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Note 5 or S7 Edge?

Hey guys, been a long time XDA user, looking for input. I have never owned a Samsung device so I am completely new here. I came from a LG G4 that I loved it but wireless charging just melts down after 30-60 days and starts refusing to charge wirelessly. After 6 replacements I am here. My last one also had wireless connection issues.
The S7 Edge looked to be the best 1-to-1 match with screen size/features so thats what I had my mind on. Verizon recommended we swap for a different device and offered me a Note 5 64gb (because of no SD storage). So the Note 5 should be here in a few days.
BUT my mind was focused on the S7 Edge so I just went out and bought a S7 Edge on impulse, full price (thinking I would sell the Note 5 to recoop my money).
After seeing and playing with both, now I am kind of torn. The rounded edges actually feel nice to scroll off of. I think the edge apps have already lost my interest. I used to use "Side Bar" as a quick launcher and eventually just stopped using it.
Being new to Samsung, I semi know about the SPen and some of its features. The Note 5 is also the same width as my G4, so size isn't a factor here. In fact because of the rounded edges, the S7 Edge feels narrower/smaller than my LG G4.
Is there really anything the Note 5 can't do that the S7 Edge can? Not really concerned with waterproof or SD card. How is the Note 5 processor? The SD820 is probably a little faster but both are plenty fast IMO.
I'd be interested in hearing any FORs and AGAINSTs. I can keep either device right now, what would you choose?

player911 said:
Hey guys, been a long time XDA user, looking for input. I have never owned a Samsung device so I am completely new here. I came from a LG G4 that I loved it but wireless charging just melts down after 30-60 days and starts refusing to charge wirelessly. After 6 replacements I am here. My last one also had wireless connection issues.
The S7 Edge looked to be the best 1-to-1 match with screen size/features so thats what I had my mind on. Verizon recommended we swap for a different device and offered me a Note 5 64gb (because of no SD storage). So the Note 5 should be here in a few days.
BUT my mind was focused on the S7 Edge so I just went out and bought a S7 Edge on impulse, full price (thinking I would sell the Note 5 to recoop my money).
After seeing and playing with both, now I am kind of torn. The rounded edges actually feel nice to scroll off of. I think the edge apps have already lost my interest. I used to use "Side Bar" as a quick launcher and eventually just stopped using it.
Being new to Samsung, I semi know about the SPen and some of its features. The Note 5 is also the same width as my G4, so size isn't a factor here. In fact because of the rounded edges, the S7 Edge feels narrower/smaller than my LG G4.
Is there really anything the Note 5 can't do that the S7 Edge can? Not really concerned with waterproof or SD card. How is the Note 5 processor? The SD820 is probably a little faster but both are plenty fast IMO.
I'd be interested in hearing any FORs and AGAINSTs. I can keep either device right now, what would you choose?
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Click to collapse
I ended up going with the S7 Edge because of the faster processor, better low light shots with the camera and larger battery. Surprisingly I like the curved screen witch is something I thought I wouldn't. The two phones are top notch so you can't really go wrong with either. My wife has my Note 5 because I really don't want to let it go and she likes it so it makes little sense to get rid of it. The S-Pen isn't of much use for me but I do like the larger screen and excellent camera. Depending on what the Note 6 turns out to be I might go with that but for now it's the edge for me.

Yeah for me it really boils down to pen and screen. I am kind of leaning toward keeping the Note 5 and returning the 7E. I just didn't know if I would lose any software features like themes or something.
I am finding my palms are also tapping the screen and doing stuff with the S7E when I am typing or browsing. I have a hard time holding it without the screen going crazy. I just switched hands and it posted this and opened my Messenger chat head. Lol.

to me expandable storage is big. I have Note 5, i am waiting for Note 6 with expandable storage to get. I would say the s-pen is good but not a big deal. I do like taking notes with s-pen.
Unless s-pen is a must, i think sd card and water resistant is big deal for everyday use.

32gb has always been fine for a mobile. I complained about no SD storage though, which is why they gave me the 64gb version.
The waterproofing is cool but I don't plan on having it in water. Underwater pics are cool though. I have a hauwei watch for pool fun.

player911 said:
Yeah for me it really boils down to pen and screen. I am kind of leaning toward keeping the Note 5 and returning the 7E. I just didn't know if I would lose any software features like themes or something.
I am finding my palms are also tapping the screen and doing stuff with the S7E when I am typing or browsing. I have a hard time holding it without the screen going crazy. I just switched hands and it posted this and opened my Messenger chat head. Lol.
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Themes will still be there, the only things you lose are the S-Pen related apps. I see what you mean about the accidental screen taps. I haven't used a case in a couple of days and it's pretty annoying especially when I'm trying to take a picture and open up the gallery. I had to return my Otterbox commuter because it kept ripping off my Zagg screen protectors. Hopefully my new case will be better when I get it tomorrow. It sounds like the Note is a better choice for you. I can always switch with my wife if I want.

I just wanted to chime in about picking between the note 5 and s7 edge. When I bought the note 5 last year, I had to live with no sd card and no removable battery. I can fast charge wireless and hard line as well. I don't really use the s pen as much as before. My previous phone, the note 3 i did. I dunno really, cause my wants and needs are different than everyone else. It some time for me to actually LOVE my new note 5, because I was used to having sdcard/removable battery on the note 3. The build quality is very nice on both phones. All metal, beautiful glass and both have marshnallow. My brother actually has a s7, he just got it a few ago and I bought my note 5 last year November.
I used to be a flash aholic on the note 3. We had recovery, roms and root. So after 2 years of being spoiled, I had to finally let go and move from that kind of want or need. Does that make sense? I realzied that I had give up the flashing game, because of the devices getting more difficult to Root. Specificllay Verizon and the Note series phones. So I when it was time to upgrade last year, I gave up the note 3, decided that I can live with the no sd card and non removable battery and said hello to pure awesome sexiness design of the note 5.
Nowadays, I dont find myself waiting on roms to be dropped. Constantly pressing f5 f5 f5 f5 and refresh to see when it dropped. But that was my choice. No more living with compromises, because a rom worked with this app and sor of didnt work with there other apps. If the s7 edge is constantly on your mind and boggling your curisoity, why not get one? From the few days I was able to play with my brother's s7. It feels nice in the hand, Smooth nice edges, good low light camera fast and snappy processor makes it smooth to operate.
Since I gave up on flashing roms, I just wanted a phone that I can use social media, so I can keep contact with my girlfriend. Facebook, instragram, snapchat, twitter, facebook messnger and facebook videocat oh and make phone calls/send text messages to her as well. I found that my note 5 can do these things with no problem what so ever. Well, sorry for being so long and best of luck on picking between the note 5 and s7 edge.

Yea I am thinking of keeping the note5 and returning the 7E. Memory and waterproofing aren't important to me. The Edge is starting to drive me crazy because you can't hold on to it without touching the edge screen. This causes other inputs to be unresponsive.

player911 said:
Yea I am thinking of keeping the note5 and returning the 7E. Memory and waterproofing aren't important to me. The Edge is starting to drive me crazy because you can't hold on to it without touching the edge screen. This causes other inputs to be unresponsive.
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I might be returning mine too and go back to the Note 5. I got my new case today and this one is screwing with my screen protector too. This is my 2nd edge and never had this much screen protector problems on the many phones I have had. Totally frustrating. With that said I think you are better off with your Note 5...

I owned a LG G2x that had a curved screen like the Edge7 and remember that the screen protector issue was a big one. I stopped using screen protectors years ago though. With the Edge7 I would be cautious but I never planned on using a SP.

Overall love

Yes, yes, it's possible to love a phone. Heck, you sleep next to it, don't you? Rate this thread to indicate your love for the Samsung Galaxy Note FE, all things considered. A higher rating indicates that the Samsung Galaxy Note FE is an incredible phone that you enjoy tremendously. You love it.
Then, drop a comment if you have anything to add!

It is simply the MOST beautiful thing... Sometimes I find myself just staring at it.
I need a life.

Estetically astonishing, an amazing swansong for the pre "infinity display" desing language at Samsung. If it weren't for all that crappy bloatware. If only I were brave enough to root it. If only i could have one N935F just released in some asian markets like Malaysia.

Much love
The FE just became available here in Manila so i quickly pounced on one. I really liked the Note 7 when it came out and was sorely disappointed when it ended so badly
This phone is magnificent, I have the N8 as well but the FE fits in my hand better and is easier for me to handle. Sort of the difference between an S7 and an S8 overall but very happy to add to my collection. This one is a real keeper here as resale is nil and barely anyone know about it.
Also important for me it's a dual SIM version!

Definite love
Great phone! Dimension, FP reader position, battery life are all to my liking. Top notch phone! Accessories are much cheaper too! lol!
Price of phone could have been slightly lower though.
4.5/5 for me.

note fe is very good, similar to note 8, the price is also affordable, if we talk about the hardware also still able to survive at least 2 or 3 more years (I think)

I just love it too, seriously. Although not being able to root it (for now I hope!) makes me a bit frustrated.. Overall, I agree that the price could have been a bit lower but it's a Note so that's quite understandable...
I'll keep it and keep loving it until there's a really more appealing phone released which I think, won't be released soon as this Infinity-whatever trend of Samsung of the newest devices is just awful to me..
I highly prefer my capacitive navbar and the 16:9 ratio lol

I'm considering buying one. But with shipping and import...that'll be at least 600 EUR, probably more towards 650. The Note8 is already sold at 750, even Dual-Sim. Is it worth shelling out that much (I actually only hate the S8/Note8 because of the rear-mounted FP sensor).

treysis said:
I'm considering buying one. But with shipping and import...that'll be at least 600 EUR, probably more towards 650. The Note8 is already sold at 750, even Dual-Sim. Is it worth shelling out that much (I actually only hate the S8/Note8 because of the rear-mounted FP sensor).
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The Note FE is the last of his kind, physical front home button, 16:9 ratio.
It's not a bad thing so I ordered one instead of the Note 8 even if price is almost the same.
This phone is made for the Fan only

Hm, I thought about ordering a few so as to minimize my costs. But looking at prices for Note8 on ebay, I doubt this will be a success, if you can buy a European dual-sim Note8 with local warranty for only 50-100 Euros more. Would really need someone who appreciates the front FP as much as I do.

i just traded my s7 with the fe. reasons:
1. i skipped s8 and newer ones because i really despise having to pickup the whole phone from table just to securely unlock it. i trust biometric as far more secure, accurate and convenient compared to password, pin or pattern. the fingerprint scanner must always in the front, ready on your command only by using 1 finger. i readily accept last year hardware performance for this, i really don't mind since they are already powerful enough
2. the design is simply gorgeous and i luv it for still giving my finger some space to grip it on landscape mode because i enjoy watching video on my phone quite a lot during travel/commute. newer phone designs barely give anything to grip
i really wish the design trend will reverse but if it doesn't i think this will be the last time i upgrade my phone. lol

The main issues for me are a) no AOSP/LOS/RR (can't stand Touchwiz or Samsung Experience), b) not much community/official/3rd party development/support, and c) I just can't find it anywhere near me or I would have bought it (despite the curvy edges and non-replaceable battery).

Bought the blue dual sim Note FE about 5 months ago. Always wanted a Note device but choosing this one over the newer models, is due to the consideration of the smaller size and the much more beautiful design (imo) the the front fingerprint sensor. Kinda disappointed that the custom scene is not big, but at this moment in time and considering how stable and good the phone has been so far, rooting it will be enough for me.
Reading though about losing some samsung apps is worrisome though. Apart from the samsung pay (don't care at all as I don't pay through the phone), knox, what else won't work after rooting? Is there a list somewhere?

Feregorn said:
Bought the blue dual sim Note FE about 5 months ago. Always wanted a Note device but choosing this one over the newer models, is due to the consideration of the smaller size and the much more beautiful design (imo) the the front fingerprint sensor. Kinda disappointed that the custom scene is not big, but at this moment in time and considering how stable and good the phone has been so far, rooting it will be enough for me.
Reading though about losing some samsung apps is worrisome though. Apart from the samsung pay (don't care at all as I don't pay through the phone), knox, what else won't work after rootinng? Is there a list somewhere?
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Hi i was thinking the same as you till month ago . But believe me no need at all , first now we got Android 9 with all new look. Second you can install rootless substratum with andromeda , you will find many themes.
Third now there are many apps that will cover your needs instead of rooting . Just dig in xda
Finally Samsung firmware is very complicated. I used to root my note 3 . It was rootable . It works ok but with some bugs . But now i think that any custom rom will give you a hard time fixing bugs especially with latest version of samsung note .
And all custom rom will not be friendly with s pen features.

nesoor1230 said:
Hi i was thinking the same as you till month ago . But believe me no need at all , first now we got Android 9 with all new look. Second you can install rootless substratum with andromeda , you will find many themes.
Third now there are many apps that will cover your needs instead of rooting . Just dig in xda
Finally Samsung firmware is very complicated. I used to root my note 3 . It was rootable . It works ok but with some bugs . But now i think that any custom rom will give you a hard time fixing bugs especially with latest version of samsung note .
And all custom rom will not be friendly with s pen features.
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Click to collapse
Thank you for your response. The biggest reason that I want root is to install an ad blocker like adaway and ad-free YouTube as ads can be really annoying to me. But I will surely check the substratum that you mentioned.
Sent from my SM-N935F using Tapatalk

No desire to switch phones

I'll preface this by saying I'm a habitual phone changer. Typically I keep a phone for no longer than 3 months or so before I really want to switch to something else. Ridiculous I know, but generally something about the phone really bothers me, or another phone looks so incredible that I need to try it out. For the first time in a long time, probably years to be completely honest, I don't feel the need to switch at all. I'm fully happy with this phone. I have a 6p to test new Android versions (piece of garbage phone), but otherwise I'm totally satisfied. Anyone else still love this phone, or are you aching to switch?

Still love my phone. Will probably upgrade to the S9, depending on what the specs etc. are when launched. If I'm not impressed by the specs, I'll stay with S7 Edge

I'd be tempted by a note 7 Fe dual sim if they existed . Apart from that still happy.

termdj said:
Still love my phone. Will probably upgrade to the S9, depending on what the specs etc. are when launched. If I'm not impressed by the specs, I'll stay with S7 Edge
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My thoughts exactly! S8 and S8+ have the silly fingerprint position and worse battery. Retina scan is the biggest gimmick - less secure, and more annoying to use. Rumour is the fingerprint scanner will be underneath the virtual home button in the S9 ,that would be awesome!

I really loved my Note 7 and the s7e feels a bit of a step back so I've been itching for something new for a while. I was looking forward to the Note 8 but I just can't justify the cost especially since the only thing in it I really want is the telephoto lens. I'm hoping the S9 has the same dual camera setup. If not who knows? Maybe the Note 9...

hitchb said:
I really loved my Note 7 and the s7e feels a bit of a step back so I've been itching for something new for a while. I was looking forward to the Note 8 but I just can't justify the cost especially since the only thing in it I really want is the telephoto lens. I'm hoping the S9 has the same dual camera setup. If not who knows? Maybe the Note 9...
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I never got to try the note 7. What was the major diff that made it feel so much better?

Bigger screen and s pen and more ram I think and faster but not alot bigger in size as I have a dummy one which I used to check the size . Correct me if anything else as I didn't own one myself...

crixley said:
I never got to try the note 7. What was the major diff that made it feel so much better?
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The performance wasn't any better, but just the feel of the phone in your hand was smoother. The curved screen didn't go so far down that you felt like you needed a case to help hold it. The straight lines and larger screen were also a plus. The Note 7 just felt more refined in the hand. For all the grief it gets I also got a lot of use out of the iris recognition too.

hitchb said:
The performance wasn't any better, but just the feel of the phone in your hand was smoother. The curved screen didn't go so far down that you felt like you needed a case to help hold it. The straight lines and larger screen were also a plus. The Note 7 just felt more refined in the hand. For all the grief it gets I also got a lot of use out of the iris recognition too.
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Solid answer, thanks! I really wish I had gotten to try one

If I could find a dual sim note 7 I'd think about it .

crixley said:
I'll preface this by saying I'm a habitual phone changer. Typically I keep a phone for no longer than 3 months or so before I really want to switch to something else. Ridiculous I know, but generally something about the phone really bothers me, or another phone looks so incredible that I need to try it out. For the first time in a long time, probably years to be completely honest, I don't feel the need to switch at all. I'm fully happy with this phone. I have a 6p to test new Android versions (piece of garbage phone), but otherwise I'm totally satisfied. Anyone else still love this phone, or are you aching to switch?
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same here!
I use to change phones often, but I got stuck with this one.. because everything on this phone is still on pair with new devices, and everything works perfect without any problems.
Whenever try some other phone, I always back to this one...
I will eventualy change it with note 8 probably

Should I buy one now

Hi All,
I was wondering what you guys think of the phone now 8 months down the line. I am getting this at a good price around £650 for a good condition used phone on ebay. I was wondering if you guys think most of its problems have been fixed by now.
Just to give you a background, I currently have a note 9 and frankly I am very happy with this phone but it is old now and I am itching to upgrade to something newer, primarily for the cameras and 120hz refresh rate. I did buy the S21 ultra on pre-order but was really disappointed with the camera performance as I found the images my exynos variant produced to be very soft and noisy and not as sharp/clear as my note 9 and overall the phone felt like a big compromise (no s-pen, no sd card, no headphone jack) after paying £1300, so I sent it back. The camera and screen are the primary reasons for me to upgrade and I expect at least decent battery life (maybe 6-7 hours SOT with youtube abd browsing). I do use the S-Pen every now and then and think it would be a good to have. I know the note 20 ultra doesnt support WQHD+ and 120hz at the same time but at the price im getting it at i think this is a compromise i am willing to make since i mostly use my phone at FHD+ anyway and I can barely tell the difference.
I know there was talk about the exynos variant being bad when compared to the SD 865+ version but frankly I am not a gamer and dont need my phone to be ultra powerful. But what i would like to know from you guys is whether the software updates over the past 8 months have fixed most of the issues with battery life and camera performance. Those of you coming from the s10 range or the note 10+ / Note 9 etc. How would you say the camera is on the Note 20 U? Do you guys think its a good buy now? Or should I just give it a miss and hang on to the note 9 till they stop the security patches? Any advise is appreciated.

I have a mate who upgraded from the Note 9 to the Note 20 Ultra. He was VERY impressed with the differences...
He has the Exynos variant but when there is no other phones to compare but what you already have he's happy...
It all comes down to you, go to a store, play with a demo version and make up your mind.

I've upgraded from S10e Exynos with 4,5 screen on time maximum and terrible idle battery drain to Note 20 Ultra Snapdragon. First week was thinking to give it back because it was too big for me and those rounded edges always made me typos. Then I've get used to it, set the keyboard paddings from edges and finally bought nice case (I never used any cases before) and now I'm totally happy with it. I as far as I've read it's almost impossible to get 7-8 screen on time on Exynos variant. I got around 7 on my Snapdragon version but never tested it with gaming so I can not tell yet how good the battery is. I can tell that Qualcomm modem is much better in sense of keeping good connection and speed and very good keeping battery in idle state. Considering the camera - it's much better that in my old S10e ofcourse but I don't use it often so can't say I care about it much. What I love about my new Note 20 ultra Snapdragon is I've rooted it to tweak some small things here and there and now totally feel it's mine. I've rooted my past phones around 5 years ago last time.
Not sure if anything I said will help you but if you have any questions I would be glad to answer.

Thanks guys really useful. As mentioned I don't really need a new phone as my current phone does pretty much what I need it to. But I am itching to upgrade and I don't want to end up being stuck with something that I feel is not as good as my current phone. I currently average 4-5 hours screen on time on my 2 year old note 9 which I think is good for an old phone so hoping to get more. The S21U was good battery wise I got 7 hours SOT with 10% remaining. But the cameras were a let down for the price. I might just wait a couple of months and pick one used if they fix the camera with software updates as the price difference doesn't seem that much like a barely used S21U is going for around 850 on ebay so might be worth the extra 200 vs the note 20 ultra. Especially because I heard a lot of bad things about the n20u battery in particular.

Hi, @eldrid
I upgraded (downgraded considering the cost/storage, lol) from the Note9 (512GB) to the Note20 Ultra (128GB) with Android 11/One UI 3.1.
Have you considered replacing the battery in your Note9? Maybe have the battery replaced and purchase the N20U?
I don't use the camera much, but hopefully one of the forum members will give you some feedback on the N9 vs N20U cameras.
I can hear the Note20 Ultra camera *rattle* but I think this is normal??
If you purchase the N20, you may not want to update the phone to Android 11 (scoped storage, bugs galore, etc...).
I enjoy using the N9 more than the N20U because of the OS and the apps function without issue.
I detest Android 11, ahem, and think it contributes to my attitude of the N20U. N9 is the Beast!

I haven't had note 9 earlier but for me the note 20 ultra is perfect.
We get 1080p with 120hz (sure only 1080p but battery friendly and do you even notice higher res on regular basis?)
Sdcard slot, perfect for pictures, movies, big files and so on, also very easy to swap. (cloud exist but what about vacation or if u got limited data)
Very good cameras, still one of the best out there.
Very good performance with snapdragon 865+, even the exynos one is good. Recent updates have made it better than release version.
S-pen in a slot, no ugly weird case and all functions works perfectly.
The design is also very modern and future proof, I mean the front is almost all display.
People even speculate that this could be the last note ever, so if I were u, I would really consider note 20u if u liked your note 9 and want something better.

I've had my Note 20 Ultra Exynos version since launch, and it's a lot better now than it was when it first came out in both battery life & performance, I also don't game on phone's so it's been more than fine for me.
The camera has also been on point for me as well I've not been disappointed with any pictures or videos I've taken with it.
For 650 quid i think it's well worth it for what you get.

Thanks a ton guys for the honest advice. I finally picked an almost new one for £650 on ebay. They offer a 30 day return so fingers crossed i hope it works out. I won't be selling my note 9 just yet so I will have some time to compare side by side and see what it's like. I am sure it's an upgrade in many regards. But the three key things for me are 1)screen and I'm sure that's great I don't use wqhd and will be perfectly happy with the adaptive 1080 120hz. 2)The cameras... This is one area I am not sure how it will be... This is a very subjective area but I like my images to be sharp and I noticed on the S21U the images were soft and fuzzy not crisp like on the note 9. And 3) is battery life... I still get around 5 hours from the note 9 which is great so I hope to get at least that much. Will keep you guys posted on how it goes over the next few days. I feel like @650 there won't be much to complain about. I was really upset with the s21 ultra as I had paid full price for it and it (£1300) and it felt like a downgrade. Seems like the more modern Samsung phones while powerful are compromising on the basics and are not what they used to be 2 years ago.

Finally got the note20u and frankly I am quite happy with it. I am getting pretty good SOT and plus i used Bluetooth headphones for at least an hour. Considering that I think the battery life is good. Also the camera software seems to be ironed out and the image sharpness is much better than the current image quality on the S21U 1st pic is from note 20u and 2nd from s21u. Overall I think it was a good buy. I would never recommend anyone buying a Samsung phone at launch as the software is very unpolished and you pay a huge amount for an unfinished product. Comparing the experience i have with this nearly new note 20u for 650 is great compared to the ****ty experience the s21u offers for £1200 plus no sd card support or charger in the box. Very good value overall at £650

I upgraded from my still pristine Note 9 and found it a very worthy successor. From the enhanced Dex and S-pen features to the improved cameras, the Note 20 Ultra has provided me with a great user experience. Given Samsung's quest for becoming more -like and shedding features left and right, the Note 20 Ultra is the closest to what the Note line once was: the no holds barred, everything but the kitchen sink, no compromises, Note. I don't know if there is a Note 21 Ultra in the works and if there is it will probably include less features than the Note 20 Ultra offers.

Medevac1 said:
I upgraded from my still pristine Note 9 and found it a very worthy successor. From the enhanced Dex and S-pen features to the improved cameras, the Note 20 Ultra has provided me with a great user experience. Given Samsung's quest for becoming more -like and shedding features left and right, the Note 20 Ultra is the closest to what the Note line once was: the no holds barred, everything but the kitchen sink, no compromises, Note. I don't know if there is a Note 21 Ultra in the works and if there is it will probably include less features than the Note 20 Ultra offers.
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Absolutely agree. Probably why i was finding it hard to part with my note 9 as well. What a great 0 compromise device. I really hate how Samsung were originally the anti apple and a premium alternative for those that didn't want to chain themselves to apple. But now they're becoming more like apple taking away our choice.
Rumours are that there will be a watered down fan edition only this year and that the s-pen toting phone is going to be the fold from now on. If its true its a poor farewell to the note. I say they should bring back the headphone jack, sd card and pack the box with goodies. Make the whole experience of buying a premium flagship feel premium again.

eldrid said:
Absolutely agree. Probably why i was finding it hard to part with my note 9 as well. What a great 0 compromise device. I really hate how Samsung were originally the anti apple and a premium alternative for those that didn't want to chain themselves to apple. But now they're becoming more like apple taking away our choice.
Rumours are that there will be a watered down fan edition only this year and that the s-pen toting phone is going to be the fold from now on. If its true its a poor farewell to the note. I say they should bring back the headphone jack, sd card and pack the box with goodies. Make the whole experience of buying a premium flagship premium again.
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Click to collapse
The 10+ was the last Note before Q. After Q things started going south and 11 is even worse.
Between Android and Samsung's "improvements" it's been a dismal year.
Everything's coming up psuedo Apples... and I mean that in the most derogatory way.
As for the Fold series it has been a self made disaster for Samsung. Overpriced and unreliable.
Samsung, you do know the definition of insanity don't you? Apparently not.

Late to the party here but I'm happy with my N20 Ultra 5G Snapdragon soc I imported from Hong Kong.
I wouldn't of been keen to buy a used phone from ebay due to the amount that get imei locked a few weeks / months after receiving it.

BandOfBrothers1 said:
I wouldn't of been keen to buy a used phone from ebay due to the amount that get imei locked a few weeks / months after receiving it.
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How can you avoid that from happening 100%?
Is it that common?

blackhawk said:
How can you avoid that from happening 100%?
Is it that common?
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It's something I've come across way too often throughout the years on forums.
A person sells a phone on ebay and then fraudulently claims it lost or stolen.
Auction Sites need to tighten up and introduce even more protection for the buyer as well as the seller.

BandOfBrothers1 said:
It's something I've come across way too often throughout the years on forums.
A person sells a phone on ebay and then fraudulently claims it lost or stolen.
Auction Sites need to tighten up and introduce even more protection for the buyer as well as the seller.
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Click to collapse
Doing that in the USA be incurring multiple federal felonies.

BandOfBrothers1 said:
Late to the party here but I'm happy with my N20 Ultra 5G Snapdragon soc I imported from Hong Kong.
I wouldn't of been keen to buy a used phone from ebay due to the amount that get imei locked a few weeks / months after receiving it.
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Damn didn't know that happens. I got mine from a business seller with 100% ratings so looks like hes been at it for a while with no issues. He claims the phones are customer returns from the official Samsung store and would barely have any usage if at all. And everything looked the part it seemed brand spanking new, scratchless and even no signs wear or dust in the usb c port. Also he had a whole batch of 7-8 to sell so everything sounded legit. Let's hope everything works out well.
On a separate note. I thought id use the phone without a screen protector for a few days while the tempered glass one I ordered arrives and so removed the factory one. After a day or so i have already noticed a couple of micro scratches on the screen visible at certain angles. This is with careful use at home. I feel like this whole gorilla glass thing is just market hype.

blackhawk said:
Doing that in the USA be incurring multiple federal felonies.
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I wouldn't worry about it too much. The only reason someone would do that is to be malicious and most people are not. I doubt the seller has a personal vendetta against you. He got his money and will move on.
I have had the N20U since release and have no issues and at this point is a good as it gets functionally.

Question Pixel 7 pro to replace my S22U , am I crazy?

Hello I received a confirmation from my usual shop that the S23U will be "at least" 200$ more than the S22U when it was released, which is way too much for me. So now I am contemplating (again) the Pixel 7 Pro . Am I crazy to be willing to replace my 1 year old S22U with a Pixel 7 pro ? Anyone here did the same and is happy or regret the move ? Also some practical question: can you see briefly a message when receiving one on the AOD like on Samsung

I like my 7 Pro very much for the Pixel ONLY features like call screening. I really don't care about cameras. I do NOT like how Samsung forces its native apps and BIXBY down a persons throat. However, you are asking about a good powerful phone that I imagine you like and that is ONLY one year old! Now if it was 3 or more years old I would say to get the 7 Pro. But at one year old I am not sure what you might gain? In fact you might lose a few things you like while gaining a few you don't have now. So YMMV.

Depends on what you need out of a phone. If you didn't use any of the s22u features like 10x optical zoom, the pen, the ability to connect to more than one Bluetooth device/speaker simultaneously ,multi window multitasking, screen mirroring, the far superior game playability..... then the 7pro is an awesome alternative. Once all the bugs were ironed out that is. It does all the little things better than any other android phone. The voice recognition on it is unbelievable. Much less bloatware. I can't imagine wanting another home outside of the galaxy ultra phines. And I went from an s22 ultra to a z fold 4 (which I had for maybe a month) to the 7 pro. Obviously I'm getting the S23u but that just cause I've got some weird mental condition.

vegetaleb said:
Also some practical question: can you see briefly a message when receiving one on the AOD like on Samsung
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No. This was annoying coming from OnePlus where they integrated full screen message previews into the AOD. The Pixel just takes you to the lock screen when you get a message. I got a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic a week ago and I'm loving it for the ability to preview my messages without having to touch my phone. Didn't realize how much I missed that from the OnePlus.

chetly968 said:
I've got some weird sickness.
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Lol I think many of us here can relate to that sickness. I'm fighting with myself about the S23U too.

EtherealRemnant said:
No. This was annoying coming from OnePlus where they integrated full screen message previews into the AOD. The Pixel just takes you to the lock screen when you get a message. I got a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic a week ago and I'm loving it for the ability to preview my messages without having to touch my phone. Didn't realize how much I missed that from the OnePlus.
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Did you try custom roms?
I wonder if they add this option

vegetaleb said:
Did you try custom roms?
I wonder if they add this option
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I haven't tried them yet. Honestly have been pretty happy with my Pixel and I hate the idea of having to wipe my phone since I'm on the beta.

Why won't you just skip the S23 and save your money for the S24?

heinhuiz said:
Why won't you just skip the S23 and save your money for the S24?
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Like someone else said , it's a sickness to change a phone every year
I am a bit tired of samsung OneOs , it does have negatives and the Ultra body is beginning to be very weighty.

I have had this dude but replacing note 10+ with Pixel 6 pro , I believe I would badly miss the SPen ... Apart from the pen as lo g as I am able to connect my Galaxy watch to the pixel I dont see any other inconvenience...

yurais said:
to connect my Galaxy watch to the pixel
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You can definitely do this. There is even a modded Samsung Health Monitor APK to get all those features if you use them.

EtherealRemnant said:
You can definitely do this. There is even a modded Samsung Health Monitor APK to get all those features if you use them.
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Still will miss the SPen and its air gestures and onScreen functions, use it daily...
I have both phones... Just can't switch to the pixel. Even though it is damn good, fast and running Android 13.
I will probably sell both and get S22U

yurais said:
Still will miss the SPen and its air gestures and onScreen functions, use it daily...
I have both phones... Just can't switch to the pixel. Even though it is damn good, fast and running Android 13.
I will probably sell both and get S22U
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I'm doubtful I'll even use the S-Pen if I get the S23U. Note 5 was the last Samsung I had and I used the S-Pen hardly ever.
I wanted the S23U to have a modem with updated bands that the Pixel 7 Pro doesn't support (lower 3.45GHz n77 for AT&T as well as n26 and n70 for Dish) but word is the S23U doesn't support n70 either so I'll probably just keep my Pixel unless Samsung offers a really attractive price or trade in (seems unlikely).

yurais said:
Still will miss the SPen and its air gestures and onScreen functions, use it daily...
I have both phones... Just can't switch to the pixel. Even though it is damn good, fast and running Android 13.
I will probably sell both and get S22U
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm doubtful that I'll even use the S-Pen if I get the S23U. Note 5 was the last Samsung I had and I used the S-Pen hardly ever.
I wanted the S23U to have a modem with updated bands that the Pixel 7 Pro doesn't support (lower 3.45GHz n77 for AT&T as well as n26 and n70 for Dish) but word is the S23U doesn't support n70 either so I'll probably just keep my Pixel unless Samsung offers a really attractive price or trade in (seems unlikely).

vegetaleb said:
Hello I received a confirmation from my usual shop that the S23U will be "at least" 200$ more than the S22U when it was released, which is way too much for me. So now I am contemplating (again) the Pixel 7 Pro . Am I crazy to be willing to replace my 1 year old S22U with a Pixel 7 pro ? Anyone here did the same and is happy or regret the move ? Also some practical question: can you see briefly a message when receiving one on the AOD like on Samsung
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Click to collapse
Hi. I made the same change that you indicate and very happy.
For me this Pixel 7 pro is a great phone.

vegetaleb said:
Like someone else said , it's a sickness to change a phone every year
I am a bit tired of samsung OneOs , it does have negatives and the Ultra body is beginning to be very weighty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I went with the 7 Pro. I had the 22 Ultra for almost two weeks and just could not get used to the boxy feeling and overly curved screen. I had a 21 Ultra before that for almost two years and a Note before that so I was getting really tired of OneUi as well. I'm very happy with the 7 Pro and what I paid for it. The 23 Ultra is too much like the 22 so that's off the board for me.

I don't have an ultra but I do have an s22 plus. I also have the Pixel 7 Pro. Between the two I use the Pixel now almost excellent and I don't miss the Samsung or it's gimmick features.
Everyone has a different opinion and use case. The s pen is an advantage in certain situations if you don't have a tablet and need to sign legal documents. Otherwise on a small screen I don't see any real use for it.
The edge panels and Dex are things I will never use because I have other devices that fill in the gap.
I really hate all the bloatware on Samsung devices since time immemorial. Apps that you can't disable or uninstall, 3rd party apps preinstalled and of course the numerous duplicate apps. Then there is Bixby. Completely unnecessary and useless but you don't have a choice to get rid of it.
Despite all of the hate I have towards those things I like Samsung and the integration between PC, tablet, phone and watch. Very similar to Apple. I like Samsung back ups. I like some Samsung apps. I like the hardware on Samsung probably the best of any Android device out there.
So I am always torn on Samsung devices.
Considering the price of the Pixel 7 Pro and features it has everything I need and nothing I don't. Sure, there are a few Google apps I could live without but in general it is as close to software perfection that you can get on Android. Although the hardware is not as good as the Ultra it is really good for the cost. I also like the direction Google is taking with Tensor. Less about maximum performance that most phones throttle anyway and more about sustained performance and AI.
I have felt the 7 Pro is really good in terms of stability and reliability compared to previous Pixels which is a huge factor for me. The cameras are some of the best, certainly the best I have used on a smartphone, the screen is calibrated perfectly and just an absolute pleasure. The battery life is good enough and performance has been seamless. The UI and animations super smooth and pleasing. The modem to my surprise has been excellent.
I got this phone on sale and at less than the cost of the regular s22 MSRP it is simply hard to beat. Add Pixel exclusive features and feature updates and fast updates and it is one of the best phones out there.
Samsung s23 ultra will have better hardware for sure but does that translate into a better user experience is something only each of us can decide. I too, am extremely tempted by the s23 ultra but the cost of that phone is pretty crazy to me. Almost double what I paid for my Pixel 7 Pro and I can say with certainty that it is not double the phone!

robbbzilla said:
I really hate all the bloatware on Samsung devices since time immemorial. Apps that you can't disable or uninstall, 3rd party apps preinstalled and of course the numerous duplicate apps. Then there is Bixby. Completely unnecessary and useless but you don't have a choice to get rid of it.
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So do I but that can be dealt with using by using ADBAppControl.
Can't remove bloatware is no longer a thing.

hand-filer said:
So do I but that can be dealt with using by using ADBAppControl.
Can't remove bloatware is no longer a thing.
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Well it is hard to know what can be removed and what will mess up the OS. Can you remove Bixby or some other Samsung software without causing issues? I have seen lists that say what is safe to remove and they conflict each other.
It would be nicer if Samsung simply allowed you to choose at setup what apps you want installed and what you don't without forcing your hand or hacking the OS. Just my opinion.

S22U to P7P would be more like moving sideways. Definitely not an upgrade, but not necessarily a downgrade either.
If i were you, i would just see what world offer in next 6 months instead of spending the money now.