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Hey All,
I need some help making up my mind. I'd love to hear your input.
I moved to China in August. I had a Galaxy Nexus at the time. A bottle of vodka ended the life of that phone prematurely. I need to buy a phone to replace it.
I would prefer to buy a N4, but I don't have any friends or family coming to see me until the end of January, and I'm a little nervous about shipping a new electronic device into China.
I was checking out my options today, and it seems my best choice will come from the following: GNex, S3, Note 2, Meizu MX, or Oppo Finder.
If money were no object, and you were choosing one from that pool of devices, which would you go with? I'm having a hard time weighing the pros and cons of these different devices. And, as much as I enjoyed my GNex, I'm a little hesitant paying new-phone price for a phone that has some pretty old specs. Feel free to tell me I shouldn't feel this way. I might just need to hear it.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
ejchis said:
Hey All,
I need some help making up my mind. I'd love to hear your input.
I moved to China in August. I had a Galaxy Nexus at the time. A bottle of vodka ended the life of that phone prematurely. I need to buy a phone to replace it.
I would prefer to buy a N4, but I don't have any friends or family coming to see me until the end of January, and I'm a little nervous about shipping a new electronic device into China.
I was checking out my options today, and it seems my best choice will come from the following: GNex, S3, Note 2, Meizu MX, or Oppo Finder.
If money were no object, and you were choosing one from that pool of devices, which would you go with? I'm having a hard time weighing the pros and cons of these different devices. And, as much as I enjoyed my GNex, I'm a little hesitant paying new-phone price for a phone that has some pretty old specs. Feel free to tell me I shouldn't feel this way. I might just need to hear it.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends what forum you post on. Since you are on the nex forum, that will be the one that gets voted. Move over to the s3 forum and guess what they will tell you to get?
Always the same back and forth arguing. I would just try them out if you can in the store and see which you like best. Personally I like the nex because I hate UI overlays put on top of google (sense/tw)
I thought I might get a more honest response out of this crowd, because we are mostly people who have seen other devices released since we bought this phone. I imagine a lot of people here are waiting to upgrade and have been eyeing other devices the last couple of months.
I also really prefer stock Android and the whole Nexus experience. But I also really like new and shiny.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Right now, I have an Xperia X8. I've had this phone for over a year, and it's my first smartphone ever. During this year, I've flashed a lot so I know the basics around that stuff. And that's why I fell in love with Nexus phones. No possibilities of bricking your phone with just simply unlocking your bootloader (which I've done with my X8 once) and stuff like that.
Problem is, I currently live in Macedonia. Here, the new GNex costs 300 euros with a one year warranty. There's still no Nexus 4 here, but my friend's dad is in the US right now, and he may be able to buy one for me, but he'll be back here in about 2 months. And I can get the GNex in less than a week here. I already have the money as well. If he buys the Nexus 4 for me from the US, it'll cost about 300-320 euros. So the price is pretty much the same.
Now here's the problem: I don't know if I should wait for the Nexus 4, or just buy the GNex. I've been really impatient about buying a new phone. My brother bought a GNex a couple of weeks ago, and it's really good, especially for my standards.
The Nexus 4 is basically a performance upgrade, but mostly in heavy gaming. And I'm not really a heavy gamer. I only play small games like Temple Run and stuff like that, and not so frequently. And those run very smoothly in my brother's GNex. Even NFS:MW runs smoothly, and it's a heavy game.
What I don't like about the N4 though, is the fact that it's completely made of glass and there's a big chance I can break it. Plus, if I buy it from the US, the charger won't be compatible here. And I'm afraid that if I use some other one, it may not be good for the phone's battery. But that's just a theory of mine, not sure if it's actually true. And I've read that many people have had to exchange their original shipments because of some hardware factory bugs. And there's no possible way I can exchange mine.
Your input would be greatly appreciated. I really have no idea what to do. I'm leaning more towards the GNex though.
TLDR: Have to wait 2 months for Nexus 4, and less than a week for a new GNex. Same price here. Which one should I buy?
I also created this thread in the Nexus 4 Q&A section, but I want to hear your opinion as well. If this is against the forum rules, please feel free to remove it.
get rhe Gnex if you dont mind changing phone in around 1.5 years later .. if i were you i would get the N4 as it would last me at least 2 ears with google updates and around +1 more year from xda dev updates ~ hoped i helped ><
-Jesco- said:
get rhe Gnex if you dont mind changing phone in around 1.5 years later .. if i were you i would get the N4 as it would last me at least 2 ears with google updates and around +1 more year from xda dev updates ~ hoped i helped ><
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Click to collapse
I'm sure I'll be able to change my phone 1.5 years later. And I'm pretty sure Google will keep updating the GNex as it's definitely a phone that can handle newer android versions. If not, like you said, XDA dev updates will help me out. But I'm really afraid of getting the N4 because of the great distance between Macedonia and the USA. What if it came with some manufacturer bugs? I'd die then. Like I said, the fake cheap charger I'd get here might make the battery worse, and the phone itself can be broken really easily :crying:
the gnex is great but you are saying that the price is same for both so i would say get the n4...
I love my g'nex, but I'd say n4. Is always a good idea to get the newest most powerful when your buying a new electronic, especially for the same price. As for hardware defects, the g'nex had all kind of hardware defect reports when it came out also. You have to keep in mind the users with problems are the ones complaining, if you don't have problems you don't say anything making defects look worse than they are.
Of course if you simply want an update now instead of in 2 months the g'nex is still an awesome device.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
Okay guys, thanks a lot for your replies. I guess I'm gonna have to talk to my dad's friend about the N4.
I currently own the GN, but tomorrow by N4 should be arriving... so probably tomorrow I would be able to give you a better comparison. I would definitely wait the extra couple of months and get the N4... it's a year newer and has way better specs. My GN doesn't feel as snappy with 4.2 as it did with 4.1.2 (unless it's all in my head). I think 4.2 is a tiny bit more bloated... and that is probably the reason why they dropped the support for Nexus S.
As for charger compatibility... don't all android phones use microUSB chargers now? I use my HTC Desire and GN chargers on my my GN interchangably... and sometimes borrow chargers from Blackberry users at work. To be sure, you could check the specs on the charger to make sure they match (they're usually written on the plug).
I do love my GNex, its a really good phone and im sure that i will stay with it for more time. I think N4 doesnt justify an update, if you already have a GNex, but since its not your case I would recommend the N4 for very simple reasons... GNex still a top device and for sure it can handle the job for quite some time, but N4 is newer and has better specs. Unless the price difference between them is enormous, like it is here in Brazil.
Hope it helped, cheers.
I am going to buy LG G4. I have heard a lot about hardware failure of this phone. So, what is your opinion on this? Need your guidance,please.
Regards
My opinion would be to buy a G3 or Moto X Pure, if you're looking for something on the cheaper end. G4 is a mess.
If extra cash isn't an issue I'd say wait and check out the HTC 10 tomorrow. The Huawei Mate 8 looks sweet, too, if you can find one.
A lot of boot loop issues with early production models. It may not be the case with later production models, but these boot loop issues take 5-8 months to show. If you are buying brand new, make sure you have at least a 12 month warranty.
Sent from my LG-E980 using XDA Free mobile app
i would like to read on this matter of bootloops. so far i heard all 505xxxxx have bootloop.. and i will like to read more on this.. can anyone give me link to discussion of this matter.?
Guys, friend of mines has LG G4 but it's volume down when it's pressed it doesn't work, it gives him a recent apps instead. How he fix it ??
Sent from my ZTE Grand S II LTE using XDA-Developers mobile app
raptorddd said:
i would like to read on this matter of bootloops. so far i heard all 505xxxxx have bootloop.. and i will like to read more on this.. can anyone give me link to discussion of this matter.?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/g4/help/lg-g4-stuck-bootloop-t3268734
Bootloop has been reported as far as 603.
510's for model US991 seem good. We have it, and haven't had ANY of the reported issues (bootloop nor others).
Sent from my Moto MAXX using XDA-Developers mobile app
I will buy Pure Now. As, I am buying from outside my country and I dont want to take any risk.
Thank You everyone for your kind and prompt replies.
Sammae7 said:
My opinion would be to buy a G3 or Moto X Pure, if you're looking for something on the cheaper end. G4 is a mess.
If extra cash isn't an issue I'd say wait and check out the HTC 10 tomorrow. The Huawei Mate 8 looks sweet, too, if you can find one.
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What is your opinion on HTC One M9? Should I consider it?
DawarAzhar said:
What is your opinion on HTC One M9? Should I consider it?
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Click to collapse
I had am M9 for less than a week. It's a beautiful phone that functioned fine but it got hot fast. I had GPS on for maybe five minutes and the phone got hot enough for me to feel it on my leg through my jeans. Very warm. If you can handle that, it's a nice phone.
Sammae7 said:
My opinion would be to buy a G3 or Moto X Pure, if you're looking for something on the cheaper end. G4 is a mess.
If extra cash isn't an issue I'd say wait and check out the HTC 10 tomorrow. The Huawei Mate 8 looks sweet, too, if you can find one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sammae7 said:
I had am M9 for less than a week. It's a beautiful phone that functioned fine but it got hot fast. I had GPS on for maybe five minutes and the phone got hot enough for me to feel it on my leg through my jeans. Very warm. If you can handle that, it's a nice phone.
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Click to collapse
What about OP2?
I've never owned a of the OP devices, only because I could never get ahold of them.
Currently, I'm super excited about the HTC 10. It is sounding amazing. Can't wait for a few reviews.
DawarAzhar said:
I am going to buy LG G4. I have heard a lot about hardware failure of this phone. So, what is your opinion on this? Need your guidance,please.
Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I may throw my hat in the ring, I have a G4 and am quite dissatisfied. I am getting a Nexus for my next phone and I suggest you take a good look at them as well.
G4 is a beautiful device it does as commands and is loyal. I bought mine recently and it looks elegant with brown leather. Yes it had hardware failure with 505 and i did get mine keeping that in mind. I own a 512 EU H model. Rooted. Works as a charm. Still optimus has its moments but
Thank god it isnt touchwiz. The camera is jewel and it paints magnificently on the patriot class 10 64gb i reserved for it. Other than that its your call.
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk
Another vote for the nexus 6p from me. A big amoled screen with front facing speaker running the latest android is a perfect combination. It may be expensive outside the US but if u already consider the m9, the 6p won't be much of a stretch in term of budget. No sdcard and removable battery are nexus' only downsides
Quickdraw996 said:
If I may throw my hat in the ring, I have a G4 and am quite dissatisfied. I am getting a Nexus for my next phone and I suggest you take a good look at them as well.
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Any specific reason that you're dissatisfied with the G4?
Nexus are certainly nice phones though
Good Son 5 said:
Any specific reason that you're dissatisfied with the G4?
Nexus are certainly nice phones though
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Click to collapse
I was excited because I finally got a phone that wasn't trash and was expecting to get the ROMs and Kernels etc. that a flagship usually has and was lucky enough to get with lesser phones like the original LG Volt. I was quickly screwed by LG. A spectacular phone ruined by hardware problems and a locked bootloader. I won't have these problems with a Nexus, plus the price is better and it has support for GSM and CDMA networks. I can go to and from any carrier I choose while not having to wait 9 months for them to push OTAs or load my phone with trash. It is for all intents and purposes, my dream phone. The only thing missing is external storage, which may change with the next one. If you don't care about root and what not, buy a Samsung. The hardware and software are superb, unless you don't like TouchWiz of course. I don't mind OEM skins, so it doesn't bother me but some hate it. If you don't want a sammy, I would also recommend HTC flagships, they are praised by everyone I know who owns one.
---------- Post added at 01:51 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:48 AM ----------
I guess it can be summed up as having too high of expectations.
Quickdraw996 said:
I was excited because I finally got a phone that wasn't trash and was expecting to get the ROMs and Kernels etc. that a flagship usually has and was lucky enough to get with lesser phones like the original LG Volt. I was quickly screwed by LG. A spectacular phone ruined by hardware problems and a locked bootloader. I won't have these problems with a Nexus, plus the price is better and it has support for GSM and CDMA networks. I can go to and from any carrier I choose while not having to wait 9 months for them to push OTAs or load my phone with trash. It is for all intents and purposes, my dream phone. The only thing missing is external storage, which may change with the next one. If you don't care about root and what not, buy a Samsung. The hardware and software are superb, unless you don't like TouchWiz of course. I don't mind OEM skins, so it doesn't bother me but some hate it. If you don't want a sammy, I would also recommend HTC flagships, they are praised by everyone I know who owns one.
---------- Post added at 01:51 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:48 AM ----------
I guess it can be summed up as having too high of expectations.
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Click to collapse
Expectations can really be everything. If having complete control over the phone is the top priority, getting a Nexus is the obvious solution. Especially if you want other features like GSM/CDMA compatibility. And the quick updates are great of course.
I suppose I have the benefit of lower expectations - well, mainly in regards to the lack of an unlocked bootloader and the potential for bootloop issues (or the need for a warranty). For me, expandable storage is a must. As is having a great camera (and all the phones mentioned seemingly do). I also like the replaceable battery - as it has the potential to add long-term life to the phone. OEM skins aren't the worst thing, though TouchWiz isn't my favorite. Obviously, I would love complete control of the phone, or at least the ability to completely remove and bloatware I don't want, but most of the time I am happy enough using a launcher like Nova.
The Nexus is a little big for me as well. I'm coming from a 5" screen, so even the 5.5" on the G4 is a little big - and likely would be too big if not for the relatively small size of the phone otherwise. When I was at Best Buy recently, the S7 was definitely the best device to hold in my hand. Looks great, works great, but cost too much for me right now. Also, while this may not be a factor for everyone, the Gear VR did not meet my expectations - and certainly gave me concerns about impact on my eyes and/or brain, as well as doubtful how long the battery would last using it
In the end, ordering a G4 (with a US warranty) + case, screen protector and tax was less than $350. Sure, I won't be able to root it (at least right now), and I will always be cautious about the bootloop occurring, but that seems like a great deal for less than half the price of the S7, and $200+ less than a Nexus.
Good Son 5 said:
Expectations can really be everything. If having complete control over the phone is the top priority, getting a Nexus is the obvious solution. Especially if you want other features like GSM/CDMA compatibility. And the quick updates are great of course.
I suppose I have the benefit of lower expectations - well, mainly in regards to the lack of an unlocked bootloader and the potential for bootloop issues (or the need for a warranty). For me, expandable storage is a must. As is having a great camera (and all the phones mentioned seemingly do). I also like the replaceable battery - as it has the potential to add long-term life to the phone. OEM skins aren't the worst thing, though TouchWiz isn't my favorite. Obviously, I would love complete control of the phone, or at least the ability to completely remove and bloatware I don't want, but most of the time I am happy enough using a launcher like Nova.
The Nexus is a little big for me as well. I'm coming from a 5" screen, so even the 5.5" on the G4 is a little big - and likely would be too big if not for the relatively small size of the phone otherwise. When I was at Best Buy recently, the S7 was definitely the best device to hold in my hand. Looks great, works great, but cost too much for me right now. Also, while this may not be a factor for everyone, the Gear VR did not meet my expectations - and certainly gave me concerns about impact on my eyes and/or brain, as well as doubtful how long the battery would last using it
In the end, ordering a G4 (with a US warranty) + case, screen protector and tax was less than $350. Sure, I won't be able to root it (at least right now), and I will always be cautious about the bootloop occurring, but that seems like a great deal for less than half the price of the S7, and $200+ less than a Nexus.
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Click to collapse
Good luck. I hope you like it.
How do you feel about Samsung's mass recall of the note 7?
Obviously peiple could be angry, but this event raises the question of device safty.
This doesnt happen all that often and im interested in your opinion.
My personal opinion is that Samsung failed miserably here.
From the high price, one would expect competence and qualify control. Nope.
From the high price, one would expect better facilities to make these things. Nope
Smartphones are incredibly overpriced.
OEMs dont offer QC.
They dont offer a valuable long lasting product.
Only 18 months of sofware support.
One year of warranty.
Non removable batteries. This recalll eouldnt even be a thing if this phone had removable batteries. Or aka planned obsolescence.
This isnt a problem with just samsung however, but they made an excellent poimt about what i raised here.
I am extremely disappointed by this situation.
Id nothing else, people should be angry at samsung for wasting their time with the note 7.
Disappointed. But not angry at Samsung about what happened to the Galaxy Note 7.
I applaud them for creating such an exciting device. Such a massive recall wouldn't have happened if they didn't create an outstanding smartphone.
If the battery fires befell on another brand's smartphone, let's say HTC 10, I don't think they would handle it as well as Samsung did.
Okay, back to Samsung. Clearly, they I overlooked something. If SDI and the replacement units with ATL batteries are catching fire, then something else is triggering it.
I strongly suspect the dual curve design is the main culprit setting the battery on fire. But that's me speculating. I sincerely hope Samsung will be able to find the root of this problem and be transparent about it to everyone. And what measures they will take to prevent such disaster from happening again.
I'm seeking a full refund from them instead of exchanging for an S7 Edge. I'll be getting the LG V20 next month. But I'll be keeping a close eye on Samsung. And also keeping an open mind about their S8 and Note 8.
I think Samsung did the right thing during the first recall.
I think the second recall was done more because of pressure from the media, than that it would've been done if there was no recall presiding there issues. They needed to protect their brand at large, and considering the Note is only a small part of everything they sell, it was likely better to take this loss rather than placing the trustworthiness of their brand at risk.
All in all I'm not happy with it, but it is what it is, I don't blame them either way.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N930A using Tapatalk
If it's anything, I think the replacement unit with the supposedly "safe" ATL batteries are more prone to combusting than the original.
Btw, I'd like to add that I'm not dismissing that there may still be an issue with the phone, it's just that I have my doubts that the 2nd recall would've happened without the media playing it's part.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N930A using Tapatalk
this was all media`s fault, some years ago there would no be a fuss so great as this, this is to be expected in the future with other brands as well
Simple question. I asked the same question on another phone I'm interested in, got some good response, am asking it here.
I need a new phone, battery is getting hinky on my HTC One M8 plus the camera is ca-ca and I need a better camera for my job because I have to use the phone's camera quite often.
Out of principle, I simply don't want to spend more than $350 or so for a phone. I toyed with the idea of going over to the dark side with an iPhone, but I'm not going to spend that much money for a phone, I've got other things I need/want to spend money on instead of phones that cost more than some cars I've driven in my life. I'm also too invested in Google's ecosystem and I just prefer Android.
I also need to be on VZW's network. Have toyed with going GSM, I need to stay with Big Red.
Phones within my price range that I'm interested in are an HTC 10 (my last two phones have been HTCs and I've liked them), a Moto X Pure (that's the other phone I asked this question about), a Samsung S7 (all that glass scares me to death, I'm a klutz and the brick-like cases my phones reside in bear that out), Moto G4 Plus or the new Moto G5 Plus (which is having all kinds of issues on the VZW network unless you disable HD calling) — and this one, which really really intrigues me.
I know it's three years old, but I see that there's still a vibrant community supporting it, I've seen people online call it "the best phone Samsung ever made and probably ever will make," and the specs are still righteous compared to newer and flashier phones.
I don't care about new and flashy, my phone is a tool, period, and I need it to work for me.
The Note 4 also apparently is rootable ... I've never owned a non-rooted phone, have never rooted one myself although I've flashed ROMs. (I've got a line on a mint used one running Noble Rom; can anyone tell me about stability of that?)
So after this long-winded drivel, I repeat the question ... this phone still worth buying in 2017?
Depends what you're looking for I guess. If you're looking for a decent phone for around $200, it's decent. Beware the emmc failure error though, these things seem to choke themselves out at either exactly one year or exactly two years after purchase. Not all of them but a large enough percentage that its worth mentioning.
Edit:Also this is anecdotal but I suspect that refurbished note 4s don't have real gorilla glass. I dropped my note 4 easily hundreds of times from around 3 feet, sometimes with some force, with only the s view cover fit a case. The screen never had problems until insurance replaced mine due to failing emmc, then it cracked on the first drop after that.
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 07:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:19 PM ----------
Also, if you get it I would use one of the newer note rom TouchWiz ports
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
prw94 said:
Simple question. I asked the same question on another phone I'm interested in, got some good response, am asking it here.
I need a new phone, battery is getting hinky on my HTC One M8 plus the camera is ca-ca and I need a better camera for my job because I have to use the phone's camera quite often.
Out of principle, I simply don't want to spend more than $350 or so for a phone. I toyed with the idea of going over to the dark side with an iPhone, but I'm not going to spend that much money for a phone, I've got other things I need/want to spend money on instead of phones that cost more than some cars I've driven in my life. I'm also too invested in Google's ecosystem and I just prefer Android.
I also need to be on VZW's network. Have toyed with going GSM, I need to stay with Big Red.
Phones within my price range that I'm interested in are an HTC 10 (my last two phones have been HTCs and I've liked them), a Moto X Pure (that's the other phone I asked this question about), a Samsung S7 (all that glass scares me to death, I'm a klutz and the brick-like cases my phones reside in bear that out), Moto G4 Plus or the new Moto G5 Plus (which is having all kinds of issues on the VZW network unless you disable HD calling) — and this one, which really really intrigues me.
I know it's three years old, but I see that there's still a vibrant community supporting it, I've seen people online call it "the best phone Samsung ever made and probably ever will make," and the specs are still righteous compared to newer and flashier phones.
I don't care about new and flashy, my phone is a tool, period, and I need it to work for me.
The Note 4 also apparently is rootable ... I've never owned a non-rooted phone, have never rooted one myself although I've flashed ROMs. (I've got a line on a mint used one running Noble Rom; can anyone tell me about stability of that?)
So after this long-winded drivel, I repeat the question ... this phone still worth buying in 2017?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note 4 is very rootable including the V variant many active devs for it. Sprint model here and was an amazon purchase. Been rock solid. Many of the others you mentioned are nice as well. Good luck!
Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk
Modtronix said:
Note 4 is very rootable including the V variant many active devs for it. Sprint model here and was an amazon purchase. Been rock solid. Many of the others you mentioned are nice as well. Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it is as well . great device lotta development and now I saw they go for $149 new . Will it hang with the Note 8.....no of course it won't it is almost 5 yrs old now but it at 149 unlocked its less than 1/8 th the projected price of the note 8 .
There are lots of reasons to love the Note 4. Replaceable battery, holds up to 256GB micro SD, IR support, big bright screen, rootable with Magisk support, great ROMs from anything from nearly stock to basic 7.11 versions. If you like to use your spen, get a Touchwiz ROM.
I bought my first one on the day of release. Since then, I've bought nine more over the years for friends and family. All (except one) has been rooted and are running newer ROMs. The holdout is my daughter who thinks rooting is bad. Kids, you can't teach them anything ... ugh! However, they are difficult (shall I say tricky) to root, it's well worth it. I bought the N7 when it was released. Had it two weeks. Hated the 'edge' because I would pull that out accidentally, or couldn't close with the X because my finger was right on the edge. I was sorta glad to return it. Needless to say, I bought a refurbished N4 on Amazon and several more since then. My neighbors wanted new phones, but didn't want to pay $600+ for them. I talked them into the N4 and set them up. They love them, but don't use half of the features. Newer phones are slimmer, not as wide, but that never bothered me. The only reason I would want a newer model would be for more RAM, however I like having the extra cash in my pocket, so I'm perfectly happy and will continue with the N4 series as long as I can.
Note 4 well worth the money!
I definitely recommend the note 4 it is an amazing phone best phone i have ever had! You will be very happy if you do decide to purchase im rooted and using twrp and custom rom! I also read a article talking about how people have decided to stick with the note 4 instead of upgrading to note 5 or 7 this is because the note 4 was way ahead of its time because of the harware that is used in it. The phone has a very good processor i highly recommend this phone!
i bought an LGV20 this week, thats going to be sold, and the note 4 will continue to be my daily driver...at least until the note 8 comes out
This phone is spectacular. I have 2. Never any problems at all outside of my own rooting quandaries. Only complaint is front facing cam. I'm not into selfies but if I get decent haircut and I want to remember it or just notate something stupid like my teeth for my own personal use, the front facing cam sucks.
prw94 said:
Simple question. I asked the same question on another phone I'm interested in, got some good response, am asking it here.
I need a new phone, battery is getting hinky on my HTC One M8 plus the camera is ca-ca and I need a better camera for my job because I have to use the phone's camera quite often.
Out of principle, I simply don't want to spend more than $350 or so for a phone. I toyed with the idea of going over to the dark side with an iPhone, but I'm not going to spend that much money for a phone, I've got other things I need/want to spend money on instead of phones that cost more than some cars I've driven in my life. I'm also too invested in Google's ecosystem and I just prefer Android.
I also need to be on VZW's network. Have toyed with going GSM, I need to stay with Big Red.
Phones within my price range that I'm interested in are an HTC 10 (my last two phones have been HTCs and I've liked them), a Moto X Pure (that's the other phone I asked this question about), a Samsung S7 (all that glass scares me to death, I'm a klutz and the brick-like cases my phones reside in bear that out), Moto G4 Plus or the new Moto G5 Plus (which is having all kinds of issues on the VZW network unless you disable HD calling) — and this one, which really really intrigues me.
I know it's three years old, but I see that there's still a vibrant community supporting it, I've seen people online call it "the best phone Samsung ever made and probably ever will make," and the specs are still righteous compared to newer and flashier phones.
I don't care about new and flashy, my phone is a tool, period, and I need it to work for me.
The Note 4 also apparently is rootable ... I've never owned a non-rooted phone, have never rooted one myself although I've flashed ROMs. (I've got a line on a mint used one running Noble Rom; can anyone tell me about stability of that?)
So after this long-winded drivel, I repeat the question ... this phone still worth buying in 2017?
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Honestly, the Note 4 is a fine phone, but I wouldn't spend any money on it at this point. This point was a 2014 flagship. I'd spend that money towards a more recent model. You'll really appreciate the newer Snapdragon 820/821/835 over an antiquated 805, which is a quad-core Cortex-A15. It's a fine phone, but your money will take you much further. If you do choose to buy this device regardless, I wouldn't spend more than $150.
prw94 said:
Simple question. I asked the same question on another phone I'm interested in, got some good response, am asking it here.
I need a new phone, battery is getting hinky on my HTC One M8 plus the camera is ca-ca and I need a better camera for my job because I have to use the phone's camera quite often.
Out of principle, I simply don't want to spend more than $350 or so for a phone. I toyed with the idea of going over to the dark side with an iPhone, but I'm not going to spend that much money for a phone, I've got other things I need/want to spend money on instead of phones that cost more than some cars I've driven in my life. I'm also too invested in Google's ecosystem and I just prefer Android.
I also need to be on VZW's network. Have toyed with going GSM, I need to stay with Big Red.
Phones within my price range that I'm interested in are an HTC 10 (my last two phones have been HTCs and I've liked them), a Moto X Pure (that's the other phone I asked this question about), a Samsung S7 (all that glass scares me to death, I'm a klutz and the brick-like cases my phones reside in bear that out), Moto G4 Plus or the new Moto G5 Plus (which is having all kinds of issues on the VZW network unless you disable HD calling) — and this one, which really really intrigues me.
I know it's three years old, but I see that there's still a vibrant community supporting it, I've seen people online call it "the best phone Samsung ever made and probably ever will make," and the specs are still righteous compared to newer and flashier phones.
I don't care about new and flashy, my phone is a tool, period, and I need it to work for me.
The Note 4 also apparently is rootable ... I've never owned a non-rooted phone, have never rooted one myself although I've flashed ROMs. (I've got a line on a mint used one running Noble Rom; can anyone tell me about stability of that?)
So after this long-winded drivel, I repeat the question ... this phone still worth buying in 2017?
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I got my Verizon Note 4 about 2.5 years ago and I still like it a lot. I did have the failing motherboard problem, but Samsung fixed it completely for only $70. It's working great now and I'm hoping to keep using the phone for at least another two years.
So, yes, I would certainly consider buying another Note 4 today. The only caution I would take is to make sure I bought a brand new one. Otherwise you are likely going to be buying someone else's phone with a failing, or soon to be failing, motherboard. Perhaps a phone that has been refurbished by a very reputable company could be acceptable (e.g., from Samsung, or Verizon), but I would want to make sure it has a very good warranty (preferably much longer than 90 days). I definitely would not buy a used phone that is being sold as-is (even if the buyer claims it works fine).
I have seen new Note 4 phones advertised on Amazon for about $300. Refurbished phones seem to be going for about $200 (but I think the extra $100 is well worth the cost for a new phone).
I've never rooted my Note 4. It sounds like versions from some carriers are easier to root than others. If you are on Verizon it sounds like it may be rootable, but it is more difficult. I would read the Verizon specific threads on rooting the Note 4 if you intend to buy a phone specifically for rooting. Personally I really don't feel the need to root the phone. For me it works fine (although I do use a custom launcher so I can customize the look and feel). I also disable any bloatware that I never use. Unfortunately you can't completely remove the bloatware without root.
The Note 4 is still an amazing phone whether you want to use it stock and unrooted or whether you want to root and flash roms. Be advised tho this particular model is a pain in the rea to roo but keep at it and you'll get it done no problem.
Personally? I can't find a phone to replace it. For me, I'm network flexible, and I've considered a V20 on TMO, but honestly I can't find a reason to switch. Rarely if ever do I feel like I need more ram, and that's basically the only significant feature that the v20 would pose for an upgrade. And I'd miss EVERYTHING ELSE about the samsung. Reasons to buy it? Cheap, plenty of power left in the processor/ram category IMO, REMOVEABLE BATTERY (this is something I can't stress enough for me personally. And I can not stand that newer models don't have it.) IR support (why would they get rid of this, why?! why?!?!) and its TWRP/root capable. Again, something I can hardly stand to live without. My phone is ad blocked, xposed, etc... I'll be eating out and I'll start changing TV volumes and my friends just get this WTF look on their face... And I can't find a newer phone to beat it, that has all the same features, and can still be TWRP. My opinion? Yeah, it IS the best phone, and maybe the last GOOD phone samsung ever made. I know there's tradeoff arguments to be made. But they'll drag me to the grave with my note 4. No way I'll be switching until the last boat leaves the dock, and the phone simply can't function in society any more. Hopefully by then, there will once again be another option with removeable battery, IR, TWRP.... but we can only hope.
For what its worth, I switched from a note 4 to the v20. I miss the stylus occasionally but there's a solution for screen writing included with the phone. I like the v20 more
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
I've had mine since about 6 months after release. It was a decent phone when it was still locked, but once we got root, it became a phenomenal device. I've been eligible for upgrade for over a year, but I haven't seen a new phone I'm willing to replace it with. Getting hard to find removable batteries and SD cards. I'm curious about the upcoming Pixel 2, but mostly I'm just hoping my phone will last forever.
At this point, if it dies, I'll probably hunt down another Note 4.
I think the note 4 has been a decent phone. I purchased mine new in 2015. It's always had a really poor camera that dosent auto focus without shaking it repeatedly (common issue). It's also had a round of boot looping, which could only be corrected with a factory reset. After boot looping and other random crashing issues where it suddenly powers off. I've decided to move to an LG v20. P. S. You can buy a brand new note 5 for 259.
For fun, thought I'd drop in now that 2018 is looming.
I love my Note 4 (T-Mobile). I'm a flashaholic, and there's plenty out there (though my ext sd card makes Marshmallow roms my preference, since Nougat keeps wanting to reformat the 128g sd I have in this thing!).
I've flashed a few dozen different roms on this thing and it doesn't mind at all. Bought it used off ebay (I didn't know about the emm memory mess back then, which would have given me some pause even if ebay does favor the buyer). But it runs perfectly for me. I use a rubber case because I'm paranoid.
Reasons I really like this phone?
1. big screen.
2. durable.
3. REMOVABLE battery.
4. External SD card slot (at least 128g works just fine, maybe even more?)
Reasons to not go with it?
1. Ya gotta have the newest and shiniest.
2. Small but real possibility you'll run into the emmc memory issue (if you do, get your money back from whoever sold the phone to you and/or chuck it in the trash - game over).
I love the Note 4 and was thinking about rooting it. It's the longest I've ever had a phone. Been about 3 years now and it still runs strong for daily use. Most people don't even use a phone for its full potential. It's a tool for their social media, snapping a few pics, browsing the web, paying some bills (which we all hate), getting directions, etc. As a daily driver, it's been great and I can't find a reason to upgrade to a flashier new phone for $800 plus. I'm the type that if it still works well, then there's no point in replacing it. It still performs as well as middle of the pack models even 4 years after it's release. And the 515ppi 5.7" screen with 2k quality doesn't make the phone feel dated at all. Only the style of the phone feels dated but most of us have a case on it anyway. So hopefully with a new 3220mah battery and a root, this phone will last me a little longer since it still does what I tell it to and with T-Mobile LTE, which is nearly 2 times faster than Sprint, and WiFi through Verizon Fios keeps it snappy and feeling smooth.