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[Q] Galaxy S3 or Rezound

I'm looking for a phone with a really good camera, pretty fast all around(smooth), and get pretty decent battery life. I wouldn't mind getting a spare battery. But days I work I'm away from a charger for 14 hours, so I need it to last more than 10 hours. And days I work I'm not constantly on it, just my 4 10 minute breaks and 30 minute lunch. I've been reading on the Galaxy s3 and it seems to be the best phone coming out right now to verizon. The rezound is also really good and takes pretty good pics. I have a 6 month old son, and I always have my phone and not a camera, so its easier to take videos and pics of him with my phone. That's why I'd like a decent camera. What would ya'll recommend? thanks.

I do agree that the S3 is one of the best devices coming out. currently i am using the samsung infuse on att, and want to upgrade to the gs3 one i am able to. I personally would get the s3 given your two choices. the s3 will be a flagship device and will be supported longer. the s3 also has microSD card expansion so you can hold more videos and photos of your baby
have you considered the droid razr maxx? it has a 3300 mAh battery{non removable unfortunately}, so battey life will be excellent and it has an 8 mp camera. its also rated number 1 on consumer reports for verizon smartphones. im not on verizon but i stay up to date on the top phones. it all depends on which manufacturer you go with.
hope this helps.

Rezound Great Camera
I have the Rezound and I can tell you that it takes the best pictures of any phone i have seen. My brother has the Razr, and my friend the Nexus, and both are beyond impressed with the quality images i get with my phone. I am in the market for a phone for my wife, and the camera is the one thing that might keep me away from the GS3. I understand it has the same camera as the S2, and if that's the case then it will be another Rezound for my wife without hesitation. I don't have a single complaint about the Rezound. Batteries could always be better, but with the leaked ICS my battery life has near doubled. As long as you don't keep screen at full brightness and stream music all day, the battery in the Rezound will last you fine. It's damn near perfect.

samsung galaxy SIII unquestionably

Still Diggin the Rezound.
ryufeliz said:
samsung galaxy SIII unquestionably
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Click to collapse
Obviously it isn't unquestionably, or there wouldn't be a forum. I would like to hear why you think it is such a great phone. What are it's real advantages here in the US.
I like the larger battery in the S3, but with all the issues regarding the Samsung radios (Galaxy Nexus) it makes me hesitate. Also Samsung has not been known for their cameras. Add to that the fact that they used an old-school pentile screen and have a big strange hardware button, it's just doesn't scream greatness.
I'm trying to want the S3, but i keep talking myself out of it. And if they drop the price on the Rezound back to $50 or even $100, why would you pay $200 more for what is basically the same specs?

+ 1 , Rageboardr ...
Your speech is perfect and I totally agree.
They yet haven't invented the "unquestionably" phone...

I think the htc ONE X has also a very good camera !

how about rezond?
a little bit qualifying againts sIII

febrilabs said:
how about rezond?
a little bit qualifying againts sIII
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Click to collapse
With the Rezound i know it is a great phone. It is tried and tested. It already has a 1.5 dual core processor. Its HD screen is amazing. It has the best pixel density of any phone that I am aware of currently in production. Stupid GS3 went with a pentile matrix, a step back from the nexus. It has terrific reception, it destroys the Razr and Nexus on road trips. I almost never lost a signal from SC to PA through the mountains. The camera on the Rezound is one of the best i have seen in a phone. Again it takes way better pics than the Razr or Nexus. I am also a big fan of HTC's Sense. They have the best widgets. I have no experience with touchwiz, but i know i don't like Blur. But any launcher can fix that. The Rezound has a nice quality build, and won't slip out of hand. Not slick plastic like the S3.
Lastly the Rezound fits comfortably in the hand. It could loose a little weight around the middle, but it can be easily operated with one hand. I prefer a little girth because I am rather harsh on a phone, and the thinness of the Razr worries me. My friend with the Nexus has a son who just sat on his Razr in his back pocket and crushed it. If i think of any other highlights i will add later.

I'd get the s3,the camera is awesome.
Sent from my U8150 using XDA

Allanitomwesh said:
I'd get the s3,the camera is awesome.
Sent from my U8150 using XDA
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Click to collapse
I understand that it is the same camera that was on the S2. Just has newer software, which can be downloaded via ROM I imagine. The Rezound also has dual LED flash.
Also the GS3 front camera takes a step down from its predecessor. 1.2 vs 2.0
Have you read somewhere that the camera in the S3 is awesome, or are you just assuming.

Rageboardr said:
Obviously it isn't unquestionably, or there wouldn't be a forum. I would like to hear why you think it is such a great phone. What are it's real advantages here in the US.
I like the larger battery in the S3, but with all the issues regarding the Samsung radios (Galaxy Nexus) it makes me hesitate. Also Samsung has not been known for their cameras. Add to that the fact that they used an old-school pentile screen and have a big strange hardware button, it's just doesn't scream greatness.
I'm trying to want the S3, but i keep talking myself out of it. And if they drop the price on the Rezound back to $50 or even $100, why would you pay $200 more for what is basically the same specs?
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Click to collapse
Same specs? no....
Snapdragon S4 Krait with Adreno 225 GPU >>>>>>>>>> S3 with Adreno 220 GPU which currently struggles to push a screen with that resolution consistantly smooth
I much rather have a Super Amoled HD than a SLD that Rezound has (poor contrast imo and viewing angles), if it was SLCD2 like One X id be a different story
sense 4 > touchwiz 5 > sense 3.6 (rezound)
GS3 will have 2GB RAM and will surely get Jellybean which i highly doubt Rezound will get anything beyond ICS.
my thoughts
edit: BtW, SGS3 has a 1.9mp FFC, not 1.2

I did say basically the same specs, which means not exactly.
I have seen no problem from my S3 processor pushing my screen smoothly. Games like Shadowgun, and Dead Space play without any hiccups. Aside from a "smoother screen," what else does the better processor bring? Are they games or apps that will benifit?
I am sure the S4 is better than the S3, but both are pushing 1.5 ghz, so it sounds like a slight improvement. And with that improvement in processor, they skipped on the SAMOLED+ that was present on the Nexus. So a better processor with a weaker screen. It's a trade off to be sure.
I do wish the screen on the Rezound was brighter in the sun, but that seems like a problem for most phones. Even Samoled, though they say it is better. I still had a hard time with the Nexus in the sun.
The only real substantial advantage i see is the 2G Ram. I don't know what i need that much RAM for, but i'm sure i could find something to do with it.
I would like to see JellyBean on my phone, but I will likely root and ROM after the year warranty runs out, so i don't see that as being much of a deciding factor. It will release with ICS, which i already have.
I am only playing Devils Advocate, because like i said, I do want to want this phone. Thanks for all the input.

Rageboardr said:
I understand that it is the same camera that was on the S2. Just has newer software, which can be downloaded via ROM I imagine. The Rezound also has dual LED flash.
Also the GS3 front camera takes a step down from its predecessor. 1.2 vs 2.0
Have you read somewhere that the camera in the S3 is awesome, or are you just assuming.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check this out
http://m.theinquirer.net/inquirer/review/2181045/samsung-galaxy-s3-camera-hands-review
Sent from my U8150 using XDA

That does sound like a fine camera. I am at least pretty sure that I will not be taking a step back from my current camera.
Now lets just hope that they figured out the issues with the radios on the Nexus, and this phone wont have a repeat of the same problems.

Rageboardr said:
That does sound like a fine camera. I am at least pretty sure that I will not be taking a step back from my current camera.
Now lets just hope that they figured out the issues with the radios on the Nexus, and this phone wont have a repeat of the same problems.
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Click to collapse
I don't mind it,seems well built. The pentile screen is just people flaw hunting. 306 ppi HD I doubt you'll see any pixels.Do you walk around with a microscope?
Sent from my U8150 using XDA

s3
Undoubtedly s3 all the way..!!!!!

Rageboardr said:
I did say basically the same specs, which means not exactly.
I have seen no problem from my S3 processor pushing my screen smoothly. Games like Shadowgun, and Dead Space play without any hiccups. Aside from a "smoother screen," what else does the better processor bring? Are they games or apps that will benifit?
I am sure the S4 is better than the S3, but both are pushing 1.5 ghz, so it sounds like a slight improvement. And with that improvement in processor, they skipped on the SAMOLED+ that was present on the Nexus. So a better processor with a weaker screen. It's a trade off to be sure.
I do wish the screen on the Rezound was brighter in the sun, but that seems like a problem for most phones. Even Samoled, though they say it is better. I still had a hard time with the Nexus in the sun.
The only real substantial advantage i see is the 2G Ram. I don't know what i need that much RAM for, but i'm sure i could find something to do with it.
I would like to see JellyBean on my phone, but I will likely root and ROM after the year warranty runs out, so i don't see that as being much of a deciding factor. It will release with ICS, which i already have.
I am only playing Devils Advocate, because like i said, I do want to want this phone. Thanks for all the input.
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Click to collapse
Looks to me that you already have your mind made up since what im seeing here is attempts to invalidate or brush off any advantage the SGS3 has over the rezound to convince yourself that the rezound is worth getting.
If you prefer the Rezound then by all means, enjoy it to the fullest
btw: galaxy nexus has samoled hd pentile, same as the sgs3 but .01 inch smaller.

I am not trying to convince myself to buy a Rezound, I am trying to convince myself to buy a Galaxy S3.
I know the Rezound is worth getting since i already have it, and it rocks. No one will be disappointed if they decide to get it. But it is a 6-7 month old phone.
I plan to use my wife's upgrade, and bequeath my Rezound to her, because she really needs a better camera on her phone. I don't want to use her upgrade to get another Rezound because, well, then i don't get a new phone. But i have to use her upgrade before Unlimited data expires, so unless miracles happen and Verizon decides against dumping the unlimited thing, then the GS3 is the only option.
I guess i just expected better arguments from a newer flagship phone. Something defining. Something I couldn't live without, and could say, look how ridiculously awesome this is. But I will buy it and try it, and exchange it if i don't like it.
I appreciate all the input.

Rageboardr said:
I am not trying to convince myself to buy a Rezound, I am trying to convince myself to buy a Galaxy S3.
I know the Rezound is worth getting since i already have it, and it rocks. No one will be disappointed if they decide to get it. But it is a 6-7 month old phone.
I plan to use my wife's upgrade, and bequeath my Rezound to her, because she really needs a better camera on her phone. I don't want to use her upgrade to get another Rezound because, well, then i don't get a new phone. But i have to use her upgrade before Unlimited data expires, so unless miracles happen and Verizon decides against dumping the unlimited thing, then the GS3 is the only option.
I guess i just expected better arguments from a newer flagship phone. Something defining. Something I couldn't live without, and could say, look how ridiculously awesome this is. But I will buy it and try it, and exchange it if i don't like it.
I appreciate all the input.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good luck,I honestly think you'll love it.
Sent from my Ideos using XDA

To get the S3 or something else?

My digitizer just died on my HTC One X and bought it out right and looking to get a new phone. I found out I was approved for a concession line at work so I am looking for a new phone on Verizon. The Motorola Maxx HD just came out, the S3 has been out for a while, and the Note 2 just came out. I am trying to decide between each, and are wondering yall’s recommendation. I like the S3 and its size, and how there is a lot of development of it. The Maxx HD has epic batter life and I like the design and materials used and the note 2 I love the screen size. I am trying to decide between which. Give me your comments!

This phone gets better and better. Granted US version we dont have the quad core like the International version, But this thing will crush anything push it through. With suspected Jellybean update to come, it will get better.
Now I hear the phone pops up on sale here and there, like $99 at bestbuy or so. But i don't know which carrier that is. Don't think there is anything out right now or in the upcoming months that will really kill it. The Note 2 specs look to be a bit better with the quad core and 2gb ram, but that is in a different class.
Right now it has the popularity behind it and marketing that makes it a more common name against the iphone.

If the Note 2 is not to big for you then I would say go for it. It is basically an S3 plus more. You will need to wait a month for release though on Verizon.
The S3 is the next best thing or the best thing if the Note 2 is to large for you.
I would not purchase the Razr HD over these 2 phones. I would look at if if the Note 2 and S3 were not out. The S3 gives me more then enough battery to make it through the day with room to spare when I plug in at night.
As far as dev goes, I am sure you will see more on the Samsung devices then Moto's but I must say I came from an GNEX and nothing compares to the development of that device. Unfortunately everything else sucked about it.

If you can handle a phone that large then the Note2 is the undisputed king right now as far as power and capability. The quad-core, and non-pentile display make it a beast hardware-wise, and the s-pen and multitasking capabilities could add a lot of value as far as what you can do with your phone. It also has the micro-sd and removable battery that we love about Samsung devices in general.
If the Note2 is too large then the decision between the RazrMaxxHD and Galaxy SIII is a bit more difficult. Hardware-wise they are similar, same processor, AMOLED pentile screens. From what I've read the RAZR feels like a more solid device with metal, glass, and kevlar. It might feel and look a bit more "premium". The Engadget review seemed to feel that ergonomics suffered due to the squared off corners and heft though. It also doesn't have a removable battery. From a software standpoint the SIII is probably better with a more active dev community and there's no guarantee that the Motorola will have an unlocked bootloader anytime soon.
I think battery life isn't that big of a deal, both the SIII and Note2 should get you through a full day and let you recharge while you sleep. If they don't the removable battery lets you get an extended battery with like 4400maH which is crazy.

[Q] Switching to RAZR HD

Gents,
I have a few questions regarding your phone. I recently left Android as a favor to my wife (switched for an iphone, handing it down to her when I upgrade). I am looking to jump back into Android but have a bit of a tough decision to make.
I've used the Rezound, G-Nex, and the S3, I haven't used a motorola since my old droid X. I'm looking to possibly get the RAZR MAXX HD.
The DNA has been ruled out due to potential horrible battery life and non-expandable storage.
I ruled out going back to an S3 or getting a note 2 as I don't like the new samsung build quality/touchwiz.
I am tempted to get a G-Nex again (found the 32GB version at a best buy), I was able to get excellent photos with it. The battery life sucked, but I loved vanilla android. While I have rooted and flashed custom roms to all my phones, with the nexus I ended up going back to stock most of the time.
after testing the RAZR HD, I have only a few concerns. First is the camera....I've heard negative things about it, but also heard that JB resolves some issues. I don't take a lot of photos but the phone is my primary camera. I loved the pics that I received from the rezound, g-nex and s3.
Second concern: I am hoping that with the "close to vanilla" features of the razr that I will not feel the need to flash roms very much, I have noticed that rom dev is not as popular as other devices (granted, I came from a nexus and also the fact that this device hasn't been out as long as an s3). I know that the locked bootloader has chased away several talented devs in the past and has been a repellant to new devs jumping to the device.
I guess after this long rant, my questions is to users that used and liked the cameras on my previous three phones listed; do you like the razr camera as well? will I be disappointed? Should I hang on until february and then upgrade?
your thoughts?
thanks for your time.

gio2005 said:
Gents,
I have a few questions regarding your phone. I recently left Android as a favor to my wife (switched for an iphone, handing it down to her when I upgrade). I am looking to jump back into Android but have a bit of a tough decision to make.
I've used the Rezound, G-Nex, and the S3, I haven't used a motorola since my old droid X. I'm looking to possibly get the RAZR MAXX HD.
The DNA has been ruled out due to potential horrible battery life and non-expandable storage.
I ruled out going back to an S3 or getting a note 2 as I don't like the new samsung build quality/touchwiz.
I am tempted to get a G-Nex again (found the 32GB version at a best buy), I was able to get excellent photos with it. The battery life sucked, but I loved vanilla android. While I have rooted and flashed custom roms to all my phones, with the nexus I ended up going back to stock most of the time.
after testing the RAZR HD, I have only a few concerns. First is the camera....I've heard negative things about it, but also heard that JB resolves some issues. I don't take a lot of photos but the phone is my primary camera. I loved the pics that I received from the rezound, g-nex and s3.
Second concern: I am hoping that with the "close to vanilla" features of the razr that I will not feel the need to flash roms very much, I have noticed that rom dev is not as popular as other devices (granted, I came from a nexus and also the fact that this device hasn't been out as long as an s3). I know that the locked bootloader has chased away several talented devs in the past and has been a repellant to new devs jumping to the device.
I guess after this long rant, my questions is to users that used and liked the cameras on my previous three phones listed; do you like the razr camera as well? will I be disappointed? Should I hang on until february and then upgrade?
your thoughts?
thanks for your time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you liked the camera in the S3, then you will like the camera in the RAZR HD. Simple as that. They have the exact same sensor AFAIK. The performance of the camera is indeed improved under JB and now it's pretty good.
There's not much ROM dev happening which is a shame..... Dealbreaker? No.
I think you'll love the phone. It's hands down the best droid I've ever owned (I came from the HOX and the GS3). Loving it so far and not looking back! In summary I definitely do not think you will be disappointed. Get on board!

If you've used any iPhone camera since the 4, or the Samsung S3, you will be severely disappointed. White balance is way off under tungsten lights, tons of noise in images shot at ISO 100, and generally slow operation. Love the phone, just my honest opinion as a photographer.

Arkasai said:
If you've used any iPhone camera since the 4, or the Samsung S3, you will be severely disappointed. White balance is way off under tungsten lights, tons of noise in images shot at ISO 100, and generally slow operation. Love the phone, just my honest opinion as a photographer.
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Click to collapse
It's odd, the camera is my S3 was pretty sub par, and I found it not terribly different to the RAZR HD camera. But you're not the first one to rate it more highly then I ever did. Perhaps mine was a dud. Either way, I do agree that the camera in the RAZR is not great, and neither was my S3 hence the comparison. The RAZR is such a great phone though that the pros easily outweigh then cons (for me).

Gents,
Many thanks for the responses, I ended up not getting the RAZR HD, the only reason being the camera. I almost didn't upgrade at all as my requirements were good camera, great battery life, and removable storage. I couldn't find a phone on big red that fit all of these that I was interested in.
My wife ended asking me why I ruled out the Note 2, after talking with her about it for a while, I ended up giving it a try and the device is great. I'm still concerned about the fragile build quality, however I have accessories that hopefully will help that. as far as touchwiz goes, I still don't like it, but the camera and S-Pen software rocks. I'm settling for Nova Prime and widgetlocker to assist in getting a vanilla-ish feel.
again, I appreciate your responses. They were very helpful in my decision.
Thanks,
Mods - this thread can be closed.

Note 2 for maxx??

Question for you MOTO guys. I have a Note 2 currently. I've been looking to trade it for a while now. I have a guy wanting to trade straight up for a 1 month old Droid Maxx (the new version). I was looking for some opinions... I have owned the Razr, Razr HD, Razr Maxx HD and all of those seemed to lag bad. Can someone give me some input on this? Thanks in advance...
Also, I'm a craigslist pro and know everything necessary for the trading part. I'm only looking for input on the devices...

I went from the Note 2 to the Maxx and couldn't be happier. I notice no performance difference at all. The Note has a bit nicer screen (color-wise) but otherwise i can think of nothing that gives it an edge.
Keep in mind though, you'll be going to a very locked down phone with almost no development community. If you're a flash addict, this isn't the device for you.
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk

erishasnobattery said:
I went from the Note 2 to the Maxx and couldn't be happier. I notice no performance difference at all. The Note has a bit nicer screen (color-wise) but otherwise i can think of nothing that gives it an edge.
Keep in mind though, you'll be going to a very locked down phone with almost no development community. If you're a flash addict, this isn't the device for you.
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
I had a feeling it was still like that. Without really researching it... I remember those days when I had the Droid X. Never could really truly change it all that much... I just want to be sure the lag that existed on the razr line isn't on this device. Hard to tell really by just looking at one at a store or I'd do that. The Maxx seems to be more "advanced", besides the screen. Wireless charging, the voice command features, etc. Is the camera a lot better than the previous models? They sucked bad.....

The maxx is just very stock android, which i prefer. I feel like the overlays like TW and Sense just haven't evolved much since the GB days. Yes, they're better than they were, but they aren't really leveraging everything android has to offer yet.
As far as the camera goes, i don't take a lot of pictures, as i have a camera for that. It does take decent pictures, but it doesn't have the features of the Samsung camera. It does ok for me, but a real picture-phile (i think i made that word up) will be disappointed.
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk

brandon2x said:
I had a feeling it was still like that. Without really researching it... I remember those days when I had the Droid X. Never could really truly change it all that much... I just want to be sure the lag that existed on the razr line isn't on this device. Hard to tell really by just looking at one at a store or I'd do that. The Maxx seems to be more "advanced", besides the screen. Wireless charging, the voice command features, etc. Is the camera a lot better than the previous models? They sucked bad.....
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Click to collapse
The Maxx/Ultra run a very Vanillaish version of android which makes it really smooth and fast, not at all like the Razr HD. The camera is OK, not the best but they did just release a firmware update which improved the camera. Fwiw I have a Note II and a Maxx and the maxx is smoother and faster imho. While there isn't much development for the maxx you can get root and install recovery and used the xPosed framework which provides for some visual customization.

erishasnobattery said:
The maxx is just very stock android, which i prefer. I feel like the overlays like TW and Sense just haven't evolved much since the GB days. Yes, they're better than they were, but they aren't really leveraging everything android has to offer yet.
As far as the camera goes, i don't take a lot of pictures, as i have a camera for that. It does take decent pictures, but it doesn't have the features of the Samsung camera. It does ok for me, but a real picture-phile (i think i made that word up) will be disappointed.
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Picture-phile... That's a good one.... I take A LOT of pictures with my phone. It's just more convenient and the pictures are as good or better than any digital camera I've personally ever owned... TW on the Note 2 seems pretty important to me. I am probably one of the only people who actually USE the s-pen quite often and the way its built in to TW just works... I think based off what you've told me, I'm going to stick with my Note. I appreciate your fast responses. Have a great day.

brandon2x said:
Question for you MOTO guys. I have a Note 2 currently. I've been looking to trade it for a while now. I have a guy wanting to trade straight up for a 1 month old Droid Maxx (the new version). I was looking for some opinions... I have owned the Razr, Razr HD, Razr Maxx HD and all of those seemed to lag bad. Can someone give me some input on this? Thanks in advance...
Also, I'm a craigslist pro and know everything necessary for the trading part. I'm only looking for input on the devices...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not a Note 2 user here...buy I've had a GS3 since its launch day and just upgraded to a Maxx...I fell in love with the Maxx as soon as I started using it...
Development is a little scarce to say the least...but I almost don't even care...the stock performance beats the pants off any ROM/kernel/OC'ing I ever experienced on my GS3...
I do need to take the time to root this thing in the next couple of days but I dont even feel the desire for much else other than basic root functions...
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk

I was doing a comparison with my brother's N2 and my Maxx. This Maxx, with the LTE, was doing everything faster and smoother. Not once was his phone more responsive or as polished as the Maxx.
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

I vote to keep the Note 2.
I'm a former Droid Razr owner...you'd be hard pressed into talking me into any phone that had a locked bootloader like the Motorola devices. Plus the Motorola devices just don't have the sales volume of Samsung so that's another reason that the development community is small. I just love the large amount of custom ROMs that are available for the top selling phones.
For the guy who just came from the S3, I've got Paranoid Android with 4.4 on mine and everything opens pretty much instantaneously. I wouldn't mind having more (Cores/RAM/Storage/Screen) but it would really just be for show. I can wait for my contract to be up before I get the "Next Big Thing" (S5?)
That being said I don't have any other specific complaints about the new Moto Droid devices and I am mulling over getting a Droid Mini on for my stepdaughter for Christmas. Using Early Edge since Verizon took the early upgrade program away, and I promised her a new phone if she kept up GPA above 3.5. It seems to have the same CPU and memory specs as the Maxx and the Ultra, just with a smaller screen. She'll never root it or anything. I wouldn't mind getting her the Ultra or Maxx either but I'm not sure she wants a device that big.
Which leads to my other question, I guess the Maxx/Ultra/Mini are all in this forum since they seem to have the same hardware specs?

brons2 said:
I vote to keep the Note 2.
I'm a former Droid Razr owner...you'd be hard pressed into talking me into any phone that had a locked bootloader like the Motorola devices. Plus the Motorola devices just don't have the sales volume of Samsung so that's another reason that the development community is small. I just love the large amount of custom ROMs that are available for the top selling phones.
For the guy who just came from the S3, I've got Paranoid Android with 4.4 on mine and everything opens pretty much instantaneously. I wouldn't mind having more (Cores/RAM/Storage/Screen) but it would really just be for show. I can wait for my contract to be up before I get the "Next Big Thing" (S5?)
That being said I don't have any other specific complaints about the new Moto Droid devices and I am mulling over getting a Droid Mini on for my stepdaughter for Christmas. Using Early Edge since Verizon took the early upgrade program away, and I promised her a new phone if she kept up GPA above 3.5. It seems to have the same CPU and memory specs as the Maxx and the Ultra, just with a smaller screen. She'll never root it or anything. I wouldn't mind getting her the Ultra or Maxx either but I'm not sure she wants a device that big.
Which leads to my other question, I guess the Maxx/Ultra/Mini are all in this forum since they seem to have the same hardware specs?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct, this forum covers all of the new Droid line.
Personally I would consider a Moto X for your daughter over the Droid Mini. The specs are about the same but the Moto X feels much better in hand and is a much more stylish device. The Droid Ultra is the worst of both worlds and should not even be considered IMO. I have the Droid Maxx and my wife has the Moto X, and both are great devices with slightly different strengths (battery/screen size on the Maxx, form factor/customization on the Moto X).

unbesorgt said:
Correct, this forum covers all of the new Droid line.
Personally I would consider a Moto X for your daughter over the Droid Mini. The specs are about the same but the Moto X feels much better in hand and is a much more stylish device. The Droid Ultra is the worst of both worlds and should not even be considered IMO. I have the Droid Maxx and my wife has the Moto X, and both are great devices with slightly different strengths (battery/screen size on the Maxx, form factor/customization on the Moto X).
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Stylish? Huh, she shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. I told her in July I wouldn't be able to get her another phone until May because Verizon had done away with the early upgrade program.
This is based on what I feel like paying. I am going above and beyond to do this for her. Even her mother encouraged me not to do it, but I feel the need to keep my original promise I made last Christmas. And I feel a little bad making her have a Droid Razr with a battery that broke, then an Xperia Play I had sitting around, and then (now) a used Droid Bionic I got off of Ebay.
So...
In the Edge program you basically pay for it every month, full retail divided by 24 months, so the Mini is appealing because full the retail price is only $349, or $14.54 per month. I think the Moto X was $549 so it would be $22.89 a month.
I can buy a 6 pack of Blue Moon with the leftover 8 dollars.
The other thing is that if I was going to go with a larger more expensive phone I like the G2 better than the MotoX. But I haven't looked at any reviews of the MotoX or the G2 either. I hated the HTC interface, and considering I will have to support her remotely, rather have an interface I can deal with. The S4 is not an option because it costs more than the other phones in the same class.
I could put my line on Edge, and do a hand-me-down with my S3 that works perfectly. But I would want an S4 out of that group and it would cost more. I'd rather wait until May when my contract is up and then I can re-up for another 2 year with either an S4 or S5.
So given all that, the Mini seems like a pretty good option considering I'm only paying $349 out of pocket and it has similar specs to all the other current gen Moto phones. But if she really wants a 5" phone we'll talk when she gets in town on Friday.

brons2 said:
Stylish? Huh, she shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. I told her in July I wouldn't be able to get her another phone until May because Verizon had done away with the early upgrade program.
This is based on what I feel like paying. I am going above and beyond to do this for her. Even her mother encouraged me not to do it, but I feel the need to keep my original promise I made last Christmas. And I feel a little bad making her have a Droid Razr with a battery that broke, then an Xperia Play I had sitting around, and then (now) a used Droid Bionic I got off of Ebay.
So...
In the Edge program you basically pay for it every month, full retail divided by 24 months, so the Mini is appealing because full the retail price is only $349, or $14.54 per month. I think the Moto X was $549 so it would be $22.89 a month.
I can buy a 6 pack of Blue Moon with the leftover 8 dollars.
The other thing is that if I was going to go with a larger more expensive phone I like the G2 better than the MotoX. But I haven't looked at any reviews of the MotoX or the G2 either. I hated the HTC interface, and considering I will have to support her remotely, rather have an interface I can deal with. The S4 is not an option because it costs more than the other phones in the same class.
I could put my line on Edge, and do a hand-me-down with my S3 that works perfectly. But I would want an S4 out of that group and it would cost more. I'd rather wait until May when my contract is up and then I can re-up for another 2 year with either an S4 or S5.
So given all that, the Mini seems like a pretty good option considering I'm only paying $349 out of pocket and it has similar specs to all the other current gen Moto phones. But if she really wants a 5" phone we'll talk when she gets in town on Friday.
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Didn't realize you were buying off contract ... in that case sure the Droid Mini is a very good choice. As for 5" displays, the Droid Maxx is now $499 off contract which is probably the best deal going in that class (price might be good online only though, not 100% sure). I think of the Moto X as the same class as the Droid Mini because the form factor is so small, although it does have a slightly larger display (4.7" vs. 4.3").

unbesorgt said:
Didn't realize you were buying off contract ... in that case sure the Droid Mini is a very good choice. As for 5" displays, the Droid Maxx is now $499 off contract which is probably the best deal going in that class (price might be good online only though, not 100% sure). I think of the Moto X as the same class as the Droid Mini because the form factor is so small, although it does have a slightly larger display (4.7" vs. 4.3").
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Update: The Maxx just dropped to $449 off-contract today. Amazing deal IMO.

[Q] Currently Have a Verizon S3, looking for a decent replacement phone

I currently have a Verizon S3. I got it on launch day over 2 years ago. I rooted it and put cyanogenmod on it as soon as I could. I use CM just because t runs much smoother than TW. Honestly, I don't need most of the extra features of TW, I just need a decent phone that runs smoothly. I am looking to get a new phone. I am going to pay full price, or find a used one. I am out of contract and I plan on keeping it that way as long as they continue to give me a $25/month discount. I have been looking at a few different phones but I just can't decide. Here is what I am looking for:
-I would like removable storage, but it isn't a must. I have the 16gb S3 and a 16gb SD card. I haven't even filled up the phone memory yet. I am almost always connected to WIFI at work so if I need something, I have it on Goolgle Drive or dropbox or MS OneDrive.
-Minimalist manufacturer OS skin. Like the Moto X. Practically Vanilla Android. Or at least the ability to root and load a very vanilla ROM. I have done a good amount of rooting and romming before. As long as there are decent directions, I can usually follow them well enough to get it done.
-Removable Battery. Almost an absolute. I am almost never sitting down long enough to charge my phone adequately. I currently have 3 OEM Samsung batteries for my S3. I have a desktop charger at home. One battery usually lasts me all day, but sometimes it will die mid-day if I used the phone a lot. I have to have my phone charged up and functioning at all times for work so I just carry one of the spare batteries in my pocket and swap it out once the phone dies.
-I don't want a huge phone. I don't need a Note. Or anything much bigger than 5". I bought an S4 a while back and I thought it felt a little bit big. I like the size of my S3. I don't want to go much larger. I have a tablet for reading or checking email, I don't need to do those things on my phone.
Those are my main requirements. I don't care so much about the camera, Or processor (as long as the experience is smooth), Or Speakers. I need the phone to be a phone.
I had been looking at the 2013 MotoX, although it doesn't have a removable battery. I can live without removable storage. Otherwise it would be perfect. I had hoped that the new MotoX would have had a removable battery, but no such luck. And they increased the size a bunch, so like many others, I am not really happy with they way that Motorola went with the updated version. Otherwise I have thought about an S4 Mini. But really, an S4 mini isn't even an upgrade from the S3, so that is practically pointless. So then I maybe thought about the S5 Mini. I realize that it hasn't been released on Verizon yet, I was going to wait. But looking at those specs, the S5 mini is almost exactly the same as an S3, so again, no point in "upgrading". I am open to LG and HTC phones, I just don't know much about them. I am hoping somebody will have some decent recommendations. Thanks in advance.

Have you heard about the new Sony phone: the Xperia Z3. It's already been released internationally. Sony is having a public event on Oct. 9th to formally announce it's US release. Verizon is rumored to be carrying a version of it as well. 5.2" screen, microSD slot which supports up to 128GB. No removable battery, although recent tests have given it some of the best battery life ratings ever tested; http://www.phonearena.com/news/All-bow-to-the-new-endurance-king-Sony-Xperia-Z3-scores-a-record-battery-life-for-its-category_id60922
That's more than twice the battery length of the S3 from that same test, so one battery life of the Z3 is probably similar to 2 normal batteries for the S3. The other perk from having a non-removable battery is being able to have a IP-68 rating, which is the highest level of water/dust protection available. The phone is essentially waterproof. Check out this cool unboxing video:
They are also releasing a compact version, with a 4.7" screen, but who knows if Verizon will carry it.

BattsNotIncld said:
Have you heard about the new Sony phone: the Xperia Z3. It's already been released internationally. Sony is having a public event on Oct. 9th to formally announce it's US release. Verizon is rumored to be carrying a version of it as well. 5.2" screen, microSD slot which supports up to 128GB. No removable battery, although recent tests have given it some of the best battery life ratings ever tested; http://www.phonearena.com/news/All-...-record-battery-life-for-its-category_id60922
That's more than twice the battery length of the S3 from that same test, so one battery life of the Z3 is probably similar to 2 normal batteries for the S3. The other perk from having a non-removable battery is being able to have a IP-68 rating, which is the highest level of water/dust protection available. The phone is essentially waterproof. Check out this cool unboxing video:
They are also releasing a compact version, with a 4.7" screen, but who knows if Verizon will carry it.
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I'm almost sure most of the phones they suggested probably will never be released on verizon. As nice as a lot of the newer phones are most of them have a slim chance to be released on vzw
From my Wicked S3 on SOKP

I have considered the Sony phones, just don't know how long it will be before they actually come to Verizon.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Free mobile app

They are solid phones. Just like nexus phones I have a bad feeling they never will be released on VZW
From my Wicked S3 on SOKP

I am sort of thinking I will hold on to my busted up S3 for a while. Nothing really has come out that is any better. About the closest thing would be an S4 or even S5. But I would have to root them and put CM11 on them as well. And I would have to get spare batteries (or use my battery pack) in order to get the same functionality that I currently have. That's really sad that in the two years since my S3 has come out, not one of the major companies has brought out a phone that fits my needs any better than my current phone. There is no feature that compels me to want to buy a new phone. The only thing that even comes close are the always listening/watching features of the new Moto X. But the battery, size, and lack of expandable memory pretty much kill it for me.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Free mobile app

har02052 said:
I am sort of thinking I will hold on to my busted up S3 for a while. Nothing really has come out that is any better. About the closest thing would be an S4 or even S5. But I would have to root them and put CM11 on them as well. And I would have to get spare batteries (or use my battery pack) in order to get the same functionality that I currently have. That's really sad that in the two years since my S3 has come out, not one of the major companies has brought out a phone that fits my needs any better than my current phone. There is no feature that compels me to want to buy a new phone. The only thing that even comes close are the always listening/watching features of the new Moto X. But the battery, size, and lack of expandable memory pretty much kill it for me.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Free mobile app
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Neither phone mentioned has an unlocked bootloader unless you find an S4 prior to being locked down. The S5 is rootable currently but that's it
From my Wicked S3 on SOKP

Right. I wasn't more specific. If I got those, I would have to root them and load a new rom which is next to impossible (or at least very difficult) right now. Might as well keep my S3. Easy to root.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Free mobile app

har02052 said:
Right. I wasn't more specific. If I got those, I would have to root them and load a new rom which is next to impossible (or at least very difficult) right now. Might as well keep my S3. Easy to root.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Free mobile app
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True. The roms are very few on either of those if any at all. And I kind of knew what you were getting at
From my Wicked S3 on SOKP

So I went into the store just to get the feel of some of the phones. I could probably get used to the 5.2 screen of the moto x. I think that I will just have to get 32gb and carry my battery pack. Our should I wait for the droid turbo?
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I saw the leak from the Droid twitter account. You might disagree but I think that is a good looking phone. I think I will wait for it and get it as long as there is at least a 32gb model.
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