Develop Bugs

LTE vs HSPA+ Pros and Cons ?

Can anyone explain this to me ? All I hear is LTE kills battery, so whats the point of LTE when T-mobile HSPA+ 42Mbps has pretty much the same speed as LTE without causing any battery drain. And why would you need 30Mbps anyway on a limited data plan ? My current Tmobile 3G (not 4G or HSPA+) pulls anywhere from 2.5-5.0 Mbps right now....on older HD2 and Nexus One

GSM version of Galaxy Nexus on T-Mobile does not go up to 41Mbps speeds. It can only go up to 21Mb (this is the reasoning why Galaxy S2 on T-Mobile went with Qualcomm's CPU instead of Samsung's Exynos to hit 41Mbps speeds), this is all speaking theoretically as well. Realistically, I haven't gotten to those speeds.
And people "need 30Mbps" on their phones simply because.... they can.

HSPA+ in its current implementation is definitely not as fast as Verizon's LTE, but as you said it surely is fast and it is more than enough for most people. You can definitely expect upwards of 10mbps down, which is great.
Its really a personal call. Some people are on Verizon because its the only carrier available consistently in their area, or they've been a long-time customer, or they're part of a family plan with others on Verizon.
If you're on T-mobile and happy with your service, you're definitely saving money staying with them. If you can buy it unlocked it is definitely a good choice. You're not missing out on anything by staying with T-Mo and the HSPA+ Galaxy Nexus.

Cause we like to stream stuff?
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk

zephiK said:
GSM version of Galaxy Nexus on T-Mobile does not go up to 41Mbps speeds. It can only go up to 21Mb (this is the reasoning why Galaxy S2 on T-Mobile went with Qualcomm's CPU instead of Samsung's Exynos to hit 41Mbps speeds), this is all speaking theoretically as well. Realistically, I haven't gotten to those speeds.
And people "need 30Mbps" on their phones simply because.... they can.
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Whats your speed in NYC ?
martonikaj said:
HSPA+ in its current implementation is definitely not as fast as Verizon's LTE, but as you said it surely is fast and it is more than enough for most people. You can definitely expect upwards of 10mbps down, which is great.
Its really a personal call. Some people are on Verizon because its the only carrier available consistently in their area, or they've been a long-time customer, or they're part of a family plan with others on Verizon.
If you're on T-mobile and happy with your service, you're definitely saving money staying with them. If you can buy it unlocked it is definitely a good choice. You're not missing out on anything by staying with T-Mo and the HSPA+ Galaxy Nexus.
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My buddy has been testing his Nexus and Droid X on Verizon....Nexus got up to 27mbps and DroidX on 3G pulled only 500kbps. I mean I would rather get constant 2-3mbps then switchs between LTE 27m and CDMA 500k. I want to switch to Verizon because it will be the same price as Tmobile, but I am affraid that LTE will kill battery and CDMA is dirt slow. I am in Boston area by the way.
also some reviews say that LTE kills battery while car charging....this just scares me.....i can stream music + use Google navigation at the same time and have brightness at auto and i still dont charge my phone in car....my 1250 battery in HD2 lasts 12-14 hours on that heavy use.

kolyan said:
but I am affraid that LTE will kill battery and CDMA is dirt slow.
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Both of these things are very true.

I have the LTE nexus, and yes, LTE does do a number on the battery, and yes, it is ever so slightly thicker. however, I'm pulling 10 mb/s down in a very poor coverage area, and a reliable 40+ mb/s down when I get closer to the city. (I live on an away facing side of a hill a few miles outside of a town). Also, without 4g, atleast in my area, I can pull 1-2 mb/s down, but thats not as reliable. I like that speed, and I am willing to charge my phone twice in a day.
In all reality, you wont notice too much of a difference between 10-20 mb/s (HSPA+) and 30-50 mb/s (LTE in my area) on a phone. What you will notice is the difference between coverage and no coverage. Which again favors the Verizon model.

These are THEORETICAL max speeds you are talking about.
In reality the speeds you get will be no where close to the theoretical max speeds the technology can handle. Those speeds might be attainable if you are the only one on the network and are standing under a cell tower.
T-Mobile HSPA+ speeds in NYC are 5.4mbps down, and 1.6mbps up (tested on my friend's International Galaxy Nexus)
LTE max theoretical speed is 299.6 mbps. In reality the speeds I tested in NYC on my Verizon Galaxy Nexus are 26.79mbps down and 7.20mbps up.
http://www.speedtest.net/android/114425608.png

Results will vary but I pull 1-1.5Mbps on 3g so I can live with that. Verizon is the only carrier at my house. T-Mobile doest have coverage in the rural area where I live. If I went with them I'd only have service at work and while running errands downtown.
I get 3g at home and LTE just a few miles away. Part of me wishes that I could use T-Mobile but its not practical where I live and do business.
One last thing, LTE reception is great in the basement of my workplace!
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

I'm curious to see Verizon LTE speeds once people start buying LTE phones.

It is almost important to note that LTE is not only faster, but also capable of keeping the signal while you are moving rather fast. Like in cars and trains
Sent from Galaxy Nexus hspa+ 16gb

I get 40-50 mb/s down and 10-20 up, thats why

kolyan said:
Can anyone explain this to me ? All I hear is LTE kills battery, so whats the point of LTE when T-mobile HSPA+ 42Mbps has pretty much the same speed as LTE without causing any battery drain. And why would you need 30Mbps anyway on a limited data plan ? My current Tmobile 3G (not 4G or HSPA+) pulls anywhere from 2.5-5.0 Mbps right now....on older HD2 and Nexus One
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Click to collapse
I think you are answering your own question. TMo and AT&T will be slower but use less battery. In the end I'd just decide if you want to be on Verizon or want a GSM phone. Your call.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

kolyan said:
Can anyone explain this to me ? All I hear is LTE kills battery, so whats the point of LTE when T-mobile HSPA+ 42Mbps has pretty much the same speed as LTE without causing any battery drain. And why would you need 30Mbps anyway on a limited data plan ? My current Tmobile 3G (not 4G or HSPA+) pulls anywhere from 2.5-5.0 Mbps right now....on older HD2 and Nexus One
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE does kill the battery, but there is an extended battery (Still, I'm not sure how well the battery life improves with the extended battery)
The speed is all about how you feel and what you need. I'd say if you get great LTE coverage in your area and where you're going to be and you'd be fine with the smaller battery life and such, go for the LTE model. HSPA+ speeds are proven to be slower than the LTE speeds (i've seen some users get up to 15-16 down and 12-13 UP while HSPA+ get's us 8-10 DOWN 5-9 UP) But what are you going to do with the 15 mb/s speed?
Since you are T-Mobile, I don't know if you're going to have to switch data plans to access the HSPA+ speeds as some people who are on AT&T (including me) had to do this as well.

rexdog1888 said:
I get 40-50 mb/s down and 10-20 up, thats why
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Click to collapse
And what can you do with that, that you can't do with 10 mb/s down on HSPA+?

[hfm] said:
I think you are answering your own question. TMo and AT&T will be slower but use less battery. In the end I'd just decide if you want to be on Verizon or want a GSM phone. Your call.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
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lol...not that easy. I am on Tmo with contract (200 to break now and 100 in a month) I very much prefer GSM over Verizon, but my wife doesn't get any service at work. I am somewhat happy with Tmo, I get service everywhere but when I go places like skiing there is usually just 2g with GPRS or EDGE at best.....I have no idea about Verizon. My battery is just amazing.... I never use any chargers other then at night. Price for service will be the same at both, but I will have to make new 2 year contract at Verizon, I will also get Nexus for myself at $150 and Incredible for wife for free....so new phones is nice to get... my wife not really happy with current Nexus One and I would love to have GN. If I stay with Tmo.... paying 650+ for NS is pricy....

kolyan said:
lol...not that easy. I am on Tmo with contract (200 to break now and 100 in a month) I very much prefer GSM over Verizon, but my wife doesn't get any service at work. I am somewhat happy with Tmo, I get service everywhere but when I go places like skiing there is usually just 2g with GPRS or EDGE at best.....I have no idea about Verizon. My battery is just amazing.... I never use any chargers other then at night. Price for service will be the same at both, but I will have to make new 2 year contract at Verizon, I will also get Nexus for myself at $150 and Incredible for wife for free....so new phones is nice to get... my wife not really happy with current Nexus One and I would love to have GN. If I stay with Tmo.... paying 650+ for NS is pricy....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, lets weigh out the pros and cons.
VERIZON
Pros:
1) You only spend about 400 going with Verizon.
2) Your wife may get signal at work.
Cons:
1) Battery life using LTE (But you can always turn off LTE)
2) Your wife may not get signal at work. (You never know..)
TMO
Pros:
1) You stay with a company that you've known and have been with for a while.
2) You get to have the flexibility of staying on a GSM provider. Meaning you get the freedom of switching world phones whenever you need to and not having to get it activated and what not.
Cons:
1) You spend more money. (About 250 more just for the GN, and maybe more for your wife's new phone.
2) Your wife will still not get any signal at work.
I guess its really what makes your wife happy. ;D Kidding. I'd bet on Verizon, but only if having a weak battery and not having places to charge your phone aren't complete deal breakers.
Speed won't really be a BIG BIG factor because while LTE and HSPA realtime speeds do differ, the coverage area for both aren't super complete. In both cases, you'll be constrained to 3G/HSPA. But then again this has to do with your coverage area that we know nothing about.

going to Verizon with 2 new phones, Google Voice porting, and paying Tmobile cancelation fee should all be pretty much covered by selling my tmo phones. My wife doesnt really care if she gets service at work she is not picky. In reallity i guess its all about me wanting Nexus and better coverage, but cdma and lte is a big compromise for me.
i'll figure this out soon.....

Think of it this way,
You can get 2 Ferraris:
One with the original Ferrari engine.
And one with 4 cylinder engine in it.
You will do 30 mpg on your 4 cylinder engine Ferrari and will get to the same place as the other Ferrari goes, but just a "little bit" slower.
I made the switch to Verizon and not planing on swapping to a 4 cylinder engine any time soon.

martonikaj said:
And what can you do with that, that you can't do with 10 mb/s down on HSPA+?
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Anything you can do on a home internet service.

Does not having lte even make a difference?

Hi everyone, I've got a small question to ask.
I've been reading reviews about all the different North American bound GSIII's, and I have noticed that while the "maximum theoritical speed" of lte is around double that of hspda+, there isn't really a difference in usability .
I mean to say, when you use the phone, it is blazing fast right? Not gimped :victory:
I'm about to get it on a Canadian Carrier that uses AWS, and was wondering if I should spring for the lte, non AWS version.
Thanks in advance
(sorry if this isn't even a question )

Of course it makes a difference. It means the battery will last a fair amount longer.

IMO HSPA+ is good enough. You won't notice the real world difference between the two, given that you have enough HSPA coverage. LTE is a newer technology but as I've heard it drains battery too quick. I'd prefer a longer battery life with decent speeds throughout a day than to have the phone die on me more quickly just to boast a faster speed that I probably won't notice.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium

stevessvt said:
Of course it makes a difference. It means the battery will last a fair amount longer.
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Click to collapse
jaygajay said:
IMO HSPA+ is good enough. You won't notice the real world difference between the two, given that you have enough HSPA coverage. LTE is a newer technology but as I've heard it drains battery too quick. I'd prefer a longer battery life with decent speeds throughout a day than to have the phone die on me more quickly just to boast a faster speed that I probably won't notice.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with both. Wish T-Mobile wouldn't be putting time and money towards lte. It's already faster than Verizon. Even on my aosp ROM which doesn't get the full speeds it blew away Verizon lte using the speed test app.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2

Skype and stuff would be clearer on LTE of course, but with a strong 4g signal it is pretty fast. Most people crab about bandwidth, but in all reality most people never use near all of it. On a phone getting 15 or 20 meg you can do anything. What does LTE speed test at?
I know when I had Verizon my battery would go super fast on LTE.

jjlean said:
Skype and stuff would be clearer on LTE of course, but with a strong 4g signal it is pretty fast. Most people crab about bandwidth, but in all reality most people never use near all of it. On a phone getting 15 or 20 meg you can do anything. What does LTE speed test at?
I know when I had Verizon my battery would go super fast on LTE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I had Verizon in Chicago I would speed test around 30-40mbps. Sure it's cool to see big numbers, but it isn't a huge deal.
LTE is a bit gentler on battery these days as well. My friend's S3 gets pretty good battery life on Verizon but he also has amazing LTE coverage where he is.
Sent from my SGH-T999

There are other improvements in LTE other than raw speed, such as latency, air interface, architecture, etc. Granted HSPA is an improvement over standard UMTS, and actually can provide plenty of raw bandwidth for most applications, if implemented properly. Some of the architectural changes are already, at least partially, implemented in HSPA.
With that said, I have never found myself regretting not having LTE (on T-Mobile) over HSPA. I get 10Mb down easily and sometimes more in my area (DC Metro). I imagine LTE is faster in this area in terms of raw speed, but I don't really care. I will take the better battery life and simultaneous data/voice any day over that extra data speed at this point in time. I actually think that the way T-Mobile is going about the upgrade makes a lot of technical sense. Granted the CDMA carriers were at a bit of a disadvantage when it comes to implementing LTE (frequencies aside). Since LTE is actually in the GSM family, sharing some standards and concepts with those descendants, they have had to implement more of a hybrid system.
Bottom line - I think HSPA is a much better trade off for speed, functionality, battery, etc. at this point in time than LTE is. I wouldn't worry about not having LTE in the GS3 at this time. I think that by the time T-Mobile gets their LTE network up and running in most major areas, the next generation phones will be here. If you are into marketing hype, by all means go for LTE now. If you are more into real world results, then don't worry about it, and be happy with HSPA for now.
LTE is a bit gentler on battery these days as well.
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Click to collapse
True, and that will only improve over time, just as early UMTS/HSPA implementations did. Early LTE chipsets really had horrendous battery life, to the point of severely limiting the usefulness of LTE. I actually think 2013 will be a good year for LTE adoption. T-Mobile is right on schedule, they just have to fight that marketing battle.

I still prefer HSPA+ 42mbps... I average 20mbps down and 3mbps up
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Premium HD app

big battery drainer, stick with HSPA+

Thanks for all the replies. I guess I'll just get the AWS SIII then (not on tmobile though :victory
BTW: I didn't know lte couldn't do voice/data at the same time! )

BTW: I didn't know lte couldn't do voice/data at the same time!
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Click to collapse
Oh no, it can. It's just the way it is implemented right now. It is not an LTE limitation.

Between T-Mobile and AT&T, T-Mobile has the best HSPA+. I can get 24Mbps in my city. So, it makes a difference of about 10Mbps, it's not a big deal when you really think about it and use it.
T-Mobile (by accident) will have the best data coverage in the future. Look at how good their HSPA+ is right now and then think about when they're finished rolling out LTE. People can get one signal or the other.
To answer your question, it matters if you and your friends are racing who can download a file the fastest. You'll lose by two seconds...

Snook321 said:
I still prefer HSPA+ 42mbps... I average 20mbps down and 3mbps up
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Premium HD app
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That's what I average here in the Placerville, CA area. My friends who have Verizon LTE get pretty much the same speeds.

Last question: does lte even make a difference in battery life? I mean, if it does, is the t999's battery life slightly better than the i747's?

Last question: does lte even make a difference in battery life? I mean, if it does, is the t999's battery life slightly better than the i747's?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it does if you have it on. The reason being that LTE radios and chips are not as mature as HSPA implementations. It was the same situation with the move from GSM to UMTS. Remember the first iPhone didn't have 3G primarily because of battery drain on 3G networks. The situation quickly improved, as it will/is with LTE.
So, I would say the battery life in the T999 would be better than the i747 if you actually use LTE on the latter. That is just an educated guess though. By how much, I don't know, but I imagine it would be measurable. Might want to ask on the i747 forum about their battery life. It might not be a big deal.

redhooka said:
That's what I average here in the Placerville, CA area. My friends who have Verizon LTE get pretty much the same speeds.
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Click to collapse
What's the difference in your bills if you don't mind me asking?

T-Mobile customer since Voicestream days, so I'm a loyal customer
Here's my personal experience.
I have a Verizon LTE Mifi. One day I was sitting in Portland air port waiting for a flight. Bored, I started to surf the net. 15 minutes in, I remember thinking to myself, WOW, T-Mobile is fast today! Then I saw my wifi icon is lit, and realized that I have forgotten to turn off my Mifi, and I was running on LTE.
So, yes, you CAN tell the difference, but when T-Mobile's 3G is running correctly though, it's not a huge difference, but certainly noticeable.
BTW, even on Verizon's slow 3G speed, I can still make Skype calls, and it worked flawlessly.

Friend of mine has at&t gs3 and he averages around 31mbps down and 20ish mbps up on LTE. The other day he got 61mbps down but only 100kbps up on one speed test. I'm perfectly happy with tmobile HSPA+ though, and have been getting exceptional battery life on just rooted stock with slight debloating.

I finally hit 12mbps in toledo last night my old g2 was struggling for even 5 I thought the area just sucked but it's probably the better antennas in this s3. My wifi does 15 so im happy with this. When I go to bigger cities like Chicago and nyc I know I'll get at least 20 so I could care less for lte. Even with lte ur not constantly getting 40 or so mbps that's just the peak of ur speed
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

otariq said:
I finally hit 12mbps in toledo last night my old g2 was struggling for even 5 I thought the area just sucked but it's probably the better antennas in this s3. My wifi does 15 so im happy with this. When I go to bigger cities like Chicago and nyc I know I'll get at least 20 so I could care less for lte. Even with lte ur not constantly getting 40 or so mbps that's just the peak of ur speed
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
Correct. The G2 is only capable of 21mbps while the s3 is capable of 42mbps. I haven't been able to get over 15 in Chicago though on CM10
Sent from my SGH-T999

Intl galaxy note 2 or att galaxy note 2

Hey guys,
Looking for some opinions. I'm planning on jumping ship top the galaxy note 2. I live in the USA and I'm in an area with great LTE coverage. I'm either going to purchase the international or local variant.
I'm thinking of getting the international version because I assume development will be much greater and more accessories available.
If I wait and get the Att version I'll have access to the LTE network, but I fear there will be less development and accessories.
Any thoughts, what would you guys do?
Thanks,
Rob
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda premium

Great LTE speeds or great development. AT&T version will have the same specs as the international version. The rest is up to you to make a decision

im getting unlocked version i have a GS3 on ATT and HSAP+ is pretty good on ATT.. plus no crap ware from ATT unless you root which is the only to roll :highfive: more support on unlock.. plus HSAP+ will be more battery friendly :victory:

markysd said:
im getting unlocked version i have a GS3 on ATT and HSAP+ is pretty good on ATT.. plus no crap ware from ATT unless you root which is the only to roll :highfive: more support on unlock.. plus HSAP+ will be more battery friendly :victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My thoughts exacty. Received my N7100 on Monday. LTE is not available in my area anyway.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2

Pinkthesink said:
Hey guys,
Looking for some opinions. I'm planning on jumping ship top the galaxy note 2. I live in the USA and I'm in an area with great LTE coverage. I'm either going to purchase the international or local variant.
I'm thinking of getting the international version because I assume development will be much greater and more accessories available.
If I wait and get the Att version I'll have access to the LTE network, but I fear there will be less development and accessories.
Any thoughts, what would you guys do?
Thanks,
Rob
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i am in the same boat, picked up the NOTE 2 7100 and honestly after using the htc one x lte for 5 months on mobile network i really havent felt deprived unless im viewing a picture heavy site. my theory is i can sell my 7100 get the att one or buy the att one stuff my 7100 in the box (after switching stickers of course) and return it.

americasteam said:
My thoughts exacty. Received my N7100 on Monday. LTE is not available in my area anyway.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
must be loving it:victory: im close to pulling the trigger..the more i go on this site and watch youtube videos about the Note 2 the closer ill buy it..im really wanting a 32GB due to i dont know why we cant run apps from SD cards or burst shots saved ect and what else that only runs on internal memory..16GB now days gets eaten up quick specially when backed up roms .. the SD card reader on the NOTE supports them crazy fast reading from sandisk cards...
high end phones now days should be 32GB at the lowest phones are getting smarter/faster/higher camera MP ect and require more GB but i guess i can live with 16GB for apps only and like 3 roms backed up ect..i feel more safe with 32GB plus the note is design for content consumption i dont really talk on the phone:silly:
i miss my note 1 in a way but was just a test drive to see if i like it and i did. i dont really like 1st gen devices.

I'm agreeing with you guys about LTE, its fast but the hspa+ in this area is real good as well. Plus there's no telling what Att will do to the device, bootloader and all. I think I'll go the intl route for now. Any ideas on foreign suppliers right now, I've used clove on the UK for the original note and gs2 with great success.
Sent from my HTC One XL using xda premium

I prefer international version too but I'm having such a bad luck with data speed. I can barely go over 1mbps, if I'm lucky 2mbps at the most. I know my location has LTE coverage but doesn't seem hspa+ friendly. It's so frustrating, for that reason I might try att LTE version since specs are most identical.
As for accessories, I don't think there will be too much difference. Int & US S3 has just about same amount of accessories availability. I assume it will be same for Note 2.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

One thing I don't see a lot of people mentioning is the tethering capabilities of the international version.
That is the main reason why I went with the international version of the US version HTC One X, Galaxy S3 and now the Note 2 was for the built in tethering.
With the US version, as soon as I tried tethering a device to it, it requires me to add an appropriate more expensive data plan before I can connect.
With the international versions, I tether all day to them with my laptop, my other wifi devices ect. without incurring any extra charges or making any changes to my current data plan.
That my friend, is way worth it for me to go with the international version.

Once you got LTE, you never go back...thats me though. Same exact specs plus LTE? Also it should be out in a week or two? Id wait.

So people who have Note 2 in the US how are your data speeds are seeing a big difference in not having the LTE version? I live in a non LTE area does affect me?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium

jawain said:
So people who have Note 2 in the US how are your data speeds are seeing a big difference in not having the LTE version? I live in a non LTE area does affect me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Comparing my international note2 to my wife's galaxy S3 with AT&T's LTE service, she gets faster data speeds - at least 2x what I can get (and sometimes even 4-5x times what I can get.) (I get about 4 to 7 down while I've seen hers go as high as 25 down.) However, it's really not noticable for web browsing, email, etc. The only time I noticed any difference (outside of the speedtest benchmark app) was when downloading something from the google play store. Even that isn't an issue for me, as I usually don't download from the play store when I'm not home (and on wifi.)
Having the LTE device will result in heavier battery usage (even in a non-LTE area.) Until the devices start showing up, however, it's impossible to say what the difference will be. It might be an extremely power efficient LTE chip, or it might not be. The extra drain will be most noticable when the device is connected to the LTE network and data is transfering. Even when NOT using data or not connected to LTE, it will still drain extra power (as the extra LTE chip will be powered and will occassionally search for an LTE connection.)
Take care
Gary

garyd9 said:
Comparing my international note2 to my wife's galaxy S3 with AT&T's LTE service, she gets faster data speeds - at least 2x what I can get (and sometimes even 4-5x times what I can get.) (I get about 4 to 7 down while I've seen hers go as high as 25 down.) However, it's really not noticable for web browsing, email, etc. The only time I noticed any difference (outside of the speedtest benchmark app) was when downloading something from the google play store. Even that isn't an issue for me, as I usually don't download from the play store when I'm not home (and on wifi.)
Having the LTE device will result in heavier battery usage (even in a non-LTE area.) Until the devices start showing up, however, it's impossible to say what the difference will be. It might be an extremely power efficient LTE chip, or it might not be. The extra drain will be most noticable when the device is connected to the LTE network and data is transfering. Even when NOT using data or not connected to LTE, it will still drain extra power (as the extra LTE chip will be powered and will occassionally search for an LTE connection.)
Take care
Gary
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for that information so despite the the data speeds are you satisfied with the Int Note 2 or do you think you will switching to the US version?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium

I have never owned an LTE phone and seem to do just fine on HSPA+. My Note 2 will here Monday (from Newegg) and I'll just use it as I do every other HSPA+ phone. If it meets my needs (streaming netflix/radio/tethering) I'll just keep it. If the AT&T version is super power efficient and screams on LTE without sucking (bloatware, locked down, etc) I'll just sell my mint international Note 2 and move on with my life and get the AT&T version.
Win-win.

jawain said:
Thank you for that information so despite the the data speeds are you satisfied with the Int Note 2 or do you think you will switching to the US version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most likely, I'll keep the international version. I expect AT&T to sell their LTE version for 750 off contract (75 more than I paid for the international), it'll be bloated (as every AT&T device is), locked to AT&T frequencies and SIMs, and I don't think it'll be as well supported by the open community as the n7100.
Finally, I think it'll be at least one more generation of chips before LTE is power efficient enough for me. I simply don't do anything with my phone that really takes advantage of the LTE speeds - so the extra battery drain from the LTE support isn't worth it for me.
If I used my phone for tethering, on the other hand, I probably wouldn't even consider the non-LTE handsets anymore (and would keep a spare battery or two.)
Take care
Gary

Any idea what size sim card will be used for the AT&T version? Should be regular size right? That is my only concern because I don't want to have to cut my regular sized sim card if I were to get the international version. Unless AT&T will use micro sim too... if that's the case then I could just buy the international version now since I'll be cutting my sim card either way.. and I don't really need LTE and AT&T's bloatware.

maykatok said:
Any idea what size sim card will be used for the AT&T version? Should be regular size right? That is my only concern because I don't want to have to cut my regular sized sim card if I were to get the international version. Unless AT&T will use micro sim too... if that's the case then I could just buy the international version now since I'll be cutting my sim card either way.. and I don't really need LTE and AT&T's bloatware.
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Click to collapse
microSIM. Pretty much all new phones these days are micro. It's the new standard.

What carriers are you guys using to tether?
Just curious because i was considering straight talk but its against their ToS to tether.

just something i found on youtube!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oz6frJcsAh0
LTE version of note 2 bench marked lower then the N7100

turilo said:
just something i found on youtube!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oz6frJcsAh0
LTE version of note 2 bench marked lower then the N7100
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol totally disregard my last post lte note 2 is the same in benchmark tests
Sent from my SGH-I317M using Tapatalk 2

LTE version vs 3G version, what's the difference?

Hi all,
I know Samsung are making a 3g version of the note 2, and they will also release a 4G lte version. The isn't any good 4G networks where I live right now, but i was thinking if future proofing my phone, and I also might be moving back to England soon. my questions are this:
If I buy a 4G model (n7105 I think), will I be able to flash the international version roms?, I know I might not get the 4G network if I do that, but would I still get the 3g networks if i flashed a different modem?.
If I get the 4G version, I would get worse battery life cos of the need for a extra modem to be running, but will I be able to disable 4G in settings (like I can disable 3g on my s2)..?
And if I can disable 4g, then would I still get the same battery life as on a 3g version of the phone?.
Thanks in advance for any help.
Cheers Corey
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2

I'm using N7105 on a non-LTE provider and still works as a charm without battery issues. 50% on day 1 with playing around lasted me half day.
Sent from my GT-N7105 using Tapatalk 2

fishingfon said:
Hi all,
I know Samsung are making a 3g version of the note 2, and they will also release a 4G lte version. The isn't any good 4G networks where I live right now, but i was thinking if future proofing my phone, and I also might be moving back to England soon. my questions are this:
If I buy a 4G model (n7105 I think), will I be able to flash the international version roms?, I know I might not get the 4G network if I do that, but would I still get the 3g networks if i flashed a different modem?.
If I get the 4G version, I would get worse battery life cos of the need for a extra modem to be running, but will I be able to disable 4G in settings (like I can disable 3g on my s2)..?
And if I can disable 4g, then would I still get the same battery life as on a 3g version of the phone?.
Thanks in advance for any help.
Cheers Corey
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes you are able to disable the LTE network, and choose the GSM/WCDMA instead.
But without disabling it, the network will auto choose the available network. If you current telco doesn't provide any LTE connection, the phone will auto change to 3G.
Like here the telco I'm using, even provides the 4G connection, but, in facts, it is not yet island-wide. So, when I reach my home, it turns directly to 3G. Battery wise, as I notice, is the same. Not much different when you are in 4G or in 3G. But yes, speed is different when you are in 4G.
The only lack of this 4G (N7105), .....
we still don't have specific forum for N7105 (dunno why we don't have... LOL) nor custom ROM. So, I just have to bear with the stock ROM rooted. :fingers-crossed:
Sent from the corner of this rounded earth.

Future proof?
Well depends on how long you are intending to keep it. These days people change phone very frequently and LTE is no loss for most general usage of data use.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2

There is already a 3G and LTE version out in Australian market with a price difference of $200+ with the latter being more expensive.
If you are moving back to England very soon (1 or 2 months), do check out the price and review of the LTE plans and services with the various mobile providers before deciding which version to purchase. Have read online that LTE charges in Europe is a killer and data speed of LTE will be greatly affected by the amount of users at the same time, within the same WAN.
As for future-proofing your phone, it will depends on how long you are using it since nowadays, majority of the ppl does not use the same phone for more than 2 years, which is directly affected by the various 'annual contract plans' which the providers has to offer.
Flashing the International version Rom to my N7105 was not very successful as I lost WIFI/Data/Mobile receiption and I have since unrooted my device..
Waiting for the official Home for N7105 as well.. :fingers-crossed:

[Q] LTE or Not LTE

Hello,
I am considering buying a second Galaxy Note 2 just in case I lose or drop the 1st one.
My 1st one is N7100, and I am wondering if I should go for N7100 or N7105 for the 2nd one.
I have one question. Does N7105 work on a non LTE contract without any inconvenience? (Like battery life?)
I have SFR Red 3GO. So, I have no LTE now, but maybe I may take LTE in the future. So, if there is no inconvenience, I would go for N7105.
Is it possible to turn off LTE? How does this work?

The battery on the LTE version is worse, regardless of if you're using 4G or have LTE turned off.
If you have enough money to buy a second phone incase you lose or drop your first, then I'd suggest waiting for the Note 3.
Sent from my Galaxy Note II LTE using Tapatalk

If you flash a lot of ROMs and stuff and you want better battery life go for the NON LTE version, otherwise pick yourself up a LTE Version.

The non-LTE version should, in theory, have better battery life, even if your not using LTE.
Its radios are integrated onto the exynos SoC which allows for better power management while the LTE model doesn't.
Dunno how much this affects in practice though.
Sent from my GT-N7100

Furthermore the N7100 version, there is more custom Rom for it you flash!

Thank you for all of you!!
So, what I heard about the battery life is true!!
I will probably go for N7100.
PS: I am not so keen on waiting and going for Note 3, as Note 2 is sufficiently fast. I have also read that Galaxy S4 has a bad battery life. So, maybe Note 3 will be the same.

3to4 said:
Thank you for all of you!!
So, what I heard about the battery life is true!!
I will probably go for N7100.
PS: I am not so keen on waiting and going for Note 3, as Note 2 is sufficiently fast. I have also read that Galaxy S4 has a bad battery life. So, maybe Note 3 will be the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why don't you wait until you lose or break your current phone until you get a new one.
Similarily, I would recommend getting the LTE version as you already have the 3G version.
Sent from my Galaxy Note II LTE using Tapatalk

if your networ allow LTE connection - then ofcoure LTE version of note2
if you need more battery then you can swich to 3g only
or if you need even more power - try to extended battery mugen/zerolemon
in my country I have on poor signal 20Mb download / 5Mb upload
on 3-4 stick coverage - 30-40Mb download / 40Mb upload !
so on 3g you will never get so much speed
only one dissapoinment - not much custom ROMS avialible

fade2black101 said:
Why don't you wait until you lose or break your current phone until you get a new one.
Similarily, I would recommend getting the LTE version as you already have the 3G version.
Sent from my Galaxy Note II LTE using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your advice.
It may sound stupid, but I always feel like buying at least two when I find something I like. And, as it takes some time to buy another phone and set it up to my liking, I would prefer buying another one before I have a problem with the 1st one..
I finally think I will go for N7105.

nowy57 said:
if your networ allow LTE connection - then ofcoure LTE version of note2
if you need more battery then you can swich to 3g only
or if you need even more power - try to extended battery mugen/zerolemon
in my country I have on poor signal 20Mb download / 5Mb upload
on 3-4 stick coverage - 30-40Mb download / 40Mb upload !
so on 3g you will never get so much speed
only one dissapoinment - not much custom ROMS avialible
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. Having a lot of custom roms to choose from is an important factor for me, too. That's one of the reasons why I have been hesitating, but I think I will go for N7105.