Sony Xperia Z3+ review
It’s no secret that Sony has a had a tough go of it in the smartphone market, even giving rise to rumors of Sony withdrawing from the smartphone game entirely. A categorical denial of this rumor was followed up by the launch of the company’s latest flagship, the Sony Xperia Z4, in Japan. The device saw its global launch with a change in designation in tow, while otherwise completely identical to the original.
Does Sony manage to step up with their latest flagship offering? We find out, in this Sony Xperia Z3+ review!
Design
At first glance, you’d be hard pressed to find a whole lot different between this device and its predecessor, the Xperia Z3. It is slightly thinner and lighter than the latter, but the difference isn’t discernible easily. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as Sony devices do have some the best designs around, despite the way they tend to feel in the hand.
The phone’s exterior has everything you’d expect to find, with the buttons and ports in the usual places. Most of the buttons offer a nice, solid tactile feedback, apart from the standby button, which has a sense of looseness to it. Of note is the dedicated camera shutter button, which is always a much appreciated addition, and something we surprisingly don’t see enough of. Simply put, it changes the way you use the phone to take pictures, and what’s best, is that a half press can be used to focus, which is brilliant.
Sony’s signature design language and build quality returns with the Xperia Z3+, with its sharp and angular looks with slightly rounded corners and sides. Love it or hate it, this is a style that is very unique to Sony, and feels unlike much else. As far as the construction is concerned, the body contains a metal trim, but the retention of a glass back remains a questionable one. There’s no denying that the device looks great of course, but the use of glass means that there is a higher risk of damaging the device from accidental drops and bumps, further alleviated by the fact the glass makes for a very slippery device. You have to be very careful about the device slipping out of your hand, and even off of some flat surfaces.
Depending on what kind of device size you’re used to, the Xperia Z3+ can feel quite compact, with its angular design and thin profile lending to an awkward handling experience. The device falls within the realm of comfortable one-handed use as far as the size is concerned, but you then do have to be extra careful to avoid it slipping out of your hand. The other slight oddity comes with regards to the SIM card tray. Getting it out involves yanking it out using your fingernails, and if you tend to keep your nails trim, you may have a tough time with it, requiring you to depend on using a pin.
Display
The Sony Xperia Z3+ retains the same display as its predecessor, featuring a 5.2-inch IPS LCD display with a 1080p resolution, resulting in a pixel density of 424 ppi. The panel covers 130% of the sRGB spectrum, according to Sony, courtesy of their Triluminos technology. The display also comes with the X-Reality engine, that analyzes the image and adds contrast, saturation, sharpness, and more. This can help enhance the display viewing experience, but I did find it to get a little heavy handed.
Performance
Under the hood, the Sony Xperia Z3+ packs an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor, clocked at 2 GHz, and backed by the Adreno 430 GPU and 3 GB of RAM. As far as the performance is concerned, things remain as good as you’d expect from a current generation Android flagship. The device flies through the various elements of the UI, opening, closing, and switching between applications is smooth and snappy, multi-tasking is a breeze, and the device handles gaming incredibly well.
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In my usage, the phone never skipped a bit, but unfortunately, there has been one standout issue as far as performance is concerned, and that is with regards to overheating. The overheating issues with the Snapdragon 810 are well documented, but it is disappointing to see that there isn’t a fix of some sort in place yet. Just browsing the net resulted in the device getting uncomfortably warm, but doing something strenuous results in very high temperatures of close to 70 degrees celsius.
Hardware
The Xperia Z3+ comes with 32 GB of on-board storage, which is further expandable via microSD card by up to 128 GB. The device also comes with the standard suite of connectivity options, including 4G LTE support, but it is recommended to check for compatibility with your network carrier before picking up the phone.
Of course, one of the highlights of the Xperia flagship line is the protection level it affords users with its IP68 rating, which means that apart from being resistant to dust, the device is water resistant, and can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for as long as 30 minutes, without a negative effect on performance.
Sony is one of the very few manufacturers who also pay attention to audio, which is also featured with the Xperia Z3+, with its support for high-res audio. Basically, this allows for support of high-resolution audio formats that are encoded and sampled at a higher rate. There are various audio enhancers such as Clear Audio+, surround sound effects, and a plugin to help compressed audio sound as good as hi-res audio. However, it is okay to stay away from these, as they do tend to change the sound stage a little too much. Besides the HTC One series, the Sony Xperia Z3+ is one of the best devices I’ve used for audio.
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The Xperia Z3+ packs a large 2,930 mAh battery, but the battery doesn’t impress quite as much. With heavy use, the device struggles to last a full day, and allows for around 3 hours of screen-on time. With lighter use, the battery life can be pushed to a full day, and maybe even further. There are a few battery saving features baked in, but it does cut down on the smartphone experience quite a lot, and is only something you can rely on in an emergency.
Camera
Nowadays, we all tend to end up using our phones as our primary imaging device, and as such, smartphones with a great camera experience are usually the preferred choice for a lot of users. The Sony Xperia Z3+ retains the same camera hardware as previous generations, with its 20.7 MP rear shooter with an Exmor RS sensor. Technical details aside, taking photos with this device is a dream, courtesy of the dedicated camera shutter button with its half press to focus function.
Looking at the images though, the quality isn’t going to blow you out of the water. Photos look good in adequate light, but things fall apart completely in poor lighting conditions, or when you zoom in. However, the color reproduction is accurate, and there doesn’t seem to be too much post-processing going on. Detail is impressive in well-lit shots, and the camera doesn’t continuously hunt for focus.
The camera software is one of the better implementations I’ve used, and is light years ahead when compared to stock Android. There is a manual mode available for both images and videos which includes some, but not a whole lot, of controls for adjustment. There are a few novelty modes available like AR, Sound Photo, Timeshift video, and more, which are fun to use and easily accessible for those who want it. A software-based image stabilization is available, called Steady Shot, which also works really well.
The Xperia Z3+ is capable of recording video in 4K, which is a fantastic feature to have, but unfortunately doesn’t work very often, because of the overheating issues with the device. Recording in 4K recorded at most around 20 seconds before the camera shut down automatically to help the device cool down.
Software
While everything the Sony Xperia Z3+ has to offer can be considered at par with the current crop of flagship smartphones, what makes Sony devices stand out in general is when it comes to the software experience. The best thing about using a phone from Sony is the integration across all of its services, which has been taken to a whole other level following the introduction of the PlayStation integration.
Custom applications like Music, Video, Social Life, and more, are all great, but one that I’m quite fond of is Lifelog. What this essentially does is catalogs and quantifies your day, and if you let it, it will give you data ranging from your calories and step count, to even how much time you’ve spent socializing, watching tv, and more. In typical Sony fashion though, the app doesn’t go as deep as it could, and there’s not a lot of information regarding how everything actually works.
If you have a PlayStation 4, you’ll definitely appreciate the inclusion of Remote Play, which allows you to use your phone to stream games. It works decently over a good Wi-Fi connection, even if playing first person shooters isn’t recommended. Making the experience even better is the ability to pair your DualShock controller with your phone, which is fantastic inclusion that is obviously unmatched by any other device.
All of this is wrapped in Sony’s minimalistic UI on top of Android 5.0.2 Lollipop, which makes for a very smooth and snappy software experience. Some features are available though, such as the gesture based Smart Call, that lets you answer a call by bringing it up to your ear, flip to silence, a theme engine, a customizable app drawer, and a lot more, which can prove to be very useful.
Specifications
| Display | 5.2 inch IPS LCD Full HD, 424 ppi |
| Processor | 2.0 GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 Adreno 430 GPU |
| Storage | 32GB, expandable via microSD up to 128 GB |
| RAM | 3 GB |
| Networks | Cat 6 (300Mbps DL, 50Mbps UL) |
| Software | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop |
| Camera | 20.7 MP rear camera with LED flash 5.1 MP front-facing camera |
| Battery | 2,930 mAh |
| Dimensions | 146 x 72 x 6.9 mm 144 grams |
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Pricing and final thoughts
The Xperia Z3+ is currently available in various markets around the world, and has recently made its way to the US, available on Amazon for around $710, even though that price does tend to fluctuate.
So there you have it for this in-depth look at the Sony Xperia Z3+! Nowadays, it takes quite a lot to push a high-end smartphone to another level without doing completely different. Unfortunately, Sony may not do as well as the other Android OEMs out there, and that is really a shame, since there are quite a few die-hard fans of Sony devices. Their products are fantastic, but they just don’t seem to appeal to the mass market. That is something they can capitalize on though by catering to the niche market, by focusing on features such as audio, and the IP certification. There are some issues with this device, but it is nothing that cannot be fixed by future software updates, so if you are invested in the Sony ecosystem, then this phone could be great for you.
Andoer 5W Bluetooth 3.0 Speaker review
W
hen I got the chance to spend some time with this Andoer Bluetooth speaker, I imagined I’d get it out of the box and wear that awkward frown we’ve all made when let down by the over promise/under deliver marketing philosophy lots of third-party accessory manufacturers seem to live by. I’m happy to say that I was wrong! This little Bluetooth unit is the real deal, bubba.
Pitched as a companion for bathrooms, beaches or bike rides, the Andoer boasts a water-resistant, shockproof and dustproof body. The form factor is convenient and the build quality feels better than what I expected for under $20. Anybody who has operated a bicycle with headphones on knows the sense of detachment from one’s surroundings that accompanies most earbuds. With the included seat post clamp, this unit becomes a must-buy for avid cyclists in need of tunes that won’t impair their awareness. You’ll be able to hear the road and still enjoy that new Fetty Wap.
Sound quality was massively impressive. I did not expect such a powerful decibel level from a speaker unit with a circumference smaller than most Black & White cookies. This baby is loud and clear. The included suction cup mount turned a routine shower into a suds-filled dance party. While I’d recommend taking it easy on busting moves in a slippery tub, you will not want to go back to bathing in silence after using the Andoer Bluetooth speaker.
I found the battery life to be completely serviceable and about on-par with its competitors. I was able to get a couple solid hours of playback before needing to charge it via the USB port. I will warn you, the suction cup is difficult to remove from the wall. Perhaps this is just my experience on tile but be careful as it’s probably stronger than you are.
Overall, I loved this little guy. If we were talking about a $75 or $50 piece of hardware, I could probably find some faults but at just $17.66 there is not a complaint I can imagine anyone having. Powerful audio, convenient size and an affordable price make the Andoer 5W Bluetooth Speaker a bonafide winner in my book.
Shop for the Andoer 5W Bluetooth 3.0 Speaker on Amazon
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1byone 4-port USB 3.0 aluminium hub [Review]
The 1byone 4-port USB 3.0 hub provides an attractive way to add three more USB 3.0 ports to your computer.
Setup
The hub is really easy to get setup. The hub is plug and play which meas that you can just plug it into your USB port and you are good to go!
There is also a velcro strip that you can use to stick your new shiny USB hub to some surface in order to keep it from moving around.
One strip attaches to the hub itself and another strip attaches to wherever you want.
Then you can velcro your hub into a single place so that it isn’t sliding around on your desk.
In my case, I have the velcro strip in the center of my laptop lid. I don’t actually have a desktop computer, so placing the hub in the middle of the lid allows me to open and close the laptop without any problems while leaving the hub attached and plugged in.
After you decide where you want to stick your velcro, that is it! The hub is plug-and-play. There isn’t anything special to it. You just plug it into an open USB port (preferably 3.0) and carry on with your life.
The only thing about the setup is that I wish it were clearer what the velcro was for. I didn’t even realize that it was velcro at first. I thought it was just a double-sided strip of 3M adhesive.
Usage
There isn’t really anything special to mention about the usage. It is basically like adding three USB ports to your computer. Nothing fancy.
In my usage, there haven’t been any significant speed drops or declines in power output.
Flash drives and other external storage perform just as well without any issues.
There haven’t been any complications to arise in the couple of weeks that I have been using the hub, and I seriously doubt that you will have any issues using the hub as well.
Build Quality
The build quality actually surprised me. In truth, I wasn’t expecting much from a $13 hub. The hub itself is aluminum. It feels nice and solid and looks great too.
The cable is thicker than I would have guessed. It is thicker than a standard microUSB cable but just skinnier than a laptop charger cable. The cable is long enough to give you some leeway, but it is short enough to where it doesn’t get in the way.
The best part is the USB ports themselves. There is no wiggling around in the ports. When you slide in a USB memory stick or a cable, it stays in place. On most USB ports, my stuff wiggles around and occasionally gets disconnected.
This is really annoying with my mouse’s nano receiver. Right in the middle of an FPS, the receiver will disconnect and leave me high and dry.
Now, the nano receiver sits in the hub, and the hub’s USB fits into my laptop’s USB port without the wiggling that other USB devices would have in the same port.
Usefulness
Okay, Cooper, this is great and all, but why would I want this?
Great question, I am glad you asked!
The 1byone USB 3.0 hub is great if you have limited ports and they are all tied down by other gadgets. On my laptop, I have a grand total of three ports.
One port houses my mouse nano receiver. Another holds the receiver for my keyboard.
With this hub, you are suddenly able to utilize more ports despite all of your fancy wireless gizmos!
Another great use is for those laptops that only have one USB 3.0 port. If you want to use more than one device at 3.0 speeds, this is the only way to do it.
The hub will give you four USB 3.0 ports instead of the one allowing you to use more devices at 3.0 speeds instead of 2.0.
Wrap Up
All things considered, the 4-port USB 3.0 hub is worth it.
Currently for less than $13 on Amazon, I don’t see any reason not to grab it!
Even if you don’t have that many lifetime USB port hoggers, you will still get some use out of this port. It comes in handy when you get extra productive and your storage devices won’t even be slowed down thanks to the USB 3.0 standards.
Sure, there are other options on Amazon, for cheaper too. However, those options don’t offer the same sleek appearance or are more pricey.
The post 1byone 4-port USB 3.0 aluminium hub [Review] appeared first on AndroidGuys.
Record and share audio with Parrot Voice Recorder
If you have read any of my previous reviews, you’ll know that I love simplicity. Parrot Voice Recorder delivers that simplicity in spades. In this review, we’ll be taking a look at what makes Parrot Voice Recorder an exceptional app for recording audio.
Parrot Voice Recorder overview
When you first open Parrot Voice Recorder, you’re greeted by a large microphone shaped icon at the bottom of the screen. Immediately it’s apparent what is needed to get started. Push the button.
As soon as the button is pressed, a counter begins and a display that represents the sound level appears. Your microphone icon disappears and 2 icons take its place. The first is a pause button so that if you’re taking notes and you don’t want to record the moments of silence that permeate the air while you’re thinking of what to say, you can pause the recording. The other is a stop button.
Once you select the stop button, you’ll be greeted with a screen that gives you the option to save the recording. Here you can assign a file name to the recording and select from 2 post save options. The first is to play the recording and yes, you must save the recording in order to listen to it. The second is to share the recording. This will bring up a list of supported apps and services that you can use to share your newly created audio file.
If you don’t wish to save the file, then simply select your back button and the recording’s 1s and 0s will vanish. It’s important to note that once you do this, you cannot recover that file and the app is kind enough to warn you of such.
If you would like to go back and re-listen or share a previous recording, there are tabs along the top of the screen that will allow you to do that.
This app, while simple, has a lot of configurable options and somehow, they were intuitively placed for easy selection.
Available options to select:
- Quality presets that range from low quality to ultra high quality
- Auto Pause
- Automatic gain control
- Noise suppression
- Echo cancellation
- Custom gain selection
- Playback bass boost
- Playback volume boost
- Playback reverb presets
Parrot Voice Recorder setup
Aside from downloading the app from Google Play, there really is no setup needed for this app.
Who will enjoy Parrot Voice Recorder
If you have a need to record audio, whether it be for notes, to send voice messages to your friends, or just for fun, then you will love this app. Personally, I can see a doctor or a lawyer using this app to record their notes and to then send them to their transcriptionist.
What we liked
- Dead simple interface
- High-quality recordings
- Ability to share with messaging apps from within the app
What could be better
- An option to split recordings apart and to splice recordings together
- Mulit-track recording
Overall
Hands down, this is a great app. It’s free and there are no ads to encumber your experience. It’s super easy to use and it’s compatible with a whole suite of messaging apps to share your recordings.
The post Record and share audio with Parrot Voice Recorder appeared first on AndroidGuys.
LG Escape 2 review
While most of the focus in the Android smartphone world goes to the high-end offerings from the various OEMs, these companies, like LG, continue to bolster and diversify their budget-friendly portfolio as well. With their latest addition in this category, LG brings to a low-cost device some of the unique aesthetic elements of its high-end brethren. Is that enough for this smartphone to stand up strong against the fierce competition? We find out, in this LG Escape 2 review!
Design
The aesthetics of the LG Escape 2 are a big part of its appeal, with the device featuring a subtle curve to the display. LG is rightfully making a big deal of the phone’s curve, which is a very respectable component of the device’s already satisfying visuals. While the Escape 2 is on the thicker side, at 9.9 mm, it is surprisingly light, weighing just 119 grams. The smaller footprint of the device makes for a comfortable one handed handling experience, and LG’s signature rear button layout is ideally placed to be with easy reach of the index finger, and offers solid tactile feedback.
The plastic back cover comes with a brushed metal finish similar to what is seen with the LG G3, but doesn’t entirely match the premium feel that was available with the previous generation LG flagship. The parting lines seen around the headphone jack and microUSB port, found at the top and bottom respectively, are a further reminder of the device’s low price tag. The back cover is removable, allowing for access to the SIM slots, microSD card slot, and replaceable battery. It’s important to note though that the back cover does pick up scratches quite easily, with this particular review unit having several imperfections after just a few days of regular use. All said and done, the LG Escape 2 does not feel too cheap or of a poor construction, but some care is necessary to keep things in a good condition.
Display
The LG Escape 2 comes with a 4.7-inch IPS LCD display, with a 720p resolution, resulting in a pixel density of 312 ppi. While it is the generation of Full HD and Quad HD, a 720p resolution is more than serviceable even today, especially given the relatively smaller display size. Sharpness isn’t much of a concern, viewing angles are fantastic, and the brightness is good enough to allow for comfortable outdoor visibility. Overall, this is a very solid display, which is sometimes difficult to find with devices at this price point. On the downside, the display glass proves to be a fingerprint magnet, it is going to be quite an annoying struggle to keep it clean.
Performance
Under the hood the LG Escape 2 packs the 64-bit quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor clocked at 1.2 GHz, backed by the Adreno 306 GPU and 1 GB of RAM. This processing package powers quite a lot of entry-level and mid-range smartphones, and has proven itself to be quite capable, which is also the case here. While there are no obvious signs of stutter or lag, the general performance, understandably, just feels slower. The device handles gaming quite well, but there will be the occasional dropped frame and slow load times when it comes to the more resource-hungry games.
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The bigger problem in terms of performance is with the availability of just 1 GB of RAM, which is barely enough to allow for any type of comfortable multi-tasking nowadays. Just opening a webpage could cause the launcher to be removed from memory, causing a delay when trying to get back to the homescreen. You might even be out of luck if you are someone who likes to listen to music and do other things on the phone at the same time, as the music will stop as soon as the phone runs out of memory. Something like 1.5 GB of RAM isn’t a drastic improvement, but at the least it would have likely prevented the last two situations from occurring very often.
Hardware
The LG Escape 2 comes with 8 GB of on-board storage, which is certainly disappointing when you consider the fact that only 2.8 GB is available to the user. Expandable storage via microSD card is available though, with it possible to expand the memory by up to 32 GB. The device also packs a standard suite of connectivity options, and of note is the fact that NFC support is also available, which is rarely found with other similar low-cost smartphones.
The Escape 2 is available from AT&T in the US, allowing users to enjoy high-speed internet access at 4G LTE speeds on that network. The rear speaker of the device does get plenty loud, but also sounds heavily distorted. The curved design helps make the speaker less prone to further distortion when set on a flat surface, but the audio quality itself isn’t particularly good to begin with.
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Taking off the back cover gives users access to the removable 2,100 mAh battery. The battery capacity is rather small, but even with the low-resolution display and battery friendly processing package, the battery life reflects that. With the screen brightness set to 75% and with Wi-Fi enabled, the device lasted around 12 hours, with just 3 hours of screen-on time. That might not be enough for some users, but luckily, you do always the option of carrying around a spare.
Camera
The LG Escape 2 comes with an 8 MP rear camera with a LED flash, and a 1 MP front-facing unit. Overall, the rear shooter allowed for some decent looking shots, and while the color reproduction was fairly accurate, the images did seem to lack in detail and sharpness. It does sometimes also take a few attempts to get an object in focus, which can become quite frustrating. The camera application is minimalistic, and doesn’t offer a whole lot in terms of manual control, but is very easy to use. There is also a quick launch feature, with a press and hold of the volume down key when in the landscape orientation required to launch the camera app.
Software
On the software side of things , the LG Escape 2 runs Android 5.0.2 Lollipop out of the box, an OTA update is immediately available when you first start up the device, taking it to Android 5.1.1 Lollipop. In either case, LG’s custom user interface is to be found on top.
As is the case with any LG smartphone, the software experience isn’t lacking in features, and making their way over to the Escape 2 are a number of useful ones, such as Knock Code, the pull down to view time gesture, flip to silence gesture, holding the volume buttons to quickly launch the customizable quick toggles, a clear all apps button, navigation bar settings, and more. The default LG keyboard and lock screen are also pretty good, so you might not end up needing to replace them.
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There were a few annoying aspects of the software experience as well, including the inability to customize the lock screen apps, or make any changes to the timing of the “night brightness” feature. The big negative here though is the amount of bloatware that comes pre-installed with the device, with around 25 additional applications available, with many of them coming from AT&T. The worst part is that these can only be disabled and not uninstalled, which is one of the reasons not a lot of user available on-board storage is present.
Specifications
| Display | 4.7-inch IPS LCD 720p resolution, 312 ppi |
| Processor | 1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor Adreno 306 GPU |
| RAM | 1 GB |
| Storage | 8 GB, expandable via microSD card up to 32 GB |
| Camera | 8 MP rear camera with LED flash 1 MP front-facing camera |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n Bluetooth 4.0 GPS + A-GPS microUSB 2.0 |
| Battery | 2,100 mAh |
| Software | Android 5.1.1 Lollipop |
| Dimensions | 133.4 x 66 x 9.9 mm 119 grams |
| Colors | Silver |
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Pricing and final thoughts
The LG Escape 2 is available from AT&T for $179 off-contract, or for $0.99 with a 2-year contractual commitment. A few installment plans are also available, starting at $6 per month, for a duration of 30 months. Only the silver iteration of the device is currently available.
So there you have it for this closer look at the LG Escape 2! While at first glance, the Escape 2 might look like a really good deal, and that price point is certainly impressive, there are a few let downs. Performance, audio quality of the rear speaker, and battery life could have all been better, and for a lot of users, these negatives will far outweigh the positives with regards to design, the solid display, and good software experience. Having a curved design at this price point is great though, as long as you are okay with the sacrifices that have to be made.
HTC One M9+ review
An increasingly prevalent trend in the smartphone world is the introduction of “Plus” smartphones, that typically bring better specifications and more features over what is available with the main flagship from the OEM. And that can be disappointing for consumers that have already committed to the latter. To the dismay of many, HTC has done exactly that with its flagship One M9, adding a few key enhancements that should have actually been there with the original and releasing the One M9+.
Can this latest high-end offering from HTC be considered the company’s true flagship? We find out, in this comprehensive HTC One M9+ review!
Design
The HTC One M9+ is essentially a larger version of its flagship, with a few minor, but noticeable, tweaks. With the 0.2-inch bump in the display size, the M9+ is understandably taller and wider than the One M9, and the rear camera has been redesigned to a circular shape, compared to the rounded square seen with the original. The more prominent difference comes up front though, with the speaker grill below the display being split to accommodate a fingerprint sensor.
Otherwise, the device still features the same full metal unibody construction, with the build quality that we’ve come expect from HTC. The corners are rounded off, and the tapered back allows for the phone to sit nicely in the hand. The One M9+ is not drastically bigger than the One M9, and is still fairly easy to use in one hand, and will still be within the realm of what most people consider a “normal” sized phone. The metal ridge design that goes around the perimeter of the phone provides for a much better grip as well. The full metal body means that it still isn’t the easiest phone to hold onto, but by no means will you ever feel worried about the phone slipping out of your hands.
Going around the device, the power button is placed on the right side just below the volume rocker, which is a definite improvement over previous One series smartphones. As is the case with the regular One M9 though, the placement of the power button is a tad too low, which makes it somewhat difficult to reach. That said, the double tap to wake feature is also available with the One M9+, and you won’t be needing to reach the power button all that often anyway. Of course, now there is also the added benefit of unlocking the device and going straight into the home screen by using the fingerprint scanner. The rest of the buttons and ports are in their usual locations, with a large black strip up top for the IR blaster, with the headphone jack and microUSB port at the bottom, and the SIM card tray on the left. Finally, HTC’s tried and true BoomSound speakers return up front, and for better or worse, the infamous black HTC bar still resides below the display.
Display
The improvements over the smaller namesake start with the display, with the One M9+ featuring a 5.2-inch Super LCD3 with a Quad HD resolution, resulting in a pixel density of 565 ppi. The bump is resolution does result in a far sharper screen, although some people will argue that the difference isn’t easily noticeable. Regardless, HTC has delivered another fantastic looking display with the One M9+, putting this flagship at par with the competition.
The blacks may not be as deep in comparison to the AMOLEDs of the world, but that isn’t surprising with an LCD screen. The screen overall is bright, vivid, with great viewing angles and a brightness that allows for comfortable outdoor viewing. There is a slight bias towards a warmer color tone though, that gives off a slightly yellowish hue sometimes, but otherwise, this display is an absolute pleasure to use in everyday tasks or for media consumption.
Performance
Another major change with the M9+ comes in the processor, but in this case, it does unfortunately prove to be a step back. Under the hood, the device packs an octa-core MediaTek MT6795T processor, clocked at 2.2 GHz, and backed by the PowerVR G6200 and 3 GB of RAM. In general everyday use, like navigating through the various elements of the UI and opening applications, the One M9+ provides a very fluid and responsive experience. It’s with multi-tasking that mixed results are seen. While switching back and forth between applications can be smooth and snappy sometimes, there are instances where there is a lot of stutter in the animations, and significant delays in the load times between apps.
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The dip in performance is far more noticeable when it comes to gaming though, which really raises questions with regards to HTC’s decision to go with a MediaTek processor. Graphic-intensive games like Modern Combat 5 can run smoothly at times, but there is too much action on the screen, the frame rate drops significantly, resulting in very choppy gameplay. Games like Mortal Kombat X are a little too much for the One M9+ to handle, and even simpler games like Clash of Clans fail to run at a consistent frame. This could be due to a lack of optimization for the MediaTek processor, but is still a huge letdown for anyone that enjoys gaming on their phone.
Hardware
One aspect of the hardware that enhances the media consumption and gaming experience in general is with HTC’s signature front-facing BoomSound speakers. They are still the loudest and most crisp sounding speakers on any smartphone, unrivaled by anyone. With Dolby audio enhancements, you can easily toggle between a theater mode for a surround sound effect, and a music mode for a more flatter sound.
The bottom speaker has undergone a slight makeover with a separation in the grill to make way for the fingerprint scanner. The process of setting up the scanner is very similar to both Apple and Samsung’s implementation, that requires a series of repeated presses to accurately record your fingerprint. Up to 5 fingerprints can be stored at one time, and once set up, the sensor works surprisingly well. Using the fingerprint scanner unlocks the phone almost instantaneously the majority of the time, and easily rivals the scanners found on the latest Apple and Samsung devices. While you are able to use the scanner as a dedicated home button, it is actually not a real tactile button, and functions more like a capacitive key.
32 GB of on-board storage is available with the One M9+, and for those that do need more, the storage is further expandable via microSD card by up to 128 GB. The device also comes with the usual suite of connectivity and sensor options.
The HTC One M9+ comes with a non-removable 2,840 mAh battery that has proved to be quite good. The battery lasts from anywhere between 14 and 16 hours with normal usage, which should be more than enough for most people to get through a full day. With heavy usage, that involved lots of gaming and taking pictures, that number does dip considerably though, down to around 10 to 11 hours.
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Exact screen-on times can’t be provided because for some reason, HTC has made determining that number very difficult. What can be said is that there was never a issue with getting through a full day unless you really put the device through its paces, and that did result in needing to reach for the charger in the middle of the day. The use of a MediaTek processor means that the One M9+ doesn’t come with any fast charging capabilities though, which would have been nice, but isn’t exactly a deal breaker.
Camera
HTC brings back the Duo Camera setup of the One M8 with the One M9+, allowing for the camera to refocus shots after the fact, but considering that many smartphone cameras can achieve the same effect with only one sensor, the re-introduction of the Duo Camera becomes a rather questionable choice. The main camera is still the same 20 MP shooter from the One M9, and a 4 MP UltraPixel camera is once again found up front for some high quality selfies.
The camera application continues to be minimalistic, with quick toggles to easily switch between the front camera and rear camera, and the ability to take a panorama shot simply by swiping on the viewfinder, or tapping the button on the bottom right. Photo Booth and Split Capture are also available for those you want it. The rest of the camera settings are hidden in the overflow menu, which keeps the interface from getting cluttered, but does result in getting to modes like HDR and manual requiring a few more steps than is necessary. The most notable difference with the camera UI is the addition of the Duo Camera toggle to quickly switch between duo capture and standard high resolution shots.
The Duo Camera works just like it is supposed to, but for best results, you’ll need to make sure that there is a clear subject of focus and a clear background, or the refocusing may not look very convincing. The biggest caveat to using this setup is that photos are capped at 4 MP, so there’s not a whole lot of room to work with if you’re planning to crop.
When shooting in the normal full resolution, there is plenty of detail in the shots, especially when you’re working with 20 MP, but considering that this the same sensor and software, the One M9+ faces a lot of the issues that plagued the camera experience of the One M9. Good looking shots are possible with the right lighting conditions, but the main problem here is its lack of dynamic range and the way it handles exposure. The exposure can be adjusted by tapping anywhere on the viewfinder, which is a very simple and easy implementation, but even a tiny change in the place you tap will result in major swings in the exposure, leading to two completely different looking photos as a result. HDR does help improve the situation, but with several seconds of processing time between each shot, it’s not always the most practical solution.
The situation doesn’t get much better in low light conditions, and without OIS, it becomes extremely difficult to get a clear shot, especially when the shutter has to to stay open longer to try and capture more detail. At higher ISOs, pictures quickly become filled with noise, which is expected, but results in soft images with very little color. This just goes to show that it isn’t all about just the megapixel count, and it is very evident that this camera is still suffering from the same problems as those seen on the One M9.
Software
On the software side of things, the HTC One M9+ is running Android 5.0.2 Lollipop, with the HTC Sense 7 UI on top. The user interface retains everything that many have come to know and love about HTC Sense from previous iterations, and adds a few key features that were first introduced with the One M9. The interface is still fast and fluid, and there are of course the now familiar elements like the vertical scrolling app drawer and Blinkfeed, which now also shows restaurant recommendations during meal times (which can also show on your lock screen if you so choose).
All of the motion launch gestures that make accessing certain functions of the phone a lot faster are still available, including double tap to wake, swipe up to unlock from a sleep state, directly access BlinkFeed, and quickly launch the camera app just by picking the device up in the landscape orientation and tapping the volume down button.
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New features introduced with Sense 7 include the addition of the home widget and a themes engine. The home widget aggregates a selection of applications that will be most useful to you, changing according to your location. Also available is a folder that houses the recently downloaded applications, and there is also a list of recommended apps that will appear alongside it. This feature can certainly be useful for some, but can also be removed easily if you don’t find a need for it.
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On the other hand, the new themes engine is one of the best additions to HTC Sense, and even though the default UI does look great, it is always nice to have a change of scenery. The themes engine is still relatively new, but there’s already numerous options to choose from, that allow you to change virtually everything at the click of a button, including the wallpaper, icons, sounds, fonts, and even the general system UI elements. You can even create your own theme by selecting a wallpaper or photo of your choice, and the theme engine will automatically build one for you; but you also have more granular control features at your disposal, to get it to look exactly the way you want it.
Specifications
| Display | 5.2-inch Super LCD3 2560 x 1440 resolution, 565 ppi |
| Processor | 2.2 GHz octa-core MediaTek MT6795T processor PowerVR G6200 GPU |
| RAM | 3 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB, expandable via microSD card by up to 128 GB |
| Camera | Duo Camera (20 MP + 2.1 MP) with dual LED flash 4 MP Ultrapixel front-facing camera |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Bluetooth 4.1 GPS + GLONASS microUSB 3.0 |
| Battery | 2,840 mAh |
| Software | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop |
| Dimensions | 151 x 72 x 9.6 mm 168 grams |
| Colors | Gunmetal gray, silver gold |
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Pricing and final thoughts
The HTC One M9+ is already available in markets like China and India, and has recently become available on Amazon for purchase in the US, with a price tag of around $710, which does fluctuate though. Available color options include gunmetal and silver gold. Keep in mind that, since it is a GSM version, it is compatible only with the AT&T and T-Mobile network in the US.
So there you have it for this in-depth look at the HTC One M9+! With such a high price tag, the device will be going up against some stiff competition in the LG G4, Samsung Galaxy S6, and even the HTC One M9 itself. If you’re confused between the One M9+ and its smaller sibling, the choice you have to make is with regards to how important a Quad HD display and fingerprint scanner are to you, and if they are worth the price. While these features are great to have, One M9 owners shouldn’t feel like they’ve been cheated, because the One M9+ is not without its shortcomings, particularly with regards to performance.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Active review
The latest addition to the high-end Samsung family is a rugged iteration of their flagship Samsung Galaxy S6, and holding true its moniker, is a great option for the more active users around the world. Does it bring more to the table apart from a more rugged form and various types of protection? We find out, in this Samsung Galaxy S6 Active review!
Design
Though the Samsung Galaxy Active line with their all-plastic builds isn’t new, it has never been as striking as it is in its current iteration. While the original Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge introduced glass and metal to revamp a gradually underwhelming design language, its Active counterpart goes back to a full plastic build,with rugged lines and obvious signs that point towards the durability of this device.
It is certainly beefier all around, with hard lines that highlight not only how thick the device is, but also how much more rugged it is. The camouflage print and a thick faux-bolted lining on the back are the device’s attempts to showcase some real strength. The thickness of the device really makes it stand out when compared to the sleek and elegant Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge, though it can be argued that thickness makes for a more comfortable handling exprience. The plastic might suffer fromo typical problems from accidental drops and bumps though, and these scuffs will detract from the look of the device little by little.
All the buttons on the Galaxy S6 Active are tactile, including the recent apps and back buttons up front below the display that flank the physical home button, along with the addition of an active key that is found on the top left. Obvious issues do arise from this, with presses of the power, home, and active keys all being able to wake the phone, which can become a nuisance at times when the device is in your pocket. Thankfully, some useful improvements have been made when compared to previous versions of the Active, with their being no additional flap cover for the microUSB port and the headphone jack, without taking away from the durability of the device.
Speaking of durability, an IP68 rating and a military-grade durability certification means that you can throw practically anything at this phone and still have a working device, which has certainly held true in our testing. Despite some falls and numerous plunges in the water, the Galaxy S6 Active never missed a beat. That said, a drop on a jagged rock that hits the screen at just the right angle will make it crack, so a little care if of course required, but unfortunate bumps, spills, and light tossing around in daily life are what this phone can protect itself from.
Scuffs and scratches will gradually draw away from the looks of the Galaxy S6 Active, with its aesthetic already not the most positively received. Plenty of commenters have already sounded off on how much worse this phone looks when compared to its more elegant brethren, but aesthetics is obviously all a matter of opinion. The camouflage print on the lighter versions of the phone do look somewhat odd, but that isn’t an issue with the sleek-looking black edition. With no such print on the back, the black color helps mask some of the more drastic lines of the device, and even if scuffs might be more prominent, the black version is the way to go.
The Galaxy S6 Active makes it almost painfully obvious about why it looks the way it does, but these choices result in a device that allows for something that you will be hard-pressed to find with a lot of other high-end smartphones out there, a higher peace of mind. For the user that wants a phone that is as powerful as the Galaxy S6, but doesn’t want to worry about even light drops putting it out of commission, the Active iteration is a prime choice, and these users is probably aware of, and wouldn’t mind, the ruggedized looks of the Galaxy S6 Active either.
Display
What makes the Active line so intriguing is that Samsung doesn’t skimp on the high quality essentials instead of focusing just on general resistance ratings. This starts with the display, with the Galaxy S6 Active featuring the same as the original, a 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display with a Quad HD resolution, with its resulting pixel density of 576 ppi.
For everyday usage, the Galaxy S6 line in general proves to be really easy on the eyes, while allowing for a bit of a sensory overload. The display really punches out colors, and is really easy to see outdoors as well, especially when the light sensor notices the bright conditions and pumps up the display brightness automatically for even better viewing.
Water will still register touches on the screen, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t become completely dysfunctional when submerged. That being said, the screen can be made inoperable for underwater camera usage by using the Aqua mode in the camera app. Another great display by Samsung returns in the Active version of the Galaxy S6, and there is no sacrificing of viewing enjoyment for the sake of ruggedness here.
Performance
That story continues when it comes to performance as well, with the octa-core Exynos 7420 processor, clocked at 2.1 GHz, and backed by the Mali-T760 GPU and 3 GB of RAM, returning here. Performance is expectedly as smooth as ever, and moving between the various elements of the UI showed no signs of lag or stutter. Issues were rarely observed while gaming, and more importantly, the Active never seemed to get as warm as would happen with its flagship siblings, even when under heavy gaming load.
Multi-tasking is easy as well, with the recent apps key getting used a lot for my particular active lifestyle, allowing for quick and snappy switching between music apps, activity trackers, and Evernote. Ultimately, the same great performance from the original Galaxy S6 comes from not only the powerful in-house processor, but also the optimizations made to the software experience. Even in the case of my personal use Galaxy S6 Active on which I run the Google Now launcher and a custom lock screen, everything works fine with seldom any slow down to the point where I needed to close all applications.
Hardware
The changes on the hardware side of things are obvious, with the main addition being the water, dust, and shock resistance that makes the Galaxy S6 Active one of the most resilient devices we’ve used this year. The various storage options available with the original doesnt make its way here though, with the device coming with 32 GB of storage, which can get used up pretty quickly, especially with no microSD expansion available.
Some compromises had to be made as well, including the move of the speaker from the bottom to the rear, which is a step back, apart from the fact that it also becomes almost inoperable until any water that has gotten in dries out. There is also the lack of a fingerprint reader in the home button, which fans of the better implementation on the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge will miss. The heart rate monitor returns though, and actually makes a little more sense in the Active edition than it does on the rest of Samsung’s lineup.
The Galaxy S6 Active is available exclusively from AT&T, and 4G LTE connectivity is as good as is possible from the carrier, and there have been no issues as far as connectivity is concerned. Phone calls were loud and clear, and there were no call drops either.
A main aspect of the hardware of the Galaxy S6 Active is the active key, a new button found at the top left side, that can be used to launch two applications you can set, one by a tap and the other by a long press. It makes sense as a quick way to launch the Activity Center, which it does by default, and a fitness application when on the move. You can change what apps can be open though, depending on your needs, so for some users, it makes as much sense to put a Calendar app and Evernote on it for quick access and logging of important information. The one take away is that an extra customizable button like this can be incredibly useful for anyone, and will be a welcome addtion to any and all future Samsung smartphones.
Some compromises may have been made, but the one area that the Galaxy S6 Active shines in is when it comes to the battery. Packing a large 3,500 mAh battery with wireless and fast charging capabilities baked in, this battery proves one undeniable truth when it comes to battery life, and that is bigger is better. Full days of work were possible with relative, but consistent, ease, with there being at least 35% of battery life left at the end of most days, which would go down to around 20% on days with moderately heavy usage.
Power saving modes are available, but didn’t prove to be necessary on most days, and even if the battery did drain, fast charging capabilities allowed for a full recharge in close to 90 minutes. In recent times, fast charging has felt like a consolation prize to make up for average battery life, but the Galaxy S6 Active proves that combining it with an adequately sized battery is definitely the better way to go.
Camera
The camera of the Galaxy S6 Active is also the same as the Galaxy S6, with a 16 MP rear shooter with a f/1.9 aperture and a 5 MP front-facing camera with a wide angle lens and the same aperture. The experience is the same across the board with the Galaxy S6 line, with a pretty intuitive camera application that is capable of all typical modes, and Pro mode that allows for changes in certain key aspects like white balance, ISO, and manual focus. The only real addtion in the camera is the Aqua mode, which makes the screen inoperable to allow for good underwater photography. Taking pictures and videos is possible by using the active key and volume rocker respectively.
Image quality remains quite high, with details captured very well, and largely left alone due to a minimal amount of post processing. Low light shots do suffer from the typical noise caused by a lack of light, but manages to do a better job than the majority of the Android smartphone cameras in the market. In situations from selfies to foodie pictures, photos and video looks great on the Galaxy S6 Active as they did in the Galaxy S6 and the Galaxy S6 Edge, which is really good news for the outdoorsy type who might want to record a scenic memory. For everyone else, the Galaxy S6 Active, like its flagship brethren, still provides one of the best camera experiences available in the world of Android today.
Software
Finally, when it comes to the software side of things, the same streamlined TouchWiz experience keeps the Galaxy S6 Active snappy, smooth, and about as fast as we’ve ever seen on a Samsung device. The only significant addition is the Activity Zone, which basically limps together S Health, the media app called Milk, and some extra tools like a barometer and stopwatch together for easy access. By default, it is the app the opens when hitting the active key, but it is just as easy to put your own personal fitness application in place of it.
Speaking of personal customization, the theme engine has provided an option for users to change the general colors of core areas of TouchWiz, with replacement launchers and applications available for further changes. A great example of the changes possible is what I’ve done with my personal Galaxy S6 Active, but even then, the core of TouchWiz isn’t bogged down by the tweaks that have been made. The Activity Zone is not a huge improvement for the Galaxy S6 Active, but perhaps it’s better to look at this rugged phone as a powerful yet durable shell around whatever fitness ecosystem you might already use in Android.
Specifications
| Display | 5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display 577 ppi |
| Processor | 2.1 GHz octa-core Exynos 7420 processor Mali-T760 |
| RAM | 3 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB not expandable |
| Network | 4G / LTE / HSPA+ 21/42 Mbps |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, A-GPS / Glonass, USB 2.0 |
| Camera | Rear 16 MP with OIS. Front 5 MP wide angle lens |
| Software | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop |
| Battery | 3,500 mAh |
| Dimensions | 146.8 x 73.4 x 8.6 mm 150 grams |
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Pricing and final thoughts
A total price of $695 puts the Galaxy S6 Active just a tad more expensive than the original Galaxy S6, and much cheaper than the Galaxy S6 Edge. The catch here is that the Galaxy S6 Active is available exclusively from AT&T, which will hopefully change, but is somewhat unlikely.
So there you have it for this closer look at the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active! There are quite a few rugged phones that we’ve seen, but this device might be the best of the bunch, largely because much of what made the original Galaxy S6 so good returns, and is further enhanced by everything a rugged phone can offer. Samsung can greatly benefit from making the Active available in more than just AT&T’s network, but more importantly, it has to notice how certain aspects of this fringe device can make future Samsung phones better, like the active key.
The Galaxy S6 Active might be setting the benchmark in what an active lifestyle phone should be, because the phrase “active lifestyle” can mean so many things to different people, and this phone manages to satisfy all of those demographics. An outdoorsy person can knock this phone around and still have perfectly working phone; a gym rat can check heart rate and quickly change songs or fitness routines using the active key; and even the heavy phone user couch potato will benefit from one of the best battery life experiences we’ve had this year. It may not be the prettiest phone, but the S6 active succeeds wonderfully in all of the places where it counts, and something has to be said for a phone that you actually don’t have to worry about, inside and out.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7 review
After staying away from the tablet market for almost a year, Samsung introduced a new budget-friendly tablet series back in March. First launched in Russia, the Galaxy Tab A series has now made its way to other markets around the world, including the US. The two tablets that are currently a part of the series offer everything that you may love about the Samsung experience, and at an affordable price point. As is true in the Android world though, the competition in this space is quite intense, with some really good options out there. So are these devices worth it? We find out in this full review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7!
Buy the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 from Amazon for $229
Buy the Galaxy Tab A 9.7 from Amazon for $266.77
Design
On the design front, both tablets feature an all-plastic build, with a matte-finish back and a silver display frame. The plastic certainly feels cheap when talking about the overall feel, but at least it makes for a back that isn’t prone to fingerprints. There are parting lines to be found on the sides and the corners of both tablets as well. While that doesn’t necessarily impact the usage negatively, it is a testament to the somewhat disappointing build quality of these devices.
Read more: Best cheap Android tablets (June 2015)
Signature Samsung design elements make a return this time around as well, with the physical home button up front, flanked by capacitive back and recent apps keys, found below the display. There is no backlighting with these capacitive keys though. Moving around the device, the power button and volume rocker are found on the right side, the microSD card slot is placed on the left, and the microUSB port and headphone jack are both at the bottom. The speakers are also found on the bottom, with the larger Galaxy Tab A 9.7 featuring a dual stereo speaker setup, compared to the single speaker of its smaller sibling. On the back of both are the camera and two smart cover connectors that can be used with the Samsung Smart Cover and a handful of third-party cases.
Both the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7 are thin and somewhat light, with a thickness and weight of 7.4 mm and 313 grams for the former, and 7.5 mm and 450 grams in the case of the latter. With the exception of an extra speaker, a slightly less protruding camera on the larger device, and of course, the overall size, both tablets share a similar aesthetic. It also worth mentioning that both of these devices come with a display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, and as a result, are slightly wider than what you’d expect to see on any other Android tablet.
Display
Both the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and the Galaxy Tab A 9.7 feature TFT touchscreens with the identical resolution of 1024 x 768, resulting in unfortunately low pixel densities of 160 ppi and 132 ppi respectively. This low resolution is certainly disappointing, as it would be something you’d expect with a tablet that is far cheaper than the price for what these tablets are being sold.
With that said, despite the noticeable lack of sharpness, both panels do offer vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. Sunlight readability could be slightly improved, but the displays are definitely bright enough for standard indoor use. Also noticeable is a thin black border around each display that adds to the bezel of the device. This is a lot more evident on the white model, which could be an annoyance to some people.
Performance and hardware
Under the hood, both tablets pack the quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor clocked at 1.2 GHz, and backed by the Adreno 306 GPU and 1.5 GB of RAM. This is quite the capable processing package, but things tend to feel a little slower than they should at times. The benchmark scores disappoint as well, and just like with the displays, this isn’t what you’d expect nor want with a device priced as high as these. The extra .5GB of RAM is pretty noticeable compared to devices with only 1GB, but unfortunately not by much. On the other hand, these tablets do handle gaming well, and while there is the occasional dropped frame, things remain smooth for the most part.
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Both tablets come with 16 GB of on-board storage, further expandable via microSD by up to 128 GB. Apart from the standard suite of connectivity options, a 4G LTE-capable version is also coming soon, which will also see the on-board storage and RAM bumped up to 32 GB and 2 GB respectively.
The speakers on the Galaxy Tab A devices get reasonably loud, and sound pretty good overall. It is easy to block them when using the device in landscape orientation, though, which is an issue with pretty much all devices with side-firing audio. The larger 9.7-inch model has a slight advantage in this area with its dual stereo speakers, but the audio quality remains about the same when it comes to real world usage.
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One highlight when it comes to the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7 is the battery life, with the devices packing large 4,200 mAh and 6,000 mAh batteries respectively. Using each tablet with Wi-Fi enabled and the screen brightness set at 75% allowed for both devices to last just over 14 hours, with an impressive 7 hours of screen-on time in the case of the 8-inch model, and 8 hours of screen-on time with the 9.7-inch model. The power saving modes Samsung offers with its devices are also available here.
Camera
Both devices come with 5 MP rear camera and a 2 MP front-facing unit. The rear camera allows for decent looking shots and will do in a pinch, but is certainly not capable enough to replace your primary mobile photography device. As far as the camera application is concerned, it isn’t as packed with features as is found with Samsung smartphones, but there are a few different modes, effects, and filters available that might help make up for the poor quality photos.
Software
As far as the software is concerned, both devices come with Android 5.0.2 Lollipop with Samsung’s TouchWiz UI on top. These tablets also bring with them quite a few incentives on the software side, including the availability of six Microsoft applications pre-installed, along with the option to claim 100 GB of free cloud storage for 2 years with the use of Microsoft OneDrive. In addition, you also get a 3-month subscription to Next Issue, one free Kindle e-book every month for a year, three free audio books from Audible, and three months of access to SIRIUSXM radio for new users.
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When it comes to the user interface, some of the positives include quicker and easier access to the Quick Toggles menu, along with the ability to edit these toggles, a split view of the Settings menu, a “close all apps” button, and multi-window, which proves to be really useful on devices with large displays. What gets confusing is the number of duplicate apps you’ll see, such as two web browsers, two note-taking apps, two email apps, three music apps, and even two app stores. The launcher’s non-alphabetical organization method can also take some getting used to, and the default keyboard is mediocre at best. Of course, you always have the option of third-party launchers and keyboards to remedy these downfalls.
Specifications
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 | Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 8-inch TFT display 1024 x 768 resolution, 160 ppi |
9.7-inch TFT display 1024 x 768 resolution, 132 ppi |
| Processor | 1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 Adreno 306 GPU |
1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 Adreno 306 GPU |
| RAM | 1.5 GB | 1.5 GB |
| Storage | 16 GB expandable up to 128 GB |
16 GB expandable up to 128 GB |
| Camera | 5 MP rear camera 2 MP front-facing camera |
5 MP rear camera 2 MP front-facing camera |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n Bluetooth 4.0 GPS + GLONASS microUSB 2.0 |
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n Bluetooth 4.0 GPS + GLONASS microUSB 2.0 |
| Software | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop |
| Battery | 4,200 mAh | 6,000 mAh |
| Dimensions | 208.3 x 137.9 x 7.4 mm 313 grams |
242.5 x 166.8 x 7.5 mm 450 grams |
| Colors | white, smoky titanium, smoky blue | white, smoky titanium, smoky blue |
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Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7
Pricing and final thoughts
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is available for $229, and the larger Galaxy Tab A 9.7 also features a heftier price tag of $299, but is currently on Amazon with a price tag of $266.77. Further, an S-Pen can also be picked up with the 9.7-inch model for an additional $50, but keep in mind that the device itself doesn’t have a slot to house the stylus. Available color options for both tablets include White, Smoky Titanium, and Smoky Blue.
Check out these other Samsung devices!
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So there you have it, a close look at the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and Galaxy Tab A 9.7! Both of these tablets bring a lot of positives to the table, including good quality audio, fantastic battery life, and a few useful Samsung-exclusive software features. With that said, the low resolution display and slower performance make it hard to justify the price tag, especially with regards to the larger 9.7-inch version. There are some really good tablets that offer similar specs and features to these tablets, but are also cheaper. That turns out to be the biggest issue with the latest Samsung tablets, unless you’re absolutely sold on the Samsung experience.
Buy the Galaxy Tab A 8.0 from Amazon for $229
Buy the Galaxy Tab A 9.7 from Amazon for $266.77
Samsung Galaxy S6 Active vs Galaxy S6 / S6 Edge
There’s no denying that the latest additions to the Samsung flagship family, the Galaxy S6, and its curved display counterpart, the Galaxy S6 Edge, are two of the best smartphones of the year thus far. Of course, Samsung does tend to launch multiple devices with various features and capabilities that share the flagship moniker, and that’s exactly what you get with the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active.
The new active variant of the Galaxy S6 is a ruggedized, waterproof, and overall beefier version of its original brethren. Is this version of the Galaxy S6 the one that is best suited to your needs?
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Before we fully jump in and do our best to answer that question, it has to be mentioned that a lot of what made the Samsung Galaxy S6 a success returns with the Galaxy S6 Active. Particularly the performance between the two devices will be largely the same, due to the fact that it sports the same processor, GPU, and RAM. Still, there are a number of enhancements or compromises made with the Galaxy S6 Active, which is why we will skip over all that is same and instead focus solely on what makes the Galaxy S6 Active different from its flagship namesake.
Without further ado, let’s dive in and take an in-depth look at the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active vs Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge!
Design
The big difference between these devices, of course, begins in the design department. Many of us were excited with Samsung’s decision to move on to a different build material in the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge, with their metal and glass unibody designs finally offering the premium look and feel that we wished for. This is why the all plastic build of the Galaxy S6 Active may feel like a step back, but is a necessary change to create a device that sports a sturdy and beefy build that can take any punishment you bring its way.
Speaking of taking any punishment, there’s plenty that the Galaxy S6 Active has to offer in terms of protection. Its IP68 rating for resistance to dust and water means that apart from being almost entirely protected from dust, the device can also be submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for as long as 30 minutes with no negative impact on usability and performance. The Galaxy S6 Active is also Military Standard MIL-STD-810G certified, making it resistant to salt, dust, rain, vibration, solar radiation, and transport and thermal shock. Basically, accidental spills, drops, and bumps aren’t going to do much to keep this device down, as this phone is outfitted for so much more than what the clumsiest of people can dish out.
These protection capabilities are in stark contrast with the seemingly fragile glass encased Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge, whose thin, and what looks like delicat, builds give an impression that even a small drop from the hand to the table could cause damage. While making the Samsung Galaxy S6 review, the protruding camera of the device did crack from just falling over, which has resulted in me being wary of even any small stumbles. There isn’t any form of waterproofing either, so don’t go spilling any water on it or dunking the phone in liquids, as just about everything will malfunction if you do.
In order to reach an alleviated level of durability with the Active some compromises had to be made, and they’re easy to see at first glance. For starters, the button layout has been made fully tactile, and the home button also loses the fingerprint scanner. This poses a problem that isn’t that far removed from what occurs with the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, with there always being a danger of the device being triggered in the pocket, because of the presence of a tactile home button. This might be more prevalent with the Galaxy S6 Active though, because of a quick launch button on the top left corner that can wake the phone and automatically go into preset applications which, while incredibly useful, can be an issue when the device is in the pocket.
The Galaxy S6 Active sports a rugged design and is significantly thicker than its flagship counterparts, with a camouflage print on the back making for a device that may not be particularly attractive to everyone. That isn’t the point here though, with the device being built to withstand anything that is thrown at it. Where an elegant, but somewhat delicate, device like the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge may turn heads, the Galaxy S6 Active provides a peace of mind that will be useful and necessary for quite a few users out there.
Display
When it comes to the display, the same 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display with a Quad HD resolution is found across the board, so the main difference in this area comes with regards to the edges of the Galaxy S6 Edge, with capabilities that include tickers and quick shortcuts, all of which are overshadowed by the only truly useful feature, the night clock.
The Galaxy S6 Active obviously doesn’t have the curved sides of the display, that ultimately helps with handling, helped along with the extra girth that the device features. In the case of the Galaxy S6 Edge, handling and comfort are helped by the curved sides, but what became a nuisance was accidentally triggering the screen from to time, along with the many times that our palms emulated a long press on the screen and stifled any other taps on the screen as a result. Overall, the better handling experience the Galaxy S6 Active provides is more useful than the abilities of the edges of the Galaxy S6 Edge.
This isn’t an issue with the regular Galaxy S6 of course, which makes it the middle path device here. The Galaxy S6 and the S6 Active won’t suffer from touch problems like the Galaxy S6 Edge, but the latter is definitely the most attractive of the lot. Granted, the Galaxy S6 Active may turn heads as well, but not for the same aesthetic reasons as is the case with the sleek S6 Edge.
Hardware
We keep using the word “beefy” to describe the Galaxy S6 Active, but that is just not in association with the size of the phone, but is also related to what the device packs underneath the surface.
This is mainly seen in terms of battery life, with the Galaxy S6 Active featuring a larger 3,500 mAh battery that has been proving itself, giving this device one highly contestable point over its original siblings. With typically heavier than average use a full 12 hours of work was possible with relative ease, and I was comfortably able to end most days with at least 25% of battery life left in the tank. With fast charging capabilities still available, it doesn’t take long to get the device back to full capacity either, and the device also comes with the same wireless charging capabilities as its siblings. While the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge also come with these features, you might find yourself relying on fast charging more often than is comfortable, and the batteries of these devices feel quite paltry when compared to the beefier Galaxy S6 Active.
As mentioned, there are compromises though, like the understandable omission of the fingerprint reader, with its press type implementation something that we really enjoy on the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge. If it is a feature you absolutely need than the Active probably isn’t the right device for you, but if you are someone who won’t miss it much, and give more importance to external protection, the choice is obvious.
The customizable quick launch button on the top left of the device allows for two applications to be launched, via a tap or a long press, and has proven to be incredibly useful. Have them set to open up a music application and your fitness tracker, or to open up Evernote and a calendar app for any important meeting or notes, and you’ll find yourself pressing consistently. You also don’t have to waste a precious slot on the camera app, as a double-tap of the home button will quickly and smoothly launch the camera. This extra button on the side for customized launches will be useful to everyone, and it is something we’re hoping isn’t just limited to Active iterations in future devices.
Camera
The same sensor and features of the Galaxy S6 return with the Galaxy S6 Active, with its f/1.9 aperture, pro modes, and video recording that includes 4K and slow motion capture. As expected, the picture quality is fantastic with the Active as well, with images benefitting from higher saturation and high detail even in lower light conditions. As mentioned in the reviews of the Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge, the best part of the image quality stems from a lack of post processing artifacts. Noise reduction is kept to a minimum, allowing for details to be shown the way they are, without any smudging that otherwise occurs.
The only real difference here is addition of an Aqua Mode with the Galaxy S6 Active, which makes the touchscreen inoperable, and requires using the Active button for photos, or the volume buttons for video capture. It’s a typical move for swimming photos that make another case for the inclusion of this Active button in future Galaxy smartphones.
Software
On the software side of things, you get the same new trimmed down, speedy, and smooth version of TouchWiz, which certainly proved to be pleasantly surprising when we first used it. With both these devices sporting the identical operating system, it’s hard to really give the edge to either in this department.
The Galaxy S6 Active does come with an Activity Zone though, but it’s really nothing more than a easy to find grouping of tools that are mostly found in S Health already, including a compass and barometer. The Galaxy S6 Active doesn’t get much more in the way of software features, but having a rugged phone that is ready for the active lifestyle makes sense when it can still take advantage of all the sporty and fitness related apps found on the Google Play Store.
Specs comparison
| Samsung Galaxy S6 / S6 Edge | Samsung Galaxy S6 Active | |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display 577 ppi |
5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display 577 ppi |
| Processor | 2.1 GHz octa-core Exynos 7420 processor Mali-T760 |
2.1 GHz octa-core Exynos 7420 processor Mali-T760 |
| RAM | 3 GB | 3 GB |
| Storage | 32/64/128 GB not expandable |
32 GB not expandable |
| Network | 4G / LTE / HSPA+ 21/42 Mbps | 4G / LTE / HSPA+ 21/42 Mbps |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, A-GPS / Glonass, USB 2.0 | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, A-GPS / Glonass, USB 2.0 |
| Camera | Rear 16 MP with OIS. Front 5 MP wide angle lens |
Rear 16 MP with OIS. Front 5 MP wide angle lens |
| Software | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop | Android 5.0.2 Lollipop |
| Battery | 2,600 mAh – S6 Edge 2,550 mAh – S6 |
3,500 mAh |
| Dimensions | 142.1 x 70.1 x 7 mm 132 grams – S6 Edge 143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8 mm 138 grams – S6 |
146.8 x 73.4 x 8.6 mm 150 grams |
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Pricing and Final Thoughts
While the curves of the Galaxy S6 Edge result in a significant increase in the price when compared to the regular Galaxy S6, usually around a $100 more, the larger battery, rugged exterior, and extra useful button of the Galaxy S6 Active will set you back only $10 more. At least for the moment, the Galaxy S6 Active is available exclusively from AT&T.
So there you have it for this closer look at the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active vs Galaxy S6 / S6 Edge! The Galaxy S6 Active is really the phone made for anyone that doesn’t feel as safe with Samsung’s more elegant, but also more delicate, offerings. Despite the move back to plastic, or as a result of, the Active can take a beating and keep things ticking along. Its usefulness is more than catered just towards the rock climber, the drink spiller, or the clumsy handler, with its larger size allowing for a battery capacity and longevity that we only wished the Galaxy S6 could muster, and the Active button is useful for everyone who wants an easy access method to their most used applications. If the Galaxy S6 Edge is the luxury sports car, and seems to be priced accordingly, the Galaxy S6 Active is the off-roading vehicle that can still show off on the streets, and in this scenario, also gives far better gas mileage.
Nubia Z9 review: a Chinese flagship that is sure to turn some heads in the USA
Considering the USA is a market where Chinese phones get little attention, Nubia is doing a great job at making a name for itself here. Last year they put a large focus on their affordable Nubia 5S Mini, but they are planning to step it up in 2015 and go up against the top dogs with the release of the Nubia Z9.
This flagship phone is hitting the USA very soon, but what does it really have to offer in such a competitive market? The Nubia Z9 packs top-tier specifications, a border-less display and some very unique features. The real question is whether it’s good enough to earn a spot in your pocket. I have been testing the Nubia Z9 for a good amount of time and am ready to tell you all about my experience with it.
Editor’s note: we’ve reviewed the Classic model of the Nubia Z9 (3GB RAM, no fingerprint reader).
Design
Nubia’s smartphones have become known for their design language, something that isn’t changing with the Nubia Z9. We can say they took a conservative approach by adopting the same design formula we have seen a few times in the past. I personally believe this is not really a bad thing.
The Nubia Z9 adopts a rectangular slab shape. It’s made of high-end materials, sporting a metal frame sandwiched by a glass front and back. These characteristics, along with the chamfered edges, make for a smartphone that manages to feel great in the hand. It truly gives off the impression of being a very solid and high-quality handset. It also helps that its angular design and unique edges provide a good grip on the device. One would imagine a phone made predominantly of glass should be slippery, which is not really the case with the Nubia Z9.
A lot of manufacturers these days sacrifice specs and power for a svelte body. I believe I am not alone when I say that’s not the smartest choice, but the industry is all about it. Not Nubia, though! This smartphone is 9 mm thick, so it won’t be winning any thinness contests. It’s noticeable the manufacturer wasn’t focusing on this, as there is no taper on the back trying to simulate a thin profile, either. You will feel every single millimeter when you pick this phone up.
It doesn’t help that this is not the lightest phone, weighing in at 200 grams. The weight will definitely take some getting used to, especially if you come from one of those super thin smartphones, but it’s something you can definitely get over once you realize the benefits a thicker handset can offer; among them is a larger battery (more on that later). Not to mention, the thickness and weight gives the Nubia Z9 a solid feeling. You will be reminded this is a high-quality device every the moment you pull it out of your pocket.
In terms of ports, buttons and connectivity, the Nubia Z9 comes with a pretty standard set. You can find the 3.5 mm headset jack up top, as well as a microphone and IR blaster. On the right side there’s a metal power button, accompanied by the volume keys and a dedicated camera button (these all offer great feedback and a solid quality).
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On the bottom we can find a lonely microUSB port (which does look like a USB-C port, but isn’t) and what may appear to be dual speakers. The key word in there is “appear”, as only one of them is a speaker – the other is a microphone. Finally, the left side of the phone houses nothing but a dual-SIM card slot.
The design team adds some contrast by including a red ring around the camera, as well as the home button in the front. There’s also a couple glowing red capacitive buttons right next to the home button (menu and back). By the way, you can easily switch around their order in the settings.
Display
I have to say the display is likely the main attraction in the Nubiz Z9. This screen is fantastic! It sports a 5.2-inch 1080p panel. It may not have that Quad HD we have gotten so used to by now, but we have often said a good display is not always the one with the most pixels.
A quality screen is graded by other factors. The Nubia Z9 makes up for the 1080p resolution by offering bright and vivid colors, as well as spectacular outdoor visibility and good viewing angles. Not to mention, its 400+ PPI pixel density makes for a more than fair reading and media experience.
Aside from offering a quality panel, Nubia managed to make the Z9’s screen stand out (literally) by adding a curve along the edges. They had to use 2.5D glass to achieve this, but it’s totally worth it. The screen has been raised above the frame, giving it a much more prominent curve and making it a pleasure to swipe across the screen. This design element gives the impression that one is simply holding a completely bezel-less phone, but you can certainly find the edges upon closer inspection.
It resembles the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge in a certain way, but the curves on the Nubia Z9 are not drastic enough to alter your viewing experience. Nubia did add some nifty software tricks to take advantage of this peculiar display, but more on will be covered later in the review.
Performance
Performance will be slightly different depending on which version of the device the customer gets. You can opt for either the Classic, Elite or Exclusive editions. The main difference between these rests in the RAM, internal storage and the inclusion (or exclusion) of a fingerprint reader. All devices come with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor, but the Classic version (the one we have for review) sports 3 GB of RAM. The Elite and Exclusive editions tout a mighty 4 GB of RAM, while only the Exclusive edition features a fingerprint reader.
Regardless, we have had a great experience with the Nubia Z9 in terms of performance. Basic tasks like navigating through he UI and using apps are a breeze. We also found no issues trying to multi-task (of course, this thing has a massive amount of RAM memory) or playing graphically intensive games.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor was off to a bad start, with plenty reports suggesting phones were getting exceedingly hot. Is the Nubia Z9 plagued by the same cumbersome heat? It sure does get warm, but we found it was never an extreme over-heating case. It was nothing to worry about.
In terms of the differences between 3 GB and 4 GB of RAM, we believe there won’t be a significant gap. Sure, in theory the 4 GB version will likely run a little better and feature superior multi-tasking, but 3 GB is plenty of memory for a smartphone. Differences will be small at best.
Hardware
Another important difference between available Nubia Z9 versions is the storage capacity. The Classic model comes with 32 GB, while the Elite and Exclusive iterations are granted a nice 64 GB of storage. If this is an important factor for you, though, you should make the right choice from the get-go. This phone does not feature expandable storage, which means you will be stuck with whatever amount you choose when you purchase the device.
Once we move past storage we start finding out this is a very well-endowed smartphone. Even audiophiles get a special treat in the form of HiFi audio and Dolby 7.1 surround sound. You will really notice the difference while listening with a good pair of headphones. The integrated speakers are not built to take full advantage of these features, but they still pack quite the punch.
The speaker is loud enough to hear even in relatively noisy environment, and the sound is fairly clean. My only complaint is that the speaker’s location makes it susceptible to muffling with the hand, especially when in landscape mode. Not to mention the fact that all the sound comes from a single speaker on one side of the phone, which makes for an unbalanced listening experience.
Another great hardware feature was the inclusion of a fingerprint reader, but this one is not for everybody. It is exclusive to the… Exclusive version. The placement of the fingerprint reader will certainly have some people raising eyebrows, as it’s located on the side of the phone, as opposed to the front or back. This is unlike what we are used to seeing, and sadly we really can’t comment on how well it works. Our version of the smartphone doesn’t have a fingerprint reader.
Software
The Nubia Z9 runs on Lollipop, but you would never know this if you didn’t jump into the settings to check all the details. Nubia’s UI is completely different and doesn’t go in line with Google’s Material Design. Instead you get a much more colorful interface filled with transparency effects. Thankfully there are plenty of themes in the built-in theme store, which will help you customize the design to your liking.
The biggest difference you will find in the Nubia Z9 is that the company ditched Google’s standard app drawer. Nubia focuses on the experience by dumping all apps and widgets straight into your home screen (much like iOS).
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Aside from that, we would like to say the Nubia Z9 does have a bunch of very neat software tricks up its sleeve. I personally like Screen Division, which is practically Nubia’s version of Multi-Window. One can also take advantage of the convenient double-tapping to wake function. It’s easy to shrink the screen for one-handed use by simply long-pressing the back button. Drag 3 fingers upwards and the phone will create a screenshot.
Those are just some examples of the software optimizations found in the Z9, but things get more interesting once you start messing with Nubia’s FiT (Frame Interactive Technology). This is what we were talking about when we mentioned the curved screen edges were used for some pretty awesome features.
You can swipe up on either side of the glass to launch a specific application or switch to apps that are currently running in the background. In addition, one can quickly launch the camera app by turning the phone sideways and touching four fingertips on the edge of the glass. You can also perform various grip-based gestures to unlock the phone, or take a screenshot just by simply squeezing the phone.
These may seem like odd gestures at first, but they totally change your experience once you get used to them. Nubia swears they will save you plenty of your precious seconds in the long run.
Camera
Nubia needs to offer amazing camera quality if it really wants to go toe-to-toe with all the major flagships in the USA, and we are glad to report the Nubia Z9 shooter handles itself pretty well. The device sports a 16 MP rear camera with OIS (optical image stabilization), and they also didn’t skimp out on the front-facing shooter, which features an 8 MP sensor.
The manufacturer has been known for placing high emphasis on their camera software, which usually comes with a plethora of manual options for fine-tuning your shots. This device offers a bevy of features, including time-lapse, multi-exposure, slow shutter, HDR, panorama and full manual controls.
Picture quality was surprisingly good, with great color reproduction, dynamic range and pristine detail. I do have to say HDR is a bit too aggressive in processing. It makes colors a bit over-saturated, skin tones appear unnatural and shadows are heavily reduced. This makes for very unrealistic photos that make the image resemble a watercolor painting.
Low-light photos are average and I found the camera can handle prominent light sources (like lamp posts) pretty well. There’s a big increase in noise once you start taking pictures indoors, in dimly lit environments. This is due to the higher ISO levels the camera needs to use to take in more light. It’s really the biggest downfall to the camera, but the phone offers a relatively pleasant shooting experience with fair results, even if it’s not the best in-class.
The 16 MP sensor is good for 4K video recording, and the OIS sure helps stabilize the footage and make those clips smooth.
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Battery
You will be happy Nubia added a few millimeters to the Z9 when you realize this phone packs a 3000 mAh battery. Battery life is impressive, guys. Even with several hours of heavy gaming and plenty of pictures taken, the phone was still able to go a full day without charging. Screen-on time was anywhere between 4 to 4.5 hours. You will be able to extend those numbers much farther with casual or light usage.
Do keep in mind our version of the phone is Chinese, though. This device doesn’t feature Google Play services, so the phone doesn’t have to handle any typical data syncing. This will likely have an effect on battery life.
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Price and conclusion
The Nubia Z9 is available in other markets, but we have to wait until Q3 2015 to see it launch in the USA. Prices start at $564 for the Nubia Z9 Classic edition. The price tag is then raised to $645 and $725 for the Elite and Exclusive versions, relatively.
These are certainly high-end prices. And even if the Nubia Z9 is a high-end phone all in all, it will have a lot of catching up to do against competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S6 and LG G4. The USA is a very competitive market, but Nubia has what it takes to at least make an impression.
Regardless, Nubia looks to be taking the USA market very seriously with the Nubia Z9. It’s especially impressive to see a Chinese manufacturer releasing one of their high-end phones in the USA, whereas most other Chinese phone makers only release their budget devices. We have to tip our hats to Nubia for their courage.
This phone is going up against the big guys, and it has all the specs and features to provide a fair battle. We are not sure if this will be enough to “change the game”, but that bezel-less screen will definitely turn some heads. Overall, we believe it’s one hell of a phone and users will certainly enjoy it, probably even more than some of those popular flagship smartphones.
AIVAnet 