Moving from SG8 - Google Pixel 2 XL Questions & Answers

Anyone gone from an S8 to a 2xl? Bit bored of Samsung now and tempted to switch. Doesn't look like the S9 will be groundbreaking.
What features will I miss? Iris scanner I think is the main one, using it to log into websites etc is great.
Is there much performance difference between the two? I've heard that everything is supposed to be much smoother on the pixel.

Hello, I have a Galaxy S8+ now using a pixel 2 XL
And you are correct it is so much smoother.
Also the Sound is great. Also the Camera is nothing short of fantastic.
You must bear in mind there is no "themes" you can change it with some 3rd party.
Other than that it's Android no bloatware overlay. Hope this helps.

Great, thanks. So overall do you prefer the Pixel?
The only theme I use on my SGS8 is to make it more stock android, so I'm fine without that.

Nick676 said:
Great, thanks. So overall do you prefer the Pixel?
The only theme I use on my SGS8 is to make it more stock android, so I'm fine without that.
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Ive done that move and I almost regret it.
The Pixel 2 XL feels nowhere as premium as the S8, keep that in mind. And the screen on the S8 is gorgeous, while Pixel's is kinda crap.

I moved from the Galaxy Note8 on 22nd Dec and I haven't looked back. Don't miss anything.
Primarily did it for stock Android (I'm a former Nexus 4 and Nexus 6 owner) which I missed, prompt updates direct from Google, and better camera. The Note8 lagged, the Pixel 2 XL flies along. Also, there is no Samsung bloat (an equivalent Samsung app for everything) and, probably most importantly, there isn't a ton of Samsung background tasks constantly running.
I haven't experienced any of the reported problems with the Pixel 2 XL, with the exception of having to switch USB debugging mode in order to transfer files from a PC. Also, the blue shift is no worse than the red/pink shift on my Note8.
Between my Nexus 6 and Note8, I had a Galaxy S7 Edge for a year, which I loved, it was a great phone, but it's going to take a lot to get me away from Pixels now.

sjgore said:
I moved from the Galaxy Note8 on 22nd Dec and I haven't looked back. Don't miss anything.
Primarily did it for stock Android (I'm a former Nexus 4 and Nexus 6 owner) which I missed, prompt updates direct from Google, and better camera. The Note8 lagged, the Pixel 2 XL flies along. Also, there is no Samsung bloat (an equivalent Samsung app for everything) and, probably most importantly, there isn't a ton of Samsung background tasks constantly running.
I haven't experienced any of the reported problems with the Pixel 2 XL, with the exception of having to switch USB debugging mode in order to transfer files from a PC. Also, the blue shift is no worse than the red/pink shift on my Note8.
Between my Nexus 6 and Note8, I had a Galaxy S7 Edge for a year, which I loved, it was a great phone, but it's going to take a lot to get me away from Pixels now.
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That's all good to hear, especially as the Note is meant to be a bit faster than the S8. Think I'll go ahead and get one ordered!

I came from the S8+ to the Pixel 2XL. I don't regret it, but I definitely loved my S8+ as well. Both have their pro's and cons. In the end I prefer the Pixel 2XL tho. Everything is just so much smoother and such a nicer experience. Enjoy your Pixel! Love all the updates too!
My fiancee now has my S8+ coming from years of iPhone....she swears she'll never go back to Apple lol. I love her more now haha.

Mr Patchy Patch said:
I came from the S8+ to the Pixel 2XL. I don't regret it, but I definitely loved my S8+ as well. Both have their pro's and cons. In the end I prefer the Pixel 2XL tho. Everything is just so much smoother and such a nicer experience. Enjoy your Pixel! Love all the updates too!
My fiancee now has my S8+ coming from years of iPhone....she swears she'll never go back to Apple lol. I love her more now haha.
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They need to be freed, one person at a time

Yes I do, but then it's a new model/ experience, but on the whole it is a very smooth experience

Mr Patchy Patch said:
I came from the S8+ to the Pixel 2XL. I don't regret it, but I definitely loved my S8+ as well. Both have their pro's and cons. In the end I prefer the Pixel 2XL tho. Everything is just so much smoother and such a nicer experience. Enjoy your Pixel! Love all the updates too!
My fiancee now has my S8+ coming from years of iPhone....she swears she'll never go back to Apple lol. I love her more now haha.
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Better marry that girl! :good::good:

I moved from an S7 Edge, and I couldn't be happier. This thing BLOWS away the S7 in every aspect. No bloat, zero lag, updates as soon as they're released instead of 3 - 6 months later. The camera is amazing, even the front camera takes awesome shots. And regardless of what people on here say, the screen is great too. Maybe not quite an S8, but I put it side by side with my S7 and the Pixel screen was the winner (blue shift yes, but the s7 just went blacker). Also, you can root no problem, although I haven't yet felt the need for it. Also, you'll appreciate it several months down the road when your phone hasn't been deliberately slowed down with updates (like my S7).

Badger50 said:
Better marry that girl! :good::good:
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Every intention on it. That's why she's my fiancee lol.

Related

Pixel XL or wait for Galaxy S8?

I returned my note 7..Now im torn between getting the "new" toy on the block the pixel xl or waiting for something from samsung in feb march...i mean pixel is getting great reviews but im hearing some great specs from samsung about the galaxy s8 (4k screen snapdragon 830 etc) enhanced vr etc...
decisions decisions
I have my old note 4 for now so im not without a device...
Pixel XL now and the new Note or whatever they'll call it next year
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
furfmonkey said:
I returned my note 7..Now im torn between getting the "new" toy on the block the pixel xl or waiting for something from samsung in feb march...i mean pixel is getting great reviews but im hearing some great specs from samsung about the galaxy s8 (4k screen snapdragon 830 etc) enhanced vr etc...
decisions decisions
I have my old note 4 for now so im not without a device...
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I've been a Samsung user since the Galaxy S 2 (or should I say II? ). I've lost my confidence due to the battery issue... Still they don't seem to know the actual issue, I just can't trust them. On the other hand I always hated how they skinned their phones, their launcher is terrible. And the Android updates always took months. I'm going Pixel and not looking back now. Next year probably we'll have a Pixel 2 with similar specs as the S8 or whatever they'll call it.
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk
Get the Pixel XL used (resale value is probably pretty low), then get the S8 when it releases.
Who has the patience to wait till Feb or March. Buy what's awesome and see when S8 releases.
I just returned my note7 and picked up a cheap $200 huawei to use whileni wait for my pixel.
This phone makes remeber why i like unbloated phones. Its way faster interface wise than my note7 was, so snappy.
I considered holding out for an s8 but no way. And unbloated pixel should be way faster than even an s8 with superior cpu/gpu in real life usage.
Sent from my KIW-L24 using Tapatalk
Easy. Get the Pixel now, then get the S8 when it drops. Not enough money? Work more.
Anything from Samsung (if it does not catch fire) is filled with bloat I do not want.
But why wait for the S8 ?
I think you should wait for the Galaxy S9 .... got to be better than S8
Every six months a new device with the new latest things comes out, so if you wait for the S8 in March you might as well wait for the pixel 2 in September october 2017.. and so on..
I was in a similar quandry, quite fancied a 4K screen for VR and the next gen chips from Samsung and Qualcomm look like quite a bump, but yes still 5 months of and will be slowed down by Samsung's Android implementation, lack of updates and gimmicky but less functional edge screen with possiby with top and bottom edge. On top of that the difficulty of taking samsung phones on air planes etc and it was a no brainer. 128GB with photo and video cloud offloading should negate the need for an SD card, if not a simple OTG flash drive will be good enough. So I say go for it, go for the pixel like me, it will stay upto date alot longer then the S8 will and will have proper updates with real features.
Just saw the pixel xl at the verizon store
Its amazing
Getting it asap
I snatched a 128gb black xl. I have to say, I'm pretty smitten with it. It's no Note7, but I'll be damned if it's not better in a lot of ways. The fingerprint scanner, the overall UI, the phone dialer, overall speed, all much better. And, the really nice oled FLAT screen. It's just nice. When Note 8 comes out I'll find a way to trade up. In the meantime, I do love this Pixel.
I have the same situation too, I returned my Note7 and decided to wait for Galaxy S8. I will buy S8.
I would personally wait. I kind of wish I would have but then again development on the s8 will probably be worse than the pixel.
Pixel > Locked BL (S8)
furfmonkey said:
I have my old note 4 for now so im not without a device...
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Note 4 is a good device with good development.
If you like flashing ROM's and playing with Xposed, then stick with the N4 for a while longer.
Just IMO.
There is no Xposed for Nougat at this time.
And development for Pixel is still experiencing growing pains.
Meanwhile, you can do almost whatever you want with a Note 4 provided it's got the unlocked bootloader.
My buddy just gave up his Note 5 to go back to his Note 4.
I would still have my MotoX Pure 2015 if I knew there would be so many development issues with both Nougat *and* the Pixel.
But I do love how fast the Pixel does everything.
A person who would like to get something like an S8 or whatever should also look at the V and G series phones from LG, and other heavily modified android skins. Pixel, OnePlus aren't for them.
ithehappy said:
A person who would like to get something like an S8 or whatever should also look at the V and G series phones from LG, and other heavily modified android skins. Pixel, OnePlus aren't for them.
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Agreed. An LG V20, is probably the best bang for your buck phone out there (on Verizon anyway) and easily the most underrated phone of 2016 (well... Maybe the Moto Z?).
No thanks on the laggy Samsung phones.
Ex Note 7 user here. I have always had a much better user experience with the stock android devices (nexus, Moto x) than samsung but I tried the note 7. I loved it but it still was not fluid. I was more in love with the form factor than the operations of the device. After that I tried the OP3 and no way I will ever purchase another one plus device. Is it good for the price? yup. Does it work...nope. Random reboots while using your gps to make an appointment in downtown Boston don't really fly with me. Bought a pixel XL and I'm not looking back. Everything works as it should all the time. Battery is great and camera is too. I have not had any issues just like I had no issues with my previous Nexus devices. I will jump on the next pixel as well. I'm done with "extra features" skinned android and cheaper budget alternatives.
I'm so torn on waiting until ****ing end of april for s8 or getting the xl now. I have the note 3 rooted/rom, and I love it, so I would love to be able to root again. On the flipside, the new 835 chip supporting its own VR, 4k screen, along with improvements to camera and whatnot makes this decision very hard.

Note 7, S7E, V20 users switching to Pixel

For those of us like myself who had the Note 7, and now the S7 Edge or who have the V20 all these feature packed phones, would going to a Pixel XL be boring to us? I know the Pixel doesn't have the gimmicks like the Note, but do you consider the butter smooth software, and great camera a trade off?
Blues fan said:
For those of us like myself who had the Note 7, and now the S7 Edge or who have the V20 all these feature packed phones, would going to a Pixel XL be boring to us? I know the Pixel doesn't have the gimmicks like the Note, but do you consider the butter smooth software, and great camera a trade off?
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To be honest I love how buttery smooth the pixel xl is compared to my nexus 6p. I never use any of the fancy features that other phones have I mainly focus on performance. I've had the nexus 7, 10, 6 and 6p and would say if you want performance, come to the pixel xl. If you want fancy features, stick with your current phone
Yeah, the Pixel is VERY boring. Google basically went with iPhone ideology on this one. The only redeeming quality of the Pixel is Project FI, which is really economical for a low data user such as myself.
I almost cried a little when I put my beloved Note7 in a fire-proof box last night.
nabbed said:
Yeah, the Pixel is VERY boring. Google basically went with iPhone ideology on this one. The only redeeming quality of the Pixel is Project FI, which is really economical for a low data user such as myself.
I almost cried a little when I put my beloved Note7 in a fire-proof box last night.
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Um wouldn't go that far dude. It's still Google software. It's not that much different than the nexus experience. It's definitely no where as boring as iPhone. That's just crazy talk lol.
toknitup420 said:
Um wouldn't go that far dude. It's still Google software. It's not that much different than the nexus experience. It's definitely no where as boring as iPhone. That's just crazy talk lol.
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Fair point. Pixel XL is about as boring as Boston is compared to Vegas.
nabbed said:
Fair point. Pixel XL is about as boring as Boston is compared to Vegas.
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Hey I'm from Boston lol. Vegas is def more fun than here lol.
toknitup420 said:
Hey I'm from Boston lol. Vegas is def more fun than here lol.
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Note 7 was a hoot! Really! And I've seen them all- Nexus One, HTC Evo/4G/3D, Epic 4G Touch. Pixel is not one of them. And I use one! Sorry, and sorry!
I own the v20, s7e and pixel xl. While the pixel out of the box is plain that's not my main point of getting it it. I'm a nexus user and when I killed my 6p 4 months ago I felt lost. Got the Samsung and hate bloat and ui, then v20 came out and while it's got decent hardware I'm just not super impressed with it.
Got my pixel and haven't looked back, it is my daily driver while v20 is work phone and s7e goes to my 6 year old ha.
rustyjay said:
I own the v20, s7e and pixel xl. While the pixel out of the box is plain that's not my main point of getting it it. I'm a nexus user and when I killed my 6p 4 months ago I felt lost. Got the Samsung and hate bloat and ui, then v20 came out and while it's got decent hardware I'm just not super impressed with it.
Got my pixel and haven't looked back, it is my daily driver while v20 is work phone and s7e goes to my 6 year old ha.
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In your post, you mentioned current high-end phones - LG V20, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge and, Google Pixel XL. (Hey, I have the Pixel XL -HIGH-FIVE!) But what you didn't mention is the excitement factor- if you spend over $900 US dollars on a phone, you want something special. You better want something special, unless you are a billionaire and the leader of the Free Wor...
Never Mind!
Hey! We are both stuck with the best phone money can buy, Pixel XL. And it sucks compared to the Note 7 (which I just returned to a cold-hearted US Cellular rep who couldn't print a simpl.... Never mind!
My point is, in 2016, we are both cucked (except I didn't say cucked.) We have been robbed, and we have been had.
Instead of enjoyment of our labors, we were given the finger and a Pixel XL.
I'm going slightly mad...
nabbed said:
In your post, you mentioned current high-end phones - LG V20, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge and, Google Pixel XL. (Hey, I have the Pixel XL -HIGH-FIVE!) But what you didn't mention is the excitement factor- if you spend over $900 US dollars on a phone, you want something special. You better want something special, unless you are a billionaire and the leader of the Free Wor...
Never Mind!
Hey! We are both stuck with the best phone money can buy, Pixel XL. And it sucks compared to the Note 7 (which I just returned to a cold-hearted US Cellular rep who couldn't print a simpl.... Never mind!
My point is, in 2016, we are both cucked (except I didn't say cucked.) We have been robbed, and we have been had.
Instead of enjoyment of our labors, we were given the finger and a Pixel XL.
I'm going slightly mad...
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I'm not mad at all, I knew exactly what I was getting. Wife had the note 7 bomb and while it's a nice phone it still can't do what the unlocked pixel can. I've been building Roms for the nexus since Nexus s and all the gimmicky gadgets and bloat don't add up to the freedom this phone brings you.
I'm coming from a Galaxy S5 and I couldn't agree more! Never thought I'd say it but newer touch whiz does offer some very nice features that you don't realize until you don't have them. Kinda crazy to go from that to such a new expensive phone and not be that impressed at all. I actually think it's better to have a phone running a skinned version of Android as long as the bootloader can be unlocked. When it comes to development there are far more options then. Take the S5 for example. Most of its life we only had root. Even with just root the devs were able to do some amazing things with touch whiz. Once the bootloader got unlocked is when it got fun. We had so many options. You could install a modified TouchWiz ROM.. you could run a port from another phone.. or you could run AOSP.
I know everyone says development will pick up for this phone but you would think there would be some more action already. Even when things so start to pick up how far will it really go? We are basically limited to going back and forth between different AOSP roms which are mostly all exactly the same with minor differences throughout.
I'm on Verizon so I know my options are limited but I got this phone for only $140 and if there was another newish phone with lots of development going on I would sell it and get that.
Blues fan said:
For those of us like myself who had the Note 7, and now the S7 Edge or who have the V20 all these feature packed phones, would going to a Pixel XL be boring to us? I know the Pixel doesn't have the gimmicks like the Note, but do you consider the butter smooth software, and great camera a trade off?
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Let me put it this way.
All the "features" "gimmicks" them others gotta put in their phones because otherwise they'd be slow craptastic shooters.
I miss nothing those other phones have, none of the gimmicks. I enjoy and use my pixel xl way more than my previous phones. Thats just imho, YMMV
As for something special for $900, it's the latest greatest Google hype train, if you ain't got one or you're still waiting on your delivery, you just ain't in... you get to say you had Google's first phone, you're a pioneer, living on the edge, avant-garde, first with daydream vr, first to use assistant, even though she doesn't do much now. Basically.
rustyjay said:
I'm not mad at all, I knew exactly what I was getting. Wife had the note 7 bomb and while it's a nice phone it still can't do what the unlocked pixel can. I've been building Roms for the nexus since Nexus s and all the gimmicky gadgets and bloat don't add up to the freedom this phone brings you.
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Your "Wife" had the "note bomb," didn't she?
And that bomb couldn't do, STILL couldn't do, what my unlocked Pixel could?
Do you truly believe that?
nabbed said:
Your "Wife" had the "note bomb," didn't she?
And that bomb couldn't do, STILL couldn't do, what my unlocked Pixel could?
Do you truly believe that?
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Absolutely
rustyjay said:
Absolutely
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We have a wonderful phone, don't we?!
The xl is good but three things I'm not impressed with. It's too big compared to the g4 with the same screen. It's too slippery in the hand. If the bottom bezel was smaller at least you could teach around the screen without losing the phone. The camera is not as good as the g4, though it is pretty good.
Things I love. Developer phone! (I have the Google one) fast updates.
aholeinthewor1d said:
I'm coming from a Galaxy S5 and I couldn't agree more! Never thought I'd say it but newer touch whiz does offer some very nice features that you don't realize until you don't have them. Kinda crazy to go from that to such a new expensive phone and not be that impressed at all. I actually think it's better to have a phone running a skinned version of Android as long as the bootloader can be unlocked. When it comes to development there are far more options then. Take the S5 for example. Most of its life we only had root. Even with just root the devs were able to do some amazing things with touch whiz. Once the bootloader got unlocked is when it got fun. We had so many options. You could install a modified TouchWiz ROM.. you could run a port from another phone.. or you could run AOSP.
I know everyone says development will pick up for this phone but you would think there would be some more action already. Even when things so start to pick up how far will it really go? We are basically limited to going back and forth between different AOSP roms which are mostly all exactly the same with minor differences throughout.
I'm on Verizon so I know my options are limited but I got this phone for only $140 and if there was another newish phone with lots of development going on I would sell it and get that.
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I came from S5 as well and am definitely missing all the custom roms right now. The TouchWiz based roms were OK but there is always something that is just ugly with TouchWiz that can't be changed and that drives me nuts. I am excited to get some custom roms on the Pixel XL that actually keep the quality of the camera. That was always a trade-off with AOSP based roms on the S5.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA Labs
I've had mutiple Samsung's, HTC and nexuses. Beside the notes s pen, which I didn't use, what can those phones do that a pixel cant? Either with stock or custom ROM. Secondly, a nexus boring? The reason I came back to a nexus is cause all those other phones are boring. If you think a nexus is boring, you need to dive a little deeper into XDA and learn about the things a nexus can do...far from boring
Had a note 7 replaced my Nexus 6 with it. Was a great phone replaced it with the pixel xl and it's not boring but I didn't use a lot of the Samsung gimmicky stuff. I missed not have bloat when I got the note 7. My wife has the v20 not my thing and the s7e is basically the note 7 with no pen. So if you are looking for a change get the pixel. BTW it is faster and smoother then any of the other phones. Like the Nexus line it will be updated to the latest version of Android first
I came from note 7 which was great. I only miss water resistant and the pen. This phone feels a lot faster, plus I like that I can do multi screen with Netflix. The battery is good enough for me. Camera is great. I don't have much to complain about. Those 3 things outweighs the missing features since it's my main 3 things I look for in a phone. Plus pure android.... I dislike apple

Would you buy a Pixel 2 XL again?

I am looking at selling or trading in my Samsung S7 Edge in order to get something with a larger screen. I have had the Samsung almost 2 years now, no problems with it, I just prefer something larger and more sturdy feeling (previously had a Note 3). I have been looking at moving to Project Fi and therefore getting a Pixel 2XL, however the number of issues the phones have is pretty concerning.
Both the S7 Edge and Note 3 gave me no problems at all, so seeing a list of a dozen different problems that can affect the 2XL is concerning. If you were to be buying another phone tomorrow, would you get a 2XL again? or knowing how unreliable they can be get something else? I realize not every phone is going to be affected, but it seems like a lot of issues.
I also came from an S7 Edge, which is a great phone. The Pixel 2 XL is just better. If you can afford it, get it. It is just a joy to play with. I personally have no problems with the display. There is a hint of blue when looking at the screen from an angle, but that is just no reason to not buy this phone imho. I find the display to be great. Love it. Stability and responsiveness are top notch. You don't have to worry about tripping knox when unlocking and flashing, and the stereo front speakers are just amazing. Wireless charging would have been nice though.
Yes I would, just because I love stock Android and I haven't experienced any issues with my device. Even if you do have issues, I think Google extended the standard one year warranty to two years so you should be safe in that regard.
Most definitely! Unless there was a reincarnation of the Nexus!!
Without a doubt. I bought the 2XL and returned it a couple days later only to buy it again.
I was coming from the s8+ which is a great phone but side by side to a pixel 2 xl, its laggy and the interface is rough.
Pixel 2 XL is smooth... very smooth.
naiku said:
I am looking at selling or trading in my Samsung S7 Edge in order to get something with a larger screen. I have had the Samsung almost 2 years now, no problems with it, I just prefer something larger and more sturdy feeling (previously had a Note 3). I have been looking at moving to Project Fi and therefore getting a Pixel 2XL, however the number of issues the phones have is pretty concerning.
Both the S7 Edge and Note 3 gave me no problems at all, so seeing a list of a dozen different problems that can affect the 2XL is concerning. If you were to be buying another phone tomorrow, would you get a 2XL again? or knowing how unreliable they can be get something else? I realize not every phone is going to be affected, but it seems like a lot of issues.
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Yes. Battery life and updates much better than mate 9. Love the screen ratio. Wasn't sure I would.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
I love this phone but my wife is not any more impressed with it than her S8+. She upgraded from her S7 edge about the same time I went from a nexus 6P to the 2xl. She can't really see anything this has that she doesn't have on hers. The battery lasts all day for either of us and the SOC is actually pretty much neck and neck every day we compare. To be honest, it's really about whether you dig stock Android and the ability to root and modify stuff. Myself, I left Samsung after the S5 as that was the last one to be really be in the game. I'll never go back. Went to a N6 then 6p and now this. I could not be happier with the phone and am happy to see the scene heating up!
Had Samsung for years prior to the Pixel 2 XL. Can never go back now. Stock android is a joy to use, and this camera is phenomenal. Plus ability to root and customize, it's a no brainer
I've owned every single Samsung phone since the Galaxy Vibrant. I would have considered myself to be a Fanboy. I have my S8+ still. Have not touched it since I have gotten this device. This is my first stock Android device, and I have to say it's pretty damn amazing out of the box. I caught myself just scrolling through the menus to watch the smooth transitions, the lack of lag and stutter is really surprising. I can totally tell what people are talking about when they talk about TouchWiz or the Samsung experience. The screen. I ordered this phone and cancelled my preorder at least 5 times. I hadb the device in hand and was watching all the horror stories everybody is talking about. I found myself looking for every single flaw everybody was experiencing instead of enjoying this device. I ended up returning it with buyers remorse. I had the 64gb version and I forgot the protection package. I kept up on the stories but I found myself really regretting returning it. I bought my black 128gb model and told myself to stay away from the forums and just use the device and see how I feel about it without all the negative buzz. Just using it in daily driver tasks. I not only going myself to really enjoying the display. It's not as Vibrant or over saturated. But I've actually found myself keeping it on the stock settings. Iv also can't believe I forgot up mention battery life... This thing goes on forever. The battery life is so much better than my S8+. I can't imagine how much better that it would be to your S7 Edge. The way I look at it. Samsung is like a Ferrari of cell phones with a bad tune. Amazing car looks great, feels great, but if can't go a whole day without refilling the tank then what's the deal? The 2XL may not look like a cutting edge device, but the tune and the milage sure take it places. I not only would buy this phone again for myself. But I'm looking into getting one for my girlfriend as well. She is hating her S8+. Hopefully this gives you some perspective. I say go for it. You got nothing to lose except a super Vibrant over saturated display.
I will tell you I am on my 6th or 7th pixel for various issues I have lost count and I still want it! Battery is great, camera is unreal, software is fine everything is fine but little blue tint to screen that you wont notice after a few days/week. I just had to get my last replacement XL in and I get bored with the note 8 the pixel is just special and I havent rooted one yet
Yes
Absolutely! Best out there. Is it perfect? No but it comes close. Excellent battery life, camera, quick and smooth. I got the 128gb and for the 1st time I don't miss the lack of sdcard slot.
Would prefer headphone jack, louder ring and notification volume but as I said, I will settle for not quite perfect.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
In all honesty the phone does have its issues that are on on the hardware end. More so the screen having blue tint. If this doesn't bother you then this device would be amazing for you. If you want the fastest updates you don't have much of a choice but to go with google. However new phones will be out in a months time so you might be better off waiting
I came from S8+ which I considered a great device. But I have to quote someone before me: "Samsung is Ferrari among phones, but with a very bad tune."
Can't agree more! So I ditched S8+ with zero regret.
Absolutely! :victory:
Coming from the 6p, the P2XL was a logical upgrade for me, especially since I enjoy rooting and modding my device. My wife has an S8+ While I will agree it has a beautiful screen and superb build quality, I absolutely can't stand TW and some of the lag I've seen on it. It's great for my Mrs, but not my cup of tea. I have zero regrets about the P2XL. It's fast, fluid, easy to theme with root and substratum, and a piece of cake to upgrade when the monthly updates come out. So yes, I'd definitely purchase it again ??
Came from a 6p and multiple nexus's before that, really like the Pixel 2 XL (my second one at least, the first one was horrible blue shift). Biggest disappointment so far is lack of developer/rom support, its kinda shockingly minimal after being used to the Nexus dev community. (also i still think it was priced too high)
Not the best time to buy. Just wait a month as new devices are being released
dieselhazza said:
Not the best time to buy. Just wait a month as new devices are being released
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Yeah If your interested in the S9 G7 or the like. I doubt thats what the OP is interested in. I'm not anyways. No Pixel or OnePlus type developer phones for another 9 months or so....
Sure I would. I love it, and- despite rumours- it works great.

S8+ to Pixel 2 XL?

Was considering the leap. I had the Moto X Pure prior to the S8+ and I miss the front facing speakers....not sure if it's worth the trouble though....
Any thoughts?
I've been able to play with the S8+ a lot, my ex-had it. In my personal opinion, I'd take the Pixel 2 XL over that phone any day. It's just my two cents.
Been there, done that! The Pixel XL 2 is the best device I've had going into 2018!
i couple of people at work work have the s8+ - and let's just say I'm glad I have my penguin
I miss flashing too. I had a ton of freedom on the Moto X Pure. Moving to the S8+ and all of it's restrictions has been tough. I think the S8+ is a beautiful phone but too locked down for this flashaholic. I'm assuming the whole "screen" issue with the Pixel 2 is negligible?
I had the S8+ before. The quality of the device was more premium but the software on the S8+ sucked. I just hated Bixby, the half baked iris scanner and the bloated software in general. I never used any of the Samsung-specific apps like calendar, health, music...For me they are just redundant apps. Glad to have a pure Android again.
While it's not the S8+, prior to owning my 2XL I had an S8 for about 4 months.
- The S8 (and S8+) screen is considerably more crisp, with better clarity and better colors.
- Wireless charging with the S8 is something I miss every single day.
- Touchwiz has become surprisingly great. Over my 4 months of usage, the phone never lagged/stuttered once.
But...
- The front facing speakers on the 2XL are fantastic.
- The fingerprint reader on the 2XL is placed in a MUCH better spot.
- The 2XL camera is notably better in every day usage.
While I do miss some things from the S8, I have no regrets about switching to the 2XL. Especially because even though Touchwiz is perfectly snappy these days, you still can't beat the smoothness and overall feel of pure Android on the 2XL.
Man, I REALLY appreciate the feedback so far. This is def making my decision easier. My S8+ is Mint condition so it shouldn't be much of an investment switching. I'm a HUGE fan of Swappa. It's been years since I've bought a "brand new" phone. I was originally leaning towards the V30 but that idea totally faded. Rumors are around that the S9 will have dual speakers, BUT...... obviously still too locked down.
My S8+ just got shipped out today to it's new owner. I couldn't be happier. I wouldn't say the Samsung has "better" colors. It's just more saturated and I'm sure we all appreciate that in Samsung devices. But this phone amazing. I said it in another thread. My S8+ was like a Ferrari with a bad tune. Make it look pretty and go fast, and put all these Bells and whistles on it. But the tune is bad your milage is going to tank and it leads to lag. This phone may not be the most aesthetically pleasing. But its got the same internals. I never used to understand why people complained about lag in Samsung phones until I tried my pixel. I'm not sure if I'll go back lol.
MacTheRipperr said:
My S8+ just got shipped out today to it's new owner. I couldn't be happier. I wouldn't say the Samsung has "better" colors. It's just more saturated and I'm sure we all appreciate that in Samsung devices. But this phone amazing. I said it in another thread. My S8+ was like a Ferrari with a bad tune. Make it look pretty and go fast, and put all these Bells and whistles on it. But the tune is bad your milage is going to tank and it leads to lag. This phone may not be the most aesthetically pleasing. But its got the same internals. I never used to understand why people complained about lag in Samsung phones until I tried my pixel. I'm not sure if I'll go back lol.
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Welcome to the Dark Side young Obiwan!??
Yeah hands down this is the best phone i've owned. The "problems" everyone is talking about I would guess 75% of the people who talk about them would have never noticed them or made a big deal if they didnt read reviews on it
djcrystals said:
I was originally leaning towards the V30 but that idea totally faded. Rumors are around that the S9 will have dual speakers, BUT...... obviously still too locked down.
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I had a V30 for 3 weeks when it was first released on T-Mobile. Sadly, thanks to LGs meddling in Android's smooth and simple user experience, the phone is garbage.
The hardware is great, it has wireless charging, and the phone has excellent 'in hand' feel. But the UI ruins the whole experience. No matter how much myself, and many others in the V30 sub forum, tried to de-bloat the phone, it still lagged and stuttered constantly in normal usage.
The amount of unnecessary, redundant background services that LG added into the OS on the V30 is mind boggling. Also, the camera is just "OK" compared to my S8 and 2 XL. And there is no unlocking/rooting the carrier locked versions of the V30. So custom AOSP ROMs are out of the question for that phone.
It's such a shame because the phone had such great potential and I'd even argue that if that V30 just had simple, untouched, pure Android it would be just as good as the 2XL, substituting wireless charging for the best in class camera and dual front facing speakers for better in hand feel.
That is sad to hear about the V30. I was super pumped reading about it prior to its release. Thanks for the info @sn0warmy. I make a habit of checking past and possibly future phones and their dedicated threads here on XDA. It is fun to see where all the action is. There are most def some dedicated people working on the Snapdragon S8+/S8 forums but you can sense some frustration when it comes to the limitations being imposed by the carriers. What REALLY sucks is you are intertwined with the international version folks whom have the ability to unlock and use custom recovery. Of course, that's the case with many of the phones nowadays. Anyhew, I am def excited to be jumping ship here and switching units. You guys have def help increased my excitement level.
I have the note 8 & pixel 2 XL. Both have pros & cons.
Pixel camera is better
Pixel Battery is better
Pixel speakers are better
Note has wireless charging
Note has spen
Note screen is better
They are close I feel but pixel is my daily driver for the time being
This threads Pixel XL 2 pro's are music to my ears!
While the S8+ was an absolute fantastic phone, I gave it to my fiancee and bought the Pixel 2XL and haven't looked back. Either phone is fantastic tho. Happier with my P2XL.
Pulled the trigger today and ordered one. Thanks again for the feedback. It made my decision to switch quite simple.
djcrystals said:
Pulled the trigger today and ordered one. Thanks again for the feedback. It made my decision to switch quite simple.
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Awesome! What color did you get?? You'll have to let us know what you think when it comes in!
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
oneandroidnut said:
Awesome! What color did you get?? You'll have to let us know what you think when it comes in!
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
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I got black. I had a really hard time trying to explain to my wife why it is I'm switching since we just bought the S8+s...... she's always been a die-hard Sammy fan though. I haven't been dedicated to any brand. I just prefer there to be some freedom when it comes to hackability. So, I'll be around, permanently, next week.
djcrystals said:
I got black. I had a really hard time trying to explain to my wife why it is I'm switching since we just bought the S8+s...... she's always been a die-hard Sammy fan though. I haven't been dedicated to any brand. I just prefer there to be some freedom when it comes to hackability. So, I'll be around, permanently, next week.
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yeah Samsung doesn't allow for that anymore! I remember the days of the developer note boy was it amazing!

Pixel XL 2 Vs Galaxy S9+

Well I will have my S9+ on Monday (will it dethrone my pixel as my daily?) Will take some effort as this device is fantastic :good:
So with that said if anyone might be interested outwith review videos & looking for the user comparison then I'm in a position to compare the two.
My obvious main focus (pardon the pun) is to test the camera's and see how they compare.
But open to suggestions as to what else you might like to see?
No I'm not going to drop test or set it on fire
I have a feeling that it will be in last place rotation with my 5T, iPhone X and my daily Pixel XL 2, but it may surprise me in terms of we know how great the display is and if it can really be as GREAT as the pixel in the camera department.
Let me know though and I'll be happy to test and compare.
I wouldn't personally give up on the pixel device as it is a better performer overall. Plus instant updates are a great.
Oh I'm not getting rid of my pixel hmm until the pixel 3 is released :silly:
Duncan1982 said:
Oh I'm not getting rid of my pixel hmm until the pixel 3 is released :silly:
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Agreed. Lets just hope they let us theme the darn thing!! ?
Badger50 said:
Agreed. Lets just hope they let us theme the darn thing!! ?
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I will never be without a Pixel device now, having stayed away from Stock android since the Nexus 5 (As I was more into skins) at the time, I didn't quite get what all the fuss was about fast forward to the Pixel XL 2 yeah I get it (took me a while) but now I truly get it and love it, just an annoyance that Google are restricting theming with Android P........
Duncan1982 said:
I will never be without a Pixel device now, having stayed away from Stock android since the Nexus 5 (As I was more into skins) at the time, I didn't quite get what all the fuss was about fast forward to the Pixel XL 2 yeah I get it (took me a while) but now I truly get it and love it, just an annoyance that Google are restricting theming with Android P........
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Couldn't agree more. I've been running dark themes since my DINC days! Themeing is one of my favorite things about android. Now I fear G may be taking all that away. I sure hope not though! ?
I was so tempted by the S9+ (switching from the Oneplus 5T) that I even preordered it. But after some research (happy to be corrected here if needed) regarding project treble, I was under the impression that the amazing camera features may not be available in an AOSP rom. The build quality of Samsung phones are very good and I was really pleased to hear of its project treble capabilities. But I ended up selling my 5T and getting the Pixel and couldn't be happier
Yeah they might introduce their own brand of theming (but that will suck,) and still be restrictive, I really don't get why white has and must be the standard colour,
This is more annoying when there is a shift to most OEM's using oled displays.
So why is there a refusal by Google to allow us to theme when we and they know that there are significant advantages for the user to use dark themes, battery life & getting rid of EVERYTHING being white which obviously impacts on that.
This is my only real gripe and its obviously just became recent with Android P, maybe they will think twice about that unwanted move.
cd993 said:
I was so tempted by the S9+ (switching from the Oneplus 5T) that I even preordered it. But after some research (happy to be corrected here if needed) regarding project treble, I was under the impression that the amazing camera features may not be available in an AOSP rom. The build quality of Samsung phones are very good and I was really pleased to hear of its project treble capabilities. But I ended up selling my 5T and getting the Pixel and couldn't be happier
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I was going to cancel my S9+ order but I went ahead hmm more for testing and comparing ok ok & feeding my addiction (there I said it).
You my friend made a very sensible decision as much as the S9+ does pack a punch with Design & Display and offers up some great additions IP68, SD Card Expansion, Fast charging & Wireless, it really covers most area's. But honestly it can't touch the pixel for a device that is just an absolute pleasure to use. I wondered to myself after owning 30+ devices over 4 years, what is it with Stock Android? Like I said I had the Nexus 5.
What it is "Simplicity " not iOS simplicity but that none the less, its smooth like no other, its the little things like notifications replies, to the the whole UI (other than it being white) its the updates, and there is a nice vibe to it, and what about that camera :good:
Yes I am also interested in project treble and seeing if that speeds up updates with Samsung (Not holding my breath) if it doesn't then its my last ever Samsung. No excuses now
Glad like me you love the pixel & at the same time unlike me and saved your money :laugh:
I'd be interested to see how the S9+ holds up after a few months of use, and how good the Front facing camera is. For me, the curved screen is a no go with Galaxies now, I just cannot get used to them.
S8+ and Note 8 shows significant lag and stutter unless you use the built in optimiser but then because it clears the temp and cache files, that means you have to load back in all your photo thumbnails etc when you load the apps.
With the Selfie camera, as much as people may hate it, it is great for groufies when out with friends and Samsung Front facing cameras almost always suck. Compared to the absolutely amazing pixel 2 front facer, I am unsure that the S9 will compete.
I think the quality of the F2.4 lens will be sharper than the Pixel 2, but I bet any kind of movement will blur again in anything less than optimal light, like most galaxies, which doesn't occur on Pixel.
Look forward to your thoughts and I hope you enjoy the S9+.
It will be interesting to compare, but I'll be waiting on the next Pixel XL 3 badboy! Cheers
Oh I WILL be getting the Pixel 3 XL..... And I will compare that to, although I still believe the pixel XL2 will still kick Samsungs ass in the camera department :good:

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