SURVEY: Which hand do you use to operate your phone? - General Questions and Answers

After reading about the sony xperia ZL's camera being on the bottom right and someone commented that right hand users will have problem with it, I realized that I actually use my left hand to operate my phone mostly even though I am right-handed. I think this is interesting to know, which is why I am making this survey to get the data. These are the options:
A) I am right-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my right-hand.
B) I am right-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my left-hand.
C) I am left-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my left-hand.
D) I am left-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my right-hand.

A.
But it really depends on what I'm doing.

Depends.
Right, It changes for me depending on the application .
Pennycake said:
A.
But it really depends on what I'm doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

C. maybe i have stronger grip at my left than my right hand..
Sent from my GT-S5830 using xda premium

I'm predominantly use my right hand, but I often put my phone on my left side.
But still, it most comfortable to grab the phone with my right hand although crossing sides made it rather impractical. :laugh:
Usually I navigate with my right thumb, and write with both thumb because xray is a small one. :good::good:

Depends on what you need to do. For phones call - only right hand is OK. But for other things i prefer to grab phone with left hand and "do the job" with rigth

A but i keep a large size phone so i use it with both hands.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda app-developers app

Lefty! i go full stupid when trying to use my right thumb for anything other than typing.

*A*

Both hands. Whichever free
But I'm more comfy with right handed use(of course I'm right handed)!
life!

A.
Only when i play or i do zoom i use the left hand

A.
left hand to hold the phone, right hand to control it as i can't use one hand only to control the large screen

A, but if I'm using my right hand for something else, like writing or using a mouse, i switch the the left.

C
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire using xda app-developers app

Hold the phone with left hand and touch with right hand.
If use with only one hand, use right hand.

C. i always use left hand

lallolu said:
After reading about the sony xperia ZL's camera being on the bottom right and someone commented that right hand users will have problem with it, I realized that I actually use my left hand to operate my phone mostly even though I am right-handed. I think this is interesting to know, which is why I am making this survey to get the data. These are the options:
A) I am right-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my right-hand.
B) I am right-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my left-hand.
C) I am left-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my left-hand.
D) I am left-handed and I operate my phone mostly with my right-hand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FTW? You're right-handed but you use your left hand for phone? (the only vote in the poll??)
I'm left-handed but I use right hand for my phone just as everyone else.
BTW, you should include extra options for operating phone with both hand since the phones are getting bigger

CressKH said:
FTW? You're right-handed but you use your left hand for phone? (the only vote in the poll??)
I'm left-handed but I use right hand for my phone just as everyone else.
BTW, you should include extra options for operating phone with both hand since the phones are getting bigger
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed, I am the only one doing that... I must be a strange one.
Thanks for your advice, I missed that option which seems to be a popular one and I can't seem to find a way to edit the poll.

Both hands
Sent from my myTouch 4g using xda app-developers app

Usually left but i mostly use both.
__________________
Sweet Devil >_<
GT-P3100
Android 4.0.4 ICS
Sun Cellular
"LG should go bankrupt"

Related

N1 screen calibration

I'm convinced that the screen is slightly out of calibration - but I can see no way to reset the calibration. (I'm ex WinMo!) - it must be in there somewhere - or do i need "an app for that".
Advice appreciated
G.
I was also thinking this. Unfortunately I still have not bought the phone yet, or I would of tried creating an app to test this theory. If a touch can be captured in x/y data, we could see what the problem is with the bottom row keys.
gf_gollum said:
I'm convinced that the screen is slightly out of calibration - but I can see no way to reset the calibration. (I'm ex WinMo!) - it must be in there somewhere - or do i need "an app for that".
Advice appreciated
G.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The more I use the phone, I'm starting 2 think that the screen is not so much out of calibration, but is very sensitive 2 the angle that U touch the screen. when I use 2 hands 2 use the phone, It seems 2 always respond correctly
cause my finger is touching straight down, but if I use 1 hand and try 2 reach
across the it responds off a lil at times. 2 solve this I put the phone 2 the end of my
fingers and secure it as far from my thumb as possible. awkward at first 4 me be it responds correctly when I do. Hope this is clear and helps U. I do have big hands though.
esincho said:
The more I use the phone, I'm starting 2 think that the screen is not so much out of calibration, but is very sensitive 2 the angle that U touch the screen. when I use 2 hands 2 use the phone, It seems 2 always respond correctly
cause my finger is touching straight down, but if I use 1 hand and try 2 reach
across the it responds off a lil at times. 2 solve this I put the phone 2 the end of my
fingers and secure it as far from my thumb as possible. awkward at first 4 me be it responds correctly when I do. Hope this is clear and helps U. I do have big hands though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I might know what you are talking about. At times I can't slide home screens when using the phone with one hand and it can get very annoying, but I blame myself rather than this wonderful phone.
I also remember my wife using the phone while it was flat on the desk and it would not respond properly, but as soon as it was picked up and did the same procedures it would work properly. We were thinking that It may have something to do with the angle of the phone and our fingers on the screen. Dont really know I just know how to get it working.
Have you guys rooted and enabled multi-touch?
If not, are you sure this isn't to do with the lack of multi-touch. On my N1 I have the same problem when using it with one hand. And I've noticed it's because part of my palm sometimes touches the screen as I'm holding the phone. As theres no multi-touch it won't register what I'm selecting with my thumb until my palm stops touching the screen.
At first I suspected it was an issue with the screen responsiveness/calibration aswell. Because as you try and tap with your thumb a few times, eventually you move your palm and it works.
However, then I took a closer look everytime it happened, and noticed part of my palm was always touching the screen.
Obviously this doesn't happen when you use two hands as usually you will then hold the phone with your fingertips, not by wrapping your hand around it.
5to1 said:
Have you guys rooted and enabled multi-touch?
If not, are you sure this isn't to do with the lack of multi-touch. On my N1 I have the same problem when using it with one hand. And I've noticed it's because part of my palm sometimes touches the screen as I'm holding the phone. As theres no multi-touch it won't register what I'm selecting with my thumb until my palm stops touching the screen.
At first I suspected it was an issue with the screen responsiveness/calibration aswell. Because as you try and tap with your thumb a few times, eventually you move your palm and it works.
However, then I took a closer look everytime it happened, and noticed part of my palm was always touching the screen.
Obviously this doesn't happen when you use two hands as usually you will then hold the phone with your fingertips, not by wrapping your hand around it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, thanks for using your first post on us.
I think you are correct about the palm touching the screen. I have rooted and installed the modaco custom ROM, but I have not installed anything else for multi-touch. I will definitely look into this, thanks.
rydr1 said:
Dude, thanks for using your first post on us.
I think you are correct about the palm touching the screen. I have rooted and installed the modaco custom ROM, but I have not installed anything else for multi-touch. I will definitely look into this, thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem.
Coming from an iPhone it was not something I ever thought about, so was quite releaved when I figured out why it was happening.
Was on here looking for widgets when I spotted this so thought I'd register and save you scratching your head trying to figure it out like I did.
Lots of stuff to love about the phone, especially the battery life which I'm really impressed with and hadn't even expected to be a plus point over the 3GS. This was just supposed to be a stop gap until the iPhone 4G, but I'm actually thinking I may stick with it now
5to1 said:
This was just supposed to be a stop gap until the iPhone 4G, but I'm actually thinking I may stick with it now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you stick with it then welcome to android.
If you don't then you just need to have fun with this phone.
I've been finding ways around the major niggles I had over the last couple of weeks. So it's looking promising that I won't be splashing out for another iPhone in June/July.
It helps that my brother has one and I've had some time to play with it and get everything the way I want it. Which is part of the reason I got it now. If it had been during a really busy period (work wise), i'd probably be back on the 3GS.

Android big design problem.

hi guys...
since i started using an android phone i've been surprised of how the interface is poorly designed for the comfort of the user, one of the major issues for me is the "back button", and the problem is a lot worst with phones with screens over 4". everytime you need to go back you have to move your finger to the lower part of the phone where this button is located and if you dont have big hands it is very uncomfortable, it is even painful after a while,
i think that those buttons should be removed from android, now with ics and jellybean there is that software buttons that keep the same problem and also are a waste of space on the screen.
every app should have its own "back button" in some place that is easy to reach with your finger like the apps for the iphone ( dont kill me for using the iphone like an example in this particular aspect).
what do you guys think???
rodmc123 said:
hi guys...
since i started using an android phone i've been surprised of how the interface is poorly designed for the comfort of the user, one of the major issues for me is the "back button", and the problem is a lot worst with phones with screens over 4". everytime you need to go back you have to move your finger to the lower part of the phone where this button is located and if you dont have big hands it is very uncomfortable, it is even painful after a while,
i think that those buttons should be removed from android, now with ics and jellybean there is that software buttons that keep the same problem and also are a waste of space on the screen.
every app should have its own "back button" in some place that is easy to reach with your finger like the apps for the iphone ( dont kill me for using the iphone like an example in this particular aspect).
what do you guys think???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, iPhone has the back button embedded in the app and many are saying they need to implement dedicated back key in their phones. So its all about personal choice bro.
And I don't think Android needs to remove the back key and if you've used an iPhone you would know the hassle using it without a back button. Many iOS apps have back key located at various areas in their UI. So a normal user, who don't have much experience in using smartphones would get confused easily. But if dedicated back key is there, it makes all easy.
EDIT: Regarding the ICS/JB soft-keys option, if the manufactures think its a waste of space, they can simply disable it by modifying a line in one of the xml files. And if they decide they need not have to give their phones any hardware/capacitive buttons, they'll enable it. So google have given this feature as optional, and why would anyone think of removing that handy feature.
coolsandie said:
Well, iPhone has the back button embedded in the app and many are saying they need to implement dedicated back key in their phones. So its all about personal choice bro.
And I don't think Android needs to remove the back key and if you've used an iPhone you would know the hassle using it without a back button. Many iOS apps have back key located at various areas in their UI. So a normal user, who don't have much experience in using smartphones could get confused easily. But if dedicated back key is there, it makes all easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i think the back button is useful, but this is an ergonomic problem.. i think having a back button in the app it is a better solution, the waste of space on the screen also sucks, and i doubt that some pepole could be confused by a button with a back-arrow icon on it
rodmc123 said:
i think the back button is useful, but this is an ergonomic problem.. i think having a back button in the app it is a better solution, the waste of space on the screen also sucks, and i doubt that some pepole could be confused by a button with a back-arrow icon on it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After all, everyone gets a User-Manual with their phones. And every people that have paid for their new shiny phone would die to boot up fast and they'll look around, and by looking around they can easily know, the arrow stands for the Back key. :silly:
rodmc123 said:
i think the back button is useful, but this is an ergonomic problem.. i think having a back button in the app it is a better solution, the waste of space on the screen also sucks, and i doubt that some pepole could be confused by a button with a back-arrow icon on it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The main problem of the iphones back button is, is that sometimes it had different words, its in different places within the app, and its not simply a back button sometimes.
For example, when I use the keyboard on iOS, I have to tap on an area in the screen to close the keyboard, whereas on android its just a simple tap of the back button. Its just extremely consistent and I found myself tapping the empty area next to the home button on an ipod touch more than a few times expecting there to be a back button.
Although I have never used something as big as the One X, I imagine it would be hard (as you said) to reach the button without risking dropping the phone. But then I guess you buy a phone that fits your hand size, not something too big that you know will be a hassle
Sent from my MB508 using xda premium
If you use your left hand to hold the phone, why can't u use your little finger of your left hand to press the back button (it's convenient to me)
If u use the right hand, u can use the thumb of the right hand to press back.
Just my advice, no offence
rodmc123 said:
i think the back button is useful, but this is an ergonomic problem.. i think having a back button in the app it is a better solution, the waste of space on the screen also sucks, and i doubt that some pepole could be confused by a button with a back-arrow icon on it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You sound a bit like the commercial for the iphone5 with all that trollin arround here :laugh:
The 4" the sane size for a phone!!! -like speech etc.
If you don't like it you don't buy it. What is all that wining???
chaki- said:
You sound a bit like the commercial for the iphone5 with all that trollin arround here :laugh:
The 4" the sane size for a phone!!! -like speech etc.
If you don't like it you don't buy it. What is all that wining???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this is not an iphone vs android discussion.. i do not say the back button is not useful the thing is that the location of the button is very uncomfortable in devices with a big screen if you dont have huge hands.
i like 4,3" and 4,7" screens thats why i have a 4,3 screen.. but with the back button down there, atleast for my hand size, it is very annoying to use.
really nobody else noticed this issue?? i mean your finger is most of the time at the middle of the screen and from there you move it like a compass to the upper and lowwer part of the screen, now take a phone with a 4,3 (or bigger) display and try to do that, you have to use your other hand or you have to somehow move the phone so the bottom (where the back button is located) is reachable for your finger and in that process you can drop the phone or end up with tendinitis after a long time of use.
Mitch_Faiz_555 said:
If you use your left hand to hold the phone, why can't u use your little finger of your left hand to press the back button (it's convenient to me)
If u use the right hand, u can use the thumb of the right hand to press back.
Just my advice, no offence
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry but what you say does not make any sense, your "little finger" might be ridiculously large and flexible to do that.
chaki- said:
You sound a bit like the commercial for the iphone5 with all that trollin arround here :laugh:
The 4" the sane size for a phone!!! -like speech etc.
If you don't like it you don't buy it. What is all that wining???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do you know what is constructive criticism?? i like android, i like my phone i just wish they can improve the back button thing.. is that too much for you?
Personal preference. I like the dedicated back and menu buttons.
Never had a problem with them, makes switching or going through apps much faster than having to locate the back button on each app (which is not always obvious where they put it)
I'm asian. My fingers are relatively smaller than you guys but for me the buttons are very convenient to use. Mine is the S2.
Navigation bar is not a waste of the screen. Why? Because it's not just back key. There are recent apps and home too. For a futuristic full touch phone without any buttons, what do you expect for the alternatives of those 2 other keys? Gestures? That will be hard to be used.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
problem solved in ICS/JB
rodmc123 said:
sorry but what you say does not make any sense, your "little finger" might be ridiculously large and flexible to do that.
do you know what is constructive criticism?? i like android, i like my phone i just wish they can improve the back button thing.. is that too much for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's really is a personal choice.
I personally love the back button, have no problems using it with one hand, nor do with GF with her small hands and Optimus 4X HD, which is a larger phone than my Galaxy S2. Both of us cite the back button as a large factor contributing to the usability of Android.
If you don't like the back button, you can always switch to the iPhone. This is such a rare complain that I must say that you, OP, are in the sheer minority.
To add on, the fact that Windows Phone implements a back button as well shows that this is a feature that is beneficial rather than detrimental as you believe.
Logi_Ca1 said:
It's really is a personal choice.
I personally love the back button, have no problems using it with one hand, nor do with GF with her small hands and Optimus 4X HD, which is a larger phone than my Galaxy S2. Both of us cite the back button as a large factor contributing to the usability of Android.
If you don't like the back button, you can always switch to the iPhone. This is such a rare complain that I must say that you, OP, are in the sheer minority.
To add on, the fact that Windows Phone implements a back button as well shows that this is a feature that is beneficial rather than detrimental as you believe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i repeat, im not saying the back button is not useful!! all im saying is that the button is not well placed it is just an ergonomic problem.
for example, it would be a lot more easy to reach if they move to button to the side of the phone (contrary to the volume buttons), i know it sounds like weird place to put it, but if you take your phone you will notice that is a place where you always could easy reach the button without using your other hand or move the phone.
I like the back button too. As I don't need to rely on app developer to setup a back button
rodmc123 said:
i repeat, im not saying the back button is not useful!! all im saying is that the button is not well placed it is just an ergonomic problem.
for example, it would be a lot more easy to reach if they move to button to the side of the phone (contrary to the volume buttons), i know it sounds like weird place to put it, but if you take your phone you will notice that is a place where you always could easy reach the button without using your other hand or move the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could use this app (requires root though) :
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smart.swkey
It provides on screen functionality for navigation keys, which could be placed anywhere on the screen of your choice.
rodmc123, may I aks what device you are using? I believe it's also a manner of the ergonomics of the device itself. Many flagship devices have large screens and while design is nice, ergonomics may lose. I use the HTC One S momentarily (planning to rid it when new Nexus phones appeal), which is 2.56 by 5.15 inch, with a (screen) diagonal of 4.3 inch. That's too large for me to handle with one hand. Even though I'm not having much trouble using both hands most of the time, I do find it inconvinient I have to.
And indeed, there's the software button vs hardware button discussion. I believe it is simply mostly due to the ergonomics of the device itself, and depending on the OEM, software overlays creating additional bugs. Again, I'm a HTC user, got quite a bit of these stupid design flaws myself.
I can see the OP's point here, I started of with an HTC Hero which had quite a unique design with it's angled "chin" It was just the right size for one-handed operation. I upgraded to an HTC Sensation, being left handed, I run into trouble reaching the home button with my thumb. In fact using all the Hardware buttons at the bottom of the device does require shifting upwards in my palm.
It's got me wondering, would the hardware buttons be better off at the top? This being Android of course we don't need to wonder, we can try it out! Cyanogenmod for example allows full 360 rotation, although I might have to hack the Launcher a little bit to move the static app bar, I'm sure there was a setting for that pre-cm9, No matter it's just a case of editing the source or the layout xml. I'll just have to get used the upside down symbols.
Senzune said:
rodmc123, may I aks what device you are using? I believe it's also a manner of the ergonomics of the device itself. Many flagship devices have large screens and while design is nice, ergonomics may lose. I use the HTC One S momentarily (planning to rid it when new Nexus phones appeal), which is 2.56 by 5.15 inch, with a (screen) diagonal of 4.3 inch. That's too large for me to handle with one hand. Even though I'm not having much trouble using both hands most of the time, I do find it inconvinient I have to.
And indeed, there's the software button vs hardware button discussion. I believe it is simply mostly due to the ergonomics of the device itself, and depending on the OEM, software overlays creating additional bugs. Again, I'm a HTC user, got quite a bit of these stupid design flaws myself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have a motorola atrix 2.. anyway i dont think its the ergonomics of this particular device, i think any phone with a big screen would have the same issue with the back button placed at the bottom.
like i said, at the opposite side of the volume buttons would be the best place if you think of the position of your hand and your fingers when you are holding the phone.

Getting a sore thumb?

I love this phone, but the larger size (coming from a GS2) definitely puts a strain on my thumb as I move it up and down the screen, especially to hit the buttons. I don't have small hands, but I don't have large hands either, and this is definitely causing some discomfort after heavy usuage.
So, in case anyone else is experiencing this is well, a nice solution is to install Pie Control from the play store and configure it to provide home, back and menu buttons on the sides of the screen when you swipe. It works great, just takes a while to get into the habit, and it's much quicker and easier than moving all the way to the bottom to press the buttons. It's completely configurable as well.
Lol, gave me a chuckle.
I had a similar situation when I got my s3 coming from an s1. Eventually I got used to the larger screen and just naturally started holding the phone differently. My s4 isn't a great deal bigger than my s3 but it is noticeable. You will all get used to the size in no time at all, I promise.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
hansonator said:
Lol, gave me a chuckle.
I had a similar situation when I got my s3 coming from an s1. Eventually I got used to the larger screen and just naturally started holding the phone differently. My s4 isn't a great deal bigger than my s3 but it is noticeable. You will all get used to the size in no time at all, I promise.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the only thing larger on the GS4 is the screen. The phone itself is the same size.
Sent from my Galaxy S4 using Tapatalk
hansonator said:
Lol, gave me a chuckle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, it sounds like a classic first-world problem ... I have this amazing, incredible, portal device that can do almost anything anywhere I go, but ... my poor thumb gets tired using it!! :crying:
Are you kidding me? This thread is sooooo pointless.
Guys, my eyes are straining from peering around at such a larger screen than my Galaxy Nexus.
Any tips?
:silly::silly:
i game a lot so my thumbs have built muscle from it.
MrGriffdude said:
Are you kidding me? This thread is sooooo pointless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your post is off topic and pointless
I had the s2 and the s4 feels more comfortable
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
jsmith8858 said:
I love this phone, but the larger size (coming from a GS2) definitely puts a strain on my thumb as I move it up and down the screen, especially to hit the buttons. I don't have small hands, but I don't have large hands either, and this is definitely causing some discomfort after heavy usuage.
So, in case anyone else is experiencing this is well, a nice solution is to install Pie controls from the play store and configure it to provide home, back and menu buttons on the sides of the screen when you swipe. It works great, just takes a while to get into the habit, and it's much quicker and easier than moving all the way to the bottom to press the buttons. It's completely configurable as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had a similar problem going to s3 but I have small hands. I had to get treated for an injury at the base of my palm which was probably due to one-handed use. I kind of avoid using my thumb for scrolling or pressing buttons while holding the phone one-handed. I just use the index finger of the other hand to touch the screen. As a general rule, if you have discomfort using something, don't keep doing it, or take a rest, or find another way to do it. I learned the hard way
dsixda said:
I had a similar problem going to s3 but I have small hands. I had to get treated for an injury at the base of my palm which was probably due to one-handed use. I kind of avoid using my thumb for scrolling or pressing buttons while holding the phone one-handed. I just use the index finger of the other hand to touch the screen. As a general rule, if you have discomfort using something, don't keep doing it, or take a rest, or find another way to do it. I learned the hard way
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, very true! That's why I'm trying out the Pie Control, so far it's working pretty well. Also alternating by using my left hand when possible.
jsmith8858 said:
Yeah, very true! That's why I'm trying out the Pie Control, so far it's working pretty well. Also alternating by using my left hand when possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried using Pie Control for a while but it became a bit of an annoyance whenever you didn't want to touch it. Another thing you can do, if your S4 version supports it, is to install an AOSP-based ROM and turn on the soft/virtual keys so that they appear above the capacitive buttons. Then turn off the capacitive buttons and their LED (the hack is found in a Google search). This makes reaching for the buttons easier but at the expense of shorter screen space.
There will be insensitive people here who will scoff at and mock your problems (happened to me before too, just for saying I had small hands), but RSI is a real serious issue and is relevant to this phone, especially as these flagship devices are not going to get any smaller. Not everyone here has large hands.
Anyways I think this should be moved to the Q&A section.. ?
akira02rex said:
Guys, my eyes are straining from peering around at such a larger screen than my Galaxy Nexus.
Any tips?
:silly::silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you're saying you've never seen anything that big down there before.
dsixda said:
Anyways I think this should be moved to the Q&A section.. ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, there really isn't a question, just a tip I thought I'd share. Maybe Apps is a better place? (Though I do realize I phrased my topic as a question of course)
Baldilocks said:
Actually the only thing larger on the GS4 is the screen. The phone itself is the same size.
Sent from my Galaxy S4 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I realize that. I compared the two when I got my s4. The extra height of the screen is negligible but noticeable. I use my nexus 7 one handed so not a problem for me.
Sent from my SGH-I337M using xda premium

[Q] Nexus 5, G2, HTC One and S4 in terms of one handed usage?

I used to have an SII, and then jumped on the large screen bandwagon (after using it in a store) thinking it wouldn't affect me much. Fast forward one year after my Note II's purchase, if there is one thing I want in my next phone, it is to be able to use it with one hand easily.
One handed usage - Reach all points on a phone, including all the navigational buttons without shuffling or moving the phone in your hands.
Now I have already tried the S4, and I couldn't use it with one hand (Mind you, I have average sized hands, it's just not easy to do it).
My questions are for those of you who have used these devices:
1. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and S4? Is it a huge difference?
2. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and HTC One? Is it a huge difference?
3. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and G2? Is it a huge difference?
P.S. I will try the Nexus 5 in stores, though it's going to be some time before it comes in stores here.
UPDATE: I tried out the HTC One and it is possible for me to use it. But even a bit bigger would be impossible. I am more concerned about how the sharp edges of the Nexus 5 make it harder to use.
darkgoon3r96 said:
I used to have an SII, and then jumped on the large screen bandwagon (after using it in a store) thinking it wouldn't affect me much. Fast forward one year after my Note II's purchase, if there is one thing I want in my next phone, it is to be able to use it with one hand easily.
One handed usage - Reach all points on a phone, including all the navigational buttons without shuffling or moving the phone in your hands.
Now I have already tried the S4, and I couldn't use it with one hand (Mind you, I have average sized hands, it's just not easy to do it).
My questions are for those of you who have used these devices:
1. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and S4? Is it a huge difference?
2. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and G2? Is it a huge difference?
P.S. I will try the Nexus 5 in stores, though it's going to be some time before it comes in stores here.
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I know you didn't list it, but I previously used an HTC One (similarly sized to the S4), and I have large hands. I can use the N5/One with one hand, but I wouldn't call it "comfortable," in fact I'd call it precarious, as in order for me to reach the notification drawer with my thumb, I have to rest the phone on the remaining four fingers and reach upward with my thumb. I never use the phone one handed when not sitting down or stable.
aznxk3vi17 said:
I know you didn't list it, but I previously used an HTC One (similarly sized to the S4), and I have large hands. I can use the N5/One with one hand, but I wouldn't call it "comfortable," in fact I'd call it precarious, as in order for me to reach the notification drawer with my thumb, I have to rest the phone on the remaining four fingers and reach upward with my thumb. I never use the phone one handed when not sitting down or stable.
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Click to collapse
The main one for me is to be able to use it with one hand in bed while looking at the ceiling. I think that is possible with the HTC One if I install navigational buttons (I don't care for real estate, one handed use is much more important to me).
I think the Nexus 5 is great to use one handed, the bottom bezel actually provides a nice area to hold, and the phone is easy to balance.
The HTC One has a slightly smaller screen than the S4, I think. Both are comfortable to reach the whole screen, but the One is more comfortable to hold in general due to its curved shape and tapered edges.
The G2/N5 are built on very smilar specs. I would guess they use the exact same screen panel. A 5 inch screen is a bit too big for my tastes. I could use them with my hands- average size but with longer versatle fingers that are good for manipulating devices- but it wouldn't be preferable. Plus, fitting such a large phone in my pocked would be a pain.
Of the choices you list, I would suggest the S4. I own the One, and recommend that above the S4. HTC really picked up their game since the old EVO days...
cbburtraw said:
I would suggest the S4. I own the One, and recommend that above the S4.
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Click to collapse
Wait, what?!
I can tell you this - much harder to do than my N4, about the same as a Galaxy S3.
It is however manageable, and the curved back helps.
Once I stick it in my Spigen Slim Armor, it becomes a challenge for me, no way I can reach all points on screen one handed.
I do use my N5 with one hand on my way home from work. It is possible. But I need to move the phone in my hands in order to reach the top (e.g. address bar of browser) and the bottom (navigation keys) of the screen. This is dangerous because you can drop the phone if your are not very careful.
The width of the phone is not a problem for me.
I do not want to miss the large screen of the N5. But I am now 100% certain that I do not want an even larger phone.
-Tiz- said:
I do use my N5 with one hand on my way home from work. It is possible. But I need to move the phone in my hands in order to reach the top (e.g. address bar of browser) and the bottom (navigation keys) of the screen. This is dangerous because you can drop the phone if your are not very careful.
The width of the phone is not a problem for me.
I do not want to miss the large screen of the N5. But I am now 100% certain that I do not want an even larger phone.
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Click to collapse
Can you compare it to Nexus 4, S4, S3, or G2?
Getting to the top isn't easy even with big hands. Which is why I HAVE NO IDEA why so many devs put their bars AT THE TOP OF APPS.
Anyway, might go back and try out Nova launcher so i can swipe down for notficiation bar as Google refuses to implement gestures.
prawnguevara said:
Getting to the top isn't easy even with big hands. Which is why I HAVE NO IDEA why so many devs put their bars AT THE TOP OF APPS.
Anyway, might go back and try out Nova launcher so i can swipe down for notficiation bar as Google refuses to implement gestures.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's how I am using my Note II right now.
darkgoon3r96 said:
I used to have an SII, and then jumped on the large screen bandwagon (after using it in a store) thinking it wouldn't affect me much. Fast forward one year after my Note II's purchase, if there is one thing I want in my next phone, it is to be able to use it with one hand easily.
One handed usage - Reach all points on a phone, including all the navigational buttons without shuffling or moving the phone in your hands.
Now I have already tried the S4, and I couldn't use it with one hand (Mind you, I have average sized hands, it's just not easy to do it).
My questions are for those of you who have used these devices:
1. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and S4? Is it a huge difference?
2. How does one handed usage compare between the Nexus 5 and G2? Is it a huge difference?
P.S. I will try the Nexus 5 in stores, though it's going to be some time before it comes in stores here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the swiftkey keyboard just got an update that includes a 'compact keyboard' that pushes it to one side or the other. at first I laughed at such a feature, i mean it looks out of place. but i think it's a very good feature for people who like the large screens but want to only use one hand to type
Enddo said:
the swiftkey keyboard just got an update that includes a 'compact keyboard' that pushes it to one side or the other. at first I laughed at such a feature, i mean it looks out of place. but i think it's a very good feature for people who like the large screens but want to only use one hand to type
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Click to collapse
I don't have problems with the width. I have problems with the height.
I tell you its much easier to wield one handed then my previous Note 2. I was getting tired of hearing "what is that?" "it's so big" and it's even worse hearing people remark about my phone. So I wanted to downsize my handset and its a great size. I can one hand it for the most part but a little stretch for the top and bottom areas...
Itchiee said:
I tell you its much easier to wield one handed then my previous Note 2. I was getting tired of hearing "what is that?" "it's so big" and it's even worse hearing people remark about my phone. So I wanted to downsize my handset and its a great size. I can one hand it for the most part but a little stretch for the top and bottom areas...
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Click to collapse
So you can reach all the areas without shuffling the phone in your hand?
darkgoon3r96 said:
So you can reach all the areas without shuffling the phone in your hand?
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Click to collapse
Almost, the top and bottom are a slight stretch but my thumb can reach the other side again. So i can use swype one handed which was an issue with my note 2.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
I jumped directly from S2 two nexus 5..most of the time I can reach all parts of the screen with one hand(thumb).. perfect size, not too big like note 3 or too small like iPhone 5s..
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
allyrocky said:
I jumped directly from S2 two nexus 5..most of the time I can reach all parts of the screen with one hand(thumb).. perfect size, not too big like note 3 or too small like iPhone 5s..
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
At what times are you not able to reach all parts of the screen?
Say I'm using left hand and trying to reach setting in notification bar.. I won't be able to do that.. But don't find it an issue since I'm right handed
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
allyrocky said:
Say I'm using left hand and trying to reach setting in notification bar.. I won't be able to do that.. But don't find it an issue since I'm right handed
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Setting is actually a big button on stock android.. When using right handed, can you reach the new tab button on chrome at the top left? Can you also reach the profile picture in the notification tray (the button next to brightness)?

Left-handed friendly

As a left-handed, I almost always hold my phone in my right hand. This means my index finger naturally falls over the S8 fingerprint scanner. Also, there is only the small, stiff power button on the right side of the S8 so I don't end up pressing buttons inadvertently with my thumb as I do with many other phones. This is the most left-handed friendly phone I have ever used. If you are a lefty let us know how you feel about using the S8/S8+ in your world.
Well, I'm right handed, but I do hold my phone in the right hand 99% of the time. Maybe, as you've said, that's the reason I too never had a problem with the fingerprint scanner.
domsch1988 said:
Well, I'm right handed, but I do hold my phone in the right hand 99% of the time. Maybe, as you've said, that's the reason I too never had a problem with the fingerprint scanner.
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Click to collapse
So then the question becomes, "What percentage of people hold their phones mostly in their dominant hand?"
I don't but you do. The S8 has similar button layout to the iPhone - two on the left and one on the right. So I imagine that Apple and Samsung have drawn similar conclusions from studies that answer that question.
Calico007 said:
As a left-handed, I almost always hold my phone in my right hand. This means my index finger naturally falls over the S8 fingerprint scanner. Also, there is only the small, stiff power button on the right side of the S8 so I don't end up pressing buttons inadvertently with my thumb as I do with many other phones. This is the most left-handed friendly phone I have ever used. If you are a lefty let us know how you feel about using the S8/S8+ in your world.
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Click to collapse
You make it seem like it is perfectly natural that a left handed person holds the phone with the right hand. That is simply not true.
This is the most painful layout regarding fingerprint sensor for a leftie (you know the one that holds the phone with left hand) . The rest of the physical keys are fine for both hands. Soft keys are always contentious, therefore it is very nice being able to switch back and multitasking.
Sent from my phone
Idan73 said:
You make it seem like it is perfectly natural that a left handed person holds the phone with the right hand. That is simply not true.
This is the most painful layout regarding fingerprint sensor for a leftie (you know the one that holds the phone with left hand) . The rest of the physical keys are fine for both hands. Soft keys are always contentious, therefore it is very nice being able to switch back and multitasking.
Sent from my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try reading my very next post before proceeding to do exactly what you have just accused me of doing.
Being a left-handed, I used to hold my phone with my left hand (and navigate with the thumb). My main problem was the generalization of the flip covers (replacing the covers that opened downwards), and all the flip covers open to the left. So it was impossible to open the cover if holding the phone with the left hand. I had to learn how to hold my phone with my right hand, now it feels mostly natural and I'm navigating mostly with my right thumb.
I also bought the LED cover, which has separate "window" for the fingerprint scanner, so it's easy for me to find it. The only problem is when the cover is opened, I can't access the sensor, so I'm using iris unlock.
Calico007 said:
Try reading my very next post before proceeding to do exactly what you have just accused me of doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To summarize your first post.
You are a leftie that uses the phone in right hand. Therefore:
"this is the most left-handed friendly phone I have ever used."
End of summary.
Yes I simply responded to your initial post and this statement, among others.
So where does the left hand come into play. Lefties have learned to live in a world of right handed people. But to praise the regular scissors as leftie friendly, cause it frees my left hand to eat and jerk off, while I'm cutting something...
Your second post simply posits that samsung and apple cater to a majority. You make it seem as though they did some studies how many lefties hold their phones in right hand, and came to a conclusion.
They did not have to. Right handed people hold phone in dominant hand, and they are the majority of the population. End of story. Which makes this thread....
Sent from my SM-G935W8 using XDA-Developers Legacy app
If this is what you call a summary I’d hate to see your detailed explanations. This is the longest post in this thread. BTW, 100s of millions of people hold their phone in their non-dominant hand for various reasons. One being that people with smaller hands often type with their dominant hand and hold the phone with the other.
Fixed it for you. Peace.
Guilty though. Yes I tend to elaborate and make essays with my responses.
All the best.
Still definitely disagree that fingerprint location is left handed friendly.
It would have been too much to ask to have it below camera , centered as others. Now that would have been something useful. But no, therefore it stands unused on my phone.
Sent from my phone

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