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When the X1 was first announced, I was all over it. Then the Touch Pro with TF3D was announced, and I thought... the X1 is too 'raw' compared to the 'slick' Touch Pro, so Touch Pro for me!
Then I tried the FUZE (AT&T's Touch Pro) and I was disappointed in a few areas where I was not expecting to be disappointed (details below).
So, as it stands today, I am leaning back toward the X1 over the FUZE (TP). But it's a close call, and I'm still undecided. Here’s why:
1. Xperia hardware looks like a device that I would be proud to be paired with. In other words, just like Apple, Sony understands that a gadget can also be a fashion accessory. That’s a 2-fer in terms of value-add.
2. I have found the FUZE to be too heavy and bricky to be really pocket-friendly. This was a major disappointment when I checked it out at AT&T last week! I was all ready to buy the FUZE when I realized that it would take a serious adjustment to have that kind of weight and thickness in my pocket. It remains to be seen how I feel about the X1’s weight and thickness (since it's not released yet in the States). But, in terms of the specs published, the X1 looks to be about .5oz lighter than the FUZE. NOTE: The FUZE for some odd reason seems to be .5oz heavier than the Sprint Touch Pro and the HTC Touch Pro. No idea why.
3. The X1 has more hard buttons on the front panel, and more easily pressed hard buttons on the front panel. I have heard serious complaints about the “up” arrow on the X1 d-pad, but I will have to see for myself if that is insurmountable. I have played with FUZE, and the front panel buttons are not confidence-inspiring. I feel like it’s a negotiation with each press of the dpad.
4. The absence of the g-sensor on the X1 is stunning, and quite disappointing. What a huge bummer. What the heck was Sony thinking? G-sensors = cool + fun. Xperia = cool+fun. What am I missing?
5. The FUZE is about $175 w/plan on AT&T, and the X1 will be around $700 retail in a few weeks (with coupons, etc.). Yikes, that’s not a marginal difference in price, is it? I’m not sure I can justify a 4x price difference for a phone that is about 1.5x as good. Or, can I? Well, it’s like buying clothing: I can spend $200 on a shirt or $10 on a shirt. They both cover my torso about as effectively, but which one do I want people to see me paired with? This goes back to the gadget-as-accessory frame.
6. Panels. I figured they would be a dead platform as soon as 09, but the new facebook panel could be a game-changer. It shows how Panels could be the equiv to iPhone apps! Will panels have market mojo? What incentives are Sony peddling for developers to get on board? What kind of penetration can panels have if limited to only 1 device? Very chicken/egg situation here, and kind of a risk for X1 owners if they are relying on panels to breathe life into WM6.1.
7. TouchFlo 3D on X1. If this really ends up being portable to the X1 with 100% functionality and no bugs, then the X1 ends up being the more flexible device of the two. But 100% compatibility seems to be a ways off still, for many good reasons. Conversely, it is highly unlikely for several reasons that the TP would ever get panels. Sure, they might be portable over to the TouchPro HD, but that’s not the TP/FUZE, is it?
8. Keyboards. I’ve read some horrific reviews of the X1 keyboard, but they’ve been scattered and not consistent. So, I guess I’ll have to wait to actually try one myself to see how bad it really is. I tested out the FUZE keyboard, and I know it gets rave reviews, but coming from my HTC S710/Vox, I found the lack of space between the keys troubling. I’m sure I’d get used to it, but it seems like the X1’s layout (with spaces between keys) is more like my S710’s layout, which I find quite comfortable to type on. I am quite concerned about the lack of tactile feedback on the X1 keyboard, though. If there’s no feedback, then what’s the point of a hardware keyboard? Again, reviews have not been satisfactory around this aspect of the X1, so I’ll have to wait to see for myself.
9. Touchiness. I found the FUZE to be fiddly with touch sensitivity. Too often, a swipe was interpreted as a select, which was quite annoying. I've read that the X1 has a better touch experience, but that will be something I'll have to xperience myself, I guess.
10. Screen rotation. OK, big minus for X1 to have no G-sensor, but big plus for X1 for its apparent "instant switch" technology between landscape and portrait modes! I've seen some videos and it's quite impressive in Opera. One of the reasons why I 'dread' to go to my slide-out keyboard on my S710 is due to the lag. It's just painful to wait. If there were no "wait tax" on using the slide-out keyboard, I might go to it more readily.
11. Dpad+ features. The FUZE has the circular zoom thang, and the X1 has the glidey thing. No idea which is preferable. Both are interesting in their own way.
So, this is where I am right now re: X1 v. FUZE. To be honest, I am kind of looking for excuses to cheap out and get the FUZE just so I'm not spending $700 on a friggin phone. But the thickness and weight are things that I'd have to adjust to.
Does anyone have any thoughts/comments/additions to this analysis?
Jon
[cross-posted on Xperia X1 and Raphael forums so I can get both viewpoints]
I too was stuck between the X1 and Touch Pro. But I think the X1 hideous. The specs are pretty much the same but you lose the G sensor and only gain .2in of screen. But the 3in screen is narrower then the TP so it looks smaller when your looking at the phone the in one hand. But they keyboard is what really killed it for me :-(.
I just returned my Xperia and should have my Fuze from Amazon tomorrow. I loved everything about Xperia except the buttons below the screen. I just couldn't accept that quality on a $700 phone. I got Fuze only as a short-term toy as it cost me only $100 after $25 rebate from Amazon. I plan to sell it as soon as I see something more impressive. Maybe N97, or an Android phone. Whatever it is, it should have 3G on AT&T as I am stuck with AT&T for 2-years.
My experience with Xperia in 2-weeks:
Tried all kinds of customizations from XDA including TF3D, spPanel skins, Youtube, XperiaTweeks, etc. In the end, I discovered Xperia out the box with just the following customizations makes it a beast of a phone if the front buttons don't bother you as much as they bothered me.
1. XperiaTweaks has to be the best. It lets you customize some little annoying things with Xperia like increasing font size, sorting contacts by FirstNames, default panel on startup
2. Blackstone Keyboard
3. Youtube installed as a panel
4. Facebook Panel
I was totally impressed by TouchFlow3D as a panel as it has a WOW factor to it. But, each day I found myself going back to the Sony Ericsson Panel that I customized with weather, e-mails, RSS feeds, calendar, etc. Eventually, I made that as the default panel to start by Xperia using XperiaTweaks. Eventually, I un-installed the TF3D's as the Landscape fix program I installed for TF3D seems to be causing problems with my phone when I slideout the keyboard.
Some issues (some minor) I had with Xperia.
1. I could not reconnect to the Bluetooth of my GPS unit in my car if I stepped away for a short time with my phone. This didn't happen with my W910 phone. To get the Bluetooth work I had to restart my Xperia and even the GPS unit all the time.
2. Build quality of the buttons below the screen.
3. Sometimes I found myself sliding out the keyboard as I was holding the bottom part of phone hard.
4. Hard to select menu's with finger. Ended up getting used to D-pad.
5. The Picture ID on my W910 shows a picture that covers almost half the screen and I can easily see while on Xperia the picture is about the size of a penny and is almost useless. The call logs also show the names so tiny and is almost impossible to go through the call logs while driving.
I would go for the Touch Pro
The best phones I have ever had were Sony Ericssons (T637, P910a) and I too lusted after an Xperia but...
1. SE is dying or dead already
2. SE and HTC are, reportedly, parting ways
3. There isn't and won't be enough units running the panels interface to make it attractive for developers to bring apps
So, if you spend the $ on the Xperia, you'll be sitting on the sidelines, watching windows mobile for VGA developers aping the cool apps coming for the iPhone and wishing that more than just a small percentage would work on your SE.
Just my $0.02.
TouchPro vs. X1
I too was lusting after the SE X1 after it was announced (about a year ago) and said "that is my next phone".
I read website after website with videos, reviews/previews, etc.. and I couldn't have been more excited for "my phone" to be released here in the states.
Well....it came time for a decision a few months ago and the X1 still wasn't widely available in the states so I waited....and waited. Delay after delay from SE and the comparisons for the TouchPro and X1 were starting to trickle out and they weren't looking good for the X1. Yeah, the panel interface was amazing if utilized proficiently but the interface was laggy. The phone was expensive and the keyboard was terrible.
I was coming from a Hermes (8525) so I was fairly pleased with my existing keyboard and once I saw the Sprint version of the TP I was hooked. The keyboard is brilliant. For someone who emails/txt dozens of times/day the new TPO keyboard is a HUGE time saver. Long gone are the days of softkey input for special commonly used characters "@", "(", ")", etc.. This just made for a more streamlined user experience. The X1 is restricted by having only four rows of keys. The same as my Hermes.
Yeah, the X1 has the panels and that gorgeous screen (and it is beautiful!) but with the exact same internals I see no real world benefit in owning one.
Just my opinion.
JC
I'll offer my insight point by point as I feel qualified to respond...
JonDeutsch said:
2. I have found the FUZE to be too heavy and bricky to be really pocket-friendly. This was a major disappointment when I checked it out at AT&T last week! I was all ready to buy the FUZE when I realized that it would take a serious adjustment to have that kind of weight and thickness in my pocket. It remains to be seen how I feel about the X1’s weight and thickness (since it's not released yet in the States). But, in terms of the specs published, the X1 looks to be about .5oz lighter than the FUZE. NOTE: The FUZE for some odd reason seems to be .5oz heavier than the Sprint Touch Pro and the HTC Touch Pro. No idea why.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FUZE size is a bit awkward at first...I switched to it from an iPhone, but after about 3 days it was only natural. In a way, I always liked a bit larger / heavier phone because you know its there. Every smaller / skinnier phone i've had (compared to the fuze or 8125) I often felt naked with even when it was in pocket.
JonDeutsch said:
3. The X1 has more hard buttons on the front panel, and more easily pressed hard buttons on the front panel. I have heard serious complaints about the “up” arrow on the X1 d-pad, but I will have to see for myself if that is insurmountable. I have played with FUZE, and the front panel buttons are not confidence-inspiring. I feel like it’s a negotiation with each press of the dpad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fuze dpad is very awkward at first...but it becomes second nature in no time flat - i have no problem navigating in the dark at this point.
JonDeutsch said:
4. The absence of the g-sensor on the X1 is stunning, and quite disappointing. What a huge bummer. What the heck was Sony thinking? G-sensors = cool + fun. Xperia = cool+fun. What am I missing?
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Click to collapse
bummer that its missing - but at the same time, theres no real item that the fuze is taking advantage of it with so far. beyond the wow factor of labyrinth for about 5 minutes....
JonDeutsch said:
5. The FUZE is about $175 w/plan on AT&T, and the X1 will be around $700 retail in a few weeks (with coupons, etc.).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
damn thats expensive...
JonDeutsch said:
8. Keyboards. I’ve read some horrific reviews of the X1 keyboard, but they’ve been scattered and not consistent. So, I guess I’ll have to wait to actually try one myself to see how bad it really is. I tested out the FUZE keyboard, and I know it gets rave reviews, but coming from my HTC S710/Vox, I found the lack of space between the keys troubling. I’m sure I’d get used to it, but it seems like the X1’s layout (with spaces between keys) is more like my S710’s layout, which I find quite comfortable to type on. I am quite concerned about the lack of tactile feedback on the X1 keyboard, though. If there’s no feedback, then what’s the point of a hardware keyboard? Again, reviews have not been satisfactory around this aspect of the X1, so I’ll have to wait to see for myself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The keyboard feels cramped at first, but you adjust in a very short amount of time....again, several days and you wont think twice of it...probably? lol
JonDeutsch said:
9. Touchiness. I found the FUZE to be fiddly with touch sensitivity. Too often, a swipe was interpreted as a select, which was quite annoying. I've read that the X1 has a better touch experience, but that will be something I'll have to xperience myself, I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the same problem with the stock rom...however, with tf3dconfig tweaks (or registry edits directly should you so choose) it responds MUCH nicer and I no longer run into these problems. There may also be a small degree of "self training" on this one.
JonDeutsch said:
11. Dpad+ features. The FUZE has the circular zoom thang, and the X1 has the glidey thing. No idea which is preferable. Both are interesting in their own way.
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Click to collapse
circle zoom is no iphone multitouch, but it works pretty damn well with opera in my experiences. Also nice for text size in messages etc.
I think from your feelings, you may be best off getting the fuze and using it for a while, and maybe picking up a used X1 down the line. That said, ive never even got to hold an X1...but i have trouble imagining its worth 2-4x the price of the fuze. But...if its really a fashion / toy thing to you - you could very well feel differently.
While some may argue you should have no initial complaints with a device - and that may be true, but it isnt the reality today with 99% of phones for 99% of people - its sort of expected you have some gripes with some aspects. That said, most of your feelings seem spot on with things that I initially pandered about but soon adjusted to. I was just happy to have service in my living and travelling area again (goddam iphone...)
I also think kitsVA, dgduris, and jcotterman all hit very VERY valid points on the software side of thigns, so I will not bother getting into that.
good luck in whatever your decision may be!
I went through this dilemma too. I calculated that I would save around $200 if I went for a used TP rather than a used xperia. With $150-200, you could get an unlimited data plan for a year, or buy a working GPS, etc. etc.
The touch pro isn't bad if you don't wear tight pants. I have a wallet which is much larger in dimension than my TP! I come from a very thin razr I once fit in my pocket and the change didn't both me.
Good luck with your choice!
either tomorrow..or sometime before sunday..
So that'll be the tilt, a fuze and now the omnia, for verizon wireless, im leaving At&t.
so yea..anyone have any suggestions? or recommendations?
Late,
Jstar
Good move. I've been a huge fan of HTC for years but their latest devices are just not good multi-media devices at all.
Both the Diamond and Touch pro video playback suck with every piece of software I've tried.
The Omnia on the other hand...WOW !
Awesome video playback, screen size is perfect, cool touch/mouse pad above all else...TV-out.
Can't believe I wasted so much money on a Touch Pro (damn thing can't even play a low bit rate 640x480 mp4 smoothly).
blah!
looks like its going to be over the weekend..worked another late night tonight
either way thats what i was thinking force..the video driver for the price i paid for my FUZE, should have been on point..BUT still im getting some increment lag..and that is no bueno!
so needless to say..i shall be on the hunt over the next few days for a new ROM, if any some themes..and some other goodies for the Omnia.
Late,
Jstar
Have a read up over at the omnia modaco forums and also samsung-omnia.org
Lots of usefull info there plus tips and tweaks.
I gave my tpro to my daughter at UNC-CH, (and the guys all go crazy over it). I'm using an omnia on ATT, even though it's only on edge, no problem so far. I really like the extra stretch of the screen, even tho it's wqvga (my eyes don't see that big of a difference). The tv-out is a biggie for me. I use it a lot now for presentations. I could be wrong, but it seems the new stuff coming out don't have tv-out??
I can't see what the big deal is about VGA because the screens on both the Diamond and Touch pro are too small to see any real difference, even when compared with a QVGA device of the same size.
I done a demo (inc. high bit rate video) for a bunch of friends with the Diamond and Touch Dual (I love this qvga device) and they all loved the Dual.
As for WQVGA, the larger Omnia screen blows the latest HTC devices away and yes, the eyes don't see any less just because it's not VGA.
Playing Virtual Pool Mobile on a big screen plasma or LCD kicks ass.
Surfing the web on a big screen TV and using the Omnia as a mouse is just awesome too.
So come on HTC, sort out your video drivers and get on top of the game again.
forcedv said:
I can't see what the big deal is about VGA because the screens on both the Diamond and Touch pro are too small to see any real difference, even when compared with a QVGA device of the same size.
I done a demo (inc. high bit rate video) for a bunch of friends with the Diamond and Touch Dual (I love this qvga device) and they all loved the Dual.
As for WQVGA, the larger Omnia screen blows the latest HTC devices away and yes, the eyes don't see any less just because it's not VGA.
Playing Virtual Pool Mobile on a big screen plasma or LCD kicks ass.
Surfing the web on a big screen TV and using the Omnia as a mouse is just awesome too.
So come on HTC, sort out your video drivers and get on top of the game again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
see..its posts like this that make purchases much easier!
thanks alot for the feedback.
and as far as modaco.com, as u mentioned petest i just signed up and mann...the porting they got going on over there for the omnia is SICK! im really gonna dig this device!
thanks to all!
Late,
Jstar
The other thing that bugs me about my touch Pro is it's weight and depth.
It's like 2 Diamonds sandwiched together.
With todays technology, the qwerty keyboard should be a lot slimmer.
And finally, with such a fat device, why no built in memory ?
Don't tell me they didn't have space.
The Diamond had 4GB but the Touch Pro has non !!!!!
The Omnia has 8 or 16GB built in (depending on the version you buy) and a micro SD slot for expansion.
I love HTC but they are being left behind by others now.
IMHO, please hold the Sony Xperia X1 before deciding.
You'll have a very different oppinion after testing this device, it's amazing.
Not that the Omnia is a bad phone, no way, but the Xperia is far away in RAM, screen resolution, build quality etc.
Take a chance on it and hold it in your hand, turn it on and play a little with the keyboard, feel the metal chassis... you'll fall in love
gtrab said:
IMHO, please hold the Sony Xperia X1 before deciding.
You'll have a very different oppinion after testing this device, it's amazing.
Not that the Omnia is a bad phone, no way, but the Xperia is far away in RAM, screen resolution, build quality etc.
Take a chance on it and hold it in your hand, turn it on and play a little with the keyboard, feel the metal chassis... you'll fall in love
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i can dig that..
but uhhh where can i get my paws on it?
i have yet to see it in any store. id love to give it a whirl
Late,
Jstar
gtrab said:
IMHO, please hold the Sony Xperia X1 before deciding.
You'll have a very different oppinion after testing this device, it's amazing.
Not that the Omnia is a bad phone, no way, but the Xperia is far away in RAM, screen resolution, build quality etc.
Take a chance on it and hold it in your hand, turn it on and play a little with the keyboard, feel the metal chassis... you'll fall in love
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah... But no TV-out
What do you think?
There aren't much changes compare to the HTC Touch Pro... It's a real turn off for me. I don't even feel like I want to change phone.
- Different Design (I prefer the diamond back cover)
- The Tilt is back (YAY!).
- Bigger Screen, 3.6" instead of 2.8", and it's thinner
- It's Heavier than the HTC Touch Pro
- Processor "Qualcomm® MSM7200A™, 528 MHz" Instead of "Qualcomm® MSM7201A™, 528 MHz" (Same Speed thou)
- Memory and RAM are the same (Disappointed)
- Faster Download Speed, Europe/Asia: 900/2100 MHz (no America yet, but I'm sure they will come up with something)
- Camera is the same (so disappointed)
I was so eager to change phone from the Tilt to Touch Pro, but not to this phone... Except for the bigger Screen. The Good new is the phone seem to be cheap. So is it time to sell my Fuze yet?
Join this Facebook group if you have nothing else to do
Youtube review
And additionnaly, there's no more D-PAD.
That's the same reason why I didn't go for the Touch HD.
I don't understand this "everything touch" trend.
I love the touchscreen, but I like being able to use the D-PAD for gaming, scrolling through list items and then "right clicking" an item, etc.
mysterd said:
And additionnaly, there's no more D-PAD.
That's the same reason why I didn't go for the Touch HD.
I don't understand this "everything touch" trend.
I love the touchscreen, but I like being able to use the D-PAD for gaming, scrolling through list items and then "right clicking" an item, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
x2.
I hate not having a D-Pad. What if I don't want to smudge up my screen? A D-pad is a must-have for me.
I replaced an iPhone and a Tilt with a Touch Pro (Fuze) and I *really* miss the larger screen of the iPhone and the ability to tilt the screen. From everything I've read, I will be buying a TP2 as soon as it's available in the US for less than a fortune. Slingplayer will look fabulous on it, I'm sure.
The "everything touch" trend is real easy to understand. iPhone. Period. If it wasn't for Apple, I'd probably have gotten a new one instead of opting for a Fuze. But since Apple insists on treating iPhone users as if they're retarded, I moved on.
I love the bigger screen design but would miss the D-pad, love the tilt (but it is another thing to break) but i dont like the lack of new features (camera the same, same processor speed, same ram, same memory???) seems like they are tryin to pull a iPhone 3G on us... same phone minor improvements
How well do you suppose the camera will function? Do you think we will be able to learn anything from the Touch Pro 2 camera code/functionality that will help us improve the original Touch Pro camera?
pandaboyy said:
- Camera is the same (so disappointed)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
camera is not exactly the same as it wont have a flash, even more disappointing.
the tilting screen is a great thing, as i really miss the tilting screen of the tilt (kaiser)
Not worth it for me...
For me it's simple...
SAME camera (with no 30fps video)
+ SAME processor speed
+ SAME RAM
+ NO enhanced graphics
+ NO fixed GPS lag
----------------
Waste of $$$
Even when and IF they come out with a US 3G model, my money will be staying in my wallet.
And it's stil on WM6.1, so disapointed.
I'm getting bore of my Fuze, I want to change to a new phone, but there isn't any good reason for me to do so... I'm so bored
For me, the return of the tilt screen and a large screen itself make it worth my money. The camera is nothing to me, I use a real camera anyway. What price marks are we seeing for this phone?
While I appreciate the bigger screen, I am not sure how responsive the device would be with higher resolution and same processor since we all know HTC doesn't believe in video acceleration / drivers in business phones.
TP2 is the reason my TP will live longer in my pocket, plus I am looking for other brands (AGAIN).
WHERE IS MY D-PAD!?
...and why limit it to 3.2MP when every other model has 5?
...and where is the flash!?
No thanks.
KevinACrider said:
For me, the return of the tilt screen and a large screen itself make it worth my money. The camera is nothing to me, I use a real camera anyway. What price marks are we seeing for this phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't care much about camera either, but I care a lot about the speed. However, i agreed with you for the big screen...
Anyway, to answer your question about the price, this website is selling it for $750, which I think it's reasonable for a new phone. Check before you buy, I think it only works for Europe and Asia so far.
The bigger screen and the Tilt feature are big pluses for me, but the lack of D-pad is just weird. Also, I have a strong feeling that 2009 and 2010 will reveal alot of amazing devices from other manufacturers...plus HTC might release somethign else that is better. I currently have a Fuze and I think I will just wait. I want to see how WM7 pans out. I sold my iPhone for $400 and I'm saving the money for something that really deserves it. If I still had my Tilt, I would probably upgrade to the TP2, but from a Fuze to a TP2 doesn't make much sense to me.
Well...HTC lost me on this TP2. Not this time...
I honestly like the first Touch Pro more. I don't like the roundedness...I prefer sharp angles. It looks too fat lol.
I love the new Tilt design, it looks more tilted, but I personally prefer the diamond sharp on the back of my Fuze. And the USB slot look too UGLY, it's just coming out too much. I take back what I said about the Camera, I do use the camera on my device a lot lately, mostly because of the fast upload to Facebook.
Join this Facebook group guys...
Seeing the big screen on this youtube, really make me want it now
Gimme your advice about the D-PAD problem : what do you use instead of it, for example for gaming and so on ? I mean, if you want to control some game emulator, do you use on screen buttons ? As the current devices are not multitouch (I don't want to speak about some well known IwannabeaPHONE), i don't think these are suitable for proper gaming.
Maybe the simple answer is "I don't use my device for gaming...".
What do you think ?
"Some" emulator programs allow onscreen virtual Dpads... but without multitouch, you'll be unable to simultaneously press onscreen buttons.
All games are different though. Some are simply point and click games which don't require a dpad. Others work well without a Dpad.
Most games will flat out be impossible to use.
I came from the Samsung Epix with its Optical Dpad/Mouse... to the Fuze for the Dpad. I later found that the Dpad isn't really a Dpad... but a touchscreen with optical sensors (which is why the Dpad on the fuze sucks; but at least it is a functioning dpad).
I swore my next phone will have a physical dpad and a jog wheel.
player911 said:
I swore my next phone will have a physical dpad and a jog wheel.
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Click to collapse
I'm surprised how few WM devices have a jog wheel; my last one was a FSC Loox 720 and a jog wheel was one of its major positive points back then. It hardly seems like it would be an expensive or difficult control to add, but I guess it's not free and so there's something for HTC to gain by not including one.
I also prefer the diamond back of the Touch Pro, not that the Vario IV has it anyway though (not clear why they had to change that).
I've been researching about this for a while now and the longer I think about which to get, the more confusing it is. I would like to solicit inputs from this forum regarding the pros and cons of each.
The differences between each is relatively minor, which makes it even harder to make a choice.
So far these are the significant features of each handset for me:
HTC Touch Pro
- 2.8-inch screen with VGA resolution
- Five-row QWERTY keyboard
- Has directional-pad
SE XPERIA X1
- 3.0-inch screen with WVGA resolution
- 3.5mm audio jack
- Four-row QWERTY keyboard
- Optical trackpad
HTC Touch Pro2
- 3.6-inch screen with WVGA resolution
- Five-row QWERTY keyboard
- No directional-pad
- Tilting screen (but doesn't the hinge get loose after a while?)
I was also looking at the Touch HD but it did not have a physical tactile QWERTY. I know it does have a big onscreen keyboard but I feel like I will still be longing for something with tactile response after a while.
Another question with regards to these slide-out QWERTY phones is that, does the slide mechanism stay tight for a long time? I've seen videos and these phones use spring-loaded slide-out mechanisms. Anybody ever have them go loose after some time?
Is the directional-pad really that big of a deal with Windows Mobile phones? Is it used in order to avoid taking out the stylus? I've searched around the web and see that many people are complaining about the removal of the d-pad with some models.
As for WVGA and VGA, is there a big enough difference to really go for WVGA?
I may have missed some key differences between these models. If yes, do kindly point them out. As far as I can tell, the hardware specifications of the ones I am looking for are pretty much the same (i.e. processor, RAM/ROM, 3G, GPS, WiFi, etc.)
I would buy the TouchPro2!
I have got the Kaiser (also with the tilt screen) and the tilting/sliding mechanism is out of metal and its working perfect till today after nearly 1 and a half year
On the Kaiser (320x240) I nearly never use the stylus, If I press on the screen with my finger I hit the point I wont
The D-Pad I never user more or less I like to use the wheel at the side which is much more comfortable and when I need some more buttons everything is on the full qwertz keyboard.
But I recognized I type faster with TouchPal on screenkeyboard (with suggestions) than with the hardware keyboard. The hardwarekeyboard never the less is nice for games and emulator
And of cause WVGA / VGA is a big difference 800x480/640x480
no brainer...wait for HTC Touch Pro2!
I would certainly wait for the Touch Pro2. First, it will be the newest HTC device, so it will have official support for a long time to come. Secondly, the tilting screen is very nice to have, especially if you use the device for media. As you can see from my signature, I have a Kaiser, and I love its tilting screen. And the hinge on my Kaiser has barely weakened, if at all. In addition, watch this and this, and you'll see why this phone looks so nice.
Dave
Get a x1 or wait for the pro 2. i got a x1 and its a lot better than the pro but need to wait and see on the pro 2. they have the same specs but i dont like the hindge .on the screen, think u will have problems with that after a while
scilor said:
I would buy the TouchPro2!
I have got the Kaiser (also with the tilt screen) and the tilting/sliding mechanism is out of metal and its working perfect till today after nearly 1 and a half year
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you always tilt the screen up?
scilor said:
On the Kaiser (320x240) I nearly never use the stylus, If I press on the screen with my finger I hit the point I wont
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then it would be much easier on the HTC Touch phones since they use the TouchFLO interface.
scilor said:
The D-Pad I never user more or less I like to use the wheel at the side which is much more comfortable and when I need some more buttons everything is on the full qwertz keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thing is, the Kaiser is the only one with the wheel on the side. Everything else either has a D-Pad or no D-Pad.
scilor said:
But I recognized I type faster with TouchPal on screenkeyboard (with suggestions) than with the hardware keyboard. The hardwarekeyboard never the less is nice for games and emulator
And of cause WVGA / VGA is a big difference 800x480/640x480
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I honestly am fine with using an on-screen keyboard, but not for a very long time. I've used PocketPC's before and I just seemingly long for a tactile QWERTY keyboard after a while.
DaveTheTytnIIGuy said:
Secondly, the tilting screen is very nice to have, especially if you use the device for media. As you can see from my signature, I have a Kaiser, and I love its tilting screen. And the hinge on my Kaiser has barely weakened, if at all. In addition, watch this and this, and you'll see why this phone looks so nice.
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How long have you been using your Kaiser? Do you always tilt the screen up?
Ganondolf said:
Get a x1 or wait for the pro 2. i got a x1 and its a lot better than the pro but need to wait and see on the pro 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A lot better than the HTC Touch Pro in what aspects? The QWERTY on the Touch Pro wins since it has the additional numeric row.
Can you please explain?
Ganondolf said:
they have the same specs but i dont like the hindge .on the screen, think u will have problems with that after a while
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as the hinge on the Touch Pro2 is concerned, I honestly won't be tilting it that much (I think).
X1 is the better one now and will be loads cheaper than the TP2. However, if price isn't an issue go with the TP2.
Wait for TP2!!!
I´ll go for it also!
for me, the x1 is the perfect size--I dont like my phones with big faces like the iphone
the x1 has a better screen, looks better.
the keyboard does only have 4 rows on the x1 but the keyboard itself is a lot better in looks and feel.
there is a thread somewhere in the forum (search for it). it has a poll of all the htc devices which one people prefer and the x1 is well in front so its not just me.
as far as pro 2 goes, i would have to play with a live model to give u a honest answer. cant see how people can recommend a hanset that not even out yet. although unlikely it might run like **** and be rubbish, so wait till they have live sets in a shop near u and have a play with one when its out before buying.
Another note on the HTC Touch Pro.
It's the only one with a scroll wheel. Are all the buttons on the Touch Pro non-tactile?
It depends on where you are located. If you are in the USA and not on T-Mobile, get the X1A. If you are on Tmo, wait for the TP2. I had a Touch Pro(Fuze) and while it was a nice unit, I am much happier with the Xperia here in the US on AT&T. If you are not in the USA, get the Xperia or the TP2.
Later..........
blued888 said:
I've been researching about this for a while now and the longer I think about which to get, the more confusing it is. I would like to solicit inputs from this forum regarding the pros and cons of each.
The differences between each is relatively minor, which makes it even harder to make a choice.
So far these are the significant features of each handset for me:
HTC Touch Pro
- 2.8-inch screen with VGA resolution
- Five-row QWERTY keyboard
- Has directional-pad
SE XPERIA X1
- 3.0-inch screen with WVGA resolution
- 3.5mm audio jack
- Four-row QWERTY keyboard
- Optical trackpad
HTC Touch Pro2
- 3.6-inch screen with WVGA resolution
- Five-row QWERTY keyboard
- No directional-pad
- Tilting screen (but doesn't the hinge get loose after a while?)
I was also looking at the Touch HD but it did not have a physical tactile QWERTY. I know it does have a big onscreen keyboard but I feel like I will still be longing for something with tactile response after a while.
Another question with regards to these slide-out QWERTY phones is that, does the slide mechanism stay tight for a long time? I've seen videos and these phones use spring-loaded slide-out mechanisms. Anybody ever have them go loose after some time?
Is the directional-pad really that big of a deal with Windows Mobile phones? Is it used in order to avoid taking out the stylus? I've searched around the web and see that many people are complaining about the removal of the d-pad with some models.
As for WVGA and VGA, is there a big enough difference to really go for WVGA?
I may have missed some key differences between these models. If yes, do kindly point them out. As far as I can tell, the hardware specifications of the ones I am looking for are pretty much the same (i.e. processor, RAM/ROM, 3G, GPS, WiFi, etc.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I'm gonna wait for the Touch Pro2 and see how it is when I get to demo a unit. Rumored release date here in the Philippines is sometime June 2009.
Btw, is it just me or does the XPERIA screen thinner (less width) and longer (more height) than other HTC's?
A follow-up questoin regarding WVGA screens, are most WM applications compatible with the 800x480 resolution of the newer HTC's? Or does VGA/QVGA still reign?
Thanks!
I love my Fuze (Touch Pro) but I'm versy disappointed with the tiny screen. The TP2 has a huge screen, and more importantly: Incredible features. The only thing that's really got me worried is the lack of a dpad on the portrait face.
That said, I still plan on getting one.
l3it3r said:
I love my Fuze (Touch Pro) but I'm versy disappointed with the tiny screen. The TP2 has a huge screen, and more importantly: Incredible features. The only thing that's really got me worried is the lack of a dpad on the portrait face.
That said, I still plan on getting one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what worries me also, the lack of the d-pad on the TP2.
I had the xperia and i am getting the touch pro. to me the video out is what i need and what the xperia doesn't have. Also the touch pro and the xperia will be a lot less than the touch pro 2 so that was another factor for me.
I have had an X1 for 5 months........in fact I have had five X1s.
All have had cracked cases and I have had enough.
I am changing for a HD Pro (XDA Serra on O2 UK)
I will miss the screen but the basic spec is very similar.
Very poor show Sony and many thanks to O2 for allowing an exchange.
Don't go for the Touch Pro, WVGA is the screen of the future, and all newer interfaces will likely be optimized for it. It'll become harder and harder to get non buggy ROMS for VGA screes as time goes on.
The X1 is awesome, and looks the best of the bunch, not to mention it is not bulky like the others. It still has SE support as they still get ROM updates with new features (unlike HTC which may just fix a bug or 2, but never updates the actual features).
X1 Cons: The screen is only 3.0 inches which is bigger than 2.8, but still not big. SE didn't build all of the niceties of Touch Flo devices into it such as nicer contacts screen, new volume app, etc.
The TP2 is a powerhouse, and has everything you could ever want except for the cheesy looking plastic build, and the gargantuan size.
If aesthetics are important to you go X1, if having the latest, greatest, is important go TP2.
Hey guys, don't forget if the rumors are true, we'll be getting the "omnia pro" AND the x2 sometime soon, and I think a couple more, though I can't remember what atm. There are alot of new choices with sliding KBs out there. Personally, after the fuze and now the omnia, my preference would have the following: tv-out (must), WVGA (must)(the new future), hard KB (must, preferably w/ tilt), flash for camera (want, not need), FM radio (want, not need). I miss not having a Dpad, but cope w/o it, same with the scroll wheel (ala kaiser), and stylus. Headphone jack, there are always adapters.
My trusty Kaiser was stolen by Bangkok motorbike bandits :-(
I have had a look at HTC's latest offerings & the build quality is a bit flimsy for my liking considering the price tag !
I like a keyboard so options become more limited.
I can get a Vodafone Touch Pro for sensible money, is it a worth while upgrade, worried about the graphics speed, key mapping issues plus the useless d-pad design.
Basically how much better is the touch pro to the kaiser.
Thanks,
Got the Touch Pro for Christmas and took a while to get used to it but now there is no going back
VGA is so much nicer than QVGA regards graphics text etc.
TF3D looks so lush compared to M2D.
The amount of on board storage is amazing no more having to install everything to SD.
CPU speed is a defo bonus have noticed with games i play etc.
HW Keyboard is so much better regards typing and the extra row for no's i never used to use the Kaiser keyboard now with TP always use.
I'll agree not great for key mapping but are solutions, the d-pad design takes some getting used to as smaller\flush.
All i can say is go for it you will like and to be honest for the money i think the only substantial update from Kaiser.
That's a bummer about the loss. But, get the Touch Pro which is a step up!
Thanks for the replies.
stylez said:
Got the Touch Pro for Christmas and took a while to get used to it but now there is no going back
VGA is so much nicer than QVGA regards graphics text etc.
TF3D looks so lush compared to M2D.
The amount of on board storage is amazing no more having to install everything to SD.
CPU speed is a defo bonus have noticed with games i play etc.
HW Keyboard is so much better regards typing and the extra row for no's i never used to use the Kaiser keyboard now with TP always use.
I'll agree not great for key mapping but are solutions, the d-pad design takes some getting used to as smaller\flush.
All i can say is go for it you will like and to be honest for the money i think the only substantial update from Kaiser.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What games do you play & do you have any issues due to button mapping & d-pad design ?
I played duke nukem, micropool, asphalt 3d, block breaker & chess on kaiser
I assume the build quality is very good with the touch pro, what's your opinion.
I also used my kaiser as an mp3 player, I assume from reading threads that touch pro should be better in this area.
After looking at the current creaky flimsy htc models I just can not part with serious $ for them so it looks like I'm bound for a touch pro & yet more months of tweaking & mortscript writing
Thanks for the replies
The main game playing on TP is Need For Speed and the graphics are sweet, playing Tripplix & Bejeweled too.
Build quality is good have to say i'm handling with more care as the Kaiser was a brick and could withstand anything i wouldn't put as much faith in the TP.
Has been good as an .mp3 \ video player, regards video it's defo better than Kaiser and has Radio "have to use the wired head set for signal"
You have volume control straight there on side and i have pretty much everything needed in 2-3 taps, there is software to do it just so busy making the device mine in kitchen not got around to it.
I think the main thing i like about it is the TF3D interface everything has fluid motion & 100% working landscape with TF3D 2.1, the gyrator is amazing being able to shake the device to turn off alarm in morning "using g-alarm" and just tweaky programs that use it.
Not sure what else to say? Apart from "just do it"
As a mechanical engineer I loved the Kaisers solid build & movements.
Hopefully the Touch Pro will surpise me or at least meet my satisfaction.
I have one on its way, on your head be it "Stylez" if I don't like it
Thanks.... !
Have to chuckle
You will like
Have fun when comes it may take a while to fall in love as it did me since the Kaiser is so well built but you will grow to love and then never put her down
Mmm ! I'm getting the feeling I've been mugged twice !! lol
I assume the build qualiy is pretty solid on the TP ? above average ?
Most reviews give it high ratings.
Oh well, soon be able to rate it myself
lol no you miss reading me
The Kaiser was a brick built like a tank no more modern devices could take a round from an ak47, moving onto any device will be change and a big one i had was not having a ROM to my specification to which time in the kitchen has sorted as you will know a device is more loved when made pimped to how you want.
The device is awesome
I'll let you know my opinion once I've got my hands on it & spent a little time together.
Thanks for your opinions. Helped me make the decision to go for the TP & save a fair few £'s over a new HTC model.
I think it's worth paying a little more for a Touch Pro 2. It tilts like the Kaiser, has higher resolution, and is just a better phone in my opinion. But if price is your issue, TP is fine or even getting another Kaiser is not bad. Kaiser's are dirt cheap on eBay nowadays.
I would either go with a Kaiser or jump to a TP2. The TP has a few quirks that I don't like (gets hot after a few minutes of usage) among a few other things.
Got a Touch Pro
well I went for the Touch Pro due to the fact I like the size, design & the spec should meet my needs.
I could of gone for the Touch Pro 2 but after handling one I was not willing to pay the price tag for the cheap feel of the device plus it is quite big.
The Touch Pro is a very capable device & can be had for sensible money making it a great buy.
Currently have mine running TAEL WM6.5.5 standard ROM & hours of tweaking.
I am happy with the device, slider could of been a little better !
Likes:
Great sound quality for mp3 playback (using 3.5 adaptor & SE w880 headphones)
Nice Screen
Tactile keyboard
Plenty of apps & support to resolve most users issues
build quality is good
nice sized device, not too big not too small
good amount of memory and RAM
Dislikes:
D-Pad fiddly to use
battery could do with more Mah
Keyboard Slider is not the smoothest or strongest feeling
A couple more hardware buttons would of been useful
This device is simply a good buy & can be had new for around £150
Got mine from Vodafone & was supplied unlocked.
Thanks for helping me with my quandary :-D
Glad you like
Cost the same as i paid and @ that the device is a steal.
Good choice; Indeed the D-pad sucks, especially in games like Call of duty 2 (which can be hardware-accelerated on the raphael).
You can always buy a bigger battery, though your raphael will get thicker if you do that.