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been playing with my pixel 3 xl for 3 hours now non-stop. i have to admit, this is damn good phone. the UI is very snappy. i have yet to encounter any lag. the screen is very good, it's as good or dare i say a little better than my iphone xs max. been playing around with the camera, and it is as advertised. it's so easy to take a great photo. you just point and shoot and google's algorithm works its magic in the background. i havent tested the video part yet. i really like the feel of the back of the phone. that glass that has a very soft matte feel feels great. i turned off the active edge, not a fan of that. i'm currently using 2.2gb of 4gb ram with 6 apps opened in background. i dont forsee many ram issues. but you never know, as hardware ages then issues do tend to pop up. the notch is a non-issue for me after always looking at iphone's notch. but i do see why lowering the screen down to the bottom of the notch and keeping the real-estate above it all black with just the icons in the black would be appealing. chrome does that very thing if you are in the google app and go to a site from the app. and it looks pretty good. all in all i gotta give google props. in my opinion this is the best pixel phone ever made.
What about brightness compared to the XS Max?
lensgrabber said:
What about brightness compared to the XS Max?
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Click to collapse
it is not as bright at max settings as the xs max. but then again i'm inside at night and the pixel is plenty bright. we will see how it fairs outside in direct sunlight. but to be honest it doesnt seem like it will be much of an issue. it's more of a bragging point for the iphone than an issue.
freebee269 said:
it is not as bright at max settings as the xs max. but then again i'm inside at night and the pixel is plenty bright. we will see how it fairs outside in direct sunlight. but to be honest it doesnt seem like it will be much of an issue. it's more of a bragging point for the iphone than an issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's odd cause my 3xl actually seems maybe a bit brighter than max. I'm also in a dark room.. hoping that maybe my iPhone is just throttling brightness so to speak. iPhones usually get brighter in daylight, at least if you have auto brightness on
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
freebee269 said:
it is not as bright at max settings as the xs max. but then again i'm inside at night and the pixel is plenty bright. we will see how it fairs outside in direct sunlight. but to be honest it doesnt seem like it will be much of an issue. it's more of a bragging point for the iphone than an issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pure+ said:
That's odd cause my 3xl actually seems maybe a bit brighter than max. I'm also in a dark room.. hoping that maybe my iPhone is just throttling brightness so to speak. iPhones usually get brighter in daylight, at least if you have auto brightness on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was curious if you guys have auto brightness on because the pixel phones get brighter with auto brightness turned off
I have auto brightness on both. I'll put something in here tomorrow when I get both into the daylight
bsg411 said:
I was curious if you guys have auto brightness on because the pixel phones get brighter with auto brightness turned off
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Pure+ said:
That's odd cause my 3xl actually seems maybe a bit brighter than max. I'm also in a dark room.. hoping that maybe my iPhone is just throttling brightness so to speak. iPhones usually get brighter in daylight, at least if you have auto brightness on
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
iPhone does not have an auto brightness. In general, iPhone looks good outdoors.
iPhone definitely does have auto brightness lol. They just moved the setting to accessibility
NICEGYPT said:
iPhone does not have an auto brightness. In general, iPhone looks good outdoors.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Nice to hear people with the iPhone XS Max review this Pixel 3 XL, and I mean real people, not professional YouTube people.
I'm a Nexus / Pixel fan myself, going back to the Nexus-One, and waiting in line for the Nexus-S.
But I gotta admit, playing with the XS Max at best Buy couple different time recently, man was I impressed with that phone, Great screen. Love how it's almost bezeless, with the display taking up the entire phone, and no chin. And it was SMOOTH and FAST. But...iOS, I just cannot get comfortable with iOS. Last iPhone I had was the iPhone 7 Plus, and iOS 10 just was not a fun experience. Being so used to stock Android phones over the years.
But man the iPhone XS Max had me thinking of switching
Anyways, my white Pixel 3 XL came in today, and I like it. Currently been using the Pixel 2 XL.
Yeah, Mrs Crab has a coolaid device and I can see the attraction, in my mind it's not bad so much as an answer to a question I never asked. Hard to get fair comparisons though because fanboyism is huge nowadays and even people like me that are willing to give the other side a look have a bias thats going to go one way or another. It was interesting to see the video out recently with the YouTube phone reviewers in a room in Vegas and the one guy asked which phone they actually had in their pocket for personal use. There were Pixel 2 XLs, iphones, nothing else. Marquees had one of each. No other brand was represented, no Samsung, no Oneplus, etc.
Pure+ said:
iPhone definitely does have auto brightness lol. They just moved the setting to accessibility
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol I did not even know that
Zorachus said:
Nice to hear people with the iPhone XS Max review this Pixel 3 XL, and I mean real people, not professional YouTube people.
I'm a Nexus / Pixel fan myself, going back to the Nexus-One, and waiting in line for the Nexus-S.
But I gotta admit, playing with the XS Max at best Buy couple different time recently, man was I impressed with that phone, Great screen. Love how it's almost bezeless, with the display taking up the entire phone, and no chin. And it was SMOOTH and FAST. But...iOS, I just cannot get comfortable with iOS. Last iPhone I had was the iPhone 7 Plus, and iOS 10 just was not a fun experience. Being so used to stock Android phones over the years.
But man the iPhone XS Max had me thinking of switching
Anyways, my white Pixel 3 XL came in today, and I like it. Currently been using the Pixel 2 XL.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also have both phones to compare. I really like both iOS and Android, but I have to admit that I like Android a little more because of the freedom to install any apk I want and split screen apps. IMO, the only thing that the iPhone XS Max has over the Pixel, is better sound from the speakers. Last night I started a movie on Netflix(on my Pixel) and I thought that the top speaker wasn't even working. The bottom speaker is so much louder than the top speaker, it sounds like all of the sound is coming from the bottom speaker. You don't really get a sense that you have 2 front facing speakers. I watched the same video on my iPhone and it sounds great. Other than that, I like both phones equally.
lyall29 said:
I also have both phones to compare. I really like both iOS and Android, but I have to admit that I like Android a little more because of the freedom to install any apk I want and split screen apps. IMO, the only thing that the iPhone XS Max has over the Pixel, is better sound from the speakers. Last night I started a movie on Netflix(on my Pixel) and I thought that the top speaker wasn't even working. The bottom speaker is so much louder than the top speaker, it sounds like all of the sound is coming from the bottom speaker. You don't really get a sense that you have 2 front facing speakers. I watched the same video on my iPhone and it sounds great. Other than that, I like both phones equally.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay I thought the exact same thing about the speakers and thought I might be a little crazy because nearly every single review on YouTube raves about the speakers. My iPhone speakers, at least to me, blow my P3XL speakers out of the water. Same thing with the top speaker as well, it sounds like it’s barely even on. So much for “40% louder”
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Pure+ said:
Okay I thought the exact same thing about the speakers and thought I might be a little crazy because nearly every single review on YouTube raves about the speakers. My iPhone speakers, at least to me, blow my P3XL speakers out of the water. Same thing with the top speaker as well, it sounds like it’s barely even on. So much for “40% louder”
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not happy to see that you noticed it also...I was hoping my device was defective. It's not only the volume difference but it's also muffled, like everyone speaking has a spoonful of peanut butter in their mouths. I think I'm still going to keep the phone, because I like everything else. I also use headphones most of the time anyway.
lyall29 said:
I'm not happy to see that you noticed it also...I was hoping my device was defective. It's not only the volume difference but it's also muffled, like everyone speaking has a spoonful of peanut butter in their mouths. I think I'm still going to keep the phone, because I like everything else. I also use headphones most of the time anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah that’s my exact experience too unfortunately. It seems like the just too much bass/vibrato going on with the audio. I can feel the phone vibrating the sound better than I can hear clearly what’s coming through the speakers. I’m also keeping my phone cause hopefully it’s a software deal and can be fixed (not that it ever will) and my iPhone is my Daily driver now anyway because where I work we are heavily integrated with apple, not to mention the dual sim e sim feature when it comes out will be awesome for my work line and having both numbers on one device.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
freebee269 said:
been playing with my pixel 3 xl for 3 hours now non-stop. i have to admit, this is damn good phone. the UI is very snappy. i have yet to encounter any lag. the screen is very good, it's as good or dare i say a little better than my iphone xs max. been playing around with the camera, and it is as advertised. it's so easy to take a great photo. you just point and shoot and google's algorithm works its magic in the background. i havent tested the video part yet. i really like the feel of the back of the phone. that glass that has a very soft matte feel feels great. i turned off the active edge, not a fan of that. i'm currently using 2.2gb of 4gb ram with 6 apps opened in background. i dont forsee many ram issues. but you never know, as hardware ages then issues do tend to pop up. the notch is a non-issue for me after always looking at iphone's notch. but i do see why lowering the screen down to the bottom of the notch and keeping the real-estate above it all black with just the icons in the black would be appealing. chrome does that very thing if you are in the google app and go to a site from the app. and it looks pretty good. all in all i gotta give google props. in my opinion this is the best pixel phone ever made.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is the battery life?
Jay01 said:
How is the battery life?
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i dont really know yet. i've only had it for 1 day. cant get a good picture of how good or bad it is in 1 day. i'll get back with you after a few days of using it.
Jay01 said:
How is the battery life?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah mine won’t end up being a daily driver for a while if it gets to at all so I can’t comment on that either
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
It takes a few days to settle down
It is bright enough for me !!
Looking For Real World, Hands On Comparisons From Users Who Have Owned Both Devices.
I've read a few 4 XL reviews, but I rarely trust them anymore as it always seems real world user reviews here are quite different from the online reviews.
Since I am still running a 2 XL, rooted, EX kernel, TWRP, and Magisk, factory image though, I am hoping to get several actual users testimonies here from those who have / had a 2 XL and currently have a 4 XL.
My 2 XL is still plenty fast and really all I need, but wanting to see how much of a jump up the 4 XL really is from the 2XL to see if it's worth the $$$, as I know a lot of 2 XL owners waiting to hear what users think of the 4 XL.
I realize it will take a little time until a lot of folks have the 4 XL in their hands (1st batch ships in 3 days) , but I think the real user comparisons will be worth the wait!
Thanks in advance for the reviews and comparisons.
I've got the Taimen and am about to fire up my Flame here in a bit. First things I am going to do are photo comparisons.
I can tell you now, just looking at it while it is on the charger (and the charger in the box has the same specs as the charger I got with my Taimen, as well as the extra one I bought after I got my Taimen. So this one stays in the box ) - I love the smooth back. I got the Just black version, same as my Taimen also.
Thanks for starting this, I'll post back with more as I start using it.
andy6685 said:
Looking For Real World, Hands On Comparisons From Users Who Have Owned Both Devices.
I've read a few 4 XL reviews, but I rarely trust them anymore as it always seems real world user reviews here are quite different from the online reviews.
Since I am still running a 2 XL, rooted, EX kernel, TWRP, and Magisk, factory image though, I am hoping to get several actual users testimonies here from those who have / had a 2 XL and currently have a 4 XL.
My 2 XL is still plenty fast and really all I need, but wanting to see how much of a jump up the 4 XL really is from the 2XL to see if it's worth the $$$, as I know a lot of 2 XL owners waiting to hear what users think of the 4 XL.
I realize it will take a little time until a lot of folks have the 4 XL in their hands (1st batch ships in 3 days) , but I think the real user comparisons will be worth the wait!
Thanks in advance for the reviews and comparisons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm running basically same thing as you on my 2XL. Received my 4XL earlier today and 2 things that I noticed immediately were the display and sound. The display is noticeably better on the 4XL and the speakers are louder. Haven't really noticed a huge increase in speed, seems about the same compared to the 2XL. Face unlock works well and I'm already adjusting to no fingerprint scanner. The Soli gestures are kind of nice paired with the dock.
I just got my Pixel 4 XL yesterday; upgrading from Pixel 2 XL. Here are a few preliminary things I noticed when comparing the 2 phones:
1) The volume up and down buttons on the Pixel 4 make a louder click sound when pressed. Not drastically louder but enough for me to notice
2) Touchscreen on the Pixel 4 is so much better. I remember the Pixel 2's touch sensitivity and accuracy always lacking when compared to my old Nexus 6P, but they've fixed/improved it on the Pixel 4.
3) I miss the fingerprint unlock. I keep on putting my finger on the spot where the sensor used to be. Face unlock works fine most of the time, but takes longer in the dark and when I'm not upright (eg laying in bed). I also notice a few instances where I didn't want the phone to unlock but it unlocked itself as I was walking b/c I looked at it.
I have both and have the 2 XL at the side, I'm enjoying looking at the 2 XL screen, whites are white and colours are solid, good separation, my 4 XL is yellow tinted and colour separation doesn't look so good, for anyone who has both, boost your brightness up a bit then look how ****ty the greens look on WhatsApp, my 2 XL is superior to the 4 XL for colour separation go figure.
I have both and even though I've only had the 4xl for a day I am weavering towards the 2xl. The only thing better on the 4xl that I've noticed is sound quality. I have the gcam mod on the 2xl and the pictures look about the same. But I missed the finger print reader more than I thought I would. Especially when signing into my banking apps. Face unlock just doesn't feel right. I mean the damn thing turns on when you don't want it to if it sees your face lol. I've been using the 2xl for about 14 months. I still get great battery life out of it. I got lucky and have a perfect screen with no color shift or burn in. Comparing the screens I would say the 4xl is better. Then again it's a brand new phone it should be. It's hard to compare these phones mainly because of the length I have used a pixel 2xl. This is my 4th one I tried the 3xl but got rid of it in a month. And with the 4xl being so different the same may happen to it.
wolfu11 said:
I have both and even though I've only had the 4xl for a day I am weavering towards the 2xl. The only thing better on the 4xl that I've noticed is sound quality. I have the gcam mod on the 2xl and the pictures look about the same. But I missed the finger print reader more than I thought I would. Especially when signing into my banking apps. Face unlock just doesn't feel right. I mean the damn thing turns on when you don't want it to if it sees your face lol. I've been using the 2xl for about 14 months. I still get great battery life out of it. I got lucky and have a perfect screen with no color shift or burn in. Comparing the screens I would say the 4xl is better. Then again it's a brand new phone it should be. It's hard to compare these phones mainly because of the length I have used a pixel 2xl. This is my 4th one I tried the 3xl but got rid of it in a month. And with the 4xl being so different the same may happen to it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is your 2 XL a good pure white one? I ask because mine is and it's just outright better than 4 XL for whites, the 4 XL in bright environments doesn't look too bad but when the lights fade in the evening at home in duller environments this yellow is standing out like a sore thumb.
I had a 2 XL until about a month ago, when I plugged it in and smoke came out of the charge port, after which it won't boot to recovery or OS. Used my old Nexus 6P while waiting for the 4 XL, which I brought home yesterday. Here are my thoughts on the 2 vs the 4:
4 XL pros:
-does not emit smoke (big pro)
-the telephoto camera
-better camera all round, thanks to the improved sensor they introduced with the Pixel 3
-screen is an upgrade in terms of refresh rate and viewing angles, both of which I do notice in regular use
-it's too slow for a mid-day top-up, but wireless charging is super convenient sitting at my desk or overnight
-the "awareness" features of soli (eg turning ambient off when you walk away) work really well
-the extra RAM makes a huge difference, apps get killed way less often and everything loads a bit faster
4 XL cons:
-yes face unlock is ridiculously fast, but it still takes some getting used to not being able to unlock my phone *before* I look at it - would've preferred to have a fingerprint reader on the back too
-white balance on the 2's screen was a bit cooler - personal preference but I like my whites more blue than yellow
-buttons on the 4 are a bit too hard to press
-miss my front-facing speakers even if the bottom-firing one is good quality
-soli gestures are hit-or-miss - maybe this'll be fixed with software updates but for now I can maybe trigger snooze on my alarm 1/3 times
It's all pretty minor stuff either way tbh. I don't know that I would've upgraded if I hadn't needed a new phone anyway, but I also don't think there's any reason not to. I think it comes down to the faster processor, extra RAM, and improved camera hardware - if those things are going to make enough difference for you to have a better daily experience, the other differences are all things you'll get used to easily enough.
Don't have my Pixel 4 XL yet but I think a reason for the noticable screen temperature difference is because the Pixel 2 XL was too cool. I have an October 2017 Pixel 2 XL and I definitely noticed cool white balance as well as the blue shift but I got over it. I'm sure I'll notice the warmer temperature on the Pixel 4 XL and I'll get used to it as well.
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Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
I only upgraded my 2 XL because my contract was up for renewal and quite honestly there is not much difference between the two - The lack of fingerprint reader is not great, but face unlock is working really well. Having the screen totally off until you're near is cool and must be a battery saver, however soli gestures are daft and I wont be using them in public for fear of looking like a right tw*t. Wireless charging is about the only real winner for me. Have given my white 2 XL to my Mrs on loan, with the proviso that she looks after it like I did - after two years it still looks brand new, a testament to the build quality.
24 months between upgrades used to bring huge improvements in quality and features, but now it seems Google et al have run out of ideas and Moore's Law isn't making much of a dent on the industry.
I've had my Pixel 2XL for 2 years and it's been awesome, received my Clearly white 4XL yesterday and have been happy thus far...
Opinion:
-4XL looks better aesthetically and feels better in the hand. I've always loved metal phones vs glass however the matted rear of the 4XL just feels awesome. Makes me want to go case-less but that's too risky lol.
Face Unlock is better than the fingerprint scanner because it's more seamless but takes some getting use to because it's so fast and accurate you may unlock your phone when your goal was just to look at your lock screen to see the time. (Also it may take a day to get beyond the habit of trying to touch a fingerprint reader that isn't there lol and banking apps still need to be updated to take advantage of the face Unlock feature)
Facts:
- Camera is obviously a little better (yet I haven't spent a lot of time with it)
- Battery life has been solid so far (unfortunately I can't give further stats because I can't exactly remember them but my phone arrived at 55%, I set up phone, installed 100+ apps, was tinkering & checking out features and after 7 hrs total usage, 3 hrs SOT I was probably around 33% battery life)
-The screen looks a little sharper than the 2XL and the blacks have more contrast & are better lit at lower brightness (no black blob effect to my knowledge)
-Speakers were actually surprising, they definitely sound better than the 2XL, Fuller & clearer and an improvement over the front facing ones.
-Phone call ear piece sounds clearer and a bit louder.
-Soli Gestures worked at a 99% rate for me and felt natural, I don't know how often I will use but they worked
Other Things:
- I haven't been able to really tell a difference in regards to the 90hz yet
- Phone is really snappy with no hiccups but my 2XL was/is the same so no major difference.
That's all I really can think of so far... It's definitely an upgrade over the 2XL but is it a necessary upgrade is something only we can answer as individuals.
Ady1976 said:
Is your 2 XL a good pure white one? I ask because mine is and it's just outright better than 4 XL for whites, the 4 XL in bright environments doesn't look too bad but when the lights fade in the evening at home in duller environments this yellow is standing out like a sore thumb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually have 3 pixel 2xls and they all have excellent screens whites are very good. But the 4xl 8bhave has good whites as well. I've gone through a lot of pixel 2xls and have only kept the best of them. But with this 4xl I think I got lucky right away. I still may get rid of it though....
Yeah I'm not sure if I'm keeping it either now, someone spoke to Google from Reddit and Google say it's normal they use srgb colour profile, so either Google is lieing or people saying they have pure white screens think theres is white but it really isn't, a lot of won't even know the difference, so if it is Google's colour profile then I fear the worst, clock is ticking I have around 9 days left to decide.
Ady1976 said:
Yeah I'm not sure if I'm keeping it either now, someone spoke to Google from Reddit and Google say it's normal they use srgb colour profile, so either Google is lieing or people saying they have pure white screens think theres is white but it really isn't, a lot of won't even know the difference, so if it is Google's colour profile then I fear the worst, clock is ticking I have around 9 days left to decide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google may add some settings in the future that would allow you to adjust that, like they did with the muted colors on the 2XL initially.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
sharkie405 said:
Google may add some settings in the future that would allow you to adjust that, like they did with the muted colors on the 2XL initially.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who knows if they will but the fact it goes white on angle would suggest defect display I think.
EeZeEpEe said:
Don't have my Pixel 4 XL yet but I think a reason for the noticable screen temperature difference is because the Pixel 2 XL was too cool. I have an October 2017 Pixel 2 XL and I definitely noticed cool white balance as well as the blue shift but I got over it. I'm sure I'll notice the warmer temperature on the Pixel 4 XL and I'll get used to it as well.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pixel 4 XL on the left and Pixel 2 XL on the right. Definitely don't miss that blue shift.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
I have both the 2XL and the 4XL. Just picking up the devices off the table and using them, they're close enough to the same. You already know the differences from all the reviews, but just using the device, minimal difference in my use case. Having used the 2 and 4 at the same time, moving data between the two and checking congruence, the display is slightly different. I suppose if I had the option to buy the 4XL again, I'd just keep the 2XL. I do miss the fingerprint scanner though. And the free 'original quality uploads'.
How I justified buying the 4 to replace the 2;
better camera, and my son gets the 2XL to replace his clapped out Moto.
Maybe there is a crowd that thinks most things with smart phones are similar like the older generation does. Hell a coworker said his LG Stylo is just as fast as the best Android phones. It was 2 XL-OP 6-OP 6T- Note 9- 3 XL- OP 7 Pro- 4 XL on the Android side. That was just on my phone line. I'm not a part of that crown. When people said 1080P isn't noticeable it was to me. The same goes for 1440P and 90 Hz. Fast and smooth aren't the same thing. Side by side I have no problem with whites in the 4 XL and it isn't extremely blue. The fluidity and speed are definitely noticeable compared to the 2 XL. I even notice a slight difference from the 7 Pro and its more consistent. OP generally focuses on the speed side of things while Google does both. I think people that have had flagships from both each year would be able to see. I was bashing Google but missed my excellent camera so got this anyway. I kind of had to shut up though. Don't get me wrong though because I'm not letting them off the hook. Like Flossy Carter says its a love hate relationship lol. The camera quality definitely is noticed. The 3 XL I'd say slight. If someone asked should they hold on to the 2 or get the for its a no brainer. The overall feel and experience definitely flush out all the hate and shortcomings. The gestures work almost every single time and I use it allot especially when driving or cooking. i swore the battery would be trash but I'd live with it. I have 90 Hz forced around 60% brightness. Shoooo I've been on the phone most of the day with allot of web browsing. I have 3 hours screen usage and 52% battery left. The look is sleek and elegant. It feels good in the hands "ladies". These speakers are much better. One thing I haven't heard anyone talk about are the mics on this phone. others phones I've had I'd have on while showering. My lady can actually here me now and she comes through clear. This is with a shower on and the bathroom ceiling fan making noise. Going to the 2 XL from the 7 Pro when I was getting used to Pixel software in advance wasn't the worst thing ever but it was bad. trying to use it for a couple hours after getting the 4 XL was even worse. My complaint is Google easily could have killed these other phones out here by adding things that are standard for everyone else. A little bigger battery, storage, and wide angle and it would be a wrap. Better doesn't translate to market share and sales exactly but I bet it would have boosted things way more. Googles excuse is sufficient and telephoto is better. Damn then put 3 cameras in like even Apple has. whoever in the hardware team made decisions on battery storage and the wide angle need to be coached or fired. Anyway I'm off track. The 4 XL from the 2 is way worth it. This is coming from someone that bought into the media and hate going on. If I still had the 3 XL I would have passed without giving it a chance. I'm glad I had the 7 Pro and its "close enough to flagship camera".
Edit: all these things I talked about coming together as a whole make a really big difference.
A couple camera comparison pics. It's Pixel 2 XL then Pixel 4 XL.
For the bright outdoor pics, the greener grass might look better but the yellower one is more accurate.
For the indoor restaurant you can see the difference in the highlights (ceiling light, skylight, and background window). It's not blown out in the Pixel 4 XL.
Just some notes I've taken on what I've noticed during my first day:
- Screen doesn't have the blue shift!
- When 90 hz refresh rate is going, it's very, very smooth.
- Speakers are way louder, clearer, and have more range.
- The haptic feedback while typing is very good.
- 29 grams heavier without the case is noticable. I need to find a lighter case because it's up to 39 grams heavier than the Pixel 2 XL in it's lightest case.
- Out of the pocket, Face Unlock is technically slower than fingerprint scanner because I need to wake up the screen first. With fingerprint scanner, I can unlock while pulling it out. But when the phone is flat on something, the Motion Sense to turn on the screen already does make it very quick.
- Face Unlock is quicker and more convenient while the phone is in two handed typing position. No need to readjust to use the fingerprint scanner. Just take a second and it's recognized. It's very noticeable with LastPass which is probably the app that most frequently asks for verification.
- The 2 XL aged very well over two years and it still runs quickly but the 4 XL is just faster and smoother in every way. It's more reactive and there's less waiting for anything. All those fractions of a second add up to many seconds over times.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
Oh forgot to add it's nice to finally have voLTE and Sprint Visual Voicemail on Sprint.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
Are you still Sticking with Your pixel 2? If yes what’s holding you and if not what did u switch to? Would love to have your responses. Thanks.
I have the P2XL. A few more payments to go, before I switch. Not certain what I will replace it with just yet. The P4 is getting mixed reviews right now.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
Still have my Pixel 2. Just don't want to shell out the money for a new phone. Looked hard at the Pixel 3a but didn't want to give up my 128GB of storage and it still does everythingi need a phone to do. Although the newer cameras are better, the Pixel 2 takes amazing photos and can't really tell the difference between newer phones quality unless "pixel peeping" especially with the modded gcam app.
giant22000 said:
Still have my Pixel 2. Just don't want to shell out the money for a new phone. Looked hard at the Pixel 3a but didn't want to give up my 128GB of storage and it still does everythingi need a phone to do. Although the newer cameras are better, the Pixel 2 takes amazing photos and can't really tell the difference between newer phones quality unless "pixel peeping" especially with the modded gcam app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even I have the pixel 2 but 64gb which is enough for me...but the battery life is not good...
karlmf said:
I have the P2XL. A few more payments to go, before I switch. Not certain what I will replace it with just yet. The P4 is getting mixed reviews right now.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
I think the P4 isn’t worth considering since u hv a 2XL..better go with the 3 or 3a series if u really need to upgrade or wait for the 5 IMO.
No reason to ditch my Pixel 2. The size is perfect, bezels actually make screen functions reachable. Had it for nearly two years, got the battery replaced at uBreakiFix two months ago for $80, and now I'm back to a full day of use with nearly 1% idle drain and plenty of screen on time since I don't live on my phone. This thing purrs like a kitten and could easily get me through more than a day if necessary. It would be foolishly irresponsible of me to upgrade now.
Edit:
Today is a good example. See pics attached.
jallenhayslett said:
No reason to ditch my Pixel 2. The size is perfect, bezels actually make screen functions reachable. Had it for nearly two years, got the battery replaced at uBreakiFix two months ago for $80, and now I'm back to a full day of use with nearly 1% idle drain and plenty of screen on time since I don't live on my phone. This thing purrs like a kitten and could easily get me through more than a day if necessary. It would be foolishly irresponsible of me to upgrade now.
Edit:
Today is a good example. See pics attached.
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Click to collapse
I agree with everything except battery. I’m always on social media and this thing lasts only 3 hrs.
I juts had to replace the battery on my Pixel 2 about 4 months ago, and now the rear camera just went wonky. It's been a great phone, although it's not the best when viewing it outdoors. When I review the processor specs, the Pixel 2 seems to be just as good as the 4a. So aside from the RAM and memory, and a somewhat better camera, what's the incentive to upgrade vs repairing my Pixel 2 for about $100.00?
Thanks,
David
1)Better screen
2) Software updates
3) Modern Look
4)Headphone jack
5)Better battery life
100rabh7791 said:
1)Better screen
2) Software updates
3) Modern Look
4)Headphone jack
5)Better battery life
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Click to collapse
Thanks 100rabh7791,
So the decision is really coming down to a couple of factors for me; 1st) Will the screen be that much better, especially outdoors, and 2nd) It feels like the processor isn't that much better than the Pixel 2, so is that a detriment? The bump in storage will be welcome, as will a slightly larger screen, although I will miss the front facing speakers.
For me, the headphone jack isn't a big deal, nor is the look since everything ultimately gets covered in a case. Battery life also isn't a huge deal since 15 minutes on a charger will generally get me the additional boost I need at the end of the day. And since the Pixel 2 will get one more major update, missing out on future upgrades isn't a deal breaker either.
David
DavidJ726 said:
Thanks 100rabh7791,
So the decision is really coming down to a couple of factors for me; 1st) Will the screen be that much better, especially outdoors, and 2nd) It feels like the processor isn't that much better than the Pixel 2, so is that a detriment? The bump in storage will be welcome, as will a slightly larger screen, although I will miss the front facing speakers.
For me, the headphone jack isn't a big deal, nor is the look since everything ultimately gets covered in a case. Battery life also isn't a huge deal since 15 minutes on a charger will generally get me the additional boost I need at the end of the day. And since the Pixel 2 will get one more major update, missing out on future upgrades isn't a deal breaker either.
David
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Click to collapse
1) I'm pretty sure it will be better than 2xl. That was like the weakest point of 2xl.. it gets plenty bright in day light. Heard it gets around 650 nits in auto. Also you'll get a slightly smaller screen rather than larger. 4a is 5.81 inches and 2xl is 6 inch.
2) Haven't seen any comparisons but it should be comparable or probably better in most tasks as you gain additional 2gigs of ram and it's the same as on pixel 4 so it's fast. Also you'll get 128gb variant which if you have bought the 64gb pixel will be an upgrade.
Yeah the 2xl will get android 11.
By looks i mean the front part of the phone. The screen with a more modern punch holes camera.
I'm upgrading from my pixel 2. I've also had to take my pixel 2 in for repair back in April due to screen and charging port issues, but the shop did such a poor job they broke my bottom mic, speaker, and vibration motor. I'm in Hawaii, so it's not so easy for me to get someone who's willing to actually repair my pixel 2 which I love.
Going 2 to 4a, you're also gonna loose the squeeze on assistant, and water resistance rating. Those are my 2 wishes that they included in the 4a.
100rabh7791 said:
1)Better screen
2) Software updates
3) Modern Look
4)Headphone jack
5)Better battery life
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The Pixel 2 screen isn't bad.
2. Yeah, software support will be ending soon for the Pixel 2.
3. Modern look? It's a bit boring and has a terrible content obstructing hole punch. That alone is enough reason to not buy it.
4. Headphone jack is nice. I don't understand why that's a low end phone feature when it actually makes the tiny (a tiny bit) more expensive.
5. Better battery life? Maybe but only because it's new and the Pixel 2 is almost three years old. The battery life of the Pixel 2 when new and the Pixel 4a likely have about equally bad battery life.
I am in the same boat, thinking to replace my 2 xl and wife's 2 with this 4a. I can live with all those, except for the camera which I have no idea how 4a compared to 2/2xl. Although 2/2xl will get Android 11, but it won't get further security updates. And that's a big deal for me.
DavidJ726 said:
Thanks 100rabh7791,
So the decision is really coming down to a couple of factors for me; 1st) Will the screen be that much better, especially outdoors, and 2nd) It feels like the processor isn't that much better than the Pixel 2, so is that a detriment? The bump in storage will be welcome, as will a slightly larger screen, although I will miss the front facing speakers.
For me, the headphone jack isn't a big deal, nor is the look since everything ultimately gets covered in a case. Battery life also isn't a huge deal since 15 minutes on a charger will generally get me the additional boost I need at the end of the day. And since the Pixel 2 will get one more major update, missing out on future upgrades isn't a deal breaker either.
David
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I was in a similar boat, was waiting for the 4A to come out when my OG Pixel suddenly died. Needed a phone asap so I picked up the 4. It's a decent enough phone but I miss my fingerprint reader, headphone jack and since I was in a hurry with no phone I had to get a 64gb pixel 4. I'm currently thinking of "downgrading" to the 4A so I'll be curious to see what people think. When I was going from the OG Pixel it was a no brainer, not I'm not as sure...
I bought one. Perfect price and looks like I wont miss the 2xl much. The burn in the the 2xl has been terrible. Google replaced the screen twice and Now its burned in again .....Cant wait for the 4a.
My wife just upgraded from a Pixel 2 to a Pixel 4a. We got it yesterday, so she's only a day in, but she likes it a lot so far because of the larger screen in a shorter phone. And she also was super happy about having a headphone jack again.
I know many are disappointed with seemingly mediocre specs for a flagship, but I'm very happy with the design choices in the Pixel 5. Here's why:
Aluminum body. I've had enough of the completely impractical "premium" glass bodies that crack when you look at them wrong. Finally a return to something sensible.
Flat OLED. Seems like every flagship has to have curved edges. I haven't seen one phone yet that didn't have imperfections in the curve or drive me crazy with errant touches on the edges. Simple is better.
Return of the fingerprint scanner
NO NOTCH
Reasonable size. It seems like the flagship race always equates "bigger" with "better". I don't subscribe to that theory, and I'm glad to see a more modest size for the Pixel 5.
I do wish it had the Snapdragon 865, Wifi 6, and the telephoto lens, but every other choice was perfect IMO. Even with the CPU, I'm sure that choice was about cost, so it might be the right cost/performance trade-off to go with the 765G. Time will tell, I suppose.
What are your thoughts? Do you feel like this was a step backward or does anyone else feel the same about these design choices?
The form factor is what really sold me. Almost identical to the Essential (RIP)
Coming from the Pixel 4, the Pixel 5 has all of the changes I desire. Making it a no brainer, for me.
Lower power chipset / Less PPI / Larger battery -- All culminating to improved battery life. Probably by a good margin, in daily use.
No Active Edge / No Soli -- I disabled Active Edge and motion sense long ago as I found them more annoying than useful. I imagine not having the Soli chip will help to improve battery life even further.
Rear fingerprint reader -- YES!! These days I'm wearing a mask majority of the time I'm trying to use my phone, rendering face unlock useless. Having the fingerprint reader on the back is VERY welcomed.
Wide Angle Camera -- Another great addition. I don't need improved zoom quality. I need to be able to fit more content into a single picture.
The Pixel 5 is an improvement over the Pixel 4 in every way, in my opinion.
@sn0warmy Side note: your device history is what I wish mine looked like...
flamadiddle said:
@sn0warmy Side note: your device history is what I wish mine looked like...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's been a fun journey. I still remember the day I unboxed my Nexus One, right after it was launched. That was a special feeling and it opened the door into the crazy world of rooting/tinkering on Android devices. 10 years later, I'm making significantly more money with a lot more expensive toys and hobbies. Yet, Pixel launch day still gets me excited, every single year. It's the kid in me that will never grow up. :highfive:
All theses features in a 6' phone, it's perfect. I don't enjoy crazy big phones...
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3003 using XDA Labs
@sn0warmy from someone that had the 3 XL - I hope this is a huge improvement as that is my current phone. I have pre-ordered it. What are your thoughts, 3 XL vs P5 (obv you can't say too much besides basing it on specs).
I'm going to get the pixel 5. Currently using 4 XL. My dilemma is that if Google will flash the prices by black Friday like last year. So I may wait till Thanksgiving.
Great price for pixel 5 though
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
HamsterHam said:
@sn0warmy from someone that had the 3 XL - I hope this is a huge improvement as that is my current phone. I have pre-ordered it. What are your thoughts, 3 XL vs P5 (obv you can't say too much besides basing it on specs).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 3XL was a great phone. But I've come to prefer smaller phones. Which is why I went from the 3XL to the 4 (non-XL). The Pixel 4 is a much better size for daily use, for me. So the Pixel 5 is going to be a great size, as well.
As far as features and specs...
1) The Pixel 5 has 2x the amount of RAM as the 3XL. I've come to learn that more RAM is much more crucial to having a consistently smooth experience over time, rather than having a top of the line processor. So the Snapdragon 765G in the Pixel 5 doesn't concern me in the least bit.
2) The Pixel 5 has a 4000mAh battery, which is nearly an 18% increase in capacity, compared to the 3400mAh battery in the 3XL. the Pixel 5 also has a 6.0" display, vs the 6.3" in the 3XL. But the Pixel 5 is also pushing more total pixels, so that may actually be a hit to battery life, between the two phones. Regardless, the Pixel 5 battery should outlast the 3XL battery by a decent margin.
3) Pictures taken with your Pixel 5 will be better than the 3XL. Will it be a huge improvement? Probably not. But it will be an improvement, nonetheless.
vhl71 said:
I'm going to get the pixel 5. Currently using 4 XL. My dilemma is that if Google will flash the prices by black Friday like last year. So I may wait till Thanksgiving.
Great price for pixel 5 though
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Click to collapse
That's actually a really good point, which I failed to consider. Last year Google dropped the price of the Pixel 4 by $200 over Black Friday weekend. It irritated a lot of people.
However, last year Google overestimated demand for the Pixel 4 by almost 30% (SOURCE). They were forced to unload inventory, hence the big price drops over Black Friday weekend and again in January, 2020. This year Google is being much more realistic about the total number of units they expect to sell and have adjusted production accordingly.
I do imagine you'll see some sort of promotion for the Pixel 5 over Black Friday weekend. It's in the best interest of online retailers to offer some sort of promotion when buyers are looking for the best deals. Fun fact: Many big name online retailers will generate upwards of 20% of their total yearly online revenue, just over Black Friday weekend.
With that said, I'll be very surprised if Google drops the price by $200 again. If I were a betting man, I'd wager that over Black Friday weekend you'll be able to snag a Pixel 5 for $75 - $100 off. Worst case, it will likely be a "Gift With Purchase" promotion, in which they give you a new Chromecast ($50 value) when you buy the Pixel 5.
@sn0warmy great. Exactly what I was thinking. Overall should be a better experience than the 3 XL especially due to the RAM increase. Looking forward to getting it.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
I'll be picking up a Pixel 5 a few updates down the road (gotta make sure the bugs and issues are worked out first). The Pixel 4 was a bust. It appears the Pixel 5 fixes all the things that went wrong there. I would get the 4a but it's plastic and not water repellant which is a non-starter.
I don't like bigger phones and coming from a Pixel 2 I think the 5 is just right with more screen real estate. The face unlock feature was just as ridiculous as the notch. So glad they are gone. Looks like I'll be able to pick the phone up and unlock it with the finger print sensor just like before (too easy).
As for the processor, they are so fast these days, they could have told you it was the faster chip and you would never have known. Most people don't do anything so intense that they really need all that extra umph anyway and if it lowers the price of a Google phone, great!
sn0warmy said:
Coming from the Pixel 4, the Pixel 5 has all of the changes I desire. Making it a no brainer, for me.
Lower power chipset / Less PPI / Larger battery -- All culminating to improved battery life. Probably by a good margin, in daily use.
No Active Edge / No Soli -- I disabled Active Edge and motion sense long ago as I found them more annoying than useful. I imagine not having the Soli chip will help to improve battery life even further.
Rear fingerprint reader -- YES!! These days I'm wearing a mask majority of the time I'm trying to use my phone, rendering face unlock useless. Having the fingerprint reader on the back is VERY welcomed.
Wide Angle Camera -- Another great addition. I don't need improved zoom quality. I need to be able to fit more content into a single picture.
The Pixel 5 is an improvement over the Pixel 4 in every way, in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm with you on the bigger battery and lower PPI (really lower resolution) to help with battery life but I wish it had the 865 chip. The processor doesn't even have a big impact on battery life when compared to the screen.
I don't care about Soli but I'm really going to miss the active edge. I don't know why you're happy that's gone when you can disable it anyways. Sometimes I like to use the assistant and make sure it's on my phone even if I have other nearby devices. Without active edge the only way to do that is to swipe diagonally from the corners which doesn't work like 75% of the time.
I'm also with you on the rear fingerprint reader. I didn't own a Pixel 4 but I did spend a day with one and the face unlock was awful.
For the camera I'd much rather have a telephoto than a wide angle. The wide angle basically useless to me. I have very often wish I could get closer to the subject of the photo but I've never wish I could get farther away.
---------- Post added at 08:10 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:03 AM ----------
flamadiddle said:
I know many are disappointed with seemingly mediocre specs for a flagship, but I'm very happy with the design choices in the Pixel 5. Here's why:
Aluminum body. I've had enough of the completely impractical "premium" glass bodies that crack when you look at them wrong. Finally a return to something sensible.
Flat OLED. Seems like every flagship has to have curved edges. I haven't seen one phone yet that didn't have imperfections in the curve or drive me crazy with errant touches on the edges. Simple is better.
Return of the fingerprint scanner
NO NOTCH
Reasonable size. It seems like the flagship race always equates "bigger" with "better". I don't subscribe to that theory, and I'm glad to see a more modest size for the Pixel 5.
I do wish it had the Snapdragon 865, Wifi 6, and the telephoto lens, but every other choice was perfect IMO. Even with the CPU, I'm sure that choice was about cost, so it might be the right cost/performance trade-off to go with the 765G. Time will tell, I suppose.
What are your thoughts? Do you feel like this was a step backward or does anyone else feel the same about these design choices?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm really happy about the aluminum back.
I actually like the feel of the curved edges on my Pixel 2 XL but I honestly don't really carry either way.
It doesn't have a notch but It does have a hole punch which to me is just as bad as the notch. Obstructed screen content is obstructed screen content either way. In fact after learning that the developer option to hide the cutout that was on the Pixel 3 XL isn't on the Pixel 5 has me considering canceling my pre-order.
You make a good point that the flagship race seems to mean bigger is better. I don't even think the Pixel 5 is a modest size I think it's still way too big. I really miss the days of one-handed use and comfortable pocket ability those days have been gone for years and are unlikely to return.
It would be nice to have an actual fast processor instead of the slow 765 but that I think I could probably deal with. I also really wish they would have kept the telephoto of the Pixel 4 instead of going to the wide angle. Or just have three lenses like other phones even at the same price point.
jimv1983 said:
I don't care about Soli but I'm really going to miss the active edge. I don't know why you're happy that's gone when you can disable it anyways.
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Click to collapse
I wouldn't say I'm "happy" it's gone. Rather, I found it to be of little or no use. So removal of the associated hardware, which very well could have negatively impacted the battery, even when disabled, is perfectly fine with me.
sn0warmy said:
I wouldn't say I'm "happy" it's gone. Rather, I found it to be of little or no use. So removal of the associated hardware, which very well could have negatively impacted the battery, even when disabled, is perfectly fine with me.
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Click to collapse
Yeah on stock it was really useless. On custom rom you could assign apps of actions to it which was really good. I think I am going to miss it
sn0warmy said:
I wouldn't say I'm "happy" it's gone. Rather, I found it to be of little or no use. So removal of the associated hardware, which very well could have negatively impacted the battery, even when disabled, is perfectly fine with me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was essentially just a physical button. It wouldn't be a drain on the battery anymore than the volume buttons would is. Now there is no reliable way to activate the Google Assistant without voice which would trigger other near by devices too. That really sucks.
jimv1983 said:
It was essentially just a physical button. It wouldn't be a drain on the battery anymore than the volume buttons would is. Now there is no reliable way to activate the Google Assistant without voice which would trigger other near by devices too. That really sucks.
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Click to collapse
Most likely due to the aluminum frame. Sad anyway
Benjamin_L said:
Most likely due to the aluminum frame. Sad anyway
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What is mostly due to the aluminum frame?
jimv1983 said:
What is mostly due to the aluminum frame?
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Getting rid of active edge I meant. Maybe I am also imagining it the wrong way.
Benjamin_L said:
Getting rid of active edge I meant. Maybe I am also imagining it the wrong way.
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Having an aluminum frame doesn't have an impact on Active Edge. The Pixel 2 was the first phone to have Active Edge and it's aluminum.
jimv1983 said:
Having an aluminum frame doesn't have an impact on Active Edge. The Pixel 2 was the first phone to have Active Edge and it's aluminum.
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Click to collapse
Hmm too bad they got rid of it then. Do we know yet who builds the P5?