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The Future: Huawei Mate 8 vs P9 Max vs LeMax (US and other LTE Bands?!?)

OK, maybe it's a subset of groups, but the quest for the Holy Grail >6" and <7" Phone continues.
There are a few mid-ranges like Oppo R2 plus, Lenova is just Phab, but a good truly modifiable flag ship type phone seems out of grasp (your mileage may vary). [I actually have been swapping back and forth between the X2 and Note4 enough to make my head spin. I love the customization on the Note4 (use TekHD and OverDrive). BUT 6.3" seems like the perfect sweet spot between the X2 and the Note4.]
Posting this thread to not dirty up the MediaPad/Honor X2 where did you buy from thread.
This is NOT intended to be a love what I got, it's better than you want thread. IF you are satisfied and want to defend your current purchase please go to those forums and express your deep love there.
This is for looking at what's next and what HAS USA LTE bands,
So some initial contenders.
1) The cool LeTV LeMax. Super cool actually, but misses the US LTE criteria which only partially reduces the pangs of want).
ajsmsg78 said:
...I was looking at another phone I think I want to buy called the LeTV LeMax. It's a 6.3 inch phone similar to our X2 but a fingerprint scanner, NFC, faster CPU, and 21MP Camera....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gsQs_2Vf2k
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
... There is a dev thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/letv-one-max1-x900-main-thread-t3170154/page78...
Now the Rumor Mill. There is supposed to be a LeTV LeMax 2. It should have all bands, but they are talking shrinking the screen. :crying:
2) Next up is the Huawei Mate 8
Huawei Mate 8 Price Leaks For Two Versions Ahead Of Nov. 26 Launch
A flagship in the dark which should be public 28 Nov.
How a company does a 6P, Mate S, and now the Mate 8 as THE Flagship, but I'll like it if it is bigger than the 6" and does US LTE
3) So amongst the many Huawei flagships comes the P9 Max, which may be the favorite here in this forum as a successor phone.
P9 Max (6.2" sweet spot). Hope they are smart enough to include us dumb Americans.
4) Maybe the Vivo X6 also?
Vivo X6
Thoughts?

Rudolpht said:
OK, maybe it's a subset of groups, but the quest for the Holy Grail >6" and <7" Phone continues.
There are a few mid-ranges like Oppo R2 plus, Lenova is just Phab, but a good truly modifiable flag ship type phone seems out of grasp (your mileage may vary). [I actually have been swapping back and forth between the X2 and Note4 enough to make my head spin. I love the customization on the Note4 (use TekHD and OverDrive). BUT 6.3" seems like the perfect sweet spot between the X2 and the Note4.]
Posting this thread to not dirty up the MediaPad/Honor X2 where did you buy from thread.
This is NOT intended to be a love what I got, it's better than you want thread. IF you are satisfied and want to defend your current purchase please go to those forums and express your deep love there.
This is for looking at what's next and what HAS USA LTE bands,
So some initial contenders.
1) The cool LeTV LeMax. Super cool actually, but misses the US LTE criteria which only partially reduces the pangs of want).
... There is a dev thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/letv-one-max1-x900-main-thread-t3170154/page78...
Now the Rumor Mill. There is supposed to be a LeTV LeMax 2. It should have all bands, but they are talking shrinking the screen. :crying:
2) Next up is the Huawei Mate 8
Huawei Mate 8 Price Leaks For Two Versions Ahead Of Nov. 26 Launch
A flagship in the dark which should be public 28 Nov.
How a company does a 6P, Mate S, and now the Mate 8 as THE Flagship, but I'll like it if it is bigger than the 6" and does US LTE
3) So amongst the many Huawei flagships comes the P9 Max, which may be the favorite here in this forum as a successor phone.
P9 Max (6.2" sweet spot). Hope they are smart enough to include us dumb Americans.
4) Maybe the Vivo X6 also?
Vivo X6
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My only thought is that a 7 inch screen with a 16:10 ratio IS the sweet spot for me, so if it's any smaller or bigger I'm not really interested. Unfortunately that rather restricts my choices, so it's a good job I'm happy with my X2 for now!

Moandal said:
My only thought is that a 7 inch screen with a 16:10 ratio IS the sweet spot for me, so if it's any smaller or bigger I'm not really interested. Unfortunately that rather restricts my choices, so it's a good job I'm happy with my X2 for now!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it had US LTE it would and the 702 took custom ROMs easily, it would probably be next to perfect for me, but looking for discussion on other devices.

Rudolpht said:
OK, maybe it's a subset of groups, but the quest for the Holy Grail >6" and <7" Phone continues.
There are a few mid-ranges like Oppo R2 plus, Lenova is just Phab, but a good truly modifiable flag ship type phone seems out of grasp (your mileage may vary). [I actually have been swapping back and forth between the X2 and Note4 enough to make my head spin. I love the customization on the Note4 (use TekHD and OverDrive). BUT 6.3" seems like the perfect sweet spot between the X2 and the Note4.]
Posting this thread to not dirty up the MediaPad/Honor X2 where did you buy from thread.
This is NOT intended to be a love what I got, it's better than you want thread. IF you are satisfied and want to defend your current purchase please go to those forums and express your deep love there.
This is for looking at what's next and what HAS USA LTE bands,
So some initial contenders.
1) The cool LeTV LeMax. Super cool actually, but misses the US LTE criteria which only partially reduces the pangs of want).
... There is a dev thread, http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/letv-one-max1-x900-main-thread-t3170154/page78...
Now the Rumor Mill. There is supposed to be a LeTV LeMax 2. It should have all bands, but they are talking shrinking the screen. :crying:
2) Next up is the Huawei Mate 8
Huawei Mate 8 Price Leaks For Two Versions Ahead Of Nov. 26 Launch
A flagship in the dark which should be public 28 Nov.
How a company does a 6P, Mate S, and now the Mate 8 as THE Flagship, but I'll like it if it is bigger than the 6" and does US LTE
3) So amongst the many Huawei flagships comes the P9 Max, which may be the favorite here in this forum as a successor phone.
P9 Max (6.2" sweet spot). Hope they are smart enough to include us dumb Americans.
4) Maybe the Vivo X6 also?
Vivo X6
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I purchased my X2 I actually wanted a P8 Max but the price was too high for me to drop the money on since it still didn't have LTE support here as well as the X2 having a larger battery helped make my decision. The Phab plus has too small of a battery for me to think about buying one. If the Mate 8 comes with full LTE support I'd probably buy one of those as well as the P9 Max. I'm looking for my next purchase to have LTE support as well as band 12 support now that it's pretty prevalent here on Long Island where I live. I'd like something around 6.2" to use as a daily driver and something 6.8 to 7 inches to use as well. I'll probably just stick to the X2 because I like it a lot. My Nexus 6 doesn't get the best battery life and that's the main reason I will sell it. Oh, and it's ONLY 6", lol. The problem is, on many forums I see people complaining that a phone is too big and they ask how others can use something so big. That annoys me as there are PLENTY of smaller phones out there as well as plenty of 5.5-5.7 inch phones as well but not too many over 6 inches.

The 24th and 26th coming up for some announcements.
I don't know if the P9 Max will be discussed or held until MWC.
I was on a trip this week and the lack of LTE really impacted me, compared to my work iPhone (blehck).

Ok, the Mate 8 is outted formally
Wow. If the 8 follows the Mate S trend to support the ATT/GSM frequency bands, this graduates from could buy to must buy. Only the P9 Max vaporware would hold me back.
Happy Thanksgiving all.

Huawei Mate 8 Hands On: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzHybzpuKWw

If the Mate 8 comes to my country (U.S.) then I will definitely be buying one to replace my Nexus 6. Then hopefully the P9 Max or Mediapad X3 support LTE here and if they do I'll be buying one of those as well. I'm really liking the design of some of these Chinese phones. They are much nicer than almost all the stuff they force down your throat here in the U.S and the batteries are much larger.

ajsmsg78 said:
If the Mate 8 comes to my country (U.S.) then I will definitely be buying one to replace my Nexus 6. Then hopefully the P9 Max or Mediapad X3 support LTE here and if they do I'll be buying one of those as well. I'm really liking the design of some of these Chinese phones. They are much nicer than almost all the stuff they force down your throat here in the U.S and the batteries are much larger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, somehow the Chinese phones have adopted a modern looking industrial design than what Samsung and LG are putting out in their flagship products. The design of the X2 attracted me immediately, as it looks like what I hoped the 2013 Nexus 7 would be. And it's a phone as well!
Anyway, I'm really liking the designs that Huawei, Meizu and Xiaomi are coming out with these days. I remember having a Meizu M6 MP3 player almost 10 years ago that had a surprisingly compelling design that mixed the iPod Nano and iPod Video. Them were the days: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meizu_M6_miniPlayer

ajsmsg78 said:
If the Mate 8 comes to my country (U.S.) then I will definitely be buying one to replace my Nexus 6. Then hopefully the P9 Max or Mediapad X3 support LTE here and if they do I'll be buying one of those as well. I'm really liking the design of some of these Chinese phones. ....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will trade in my Note 4 for a Mate 8 and maybe X2 for an X3 predicated on US LTE support. I agree the designs are going upscale, and beating the US in battery and other Phablet features. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 and Gionee GN8001 would sell here I think if local LTE supported.

More on the P9 Max https://www.whatech.com/mobile/reviews/111433-huawei-p9-max-big-on-everything-6-2-inch-quad-hd-screen-fast-octa-core-with-4gb-ram-and-20mp-5mp-camera

Rudolpht said:
More on the P9 Max https://www.whatech.com/mobile/revi...st-octa-core-with-4gb-ram-and-20mp-5mp-camera
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screenshot says it has a 16:10 2560x1600 screen but the article says it has a 16:9 2560x1440 screen. Which one is it? I'm guessing it's 16:9 as 1440p panels are likely more common at that screen size than 1600p. Either way, I think 1440p/1600p panels make more sense on larger screens than on the current crop of 5-5.7 inch phones.
I hope Huawei doesn't discontinue the Mediapad X series however, just because it is so unique.

Review of LeTV Le Max. More disappointing than I expected. http://www.androidheadlines.com/2015/12/featured-review-letv-le-max-x900.html

Xperia Z6 will include an Ultra version with a 6.4 inch screen. The last Xperia Z Ultra phone was in 2013, with a 1080P 6.44" screen.
http://www.gsmarena.com/a_total_of_5_sony_xperia_z6s_expected_a_4inch_mini_among_them-news-15343.php

I saw that today also. There is a press conference at CES which was thought to be tge Z5 Ultra. I owned the Z Ultra and has been painful watching the 5 successive models go by. We'll see what rumors come true.

For some reason I have never liked Sony's Phones. I had a Z Ultra before the X2 and hated it so much I returned it. I hated the bezels being too large, I hated the undersized battery and I especially hated the door for the MicroUSB charger which ended up falling off constantly. If new Z Ultra has less bezel and a large battery I'd consider picking one up though.

ajsmsg78 said:
For some reason I have never liked Sony's Phones. I had a Z Ultra before the X2 and hated it so much I returned it. I hated the bezels being too large, I hated the undersized battery and I especially hated the door for the MicroUSB charger which ended up falling off constantly. If new Z Ultra has less bezel and a large battery I'd consider picking one up though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm kinda' anti-sony now, regardless. They were always good with replacement phones but my last one they said sorry, won't even fix (for the price of one on swappa). At this point I think a new Ultra may never come out despite Z5 & Z6 rumors. They didn't pan out for Z2 Ultra, Z3 Ultra, Z4 Ultra. It's actually part of the reason I'm waiting on you getting the 702L. I bricked the last "extra" ultra and don't want to do same with the 702L, which is more than a hold over phone with all the improvements by you and in the forum.

Rudolpht said:
I'm kinda' anti-sony now, regardless. They were always good with replacement phones but my last one they said sorry, won't even fix (for the price of one on swappa). At this point I think a new Ultra may never come out despite Z5 & Z6 rumors. They didn't pan out for Z2 Ultra, Z3 Ultra, Z4 Ultra. It's actually part of the reason I'm waiting on you getting the 702L. I bricked the last "extra" ultra and don't want to do same with the 702L, which is more than a hold over phone with all the improvements by you and in the forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HA, I bricked the Ultra as well but not with software. I bought one of those magnetic charging cables for it and plugged it in upside down (it never said anywhere it couldn't be plugged in either way) and the phone shut off and that was all she wrote.

Yup, I was considering getting the Google Play edition of the Z Ultra, but the lack of camera flash (??!) and the enormous top and bottom bezels made it a non-starter. Part of me also thinks that a Z6 Ultra will ultimately be vaporware.
Sony Mobile isn't doing well at all, and I don't see how they would risk their brand name by attaching it to so many different models.

aniym said:
Yup, I was considering getting the Google Play edition of the Z Ultra, but the lack of camera flash (??!) and the enormous top and bottom bezels made it a non-starter. Part of me also thinks that a Z6 Ultra will ultimately be vaporware.
Sony Mobile isn't doing well at all, and I don't see how they would risk their brand name by attaching it to so many different models.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I forgot about the camera not having a flash. That was a big thing as well as I use the flash for a flashlight all the time. Let's hope they learned from their mistakes (although even the new models they just put out still have huge bezels.

Honor 9 vs OnePlus 5

GSMArena side-by-side specifications comparison
I'm posting this thread from the perspective of someone who owns and loves an Honor 8, and is having to evaluate these 2 devices as the primary options for my next phone.
Key differences:
LTE bands: H9 (Europe: 1,3,5,7,8,20) vs OP5 (1,2,3,4,5,7,8,12,17,18,19,20,25,26,28,29,30,38,39,40,41,66)
Body size: H9 (147.3 x 70.9 x 7.5) vs OP5 (154.2 x 74.1 x 7.3)
Screen size: H9 (5.15) vs OP5 (5.5)
Screen type: H9 (IPS) vs OP5 (AMOLED)
Chipset: H9 (Kirin) vs OP5 (Snapdragon)
Cameras: Objective differences are irrelevant for cameras, we'll just have to wait on side-by-side comparison reviews, preliminarily it looks like these may have similar quality.
Storage: Internal (same), MicroSD: H9 (Yes) vs OP5 (No)
Infrared: H9 (Yes) vs OP5 (No)
Key factors:
- The Honor 8 was significantly less expensive than the OnePlus 3T; the Honor 9 is the same price as the OnePlus 5.
- The Honor 8 had a significantly better camera than the OP 3T; the Honor 9 is looking to be similar to the OP 5.
- Price: The Honor 8 was about 25-50% less expensive than the OP 3T; the Honor 9 is the same price as the OP 5.
- No MicroSD slot in the OP 5
It's unfortunate, because I really like my Honor 8, but I don't think the Honor 9 is a good purchase compared to the OnePlus 5. Pretty much all over the internet and social media I have told people to buy an Honor 8 (and instead of a OnePlus 3T) but I don't think I can carry over that recommendation to this generation of phones. If the Honor 9 launches in the US with appropriate LTE bands and at a price 25-30% lower than the OnePlus 5, it will be a close decision on what to buy. But at the current pricing, I think the OnePlus 5 is the clear choice between the two.
Thoughts? What are you all planning to do?

I used to have the Honor 8, but I had to get rid of it because I couldn't stand the software, even after Android 7 update. I was able to simply swipe past the Android Device Manager lost phone screen because it wasn't integrated right with EMUI. There were other issues like bluetooth delayed syncing. The software experience from stock Android is just so much better so I would recommend waiting for the OnePlus 5T in October.
I ended up buying the Note 5 Duos after using the G6, after deciding to not get the S8. All of these four phones (Note5, G6, Honor9, OP5) have the same price and should be considered. It's crazy because I found I tolerate the Samsung UI with Android 7 more than LG, and some of the features like changing to 720p and 1080p resolution are killer features for me.

Telperion said:
GSMArena side-by-side specifications comparison
I'm posting this thread from the perspective of someone who owns and loves an Honor 8, and is having to evaluate these 2 devices as the primary options for my next phone.
Key differences:
LTE bands: H9 (Europe: 1,3,5,7,8,20) vs OP5 (1,2,3,4,5,7,8,12,17,18,19,20,25,26,28,29,30,38,39,40,41,66)
Body size: H9 (147.3 x 70.9 x 7.5) vs OP5 (154.2 x 74.1 x 7.3)
Screen size: H9 (5.15) vs OP5 (5.5)
Screen type: H9 (IPS) vs OP5 (AMOLED)
Chipset: H9 (Kirin) vs OP5 (Snapdragon)
Cameras: Objective differences are irrelevant for cameras, we'll just have to wait on side-by-side comparison reviews, preliminarily it looks like these may have similar quality.
Storage: Internal (same), MicroSD: H9 (Yes) vs OP5 (No)
Infrared: H9 (Yes) vs OP5 (No)
Key factors:
- The Honor 8 was significantly less expensive than the OnePlus 3T; the Honor 9 is the same price as the OnePlus 5.
- The Honor 8 had a significantly better camera than the OP 3T; the Honor 9 is looking to be similar to the OP 5.
- Price: The Honor 8 was about 25-50% less expensive than the OP 3T; the Honor 9 is the same price as the OP 5.
- No MicroSD slot in the OP 5
It's unfortunate, because I really like my Honor 8, but I don't think the Honor 9 is a good purchase compared to the OnePlus 5. Pretty much all over the internet and social media I have told people to buy an Honor 8 (and instead of a OnePlus 3T) but I don't think I can carry over that recommendation to this generation of phones. If the Honor 9 launches in the US with appropriate LTE bands and at a price 25-30% lower than the OnePlus 5, it will be a close decision on what to buy. But at the current pricing, I think the OnePlus 5 is the clear choice between the two.
Thoughts? What are you all planning to do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
for me... the microSD killed any chance of me getting a OnePlus 5. in some parts of the world (like where i live), mobile data isn't cheap and fast. doing things "on the cloud" just don't cut it. so, i'd love to have as much storage as possible. also, with camera now able to record at high resolution, it will take up space. i'm not the type that wanna copy out my videos every few days. i can be lazy and do it once every few weeks or so. so, again, storage means a lot to me and having microSD is wonderful.
but... i'm also a AMOLED fan. sadly, i think only time i've seen huawei/ honor with amoled is on the P9Plus. i do hope huawei will look into manufacturing AMOLED screens. having said that, between microSD and AMOLED. i would pick microSD anytime.
one consideration that probably weighs in as important is the size. 5.5" vs 5.2" is quite a big difference.

I've heard very good of OP5, despite I don't like they've increased the price so much. Previous versions were more tight. The starting price of 500€ is not good.
The Honor 9 looks good option, cheaper (449€) and including a sports band. About performance and camera still not sure...
OP5 has 6 GB of RAM and AMOLED display.
Honor 9 has micro SD card support, infrared and is cheaper.
Still considering Xiaomi Mi 6... Which also has infrared, 6 GB of RAM and it's the cheapest of all three.
Thoughts please?

mdabar said:
The Honor 9 looks good option, cheaper (449€) and including a sports band. About performance and camera still not sure...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like sports band action is over, there is no more banner on vmall.eu store.
In mean time you still could have 30 EUR cashback until 4 of August. Which brings price of phone to 400 EUR.

I had 3 oneplus 5's within 14 days and all had issues so sold the 3rd and got the honor 9 and couldn't be happier
Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

master_of_shadows said:
Looks like sports band action is over, there is no more banner on vmall.eu store.
In mean time you still could have 30 EUR cashback until 4 of August. Which brings price of phone to 400 EUR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's weird, that may be the case for Germany... In Spanish shop you still have the band, nothing about the cashbacks.
Anyway cashback is not common practice in Spain.
I definitely think I'll take this phone.
What about battery? Are speakers good enough?
I've heard that screen is not enough bright. Can you confirm/deny?
Thanks guys for comments. ?

mdabar said:
It's weird, that may be the case for Germany... In Spanish shop you still have the band, nothing about the cashbacks.
Anyway cashback is not common practice in Spain.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, you right. Cashback is only for Germany. I thought it is EU wide action, sorry.
---------- Post added at 11:35 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:34 AM ----------
DoobyDroid said:
I had 3 oneplus 5's within 14 days and all had issues so sold the 3rd and got the honor 9 and couldn't be happier
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What was the issues? And how exactly Honor 9 is better for you than OP5?

master_of_shadows said:
Oh, you right. Cashback is only for Germany. I thought it is EU wide action, sorry.
---------- Post added at 11:35 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:34 AM ----------
What was the issues? And how exactly Honor 9 is better for you than OP5?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Random request boots, heat issues, connectivity issues, judder scrolling,
Honor 9 for me better to hold very smooth looks nicer as well
Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

For long term development of community, OP5 is far far better than Honor 9...

jerryhou85 said:
For long term development of community, OP5 is far far better than Honor 9...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe for the short-term, but not necessarily for the longterm. OnePlus has been a real trend (very attractive) for the past years. They have suddenly increased a lot the price, so lot of people will see it a little bit less interesting.
However Honor is proving to be right on the mid-range price but with good results and feedback from people (from what I've heard/read). I'm quite recent to check about Honor (and probably will buy it this week) but first thing I saw in here is that you have a few ROMs for the Honor 8. It means that we will probably have even more for the Honor 9... and once you have CM or Lineage more will definitely come. :good:

jerryhou85 said:
For long term development of community, OP5 is far far better than Honor 9...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd rather have a phone that works properly, development will grow with time let's not forget it's only just been released and didn't even need an update on release and still hasn't as it doesn't need atm everything working as it should 3 updates the op5 had from release and still problems, I lost faith in 1+ after 3 devices all had different issues, and support is lame,
Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk

mdabar said:
Maybe for the short-term, but not necessarily for the longterm. OnePlus has been a real trend (very attractive) for the past years. They have suddenly increased a lot the price, so lot of people will see it a little bit less interesting.
However Honor is proving to be right on the mid-range price but with good results and feedback from people (from what I've heard/read). I'm quite recent to check about Honor (and probably will buy it this week) but first thing I saw in here is that you have a few ROMs for the Honor 8. It means that we will probably have even more for the Honor 9... and once you have CM or Lineage more will definitely come. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, that's case by case, though. Honor 8 certainly has received more love than its litter brother, Honor 6X. Honor 6X's Android N is not coming out soon due to no source yet from HUAWEI for EMUI5.
Huawei is releasing many devices a year, not sure what is their detailed policy...
---------- Post added at 03:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:05 PM ----------
DoobyDroid said:
I'd rather have a phone that works properly, development will grow with time let's not forget it's only just been released and didn't even need an update on release and still hasn't as it doesn't need atm everything working as it should 3 updates the op5 had from release and still problems, I lost faith in 1+ after 3 devices all had different issues, and support is lame,
Sent from my STF-L09 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand what you mean, especially after recent OP2 Android N update dropped, but at this moment, 1+ still has better developer community than HUAWEI Honor. But things may change in future, which is not clear yet.

jerryhou85 said:
Well, that's case by case, though. Honor 8 certainly has received more love than its litter brother, Honor 6X. Honor 6X's Android N is not coming out soon due to no source yet from HUAWEI for EMUI5.
Huawei is releasing many devices a year, not sure what is their detailed policy...
---------- Post added at 03:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:05 PM ----------
I understand what you mean, especially after recent OP2 Android N update dropped, but at this moment, 1+ still has better developer community than HUAWEI Honor. But things may change in future, which is not clear yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my experience many devices per year is not a good strategy... unless you have the muscle of Samsung for instance.
I look to Elephone... awful experiences always (different people), is there is always something that won't work after a short period. And there is no support at all. With every new device, the promise a lot: updates, custom ROMs,... nothing of that has ever happened. Devices are simply forgotten after the launching.
Xiaomi is somehow different, since they keep updating MIUI for their devices even after some long time. My Redmi Note 2 Prime is still getting updates (despite still using Android 5.0.2 as the core).
About OP I've heard mixed reactions. A friend is really happy with the OP5, not a single issue for the time being. For every model people tells me "When I got it, it wasn't working very fine, I was even thinking on selling or returning it, but after the official OTA update, it's a new phone and now it's working amazingly well"... but still they increased the price too much.
For the moment I've received and read very good feedback about Honor. So I'll take the bet! I'm travelling now, so will order just before arriving home next week

mdabar said:
In my experience many devices per year is not a good strategy... unless you have the muscle of Samsung for instance.
I look to Elephone... awful experiences always (different people), is there is always something that won't work after a short period. And there is no support at all. With every new device, the promise a lot: updates, custom ROMs,... nothing of that has ever happened. Devices are simply forgotten after the launching.
Xiaomi is somehow different, since they keep updating MIUI for their devices even after some long time. My Redmi Note 2 Prime is still getting updates (despite still using Android 5.0.2 as the core).
About OP I've heard mixed reactions. A friend is really happy with the OP5, not a single issue for the time being. For every model people tells me "When I got it, it wasn't working very fine, I was even thinking on selling or returning it, but after the official OTA update, it's a new phone and now it's working amazingly well"... but still they increased the price too much.
For the moment I've received and read very good feedback about Honor. So I'll take the bet! I'm travelling now, so will order just before arriving home next week
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, good luck for you on Honor. :highfive:
You will find EMUI is different from MIUI, but not a lot. And HUAWEI does have some unique apps to try on. :laugh:

Hahaha thanks @jerryhou85 I really hope to enjoy it

I don't buy phones, where the screen is build in upside-down. Waited so long for OP5 since I am a OPO user but I started a collection thread about bugs and decided to go with Honor
Sent from my Honor 9 using XDA Labs

Oneplus 6 alternatives

So we all know the op6 is coming soon and many of us are hoping to upgrade our outdated devices,but with Oneplus success in the market in recent years, their prices are continuosly going up,,maybe by small amounts on each phone,may be a big rise with the op6,we don't know yet
Anyway.What if the op6 launches with a price you cant afford.
What alternative devices have you in mind.
I have more or less decided that I will get a nokia 7 plus if the op6 is too expensive because it has what I need.Big battery and promise of frequent updates.Ive considered the honor view 10 and mi mix 2s also
What other mid to high range devices are you considering if tbe op6 is out of reach ?

ASUS Zenfone 5

only galaxy s9+ with unlocked bootloader.

The Nokia 7 Plus is going to be way cheaper than the OP6. It's cheaper than the OP5 and OP5T.
At its price, I don't think you can beat the Nokia 7 Plus but then again you need to consider what is or isn't important to you. OnePlus will have an awesome Development scene which there isn't with Nokia (unless it starts to develop and is contingent on unlocked bootloader and kernel sources being released).
Sent from my OnePlus 5 using XDA Labs

rav101 said:
The Nokia 7 Plus is going to be way cheaper than the OP6. It's cheaper than the OP5 and OP5T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about the hardware? How can you ever bring this as an alternative?
Snapdragon 660? 4gig ram?
In this case xiaomi mi a1 is better, Android one

Huawei honor 10
Xiaomi mi 7

rav101 said:
The Nokia 7 Plus is going to be way cheaper than the OP6. It's cheaper than the OP5 and OP5T.
At its price, I don't think you can beat the Nokia 7 Plus but then again you need to consider what is or isn't important to you. OnePlus will have an awesome Development scene which there isn't with Nokia (unless it starts to develop and is contingent on unlocked bootloader and kernel sources being released).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont know where you fo your shopping mate but ehere I am to he 5 t is €499,
The 7+ is retailling at 3€399,not a massive difference.I sgree that Oneplus is more developer friendly but I would put the nokia 7 plus in that mid range section snd it will surely be much cheaper than tbe op6

manus31 said:
I dont know where you fo your shopping mate but ehere I am to he 5 t is €499,
The 7+ is retailling at 3€399,not a massive difference.I sgree that Oneplus is more developer friendly but I would put the nokia 7 plus in that mid range section snd it will surely be much cheaper than tbe op6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the UK the Nokia 7 Plus is £349.99. The 64gb OnePlus 5T is £449.
My logic is that the OnePlus flagships have been going up around £50 each year so the OnePlus 6 is likely to start at £499 and you were asking for the difference between the OnePlus 6 and alternatives. The Nokia 7 Plus is 30% cheaper.
Edit: I would note that I think the Nokia 7 Plus looks like a really good phone and would be tempted by it too.
Potentially consider the Asus ZenFone 5Z as another alternative but I think that is £499 also. If you're looking for the 845 processor, I can't really think of any other good options. Depends on what's important to you.
Sent from my OnePlus 5 using XDA Labs

rav101 said:
In the UK the Nokia 7 Plus is £349.99. The 64gb OnePlus 5T is £449.
My logic is that the OnePlus flagships have been going up around £50 each year so the OnePlus 6 is likely to start at £499 and you were asking for the difference between the OnePlus 6 and alternatives. The Nokia 7 Plus is 30% cheaper.
Edit: I would note that I think the Nokia 7 Plus looks like a really good phone and would be tempted by it too.
Potentially consider the Asus ZenFone 5Z as another alternative but I think that is £499 also. If you're looking for the 845 processor, I can't really think of any other good options. Depends on what's important to you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes absolutely you are right,20 to 30% difference in price of 5t and 7+ depending what country your in.It will be interesting to see what happens with the op6,but as you say it will certainly be higher.
I have been researching a lot of different devices to replace my op3 lately.I look at all the reviews,watch the youtube videos and join the forums to see what users are saying.
If I was to buy a phone now based on hardware alone and value for money Id go for the Honor view 10 with the kerin 970,but Honor are poor with updates.The Zenphone 5z looks great,but I dont think it will be available in UK/Ireland till July.It will though be cheaper than the op6 and 5t.
The Nokia 7+ is out May 2nd on Amazon,Im hoping the op6 is announced before then so I can make an informed decision,but could be ridiculous prices in which case Ill happily go for the 7+ which should be more than good enough for day to day use, especially as a non gamer.I don't play around with Roms as much as I use to and will be happy eith tbe long battery life and regular updates.
I do like oxygen os though and Oneplus are great with updates and theres a great community.Will be interesting to see what happrns within tbe next month or two

Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S.
Better: Camera, no notch, big screen, Project Treble (i'm not sure), and price imo
Worse: IPS screen, no 3.5mm Jack, Almost the same battery of the OP5
EDIT: I was wondering and just realized that every year, OnePlus makes a very well made flagship phone with latest soc, etc. and little additions (dual camera, now water resistance) it's all nice and good. The only deal thing is the price. I like OnePlus, (had the 3 and now the 5) and i understand that they make better and better every year, so it's obvious that it needs to cost more. I'll definitely buy the 6, in the end there are no alternatives sadly

Bought the pixel 2 xl. It's a nice camera.

sdmackie said:
Bought the pixel 2 xl. It's a nice camera.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what smartphones are turning into: cameras with mobile functionality ;-/

temporarium said:
That's what smartphones are turning into: cameras with mobile functionality ;-/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
4 lenses ftw

Anyone considering the Essential Phone 2 (which I guess will launch in September 2018) as a viable option to the OP 6 ?

SlyUK said:
Anyone considering the Essential Phone 2 (which I guess will launch in September 2018) as a viable option to the OP 6 ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have, unfortunately in Europe even the PH-1 isn't available at this point.

Donnie Sins said:
I would have, unfortunately in Europe even the PH-1 isn't available at this point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the UK and I'm hoping for the Essential Phone 2 to come, otherwise pretty sure it will be the OnePlus 6, if it doesn't. I live in hope.

wilsondrake said:
Hoping to get the OnePlus in my country
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What country are you in? Has it not had OnePlus before?
Sent from my HTC 10 using XDA Labs

cultofluna said:
Huawei honor 10
Xiaomi mi 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same here looks like the 6 is going to be too expensive for me and the honor 10 does look really inviting now that it has been announced

If OnePlus 6 is a flagship killer, let's see what are available at the flagship level in my country at 64GB variant
835:
Pixel 2 XL - Rs.57,995
LG V30+ - Rs.44,990 (Only 128GB)
Nokia 8 Sirocco - Rs.49,900
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 - Rs.67,900
Mi Mix 2 - Rs.32,999 (Only 128GB)
845:
OnePlus 6 - Expected around Rs.35,000
Samsung Galaxy s9/s9+ - Rs.57,900 / Rs.64,900
Kirin 970:
Honor v10 - Rs.29,999 (Only 128GB)
Huawei P20 Pro - Expected around Rs.50,000
Huawei P20 - Expected around Rs.30,000
The only problem which I see out for OP6 is the territory it's venturing into. Those who are spending north of 30k won't mind spending extra for getting what they needed. Mediocre Camera will definitely kill OP6 on arrival since every single unit there gives you the best. If Huawei P20 Pro comes around 40k. It'll cannibalize OP6 hands down. But i think Huawei P20 might be in OP6 territory and might give some serious trouble for them.

_MartyMan_ said:
Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S.
Better: Camera, no notch, big screen, Project Treble (i'm not sure), and price imo
Worse: IPS screen, no 3.5mm Jack, Almost the same battery of the OP5
EDIT: I was wondering and just realized that every year, OnePlus makes a very well made flagship phone with latest soc, etc. and little additions (dual camera, now water resistance) it's all nice and good. The only deal thing is the price. I like OnePlus, (had the 3 and now the 5) and i understand that they make better and better every year, so it's obvious that it needs to cost more. I'll definitely buy the 6, in the end there are no alternatives sadly
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For customization, I agree. OnePlus just does that better than all the other Android based smartphones out there. For other features though, I'm getting less and less impressed by their offerings each year, and when they get too expensive, I'll simply stop getting them,. I'll probably still get the 6 though, but if their prices get as high as iPhone level, I'm out.
I know it's not a new phone, as it's been out a while, but I quite liked the Razer Phone. So might get one of those if the OP6 doesn't impress me enough. But let's wait and see.

Redmi Note 7 Pro Is On The Way! Time To Upgrade?

Hello Ladies & Gentleman...
Long Time No Chat With.. My XRN5-AI has been doing quite well Stock-Rooted.. So, there has not been much for me to say here..
But.....
The Redmi Note 7 Pro is in the pipe!
And.. It looks SHARP..
Circle Notch
Snapdragon 660
48 MP Camera
USB-C
Hold The Price Point... and I'm sure it will be a winner.. Anyway check out one of the 1st Videos on UTube right here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS7gkeZKxYs

Meh, I'm happy with Note 5 and plus don't like notch phones.

notch part is a no no for me. ill pass

Let's wait for camera tests

Well I don't find any Good reason to upgrade to Redmi Note 7
It's still more of a incremental upgrade, SD660 & SD636 are basically same except for lower clock speeds and GPU. And in my daily usage it works great. Battery is capacity is same in both and it runs easily for a day with heavy usage.
I am ok with the 18:9 display with bezels than jump on the Notch trend. And for the Camera, with Arnova Gcam and some patches (nHappyman/BBD) it takes great shots in daylight. Glass back is premium, but metal body of RN5 isn't bad either. It's not even a year since RN5 launched here, still in warranty.
Only great thing to upgrade will be USB C and DAC.
And Where else will I get such Great Development for a Phone with almost all toms available & Thug Devs ?

Not Really..
faiso333 said:
Well I don't find any Good reason to upgrade to Redmi Note 7
It's still more of a incremental upgrade, SD660 & SD636 are basically same except for lower clock speeds and GPU...
I am ok with the 18:9 display with bezels than jump on the Notch trend. And for the Camera, with Arnova Gcam and some patches.
Glass back is premium, but metal body of RN5 isn't bad either.
It's not even a year since RN5 launched here, still in warranty.
Only great thing to upgrade will be USB C and DAC.
And Where else will I get Development with Thug Devs ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You Sound Happy...
You Also Sound Like Someone Who Just Invested Their Money In The Note 5..
I Agree.. It's a GREAT phone... For It's Time..
But.... Said To Say.... It is now a " 2 Generation Old Phone*....
My plan was.. to sell mine. ( Upgrade Cash Almost There..) But now, I'm just going to throw it in a cabinet ( A 4/64 I bought new for $199.00 USD )
Because Resale Value only nets about $0.55 Cents-To-A-$1.00 (USD) and being 2 Generations Old.. The Resale Value is only going to Decrease.
You use the term "Incremental Upgrades"... That's Pretty Much What All Models Do...
And Development Will Be Just As Strong... This is not the Note 6.. That, was / is a B.S. device IMO... Nothing was done except to add a 2nd sensor and a notch..
The Note 7 is that Leap Forward.. to compete with the growing "Bang For Your Buck" devices coming in waves in the Midrange/ Upper Midrange Segment.
Huawei 8x.. Samsung M10 / M20.. Asus Pro M2... Realme 2... Lenovo Z5 Pro... all have to watch out for the Redmi Note 7 Pro / AI
This one's specs indeed raise the bar.. :victory:

RaiderWill said:
You Sound Happy...
You Also Sound Like Someone Who Just Invested Their Money In The Note 5..
I Agree.. It's a GREAT phone... For It's Time..
But.... Said To Say.... It is now a " 2 Generation Old Phone*....
My plan was.. to sell mine. ( Upgrade Cash Almost There..) But now, I'm just going to throw it in a cabinet ( A 4/64 I bought new for $199.00 USD )
Because Resale Value only nets about $0.55 Cents-To-A-$1.00 (USD) and being 2 Generations Old.. The Resale Value is only going to Decrease.
You use the term "Incremental Upgrades"... That's Pretty Much What All Models Do...
And Development Will Be Just As Strong... This is not the Note 6.. That, was / is a B.S. device IMO... Nothing was done except to add a 2nd sensor and a notch..
The Note 7 is that Leap Forward.. to compete with the growing "Bang For Your Buck" devices coming in waves in the Midrange/ Upper Midrange Segment.
Huawei 8x.. Samsung M10 / M20.. Asus Pro M2... Realme 2... Lenovo Z5 Pro... all have to watch out for the Redmi Note 7 Pro / AI
This one's specs indeed raise the bar.. :victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although you're not wrong, but what I feel is, if you gotta upgrade, upgrade to something in the SD8XX range,whether 845/855. There's not really much point in jumping from a mid-ranger to mid-ranger device. You'd never really feel much of a difference in performance except in build quality ofcourse.

Entitlement
coolakshansh said:
Although you're not wrong, but what I feel is, if you gotta upgrade, upgrade to something in the SD8XX range,whether 845/855. There's not really much point in jumping from a mid-ranger to mid-ranger device. You'd never really feel much of a difference in performance except in build quality ofcourse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're Entitled To Your Opinion...
And.. I Respect That.
But, let me give you an example...
I'm very fortunate to have a fairly late model Toyota 4-Door Sedan paid off in full.
Does that mean in 2020 when I plan on buying my next vehicle.. I should "Upgrade" to something more Expensive? Faster? because it needs to be a more powerful V-6 than the 301 horsepower V-6 I currently have?
Or.. can I move up because I like the way the newer model looks? or the Technology that it possesses? Even though the power may be the same or slightly better..
How About Value?
That's important.. right?
At what point do you move on from something when you are getting diminishing value... does the Note 5 Pro / AI still do the job? Yes. Does My Toyota still get me where I need to go? Yes.
But that does not mean if I have the means.. I would not buy another equal model that has been updated with better specs / options..
That applies to my Toyota and my Redmi device. :victory:

I will keep my device as long as 5G network establish everywhere like 4G network

Better buy Oneplus or Huawei

dekson9 said:
Better buy Oneplus or Huawei
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really same category.. You are talking here 200usd vs 500usd.. then better buy pixel, or mate 20 pro for 1000usd + with this logic..Also huaweii is really shady and dont allow bootloader unlock anymore, so for a lot of people here its not an option.

No Shame There..
SunilSuni said:
I will keep my device as long as 5G network establish everywhere like 4G network
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah Buddy..
I can't blame you there.
There is not a thing wrong with the XRN5 Pro / AI.. ESPECIALLY running Stock.. Batterylife is just amazing... I can't kill it in a day.
I'm still on 9.5.17... and will NEVER leave it as long as I use this device.. I am rooted for a couple of apps and TWRP for backup but that's it.
After seeing the "Hole Punch" trend that is going to the 2019 thing to do.. I'm not impressed.
So, for me an upgrade has been narrowed down to the One Plus 7 or Mi Mix 3s , 4, 3+... whatever they are going to call their Snapdragon 855 version.
I 'll keep the XRN5-AI in it's box.. and use it for those wild nights in the streets... :angel:

For me I think it is too early to jump to redmi note 7 from Redmi note 5 ai.
2019 is the year of 'midrange smartphones 3rd World War' we just have to see the war unfold till 2nd or 3rd quarter before leaving RN5 for another midrange phone.
The major con with waiting is resell value! If you sell your RN5 now, you will make more money than selling it in the next 3 months with tons of midrange flooding the market.
Anyways, that's not a problem for me, I have a trick of selling my smartphones costlier than I bought them but that trick requires patience.... ?
Major Pros
RN5 can match most midrange phones in real life usage.
If you hate notches RN5 is added bonus and I hate notches even the punch hole ?
With Pixel 3 GCAM working already you won't miss much on photo aspect.
Conclusion:
If you intend to sell your own RN5 and you love notches do it now!
If you so can't live with notch keep your RN5 and wait a little... Better things than Redmi Note 7 can be ahead...
If you want to move from midrange to flagship the answer is wait too!
USB type C is good but isn't a deal breaker for me, my OTG drive is still micro USB but an adapter can solve the problem

The phone itself looks gimmicky. But i will give it a try, hopefully a review will come out first.

Note 7 Pro is Snapdragon 675

For me not interesting, I have my Redmi Note 5 just for 2 and a half months now and I usually use a new phone for at least 2 years. And I'm totally satisfied with this phone.

xell75 said:
For me not interesting, I have my Redmi Note 5 just for 2 and a half months now and I usually use a new phone for at least 2 years. And I'm totally satisfied with this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Me too. But if its really a big jump I mean hardware, photos, etc... Why not? :laugh:
Because Note 6 compare to 5, not worth it at all.

Erpe7 said:
Me too. But if its really a big jump I mean hardware, photos, etc... Why not? :laugh:
Because Note 6 compare to 5, not worth it at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah maybe, but for me, be it a normal Notch or a waterdrop Notch, that is an downgrade for me, since I'm a total Notch Hater/avoider. And USB-Type C is not an must have for me either, since I not owned a single USB C Device ever.

xell75 said:
Yeah maybe, but for me, be it a normal Notch or a waterdrop Notch, that is an downgrade for me, since I'm a total Notch Hater/avoider. And USB-Type C is not an must have for me either, since I not owned a single USB C Device ever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not own either ^^'
Didn't check... 3.5 jack desapir?

Erpe7 said:
I do not own either ^^'
Didn't check... 3.5 jack desapir?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This site says that the 3,5mm jack still exist, even though there is USB C.

Best redmi note 5 pro/ai midrange phone upgrade not more than ~$230

Ok, Whyred is a solid midrange, great dev community, tons of custom Roms & kernels, no notch and LED notification light... :laugh:
But there will always come the time where you'll have to move on. Redmi Note 6 didn't cut it for me, Note 7 didn't bring much difference in my own opinion but the Redmi Note 8 Series has caught my attention.
I am still not comfortable with the pro version with MTK processor.
Then there is the K20 and the K20 pro, Mi 9 and Mi 9t but I am not planning to spend more than $230 on midrange phone for now.
The thing I will look out for is screen - preferably AMOLED
Good CPU?GPU that is dev friendly and way better than whyred.
Battery 4000mah and above.
I am looking at Note 8pro but want to wait a bit to see more reviews and Dev community response.
Until then, my whyred is still kicking fine with Havoc OS and Kangaroo X OC kernel and GCAM 6.3 working perfectly.
Want to hear your own view.
WHAT'S YOUR NEXT PHONE AFTER WHYRED?

A Xiaomi for sure. Which one? I don't know. As long as my RN5 is in good shape and fit my needs, I'll keep it. I really need the call recording function, and with EMUI you have it, thus no android one for me. And I want to stay with Redmi phisolophy : good feature, good hardware and good price. Perhaps redmi note 9. [emoji4]
Envoyé de mon Redmi Note 5 en utilisant Tapatalk

Well there is a phone suggestion thread to ask whats your next phone
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1846277
Right now happy with Redmi Note 5 Pro and will not buy any phone till 2020 (or 2021) My next phone will be from Xiaomi only, Maybe i will consider buying Mi A4 or Redmi Note 9 (If it comes with 5G)

I use my phone over 8 months now, Headphone Jack, no Notch, long lasting battery and a big screen, with very decent performant hardware. I will use my phone at least 2 years before I buy a new one. And hopefully when I buy a new one, there will be a mid range phone in the same price range as the Note 5 without any Notch. (I didn't like any types of Notches)
Sent from my Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 using XDA Labs

My note 5 is an amazing device and does everything I need it to to I doubt it will be replaced for a long while unless something special catches my eye
I recently purchased a note 7 and although it is a slight upgrade to the note 5 it's extra speed is hardly noticeable at all in day to day use I do like the 7's screen a little more even though I hate the notch.

Personally I'm planning to import a Redmi K20 Pro from China on 11.11 (big sales at that day), costs $300 right now

renoxtv said:
Personally I'm planning to import a Redmi K20 Pro from China on 11.11 (big sales at that day), costs $300 right now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HOW can you and I be thinking the same thing?
I watched Jerryrig durability test on K20 pro right now and realised it doesn't have micro SD card slot
But 128Gb is nice. I am still not planning on spending $300 on a midrange phone since my whyred still serves me faithfully.

I will buy a new phone after 5 years or until I can no longer get the latest android version through custom ROMs.

I bought my Rn5pro 3 months ago and while the Rn6 and Rn7 are available but I choose it and really like it, no plan to buy another one for 2 or 3 years :laugh:

hameedf said:
I bought my Rn5pro 3 months ago and while the Rn6 and Rn7 are available but I choose it and really like it, no plan to buy another one for 2 or 3 years :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally, the upgrade provided by Redmi not 6 and 7 are not worth it. Even the Redmi note 8 (non pro) version is not a worthy upgrade.
The Redmi Note 8pro is a no for me because of MTK chipset could have been a good upgrade.
So, I'll still have to wait for poco F2 or Redmi Note 9 series

A substantial upgrade isn't really in order in that price point yet. It'll be a minor upgrade at best. Go with Note 7 pro. Has good dev support, got USB-C and processor is a decent bump too.

bhargavbuddy said:
A substantial upgrade isn't really in order in that price point yet. It'll be a minor upgrade at best. Go with Note 7 pro. Has good dev support, got USB-C and processor is a decent bump too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SD675 is not a decent processor but high-class processor in midrange

SunilSuni said:
SD675 is not a decent processor but high-class processor in midrange
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still don't feel the substantial need to upgrade
To another SD 6** series bc whyred with OC Kernels is doing just fine in performance dept.
Would have gone for Mi 9t but lack of SD card and the Cost of 128Gb type puts me off. Not to talk about missing IR and front facing flash. But I love the Amoled screen but that won't be enough bc I don't like pop up camera. There is also poor development for Mi 9t & K20 here on Xda..
Redmi note 8 would have been the best upgrade if not for MTK Soc. If I sell my whyred, I might be forced to get 7pro while waiting for Redmi note 9 series to drop prices

Having done plenty of research and fully analyzed what I needed for my next midrange upgrade I will place my top priority for the next below and the next option.
#1 Pricey - Value for money is another reason why it will be Xiaomi but Realme is giving them a go in the midrange value for money. I still feel $250 range of phone should be fine for most purpose even strong gaming nowadays.
#2 Display - as a long time Samsung Galaxy Note user (Note 2 & Note 4) whyred screen didn't just cut it for me plus me noticing ghost image on the 3rd day of usage. The next phone has to be a clear upgrade on my Redmi note 5 ai
#3 Camera - decent camera is sure banker. Thanks to Gcam won't be a big problem.
#4 4000mah battery + Quick charge
#5 Not a pop up camera - I hate notches too but tear drop is fair in my eyes.. Dot is worse, Apple/pixel 3 type is worst. I don't like pin hole too. Seriously fell in love with Meizu screen design.
#6 sufficient LTE bands - band 3,7 and 28 are great but can live without (28)
Here are the top 3 I considered since Redmi note 8pro ruled itself out thanks to MTK processor. Mi 9t was close but outside my budget of $250, no SD card and that pop up camera... Redmi note 7 pro could have won the race if not for LCD screen
TOP 3 Considerations
#3 Realme 3 Pro - got almost everything I needed apart from the screen is still not an upgrade to my whyred. Still a good upgrade.
#2 Meizu 16XS - That Amoled screen and design is what I needed right now.
#1 Mi A3 - this one got my attention after all considerations. Super AMOLED, global LTE bands triple camera and stock android? Oh yeah! Bring it on... Till I say 720p screen. It is still not easy to say if it's an upgrade on whyred considering it's AMOLED but that resolution made me restless and led me to my final decision...
C
A
N
Y
O
U
G
U
E
S
S
I
T
?
O
K
A
Y
!
H
E
R
E
I
S
I
T.
Xiaomi Mi CC9 is my next upgrade!
It has it's draw backs (like China Rom and less Int'l LTE bands) it fits my bill and ticks all my boxes.
The Good news is - CC9 global version is launching next week (16th September 2019) in Spain but rebranded as MI 9 lite.
Even without the global version, I'll still get CC9. But I'll have to wait a little to see how the Sept 16 goes. Yeah I did a lot of considerations, and research to get here.
I hope this could help someone analyze better or make a better decision for their next phone.
Except something dramatic happens (which I'll let you know if it did) Mi CC9 with ($250 (deal on Aliexpress) is my best decision for now

I am done with miui.... Moreover stock android 10 now comes with dark mode and miui like gestures... So thinking to go with a stock android phone next.... I was eagerly waiting for A3, but then the 720p thing happened... For time being am waiting for a worthy stock android phone below 14k... Not sure, but Nokia 8.1 may b the nxt one... Let see how its priced during big billion days and Great Indian festival...

rashied said:
I am done with miui.... Moreover stock android 10 now comes with dark mode and miui like gestures... So thinking to go with a stock android phone next.... I was eagerly waiting for A3, but then the 720p thing happened... For time being am waiting for a worthy stock android phone below 14k... Not sure, but Nokia 8.1 may b the nxt one... Let see how its priced during big billion days and Great Indian festival...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think Its better to wait for a phone launching with Android 10

k20 Pro or simple. Most probably I would go for simple 9T. But I will wait for dev community and see for which phone out of these two(s) their love will go.

SunilSuni said:
I think Its better to wait for a phone launching with Android 10
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a great advice but the reason I joined xda is to get the latest android version (custom ROMs) and never depended on OEMs. But some OEMs are now great with software updates.
I usually go for SD processor not more than 1 year old with great dev community that way you might be getting updates for 2+ years after the OEM drops the device. I usually don't use phone more than 1 year or at most 2 years after which I resell (because I take good care of my phones) add some money and buy a better one.
The mi 9 lite (rebranded) Mi CC9 was launched today in Spain for €319 6/64G that will buy me a mi 9t (with better processor) and left with some change.
The way Xiaomi prices there device can be confusing.

Awais Malik said:
k20 Pro or simple. Most probably I would go for simple 9T. But I will wait for dev community and see for which phone out of these two(s) their love will go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great idea!
9t is a great choice if not one of the best for midrangers but I feel K20 Pro is somehow in
Flagship range even though it has midrange price.
Either way, your choice is great and availability of funds will be the deciding factor.
Both devices have great dev community too

Bolumstar said:
Ok, Whyred is a solid midrange, great dev community, tons of custom Roms & kernels, no notch and LED notification light... :laugh:
But there will always come the time where you'll have to move on. Redmi Note 6 didn't cut it for me, Note 7 didn't bring much difference in my own opinion but the Redmi Note 8 Series has caught my attention.
I am still not comfortable with the pro version with MTK processor.
Then there is the K20 and the K20 pro, Mi 9 and Mi 9t but I am not planning to spend more than $230 on midrange phone for now.
The thing I will look out for is screen - preferably AMOLED
Good CPU?GPU that is dev friendly and way better than whyred.
Battery 4000mah and above.
I am looking at Note 8pro but want to wait a bit to see more reviews and Dev community response.
Until then, my whyred is still kicking fine with Havoc OS and Kangaroo X OC kernel and GCAM 6.3 working perfectly.
Want to hear your own view.
WHAT'S YOUR NEXT PHONE AFTER WHYRED?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go for mi a3