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still worth buying Pixel 2? [June 2018]

I need a new phone. I've been on a Note 4 for a while now, and it has reached its end-of-life. Done tons of research, and even when compared against the latest-and-greatest, the Pixel 2 still reviews well. It seems to be exactly what I am looking for. Even though the announcement of the Pixel 3 is right around the corner, it will mostly likely be late Oct / early Nov before consumers can get them in hand anyway. Five months is a long time, and I'm kind of ready to make a move now.
Is the Pixel 2 still the way to go? Do I have to bite the bullet and get another Samsung and get an s9? (I'm on AT&T btw, and I'm really really sick of having a carrier locked phone and waiting on AT&T to add bloatware to all the updates).
Would I be stupid to get the Pixel 2 today? Talk me into it / talk me out of it.

You'd be stupid to go Samsung again, that's for sure.
The Note 4 was arguably Samsung's peak for the Note line, and the S7 Edge the peak for their S line. Sure the new designs are fancy, but are fragile, and Samsung are horrendous when it comes to updates.
I'd suggest looking into a OnePlus 6 especially if you're sick of being carrier locked. Cheaper and more powerful than the Pixel 2, better in every way aside from speakers and camera if they are important to you.
That being said, I miss my Pixel 2 XL for the software as it's so damn smooth, but I do not miss the abysmal screen (Note 4 screen is better). So if you go Pixel 2, definitely get the smaller one with the nicer Samsung screen.

As opposed to what ? Samsung ? Pixel 2 still had several years of guaranteed updates and a smoother software interface with less bloat. I could understand MAYBE if you said an iPhone as most businesses are starting to use iOS and Apple supports their software for several years but against a Samsung that's just a joke.

My $0.02., develop your own pros/cons list as no one knows what's more important to you, than you. Example, I absolutely hate lag in software, probably an unhealthy amount... I also enjoy a headphone jack, but that's less important than software to _me_. At the end of the day, no phone is better at software and camera than the Pixel 2 (I have non-XL, coming from a Samsung Galaxy S3) and that's what I think ultimately creates the Pixel appeal because literally every time you use your phone, in an app, to take a pic, etc, you get that top-of-the-line software experience. How much does Samsung's superior hardware matter when apps lag or freeze and frustrate the user or they're running a 6-month old security patch level?
Also got mine 50% off during Verizon's Black Friday deal last year, figured the savings was worth the locked bootloader. Then we got an unlock method anyways in December so win-win, half price + unlocked BL now. Is the P2 worth full price to you? Who knows. But good luck whatever path you choose!

istrikerx said:
You'd be stupid to go Samsung again, that's for sure.
The Note 4 was arguably Samsung's peak for the Note line, and the S7 Edge the peak for their S line. Sure the new designs are fancy, but are fragile, and Samsung are horrendous when it comes to updates.
I'd suggest looking into a OnePlus 6 especially if you're sick of being carrier locked. Cheaper and more powerful than the Pixel 2, better in every way aside from speakers and camera if they are important to you.
That being said, I miss my Pixel 2 XL for the software as it's so damn smooth, but I do not miss the abysmal screen (Note 4 screen is better). So if you go Pixel 2, definitely get the smaller one with the nicer Samsung screen.
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I love my Pixel 2, but honestly the reason I bought it was because of the camera and because I thought there would be more rom development by this point, but mostly for the camera. I came from a oneplus 3t and I loved that phone so much. The development community was large and very active, and the phone's hardware was awesome.
If it wasn't for the Pixel 2's camera, I would've much rather upgraded to a newer oneplus device or even stuck with my 3t. But seriously, imo forget samsung and there locked ass bootloaders and stupidly overpriced phones.

I ditched Samsung (S6) finally last month and got the Pixel2. I am not much of a ROM flasher but root is very important to me. I was dreading going down in resolution but haven't regretted it once.

Is there any reason NOT to get the Pixel 2? What other phone is popular enough to receive continual updates, and easy to find accessories? Gives fast performance without lag-inducing bloat-ware?

I have an AT&T brand Note 8 and i really like the phone (wish i would have bought the unlocked version). But i like to root and flash roms occasionally and I'm pretty limited on the Note 8. Lucky me my work takes me all across Texas and i just happen to be where AT&T don't have service so i bought the Pixel 2 direct from Google and I'm loving it. I'm running it on Verizon. Super easy to unlock bootloader and root. I've only had it for about a month now and have only did one update (the June update) that got a little confusing but i figured it out (i downloaded it myself from Google instead of doing the ota). Personally, i think the camera on the Note 8 is better than the Pixel 2 camera, but i have both phones so i can always take pictures with the Note and it syncs to my Google photos and i have the pic on both phones. I do feel like the Pixel runs a lot smoother than the Note though. If you buy a Pixel, I'd suggest buying straight from Google so you don't have to worry about the bootloader, although i know carriers bundling things in makes it hard to pass up.

I believe it is still going strong and worth a buy.
Personally I don't the notch design which everyone is copying from Apple now.

In fact I bought one three weeks ago and I'm very happy with it. It's already running Android P DP3. I have considered a Huawei P20, but in the end went with the Pixel 2, mainly because of the fast updates and stock Android (I came from a Nexus 5X)
No regrets!

Meh not that many accessories...
mellojoe said:
Is there any reason NOT to get the Pixel 2? What other phone is popular enough to receive continual updates, and easy to find accessories? Gives fast performance without lag-inducing bloat-ware?
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Well, gotta disagree a little with you on the bolded section. The P2 just isn't sold in large enough numbers to get the choices in accessories like the mainstream iPhones, S9, etc. Otterbox Defender series only has 2 colors for crying out loud...
Edit: a word

It could be a winner for you if that's what you want...luv mine!

Personally I would wait and buy a cheaper, last year's phone in the meanwhile.
Pixel 2 series is great, but you still have to make hard compromises. If you want the 2018 screen quality, go pixel 2; if you want a 2018 battery life and screen size, go XL. But to me these 3 things are essential to a phone (ok maybe not the screen size). Considering the price being top of the lines even compared to an iPhone, and it is a 2017 phone (sort), I would wait.
Plus I got a feel that Pixel 3 may come with wireless charging and other technologies that would make using a phone more convenient. While Pixel 2 is just, with great camera. Not an important factor to me personally.

I just got it coming from a Huawei mate 10
Honestly its a great phone . I got the small version cuz I have a U11PLUS plus as my daily big screen phone. And it's awesome they have all these goodness in such a small phone can be handled one hand
At the moment u11plus plus 128gb and 6gb ram is going for 600$ ish on eBay. If u don't care about updates I would advice u to go with it. The camera with gcam performing better than the pixel believe it or not and the battery is the best in the market. Colours of amazing silver or red are phenomenal, nothing else comes close even the copycat p20 pro

Absolutely! I would recommend the Pixel 2 to anybody who asked I haven't even had any reason to want the XL - I've just got the 5" Pixel.
The software is essentially bloat-free (if you use the Google apps) and the experience is as polished as that of the iPhone.
(I'm not a fan of the iPhone but anybody who's used an Android can't deny on most phones the platform is bloated and a little half-assed in places.)
Plus, if you're big into getting the latest Android versions - we get the Android betas first (and they're supported for 2 years.)
And, once the 2 years are up, if you haven't got a new phone by then, I'd imagine there would be a ton of custom ROMs and such for the phone.
I'm planning on developing some ROMs for the Pixel 2 but I haven't for the moment because I have no reason to; the software is the best I've experienced, so I have no reason to mod the phone. (This is probably why there isn't much in the way of development going on for the phone)
In my opinion, the camera is excellent; I don't use it that much but when I do, it's fast, the quality is fantastic and I have trouble faulting it.
Finally, the battery life is great. As a student, I don't use my phone all day but relatively speaking, I'm quite a heavy user and I get about 3 hours more screen time than most others. Plus, as the phone charges to upwards of 80% in about 45 minutes, battery isn't really an issue. (5-10 minutes at an AC outlet can usually get it up to 20%.)
TL;DR: Particularly if you buy a phone for utility (rather than as a fashion statement), this phone is brilliant. It's the best Android device I've ever owned and, I think, one of the best on the market.
If you want something that looks a bit more flashy, I'd suggest the Pixel XL, though.

The give-a-friend 15% offer is making this pracitcally a no-brainer for me. That brings a brand new direct from Google Pixel2 to $550. That's basically the same price as low end or older model phones. Looks like I'll be picking one up. Thanks for the advice.
Feel free to add any more thoughts, tho, cause I'm sure as we get closer to the launch of the 3, more people are going to be asking for opnions on the 2 as a budget-friendly option.

jerryhou85 said:
I believe it is still going strong and worth a buy.
Personally I don't the notch design which everyone is copying from Apple now.
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Let me correct you sir. Copying from Essential ph-1, not apple. Apple copying that design from Essential ph-1. Get it right.

ivanov13 said:
Let me correct you sir. Copying from Essential ph-1, not apple. Apple copying that design from Essential ph-1. Get it right.
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Ahh, I see. Learned that recently, thanks.
This year Pixel 3 should be the choice if I want to change my phone again.

edwinek said:
In fact I bought one three weeks ago and I'm very happy with it. It's already running Android P DP3. I have considered a Huawei P20, but in the end went with the Pixel 2, mainly because of the fast updates and stock Android (I came from a Nexus 5X)
No regrets!
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me too, I bought my pixel 2 (128GB) using a 20% coupon, used to have a nexus 5x, huge improvement

Whats the main reason you bought Pixel 3?

So everybody has that one thing made them buy Pixel 3 over other phones.. for me that's camera and assume the same for many of the users... what's that one thing made you buy this phone?

ram4ufriends said:
So everybody has that one thing made them buy Pixel 3 over other phones.. for me that's camera and assume the same for many of the users... what's that one thing made you buy this phone?
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After years of being a loyal Samsung customer, I got tired of updates that often took 8+ months after release. Even when they came, my phone often slowed down to a crawl. I also got tired of the locked down bootloader in Samsung phones. This is my first Pixel phone and I couldn't be happier. Superior camera, monthly updates, butter-y smooth performance, unlocked bootloader with ability to root and do titanium backups without losing warranty. Too many reasons to mention. I will NEVER again buy a Samsung. I never understood how inferior specs could have better overall performance, but now that I actually own Pixel, I can.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

The main reason I went to the Pixel is the camera. After owning the Note 9 and getting mostly blurry action shots I went back to the Pixel and couldn't be more happy. I don't miss the curved Samsung displays at all either.

My initial purchase of the OG Pixel and Pixel XL was at least partially driven by price. My wife and I had S4s that I got before Samsung locked them down, so once I had them rooted they were going to get used until they died. Close to three years later the were on their last leg and the dePixel exploit went public. I grabbed the OGs at Verizon for essentially half off retail, ended up with a device that worked exactly like the Google model and even got trade-in money for the S4s. After 2+ years of the OGs (that were still behaving like champs and had moved a while back to T-Mobile), I got myself really tempted to pick up the OP6Ts with the T-Mobile trade-in program that included the Pixel and Pixel XL. The only way I could talk myself out of it was to pickup a Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL and trade in the OGs. Ultimately, it had a lot to do with me not wanting to learn another ecosystem (at 47 years old) or to compromise with anything less than an unlocked bootloader, an excellent dev scene and as close to pure android as is possible. I have no regrets or payments on the phones.

My reason might not be a 'great' one. I was (am) an original Pixel XL owner. I felt it was a very good phone but needed an upgrade. I'm much too invested in Google phones at this point to get anything else. So... I got the Pixel 3 XL. I guess I could have stayed with the original Pixel XL but where's the fun in that?
I'm just saying this to say it - 5 years ago when a new phone came out it was like, "WOAH! It can do THAT!?". These days the annual changes are not exactly exciting. And honestly, most people do the same basic things with their phones - take pictures, use social media, play games, browse the internet, message, etc. Most phones do all of those things pretty well with varying degrees of precision. Battery life seems to have always been and will probably always be something to complain about.

Pure Android, the latest builds, and the best camera.

For me, it was the ability to root and customize. I've been using phones from AT&T for years, mostly Samsungs, and I couldn't do anything with them, not at least while I owned them. Being able to root and mod isn't that big of deal any more, most of the phones work pretty damn well for the most part, and a lot of the features that I use to get by using a custom rom are pretty much standard now. But it's still fun to do.

I love that I always have the latest Android version and security patch. The smoothness is also important. And no bloat.
Always felt left behind with my Samsung and even OnePlus phones .

Needed an upgrade from Samsung S7 which was laggy, and updates were months delayed. Wanted Project Fi, which lowered my monthly bill and offered the best option for international travel. Really like the form factor and minimalist design of the Pixel 3, very snappy performance, unbloated Android and first in line for updates. Great camera and call screening are bonuses. Best phone I've had, by far.

I have to say Pure Android, Camera and a much needed upgrade from my Nexus 6P! Loving this phone so far..

spotmark said:
Pure Android, the latest builds, and the best camera.
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I'm Airmaxx23 and I approve this message.

The only stock Android phone prior to the pixel 2xl and 3xl I ever had was the nexus s from Samsung. It was fine, but, stock Android was really boring back then to me. But, a few phones later and when HTC decided they weren't going to update their phones anymore, even after a super buggy update, I dropped a stock Android ROM on it. I actually really liked it. And, it brought the phone back to life. Then I got a Samsung since the Nexus 6P didn't have financing that I could find, loved it, at least until the S8 was about to drop and Samsung updated it to run slower. Then slower, and so on. I decided screw Samsung and HTC, and tried the Pixel 2xl. LOVED it. Best camera, day one updates, super fast and no updates ever slowed it down. So, the 3 dropped and with wireless charging and a couple other things, I went for it. I don't think I'll ever own another phone, maybe outside of a new essential phone or a One Plus that actually meets my needs.

gettinwicked said:
The only stock Android phone prior to the pixel 2xl and 3xl I ever had was the nexus s from Samsung. It was fine, but, stock Android was really boring back then to me. But, a few phones later and when HTC decided they weren't going to update their phones anymore, even after a super buggy update, I dropped a stock Android ROM on it. I actually really liked it. And, it brought the phone back to life. Then I got a Samsung since the Nexus 6P didn't have financing that I could find, loved it, at least until the S8 was about to drop and Samsung updated it to run slower. Then slower, and so on. I decided screw Samsung and HTC, and tried the Pixel 2xl. LOVED it. Best camera, day one updates, super fast and no updates ever slowed it down. So, the 3 dropped and with wireless charging and a couple other things, I went for it. I don't think I'll ever own another phone, maybe outside of a new essential phone or a One Plus that actually meets my needs.
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I have the Essential phone, and it's the first phone I've kept instead of selling when I got a new phone. It is basically a Nexus/Pixel device. Pure Android, unlockable bootloader, and updates as soon as Google. If it wasn't for the sub-par camera, I'd still be using it. I wish they would stay in business and deliver the phone that was initially promised. The design of the Pixel doesn't hold a candle to the PH-1.

number one reason. Camera. free cloud storage. i take tons of pictures.
second. pure android.

Best phone you can root (at least without the sorts of serious skills / know-how you apparently need for Note 9 and Mate Pro 20, one of which I would have gone for otherwise)

I might be an odd one here, but for me the main reasons where size, no notch and stereo speakers. The cam, quick updates, clean android and haptic motor are nice bonuses.
After owning HTC phones for about 8 years, last 3,5 of those on the rubbish M9, I was looking for a m7 like phone, but with up to date hw. Sadly noone makes good metal unibody phones anymore so I'll just have to deal with the glass sandwich bull****, other than that the P3 is pretty close to perfect.

I assume the OP meant Pixel 3 XL since he's in the 3 XL subforum?
If that's the case, then I bought one because it's ugly as hell and doesn't look like any of my friend's phone. My 6P was also getting old and after bad experiences with anything but a phone directly from Google, I've sort of become a Google sheep and only buy their stuff now.

I was always jumping in between phones, mainly Samsung. Had pretty much every galaxy minus the one and two. HTC one was the best phone I even used, form factor, the OS it was fantastic. Nothing even really compared to it. I couldn't get the pixel at first because well I never had the cash so I was at the mercy of TMobile financing and what they offer wasn't always great. I went from a galaxy s8 to the iPhone x just to check it out since I haven't touched one since the 5. Man did I regret it. Missed my 14 day period and so I was stuck with it for a few months. Note 9 came out and I was really considering it, but well I held myself and then the OnePlus 6T came out. I had a old iPhone 6 laying around I got for $50 so I traded it in for the 6T and the $300 bonus. Good phone but no stereo speakers and notifications killed it for me. I was eyeing the pixel 3 since release day, got my cash ready and just as I was going to buy one, the Black Friday deals got announced, waited and now I have the XL. Supper happy with it. Even the "feel" of the phone is glorious. And the 6T is now on it's way to PA and it's new owner lol

It was the logical choice from my Nexus 6p, which I had since release. Also, Dirty Unicorns support. [emoji6]
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk

spotmark said:
I have the Essential phone, and it's the first phone I've kept instead of selling when I got a new phone. It is basically a Nexus/Pixel device. Pure Android, unlockable bootloader, and updates as soon as Google. If it wasn't for the sub-par camera, I'd still be using it. I wish they would stay in business and deliver the phone that was initially promised. The design of the Pixel doesn't hold a candle to the PH-1.
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I almost got the essential phone. I wanted to wait until the pixel 2's were announce first though. By the time they were, I had heard too many reports of the crappy camera. I was upset though when the essential phone 2 was cancelled. I'd really like to see another one, but bigger, great camera, OLED screen, etc. I would buy one if it came out and had those specs. I have been reading rumors of a new essential phone though. So, we'll see.

Galaxy or Pixel?

I am currently running a Pixel 3 XL. So far, I have been very underwhelmed by this phone. Even with the most recent updates, I still get the occasional lag. Several times, I would restart my phone only to have it get stuck on a black screen. Most importantly, my data connection is really bad. My 4g would occasionally turn off and on. Today, all of my data failed to work. I had to call ATT to see if there was anything wrong with their towers.
So are these software issues or hardware issues? Is Samsung Galaxy known to have better radios and internal hardware? I don't want to switch over to a different brand only to find out it was a problem with PIE, which Galaxy will soon have.

Honestly, that sounds like you have a bad phone and need a replacement.
I have a Pixel 3 XL, and although I am not as in love with it as I want to be, I do not have those problems.
To wrap my feelings up about the phone in general... if you want the best phone RIGHT NOW, then I would return and get a Galaxy Note 9 (or figure out a way to get Huawai's latest).
I came from the Note 9, and mostly regret that decision; Except for the camera - if camera is important to you then stay pixel. Unless you are a big camera nut then I am sure you can get just as good with a note 9 or Huawai - but if you want just to pull out the phone and take a nice shot without having to worry about anything, pixel is the way to go.
But I'm sure my excitement will return when android Q is coming around, and pixel is first to get. ..

garyHal said:
I am currently running a Pixel 3 XL. So far, I have been very underwhelmed by this phone. Even with the most recent updates, I still get the occasional lag. Several times, I would restart my phone only to have it get stuck on a black screen. Most importantly, my data connection is really bad. My 4g would occasionally turn off and on. Today, all of my data failed to work. I had to call ATT to see if there was anything wrong with their towers.
So are these software issues or hardware issues? Is Samsung Galaxy known to have better radios and internal hardware? I don't want to switch over to a different brand only to find out it was a problem with PIE, which Galaxy will soon have.
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I have been a samsung user forever - in fact I have the Galaxy note 9 which is an awesome phone. I also bought the pixle and I have to be honest, since getting the pixel xl 3, it has been my daily drive and i hardly even miss my Samsung Note 9. (hardly - sometimes I use it for the camera - and a few other things but overall - the Pixel has been a better, more reliable phone
I am using the BOOTLEGGER ROM which is awesome by the way - and the Proton Kernel - (V10 - waiting for V11 to be released) FOr what it's worth, Benchmark Scores are very strong - almost 299,000 on my last test (that was using Perfance settings in the Kernel Manager) but when I use the Proton Kernel normal settings - my scores run around 292,000 - very respectable.
No Lag at all - lightning fast - the Pixel 3 XL is in my opinion, amazing. Simply amazing.

Well, let's see. Android Pie was released back in August 6 of 2018. Almost 1/2 a year later, almost all Galaxy 9/9+ and Note 9 owners are still waiting to received it. They have only received Beta versions good for testing it out as part of Beta program. I think I read Germany started receiving a few days ago the actual update. If your don't care about receiving timely new features and updates and new yearly OS updates (which sometimes come a year plus later for older Samsung models), then go with the Samsung. They have great hardware but horrible record of updates. They also have a closed and locked bootloader (unless you get the international version which won't be 100% compatible with all features in your carrier). Don't expect root ever on a carrier version. It's very unlikely to happen. On the other hand, you could go for a Pixel 3XL phone. The amazing software will more than make up for the hardware shortcomings. You'll get monthly security updates directly from Google and be among the first to ever get the new OS upgrades. I had always been a Samsung Note and Galaxy user until last year's locked down of the Note 8 bootloader completely turned meet off. At over $1000 per phone, I expect to be updated quickly not a year later. I tried the Pixel 3Xl and will NEVER consider another Samsung phones regardless of hardware. I have come to learn that software can more than make up for it. I can freely unlock my bootloader as I see fit, root my phone at will and get customs ROMs from the XDA community. Rooting an international Samsung phone will void warrantee and also forever void Samsung pay. No need to worry about this on the Pixel 3Xl. I guess my point is, it all depends on your priorities XYZ wants and needs. The Pixel 3Xl in my experience is far superior to every other Samsung phone I have owned by farrrrrrrr.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
---------- Post added at 05:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:25 PM ----------
BTW in my opinion, Pixel phones also hold their value much better than Samsung phones. So, if resale value is important to you, go with the Pixel 3Xl. Just look at last year's models in Craigslist or any other page. You'll see what I'm talking about.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

garyHal said:
I am currently running a Pixel 3 XL. So far, I have been very underwhelmed by this phone. Even with the most recent updates, I still get the occasional lag. Several times, I would restart my phone only to have it get stuck on a black screen. Most importantly, my data connection is really bad. My 4g would occasionally turn off and on. Today, all of my data failed to work. I had to call ATT to see if there was anything wrong with their towers.
So are these software issues or hardware issues? Is Samsung Galaxy known to have better radios and internal hardware? I don't want to switch over to a different brand only to find out it was a problem with PIE, which Galaxy will soon have.
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Call and get a replacement. You clearly have a bad phone. I haven't heard of anyone else having these issues, and mine works perfectly. Never any lag at all. Also, the camera is amazing. Three tech sites I believe (think Gizmodo and such) plus dxomark rated it the best of 2018. Plus all of the new or pixel only features plus day one updates all make this phone even more awesome.
I had a Samsung S7 Edge, and, I loved it at first, but, never again will I own a Samsung phone. Right around the time the S8 was being release, I got an update and the phone was waaay slower. A couple more updates and the phone was nearly useless. Got a new replacement, same thing. They've been reported to do that. Soooo, unless you don't care about anything I mentioned above, and plan on getting a new Samsung every year, then get one. Otherwise, stick with a pixel.

I probably do have a bad phone since everyone else has a better experience.
I have been using Nexus / Pixel for the last 4 years and enjoyed it. This year's model was an exception.

Eudeferrer said:
Well, let's see. Android Pie was released back in August 6 of 2018. Almost 1/2 a year later, almost all Galaxy 9/9+ and Note 9 owners are still waiting to received it. They have only received Beta versions good for testing it out as part of Beta program. I think I read Germany started receiving a few days ago the actual update. If your don't care about receiving timely new features and updates and new yearly OS updates (which sometimes come a year plus later for older Samsung models), then go with the Samsung. They have great hardware but horrible record of updates. They also have a closed and locked bootloader (unless you get the international version which won't be 100% compatible with all features in your carrier). Don't expect root ever on a carrier version. It's very unlikely to happen. On the other hand, you could go for a Pixel 3XL phone. The amazing software will more than make up for the hardware shortcomings. You'll get monthly security updates directly from Google and be among the first to ever get the new OS upgrades. I had always been a Samsung Note and Galaxy user until last year's locked down of the Note 8 bootloader completely turned meet off. At over $1000 per phone, I expect to be updated quickly not a year later. I tried the Pixel 3Xl and will NEVER consider another Samsung phones regardless of hardware. I have come to learn that software can more than make up for it. I can freely unlock my bootloader as I see fit, root my phone at will and get customs ROMs from the XDA community. Rooting an international Samsung phone will void warrantee and also forever void Samsung pay. No need to worry about this on the Pixel 3Xl. I guess my point is, it all depends on your priorities XYZ wants and needs. The Pixel 3Xl in my experience is far superior to every other Samsung phone I have owned by farrrrrrrr.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
---------- Post added at 05:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:25 PM ----------
BTW in my opinion, Pixel phones also hold their value much better than Samsung phones. So, if resale value is important to you, go with the Pixel 3Xl. Just look at last year's models in Craigslist or any other page. You'll see what I'm talking about.
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I know it's all about preference and what you like but you're wrong on so many points and are trying really hard to justify your $900 purchase.
I'll start with the easiest one and that's resale value. No Google does not hold their value better nor will you find a buyer faster. Google phones are only popular on YouTube and xda. In the real world no one wants to buy a pixel and def not a used one anywhere near regular price. Even new on Verizon the pixels are constantly $200-$400 off.
As for the locked bootloader that's invalid again cause the same thing goes with the pixel. You have to buy the unlocked variant to do that otherwise their carries version can't be unlocked.
Also newest Android version doesn't always mean new features. Stock Android is just starting to implement features that Samsung has had for awhile. Unless seeing a 9.0 instead of a 8.1 on your "about phone" is that important there is nothing the pixel really offers you that Samsung a don't.
The monthly security patches are again useless considering Samsung's Knox system is arguably the most secure thing on Android regardless of your Android version.
Lastly the software on the pixel 3 is anything but amazing. Apps refreshing Everytime you have 4+ open. Constant hiccup here and there. The restrictions that Google have put on the phone in terms of only fast charging on their wireless charger and etc is against what Android is.
The pixel is a great camera and ok smartphone.
The note is an amazing phone in every other category.
I own both phones and Samsung being on a later software makes absolutely no difference whatsoever. I feel like I'm not missing out on anything .
On the pixel I'm missing out on my SD card. My headphones jack. My ability to wirelessly fast charge everywhere and the confidence that my battery will last the whole day.
I know this is a pixel forum but let's be real and take off our Google glasses. The note 9 is the best phone out right now period. The 3 xl is a great phone with many disapointments

flavioa said:
I know it's all about preference and what you like but you're wrong on so many points and are trying really hard to justify your $900 purchase.
I'll start with the easiest one and that's resale value. No Google does not hold their value better nor will you find a buyer faster. Google phones are only popular on YouTube and xda. In the real world no one wants to buy a pixel and def not a used one anywhere near regular price. Even new on Verizon the pixels are constantly $200-$400 off.
As for the locked bootloader that's invalid again cause the same thing goes with the pixel. You have to buy the unlocked variant to do that otherwise their carries version can't be unlocked.
Also newest Android version doesn't always mean new features. Stock Android is just starting to implement features that Samsung has had for awhile. Unless seeing a 9.0 instead of a 8.1 on your "about phone" is that important there is nothing the pixel really offers you that Samsung a don't.
The monthly security patches are again useless considering Samsung's Knox system is arguably the most secure thing on Android regardless of your Android version.
Lastly the software on the pixel 3 is anything but amazing. Apps refreshing Everytime you have 4+ open. Constant hiccup here and there. The restrictions that Google have put on the phone in terms of only fast charging on their wireless charger and etc is against what Android is.
The pixel is a great camera and ok smartphone.
The note is an amazing phone in every other category.
I own both phones and Samsung being on a later software makes absolutely no difference whatsoever. I feel like I'm not missing out on anything .
On the pixel I'm missing out on my SD card. My headphones jack. My ability to wirelessly fast charge everywhere and the confidence that my battery will last the whole day.
I know this is a pixel forum but let's be real and take off our Google glasses. The note 9 is the best phone out right now period. The 3 xl is a great phone with many disapointments
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps it is you that it is trying to justify the sad $1300+ price after taxes of the Note 9. While I do not argue that Note phones are generally great phones for some people, You are wrong on many levels and clearly do not have a clue about Andorid systems. While it's true that Verizon phones go on sale all the time at a discounted price, the reason for this is because they lock you in on 2 year contracts. At the end of the day you are paying more for your phone. While Amazon shows today the price of the brand new unlocked Note 9 at $725 you would be hard pressed to find the unlocked version of the 128 GB Pixel for less than its original price anywhere. While it's true that the Pixel may be $200-$400 off, If you look at the Note 9 carrier versions, they have even had BOGO offers on multiple occasions. Last year's Note 8 is on sale on Craigslist for roughly $400+ in my area. Simply because nobody wants it. At the same time, the Pixel 2 XL is usually no less than $500 used (even considering the price was originally less than the Note 8).
On another note, about new OS updates not having new features, you are wrong on multiple levels. Here is a brief list of new features introduced under Android Pie which are still NOT available to 99 % of Samsung users: Adaptive settings for battery life, screen brightness, app suggestions, etc..., Cut-out support, HEIC support which has better image compression support, New gesture navigations, New Google material Theme, An official dark theme, 157 new emojis, Night site (for Pixel phones), and so many more! To suggest that there are no new features in a new OS release shows your well-rounded ignorance about the topic. You may feel like you are not missing out on anything, but I think a great majority of smart phone owners would appreciate having the latest OS and security upgrades.
As far as headphone jacks, yes, I agree they are useful, but in my case, I had already upgraded to wireless anyways and so has most of the world from I-phones, to countless other Android phone manufacturers. It's just a matter of time before Samsung jumps on the bandwagon as well. And as far as wireless charging, if it's true what you claim that you have a Pixel 3 then you would know that it DOES come with fast wireless charging as well. So, they are even on that front. As far as battery lasting all day, my Pixel 3XL still has about 20% battery at the end of the day under heavy use, so not an issue for me, either.
I don't take away from the Samsung Note 9's appeal when it comes to screen quality, battery life and overall look and design. Remember I have a Note 8 and have used Samsung for years. But to claim that the features of the Pixel 3 OS are useless or not important shows your bitterness towards not having access to Pie yet. Good luck with your non-rootable, overpriced and over 6-month-outdated OS Note 9. MY prediction is that in the next few months you will see the price tumble to half it's value as Samsung struggles to sell its backed up inventory that nobody wants. By the time Android Pie reaches most Samsung phones, we will be a couple of months away from Android Q which will be out with a new set of features and according to you, useless and unimportant upgrades.

My Galaxy S8 blows this phone away, battery life, screen size, sound. I haven't noticed anything new with Pie. I'm no camera buff my S8 took great pictures. I'm trying to like this phone but it is hard to do.

13druber said:
My Galaxy S8 blows this phone away, battery life, screen size, sound. I haven't noticed anything new with Pie. I'm no camera buff my S8 took great pictures. I'm trying to like this phone but it is hard to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From my personal experience, my Galaxy S8 constantly freezes and has worse battery life than my Pixel 3Xl. I understand user results and experiences are different for everyone. While some people claim to have had issues with apps closing on the background on Pixel 3 Xl, I never had this issue. Read up on Android Pie features. There are plenty of new worthwhile feature upgrades. Probably the most important one is adaptive battery. I think it makes a huge difference in the battery life of any phone. My Pixel 3Xl battery lasts all day. On my Galaxy 8 phone, midday I was more than halfway through the battery, same apps, and same time used. I used to constantly have to plug in my phone for juice. I rarely have to plug it in now except at night or extreme heavy use. As far as the screen size/quality, IMO, they are very similar but the sound on my stereo front speakers on the Pixel 3Xl is far superior to my S8's.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Eudeferrer said:
From my personal experience, my Galaxy S8 constantly freezes and has worse battery life than my Pixel 3Xl. I understand user results and experiences are different for everyone. While some people claim to have had issues with apps closing on the background on Pixel 3 Xl, I never had this issue. Read up on Android Pie features. There are plenty of new worthwhile feature upgrades. Probably the most important one is adaptive battery. I think it makes a huge difference in the battery life of any phone. My Pixel 3Xl battery lasts all day. On my Galaxy 8 phone, midday I was more than halfway through the battery, same apps, and same time used. I used to constantly have to plug in my phone for juice. I rarely have to plug it in now except at night or extreme heavy use. As far as the screen size/quality, IMO, they are very similar but the sound on my stereo front speakers on the Pixel 3Xl is far superior to my S8's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm talking audio thru BT. Headphones and my BT speaker. It is all treble. My battery life is horrible on this and no expanded memory. I'm just trying to get used to this phone, I had a Nexus 5 I loved it. I just need time to adjust. I don't have any performance issues, seems pretty fast. I'll check out the Pie features, thanks.

I own both, honestly find the note to be the better all round phone and always feel limited by the max128gb storage, yes it is enough but does not leave much wiggle room. Older OS or not the Note feels more polished.
The software experience is better on the 3xl but there are bugs still (gboard 1 handed mode [emoji2357]) and some missing features (ability to schedule AOD) The camera though is just better especially in low light.
If the pixel had a 256gb option I'd probably not have the note though. Having said that if the OP6t or mate 20 had a (proper) always on display I'd likely have one of them instead!
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

13druber said:
I'm talking audio thru BT. Headphones and my BT speaker. It is all treble. My battery life is horrible on this and no expanded memory. I'm just trying to get used to this phone, I had a Nexus 5 I loved it. I just need time to adjust. I don't have any performance issues, seems pretty fast. I'll check out the Pie features, thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps you should install Viper if you are rooted in your Pixel. It's very easy to use and easily corrects any issues with sounds quality you may have. You can truly customize the sound to your personal preference. You could also have a defective phone because my $25 Bluetooth wireless headphones from Amazon sound amazing on my Pixel. As far as expanded memory, I bought a 256 gb USB-c type drive from Amazon for $52 that I connect directly to my Pixel and I save all my backups and important files there. It's as easy as connecting it to your phone on the USB port and it will show up internally as a drive. I save Twrp backups, Titanium backups, pics, downloaded files and a ton of things. No need to miss your expanded memory card slot.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Not sure how your getting bad battery life. I'm getting over 8 hours of screen on time with about 2 days worth of life. As far as being bogged down, again, no issues here. Pixel doesn't need 8gb of ram because it doesn't have 2 app stores, 2 text apps, 2 note apps, 2 browsers, 2 file manegers......see where I'm going?
Samsung has MASSIVE amounts of bloat. Root? Maybe, but with knox, Samsung's are for people who don't know how to take advantage of the unlocked bootloader. The UI is atrocious as well. I kind of like how you can download mods and filters for the camera, but The pixel is still better.
As great as expandable memory is, the read write speed are dirt slow compared to writing to the system. The Pixel having super speed USB type c, makes otg a great option for extra storage.
Me personally, being a Verizon chump, the Nexus 6p was my first Google phone. Which made my S4 the VERY LAST non Google phone with the exception of maybe a One+ device.
Fire Hound 8.1

Eudeferrer said:
Perhaps you should install Viper if you are rooted in your Pixel. It's very easy to use and easily corrects any issues with sounds quality you may have. You can truly customize the sound to your personal preference. You could also have a defective phone because my $25 Bluetooth wireless headphones from Amazon sound amazing on my Pixel. As far as expanded memory, I bought a 256 gb USB-c type drive from Amazon for $52 that I connect directly to my Pixel and I save all my backups and important files there. It's as easy as connecting it to your phone on the USB port and it will show up internally as a drive. I save Twrp backups, Titanium backups, pics, downloaded files and a ton of things. No need to miss your expanded memory card slot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My bootloader is locked. I have always used viper, too bad it doesn't come on this phone

13druber said:
My bootloader is locked. I have always used viper, too bad it doesn't come on this phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm assuming then, you are on the Verizon version because that's the only one you can't unlock bootloader. If you are not on Verizon version, it's easy to unlock. There are many tutorials on how to do it and It takes only a few minutes. I was tempted to get the Verizon version because they had great deals on it but I moved away from Samsung because of that same reason. I wanted to root my phone . A locked bootloader on this phone means I might ss well have bought a Samsung phone again. I did not want to be in the same boat with this phone. Hey, at least you can still get timely updates and support for 3 years, something Samsung will never do.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Shaftamle said:
Not sure how your getting bad battery life. I'm getting over 8 hours of screen on time with about 2 days worth of life. As far as being bogged down, again, no issues here. Pixel doesn't need 8gb of ram because it doesn't have 2 app stores, 2 text apps, 2 note apps, 2 browsers, 2 file manegers......see where I'm going?
Samsung has MASSIVE amounts of bloat. Root? Maybe, but with knox, Samsung's are for people who don't know how to take advantage of the unlocked bootloader. The UI is atrocious as well. I kind of like how you can download mods and filters for the camera, but The pixel is still better.
As great as expandable memory is, the read write speed are dirt slow compared to writing to the system. The Pixel having super speed USB type c, makes otg a great option for extra storage.
Me personally, being a Verizon chump, the Nexus 6p was my first Google phone. Which made my S4 the VERY LAST non Google phone with the exception of maybe a One+ device.
Fire Hound 8.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a big thread in the s9 forum about "debloating" the phone. It requires you to manually disable the unwanted apps though.

Eudeferrer said:
I'm assuming then, you are on the Verizon version because that's the only one you can't unlock bootloader. If you are not on Verizon version, it's easy to unlock. There are many tutorials on how to do it and It takes only a few minutes. I was tempted to get the Verizon version because they had great deals on it but I moved away from Samsung because of that same reason. I wanted to root my phone . A locked bootloader on this phone means I might ss well have bought a Samsung phone again. I did not want to be in the same boat with this phone. Hey, at least you can still get timely updates and support for 3 years, something Samsung will never do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, Verizon ?

Shaftamle said:
Not sure how your getting bad battery life. I'm getting over 8 hours of screen on time with about 2 days worth of life. As far as being bogged down, again, no issues here. Pixel doesn't need 8gb of ram because it doesn't have 2 app stores, 2 text apps, 2 note apps, 2 browsers, 2 file manegers......see where I'm going?
Samsung has MASSIVE amounts of bloat. Root? Maybe, but with knox, Samsung's are for people who don't know how to take advantage of the unlocked bootloader. The UI is atrocious as well. I kind of like how you can download mods and filters for the camera, but The pixel is still better.
As great as expandable memory is, the read write speed are dirt slow compared to writing to the system. The Pixel having super speed USB type c, makes otg a great option for extra storage.
Me personally, being a Verizon chump, the Nexus 6p was my first Google phone. Which made my S4 the VERY LAST non Google phone with the exception of maybe a One+ device.
Fire Hound 8.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When u said the s4 was your last Samsung phone I knew why everything you were saying about Samsung is so outdated. They are not what they used to be. Since the s8 their ui and bloat has been a lot better and they let you disable almost everything now.
Like mentioned in my previous post it's all about preference and what's more important to you when it comes to which phone the individual prefers but looking at it spec for spec, performance for performance, value for money and etc the note is the best phone on the market.
To people like me and you who love stock Android most other things dont matter and we would still buy a pixel 10 out of 10 times . I'm just talking about overall
Also IDK how you're getting sot of 8 hours. I get 5 at best and there are numerous amounts of battery drain threads on this forum so it's not just me dealing with bad battery life. And almost every YouTube battery test have the pixels near the bottom

flavioa said:
When u said the s4 was your last Samsung phone I knew why everything you were saying about Samsung is so outdated. They are not what they used to be. Since the s8 their ui and bloat has been a lot better and they let you disable almost everything now.
Like mentioned in my previous post it's all about preference and what's more important to you when it comes to which phone the individual prefers but looking at it spec for spec, performance for performance, value for money and etc the note is the best phone on the market.
To people like me and you who love stock Android most other things dont matter and we would still buy a pixel 10 out of 10 times . I'm just talking about overall
Also IDK how you're getting sot of 8 hours. I get 5 at best and there are numerous amounts of battery drain threads on this forum so it's not just me dealing with bad battery life. And almost every YouTube battery test have the pixels near the bottom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I definitely know things have been cleaned up a little I have an s8 for work. Like you said it's definitely personal preference. But the reason my last Samsung was the S4 is because that was the last one without Knox. I'm not a fan of locked bootloaders. Hardware and performance the note may have a slight edge.the dollar for dollar I'd still go with the pixel. It's a $200 price difference if you bought the pixel at release. If you waited a month it was 600. In my opinion there's no way the note is $400 better. But that's my opinion.
I guess I'm just stuck back in the day when Android was actually a phone that you could make your own. I just don't like how Samsung tries to push their garbage on you with every handset that you buy. But hey to each is own.
As far as battery goes, 8 hours with my tops but I'm definitely getting 7 plus since I got the phone.
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Anyone getting the S10 or S10+?

Anyone considering the S10 or S10+? Why or why not? They're offering a $550 trade in with Pixel 3 XL, so just more curious what people are doing and why.
I'm considering it. Not sure if I can actually pull the trigger on a Samsung device.

Try it out in the store first, I had the s4 after my Galaxy Nexus, that was unlocked and had stock Android flashed, then the s5 which was rooted, but only years after I got rid of it, they got the bootloader unlocked.
The s5 was fast, but it doesn't hold a candle to stock Android.
If you won't miss the stock sounds, UI, apps, root, etc. Then go for it, I consider most of that stuff bloat and a lot of the exclusive features would go unused by me.
My own opinion, but everyone has their own taste.

dchurch85 said:
Anyone considering the S10 or S10+? Why or why not? They're offering a $550 trade in with Pixel 3 XL, so just more curious what people are doing and why.
I'm considering it. Not sure if I can actually pull the trigger on a Samsung device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After the S9+, I'm done with Samsung. I always end up going back to Google devices. I had an S8+, Pixel 2 XL, S9+, and now Pixel 3 XL. Samsung just keeps making it harder and harder to modify MY PHONE, and I think that I should have the right to root, etc., when I pay for the phone outright. I enjoyed my Exynos S9+, dont get me wrong, but the Pixel is so much easier. Here in the US, you need to buy an international Samsung if you want to do anything with as far as Roms go, but then you loose functionality because the phone is not built for use in USA. There are ways to make things work, but it is tedious, and time consuming, then Samsung changes crap each time they update. Also, its to the point now that the Snapdragon processors are out performing the Exynos processors.

Phone looks pretty sick but still not enough to convince me to switch to sammy phone. Its a sammy........

lucky_strike33 said:
Phone looks pretty sick but still not enough to convince me to switch to sammy phone. Its a sammy........
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Been with Sammy for so many year. Please no more. Happy with them, even happier with Google.
I still look forward every time to pick up my phone, turn it on and use it,. Loving it. I dont even have a need for Pix 4. I can easily go stay with it for another year. Knowing me id get P4 tho.
But yeah no more Samsung for me. My brother is getting one tho

--

do i like locked bootloaders? lmao

I have been very disappointed with my xl 3. I am getting either the s10 or LG v8

What is an S10? Until Google locks the bootloader, I wouldn't be able to tell you what other phones are out there.

I am on Pixel 3 and its been only like 2weeks now. Before this was using a S9+. Best in Pixel 3- rooting and using custom roms with hell lot of features and the bestest camera in the smartphone market now. Cons speaker and display.
Pros of S9+, the best display on a smartphone and speakers tuned by Harmon. Speakers are like the best I have heard ln a smartphone. But worst ever front camera for a flagship, it literally paints everybody in the scene.?

I'm not into locked bootloaders and phones that take 6+ months to update software. My TMo Note 8 is still waiting for official Pie o arrive. I don't care how amazing the hardware is if the software is 1/2 a year or more behind all the time.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL

It’s very tempting but the updates are really slow with samsung even if it’s the international version.

I am proud of Pixel 3 getting updates first and all. Unfortunately Pie has been buggy since release and I feel like I have been beta testing the phone for them. I see Samsung's slower release as a more mature release after what Google has fixed.

garyHal said:
I am proud of Pixel 3 getting updates first and all. Unfortunately Pie has been buggy since release and I feel like I have been beta testing the phone for them. I see Samsung's slower release as a more mature release after what Google has fixed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure which bugs you refer to, but my phone has run in top notch condition since day one. Good luck with your Samsung. All you have to do is look at the Note 9 forums to find million of complaints about the software. The only mature thing about their software is the release date because as per the many forums on XDA there is a ton of stuff wrong with it.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL

Eudeferrer said:
Not sure which bugs you refer to, but my phone has run in top notch condition since day one. Good luck with your Samsung. All you have to do is look at the Note 9 forums to find million of complaints about the software. The only mature thing about their software is the release date because as per the many forums on XDA there is a ton of stuff wrong with it.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have posted my issues on this forum before. Such problems include:
1) lag even after the most recent update
2) I restart my phone daily and on several occasions, the phone restarts to a dead black screen instead of Android
3) the clock on the status bar is stuck, restarting the phone fixes this
4) "always on display" gets stuck
5) LTE connection is bad. Instead of dropping down to 3g, it stays on "No Data" state.

I've got both the pixel and note 9, I've also had the s8 and s9+ wasn't impressed with them but I am with the note. The screen is amazing, no notch and the pen is a huge plus. I'm leaning on keeping my note for now and getting rid of the pixel. I've got the international one so bootloader is unlocked barely any bloat. Then maybe getting the S10+

garyHal said:
I have posted my issues on this forum before. Such problems include:
1) lag even after the most recent update
2) I restart my phone daily and on several occasions, the phone restarts to a dead black screen instead of Android
3) the clock on the status bar is stuck, restarting the phone fixes this
4) "always on display" gets stuck
5) LTE connection is bad. Instead of dropping down to 3g, it stays on "No Data" state.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Other than a rare lag when first opening the camera, I can honestly say I haven't had any of these issues on my phone. I guess which apps you use has a lot to do with it also, but it sounds to me like you got a bad Apple. Maybe the Note 9 is better for your use, but my Note 8 experience is crap (slow and painfully laggy). Good luck.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL

I sold my P2XL & bought an S9+. They are good phones but I couldn't wait for the P3XL to come out. I'm happy with my Pixel. Everything I did with the S9+ was tweaking it to be more like a Pixel, both with looks and adding Google apps to use instead of the Samsung apps. I had duplicates of a bunch of apps. I tried to like Bixby but that was hopeless. I use the camera quite a bit, nothing like the Pixel's that I've ever used.

dmb219 said:
I sold my P2XL & bought an S9+. They are good phones but I couldn't wait for the P3XL to come out. I'm happy with my Pixel. Everything I did with the S9+ was tweaking it to be more like a Pixel, both with looks and adding Google apps to use instead of the Samsung apps. I had duplicates of a bunch of apps. I tried to like Bixby but that was hopeless. I use the camera quite a bit, nothing like the Pixel's that I've ever used.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am confused. You sold your Pixel 2 and now you couldn't wait for the Pixel 3? What phone are you using now?

garyHal said:
I am confused. You sold your Pixel 2 and now you couldn't wait for the Pixel 3? What phone are you using now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That wasn't very clear. I had a P2XL, sold it and bought an S9+. I used that until the P3XL came out. I sold the Samsung and bought the new Pixel. I take good care of my phone, keep the packaging & accessories in the box. I got a pretty good price for the last few phones I sold on Swappa. It makes it easier than paying big money for a phone every year. I probably got 70% of the cost after 9 or 10 months of use.

Pixel 3/3XL Owners: Overall thoughts? What will be your next phone and why?

Hey all Pixel 3/3XL owners (and even those who don't own these devices but have kept up with the Pixel lineup of devices),
I'm just looking to gather some thoughts on what you guys thought about the Pixel 3/3XL phones overall and how they stacked up against your previous phones. I'm also looking to see what you guys think of the seemingly controversial Pixel 4 lineup of devices and lastly, what you now think of the Pixel phone brand in general.
Also, what do you think will be your next phone?
And just for clarification, I'm looking for opinions because I'll soon be in the market for a new phone, and to be honest, I've been a little disappointed with the Pixel lineup as of late because I feel that they've been taking the classic "Apple" approach. Of course, this is just my opinion, but I just feel like there have been fewer meaningful (to me) improvements with each recent Pixel iteration.
With that said, I'm currently thinking about moving to the Note 20 when it releases but usually have a very hard time making up my mind, lol. Hence this post!
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

5a. Battery and camera I'm not a power user so... I'll have to sell my pixel stand I guess.

Pixel 3 XL was my last Google phone. Started with the Galaxy Nexus and have had every one up to the 3 XL.
Moved to the Note 10+ back in October which I hate. Just went to the OnePlus 8 Pro two weeks ago and I love it. In my opinion (which doesn't mean much) OnePlus phones are the spiritual successor to the Nexus line.
Sent from my IN2025 using Tapatalk

I'm thinking OnePlus as well, but the prices in Canada are insane. Thinking I might look for a used one since they sell pretty low.

rmiles7721 said:
Pixel 3 XL was my last Google phone. Started with the Galaxy Nexus and have had every one up to the 3 XL.
Moved to the Note 10+ back in October which I hate. Just went to the OnePlus 8 Pro two weeks ago and I love it. In my opinion (which doesn't mean much) OnePlus phones are the spiritual successor to the Nexus line.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root? I'm addicted to Viper4Android so it's a must for me.
Sent from my crosshatch using XDA Labs

ffchampmt said:
Root? I'm addicted to Viper4Android so it's a must for me.
Sent from my crosshatch using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. This is the first phone I've rooted since the Nexus 6.
Sent from my IN2025 using Tapatalk

I need dual speakers. That's my must have....and root obviously. I know there are some gaming phones on the market with stereo speakers, but not on Verizon. Also some other phones are starting to use the earpiece and bottom speaker for stereo but the Pixel 2xl and 3xl and the Moto X Pure I had prior, all had front facing speakers. I briefly had the s8+, and although I could root it and it was a beautiful phone the speaker drove me nuts. Anyway, I'm gonna wait for what the 5 has to offer and decide where to go from there. I'll pull the trigger on something new at that time though, or shortly after.

rmiles7721 said:
Moved to the Note 10+ back in October which I hate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why'd you hate it (if you don't mind me asking) ?
My one annoyance with the Note lineup is that I'd have to get the unlocked, Exynos version for root...and I feel that the Exynos chips are a large value hit considering their generally crummy performance relative to their Qualcomm counterparts. Now I'm no mobile gamer, and so that doesn't bother me too much. But the previous Samsung phones have had poorer battery life with the Exynos chips, which is the biggest caveat for me.

NippleSauce said:
Why'd you hate it (if you don't mind me asking) ?
My one annoyance with the Note lineup is that I'd have to get the unlocked, Exynos version for root...and I feel that the Exynos chips are a large value hit considering their generally crummy performance relative to their Qualcomm counterparts. Now I'm no mobile gamer, and so that doesn't bother me too much. But the previous Samsung phones have had poorer battery life with the Exynos chips, which is the biggest caveat for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bloat (fixable using adb and/or PDP.) I'm used to mostly stock Google apps. Hiding them rather than freezing doesn't make sense to me since they are still taking up resources.
When using Google Pay on any other phone I've had I can unlock it with the pin or fingerprint and then just tap and pay. With the Note 10 I had to unlock, tap, unlock again. Faster to just use my card, which is what I ended up doing.
I prefer a mostly stock Android version. Also prefer fast updates.
No root (unlocked US version) so the minor annoyances were unfixable.
Overall the Note 10+ is a fantastic phone. Nice and fast. Just for me the small things add up. I also briefly used the Note 3 and didn't really like it that much either.
Sent from my IN2025 using Tapatalk

i sold my pixel 3xl months ago. got myself oneplus 8 pro and s20+. at the end i put my oneplus 8 pro at the side. i enjoy s20+ more. its not bloated like what most people claim.

I have the 3XL and this will be my last Google device. Since they went to bed with Big Red everything has changed. Bugs, poor battery life, and just poor quality of late has turned me off. Tie that to less than even lack luster support and I'm done.
Pixel 3 XL, Yep, Crashed It.....
..... Again.

Probably the Pixel 3 XL will be my last Google Phone. I use Nexus/Pixel since the Nexus 4, but Pixel 4 is a total disgrace. An ugly, old fashioned and expensive phone. The camera did not fascinate me like in Pixel 3 XL. Average/poor battery life. Now to complete the mess, the master mind behind the pixel's cameras, Marc Levoy quits from Google before the Pixel 4a launch. The media said that Pixel 5 will not going to be a flagship, a huge step back. I like the Google phones because it shows how the Android supposed to be, but i can't accept use a mid range phone in 2020/2021. Maybe I will change to Oneplus, but, I hate that stupid curved display. Probably will buy the Iphone 12 Pro. Iphone 11 é very nice deal. Huge battery life, awesome specs, a very nice camera AND CHEAPER then pixel 4 at their launch. It's still a very good deal until today. It's time to give Apple a chance since my last Iphone 4. For me to stay in Google Phones, Pixel 5 must be a thing that I never seen before in a smartphone.
I wish luck to all who will stay with the Pixel line. Google did a pretty big mess with it.

Because of the safetynet issue with root & xposed + the crappy wearos watches I'll probably switch to iPhone, the dark side with jailbreak it's the best imho

I'm most likely going to get a red magic 5g gaming phone, I like my pixel 3 xl but it's time for a change because of the lack of rom support and the a/b ****

My next phone will have an unlockable bootloader and will have Open Network function on Verizon. I will not use android without adblocking, or with gapps.
(I completed 7 recaptchas in 38 clicks to submit this response. FUn)

nay_ said:
My next phone will have an unlockable bootloader and will have Open Network function on Verizon. I will not use android without adblocking, or with gapps.
(I completed 7 recaptchas in 38 clicks to submit this response. FUn)
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I wanted the pixel 4, but the lack of fingerprint sensor was a little bummer for me, plus google photos "Limited" quality... the Pixel 5 might be for me but seems there will be only pixel 4a which sucks, has a "middle range" snapdragon, not sure how it's comparable with pixel 3xl tho. I really like stock Android but let's see...

Never buying a Google phone again, camera is the best no doubt but battery and gaming performance sucks, heating issues and visible throttling due to heating. Probably gonna buy OnePlus 8

The Pixel 3XL will, more than likely, be my last Google phone. I finally pulled my wife away from Apple's ecosystem and convinced her to give Android a try. So, we both got Pixel 3XLs when it came out nearly two years ago. Since then, I have been less than impressed with this phone. Personally, I've been with the Nexus/Pixel line since the Nexus 4. The 3XL has been a big disappointment to me, and my wife ,who reluctantly gave Android a shot.
Here has been our mutual experience.
Terrible battery life.
Roll-of-the-dice security patches. (Will my battery life get better or worse with this one?)
Terrible RAM management. (News and music playing in the background? "Pick one or the other", says the Pixel.
Great Camera, no doubt.
Google: "You like that app? Well, we're shutting it down"
This truly felt like a beta phone for a flagship price. I wish I would have put my money elsewhere, because as a stock Android lover, this was disappointing.
My wife will more than likely want to jump over to iPhone again, and you know what, I don't blame her. For me at least, it seemed like Google just rushed a phone out for the sake of being competitive.
Yeah, I've had some positive experiences to say about it. The camera was and is absolutely fantastic. The fingerprint sensor is fast and accurate 99% of the time, and the speakers are loud enough for me. As for a daily driver? I would have looked elsewhere If I had known.

I have been a hardcore Google phone user since the Galaxy Nexus, but after the 3 XL I think I am going to jump ship. Google phones have awesome software, but the hardware is years behind the competition. I plan to keep using my 3 XL until the OnePlus 9T Pro is released next fall, then it's sayonara Google devices! OnePlus phones catch my eye because they have excellent hardware and are easily hackable, exactly what I'm looking for in a phone.

I will probably get the 5 XL. It follows my new phone every 2 years pattern.