Decision: Note 3 v. Galaxy S V - Galaxy Note 3 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi all... I'm a long-time lurker, first-time poster. I want to thank you for all your help and analysis in smartphones.
I had a Galaxy S 4 for so long, and I'm stuck with the tough decision of choosing between a Note 3 or waiting a few more weeks for the SV.
I consider myself a power user, and I think the stylus is really cool. Do the new perks of the SV outweigh the features of the Note 3?
I'm a business professional, so the Note 3 does have that appeal--but I'm concerned that many people don't end up even using the stylus.
Your thoughts are appreciated. PS, I'm sorry if I've posted this in the wrong forum.

Shoot... I just read Jonny's sticky about questions... sorry mods. Please move this to the Q&A forum.

pgriffin said:
Hi all... I'm a long-time lurker, first-time poster. I want to thank you for all your help and analysis in smartphones.
I had a Galaxy S 4 for so long, and I'm stuck with the tough decision of choosing between a Note 3 or waiting a few more weeks for the SV.
I consider myself a power user, and I think the stylus is really cool. Do the new perks of the SV outweigh the features of the Note 3?
I'm a business professional, so the Note 3 does have that appeal--but I'm concerned that many people don't end up even using the stylus.
Your thoughts are appreciated. PS, I'm sorry if I've posted this in the wrong forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just came from getting my Note 3, I sold my Xperia Z1 to get this, I like this phone, looks cool, and is fluid but I need to root and put a custom rom, I hate the bloatware, also I want a few tweeks, the phone its great, for me it just need a few tweek, S5 is nothing from other world, I think that some guys here will port some stuff from S5 to Note3, so i will say go for the Note 3, its almost the same, note 3 has 3GBs of ram instead of 2.

AlphaRoX said:
I just came from getting my Note 3, I sold my Xperia Z1 to get this, I like this phone, looks cool, and is fluid but I need to root and put a custom rom, I hate the bloatware, also I want a few tweeks, the phone its great, for me it just need a few tweek, S5 is nothing from other world, I think that some guys here will port some stuff from S5 to Note3, so i will say go for the Note 3, its almost the same, note 3 has 3GBs of ram instead of 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool, thanks for your opinion. I agree that 3GB is better than 2GB. I wonder if the processor specs of the SV are that much better than the Note 3.

pgriffin said:
Hi all... I'm a long-time lurker, first-time poster. I want to thank you for all your help and analysis in smartphones.
I had a Galaxy S 4 for so long, and I'm stuck with the tough decision of choosing between a Note 3 or waiting a few more weeks for the SV.
I consider myself a power user, and I think the stylus is really cool. Do the new perks of the SV outweigh the features of the Note 3?
I'm a business professional, so the Note 3 does have that appeal--but I'm concerned that many people don't end up even using the stylus.
Your thoughts are appreciated. PS, I'm sorry if I've posted this in the wrong forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note 3 owns every other phone out there. 3gb RAM. Period.
S4 and S5 are jokes comparatively.

nexxusty said:
Note 3 owns every other phone out there. 3gb RAM. Period.
S4 and S5 are jokes comparatively.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, dude. I don't know about the S5 being a joke--it can definitely hold its own.
By the way, are you guys using the stylus?

pgriffin said:
Thanks, dude. I don't know about the S5 being a joke--it can definitely hold its own.
By the way, are you guys using the stylus?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Believe me when I say that Snapdragon 800 is enough, and 801 is just a variant with a few tweeks.
The USB 3.0 it is great, the phone charges faster and the baterry is great same as Z1.
And im not an artist and my handwriting sucks but I use it a few times, also the apps for the pen are cool, this is my first day with the note, the only thing I hate is knox, i want to root so bad.

AlphaRoX said:
Believe me when I say that Snapdragon 800 is enough, and 801 is just a variant with a few tweeks.
The USB 3.0 it is great, the phone charges faster and the baterry is great same as Z1.
And im not an artist and my handwriting sucks but I use it a few times, also the apps for the pen are cool, this is my first day with the note, the only thing I hate is knox, i want to root so bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note 3. I've owned it for almost 5 months now.
Although I don't use the stylus a lot, the phone itself is very fluid. The only downside I see is its camera in low light conditions. I'm quite sure the S5 wont be that much of an improvement even though they say its heaps and bounds better than the s4, with how samsung does its business recently, I'm skeptical.
So yeah, 3 GB > 2 GB. Fingerprint scanner? Heartrate scanner? Slightly better camera. Nah, the functionalities of the stylus still is more beneficial than those things.

Also 33% increase in price for the S5 than note 3 doesnt appeal to me

I had the same dilemma,
I took Note 3 and I'm glad, perfect device for everyday office work, watching movies, for social networks etc.
updated my N3 to KitKat and need to say, that battery life on 4.3 was better but it might be my impression only,
but anyway: very good device,

The S5 is a lesser device compared to the Note 3.
It has less RAM, smaller screen, no Spen... The only thing it has is a fingerprint scanner and 3MP more in the camera.
As for the heartrate scanner, this one works on the Note 3 and the results match my pulse meter: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.runtastic.android.heartrate.lite
I wouldn't even consider the S5.

S5 is basically a smaller Note 3 with a slightly improved camera sensor and less ram. So size is really the biggest practical difference, since I don't think you'll have problems with 2GB ram.
Click thanks if I helped you
Sent from my SM-N900W8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Note 3 is cheaper. And better. Did I mention that it's cheaper? And better? I don't think I said that it's cheaper and better yet.

Go for a note 3 I'd say. The s5 is really lackluster when it comes to features. The note 3 is the only phone next to the note 2 I've owned that allows me to not use my pc so much. It's an all in one media device that just works.
Sent from my SM-N9005 beast of a phone.

Just close your eyes and buy note 3. I can guarantee you that you will have happy face. Also for the reasons you have mentioned, note series is for you. Stylus is really functional for those who know how it works
Once you move to note series, you probably won't ever go back to S series. Just one advice is that try to find on a cheaper price as you might have to move to note 4 later this year

The specs are better, and so is the price. The n9005 wins easily
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

Note 3 pros:
-3GB RAM
-Higher storage options
-S Pen
-Bigger screen
S5 pros:
-Water and dust resistance.
-Better camera (heaps ahead according to some camera shots)
-Heart rate sensor and a fingerprint sensor
-Better UI (although this might come with an update or get ported)
-Faster processor (not by much but faster)
-Smaller screen but with better PPI
So, it really depends, look at the benefits of both models carefully and get what suits you more.
I got a Note 3 because I'm sticking to the Note line from now, my upgrade will be the Note 4.

Right now i have note 3- it is great phone but why is from plastic. I was paid over 500 pounds. Now after few moths start scratching. I was hope the next s5 will be from premium material but isn't and I disappointed. My new phone will be xperia z2 or HTC ONE M8. This is just my opinion.

sylwek23111 said:
Right now i have note 3- it is great phone but why is from plastic. I was paid over 500 pounds. Now after few moths start scratching. I was hope the next s5 will be from premium material but isn't and I disappointed. My new phone will be xperia z2 or HTC ONE M8. This is just my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because most metal bodies on phones cause problems. You can't replace the battery. They scratch and scuff way more than plastic. The money you paid was for what's inside, not what's outside.
Click thanks if I helped you
Sent from my SM-N900W8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

I highly recommend the note 3 over any other phone. The s5 is the best phone of "normal " proportions (alongside the nexus 5) but you won't get a phone that compares to the note 3 until the note 4 surfaces.
Sent from my Magical Talking Stone using xda app-developers app

Related

Skipping the gs4 , keeping the Note II

So after having a good look at the specs and reviews of the gs4 ive come to the conclusion that in many ways moving to the gs4 would be a downgrade from what I already have. After all, the note 2 has a bigger battery, bigger screen, SPen the things that really matter.
I have a 4200mah battery which keeps my note II operational for 2 days heavy usage, everything on, screen on full brightness. 4g isnt really cheap enough to be worthwhile in the UK, and if im not mistaken , there is a 4g version of the note II anyway which will be cheaper than the s4. Ive read that the s4 has dissapointing battery life, something which is crucial to busy men should as myself.
In a way in think that the note II is the pinnacle of perfection for current samsung smartphones ( and all other smartphones period) This is somewhat a double edged sword for samsung as it seems the note line is going canabilise their s line ( reviews of the gs4 seem quite luke warm)
Sent from my mighty GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app
And you're completely right!
Inviato dal mio GT-N7100 con Tapatalk 2
Ive got the Note II myself in titanium grey and absolutely love it and let me be honest here I'll rather it over a S4 any day, I'm not saying the S4 is a bad phone definitely not and I'm sure alot will prefer it over the Note II and vice versa. Ok the S4 has the 1080 p display but to me the screen on the Note II is just as good if not better due to its gorgeous size which I love. Plus the functionality of the S pen like what you said. Ohh and battery life on this thing is purely amazing
Sent from my GT-N7105T using xda premium
Yup. S4 is a nice phone but it can't even offer much to anyone who already has an s3, let alone a note 2. It's really getting to the same point as personal computers - advancements are still happening but they aren't as frequent and drastic as they once were. Heck even the venerable s2 is still a solid performer when you stack it up against the latest phones and it's two years old now.
Sent from the mighty Note II
perfectohhhh.....
dr.m0x said:
Yup. S4 is a nice phone but it can't even offer much to anyone who already has an s3, let alone a note 2. It's really getting to the same point as personal computers - advancements are still happening but they aren't as frequent and drastic as they once were. Heck even the venerable s2 is still a solid performer when you stack it up against the latest phones and it's two years old now.
Sent from the mighty Note II
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still have a s2 lying around somewhere as a back up, runs jellybean beatifully. Its true raw computing specs are becoming more and more irrelevant , and I heard the note II will get some s4 features anyway.
Very interested in what the note III has to offer however.
Sent from my baus GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app
For me personally, S4 is a downgrade in every respect. I have perfectly adequate specs even if I plant to underclock my N2, the battery life is the best etc. And unless I'm going crazy, I find N2 screen significantly better to S4 (I don't put my screen under my microscope anyways )
Personal preference, but as I've said countless time before, if you bought Note 2 like I did for the size, battery life and S Pen, no way in hell is S4 an upgrade. Like S4 though, would love to just play with one
Its lke the note 2 is the improvement of galaxy s3 so it will be note 3 for s4
tuxonhtc said:
For me personally, S4 is a downgrade in every respect. I have perfectly adequate specs even if I plant to underclock my N2, the battery life is the best etc. And unless I'm going crazy, I find N2 screen significantly better to S4 (I don't put my screen under my microscope anyways )
Personal preference, but as I've said countless time before, if you bought Note 2 like I did for the size, battery life and S Pen, no way in hell is S4 an upgrade. Like S4 though, would love to just play with one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I won't buy S4 over note 2 either. For someone owning S3, it might be an upgrade, though not a significant one. I am looking forward to note 3 though. I hope they won't increase the dimensions significantly. Am not a fan of aluminium body either, which is rumored for note 3. It increases weight. I buy a case for my device, so looks doesn't matter to me. I am fine with plastic. And rumor has it that screen will be plastic instead of glass. So it will thinner (more space for battery) and lighter. I hope the later is true, but its likely to be the other way round.
Totally I agree not buying s4 either
sent from xda-app
device : note2
ROM : testing
kernel : testing
modem : XXDLK7
recovery : TWRP
MY NOTE 2 ROX.... ll b wait for note 3 my note 2 better than s4... :laugh:
praveen22 said:
I won't buy S4 over note 2 either. For someone owning S3, it might be an upgrade, though not a significant one. I am looking forward to note 3 though. I hope they won't increase the dimensions significantly. Am not a fan of aluminium body either, which is rumored for note 3. It increases weight. I buy a case for my device, so looks doesn't matter to me. I am fine with plastic. And rumor has it that screen will be plastic instead of glass. So it will thinner (more space for battery) and lighter. I hope the later is true, but its likely to be the other way round.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah those are just rumors. Won't happen. Samsung has clarified that aluminium is not practical for them with mass production and everything. And that's a good thing IMO - although not a dealbreaker, I don't like metal phones at all. Your hands get hot like crazy leaving you with sweaty palms, or you'll have freezing cold phone. Above all, easy to dent/scratch than plastic and hard to remove too. Regardless of their motive, thank god that Samsung isn't falling for the "cheap plastic" criticism and switching to metal.
I would not 'upgrade' to a S4 over my N2...N2 is just to awesome. The N3...maybe depending on what it has to offer, but that is my next possible upgrade.
The Note 2 It Is
I am not the least interested in the SGS4.
My Note 2 stays with me at least till the Note 3 comes out in 6-7 months. Also, the Note series are better specced phones compared with the S series.
I like the S4, but not enough to get rid of my Note 2. I do believe though that the S4 is a VERY good phone! I'd recommend it to anyone else who doesn't have an S3 or Note 2. Anyone with an S2 or any other device would fall in love with it! Heck, it made me even think about trading in my Note 2 for it ^.^ But it's not going to happen hehe. I love my Note 2. But that doesn't make the S4 any worse though! It's still a GREAT phone!
I'm waiting for the note 3. Hopefully it'll have a new design!
Sent from my GT-N7105
I've said the S4 was a downgrade all along.
Sent from my GT-N7105 using xda app-developers app
I won't be getting the S4 either. The ONLY reason though, is because of screen size. Everything else on the S4 is a definite upgrade! Had an S4 for 3 days and I loved it. Amazing screen.
The device I have considered switching for though, is the LG Optimus G Pro.
Jay-Taicho said:
I won't be getting the S4 either. The ONLY reason though, is because of screen size. Everything else on the S4 is a definite upgrade! Had an S4 for 3 days and I loved it. Amazing screen.
The device I have considered switching for though, is the LG Optimus G Pro.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lg make nice hardware that's for sure but they have no idea what an update is.
Sent from the mighty Note II
Csnt be arsed to research..am I correct in saying that these galaxy mega phones are bigger than note 2 but not better specs wise.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda premium

Not convinced by Note 3 and keeping S4?

Ok I have seen numerous people in my country selling their S4 to get the Note 3.
I have a One and still can't decide between S4 and Note 3,but when I see so much people running away from S4 and going to Note 3 I wonder if XDA real intelligent users will do?
Please vote in the poll
vegetaleb said:
Ok I have seen numerous people in my country selling their S4 to get the Note 3.
I have a One and still can't decide between S4 and Note 3,but when I see so much people running away from S4 and going to Note 3 I wonder if XDA real intelligent users will do?
Please vote in the poll
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally wouldn't choose Note 3 or any Note.
Why?
Because of size. The size of Note 3 is for a limited market.
vegetaleb said:
Ok I have seen numerous people in my country selling their S4 to get the Note 3.
I have a One and still can't decide between S4 and Note 3,but when I see so much people running away from S4 and going to Note 3 I wonder if XDA real intelligent users will do?
Please vote in the poll
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really happy with my S4, the screen seemed really big at first (coming from a Sensation with a 4.3" screen), but now I've gotten used to it, I think its the perfect size and wouldn't want to go bigger (already have a Nexus 7, so not much point) or smaller for that matter. Dont really fancy the back on the Note 3 either, although Im sure its probably easily swapped out.
stick with s4,save ur money for future alien invasion
Sent from my GT-I9500 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Note series are for a small niche market. You will have less ROM and less developers supporting it. Less user means less developers. I rather upgrade to a Nexus 5.
The Note 3 is too small to be a tablet and too big to be a phone. No regrets about buying the S4 and I will be keeping it, especially given that I only use CWM and never change my ROM via Odin or Kies so still have the non-Knox bootloader, unlike the Note 3.
This will be my last Samsung device however. I'm not being told I can't root my device by anyone.
There should be another option in the poll:-
I am keeping my S4 but this will be the final Samsung phone I will be buying.
S4 for now, until S5/ Note 4
this is EXACTLY what was going through my mind. I live in India and would get the exynos variantof Note3 if I had to get it.
now think it in the terms of the previous iteration by Sammy. The end user experience using a Note 2 was much much much better than the S3, but the gap diminished to a minuscule aperture in the case of S4 / Note 3 combo.
The hand recognition for S4,much manageable size is a good case for me to put any idea to get the Note 3, to rest.
There was a very weak thought through my mind to get the Note 3 cause of the supposedly HMP and core migration, but the Note 3 is in the same boat as the S4. higher clock speed is a "meh" .lol.
cannot say the same thing about the Snapdragon variant market though. for me, Note 3 is a good upgrade for the "Note" users. For those S3 or other flagship users who are wanting to upgrade, I think S4 is a "saner" choice.
Here in India, there is a price difference of around 11,000 INR. I don't think a leather looking plastic back panel is worth the price. :cyclops:
regards,
Achyut.
keeping S4 and choose between Nexus 5 or S5
i m definitely keeping my s4 as i have an old bootloader but i was actually considering to purchase a note 3 because i wanted a bigger screen and a better battery. Thankfully Samsung ****ed up the note 3 and this made my decision easier so as the soup nazi from seinfeld would say : no more Samsung for you.
Currently i m waiting for the nexus 5 and i have heard about the htc one max so let s wait and see the users reviews before rushing into another device .
difyel said:
i m definitely keeping my s4 as i have an old bootloader but i was actually considering to purchase a note 3 because i wanted a bigger screen and a better battery. Thankfully Samsung ****ed up the note 3 and this made my decision easier so as the soup nazi from seinfeld would say : no more Samsung for you.
Currently i m waiting for the nexus 5 and i have heard about the htc one max so let s wait and see the users reviews before rushing into another device .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will keep my S4 as well, ever since I’ve flashed a custom rom over the stock rom I am more than happy
and btw it's "No Samsung for you" (No soup for you!)
In two days I get my Sony xperia ultra z 6.4 inch :laugh:
difyel said:
i m definitely keeping my s4 as i have an old bootloader but i was actually considering to purchase a note 3 because i wanted a bigger screen and a better battery. Thankfully Samsung ****ed up the note 3 and this made my decision easier so as the soup nazi from seinfeld would say : no more Samsung for you.
Currently i m waiting for the nexus 5 and i have heard about the htc one max so let s wait and see the users reviews before rushing into another device .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would suggest not going for note series just coz of its size.after sometime it feels my hands felt uncomfortable holding it while talking.
Sent from my GT-I9500 Crash Rom 8.2
I do own S4 and N3 and I can tell that is a big difference between them. If you get comfortable with the size of note go with him. It's a way better product. By the way...I don't think that the note 3 will be less developed, Samsung will sell milions of them and there is a lot of people who just love the form factor and the abilities of the note series. I will keep anyday Note 3.
Sent from my C6802 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
for the average user I'd say the note of any kind is great as where I am many like to watch movies on it etc. but for myself and the many others on XDA, we like customization. I had a note 2 but sold if off for the s4. at first I thought it was a mistake but now i think its for the better. development wasn't that great on the note 2 forums and aosp roms don't really support the device much. the s4 seems to have more variety interms of hybrid tw roms as well as custom aosp roms and kernel support.
I have both and truly the SG Note 3 is simply a bigger screen S4 with a pen.
That said, I really like the bigger screen, and the pen makes life so much easier. But then again, I'm a bloke with big hands and the S4 keyboard is just a little too small for them. Allbmyvtxts lookvlike this.....
Like someone said,you can use the Note 3 for some minutes but holding it in your hand while walking for example is not a good idea because it's not ergonomic,if they had chose rounded borders instead of cubic a la S2 it would have been way better.
I had an S2 and ended swapping it with Sensation just because of that
Try G2
I just had the S4 a month ago and I'm EXTREMELY satisfied. Though I'd certainly would love to have a Note 3. Next year I might switch to the next iteration of the Note. The Galaxy line has vastly improved (also the Android platform and Android OEMs in general) so next year would probably be a great time to upgrade.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk
I would love to have Note 3 but i think its too big for my hands. :laugh:
I always wonder if I would find the note 3 too big for everyday use, Im quite tall and can palm a basketball with ease but somehow I feel it would still feel big and I would not get used to as people say they do.
Sent from my SGH-I337M using Tapatalk

Note 2 or S4

Hello, I'm upgrading soon and would like to know if anyone has experiences with both the Note 2 and S4. I know the spec differences and I'm leaning towards the Note. I would just like opinions of people the have used both. Thanks
Edit: sorry, needs to be moved to q&a section.
Sent from my Jelly Beaned Infuse 4G!
get the S4, so much better than the Note 2, it's faster, better camera, more pocketable, more pixels, better screen, higher ppi, better software, longer battery life and so on.
The only thing Note 2 has is the stylus.
S4 is definitely a better option while doing a direct comparison. Since the price is almost same for both the phones its a pretty valid question.
The are 2 departments in which note 2 excels:
1. Considerably Huge battery
2. Spen with handwriting recognition and a bunch of other features.
So decide accordingly. If u can live without these 2 features go for S4 without hesitating.
kuromusha38 said:
get the S4, so much better than the Note 2, it's faster, better camera, more pocketable, more pixels, better screen, higher ppi, better software, longer battery life and so on.
The only thing Note 2 has is the stylus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you say longer battery life? You sir need an intervention.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app
Note 2.... Hands down...
10 Months back i was in the same situation as u... but i opted Note 2 and very much satisfied that i made a right choice.
It's been 10 months now but i still don't feel need to upgrade to Note 3 either. This beast really rocks.
Now I've updated it to 4.3 as well, through OTA
S4 is a phone like all other phones, But Note 2 is "Note 2"
Note 2 FOREVER !It's very good
Inviato dal mio GT-N7100 utilizzando Tapatalk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEfG2K1EYlY
Used to be a S4 owner but i sold it to buy Note 2 and i don't regret.
S4 over Note 2
- better display quality but not a huge difference , our eyes cannot make such a big difference between their ppi's.
- better camera , here you can see the differences.
- newer software ( but honestly i still prefer android 4.3 instead of 4.4 )
Note 2 over S4
- way much better battery , around 6+ hours of screen on with 1h games + 1h talk + 80% of the day wi-fi on
- better gaming , since the display it's bigger
- nicer design
This is my opinion,i hope it will be helpful for you.
Thanks for the input everyone! I went ahead and pulled the trigger on the Note II. I went with my gut on the Infuse and that was a great phone, now I'm going with my gut again on the Note.
:fingers-crossed:
Forever Samsung Note series (N7100-N8000 10.1):good:
whtsoxfan1 said:
Thanks for the input everyone! I went ahead and pulled the trigger on the Note II. I went with my gut on the Infuse and that was a great phone, now I'm going with my gut again on the Note.
:fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome in our beloved n7100 forum. Congratulations :victory::victory::victory:
1 year and 3 months, don't regret buying it 1 single day.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app
★Note II = True beast, since 2012.
☆S4 = Performance house, since 2013.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Note 2 = improved usability, you have to spen practically a digital agenda
S4 = A modern smartphone
Now if you can buy, buy a note 3, the newest version of note 2 and much better than the S4
A Samsung Note Series is like a black dude.
Once you go black, you'll never go back mthrfkcr.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk
note 2 obviously
CZ of the 2 gb ram ..it's the the ultimate phone till now...i hope you have grabed one...use for 2-3 months and wait kit kat official update after that unlock the potentials in your device by rooting and putting custom rom
Go with Galaxy S4
Seriously? Please add some context. Both phones are good but they're meant for different people. Well, sort of.
S4 is a more "mainstream" phone. A phone nobody will have problem using. A phone that is "compact" and has all the features necessary and more. It is meant to act as a phone suitable for everybody.
Note 2,different story. Bigger screen, stylus and note taking apps etc. Do the math. Note is basically a phone originally meant to replace paper and pencil. Of course it's much more than that. In fact most of us buy it because it has bigger screen. Also it's kind of less "mainstream" if you ask me. Want to differ from the crowd? Lol just joking.
I got Note not because I have particularly large hands but I still enjoy a big screen and like taking notes etc and act all cool by using the stylus. Joking again, I find the stylus rather useful.
So there you go, pick your side. Note(pun not intented) that S4 Is one generation ahead(year older), but the under-the-hood differences aren't too notable if you ask me. Personally I love big screens. Makes power usage easy and fun. Sure the big screen can be a disadvantage sometimes, can't argue with that.
Sent from my panda
I would just wait another month and get S5 (almost as big as note 2, much better performance, but no stylus.... )
Almost as big as note 2?
Note 2 is 5.5"

[Q] Note 3 or S5 ?

Hey guys. Tomorrow I am going to buy a new phone and I am deciding between S5 and Note 3. I was going to buy the Note 3 when I just notice that In my countru the price of the Note 3 and S5 is absolutely Identical (32GB Note 3 and 16GB S5). So is the screen on the S5 really better or there isn't a big difference and how is the battery life on the both devices ? Is the Camera on the S5 better in low light or its the same as the note 3 ? Is the Speaker in the S5 better ?
niksssss said:
Hey guys. Tomorrow I am going to buy a new phone and I am deciding between S5 and Note 3. I was going to buy the Note 3 when I just notice that In my countru the price of the Note 3 and S5 is absolutely Identical (32GB Note 3 and 16GB S5). So is the screen on the S5 really better or there isn't a big difference and how is the battery life on the both devices ? Is the Camera on the S5 better in low light or its the same as the note 3 ? Is the Speaker in the S5 better ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From seeing both at my cellphone carrier's store:
- Note 3 has better speakers, must be because IP67 in S5.
- Screen is better, smaller looks sharper and definitely brighter.
- Can't tell about battery life, haven't had a Note 3 for much time. Reviewers put them in nearly equal terms with slight advantage to the S5 (AnandTech).
- Camera is good, but low light is a weakness... so they most likely are in the same ground. None has OIS.
- Both seem to have poor memory management, Note 3 has 3 GB of RAM though but S5 has newer, faster chipset.
I picked the S5 because of the more recent stock software (Touchwiz in S5 is quite better than the previous iteration IMHO) and the form factor, try them both if possible. The decision is more if you want a phablet or a normal factor.
For latest and 2014 software features and latest hardware go for s5. If u need pen phone and big screen then note 3, but I think note 3 is getting old as it is late 2013 phone. Note 4 is coming with more than s5 soon on September.
So you can wait for it too..
Sent from my Micromax A74 using XDA Free mobile app
Mandeep148 said:
For latest and 2014 software features and latest hardware go for s5. If u need pen phone and big screen then note 3, but I think note 3 is getting old as it is late 2013 phone. Note 4 is coming with more than s5 soon on September.
So you can wait for it too..
Sent from my Micromax A74 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was going to buy the S5 yesterday but I saw its back and it looks just awful and the phone feels like a cheap Chinese copy of a real samsung phone. The note 3 feels a bit better (the plastic actually feels like leather) and I like its looks a lot better. But then comes the Software and Hardware that is a lot better on the S5. I am really confused right now
I own both. Personally I much, much prefer the Note 3.
First some advice.
If you've got a few months left to wait, wait to see what the Note 4 is going to be. 1st week of September is when it'll be announced, should start selling early october. Also, the S5 Prime with top-specs is expected somewhere in the middle of the year. Wait for that, if you can. The current S5 is a joke.
So...
The camera on the S5 is a little better, it's IP67 and the colours on the screen are prettier. But that's about it.
The Note has a bigger screen. Yes, the S5 had a more saturated screen, but in my opinion bigger is more useful. Particularly for entertainment or multitasking.
The additional 16GB of internal storage is very, very relevant. 4.4.2 breaks moving apps to the SDcard, so you'll need it (unless you root, which breaks KNOX)
More RAM. 2GB vs 3GB. I know there are some who say "You don't need 2GB(It's actually less than that)". You do. The S5 has some horrendous lag, and the memory runs full very, very quickly.
The S5 has a slightly faster CPU (2.3Ghz vs 2.5Ghz), but the RAM is such a bottleneck that you barely notice the increase in speed. I can't for the life of me figure out why they would use only 2GB.
The Spen. Even if you're not a pen user, it comes with some nifty tools. Particularly the Pen Window is very useful, as it enables you to answer messages without switching away from your film or game. The pen also enables you to use your phone when eating, because you don't have to worry about greasy fingers on the screen.
The camera on the Note 3 is rather crap in low light. And I'm putting that nicely. It looks like an oil painting. The S5 has a slightly bigger sensor, making it a little better in low light.
And then there's the design. I can't help it, the S5 looks to me like something you buy as a toy for your 5 year old niece. It just looks so cheap. (particularly the White one..) At least the Note 3 looks like it costs 700 euro(releaseprice)...
Unless you're a fitness buff, I don't see the point of all those health gimmicks. There are functional heartrate apps that use the flashlight on the Note 3 and match the results of an actualy monitor besides it.
I do have to say the S5 is a little better at surviving drops and bumps. It can handle a bit more rough treatment. The Note 3 is fairly fragile by comparison. So if you lead an active lifestyle or are clumsy, and you don't want a case, an S5 might be a better idea.
All in all, I'd go with the Note 3 anyday. Bu tthat's my personal choice.
ShadowLea said:
I own both. Personally I much, much prefer the Note 3.
All in all, I'd go with the Note 3 anyday. Bu tthat's my personal choice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply. I am going to see them both at my local store and choose then. Also the S5 is kind of hard to find in my country.
niksssss said:
Thanks for the reply. I am going to see them both at my local store and choose then. Also the S5 is kind of hard to find in my country.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I agree that s5 feels cheap. But I think in mobile business no one company is perfect. Every company have their bad side and their popularity side.
S5 / Samsung don't concentrate on design, but Samsung software is really smart and mostly people like it. Its rich in features like hell.
Like I said every company have down and good side. In mobile business that is the main thing..
HTC and make premium design but simple software. But difference is HTC mostly good in sound music and simplycity but Sony good for camera. So depends upon you. That is business.
Sent from my Micromax A74 using XDA Free mobile app
Mandeep148 said:
Yes I agree that s5 feels cheap. But I think in mobile business no one company is perfect. Every company have their bad side and their popularity side.
S5 / Samsung don't concentrate on design, but Samsung software is really smart and mostly people like it. Its rich in features like hell.
Like I said every company have down and good side. In mobile business that is the main thing..
HTC and make premium design but simple software. But difference is HTC mostly good in sound music and simplycity but Sony good for camera. So depends upon you. That is business.
Sent from my Micromax A74 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A good point, but a bit of a moot one, since the choice is between the Samsung Note 3 and the Samsung S5...
Wait for n4 XD
Sent from my C6902 using xda app-developers app
The problem is that I cant wait. My HTC One broke and now I am using this - http://i-cdn.phonearena.com/images/phones/30779-xlarge/Nokia-100-3.jpg And I need my phone... not just for games and facebook, but for school. It helps me out a lot. And also phones in my country come a bit late. You can barely find S5 and its been a month since its release.
Also i checked both of the phones in the local store and I am in a even bigger dilemma now I see how the S-pen can come useful, but I find the note 3 a bit big for everyday use. Also The S5 seems kind of slow.. I dont know why but it even seems slower than my HTC One. The camera need a lot of time to open photos after I took them and usually this drives me crazy...
The things most important to me are:
1. Performance
2. Battery
3. Camera
My one usually did the job with the battery and the performance but the camera wasn't what I expected. It takes great shots but 4MP isnt enough for zooming and I often need to zoom my photos to read some text or other...
niksssss said:
The problem is that I cant wait. My HTC One broke and now I am using this - http://i-cdn.phonearena.com/images/phones/30779-xlarge/Nokia-100-3.jpg And I need my phone... not just for games and facebook, but for school. It helps me out a lot. And also phones in my country come a bit late. You can barely find S5 and its been a month since its release.
Also i checked both of the phones in the local store and I am in a even bigger dilemma now I see how the S-pen can come useful, but I find the note 3 a bit big for everyday use. Also The S5 seems kind of slow.. I dont know why but it even seems slower than my HTC One. The camera need a lot of time to open photos after I took them and usually this drives me crazy...
The things most important to me are:
1. Performance
2. Battery
3. Camera
My one usually did the job with the battery and the performance but the camera wasn't what I expected. It takes great shots but 4MP isnt enough for zooming and I often need to zoom my photos to read some text or other...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get n3 if you can't wait.
Also make sure you get snapdragon version of it, exynos sucks big time. I was looking forward to n3 but didn't buy because SD ain't available in my country.
Sent from my C6902 using xda app-developers app
S5 easy for one hand use. Note 3 is too big
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
For you to compare:
http://blog.laptopmag.com/galaxy-s5-vs-note-3
The 32GB of the Note3 is good. The S5 is easy to find in 16Gb but 32GB would be better but hard to find and more expensive. Go with Note3 or wait for N4. Also consider OnePlus one or Oppo Find if you can wait.
Sent from my SM-9500N using Tapatalk Pro.
If you find my post useful, a click on the 'thanks' is appreciated.
Are You serious? Once time You will taste 5 inch + screen You will stay with it forever, if I had to choose s5 and note1 I will take note1.Spen is powerfull.. Actually I Got note2 and im not even thinking about s4/s5. Im thinking about note4,
You will use it at school, take note, even the name of phone is an answer, Im making my lessons on that phone,
sorry for my English im not the Best at it
And sometimes it works like magnet for girls..
Wysłane z mojego GT-N7100 przy użyciu Tapatalka
Get the note 3 if you dont mind a larger device. basically get the same phone, minus finger print sensor and heartrate monitor. Except you can get 32gb for the price of 16gb.
graco2213 said:
Are You serious? Once time You will taste 5 inch + screen You will stay with it forever,
Wysłane z mojego GT-N7100 przy użyciu Tapatalka
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but S5 is also a 5 inch + screen lol...
Just go for the latest.
Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk
Hmmm... If you have issues with your own "size", go with the note 3, just as you did when you got the big screen and truck. Or if you're a "size queen" as they're called, go for a note 3. But if you like the finger print gimmick, I pretty much do, or like me sometimes find yourself on hallucinogenic escapades that take you at times in the rain, shower/bath or under waterfalls, the ip6 whatever the rest of it is, will come in handy. Man, everyone talking about the lag, I sure wish I didn't agree. There must be a solution. Off to another sub forum. I want to find the solution. Chime in if any of you know of a rom/trick that speeds this phone up.
Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk
Guys. Thanks for the info but I already got the S5. I got it becouse it's a bit smaller device and the Note 3's camera in low light is alful. Also note 3 has 13MP but you can use the camera in 16:9 aspect ratio only on 10MP. On the S5 the 16MP are 16:9. I will miss the s-pen but thats the only thing that I will miss. I also got the s5 becouse I think that it will recieve faster updates. I find the S5 a bit slow (even slower than my one) and also not a big fan of touchwiz. (I didnt think that I will miss sense so much) But overall im happy with the S5 becouse the battery lasts more than twice than my old HTC one and the battery was the most important thing to me.
Sent from my SM-G900F using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

OK. The Galaxy S6 edge rocks.

(It's not the note 4 but I think it's relevant here; are you gonna get it?)
We're up and the hall is PACKED. Everyone is on their devices.
A woman in tight business suit and high heels comes on stage and welcomes CEO. He has the phone in his his pocket.
Relentless Innovation. We listened, we learned, we pushed forward. We rebuilt from the ground up. The most beautiful phone Samsung have ever produced and the most advanced one in the world.
The screens that go the ENTIRE way around the hall burst into life, aaaaand....
The pictures are exactly as leaked!
As has been the discussion all week, it's the curve that they're pushing - and yes, it's gorgeous. The detail is seamless.
It remains to be seen what they're going to do with the none-curved version.
The pricing will dictate whether or not the S6 flies off the shelf - and it's availability.
I think they should have released just the curve.
There you have it.
The curve is gorgeous. Absolutely. The detail is very precise. The plain S6 is plain ugly.
And the light-up notifications thing on the edge is tickling ALL the journalists.
Will you stick to the Note 4, or switch?
Let the games begin.
Sent from my LG-D802 using XDA Premium HD app
Sent from my LG-D802 using XDA Premium HD app
kolembo said:
(It's not the note 4 but I think it's relevant here; are you gonna get it?)
We're up and the hall is PACKED. Everyone is on their devices.
A woman in tight business suit and high heels comes on stage and welcomes CEO. He has the phone in his his pocket.
Relentless Innovation. We listened, we learned, we pushed forward. We rebuilt from the ground up. The most beautiful phone Samsung have ever produced and the most advanced one in the world.
The screens that go the ENTIRE way around the hall burst into life, aaaaand....
The pictures are exactly as leaked!
As has been the discussion all week, it's the curve that they're pushing - and yes, it's gorgeous. The detail is seamless.
It remains to be seen what they're going to do with the none-curved version.
The pricing will dictate whether or not the S6 flies off the shelf - and it's availability.
I think they should have released just the curve.
There you have it.
The curve is gorgeous. Absolutely. The detail is very precise. The plain S6 is plain ugly.
And the light-up notifications thing on the edge is tickling ALL the journalists.
Will you stick to the Note 4, or switch?
Let the games begin.
Sent from my LG-D802 using XDA Premium HD app
Sent from my LG-D802 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Regarding the S6, I don't feel the glass back and the camera sticking out as on the iPhone 6 and 6 plus...Also software wise it does look smoother but the size of the icons and the whole UI looks kinda ugly, especially the percentage bar, it's just too big...also non removable battery is a miss.
If only the note 4 would somewhat benefit from the S6's software
I think Ill stick.Note 4 has got looks but hey s6 looks like iphone 6 same rounded metal frame,same speaker style,same protruding volume buttons.Although s6 edge could be worthy to switch over but can be cleared only when they are available in stores.Except processor Note 4 has an upper hand
Sent from my SM-N910G using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I really like the design they've chosen! I've always been jealous of iPhone smooth and clean designs, now there's a similar design from Samsung. No need to get iPhone knock-offs from China with android running.
But I'll still keep my Note 4.
- 5MP Front camera, not my thing, I don't care abt selfies and Note 4's 2MP 3.7MP (Edited) works well for video chat even at low light.
-No SD-Card slot... Bumper.. The choice for buying cheap128GB SD card to store media and easily transfering between devices has been a great advantage for Samsung phones, it will be missed
(Cuz 128 GB ver. Of S6 will be much more expensive than just getting basic 32GB + 128GB SD Card)
-Wireless charging, not an issue... I put in a wireless charging receiver pad and can use qi chargers to charge. No extra bulk.
-5.7" screen of Note 4 will be much better for viewing any media!
-S-Pen... Nuff Said.
However, these are the plus points of S6,
-Speaker at the bottom! Would prefer front facing but at least better than at the back...
- Touch finger print! I've no issues with Note 4's swiping sensor, been using wit great accuracy for months... But the new one might reduce the error rate.
- Double curves on display (S6 Edge)... Its just look smooth and sexy. Less awkward than Note 4 Edge.
-eMMC faster flash memory... Hopefully it'll be like changing from a tradiotinal hardisk to an SSD. With how Lollipop's ART runtime works (fully unpacked apps), S6 will be a beast.
-Exynos for all! Will be a great performer hopefully. Although, custom firmware will be lesser, snapdragon 810 on Note 4 is one of its draw backs. Hope the Exynos will not throttle its performance so much.
Sorry for the long post. Still great devices by Samsung.
Sent from my SM-N910G using XDA Free mobile app
psycovirus said:
I really like the design they've chosen! I've always been jealous of iPhone smooth and clean designs, now there's a similar design from Samsung. No need to get iPhone knock-offs from China with android running.
But I'll still keep my Note 4.
- 5MP Front camera, not my thing, I don't care abt selfies and Note 4's 2MP works well for video chat even at low light.
-No SD-Card slot... Bumper.. The choice for buying cheap128GB SD card to store media and easily transfering between devices has been a great advantage for Samsung phones, it will be missed
(Cuz 128 GB ver. Of S6 will be much more expensive than just getting basic 32GB + 128GB SD Card)
-Wireless charging, not an issue... I put in a wireless charging receiver pad and can use qi chargers to charge. No extra bulk.
-5.7" screen of Note 4 will be much better for viewing any media!
-S-Pen... Nuff Said.
However, these are the plus points of S6,
-Speaker at the bottom! Would prefer front facing but at least better than at the back...
- Touch finger print! I've no issues with Note 4's swiping sensor, been using wit great accuracy for months... But the new one might reduce the error rate.
- Double curves on display (S6 Edge)... Its just look smooth and sexy. Less awkward than Note 4 Edge.
-eMMC faster flash memory... Hopefully it'll be like changing from a tradiotinal hardisk to an SSD. With how Lollipop's ART runtime works (fully unpacked apps), S6 will be a beast.
-Exynos for all! Will be a great performer hopefully. Although, custom firmware will be lesser, snapdragon 810 on Note 4 is one of its draw backs. Hope the Exynos will not throttle its performance so much.
Sorry for the long post. Still great devices by Samsung.
Sent from my SM-N910G using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Note 4 has a 3.7MP front camera...
The only thing which I like on the S6 is the 64bit processor, new camera UI and the speaker on the bottom.
Without microsd, its crap.
toofimoofi said:
Without microsd, its crap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I originally thought that too, but when I really think about it, I could actually do without the MicroSD. For sale, Note 4U with extra battery, 2 cases, Gear VR, used once, for best offer!! Nuff said!
I like it, but there is no s pen do I don't think it can replace my Note 4.
Definitely much more compelling than the s5 though, which made me yawn.
I'll stick with note 4 ofc.
But if they won't give that better touchwiz to note 4. I won't probably buy another Samsung phone again. limiting exynos 5433 to 32 bit another retarded thing too.
toofimoofi said:
Without microsd, its crap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Lets not forget the battery is a smaller 2600mAh unit vs. 2800mAh in the S5, don't even dare give me the CPU is more efficient BS, once you get Facebook, Chrome and Instagram going all that stuff becomes typical marketing talk, and you realise the advantage of a much larger batt.
I'll keep my Note 4 thanks, I just hope the Note 5 doesn't go the same way or I'll be very disappointed.
POLO_i780 said:
+1
Lets not forget the battery is a smaller 2600mAh unit vs. 2800mAh in the S5, don't even dare give me the CPU is more efficient BS, once you get Facebook, Chrome and Instagram going all that stuff becomes typical marketing talk, and you realise the advantage of a much larger batt.
I'll keep my Note 4 thanks, I just hope the Note 5 doesn't go the same way or I'll be very disappointed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
battery will be probably same with s5.
M glad i left S series at S3. Samsung started distroying it after that. Not worth. The true class in note series.
Sent from Galaxy Note 3 (The beauty & beast)
POLO_i780 said:
+1
Lets not forget the battery is a smaller 2600mAh unit vs. 2800mAh in the S5, don't even dare give me the CPU is more efficient BS, once you get Facebook, Chrome and Instagram going all that stuff becomes typical marketing talk, and you realise the advantage of a much larger batt.
I'll keep my Note 4 thanks, I just hope the Note 5 doesn't go the same way or I'll be very disappointed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The battery is actually 2550mAh but it will probably be on pair with the galaxy s5 and the note 4...
Staying with my note 4
Ashatar said:
The battery is actually 2550mAh but it will probably be on pair with the galaxy s5 and the note 4...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
s5 and note 4 has different battery life. it can just reach s5. probably 5 hour sot will be most for s6.
Waiting for note 5
You all know if the s6 is this good, the note 5 will be twice as good. I love the note 4 because it was a real upgrade from the note 3. Screen, CPu and Gpu. The s6, yes with 64bit with nothing that will use it, the note 5 will come out when there will be software that will use it.
The note 4 is my baby till it dies. I really do not see the need for another phone that will do nothing better on day to day activities.
More so, I really hope Samsung gives us the new tw unlike what they do normally. Which is they may upgrade Android versions but they rarely upgrade tw on older devices
jetbruceli said:
You all know if the s6 is this good, the note 5 will be twice as good. I love the note 4 because it was a real upgrade from the note 3. Screen, CPu and Gpu. The s6, yes with 64bit with nothing that will use it, the note 5 will come out when there will be software that will use it.
The note 4 is my baby till it dies. I really do not see the need for another phone that will do nothing better on day to day activities.
More so, I really hope Samsung gives us the new tw unlike what they do normally. Which is they may upgrade Android versions but they rarely upgrade tw on older devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'd be great if they give us 5.0.2 with the new touchwiz but i doubt that will happen...
You never know, maybe that's one of the reasons for the lack of lollipop on the Note 4 so far (optimising TW)...I hope.
Happy the S6 looks good. Samsung has two ticks a year.
I always keep my phones for two years so I'll pass.

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