[Q] TMO Galaxy S II vs Note II? - T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S II SGH-T989

I have an S2, and considering moving to the Note 2 for the larger screen, quad-core, accepots 64gb SD, & other features etc. ... anybody have a reason why the note 2 would be an unwise move? I haven't checked what kind of custom ROMs are available for the Note 2 yet, but I've been a flash-a-holic on the S2 (now running "The Sith 2" ROM). The only downside I would imagine others saying, is that the larger screen is more of a pocket-full, maybe more clunky to use as phone, but that's not an issue for me.
ALSO, TMO only carries the 16gb version of the Note 2, but there are other models available, but i don't know if their interfaces with the tmo network will work as well as a tmo version.

I'd say it depends on how bad you want it. If you just want it to upgrade, I'd hold out. I went through the same dilemma and decided I'd wait. Mainly because of the strides kernel/ROM development have taken with our phone. Also, the GS4 is supposed to be released in March, which is rumored to have a 5" display.
Obviously the hardware speaks for itself, but from what I understand, especially with the TMO version, the software is clunky and just crappy I'm general on the note. No one seems to want to come out and say it, but the S-pen is a gimmick. Plain and simple. Obviously that can be changed with different ROMs and etc, but I'm curious how much dev attention the note is going to get. Especially with the nexus right around the corner, and as I said, the GS4 only 4-5 months away.

Our phone happens to support 64gb sd cards. I guess the major difference here would be if you want a phone or a phablet. I'm sure each are great/bad in their own ways, I guess you'll just have to read up on a few reviews

I want one, just too damn big for my pockets. Not to mention the sgs2 is way too big already for strapping on your arm and going for a jog. I can't imagine the note 2 on my arm.

Unless you are in a rush I would wait just because of the amount of rumored new phones that are coming out. Although if you are just looking for screen size I don't think any of the rumored phones will be as big as the Note II. One of the reasons I didn't like the Note II at least spec wise was because with a screen that big I would want it to be 1080p. Just my thoughts!

Thank you everybody for your replies. About two weeks ago I pulled the trigger on the TMO Note II and very happy with it.
I'm running this rom, the dev, ptmr3, has given great support and quick personal responses. I use the multi Window way more than I imagined. I'm a writer & the S-pen, gimmick or not, has been very handy at 3am when I need to jot a note in the dark.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1987634

sirdowski said:
I'd say it depends on how bad you want it. If you just want it to upgrade, I'd hold out. I went through the same dilemma and decided I'd wait. Mainly because of the strides kernel/ROM development have taken with our phone. Also, the GS4 is supposed to be released in March, which is rumored to have a 5" display.
Obviously the hardware speaks for itself, but from what I understand, especially with the TMO version, the software is clunky and just crappy I'm general on the note. No one seems to want to come out and say it, but the S-pen is a gimmick. Plain and simple. Obviously that can be changed with different ROMs and etc, but I'm curious how much dev attention the note is going to get. Especially with the nexus right around the corner, and as I said, the GS4 only 4-5 months away.
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If the gs4 has a 5inch display, I will not buy it.
The size of the gs2 is perfect. I can deal with the size of the gs3. Any bigger and I wont buy it. Phones are getting 2 big right now.

Well if they removed the T-mobile and Samsung branding they could probably fit a 5 inch screen within the the SGS2 form factor. Be more of an edge to edge display. Personally I like the look and feel of the S2 and Note vs the "natural" look the S3 and Note 2 are going for.
I would wait like others have stated. Just use your S2 until it disintegrates and see what the next round of devices is about and how the well developers are supporting it. The S2 specs will do you well for awhile unless your a serious mobile gamer. Then if the next round of devices aren't anything to write home about you can go and pick up yourself a Note 2 for a whole lot cheaper this spring/summer than it is now

Related

T889 vs Nexus 4?

I've been debating with myself which phone to get - I'm pretty sure I'm not the only person in this boat so I made this thread.
My situation:
Nexus IV: $360 here in Canada
Note II: $400 here in Canada, although with a 3 year commitment ($40 a month for unlimited nationwide calling, unlimited data, although they throttle after 5gb, and unlimited nationwide text).
I'd use the same data plan if I got the Nexus, although on the plus side, I have no contract. Not too sure how big of a plus that is, as I don't want to swap from Wind Mobile.
Strongly leaning in favor of the Note II right now.
Nexus IV Advantages: Overall this phone is very similar to the Optimus G; not unlike the Nexus S and the i9000s.
- The SOC appears to be faster
- No Touchwiz (IMO Stock > anything the manufacturers come up with)
I personally do not care about the Wireless "charging orb" and think it's a gimmick; of limited use in the real world where one can simply connect a micro-USB.
Perhaps the biggest advantage the Nexus IV has is well ... a Nexus phone. That means that the development community around it will be much bigger, faster updates, and a 100% chance of Cyanogenmod. I'm not sure what's the Cyanogenmod prospects on the T889, but there is a beta one working for the N7100 and considering how similar this phone is to the international version. I don't know how big the development community for the T889 is going to be.
Note II Advantages: More or less a blown up Galaxy S3.
- Audio quality appears superior (Wolfson DAC); important to me; I keep a rooted voodoo Galaxy S variant just for the audio as a PMP; I am unsure at this time of what DAC the Nexus IV comes with, but having listened to the Galaxy S3 and the Optimus G
- Speaker appears to be superior (not a big deal IMO)
- Bigger screen (good for browsing and movies)
- S Pen (and everything that comes with it; probably the only custom thing that any manufacturer has done that has added value; well maybe Sense before Froyo added value to Android)
- Expandable storage (Nexus IV probably not enough to import a serious FLAC collection)
- Battery life (based on reviews, it looks like the Note II has a better battery life)
I would discourage people from using a "points" system to evaluate the 2 phones.
Areas for debate:
- Size .... I personally prefer a larger phone, up to debate though
- Screen; well it comes down to IPS vs Amoled. Both have outstanding viewing angles, and the Amoled isn't pentile (although not the traditional RGB either it seems). Amoled has deeper blacks, but the white reproduction isn't the greatest. IPS has better brightness and is better out in sunlight.
- Neither the Nexus IV nor the Note II can claim to have a better camera for taking images
- I'm not sure how well these phones will last over time - the glass back on the Nexus might be an area for concern; the Note II seems to do well in the drop tests though
- Pentaband phone (the T889 is pentaband as is the Nexus); not planning on making any international trips, but this would come in handy if it did
LG also seems to have a bad reputation; not too sure as I personally have never owned LG phones for an extended period, but my Samsung experiences have been positive.
Your thoughts?
How much faster is the processor known to be on the Nexus 4?
I considered both, but definitely do not regret having gotten the Note II because I really care about the larger screen (the main reason I upgraded from a GS3, though I really wanted the quad-core exynos)
Also, there's a big difference in retail price, which is going to be a major factor in the comparison.
Nexus 4 is crap! Don't buy it or u will regret it!!!!!!
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
jkxklutz said:
How much faster is the processor known to be on the Nexus 4?
I considered both, but definitely do not regret having gotten the Note II because I really care about the larger screen (the main reason I upgraded from a GS3, though I really wanted the quad-core exynos)
Also, there's a big difference in retail price, which is going to be a major factor in the comparison.
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In my case, price is very close, but yeah the screen is a big attractor.
honestly i don't think you can compare these 2. galaxy s3 versus nexus 4 is more of a fair comparison. Either you want the big screen or you don't, really what it comes down to. The pen is nice too although I seriously doubt how much i'll use it. I believe samsung cameras are superior as well. and i'm sure its gotten better, but frankly stock android sucked to me when i tried it on froyo and gingerbread.
Apples and IEDs
You're comparing Apples and ****ing IEDs; Note is HUGE, wicked fast, polished up with TouchWiz and has the surprisingly useful S-Pen. Nexus devices are wonderful, and I've owned every single one except the two just announced... But you can pry the Note II from my cold dead hands because it is hands down, the greatest device on Earth today.
Ya, I gotta agree, you are comparing two totally different products. While saying your movie collection will help you get over the fact that you will be stuck with 8 or 16 gb worth of space, over time, you will kick yourself for being stuck with 8 or 16 gb worth of space. 64gb microSD cards should be enough for you to stop making silly statements referencing your FLAC collection; it's a no brainer.
The S-Pen should be at the top of your list for a device that's centered around productivity. If you just want to watch movies, buy a tablet.
Long story short, CM10 and the rest of the ROMs are needed on devices... the Note 2 doesn't need them. Oh, and you forgot to compare battery sizes... probably something more important than any rom or even the microSD card slot. On the Note 2, it's glorious!
IMHO i need the sd slot by getting that phone i would have to revert back to ousting my iPod for music amongst the other things I've got on it.. can't do it... sides love the s pen.. this phone is awesome
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
I would personally never buy the nexus 4 simply because it is made by LG and Samsung is far superior when it comes to smart phones. I upgraded my SGS3 to the Note 2 for the larger screen and the extras like the s-pen. Only thing that sucks right now is there are very few accessories for the Note at the moment but Seidio and Otterbox are in the works.
brashmadcap said:
You're comparing Apples and ****ing IEDs; Note is HUGE, wicked fast, polished up with TouchWiz and has the surprisingly useful S-Pen. Nexus devices are wonderful, and I've owned every single one except the two just announced... But you can pry the Note II from my cold dead hands because it is hands down, the greatest device on Earth today.
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You are exactly right.. I honestly don't see how i can honestly go to soothe device after I've had the note 2 i had a guy at work offer me 300 bucks and his white s3 I was like no!! Put the s3 on Craig'slist and get your own...the next phone i buy wool obviously be a note 3... What can i say I'm hooked...
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
I have to agree. The t889 is the way to go. I look at the nexus4 and it is very similar to my t989 with a updated soc and very slightly different size screen. Along with the whole stock android thing. I didn't really feel the need to upgrade to the s3 from my s2 especially since I don't like hardware home buttons. But the note 2 has got me desperately wanting out of my contract so that I can get it. Bigger better screen, s pen, removable battery and sdcard slot. And I don't know about the statement that the qualcomm Soc is better then the exynos they are probably very very close but I'd take the Mali gpu over the adreno any day of the week. If you really want a nexus device just get a 199$ nexus 7. It seems like a better deal then the nexus 4. But you probably wouldn't even use the 7 incher if you had the t889.
I'm not sure what sort of crap people are talking on here and saying the Nexus 4 is crap, but that's an absolutely ridiculous statement. The SoC on the Nexus 4 is definitely faster than the Note II, but honestly Need for Speed Most Wanted is the only thing that doesn't run perfectly on the Note II (and even then we're talking a handful of frame drops that make no difference to gameplay). Most games aren't even close to being as taxing as NFS MW, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Games that usually slow phones down like Plight of the Zombie, and livewallpapers that do the same don't slow down the Note II at all. Everything runs perfectly on the phone.
As for features, it's really TouchWiz vs. stock Android. As nice as Android 4.2 is, the features in TouchWiz are unmatched, even though it can be extremely ugly. What's really nice about the Note II though is that there are already a lot of theming kitchens available, like this one, that make TouchWiz just a little less ugly by letting you customize icons and colors in the interface. Honestly after having the S-Pen features on the Note II, I'm not sure I could go back to any phone that doesn't have such features. It's one of the reasons I'll probably never run an AOSP based ROM on this phone. Of course AOSP has S-Pen gestures now, so there's no telling what the wizards here at XDA will do over time, but for now I bought the Note II for the S-Pen features primarily, and that keeps me from jumping ship from Samsung's stuff.
It's up to you. I'm getting my wife a Nexus 4 for Christmas because although she loves the Note II and the features, it's just a little too large for her. Plus I'd recommend a Nexus 4 over a Galaxy S III any day, but that's a whole 'nother thread. Get the Note II, you won't be sorry. It's by far the best phone I've EVER used.
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bookburner said:
I have to agree. The t889 is the way to go. I look at the nexus4 and it is very similar to my t989 with a updated soc and very slightly different size screen. Along with the whole stock android thing. I didn't really feel the need to upgrade to the s3 from my s2 especially since I don't like hardware home buttons. But the note 2 has got me desperately wanting out of my contract so that I can get it. Bigger better screen, s pen, removable battery and sdcard slot. And I don't know about the statement that the qualcomm Soc is better then the exynos they are probably very very close but I'd take the Mali gpu over the adreno any day of the week. If you really want a nexus device just get a 199$ nexus 7. It seems like a better deal then the nexus 4. But you probably wouldn't even use the 7 incher if you had the t889.
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The Nexus 4 has a Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core and an Adreno 320. It's in a league of its own honestly. The only thing that truly competes with it is the SoC in the iPhone 5. Burns me that that's the case, but facts are facts unfortunately.
Gwanatu said:
I'm not sure what sort of crap people are talking on here and saying the Nexus 4 is crap, but that's an absolutely ridiculous statement. The SoC on the Nexus 4 is definitely faster than the Note II, but honestly Need for Speed Most Wanted is the only thing that doesn't run perfectly on the Note II (and even then we're talking a handful of frame drops that make no difference to gameplay). Most games aren't even close to being as taxing as NFS MW, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Games that usually slow phones down like Plight of the Zombie, and livewallpapers that do the same don't slow down the Note II at all. Everything runs perfectly on the phone.
As for features, it's really TouchWiz vs. stock Android. As nice as Android 4.2 is, the features in TouchWiz are unmatched, even though it can be extremely ugly. What's really nice about the Note II though is that there are already a lot of theming kitchens available, like this one, that make TouchWiz just a little less ugly by letting you customize icons and colors in the interface. Honestly after having the S-Pen features on the Note II, I'm not sure I could go back to any phone that doesn't have such features. It's one of the reasons I'll probably never run an AOSP based ROM on this phone. Of course AOSP has S-Pen gestures now, so there's no telling what the wizards here at XDA will do over time, but for now I bought the Note II for the S-Pen features primarily, and that keeps me from jumping ship from Samsung's stuff.
It's up to you. I'm getting my wife a Nexus 4 for Christmas because although she loves the Note II and the features, it's just a little too large for her. Plus I'd recommend a Nexus 4 over a Galaxy S III any day, but that's a whole 'nother thread. Get the Note II, you won't be sorry. It's by far the best phone I've EVER used.
---------- Post added at 08:49 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:48 AM ----------
The Nexus 4 has a Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core and an Adreno 320. It's in a league of its own honestly. The only thing that truly competes with it is the SoC in the iPhone 5. Burns me that that's the case, but facts are facts unfortunately.
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Imagine a note 2 with a s4 pro
Sent from my SGH-T889 using XDA Premium HD app
I think these devices have really different use cases.
One major draw back for me about the nexus 4 is the battery and SD card. I've owned every nexus devicedevice and while they are amazing devices, there always seems to be some (major)drawback.
This could be said about any phone.
For the note2, the Major drawback is the size, something that I'm OK with. Which is whyi won't be switching to the n4.
brashmadcap said:
You're comparing Apples and ****ing IEDs
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mdt73 said:
Ya, I gotta agree, you are comparing two totally different products.
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I agree they're pretty different, but definitely not comparing apples and oranges (or IEDs). ..mainly because (for most), it's one or the other. They're going to serve the same purpose, even if in different ways.
I've been going crazy, back and forth btwn the two. I told myself I'd never get a non-nexus device again, but leaning more towards the NoteII now. The most important aspect for me now is the developer support. ParanoidAndroid has ruined my crackflashing escapades. I've never been on a ROM so long, and everything else seems weird now.
I hope PA comes soon. Aside from that, I worry about the N4's lack of storage/expandable storage which has seriously been a PITA on my Gnex. That BS from Duarte or another Googler about users not needing expandable memory is bs. And the cloud storage argument is ridiculous. Files commonly accessed get cached on the device anyway and take up space. (preaching to the choir). I'm less concerned about the LTE futureproofing, but it's definitely an issue as well.
dannydv said:
Nexus 4 is crap! Don't buy it or u will regret it!!!!!!
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
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The nexus 4 isnt going to be crap. There are many negative points for me regarding the nexus 4 versus the note 2 but it will not be a bad phone.
On another note. I haven't done any reading or researching on the matter, is the snapdragon really THAT much faster than the exynos? I didnt know such a disparity existed.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
I got the Note II because it has much better battery life than the new Nexus. My last phone was the Galaxy Nexus, a great phone, but I was always carrying an external battery with me or charging it in the wall. Compared to the galaxy nexus (and probably the nexus 4 and most androids out there), my experience so far with the Note II is that the battery life is about twice as good. With the Note II I can leave the bluetooth on, gps on, screen bright, and it's all okay for the day. It also charges super fast at 2amp. It took me longer to charge my Galaxy Nexus even though the battery was much smaller.
Wifi calling, removable battery, larger screen, SD card are nice as well. It seems Google doesn't update their OS that often anymore anyways. I had the Galaxy Nexus for a year and only had very few updates that barely improved anything (where as my Nexus S and Nexus One seemed to have had more significant updates.)
The charging is pretty cool on the note 2. Ive never had a phone with such a huge battery that can chsrge so fast
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
Funny thing is when I had my S2 all I heard is how crappy the snapdragon was and how great he Exynos was, now that the nexus has one all of a sudden its the best. Smh
tigerz0202 said:
Funny thing is when I had my S2 all I heard is how crappy the snapdragon was and how great he Exynos was, now that the nexus has one all of a sudden its the best. Smh
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This exactly.
Sent from my JellyBean Galaxys3

This phone or the Galaxy S3?

It wont be long and my upgrade be here. So I was wondering if I should get this or the s3. I like this one and the fact that is a quad-core and samsung have the same build hardware on all of the note 2. But I also like all the gestures features from the s3
The note 2 has all the features of the s3 plus more. You cant go wrong with it
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
You will need a bigger pocket though....
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
I know I went to see the phone at the store it huge! I didnt know it have all the gestures features like the s3 because they were never announced. Like automatic calling somebody from text by just put your phone in the ear, Smartview. Screenshot by swiping your hand on the screen, etc etc. Those features really caught my eye. but wasnt sure if the note 2 have them. I guess I'll go with the note 2. Thanks guys
gypsy214 said:
I know I went to see the phone at the store it huge! I didnt know it have all the gestures features like the s3 because they were never announced. Like automatic calling somebody from text by just put your phone in the ear, Smartview. Screenshot by swiping your hand on the screen, etc etc. Those features really caught my eye. but wasnt sure if the note 2 have them. I guess I'll go with the note 2. Thanks guys
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Ill tell you what. after using it my s3 feels tiny . almost iphone 4 tiny ........ Btw get the note Trust me i have both
I hate to stir the pot, and I know that it hasnt been talked about yet, but if your upgrade is not here yet and u have some time to wait I would wait for the Galaxy S 4. Now wait! Let me explain! I am currently the very proud owner of the Note 2 with T mobile. This is the best phone on the market, with all of the great Hardware with excellent software to match. I mean the innovation and true attention to detail is unmatched. But I have read some rumors, yeah rumors, that the S4 will be a beast also in a smaller form. I love the huge screen of the Note 2, but you are trying to choose between the Note 2 and S3 so I take that to mean that you are on the fence and the extra screen size really isn't that important. Maybe the power is what u are seeking. Word on the street is that the S4 will bring in new tech, edge to edge screen, quad core, 1080p screen, 2gb ram, new software features, and new design. These things are not outside of the realm of reality and as we can all see Samsung is on a roll. I think this year they found their groove, and they can only get better from here. They are suppossed to announce this sometime end of January and into February. I say all this to say, if u are thinking Note 2 vs. S3. Don't do it as the S3 is so last year. The note 2 is basically the precursor to what we can expect for 2013. Think more like Note 2 vs. S4
Written from my Beast T Mobile Note 2
Also not that its much different but the S3 will NOT be getting LTE on tmobile from what I've heard and the Note will get LTE. Now as far as the Nexus 4, the biggest issue is that it's made by LG Booooo!
Sold my s3 for this phone. No regrets.
From the Best: Note 2
Yeah that is a dissapointed for me too Nexus 4 from LG gosh. I had the G2X and LG support sucks. Really guys I am a little nervous I have the S2 but it have a lot of problems with the noise reduction where other people hears an echo. And if you flash aosp rom or miui they say you sound like underwater and there is not a fix really. I really like how samsung did with their TW but I dont want another samsung and is going to have the same problem as my s2 with call quality. But The s3 and the note2 are really good phones!! The S4 announced in Jan or Feb? The s2 and s3 were announced late of year. I think its too soon for them to release the S4 and by the time i think it will I will have another upgrade lol. The big screen doesnt bother me. When I got my S2 it was big and at first it was wow. But then if I play with another phone like the Amaze It feels weird because of all the small icons. lol
gypsy214 said:
It wont be long and my upgrade be here. So I was wondering if I should get this or the s3. I like this one and the fact that is a quad-core and samsung have the same build hardware on all of the note 2. But I also like all the gestures features from the s3
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Click to collapse
The Note 2 is a different level then the S3, has all the same features and more, and has a much better processor then the S3. It's just about whether the screen size is too big for you.
And I wouldn't worry about waiting for the S4 or Note 3. The S4 might be announced at MWC but I don't think that will happen so soon and the Note won't have a sequel till at least Oct-Nov of next year. Then it'll take at least 2-4 months before the first US carriers get them. So the Note 2 will be king of the hill for quite some time, barring HTC's Dlx when it comes out.
noted for future reference on my Note 2
Either you have been living under a rock, or... who knows. This video will answer your questions, and pretty much make up your mind for you. It's long, but thorough.
Colfustion's Review of the Samsung Galaxy Note 2
And to the bloke who recommended waiting for the S 4... just stop. Recommending non existent hardware just makes you sound silly. It will have a processor similar to the Note 2, a smaller screen, no S-Pen... etc. Not a very good comparison.
I've got both.. and honestly can't make a decision - have to sell one - need the cash.
GOing back to the S3 from the Note, it feels positively TINY...
but, the Note really does feel big; and I've got pretty big hands... whether its too big or not, I guess its partly personal choice and partly ease of use - I don't think I can honestly say that the Note 2 is always easy to operate with a single hand -
Also, to be honest, the alternate rom scene, at least for the T-Mobile Note 2, is pretty limited - I'm not sure if there'll be any "original" android development for it as I guess to make use of the S-pen etc, a vanilla android rom just wouldn't have the features (I'm only guessing here). Most of the rom development would be those "de-bloated/de-odexed/zip aligned" versions of stock TouchWiz rom which claim to mysteriously give longer battery life. I'm currently on the Jedi Rom on my Note 2 and not really sure how different it is to the stock rom.
On my S3, I've got Task's Rom, and it truly made a huge difference to the battery life - to the point I'm comfortable returning to the standard Samsung battery form the extended Hyperion 4200 mAH one I had bough due to the horrible battery life the S3 has (on cellular internet) when on the stock rom - with Task's rom, there is a marked, appreciable improvement in battery life.
Right, coming back, I still can't figure out which one to keep and which one to sell - I'm pretty sure, whichever decision I take, I'll regret it cos both the S3 and Note 2 are really and truly excellent products!!!.
RizSher said:
I've got both.. and honestly can't make a decision - have to sell one - need the cash.
GOing back to the S3 from the Note, it feels positively TINY...
but, the Note really does feel too big. and I've got pretty big hands.
Also, to be honest, the alternate rom scene, at least for the T-Mobile Note 2, is pretty limited - I'm not sure if there'll be any "original" android development for it as I guess to make use of the S-pen etc, a vanilla android rom just wouldn't have the features (I'm only guessing here). Most of the rom development would be those "de-bloated/de-odexed/zip aligned" versions of stock TouchWiz rom which claim to mysteriously give longer battery life. I'm currently on the Jedi Rom on my Note 2 and not really sure how different it is to the stock rom.
On my S3, I've got Task's Rom, and it truly made a huge difference to the battery life - to the point I'm comfortable returning to the standard Samsung battery form the extended Hyperion 4200 mAH battery I had bough due to the horrible battery life the S3 has (on cellular internet) - with Task's rom, there is a marked, appreciable improvement in battery life.
Right, coming back, I still can't figure out which one to keep and which one to sell - I'm pretty sure, whichever decision I take, I'll regret it cos both the S3 and Note 2 are really and truly excellent products!!!.
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The phone has been out for less than a month in the US. I think the ROMs will come, in time. Plus, the battery in the Note 2 is amazing... ever try running the battery down to 5% on purpose? It's actually harder than I thought it would be! That's the beauty of the Note 2; the battery is big enough, by itself, that minimal changes are needed to constantly see 24+ hours on one charge. I have had both the S3 and now the Note 2, and I would never recommend an S3 over the Note. The S-Pen alone is > any wizbang S3 thing out there!
mdt73 said:
The phone has been out for less than a month in the US. I think the ROMs will come, in time. Plus, the battery in the Note 2 is amazing... ever try running the battery down to 5% on purpose? It's actually harder than I thought it would be! That's the beauty of the Note 2; the battery is big enough, by itself, that minimal changes are needed to constantly see 24+ hours on one charge. I have had both the S3 and now the Note 2, and I would never recommend an S3 over the Note. The S-Pen alone is > any wizbang S3 thing out there!
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I wasn't making a point about the Note's battery life - it really is pretty good - what I waas trying to say was, the S3 alternate ROM scene is very vibrant; the particular ROM I've got currently make a noticeable diff. in battery life; based on my guess work I'm not very sure if the same would happen for the Note.
Seems like all of the Note 2 series including the international one are the same hardware. Why not make it a worldwide phone with a universal radio. or Like on my Sensation? I may be wrong but in any case do like the tmobile version of the s2 and the skyrocket which are very similar phones
gypsy214 said:
It wont be long and my upgrade be here. So I was wondering if I should get this or the s3. I like this one and the fact that is a quad-core and samsung have the same build hardware on all of the note 2. But I also like all the gestures features from the s3
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Click to collapse
The note 2 can do anything the S3 can but better.. and bigger.. and with a stylus

Other device and upgrading phone discussion

Please use this thread to discuss all other devices and comparisons.
Thank you
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
I'll go first. Staying with my note 2. Not giving up my stylus just yet. No other phone has impressed me enough to give up my GN2 just yet.
According to the commercials "The Next Big Thing is Already Here"....and I have it =D. I am totally content with my phone. I use the stylus daily, it is beyond convenient and productive. Contrary to what I suspected prior to buying my GN2, the size is just right for me. I have small hands but I do just fine with it; albeit I do get the occassional hand cramp from holding it; but that's because I rarely put it down I've been totally spoiled by the size, and couldn't imagine having a smaller screen. I was putting games on my Captivate for my lil one to play on, and I giggled...how did I live with that tiny screen. On the flip side I also couldn't imagine going any bigger, with that said I plan on keeping my Note 2 for a long time.
Im trying to decide between the S4 and the Note 3 whenever it comes out. I do love the larger screen size of the Note 2.
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
I don't think I can ever go back to a smaller screen, so I'll most likely be getting the note 3.
Sent from my GT-N7105
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
After you own a note 2,every other device looks so tiny. I'll just wait for the note 3.
Edit: WOW this thread is a sticky now,I think a sticky should be informative not a conversation.
Edit 2: no pun intended.
sent by,note 2 using liquidsmooth.
Glad this thread is here. When I had my One X, every other thread was a comparison thread. Just mucked up the forums honestly.
Good idea Mod!
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
z28tovette said:
After you own a note 2,every other device looks so tiny. I'll just wait for the note 3.
Edit: WOW this thread is a sticky now,I think a sticky should be informative not a conversation.
Edit 2: no pun intended.
Edit: some users don't bother looking at sticky threads. So you'll see more comparison threads.
sent by,note 2 using liquidsmooth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sent by,note 2 using liquidsmooth.
The HTC One has my attention, but I'm just not sure that I'm willing to part with my GN2 yet. The only thing that hacks me off about Samsung is their insistence on the cheap plastic finish.
The fit and finish of the HTC One may lure me in...I'll decide when I see it in person.
I would never go to another phone, so either way I will wait for note3 or if something bad happens to me phone I will just buy a new note2.
MissyKoneko said:
I would never go to another phone, so either way I will wait for note3 or if something bad happens to me phone I will just buy a new note2.
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Click to collapse
well hopefully the rumour about the note 3 having a LCD screen is false I rather have the AMOLED screen even if the reason for the LCD screen is better use of the S-pen.
MissyKoneko said:
I would never go to another phone, so either way I will wait for note3 or if something bad happens to me phone I will just buy a new note2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, I love my Note 2 a lot, finally feel like I have a phone that is great and has what I want.
Just finished watching the first episode of the S IV launch event the new features seems really cool for it, but just as you said will wait to see what they do to the Note 3.
I think I'm sold on the S4, although I do love my Note 2. But... will a lot of the S4 features, software wise, is just a part of an updated OS or apps that we can use on the Note 2? That could potentially keep me here. But then again the 13mpx camera and 441dpi is very tempting.
ThaiM said:
I think I'm sold on the S4, although I do love my Note 2. But... will a lot of the S4 features, software wise, is just a part of an updated OS or apps that we can use on the Note 2? That could potentially keep me here. But then again the 13mpx camera and 441dpi is very tempting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well most of the features that are on the s4 will be coming to the note 2 so the rumor goes with the 4.22 update but we will probably get the update when the note 3 comes out and it will have all those features and then some.
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
I don't understand the "I hate the plastic' on the Samsung phone...
I ride a Triumph motorcycle that will do 150mph+ and it has a plastic body covering an awesome engine and frame and even better electronics ... JUST like my Samsung note 2 (or future galaxy 4)
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 2
I'm Taking a pass on GS4 holding out for Note 3
andrawer said:
I don't understand the "I hate the plastic' on the Samsung phone...
I ride a Triumph motorcycle that will do 150mph+ and it has a plastic body covering an awesome engine and frame and even better electronics ... JUST like my Samsung note 2 (or future galaxy 4)
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Speed Triple has plastic?
ThaiM said:
I think I'm sold on the S4, although I do love my Note 2. But... will a lot of the S4 features, software wise, is just a part of an updated OS or apps that we can use on the Note 2? That could potentially keep me here. But then again the 13mpx camera and 441dpi is very tempting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not in a million years. The S4 looks OK, but is in no way a replacement for the Note 2.
1 - I will never use any of those "features" on the S4. Like MKBHD mentioned on his S4 video, and I agree, the new features are attractive to people who are not very phone-literate. If you want to use different apps other than the standard ones, you'll lose them anyway, like the smart pause. I don't see myself using any of the new features they announced.
2 - The battery life is virtually guaranteed to suck when compared to the Note 2. If it's anything like the S3, which I owned and gladly sold within 2 months, there won't be ROMs or kernels good enough to make the battery last anywhere close to the Note 2. Unless you need the absolutely fastest phone in the world, you don't need an S4. The processor is gonna run your battery to the ground with very little use, I'm sure.
3 - Having been a completely satisfied Note 2 owner for about 3 months, I think the S4 is too small! Well, anything else is too small for that matter.
4 - No S-Pen = FAIL. The S-Pen is one of the highlights of the Note 2 and I now expect all phones to have it (OK, that's unrealistic, but it would be really nice!).
As many users here said, I don't think I'll ever buy anything other than Notes from now on. I'll wait for the Note 3 or 4 depending on how excited I get when they come out.
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
Main reason am gonna stick to Note2 is for Exynos processor.
I have used International version of S2 which had dual core exynos processor than S2lte with snapdragon and it sucked.
Then comes the North American S3 (big update in snapdragon processer), but still was behind in smoothness comparing international version of S3 having exynos quadcore porcesser.
And comes the beast Note2 with exynos processor and 2gb Ram as addon, nothing can beat smoothness of this phone.
Snapdragon qualcomm processer has got better, but for me are still behind in smoothness comparing to exynos.
Hoping Note3 to come with exynos like of Note2, orelse I will have to go with international version at cost of no LTE.
Sent from my SGH-I317M Samsung Galaxy Note2 LTE Rogers Canada using xda app-developers app
Re: Off-topic other device and upgrading phone discussion
I just picked up a note 2 last week and really like it,havent even looked at my s3 since lol..i will buy the s4 as well though just to check it out..one can never have enough tech around :thumbup:
Sent from my SGH-I317M using xda premium

[Q] s4 or note II?

what's your opinion?
No one can answer that for you. They serve different purposes. It's not about which one had the larger battery or which one has faster processor. If you talk on your phone a lot I suggest getting the s4. If you really like using a tablet like device but also use the phone occasionally, get the note. I'm not gonna do a specs by specs or features by features comparison. It's simple. The note series is the most advanced phones out there. It has everything the Galaxy S phones will have and does everything bigger and better. Is that what you want?
thx, i guess i got the point now
I must say, ive loved the Galaxy note series and the note 2 was the best phone I've had. However, as much as I've loved the spen, the size really did become bothersome to carry around everywhere. That's why I'm moving to the smaller s4. If you are a professional then the note 2 is still probably a good option for you with its true multitasking capabilities.
Personally I liked the Note 2 and would've gotten one over the S4 if they kept teasing it. I kinda want a note 2, but I like my S4 (with the exception of no console controllers over bluetooth of course, for now).
I went from a Note 2 to the S4 and I must say for me it was worth it (S4) unless you really utilize the s pen, which I didn't. The N2 was getting a little big I must admit and I was missing the phone size phone if you know what I mean.
There are many things I like about the S4 over the N2. Screen touch response for sure has improved to a whole another level. The screen, although there is nothing to complain about the N2, is noticeably a huge bump. The cpu seems a bit snappier; I prefer the exynos anyday... Camera and features on the S4 rule. Best of all, better reception! I have 2 more bars than before at my office. Over all build quality is to my taste too.
If can... Go S4
Sent from my S4
I have both and use Google voice so I can use both as needed. I too was getting a little tired of the big phone all the time. I loved it for business trips because of battery life and the tablet like features to browse the web with a large screen.
The fist thing about the S4 that is significantly better is the screen quality. I also like the feel of the S4 in my hand. What I don't like is some of the software differences. I liked the buddy screen on then Note 2 so I can select certain apps to use with head phones or to launch when I put the phone in the cradles The s4 has a better email client but doesn't have text flow in the browser which really stinks.
Again there is no perfect phone. I would like the best software features of the Note 2 and the new features of the S4 in one phone.
I will be completely honest I always get the latest and best phone thats out and I kept looking at youtube videos trying to decide should I get either of these phones. Being the htc one or s4. I wasnt blown away by either phone and I was really suprise and I can honestly say that the note 2 is still the best out and im not saying that just to say it. The one r s4 isnt worth a 2year commitment. The one is better built the s4 feels very cheap the note 2 feels better constructed.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda premium
For me GS4 doesn't feel cheaper than Note2, it feels lighter that is a huuge plus. Lighter not means cheaper, for me.
Also came to GS4 after Note2. GS4 I can say for me the same Note2 but in comfortable size. Feels awesome in hand. Pefrect display size, small margins.
Never used S Pen of Note2.

Worth switching from N2?

I currently have a GN2. S4 worth switching to? (Who has...pros/cons?) I have 20 days from TMO to make the choice, but input from experience would be quite helpful.
Reasons for possibly changing:
*Same price for more features
*Better camera
*Better specs
My only concern is the screen may feel too small, I know my TB, and iphone felt stupidly small after N2, But 5 Inches may not feel as lethargic as 4.3/4.
Goto a store doesnt matter what carrier then hold the s4 in your hand at that moment all your questions will be answered.
Trust me on this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2270273
I have the note 2 and s4 its great but it doesn't have pop up browser grrrrrrr
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
Nyxagamemnon said:
Goto a store doesnt matter what carrier then hold the s4 in your hand at that moment all your questions will be answered.
Trust me on this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah cant be that good. I know the s4 launcher sucks im using it now. I hate it. But the phone is definetly not bad. Its good as thw note. But I use the note for so much more than just a phone. Its actually more important to me than my laptop.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
janjannsen99 said:
Ah cant be that good. I know the s4 launcher sucks im using it now. I hate it. But the phone is definetly not bad. Its good as thw note. But I use the note for so much more than just a phone. Its actually more important to me than my laptop.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use Dodol on the N2. Try that launcher At this point, does seem like I will have to play with the S4 in a store...
Nyxagamemnon said:
Trust me on this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TRUST him on this bro.
trust him.
nxneko said:
I currently have a GN2. S4 worth switching to? (Who has...pros/cons?) I have 20 days from TMO to make the choice, but input from experience would be quite helpful.
Reasons for possibly changing:
*Same price for more features
*Better camera
*Better specs
My only concern is the screen may feel too small, I know my TB, and iphone felt stupidly small after N2, But 5 Inches may not feel as lethargic as 4.3/4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had both (T-889, I9500 & M19) and kinda miss my note to be honest. If you find the real estate the most attractive on the Note 2, you will miss it on the GS4. Another thing I miss is the battery life on the Note 2, that thing could last me 2 days without a charge. Overall the the GS4 is a nice device (my personal unit is the i9500) and definitely has some advantages over the Note 2 (full hd, 13mp, newer gpu/cpu) but over all the Note 2 feels much more polished. The screen is more responsive, the UI has had the kinks of the CPU/GPU ironed out from the S3, and the S-Pen makes drawing super easy and fun. I'm sure the development will only help the pros of the GS4, but out of box experience was much better on the Note 2, it even had a more "premium feel". I'm gonna stick it out for a bit with the GS4, but may end up going back to my Note.
not very worth...note 2 is a very good.
fast enough.
KillaHurtz said:
I've had both (T-889, I9500 & M19) and kinda miss my note to be honest. If you find the real estate the most attractive on the Note 2, you will miss it on the GS4. Another thing I miss is the battery life on the Note 2, that thing could last me 2 days without a charge. Overall the the GS4 is a nice device (my personal unit is the i9500) and definitely has some advantages over the Note 2 (full hd, 13mp, newer gpu/cpu) but over all the Note 2 feels much more polished. The screen is more responsive, the UI has had the kinks of the CPU/GPU ironed out from the S3, and the S-Pen makes drawing super easy and fun. I'm sure the development will only help the pros of the GS4, but out of box experience was much better on the Note 2, it even had a more "premium feel". I'm gonna stick it out for a bit with the GS4, but may end up going back to my Note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone actually slid out of my hand once because it got so slippery.... like 4x actually. that glossy back body is a nightmare (I got a custom backing tho now)
Yeah, all the kinks should be ironed out with roms and OTAs over the coming months though. Battery life wise...Ive seen so many differences in screen on-time its insane in the thread in general. For example, I was going to go with the htc one...until I learned of its battery life (I stole a co-workers one and 1 hr 34min of screen ontime put phone at 65% battery - Thunderbolt moment, anyone?) I get 6HR or so of ontime with the N2 on Verizons LTE and since LTE drains faster...Im guessing I would get more out of the tmo n2? (Wild guess) - Sadly even though Florida is one of TMOs most covered states...I don't think my city got lte yet.
I love the N2, However...
The S4 is like a baker walking by with a more delicious looking tiny cupcake when you just got a huge piece of cake. not only that but... I work at a themepark, and 3/5 people have white GS3 or N2.... It was insanity (Mostly GS3 Dominant, but I could tell there were plenty of N2 Tucked behind otterboxes due to the SPen slot cutout) the S4 At least would be a slight step away from that...
If you are used to the size of the Note 2, the only logical upgrades in the future would be to another Note (Note 3, Note 4, ...). Note 2 is still probably more productive for multitasking than the S4. You won't need features like Air Gestures or Smart Scroll (which probably can be added to N2 in the future). IR blaster is fun to use, but probably not a necessity. If you carry a tablet and a phone, the Note is probably more suited for you. If you just talk on your phone and like to browse a lot, not do any real work, the S4 is the perfect size phone. I've had both so I know. I like the feel of the S4, and the 5" screen doesn't make it tiny at all compared to the 5.5" N2.
GG2012 said:
If you are used to the size of the Note 2, the only logical upgrades in the future would be to another Note (Note 3, Note 4, ...). Note 2 is still probably more productive for multitasking than the S4. You won't need features like Air Gestures or Smart Scroll (which probably can be added to N2 in the future). IR blaster is fun to use, but probably not a necessity. If you carry a tablet and a phone, the Note is probably more suited for you. If you just talk on your phone and like to browse a lot, not do any real work, the S4 is the perfect size phone. I've had both so I know. I like the feel of the S4, and the 5" screen doesn't make it tiny at all compared to the 5.5" N2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mostly use it for just texting, and IM+ Is -constantly- being used. The only issues with the N2 i had was use in daylight screen was impossible to see for me, and it got slightly awkward handling it with one hand. I also use the camera a LOT for taking product photos for etsy. I only used SPen to doodle random things and send it to whoever i was talking to when I felt it was suddenly more convenient then typing.
...I will also state, speaker mode in calls sucked really bad. I never liked calling on N2 much.
nxneko said:
I mostly use it for just texting, and IM+ Is -constantly- being used. The only issues with the N2 i had was use in daylight screen was impossible to see for me, and it got slightly awkward handling it with one hand. I also use the camera a LOT for taking product photos for etsy. I only used SPen to doodle random things and send it to whoever i was talking to when I felt it was suddenly more convenient then typing.
...I will also state, speaker mode in calls sucked really bad. I never liked calling on N2 much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can tell you right now the S4 is not that much better in daylight, compared to the HTC One which is brighter. It's almost impossible for me to see as well with full brightness. While I could handle the N2 size in one hand, I find the smaller form factor of the S4 to be much more comfortable, hence why I decided to get the S4. Plus, I find myself using the SPen less and less with the N2, so I was willing to let that go. If they made the S4 screen work with an SPen, that would have been great (I don't mind not having a holder).
GG2012 said:
I can tell you right now the S4 is not that much better in daylight, compared to the HTC One which is brighter. It's almost impossible for me to see as well with full brightness. While I could handle the N2 size in one hand, I find the smaller form factor of the S4 to be much more comfortable, hence why I decided to get the S4. Plus, I find myself using the SPen less and less with the N2, so I was willing to let that go. If they made the S4 screen work with an SPen, that would have been great (I don't mind not having a holder).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I could one-hand it...but I basically have teen sized hands (short) I never minded the size because of purse. In your opinion, is the S4 Worth the switch from a new-phone standpoint (not upgrade) I would never go HTC after thunderbolt...esp since S4 has a better headphone dac.
nxneko said:
I wish I could one-hand it...but I basically have teen sized hands (short) I never minded the size because of purse. In your opinion, is the S4 Worth the switch from a new-phone standpoint (not upgrade) I would never go HTC after thunderbolt...esp since S4 has a better headphone dac.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this moment, probably not. I would at least wait and see what Google has in store software/hardware wise for Android, as Google I/O is next week.

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