for my N10+'s is 3+ more years. No sweat as they continue to fullfill their mission and save me time and money. My 4G data plan is grandfathered and with 5G being used more now my bandwidth has increased. Cheap, battery friendly and more than enough bandwidth.
The N10+ is just a better balanced phone with a better form factor and display/bezel ratios than any of its successors. It has a better matched performance to available heat sink ratio and the same, often better battery life while weighing 30gms less. Samsung has failed to make their newer flagships effectively more efficient and just keeps slamming in bigger batteries to compensate. Unfortunately the heat sinking area/capacity hasn't increase to keep up with the higher thermal loads. Google Android has damaged functionality and efficiency with its scoped storage... no such thing on Android 9 and 10. By using the N10+'s I avoid the more undesirable Android versions simply by not upgrading/updating. Security simply isn't an issue in actual usage.
Such is the curse of Samsung's ineptness. As a pragmatist I didn't hesitate in exploiting this opportunity by buying a second new discounted N10+... and denting Samsung's pride futher. A stone cold pleasure. It may not be a good plan for some users but it serves me well. If I had to buy a flagship today it still be a new N10+ snap running on Q. Path of least resistance/maximum reward.
I have both. S23 Ultra is great, but Pixel 7 Pro is my daily driver. Photos are amazing.
Not happy that the firmware for the Ultra is over 10 GBs now to flash files. Compared with Googles 2 GB Files.
So I have pixel 7 pro and was thing to switch to U23 ultra, I was leave Samsung 7 years ago when was last note 4 so is little long time.
Right now not sur ei still have mixed feelings.
Pixel has smaller screen zoom about 10%-15% smaller also letter is well.
That big screen and waste it with bigger letters and icons.
Also I can't change samsung pass to Google password manager.
Display on pixel on my eyes looks more luxury then Samsung. But that is just my feeling.
Yes few thing what is issue on pixel there on U23U is work fabulous.
Big plus is battery pixel 7 pro I got around 8h+ on display U23U looks come around 12h+ that I'm impressed.
Also I love it quick setting widgets in pixel and looks without root is not possible to install on Samsung.
So yes also I love design S23U normal corner not kurve to much and spen Thst amazing plus.
So in my case not sure yet if will replace pixel 7 pro or not. All have pro and cons
I switched but I'm a little torn. I love all the little things the Pixel does right. The call screening, voice recognition, lack of bloat....but I needy screen mirroring, texts on my motorcycle (that the pixel never got right) and superior multitasking. I must say the battery life is on another level too but I was fine with it on the pixel. The cameras were fine too.
I switched from 7 Pro because this phone doesn't work in most of the World. In country I stay the most, it didn't have 5G, VoLTE and VoWiFi.