I know there are a lot versus threads popping up (OP3 vs Samsung S7, OP3 vs Nexus 6P,.. ), but I would really like to hear your opinions about the ZTE Axon 7.
https://www.zteusa.com/axon7/
http://forum.xda-developers.com/axon-7
I'm very interested in the Oneplus 3, but the Axon 7 looks so promising.
I really don't understand why this device isn't getting more attention. (Bad marketing?)
It is on many point familiar with the OP3. But imo has more interesting features.
They are releasing a 6GB/128GB model and a 4GB/64GB model.
- Same Snapdragon 820 CPU
- Same Adreno 530 GPU
- Both are Dual SIM
- Same screen size
Pro's for the ZTE Axon 7
MicroSD support
1440 x 2560 resolution display instead of 1080 x 1920.
20MP camera (can't really compare the quality)
Quality dual front facing speakers
Larger battery (not by much. 3140 vs 3000 mAh)
Pro's for the Oneplus 3
Great community and custom rom support.
Comparison between the two on GSMArena
I also prefer the fingerprint sensor on the back, but I admit this is personal preference.
The only thing I'm afraid of would be the possible lack of a community.
So please tell me. Why should I choose the Oneplus 3?
I personally don't know anything about zte development here on xda(my bad) the specs are look really promising.
But think about it. It's only 140mAh more battery for a 2K display...and don't want to mention the phone's own UI(talking about the optimization)
It is a bad marketing from ZTE, I haven't heard about the device at all....
The sd card is just unnecessary for the 6gb/128gb IMHO.
When is this phone gonna be released? Interested abou the price and want to know if it will have a European version....
Sent from my ONE A2003 using XDA-Developers mobile app
It is a AMOLED display, so battery shouldn't be too affected.. They are aiming for google daydream support after all and a resolution like that is required.
The MicroSD slot is a hybrid SIM-slot. Unnecessary since I will be using 2 sims, and like you said, 128GB is more than enough storage. But useful when I think of flashing a new rom.
If I read correct the release should be somewhere in mid June - begin Juli.
So hopefully not much longer.
I have been searching for a phone for at least 6 months and this phone was on my list.
I compared the OP 3, Axon 7, and the Zenphone 3 deluxe.
All very similar in specs besides the screen on ZTE axon 7. Both zenfone 3 d and axon have the front facing speakers, but also both start at a higher price tag for what I consider not important enough features for me to justify the jump.
The oneplus 3 has everything on the inside the other two do, yet an appealing price tag, and developer community is not just supported, but encouraged. This made the phone a win in my book. I can manage fine with a decent display and lose the dual front facing speakers (which I really wanted). It literally depends on how much your willing to spend for what is important to you.
Either way, the ZTE seems to be a fine phone, and is a top contender for anyone. I just didn't want to pay more for a less ram/storage option over what the op3 offered me.
Sent from my A0001 using Tapatalk
Keep in mind that the ZTE offers a free extended warranty program 'Passport 2.0'.
A similar warranty program for the OP3 costs you $80 extra.
Axon 7 + Passport 2.0 (2 years warranty and free out-of-warranty repairs): $450
OnePlus3 + On-Guard Plus 24 (2 years protection similar to Passport 2.0): $399 + $80 = $479.
But yeah.. not that I was going to buy that extra warranty for the OP3. So I get your point.
Coming from the 10, a lot of the Axon 7s features really struck a chord with me, like the dual FFS, and their insane attention to detail when it comes to headphone audio.
However, aside from that I can think of like 0 reason to pick it over the 10 or the OP3. Why am I going to OP3/7 after owning a 10? Great question. I just have an obsession with trying new phones. Maybe an addiction.
Not sure either will stay, but I love trying them all.
There is also the ZUK Z2 Pro which has a 5.2" Full HD screen.
Last time I took a look at the ZTE Axon 7 this was what I learned:
- ZTE = active in USA (outside their home markets), Passport 2.0 program applies to USA (afaik), ZTE is looking to expand their activity in EU but so far they don't even really have an active EU site (again afaik).
- I have contacted ZTE about EU availability, they did "not know anything" at the time, ZTE UK even tweeted Q4 release in UK (in 4 months maybe the new nexus is the new star).
twitter.com/ZTE_UK/status/743094792049987584
- The 'normal' Axon 7 has huge top/bottom bezels, the premium (6GB version, touch force, wood inlay, capacitive buttons on the bottom) is again no information on if it would launch in USA/EMEA markets (maybe China only). I was very interested in the premium for a short time but I have serious doubts they won't put a 500+ $/€ price tag on it, which blows past my price point for a "Chinese Brand" phone.
Pretty much the same applies to the Zuk Z2 Pro which is only available in EU region through import (so far) and that raises the price as well.
Now all this was last week, maybe fresh info points to other availability/launch dates.
tl:dr: For USA Axon7 is a OP3 contender, for EU we'll have to wait (for months possibly).
I've tried ZTE in the past, non of the ZTE devices I've owned have ever received updates or timely ones, and the XDA community for these devices just doesn't exist. My dad's Alcatel phone recently died (another garbage brand), and I decided to get him ZTE phone. I knew that I shouldn't have, and I was right, the capacitive keys just stopped working on it, and my dad is currently using it without them until I get him a better phone... Just avoid the following brands BLU, Alcatel, ZTE, ASUS (for smartphones), and the myriad of cheap Chinese brands out there. Either the XDA community will not exist, and/or they do not support their devices, and/or the hardware quality control is piss poor. The only Chinese brands I trust are Oneplus, Xiaomi, and Huawei.
You actually trust xiaomi? The Mi5 is the most flimsy phone I have ever felt lmao...
I should tell you. This phone was given to me for development purposes. 1st time in the pocket... Cracked screen
Sent from my MI 5 using Tapatalk
TheDriller said:
You actually trust xiaomi? The Mi5 is the most flimsy phone I have ever felt lmao...
I should tell you. This phone was given to me for development purposes. 1st time in the pocket... Cracked screen
Sent from my MI 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only Chinese branded smartphones I've owned from the brands I recommended have been the OPO and the 6P. To this day both of those stand as the only two smartphones that I call the best I've ever had. As far as Xiaomi goes, I've been very happy with their Yi action cam and the random home electronic devices, trinkets, and accessories I've bought from them. Hell, I even use their huge mouse and keyboard pads on my gaming rig now. I've heard many good things about their smartphones, but I trust you in your assessment of them, smartphones are a lot harder to pull off.
Sent from my A0001 using Tapatalk
Awesome. Thanks for the feedback!
Guess I'm going to wait a bit longer for the release announcement, but as it looks now, the OP3 looks like the better choice when you're in the EU.
I had to think about aswell and my choice ist the axon 7. Better Display, Better Sound and Better camera. It has am mircosd Slot. Look at this Video. http://youtu.be/anmqPsVYeN0/
Gesendet von meinem Redmi Note 2 mit Tapatalk
I think a big determining factor for me is well the zte axon 7 be be rootable? We know the one plus 3 will be but many of other zte phones weren't rootable.
Sent from my SM-G920T using XDA-Developers mobile app
I was on the fringe between buying op3 or waiting for the axon 7. I decided on the op3 for two reasons. , Capacitive buttons, 6gb ram and dev support. OK 3 reasons. I am French American and travel to France a lot. I looked the ZTE for the front speakers and full Eu and USA LTE bands. But i decided on the op3. Excited to receive it.
My reason for OP3 was minimal bloatware, and presece of google services. Now this is kinda something you better dont expect right out of the box with the chinese phones. You can install google services, yes, but there might be some issues here and there. The Axon7 is a beast. But wheb you look at Axon Elite, which is sold for $200 and has not that great support well...
Odoslané z ONEPLUS A3003 pomocou Tapatalku
wayne_sk said:
My reason for OP3 was minimal bloatware, and presece of google services. Now this is kinda something you better dont expect right out of the box with the chinese phones. You can install google services, yes, but there might be some issues here and there. The Axon7 is a beast. But wheb you look at Axon Elite, which is sold for $200 and has not that great support well...
Odoslané z ONEPLUS A3003 pomocou Tapatalku
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The axon 7 has google service..
Sent from my ZTE A2017U using Tapatalk
one huge PRO for the OP3 is OxygenOS, which is near stock vs the touchwize-like modifications on the ZTE Axon
Pro's:
- Really need 2k display ? (Google Daydream also applys for thr Oneplus 3)
- Micro SdCard is for Musik&Pictures&Videos etc. If you have a lot okay (64gb modell). But 64Gb is enougth imo
- More Battery doesn't mean better batterylife (+2K display uses more)
I'll recommend you the OnePlus 3 after using it for a Month.
Pro's for the OnePlus 3:
- Really easy unlocking bootloader (one fastboot command) + warrenty
- Great Dev Community
- Great Stock OS
- Rocking Fingerprintsensor
(- I like the Design more, it just looks more premium imo )
- really big Pro is DASH Charge
OnePlus 3 - OP3Lite | systemless root | xposed v86 ?
I have both and right now, I'd have to say unless you need a SLIGHTLY better camera, or stronger cell reception then your better off with the Axon 7. Speaker, DAC, screen, build and battery are all better on the Axon. in places im seeing signals of -120 to -123db on my Axon, the OnePlus is at -116 to 118. Even with that said, the Axon still takes the win on battery life.
So I have been racking my brain on what phone to buy my Nexus 6 is on its last leg and I just would like something new. So do you guys like your phone? Has it been worth it? I do like the look and I would probably be running an AOSP ROM of some kind but I'm more concerned with the Hardware? Have you guys had any major issues that would make it a deal breaker? So Otherwise I've always used the Nexus line but I just can't afford a Pixel so I'm kinda have been torn on what phone to buy a Nexus 6p, Moto G5, Honor 7, or maybe an HTC 10 or a U11 or a OnePlus 3t if I can find one cheap enough. I would like to keep it under 250$ 300$ max. Thx for all your help...
Also, development is important to me.:good::good:
NUGZZ420 said:
So I have been racking my brain on what phone to buy my Nexus 6 is on its last leg and I just would like something new. So do you guys like your -------------buy a Nexus 6p, Moto G5, Honor 7, or maybe an HTC 10 or a U11 or a OnePlus 3t if I can find one cheap enough. I would like to keep it under 250$ 300$ max. Thx for all your help...
Also, development is important to me.:good::good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interested in development and custom ROMs!! then better stay away from this device. The scene might change once Oreo gets released but no one is sure when it will come.
P.S. There is no stock firmware yet for this device to restore.
If you don't need NFC or quick charge I believe you'll be happy with this phone. There's a few parameters I want in a phone and this has them---
#1---Battery life. I have NEVER had a phone with battery life like this one. I have had the Samsung note 5, Note 3, S4 active, LG g3 and a few others...even from day one there's no comparison. For example, yesterday I was on my phone texting throughout the super bowl (Philly here ) streaming MP3's, browsing the internet, etc. When I got home at midnight my phone was on 79%. Simply amazing.
#2---screen..it's essentially a 1080P screen and images are crisp and detailed. Compared to my Note 5, it's not as good side by side, but it's marginal. Still very acceptable
#3--- Speed and customization. Both are very acceptable and scrolling etc is smooth on most items but occasionally is quirky especially scrolling through group texts. Must be a bug or something.
#4---Photos are a little over saturated in daylight shots but I believe they're better than ALL of my previous Samsung phones. I have not really experimented with darker scenes and can't tell about that. Also, I've been using the standard setting for now and believe photos will get better as I adjust them
#5---form factor. It's a slim phone in every way and seems smaller but I guess being "bezel-less" makes it appear so...
Depending on your budget, you might consider the Huawei Mate 9. You can still buy new units and some vendors are starting to give steep discounts--B&H Photo sold their stock off at around $350 to make way for new models. Huawei's Oreo Beta has been rolled out to this phone. It's got a great Leica dual lens camera with a true B&W camera (check out the photos in the XDA Developers forum for the camera), NFC and a 4000MaH battery. I've given up waiting for Huawei to decide on whether they're really going to bring the Honor V10 to North America, the Mate 9 and Mate 10 (original, not Pro) top my list for a replacement phone. If you live in a large city, read Amazon reviews of the 7X. The lack of 2 WIFI bands is causing some people to return the 7X because WIFI congestion is keeping the phone from operating well on WIFI.
Well Thx everyone I am semi tempted to jump on one and I have looked at the Mate 9 some and I might try and pick one up before too long. I also might just grab a Nexus 6p I found one for 125$ and it seems fine and then maybe save up for something in the future. I am also reading that all kinds of phones are having proximity sensor problems after updating to Oreo and I think that's one of the problems my nexus 6 is having and I cant fix it no matter what I try from app to xposed apps. So IDK we will see thx for your help as well I still am halfway tempted to grab one of these just to give it a shot for the price it seems nice and I don't live in a huge city so I would hope my wifi would be ok.
NUGZZ420 said:
Well Thx everyone I am semi tempted to jump on one and I have looked at the Mate 9 some and I might try and pick one up before too long. I also might just grab a Nexus 6p I found one for 125$ and it seems fine and then maybe save up for something in the future. I am also reading that all kinds of phones are having proximity sensor problems after updating to Oreo and I think that's one of the problems my nexus 6 is having and I cant fix it no matter what I try from app to xposed apps. So IDK we will see thx for your help as well I still am halfway tempted to grab one of these just to give it a shot for the price it seems nice and I don't live in a huge city so I would hope my wifi would be ok.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good luck. All your options sound good. It's too bad Huawei decided to only include one WIFI band in the 7X, knowing they planned on marketing this in North America, where WIFI adoption is so widespread that 2 bands are essential to avoid congestion issues for all those in large urban areas. It will not be cost effective in the long run, given how many potential customers are affected by WIFI congestion, and clearly shows that a Chinese-dominated staff is making serious missteps in markets outside of China. Huawei desperately needs to hire western technical consulting companies and actually listen to them . They build beautiful and dependable phones that rival all their competitors. It's silly missteps like this that can mar their brand reputation. I think all the other cost cutting steps for the 7X are fine.
Having just 2.4ghz doesn't bother me much although I think they still should have added 5ghz. An old Lenovo K3 Note phone which I don't use anymore only had 2.4ghz also, however a custom rom allowed it to have 5ghz turned on. I wonder if it was hidden on this phone also.
The 2.4ghz on the Honor 7x connects to my router at half the speed my Samsung Galaxy Note 4 does.
Hi,
I'm thinking of getting an S22, but I would appreciate your help with answering a few questions first: (if you don't want or can't answer these questions, please skip to the end of the post)
1. I understand that the Snapdragon version is much better. Is it also more supported community/ROM wise?
2. How is the battery life, if the phone is usually on idle, with a few phone talks over the day, some music, and lets say about 1 hour of screen time (continuously)? If that is the usage for a day, will it last for two days? (approximately, based on your experience)
3. This One UI, is it good, comfortable to use? Can it be replaced by replacing a launcher, or do you have to flash a new ROM?
4. Speaking of ROMs, I assume flashing ROMs/kernels is still pretty easy? The last Galaxy phone I had is the S1 and a lot of time has passed, but I remember not struggling much, and coursing through ROMs was a breeze.
5. I know you'll probably be biased towards the S22, but I'm debating over it VS the Pixel 7. Considering the fact that I can't use the unique features of the Pixel 7 (Google assistant screening spam calls, making appointments, etc.) since I don't live in the US or a country where these features are supported, and that I prefer smaller screens, which one should I choose?
In general, what do you think of the phone? Are you happy with it? Can you provide examples of pros and cons?
Thank you!
Limited max of 256gb internal storage, max of 8gb of ram, no expandable storage, and a small 3700 mAh for a power hungry Snapdragon.
Rounded display corners and a lousy ~87.4% screen-to-body ratio. blah.
Snapdragon's are notoriously hard or impossible to root. The stock launcher is superior to any 3rd party launcher.
If 5G and a variable refresh rate display (which are known to have multiple issues including less color/gamma accuracy) aren't important to you a N10+ in good condition or new is a better choice and cheaper. It's a solid performer.
Otherwise OP phones seem to have a better track record than the last 2 generations of Samsung's.
Thanks for your answer. Actually I'm perfectly fine with 128GB of storage, the amount of RAM is incredible (I'm not a heavy gamer, not even a gamer on mobile) and the screen size, ratio is fine for me I guess.
I am worried about the Snapdragon version being impossible to root, because the Snapdragon version phone is much faster from what I understand. Also it's very strange, I've had no problems rooting previous phones with Snapdragon.
It will sound funny but I do want a high refresh rate, for me it's important the the phone feels smooth. I'm already hearing about the Pixel 7 having scrolling issues and that concerns me because like I said, I'm also thinking about buying it, if not the S22.
TheeWolf said:
Thanks for your answer. Actually I'm perfectly fine with 128GB of storage, the amount of RAM is incredible (I'm not a heavy gamer, not even a gamer on mobile) and the screen size, ratio is fine for me I guess.
I am worried about the Snapdragon version being impossible to root, because the Snapdragon version phone is much faster from what I understand. Also it's very strange, I've had no problems rooting previous phones with Snapdragon.
It will sound funny but I do want a high refresh rate, for me it's important the the phone feels smooth. I'm already hearing about the Pixel 7 having scrolling issues and that concerns me because like I said, I'm also thinking about buying it, if not the S22.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You lose nothing by waiting. I don't buy a new phone every year or two in part because it's always a crap shoot. Waiting reduces the odds of getting stuck with a dud. 128gb isn't much storage; my minimum is 256 and that's with a 1tb SD card used as a data drive. Basically it's my PC, all my PC's are dual drive, even laptops.
I keep seeing good things about OP, they seem to have less display issues. For a gamer that might be a good choice. My requirements are different from yours, I have one game which runs well
I really like Samsung's UI and the Good Lock family of apps that modify it. The almost endless free icon packs and themes on the Galaxy store. Pixels homescreen's look gaudy and barren by comparison. Not many stock mods either. Samsung's can run very well stock once optimized. They need to be optimized... and that will take time until you're up to speed.
Warning, learning curve ahead. That's another big reason I don't upgrade firmware or devices often if the device is fulfilling its mission. I'm a conservative pragmatist and will use whatever comes in handy. Think it through and get what best suits your requirements and fullfills the mission with minimal maintenance. That's all the counts
Media server in progress; 240gb in mostly .wav files, over 150gb, many are hd movies. All stream seamlessly from the V30 rated card. When watching them from storage my SOT is as low as 6%@hr vs browser streaming at 12%@hr. Writes at about [email protected] from internal storage.
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Because color accuracy and calibration directly impact gamma accuracy/calibration the fixed rate refresh rate display of the superb N10+ display is uniquely qualified for this role. My decision wasn't rushed or arbitrary when I went with a second N10+ as a backup. It was purely mission and fun oriented. For my purposes no other device even today is better suited or qualified... which is sort of sad.
TheeWolf said:
Thanks for your answer. Actually I'm perfectly fine with 128GB of storage, the amount of RAM is incredible (I'm not a heavy gamer, not even a gamer on mobile) and the screen size, ratio is fine for me I guess.
I am worried about the Snapdragon version being impossible to root, because the Snapdragon version phone is much faster from what I understand. Also it's very strange, I've had no problems rooting previous phones with Snapdragon.
It will sound funny but I do want a high refresh rate, for me it's important the the phone feels smooth. I'm already hearing about the Pixel 7 having scrolling issues and that concerns me because like I said, I'm also thinking about buying it, if not the S22.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The P7's screen can "only" reach 90Hz while all S22 variants can go up to 120Hz, so it's not comparable.
Rooting Snapdragon models is a problem mostly for carrier devices. The Snapdragon S90xE models are easily rooted and also have twrp if you need it.
My S901E (regular S22) just got updated to android 13 which I obviously rooted too and it's running great.
Pixel 6 and 7 series are only older samsung exynos (oops tensor) devices with vanilla google os ...
If you're worried about S22's battery, just don't compare it with bigger phones, or at least just do some maths to convert its most relative known SOT to correspond to the target compared device's capacity. You'll end up saying "it's great for a 3700mAh battery, really great ..."
DaReDeViL said:
The P7's screen can "only" reach 90Hz while all S22 variants can go up to 120Hz, so it's not comparable.
Rooting Snapdragon models is a problem mostly for carrier devices. The Snapdragon S90xE models are easily rooted and also have twrp if you need it.
My S901E (regular S22) just got updated to android 13 which I obviously rooted too and it's running great.
Pixel 6 and 7 series are only older samsung exynos (oops tensor) devices with vanilla google os ...
If you're worried about S22's battery, just don't compare it with bigger phones, or at least just do some maths to convert its most relative known SOT to correspond to the target compared device's capacity. You'll end up saying "it's great for a 3700mAh battery, really great ..."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What kind of SOT are you seeing now on an optimized S22? What's SOT with 5G disabled or if locked to 60hz?
DaReDeViL said:
Rooting Snapdragon models is a problem mostly for carrier devices. The Snapdragon S90xE models are easily rooted and also have twrp if you need it.
My S901E (regular S22) just got updated to android 13 which I obviously rooted too and it's running great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good! The model I can buy locally is SM-S901E/DS, and I don't live in the US, so according to what you're saying, I can root it, right?
blackhawk said:
What kind of SOT are you seeing now on an optimized S22? What's SOT with 5G disabled or if locked to 60hz?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was getting easy 5 to 7 hours SOT a day with no special optimization. 120Hz, no gaming, no social networks, just calls, surfing, taking pics, whatsapp messaging, youtube (revanced), ... and some fews other boring apps.
I can even get more if I switch from 4G to 3G and creating a 4G manual routine when needed (because why keep power hungry 4G during the day while I only need its speed occasionally)
TheeWolf said:
Good! The model I can buy locally is SM-S901E/DS, and I don't live in the US, so according to what you're saying, I can root it, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh yes, you can!
Battery aside rest phone is awesome and compact. In n era of TV sized phones this phone is a beast
DaReDeViL said:
I was getting easy 5 to 7 hours SOT a day with no special optimization. 120Hz, no gaming, no social networks, just calls, surfing, taking pics, whatsapp messaging, youtube (revanced), ... and some fews other boring apps.
I can even get more if I switch from 4G to 3G and creating a 4G manual routine when needed (because why keep power hungry 4G during the day while I only need its speed occasionally)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol, what's 3G? No such thing here anymore.
I run 4G with wifi always disabled. Google play Services, and Gmail are at most times disabled and all cloud apps never run. Playstore is rarely enabled. About 80 packages are blocked.
WhatsApp is likely killing more than it's fair share.
My stock N975U1 is getting a lot better SOT even with a derated battery (3400-3700 mAh).
My question is what's eating so much power, is it the display, 5G, the Android version (scooped storage)?
These newer phones have more efficient ram and the SOC should be more efficient as well.
Even now streaming vids I get 12-14%@hr. The battery is near replacement level (20% degraded)... when I get around to it.
blackhawk said:
Lol, what's 3G? No such thing here anymore.
I run 4G with wifi always disabled. Google play Services, and Gmail are at most times disabled and all cloud apps never run. Playstore is rarely enabled. About 80 packages are blocked.
WhatsApp is likely killing more than it's fair share.
My stock N975U1 is getting a lot better SOT even with a derated battery (3400-3700 mAh).
My question is what's eating so much power, is it the display, 5G, the Android version (scooped storage)?
These newer phones have more efficient ram and the SOC should be more efficient as well.
Even now streaming vids I get 12-14%@hr. The battery is near replacement level (20% degraded)... when I get around to it.
View attachment 5742873
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol HSPA+ and even GPRS are still available in my country. Switching to 3G allows me to have slightly more SOT.
Regarding optimization, I learned the hard way that too much tinkering can give inverse results and even kill the "smart" part of the smartphone.
DaReDeViL said:
Lol HSPA+ and even GPRS are still available in my country. Switching to 3G allows me to have slightly more SOT.
Regarding optimization, I learned the hard way that too much tinkering can give inverse results and even kill the "smart" part of the smartphone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No 3G here killed my oldest phone.
Yeah if you go too nuts optimizing it will end up biting you. Beginning with Android 10 Samsung added dozens of small systems apks that mostly to modify the UI. Most shouldn't be touched.
My list of blocked packages is almost the same for the Q loaded N975U1 as used on the Pie loaded N975U though. Took quit a while to work it out the first time... dependencies are a witch.
For me the phone is fine in most regards.
Exynos is plenty fast for daily use and battery life is supposedly better than snap.
I am new to Samsung as well and am not impressed by modding options.
To me it is clear that Samsung is the most Apple like android.
Rooting is no issue, but you will lose DRM verification, so lower quality YouTube Netflix and such.
A PC is always needed to flash an update, which for some of us has been impossible without full wiping by the way.
I can get 2 days with light use similar to what you described.
I do have 5g disabled as 4g is crazy fast already where I live/work.
A bit of debloating, mostly as i am annoyed by all these apps being there.
Oneui is actually quite good, but some mods with good lock and running nova.
bamn said:
For me the phone is fine in most regards.
Exynos is plenty fast for daily use and battery life is supposedly better than snap.
I am new to Samsung as well and am not impressed by modding options.
To me it is clear that Samsung is the most Apple like android.
Rooting is no issue, but you will lose DRM verification, so lower quality YouTube Netflix and such.
A PC is always needed to flash an update, which for some of us has been impossible without full wiping by the way.
I can get 2 days with light use similar to what you described.
I do have 5g disabled as 4g is crazy fast already where I live/work.
A bit of debloating, mostly as i am annoyed by all these apps being there.
Oneui is actually quite good, but some mods with good lock and running nova.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!
A bummer with DRM, I thought this was exclusive to Sony (I currently own Xperia XZ2 compact), didn't think I'd encounter the dilemma whether to root or not because of this DRM again.
A question (for everyone here), how is call quality? Can you hear the other person clearly, can they hear you clearly? Is the speaker loud enough when on speaker?
I know it's a basic question but it's something I thought about because Google started rolling out "Clear calling" in the Pixel 7 and although I'm very much leaning to the S22, this seems like an important advantage of the Pixel (unless somehow the feature will reach Samsung or people with other phones).
Yeah DRM sucks a bit, especially since the screen is worth the quality content.
I found out after rooting only, but I can definitely live with it.
To me rooting is still worth it in the end.
Not much to say regarding call quality, i don't call a lot.
I have never been bothered with the quality or speaker volume so I suppose it's not very bad.
TheeWolf said:
Thanks!
A bummer with DRM, I thought this was exclusive to Sony (I currently own Xperia XZ2 compact), didn't think I'd encounter the dilemma whether to root or not because of this DRM again.
A question (for everyone here), how is call quality? Can you hear the other person clearly, can they hear you clearly? Is the speaker loud enough when on speaker?
I know it's a basic question but it's something I thought about because Google started rolling out "Clear calling" in the Pixel 7 and although I'm very much leaning to the S22, this seems like an important advantage of the Pixel (unless somehow the feature will reach Samsung or people with other phones).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DRM can be fixed by magisk modules.
Call quality is great even on loudspeaker.
TheeWolf said:
Hi,
I'm thinking of getting an S22, but I would appreciate your help with answering a few questions first: (if you don't want or can't answer these questions, please skip to the end of the post)
1. I understand that the Snapdragon version is much better. Is it also more supported community/ROM wise?
2. How is the battery life, if the phone is usually on idle, with a few phone talks over the day, some music, and lets say about 1 hour of screen time (continuously)? If that is the usage for a day, will it last for two days? (approximately, based on your experience)
3. This One UI, is it good, comfortable to use? Can it be replaced by replacing a launcher, or do you have to flash a new ROM?
4. Speaking of ROMs, I assume flashing ROMs/kernels is still pretty easy? The last Galaxy phone I had is the S1 and a lot of time has passed, but I remember not struggling much, and coursing through ROMs was a breeze.
5. I know you'll probably be biased towards the S22, but I'm debating over it VS the Pixel 7. Considering the fact that I can't use the unique features of the Pixel 7 (Google assistant screening spam calls, making appointments, etc.) since I don't live in the US or a country where these features are supported, and that I prefer smaller screens, which one should I choose?
In general, what do you think of the phone? Are you happy with it? Can you provide examples of pros and cons?
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. I have SD version. I used to flash Custom ROMs on all my previous phone after those stop receiving updated OS. Also for not missing out new features. Right now, with 4 years of OS guarantee by Samsung, I don't see myself going for custom ROMs on my S22. I use Magisk and a few other modules.
2. Battery life is very subjective and personal. For me, it lasts 24 hours on a single charge with 30% left before I charge it again. I don't play heavy games. I have Sudoko, Alto's Adventure, and Flappy Bird (hahaha).. Just to pass the time when I am waiting for someone or something. That's it. I save the heavy/real gaming for bigger screens and PC (for better experience)
I too had less than ideal battery endurance during the first two weeks. It's been the case for the past Samsung devices I have used. So, I knew it would improve after settling in. I resetted the phone before I manually configured the apps and transferred my old data to S22. (Painfully long process) Usually do with Titanium Backup Pro but I wanted it to be a fresh start.
On a regular day.. Connected on WIFI always. 2 SIM cards (1st 2G/3G/4G and 2nd only 2G). I use Slack with 3 different workspaces. 5 Emails on Gmail ( 3 syncing regularly), 1 Samsung account syncing, 2 more work emails syncing on Samsung Email app. Some Chrome use. FlipBoard, Pocket, and Medium reading at the end of the day. Whatsapp, Whatsapp Business, and Telegram usage. Google Drive and Sheet. A few pics here and there.
10 mins of Social media if neeeded. Sometimes music. No watching videos on a regular day. Some 30-60 mins of calls. Buds Pro and Amazfit T Rex Pro connected always.
I get 4 to 5 hours of Screen on Time with 22 to 24 hours overall usage, still with 30% battery remaining. I don't spend time outdoor during day time, so the screen doesn't have to be fully lit. Auto Brightness manages it. Biggest draw on battery for me is the video call, some 18-20% an hour. Next is the outdoor navigation for 10 mins, lost like 3-4%.
I have removed FB app, MS apps and a few Google apps. Also a few Samsung apps which I found no use for. Though I have Root, I found ADB is much easier than Root for removing/disabling these apps. 120 Hz Adaptive refresh rate on. Adaptive Battery. Add some apps to Deep Sleep. That's it. Greenify didn't seem to make a difference in my usage. So stopped.
Accubattery Stats are like.. Discharge 1% an hour on Standby and 10% an hour on screen usage (Wifi and indoors). (I have installed around 100 third party apps on this phone)
I was waiting on the sidelines for the first few months. Was waiting for Samsung to release some updates and improve the battery endurance (as usual). Online reviews were mostly negative due to their usage patterns. My usage is different from theirs. I am still little upset at Samsung for being a jerk by reducing the battery capacity instead of increasing it, just like any other greedy company. So the negative reviews are necessary to call out their wicked move. Hey, if your usage is something like mine, you can go ahead. It's not bad at all. Better battery than my S8 when it was new and 20% less efficient than my S20 FE 5G or A52.
3. I am on One UI 5.0 Stable/Rooted. So far, So good. Minor but good improvements from One UI 4.1. I am using Nova Launcher Prime.. been like this for the last 5 years. I just don't like the homescreen and app drawer arrangements on One UI. That's all. Everything else is so good. I personally love One UI for its functionality. It has evolved a lot. People complain about bloatware either have not used One UI 3 or later versions on flagship devices. Bloatwares are there in mid and low end devices, that too getting less nowadays (comparing with M12).
4. I too was tempted to try custom Kernel during the first week. But I wanted to wait and see what this device had to offer in terms of battery life. I am happy without custom kernel. Flashing Custom ROMs and kernels are just like any other Samsung phones. But I find it much easier than Moto or Xiaomi phones.
5. I replaced my S8 with S20 FE 5G and I didn't like the size. I replaced it with S22. Compactness, easy to use. Better cameras than S20 FE 5G. Average battery life. Good build. One UI is good. If I had the chance to decide again, I would still choose S22 over Pixel 7 or 7 Pro. Overall experience matters than a few extra features.
I hope this helps!
Edit: One UI 5.0 has come with a feature, Bixby Text Call - similar to Pixel's Call Screening feature. I have no use for it. I haven't tried it. Currently, the translation/transcription only supports Korean language.
Call Quality with and without Wifi Calling/VOLTE enabled, is super clear for both parties. Better than any phone I have used, even their own S8, A52, and S20 FE 5G. Even on loud speaker, I would sit a few feet away from my phone and still it would be clear to both parties without any issues. We also have inbuilt sound quality settings to tweak to our needs. I found this for the first time on One UI 4.0
@Vorion Thank you so much for this very detailed answer!
By the way, about the Bixby text call, from what I understand it's not like the Pixel's call screening feature, it's actually designed to make you communicate with someone in a "text call" - you type messages, the other side hears your messages in a Bixby's automated voice. What the other side says you will read as it will be converted to text.
TheeWolf said:
Hi,
I'm thinking of getting an S22, but I would appreciate your help with answering a few questions first: (if you don't want or can't answer these questions, please skip to the end of the post)
1. I understand that the Snapdragon version is much better. Is it also more supported community/ROM wise?
2. How is the battery life, if the phone is usually on idle, with a few phone talks over the day, some music, and lets say about 1 hour of screen time (continuously)? If that is the usage for a day, will it last for two days? (approximately, based on your experience)
3. This One UI, is it good, comfortable to use? Can it be replaced by replacing a launcher, or do you have to flash a new ROM?
4. Speaking of ROMs, I assume flashing ROMs/kernels is still pretty easy? The last Galaxy phone I had is the S1 and a lot of time has passed, but I remember not struggling much, and coursing through ROMs was a breeze.
5. I know you'll probably be biased towards the S22, but I'm debating over it VS the Pixel 7. Considering the fact that I can't use the unique features of the Pixel 7 (Google assistant screening spam calls, making appointments, etc.) since I don't live in the US or a country where these features are supported, and that I prefer smaller screens, which one should I choose?
In general, what do you think of the phone? Are you happy with it? Can you provide examples of pros and cons?
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have had my S22 for approximately 2 months and am not happy with it. It is more to do with Samsung than the device because I had a S9+ before and traded it for the S22. The Samsung advertising leaves a lot to be desired. It said I could get a S22 Ultra with my tradein for only a couple hundred. As it turned out the S22 was almost full price. They said the offer was for a S22+ traded in for S22 Ultra would only be a couple hundred. So I settled for the S22. I just should have had my S9+ fixed (The front and back separated from the frame). The S22 doesn't have a micro card slot so you can't add memory(storage). The side buttons are different fromt he S9+ and positioned differently so I continually hit the wrong buttons. I don't know the Pixel 7 so I can't compare that one. I just know I'm not happy with the S22.