Database Users

People who have switched from another 2013 flagship to the Moto X

I continue to hear only good things about the Moto X and I'm tempted to pick one up at the $350 sale price. I currently have a Droid DNA (which is on par with the 2013 flagships) running Sense 5 - it works well but has it's annoyances, however I don't know if it will actually be a good idea to upgrade from. My thoughts/concerns:
-Size: Going from a 5" 1080p screen to a 4.7" 720p screen is going to be a big change, especially since the Moto X screen is actually about 4.3" with the on screen buttons. However, I've found the DNA to be too big sometimes (especially with the power button on the top, it's my biggest annoyance) so I may like the slight downsize.
-Camera: The DNA takes great pictures, and I love the Sense 5 camera. The Moto X camera however sounds like its below average, so this would be a clear downgrade.
-Wireless Charging: Having a Nexus 7 and DNA I rarely plug anything in anymore. I've got 3 chargers between my house and office so this would be another adjustment with the Moto X.
-Root: I don't care abut an unlocked bootloader but I need root (TiBu, Greenify, Tasker). I wasn't planning on getting the DE (too late now anyways) but the hassles of getting root with each update worries me.
Those things are my biggest concerns. I'm very much interested in Moto X's software features and quick updates though (among other things). I've thought about just getting a Droid Maxx (keep the big screen and wireless charging) but not for $150 more and slower updates.
Also, I'm the kind of person that switches phones about every 6 months (buying/selling used usually). I get bored or I find something that annoys me about a device. The DNA's resale value is dropping real quick (from $300 a few months ago to just over $200 now) so the sooner I sell the better probably.
So, for anyone that's come from an S4, One, G2, etc - do you regret it? Can anyone sway me one way or another?

I came from an s4 and don't regret it in the least. Actually, I do miss the ir blaster a bit, but that's it.
Sent from my XT1060 using xda app-developers app

I came from an S4 and G2. I honestly don't miss those devices. They're definitely powerhouses but the Moto X is just an all around better device...for me at least. The difference from 1080p to 720p isn't that noticeable since the ppi is still high on the X. If you compare both side by side and zoom in on stuff then yea you're bound to notice something. The camera is pretty good. You can check out the picture thread in this section to see some pics. I have the dev edition so rooting is easy but I'm sure the regular ones will be rootable with future updates especially if more devs get this device with the sale.
Sent from my XT1060

Im very happy with Moto X. I have had (this year) Note 2, Razr Maxx, SG4, HTC ONE and LG G2. Size and features are what did it for me.

I think the two biggest things that are likely to disappoint people coming from a flagship phone to the Moto X are going to be the camera (mediocre, especially in low-light settings) and the AMOLED display (extremely saturated, this is moreso going to be the case for people coming from LCD screens like the Nexus 5).

I came from a Nexus 4, to a Nexus 5 for almost a couple week, then to the Moto X. I am loving it so far. Like you, I've been so used to wireless charger and this is probably the only feature I kind of miss.
Size was actually one of the deciding factor for me. Nexus 5 was slightly too big for my taste. The size and the build quality makes this a really nice phone to use.
Camera is not so great on the Moto X, but is more than what I need. The Nexus lines never had great cameras, either. Not sure how it compares to a DNA.
Ultimately for me, active notification and Moto Maker are the features that make me switch to Moto X. Maybe it should for you, too?

I bought a DE yesterday and I currently have a One. I am anxious to see as well as the One can sometimes be too large for my liking especially with the power button on top. I am thinking the screen and the aluminum body are going to be the only things I miss - the dev support on the One has been great lately too though.

I came from a Note 3, and the software on the X is just so much better. I always feel like I'm using Gingerbread when I use Touchwiz, but the X is a very nice 4.2.2 experience. The Active Notifications are wonderful as well!
I think the thing to remember about the X, is that you must look past the hardware. Its hardware really isn't great, but the software is like a testbed of all of Google's neat ideas that they didn't want to test in the Nexus line.

I ordered one of the VZW developer versions yesterday, and I am excited to switch from my GS3. However, I do hope development picks up after this sale because I can't seem to find much for this phone.
But rest assured that out of the box, due to the AOSP nature of the phone, it will feel smooth and speedy compared to many other flagship phones.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

http://www.averytuttle.com/
I am kinda of afraid to switch from s4. I am on custom ROM 4.3 and kernel with all the goodies and tweaked screen colors to my liking. Camera quality is obviously good, screen is near perfect, some development in forum, battery is very good on S4, everything works with 0 bugs.
I like moto x design and feel, don't care about specs, but I do care about those too blue or too yellow screens and as well as camera quality. Some photos I've seen at link above of moto x are horrible.

I came to the X from Nexus 4/5 because of the common sense design, and I am hopeful the industry takes note of its success. It seems most phones are going out of their way to employ technology solutions that are looking for a problem.
Design the phone to fit your hand, duh! Ever picked up a Samsung device?
We pull these out and turn them on a hundred times a day... one button at the top right to do this is silly. And voice commands are great, but if you have to pull out your phone and turn it on to execute them... well, you get my point.
And while we should all keep phones locked when out and about, having to always enter your pin is tiresome. Kudos to Apple fingerprint scanner, but trusted Bluetooth and nfc is even more convenient.
And I don't use my phone for photography... I have an slr around my neck when I want to take pictures. To me, phone cams are for capturing a moment you weren't planning on, and hence need to do it as quickly as possible.
These are the common sense issues the Moto X addresses that other phones don't. Hopefully the X2 will address even more.
Yes, I will miss some aspects of the Nexus 5, but I don't use any of those a dozen times a day. Wireless charging is probably the most missed. I am done with the spec race, and want a phone that works better.
While you can have a cool titanium and composite hammer, if it is not weighted effectively for the task of driving nails, it's of less use than an old steel one.

I came from a G2 and before that a S4. I don't miss the S4 one bit, I do like the G2 like its knock knock feature and its form factor is nice (big yeti hands). But other than that I don't miss either of the phones over the Moto X. I will be ordering a Moto X DE today or on the 9th so my wife can get the Moto X I currently have and I get a DE device. She is currently using the S4 and before that she and I were GNex users. She is liking the S4 but she was instantly drawn to the Moto X the evening I picked it up from the VZW store.
The display on the S4 was nice to me. The G2 is just plain sexy and blew away the S4 IMO. The Moto X screen is nothing to laugh at. I do like the G2 display over the Moto X but not enough to make it a show stopper.
The form factor of the S4 was not bad, the size was not a factor with it, the same with the G2. I did like the G2 over the S4 as it felt not as cheap. The Moto X form factor and build quality puts Samsung and LG to shame. The Moto X feels solid, they went back to their roots on this one. Makes me feel like I got the awesomeness of the Droid 1 and the Droid X and not the joke quality of the Bionic. I am not afraid of the Moto X might break when I hold it like I did the S4.
Speed wise.. The S4 blew my GNex out of the water, very fast and once I put CleanROM, Eclipse, or CM 10.2 on it the slight home stutter of the horrible TouchWiz launcher was gone. The G2 to me made the S4 feel sluggish and just not as spunky as it should be. With the G2 I am pretty much stock of the factory software but I did root it to debloat it and to also use G2 Xposed on it for the proper button placement that I like.
The Moto X is holding its own and I feel it is able to run against the G2 with everything I do in a days time. It is also able to do the gaming I like with no issues what so ever. Now if you do testing and all that then you will not see any of this based on those numbers. But if you actually use the device you will see it is not an issue.
The camera on the Moto X compared to the S4 is good. Comparing it to the stock camera on the G2 I feel the Moto X beats the hell out of it. Now with the Camera MODs for the G2 that are out then I will say the G2 is better way better. Comparing the Moto X camera to the N4 and I feel the N4 is better. But to be honest if I want a good picture then I will ask my wife to use her DSLR camera and take the picture for me. but for a camera phone it works. My smartphone camera-fu is not as strong as most but I might as well not even enter the race if you want me to talk camera with you. But for a typical user I can take a good picture and it does its job. Compare my camera shots to my wife camera shots using the same hardware and she beats me every time. Her take on the smartphone cameras are they are good for when you need a quick pic here and there but she prefers to take pictures with her DSLR camera over anything else.
You will not miss your phone when you switch to the Moto X. I am loving the near stock of Android on this device and I do like some of the features from Moto like the assist, trusted devices, active notifications, and the Motorola connect which replaced airdroid for me. Motorola is back to doing things right so far with the Moto X. Battery life is great with the Moto X as I am a pretty heavy data user with streaming media, web browsing, XDA, Reddit. I do about 10-60+ minutes of calls a day along with checking multiple gmail/email accounts. Screen is on 2+ hours everyday and I can go a full day on one charge and have just a pinch left over. With the GNex it was only possible with 3 extra batteries or a plug. The S4 could almost last the day but needed some power loving during lunch. The G2 could last till I got into the car and plug it in at the end of the day for me. The Moto X as I stated does last through my work day without the need of a charger near me as long as I don't go over a 12 hour work day with 2-3 hours in the car for driving to and from work. I am going to pick up one of the Moto battery packs as it is slim and doesnt take up a lot of room for those few days I go past 12hours.
Sorry for the wall of text but hope this helps you out.

Thanks for the responses everyone. I'm going to stop by the Verizon store today to play with one but I'm thinking I'll just try and get one tomorrow during the sale. If for some reason I really don't like it, I can always return it or sell it for near cost. Kind of makes me wish I got the DE yesterday so I wouldn't have any root worries, but I don't need the extra 16GB and I'm looking forward to having a custom designed phone. The community has always prevailed anyways.

@Ainvar thanks
although i am surprised you say N4 camera was better then Moto X, I tought N4 wasn't good at all compared to S4. I am not a fan of taking pictures with phone, but all my N4 pictures went straight to trash while some S4 pictures are keepers for sure.

I'd say the Moto X camera is between the N4 and N5 personally. Moto X camera is inconsistent and produces more grainier photos than N5 in my usage.

here is more camera comparison. (note: s4 with google camera, not TW)
http://www.droid-life.com/2013/09/23/moto-x-camera-update-new-vs-old/

PeterGunz said:
I do hope development picks up after this sale because I can't seem to find much for this phone.
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i really think part of the reason there's less development is that the phone is nearly perfect out of the box. I got my dev x before any sales and was looking for any reason to return it and couldn't find any

Well I just found out touchless controls don't work if you use a lock pattern or pin. So that's kind of a bummer. But I really liked how the phone felt in the store, and with free returns its pretty much a no risk chance to try it for 2 weeks.

Came from a DNA myself and an very pleased with my X. I'm already looking forward to a second-generation model. That said, the only thing I miss from my DNA was the burst mode picture capture which is replicated in this phone's software but not implemented as well.

I can from a DNA and a LG G2 and honestly, the only thing I really miss is the wireless charging. I still use my DNA from time to time (recently giving it to my bro since he broke his windows phone) and the screen is giant compared the moto x but for day to day use, its not noticeable.

Are you happy with it?

So through a whole of problems with the GS4, and a little stroke of luck, I happened upon a Moto X 2014. I must say, the phone is smooth as butter. But I still feel like something is missing. My battery isn't a great feet, my camera is poor at best. The phone however is the fastest and smoothest I've ever seen an android phone. It makes me melt. But after using the LG G2 which I had for 2 days before this....I miss it comparatively to this. Just as fast, much larger battery, beautiful screen. The Moto X doesn't even have a "power save" feature, and that would at lest be helpful. I almost want to wait for the Droid Turbo, but by then my 14 days would be up. I'm just not sure what to do. So my question to others.....Are you happy with this device? or would you switch, given the opportunity? If so, to what?

In happy, if the camera was better, I would be happier, but I'll hold out for L in hopes of improved camera performance. If not, I have another upgrade in April, maybe grab a turbo if it doesn't look as bad as it has in the leaked photos.

I'm think off going back the LG G2. The camera may be the breaking point for me.
Sent from my XT1096 using XDA Free mobile app

I don't take many pictures, but the ones I have taken have been fine. On par with a majority of the smart phones I have owned except a few that were above average. Most of them are just "meh" and any difference is still not great so I just don't let it get to me. If pictures were priority I would still be on the Lumia 930 hands down, or maybe the iPhone 6 plus, but not most of the Android handsets available that's for sure.
Overall I love the phone though. It just a great phone to use and really when it comes down to it that is what matters. There are things that could use improvement (screen brightness, camera, battery life). But none of those factors are BAD, just not exceptional. I get through a day with ease and the screen is fine except in bright sunlight. The phone makes up for it with a great feel and ease of use. Its super fast and fluid, and little things like ActiveDisplay just make it all that much better of an experience. Of all the phones I have owned in the last year (a lot) it is the first one I feel content with and not pining for a new phone (which is rare for me). I am excited for Android L .

I love my Moto X. I too came from a Galaxy S4 running CyanogenMOD and this is so smooth without having to do any tweaking whatsoever. I've had this phone for 11 days and I already try to wave my hand over other people's phones and expect it to just turn on when I pick it up. These may be new features I can't live without.

Short answer....best phone I have ever owned
I came from the HTC One, HTC One M8, and LG G3. Also had the Nexus 5 as my daily driver before leaving it for LG G3. ... This phone trumps them all (still use m8 for low light photos)
The bad......nothing really. The camera and battery are decent enough.....just nothing to brag on.
As far as performance....nothing is close. So smooth...so fast.....so fluid.
The phone screen looks amazing and the stereo headphone jack is provides the best sound I have heard outside of the HTCOne.
No phone is perfect.....but this phone came very close

I think it's too top heavy and not comfortable to hold. Maybe cuz I got leather and have a subconscious fear of scratching it or something. Ultimately, its fate w/me is doomed due to no root on verizon.
I'll give up the X if nexus comes out on verizon.

soundneedle said:
I think it's too top heavy and not comfortable to hold. Maybe cuz I got leather and have a subconscious fear of scratching it or something. Ultimately, its fate w/me is doomed due to no root on verizon.
I'll give up the X if nexus comes out on verizon.
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This is the only downfall for me as well. I want gravitybox so bad. Just for the PIE controls so I can hide the nav bar. That extra screen real estate along with the one handed reachability would make this phone perfect for me.
I don't care about the camera quality, not a big deal for me. And the battery life is sufficient for me.

ChristianPreachr said:
So through a whole of problems with the GS4, and a little stroke of luck, I happened upon a Moto X 2014. I must say, the phone is smooth as butter. But I still feel like something is missing. My battery isn't a great feet, my camera is poor at best. The phone however is the fastest and smoothest I've ever seen an android phone. It makes me melt. But after using the LG G2 which I had for 2 days before this....I miss it comparatively to this. Just as fast, much larger battery, beautiful screen. The Moto X doesn't even have a "power save" feature, and that would at lest be helpful. I almost want to wait for the Droid Turbo, but by then my 14 days would be up. I'm just not sure what to do. So my question to others.....Are you happy with this device? or would you switch, given the opportunity? If so, to what?
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Click to collapse
you'll be happy that L will bring this:
1. power saver built in
2. native code for camera stuff
3. project volt, which is supposed to help in battery
4. ...and much more
right now, there is nothing on the market that I want. so no, i would not switch. next year, maybe

after a week or so of using its okay. battery life sucks, i dont care about the camera, not sure why but many apps crash on it more than my nexus 5, and i can barely just barely see some hiccups/lag when navigating through the homescreen and some apps ill wait for android L tho

FLUFFYMANGOES said:
after a week or so of using its okay. battery life sucks, i dont care about the camera, not sure why but many apps crash on it more than my nexus 5, and i can barely just barely see some hiccups/lag when navigating through the homescreen and some apps ill wait for android L tho
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Do you have ART enabled?

This phone is not top heavy, the center of its mass is right in the middle of the phone.
Just balance it on the index finger and you will see.
Best phone I used so far as well. But I never had any flagship devices before. Just a last years moto x, moto g, galaxy i9070... and an HTC one m8 as a phone for work, that's it.
But I saw many friends struggling with flagships while I was enjoying my moto x 2013.
I gave the HTC one m8 back to my boss and use the mx2013 now for my work and the mx2014 for private uses.
The mx2013 gave me an excellent experience, so I had no other choice than buying its successor.
BTW I hated the m8 even compared to the mx2013.
If Motorola doesn't **** it up, I'll buy their devices for a long time.

I could not be happier
Battery life could be bettet but ive yet to run out of it after a full day of work

How do you enable ART and what does it change? I assume this is the ART vs dalvik thing?
Sent from my XT1096 using XDA Free mobile app

ChristianPreachr said:
How do you enable ART and what does it change? I assume this is the ART vs dalvik thing?
Sent from my XT1096 using XDA Free mobile app
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It's in developer options. Don't enable it. Several users have reported an increase in force closes.

It's a bigger, faster, smoother moto x. If you liked the 2013 x but wanted something bigger, this will make you happy.

I like it, originally I let all the negative reviews get to me and even went back to my nexus 5 for a day. Then I realized how much nicer the moto x is. Its a great well rounded device. Unlocked bootloader with full warranty in tact, good camera, decent battery life, fast updates, near aosp and other great specs. Oh, and every time I'm on the phone I can smell wonderful leather lol.

robstunner said:
I like it, originally I let all the negative reviews get to me and even went back to my nexus 5 for a day. Then I realized how much nicer the moto x is. Its a great well rounded device. Unlocked bootloader with full warranty in tact, good camera, decent battery life, fast updates, near aosp and other great specs. Oh, and every time I'm on the phone I can smell wonderful leather lol.
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Unlocking the boot loader on the pure edition does not void the warranty? I have heard it does not but not sure.
sent from my 2014 moto X

jmtjr278 said:
Unlocking the boot loader on the pure edition does not void the warranty? I have heard it does not but not sure.
sent from my 2014 moto X
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That's what I read from the Motorola feedback network administrator, he said they are "treating the pure edition like the 2013 Dev edition."

I love it, but I am interested in seeing what the Turbo and Nexus 6 bring to table, especially since it'll be on VZW. That being said, jumping to 5.2" from 4.7" was noticeable, can't really imagine carrying around 5.96"...

Moto X (2014) vs Nexus 5

So I have the choice of either getting a Nexus 5 or a Moto X (2014) but on paper these two phones are pretty good, not much between them. I really don't know which to get. So for those of you who have used both or at least one of these devices, what are you opinions on them and which do you prefer? Hopefully this will help others too!
I'm mainly looking at these categories:
- General Usage
- Durability
- Accessories (I've noticed currently there's not that many screen protectors for the Moto X plus there being issues with tempered glass)
I original had the Nexus 5 but it broke. Really badly. The repearability of the Nexus 5 is not good and now my phone just no longer works. Should I stick to the same or try something new?

Why would you get a nexus 5 when the 6 is available? no matter what a phone is going to break if you don't take care of it. you don't need a screen protector the the moto x. the glass is nearly impossible to scratch since it's gorilla glass 3. take care of your phone and you won't have to worry about it breaking. other than that, there are over a thousand spec comparisons between the two phones on the web.

stastnysnipes26 said:
Why would you get a nexus 5 when the 6 is available? no matter what a phone is going to break if you don't take care of it. you don't need a screen protector the the moto x. the glass is nearly impossible to scratch since it's gorilla glass 3. take care of your phone and you won't have to worry about it breaking. other than that, there are over a thousand spec comparisons between the two phones on the web.
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See I'm not all about specs and hardware, more about personal user experience with the device. Accidents happen, I took really good care of my Nexus 5 but it fell out of my hands because of someone else mucking about around me.
The Nexus 6 is way too big for me. I loved using my Nexus 5 and I would happily buy it again but the Moto X looks very appealing. I'm all about stock android so.

I currently own both, and now that I've gotten a Moto X 2014, i won't be going back.
The build quality alone makes it a better option. It FEELS so good in the hand, and that weight...UGH!! so nice.....
The Nexus 5 has only 1 leg up on the moto x, and thats qi charging. BUT, i'm thinking of getting a bluboon *spelling* receiver and trying that out...we will see.....
the moto takes better pics imho and has slomo recording!!
go with the X, you won't regret it....the battery life is the same and with 5.0 we will get project volt and won't need bigger batteries anyway....

Thedonk13 said:
I currently own both, and now that I've gotten a Moto X 2014, i won't be going back.
The build quality alone makes it a better option. It FEELS so good in the hand, and that weight...UGH!! so nice.....
The Nexus 5 has only 1 leg up on the moto x, and thats qi charging. BUT, i'm thinking of getting a bluboon *spelling* receiver and trying that out...we will see.....
the moto takes better pics imho and has slomo recording!!
go with the X, you won't regret it....the battery life is the same and with 5.0 we will get project volt and won't need bigger batteries anyway....
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Click to collapse
This guy really nailed it for the main part. QI charging is deal breaker for some but I don't care. I don't mind plugging it in since I can use it while plugged in but if it has to sit in charger, I can't really use it comfortably. I've had multiple N5s since I enjoy stock Android but I keep going back to Motorola since they've added some very nice features to just bring that little extra that you flashed roms for.
Build quality, radio, reception, screen (IMHO), feel in hand, camera (slightly, not software) and loud speaker kill N5 any day. Moto X 2014 is not a perfect phone but LG build quality is the worst. Loud speaker and radio/reception on N5 is a joke IMHO.

When I had my 2013 moto x, I decided to try the Nexus 5. Bought it, it arrived, toyed with it for 5 mins, then promptly put it back in the box to sell it to a friend. I thought the 2013 X was better than the N5 off usability features alone. The 2014 X completely dominates the N5.
Better ergonomics
WAYYYYYY better speakers
Better reception
Customizable
Moto Display+Voice
The only thing the N5 has over the X is the well-calibrated LCD screen.

noobsquared said:
This guy really nailed it for the main part. QI charging is deal breaker for some but I don't care. I don't mind plugging it in since I can use it while plugged in but if it has to sit in charger, I can't really use it comfortably. I've had multiple N5s since I enjoy stock Android but I keep going back to Motorola since they've added some very nice features to just bring that little extra that you flashed roms for.
Build quality, radio, reception, screen (IMHO), feel in hand, camera (slightly, not software) and loud speaker kill N5 any day. Moto X 2014 is not a perfect phone but LG build quality is the worst. Loud speaker and radio/reception on N5 is a joke IMHO.
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Totally forgot to mention the loud speaker... It's amazing how loud it really is. I also owned an M8 (hated sense) and Moto isn't "better" but it is really really close. Actually wakes me up when I need it in the morning.
Also, I have noticed that I am on LTE a lot more often on the Moto than I was with the N5.
I use the hand waving thing a lot more often than I thought I would as well.

Thedonk13 said:
Totally forgot to mention the loud speaker... It's amazing how loud it really is. I also owned an M8 (hated sense) and Moto isn't "better" but it is really really close. Actually wakes me up when I need it in the morning.
Also, I have noticed that I am on LTE a lot more often on the Moto than I was with the N5.
I use the hand waving thing a lot more often than I thought I would as well.
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Yeah, N5 would have such a hard time keeping up with LTE. I was mostly on HSPA+ because radio pretty much sucked.
I am coming from M8 as well and X may not have the same quality and deepness, but it's very very loud and surprises you at times for being just one speaker. Equalizer is pretty good by default on X as well.
I love the texting from Chrome browser and the X talking to me while driving. Oh and sleep mode saves your screen some energy by not turning it on at all if put screen down or in night mode. Software features are actually useful unlike gimmicks IMHO.

Thedonk13 said:
I currently own both, and now that I've gotten a Moto X 2014, i won't be going back.
The build quality alone makes it a better option. It FEELS so good in the hand, and that weight...UGH!! so nice.....
The Nexus 5 has only 1 leg up on the moto x, and thats qi charging. BUT, i'm thinking of getting a bluboon *spelling* receiver and trying that out...we will see.....
the moto takes better pics imho and has slomo recording!!
go with the X, you won't regret it....the battery life is the same and with 5.0 we will get project volt and won't need bigger batteries anyway....
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Click to collapse
You've sold me with that. I guess I will just have to deal with no tempered glass etc. I mean I keep good care of my phones but I don't want to run the risk of accidental dropping like my Nexus 5, guess I'm going to have to. I'll just buy a phone sock or something :laugh:
Only thing I'll miss from the Nexus 5 is the notification light (Moto Display is still cool but something about that LED gives it the edge) and Paranoid Android ROM but Android L seems perfect as it is right now. Also I have fairly small hands and the Nexus 5 was the PERFECT size. 2014 X isn't that much larger so it should be all fine! Many thanks!

I own both, and while they are both amazing phones, the Moto X is a pretty massive upgrade from the N5. Not necessarily in terms of speed (though the X is faster), just in terms of overall experience. I feel like the N5 is just a no-frills reference device (which technically it is, I guess) but the Moto X is the ultimate luxury smartphone. I have owned upwards of 20 different smartphones since 2009 including most of the major flagships, and never in my life have I held one this high quality before. The Moto X is the complete package, and I firmly believe it is the best smartphone ever made. The ONLY thing I wish it had was Qi charging but considering everything else the X has to offer, it's a minor compromise. You really can't go wrong with either phone, but my recommendation is the Moto X, without hesitation. Get the Pure edition if you can.

_MetalHead_ said:
I own both, and while they are both amazing phones, the Moto X is a pretty massive upgrade from the N5. Not necessarily in terms of speed (though the X is faster), just in terms of overall experience. I feel like the N5 is just a no-frills reference device (which technically it is, I guess) but the Moto X is the ultimate luxury smartphone. I have owned upwards of 20 different smartphones since 2009 including most of the major flagships, and never in my life have I held one this high quality before. The Moto X is the complete package, and I firmly believe it is the best smartphone ever made. The ONLY thing I wish it had was Qi charging but considering everything else the X has to offer, it's a minor compromise. You really can't go wrong with either phone, but my recommendation is the Moto X, without hesitation. Get the Pure edition if you can.
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Pure Edition? I'm assuming that's one directly from Motorola? (I'm the UK by the way! I know about American companies like Verizon taking ages to push updates and ugly branding etc)

RawrLikeADino said:
Pure Edition? I'm assuming that's one directly from Motorola? (I'm the UK by the way! I know about American companies like Verizon taking ages to push updates and ugly branding etc)
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Click to collapse
The Pure edition gives us an unlockable bootloader, because the AT&T and Verizon models are locked down. I'm not sure how it works across the pond though, as long as you can unlock your bootloader than you're golden.

Both are amazing, in my opinion the Moto X is the Nexus 5 2.0
Better specs all around (albeit nothing to write home about it), better battery life and touchless control its superb

RawrLikeADino said:
You've sold me with that. I guess I will just have to deal with no tempered glass etc. I mean I keep good care of my phones but I don't want to run the risk of accidental dropping like my Nexus 5, guess I'm going to have to. I'll just buy a phone sock or something :laugh:
Only thing I'll miss from the Nexus 5 is the notification light (Moto Display is still cool but something about that LED gives it the edge) and Paranoid Android ROM but Android L seems perfect as it is right now. Also I have fairly small hands and the Nexus 5 was the PERFECT size. 2014 X isn't that much larger so it should be all fine! Many thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't ONCE missed root or any ROM since i got the Moto X. i was always flashing on my N5 to get the features that come with this phone out of the box.
We mentioned build quality, i honestly believe my Moto X is of better feel than the M8. The M8 always felt slippery and cold, this phone just feels good.
I also splurged and got the moto care for 80 more bucks. 3 replacement phones over the next 2 years for anything i warrant. I will take full advantage of that service i promise you.

Exactly my debate a month ago. I've got a thread on here someplace about it. It came down to price vs quality and customization. I got the .edu discount (alumni account), so the difference was about $125 on a 32 GB. At that, the X with a wood back was worth it to me. If $ are tight, I think the Nexus 5 is the best option. If $ are tighter than that, then the Moto G (we have a couple of those in our household as well).

Thedonk13 said:
I haven't ONCE missed root or any ROM since i got the Moto X. i was always flashing on my N5 to get the features that come with this phone out of the box.
We mentioned build quality, i honestly believe my Moto X is of better feel than the M8. The M8 always felt slippery and cold, this phone just feels good.
I also splurged and got the moto care for 80 more bucks. 3 replacement phones over the next 2 years for anything i warrant. I will take full advantage of that service i promise you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally agree that the X feels nicer than the M8. I honestly wasn't all that impressed with the M8. It kinda gives off a "hey look at me, I'm metal" vibe without actually being all that nice. Like it's made out of aluminum just for the sake of being made out of aluminum, for bragging rights, if that makes sense. There just isn't anything special about it... and those godawful bezels, ugh. The Moto X on the other hand is just... elegant. It's very mature, and no part of its design is superfluous. I keep saying it and I'll keep on saying it- the Moto X is the nicest smartphone ever made.
On a side note, my friend just got the One E8 which is essentially just a polycarbonate version of the M8 and I like it a heckuva lot more than the M8. I think it looks nicer and feels nicer than its aluminum brother.

The Moto X is like a Nexus 5.5. Physically a big step up from the Nexus 5, feels premium. If the Nexus 6 size puts you off a great successor. Outside of a Nexus there is no other manufacturer that will truly give you a stock feeling. Is it worth the price to upgrade? Not for everyone, but I wouldn't have gone to any other handset.
The development on this phone may not kick off massively, which would be a shame, but I wouldn't force yourself to adapt to the Nexus 6 just because its a new Nexus device. I'd either stay on the Nexus 5 or choose a Moto X.
If big devices don't bother you though its Nexus 6 > everything else.

I moved from the even older nexus 4, huge jump for me but only in day two of using it and I'm really on the fence if this is right phone for me. But it is a nice stock feeling phone.

mario24601 said:
I moved from the even older nexus 4, huge jump for me but only in day two of using it and I'm really on the fence if this is right phone for me. But it is a nice stock feeling phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on Nexus 4 and debating Moto X vs Nexus 5 (N6 size doesn't work for me).
I was leaning towards Moto X until I read your comment.
Why are you on the fence? What's not right about Moto X?

RawrLikeADino said:
So I have the choice of either getting a Nexus 5 or a Moto X (2014) but on paper these two phones are pretty good, not much between them. I really don't know which to get. So for those of you who have used both or at least one of these devices, what are you opinions on them and which do you prefer? Hopefully this will help others too!
I'm mainly looking at these categories:
- General Usage
- Durability
- Accessories (I've noticed currently there's not that many screen protectors for the Moto X plus there being issues with tempered glass)
I original had the Nexus 5 but it broke. Really badly. The repearability of the Nexus 5 is not good and now my phone just no longer works. Should I stick to the same or try something new?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the nexus 5 and hated it. Had great specs but the cheapest design and actually stuttered a little bit with animations.. least favorite phone so far besides the s4. I'd go nexus 6 if the screen isn't to big for you[emoji12]

Moto x vs Galaxy S6

With all the hype I thought I would start a discussion comparing the two phones and discussing is it a worthy enough upgrade.
From what I've tag the camera is pretty amazing, battery life meh, and glad on both sides (don't know how it'll hold up)...
What do you guys think? Would you give up the Moto features, vanilla android and fast updates? (and a design that doesn't look like an iPhone - for the normal 6-)

The capacitive buttons and the home button are enough to turn me off. I've never liked them. It's almost bad enough in my mind that even if the thing could solve global warming I wouldn't buy it because of the buttons.

Assuming the longer term reviews come in supporting the initial impressions, I'm ditching for an S6 as soon as the "on contract" deals start showing up. I've got kids, I'm sick of the MX camera blowing 4 our of every 5 pictures I try to take.

chrisrozon said:
Assuming the longer term reviews come in supporting the initial impressions, I'm ditching for an S6 as soon as the "on contract" deals start showing up. I've got kids, I'm sick of the MX camera blowing 4 our of every 5 pictures I try to take.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm running the 5.1 soak test and the camera is leaps&bounds better than 5.0

It is a unfair comparison, different generations. Both phones look great, both are lightning fast as reports claim and each have their own advantage (hardware agaisn't user experience).

I absolutely hate Samsung phones! They don't even get considered when I'm in the market for a new phone as I prefer the clean vanilla look and feel so normally only look at Nexus type devices. Some of my reason are below:
-Horrible Touchwiz interface
-Poorly developed interface means lots of lag
-Crap build quality
-Very bad depreciation (I guarantee Samsung will release a new more powerful version of the S6 in 6 months after this becomes available)
-Copycats (the S6 looks almost the same as the iPhone 6 from the bottom!!!)
Not sure what people see in Samsung phones!

If I had the money I would switch. The Moto has horrible haptic feedback, and I have to reboot often. Hope the update makes it better.

who leaves haptic feedback on. really? lol.....

Wutang200 said:
I absolutely hate Samsung phones! They don't even get considered when I'm in the market for a new phone as I prefer the clean vanilla look and feel so normally only look at Nexus type devices. Some of my reason are below:
-Horrible Touchwiz interface
-Poorly developed interface means lots of lag
-Crap build quality
-Very bad depreciation (I guarantee Samsung will release a new more powerful version of the S6 in 6 months after this becomes available)
-Copycats (the S6 looks almost the same as the iPhone 6 from the bottom!!!)
Not sure what people see in Samsung phones!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't necessarily hate TouchWiz, but I prefer the Nexus/Moto X experience to it for sure. I run mostly Google apps, so I just feel the residual effects of TouchWiz (dialer, settings, etc.).
I do hate the lag. I also hate the 200 apps that Samsung and AT&T piled into my GS5. A Pure Edition Moto X has made me so much happier. I've been a Nexus guy in the past, but the Nexus 6 was just too big, plus I am starting to love the Moto X features, especially double twist for camera. I heavily disliked the Moto X 2013--the 2nd gen is a major improvement.
I disagree with the depreciation comment to an extent. Sure, if you buy it brand new, it may depreciate a tad, but I bought a GS5 for $250 with an Otterbox in November and sold it last week without the Otterbox for $275. I cleared about $12 after Swappa and PayPal fees (the guy picked it up, no shipping). So I actually made a few bucks to use the phone for a few months.
I completely disagree that the GS6 looks anything like the iPhone 6, especially the GS6 Edge.
The Samsung devices appeal to a lot of people. XDA users are by far the minority of Android users. My mother still loves her GS3 and is super excited about upgrading to a GS6 Edge. My sister loved her GS3 and loves her GS5. I actually bought my girlfriend a GS4 as a present on the day it came out because I thought that more appropriate for her than my Nexus devices I had at the time. We are currently discussing whether or not she would like to upgrade to the GS6 Edge in a couple of months.
rogeriorp said:
It is a unfair comparison, different generations. Both phones look great, both are lightning fast as reports claim and each have their own advantage (hardware agaisn't user experience).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with this. It is a little unfair to compare the GS6 with Moto X 2014. It is much more fair to compare the Moto X 2014 to the GS5, as that is considered the same generation. You also have to consider that Moto X 2014 intentionally sacrifices top of the line hardware for other gimmicks, such as Moto maker and lower prices.
RyanTX said:
The capacitive buttons and the home button are enough to turn me off. I've never liked them. It's almost bad enough in my mind that even if the thing could solve global warming I wouldn't buy it because of the buttons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hate the physical button with two capacitive buttons. I jumped to Galaxy Nexus years ago because I was so tired of capacitive buttons, and the physical button is significantly worse. I just came from a GS5, and it drove my crazy. I only had it because my firm made me. As soon as they gave me permission to choose my own phone, I went to Moto X.
gammite said:
who leaves haptic feedback on. really? lol.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No offense to Rogoshin, but I agree. Haptic feedback is terrible in itself. It isn't the Moto X, it is the haptic feedback in general. Just turn it off.

I had a chance to play with the GS6 at Best Buy the other day:
Pros:
-Improved construction. This doesn't mean much since Samsung was catching up to basically every one else. In-hand feel is not as good as the X. It's still a flat slab, it doesn't contour to your hand.
-Fast switching between apps. The NAND on this thing is insanely quick.
-Better camera (for some). If you look at most of the picture comparison tests done between multiple phones, you really have to scrutinize to see the majority of differences. If your camera phone pictures are crap, you mostly don't know what you're doing. That's not to say that there isn't a difference, but to the average consumer I'd argue they'd be hard pressed to find huge differences.
-Screen calibration is instantly noticeable, and it's BRIGHT for an AMOLED.
-Touch screen response time is fast. I forgot the name of the term.
Cons:
-It's long. Wasted space up top and down at the bottom.
-It still has touchwiz. Even if it's been simplified, the theme is still more or less teenage mutant ninja turtles once you pull down the quick tiles.
-Chrome is choppier/jankier on it than on our X. The Exynos XXXX that they're using still doesn't provide for a fast enough experience on chrome relative to our older SOC and lower 1080p resolution. Hopefully moto sticks with 1080p, the new SOCs aren't up to par yet.
-Speaker is meh. The front-facing one on the X is still better.
-You can't wave at it to wake it up. To me, any phone that you still have to pick up and press the power button to see what's going on feels so 2012.
-Come Android 5.2, everyone's going to ***** and moan about having to wait for it to be updated.
All in all, it's decent, but it's still just another phone. It doesn't add anything new to the experience.
To me it's X > S6 > M9

erikiksaz said:
I had a chance to play with the GS6 at Best Buy the other day:
Pros:
-Improved construction. This doesn't mean much since Samsung was catching up to basically every one else. In-hand feel is not as good as the X. It's still a flat slab, it doesn't contour to your hand.
-Fast switching between apps. The NAND on this thing is insanely quick.
-Better camera (for some). If you look at most of the picture comparison tests done between multiple phones, you really have to scrutinize to see the majority of differences. If your camera phone pictures are crap, you mostly don't know what you're doing. That's not to say that there isn't a difference, but to the average consumer I'd argue they'd be hard pressed to find huge differences.
-Screen calibration is instantly noticeable, and it's BRIGHT for an AMOLED.
-Touch screen response time is fast. I forgot the name of the term.
Cons:
-It's long. Wasted space up top and down at the bottom.
-It still has touchwiz. Even if it's been simplified, the theme is still more or less teenage mutant ninja turtles once you pull down the quick tiles.
-Chrome is choppier/jankier on it than on our X. The Exynos XXXX that they're using still doesn't provide for a fast enough experience on chrome relative to our older SOC and lower 1080p resolution. Hopefully moto sticks with 1080p, the new SOCs aren't up to par yet.
-Speaker is meh. The front-facing one on the X is still better.
-You can't wave at it to wake it up. To me, any phone that you still have to pick up and press the power button to see what's going on feels so 2012.
-Come Android 5.2, everyone's going to ***** and moan about having to wait for it to be updated.
All in all, it's decent, but it's still just another phone. It doesn't add anything new to the experience.
To me it's X > S6 > M9
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To address the bolded points, I could not take a picture for crap with the GS5. Everyone complains about the Moto X camera, but my pictures are much better. The pictures I took on the GS5 always looked skewed and weird. Depending on the angle I held the phone at, I could add or subtract 40 pounds to myself with the front-facing camera. My girlfriend loves the camera on her GS4, and the GS5 got good reviews on its camera, so I think I am just terrible at taking smartphone pictures. The Moto X's camera is so simple that my pictures end up coming out better on it despite it getting generally negative reviews when compared to other flagships.
As to the 5.2 comment, that is a major drawing point to these pure(r) Android devices for me. The AT&T GS5 has still not been upgraded to 5.0, despite the Nexus devices getting 5.1 and Moto X 2014 being right behind them. I know Verizon pushed the update out for their GS5 a month ago, but that's still way too late for someone used to the Nexus world.
I know I am discussing the GS5 here, not the GS6, but I think these comments are universally applicable.

I enjoy my Moto x a lot. Love the Moto actions, the feel in the hand and the Moto voice.
Today I started having problems with the X. It restarts randomly (maybe bc new update of greenify) and battery just took a dump after one said restart. (gonna check battery calibration)
The camera is another area of concern... I have problems taking macro photos...
But overall the x is a great phone... Don't know if it'll be justified to move to the s6.
It is a great phone though... Need to see it in person

The problem with the Moto X isnt taking normal pictures, its low light and fast moving subjects that completely screw it up. All the initial reports so far are that the gs 6 have solve those problems and offers an iPhone like quality camera

I don't know about your arguments, because I know alot of people that use haptic feedback. And only on one previous phone did I have to shut it off. I to like the the interface of the Moto x, but mine lacks, but not often. I also like the build quality. But if I had the money I would still switch. But it would probably be back to the xperia z3 compact.

I decided to swap my Moto X '14 for a S6. I haven't touched a galaxy phone since the S2 and I swore to never touch one again. But the S6 convinced me to try it one more time. I actually don't mind the new touchwiz (liking the material design look) and with root I'll just uninstall some of the pre-installed applications. The phone itself looks great and is better looking than the X, the hardware seems like a big improvement. It does have some nice features the X hasn't. I really dig the fingerprint sensor. The only thing that's bothering me is the software updates. It will probably take a lot more time than the Moto X. Although that's taking some time as well compared to the Nexus 5 that I had before. I just decided that I don't the mind waiting and having the Moto X a few months, it seems a bit boring or something like that.

Before the Moto X I had a Galaxy S3 and a S4. Even though they're pretty good phones, once I installed the Google Play Edition ROM on the S4 and got used to the vanilla Android feel, I realized how much I hated the crappy Touchwiz, the idea of going back to it sickens me, not to mention that their phones are usually very overpriced (at least here in Brazil). Samsung never again (well, never say never)!

FurryMurry said:
I decided to swap my Moto X '14 for a S6. I haven't touched a galaxy phone since the S2 and I swore to never touch one again. But the S6 convinced me to try it one more time. I actually don't mind the new touchwiz (liking the material design look) and with root I'll just uninstall some of the pre-installed applications. The phone itself looks great and is better looking than the X, the hardware seems like a big improvement. It does have some nice features the X hasn't. I really dig the fingerprint sensor. The only thing that's bothering me is the software updates. It will probably take a lot more time than the Moto X. Although that's taking some time as well compared to the Nexus 5 that I had before. I just decided that I don't the mind waiting and having the Moto X a few months, it seems a bit boring or something like that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. Its a very attractive phone. Gonna go to the verizon store to play with it tomorrow, I think they have it on display. We'll see

I love the Moto X 2014, but have the 'phone swapping technology disease...LOL' that mainly have on XDA.
However, one of the things keeping me on the Moto X is how stellar the reception is with the phone. It's a rock star pulling and holding a solid signal in my work place. Very few have come close to it.

seco2004 said:
Before the Moto X I had a Galaxy S3 and a S4. Even though they're pretty good phones, once I installed the Google Play Edition ROM on the S4 and got used to the vanilla Android feel, I realized how much I hated the crappy Touchwiz, the idea of going back to it sickens me, not to mention that their phones are usually very overpriced (at least here in Brazil). Samsung never again (well, never say never)!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First thing I did on the S2/3/4 was to install Nova Launcher. Makes the Galaxy's a tad easier to digest.

No way, it says samsung on it

Moto x pure or S6??

Hey all,
I have been a moto x user since it's inception. I have seriously loved the minimal bloat and the moto assist ks amazing.
My battery in my 2nd gen moto is shot and I need to upgrade. I have always purchased my phone through Verizon @ the $200 price tag. My question is: is the new moto x worth the $400 price tag? I have looked into the S6 as a plan B. However is the bloated software from Samsung going to drive me crazy since I am used to the mostly stock UI on the moto x?
Sent from my XT1096 using XDA Free mobile app

swegin said:
Hey all,
I have been a moto x user since it's inception. I have seriously loved the minimal bloat and the moto assist ks amazing.
My battery in my 2nd gen moto is shot and I need to upgrade. I have always purchased my phone through Verizon @ the $200 price tag. My question is: is the new moto x worth the $400 price tag? I have looked into the S6 as a plan B. However is the bloated software from Samsung going to drive me crazy since I am used to the mostly stock UI on the moto x?
Sent from my XT1096 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This should be in Q&A or not posted at all. Both are fine phones. TouchWiz and carrier boat are annoying but I'm sure there is or will be development for that device.

MXPE is waaay ahead thab S6. I used to have it but sold it because of the following:
- verry agressive RAM management. All apps are reloading when put on the background
- heavy customisation. Though looks cool but its not necessary, S6 tends to be laggy esp on the themes
- camera is great but MXPE camera is awesome
- Super AMOLED is yay but the LCD TFT display of MXPE has great accurate color. Not washed out.
Sent from my Moto X Pure (2015) via Tapatalk

I always find it amusing when people come to a forum about a specific phone asking between two phones. A little hint, if you post the thread here debating one phone with the phone we have we will tell you to get the phone that is in the thread title. I bet if you posted this on the S6 section you would get all sorts of people saying to with the S6.
With that said let me break it down. These are two VERY different phones.
S6 is a little guy with heavily customized android. This leads to bugs, slow updates and laggy performance. If you get the AT&T or Verizon version it will be locked down tight with little to no development.... ever. It has a lot of bells and whistles that are great, for example, finger print sensor, best rated camera, wireless charging, IR blaster and so on. It does have a baby battery though. AMOLED screen is very pretty but is prone to burn ins (most of the display units at my local store all have burn in already) but you can't beat the vividness and dark blacks.
Moto x is a completely different beast. Not only is it a lot cheaper (brand new of course) but it has a much larger screen, front facing speakers, near stock experiences with moto add ons, beautiful LCD IPS TFT display, customization, no finger print sensor, a bigger battery, microsd card slot and a decent camera.
I would go for the moto x any day of the week. I'm so sick of skinned android and have been disappointed. I guess a more close comparison would be the note 5 or S6 edge + since you are dealing with the same size device. But remember they will be almost double in price.
But just like any phone better than phone debate... it comes down to personal preference. What is "better" for me may not be better for you. You may want to give these phones a test drive. You have 14 days and you will see which shoe fits better.

joshuadjohnson22 said:
I always find it amusing when people come to a forum about a specific phone asking between two phones. A little hint, if you post the thread here debating one phone with the phone we have we will tell you to get the phone that is in the thread title. I bet if you posted this on the S6 section you would get all sorts of people saying to with the S6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was going to say the same thing, and just want to add the following to the discussion.... see my signature
MXPE > S6

KryptosXLayer2 said:
I was going to say the same thing, and just want to add the following to the discussion.... see my signature
MXPE > S6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah for sure, If we didn't think the MXPE was better we'd be over at the S6 forums right now.

Have most "fun" devices out there, but for me Nexus and Moto with the "clean" android 99% win.
Have both s6 and s6 edge/edge+, but the battery and signal is the problem on them. S6 edge+ is better on battery tho, but weak signal and tw..
Camera on Samsung is nice but does not win over the pure android for me as the last Moto have a decent camera.
Skickat från min XT1572 via Tapatalk

I would go with MXPE. I own an S6 and MX2014...the reason I haven't bought the MXPE is because I felt its a minor upgrade to the 2nd Gen and the S6 camera is superior. I do miss near stock Android....and especially miss not having carrier bloat in which I'll go use my 2014 for several weeks
Sent from my XT1095 using XDA Free mobile app

joshuadjohnson22 said:
I always find it amusing when people come to a forum about a specific phone asking between two phones. A little hint, if you post the thread here debating one phone with the phone we have we will tell you to get the phone that is in the thread title. I bet if you posted this on the S6 section you would get all sorts of people saying to with the S6.
With that said let me break it down. These are two VERY different phones.
S6 is a little guy with heavily customized android. This leads to bugs, slow updates and laggy performance. If you get the AT&T or Verizon version it will be locked down tight with little to no development.... ever. It has a lot of bells and whistles that are great, for example, finger print sensor, best rated camera, wireless charging, IR blaster and so on. It does have a baby battery though. AMOLED screen is very pretty but is prone to burn ins (most of the display units at my local store all have burn in already) but you can't beat the vividness and dark blacks.
Moto x is a completely different beast. Not only is it a lot cheaper (brand new of course) but it has a much larger screen, front facing speakers, near stock experiences with moto add ons, beautiful LCD IPS TFT display, customization, no finger print sensor, a bigger battery, microsd card slot and a decent camera.
I would go for the moto x any day of the week. I'm so sick of skinned android and have been disappointed. I guess a more close comparison would be the note 5 or S6 edge + since you are dealing with the same size device. But remember they will be almost double in price.
But just like any phone better than phone debate... it comes down to personal preference. What is "better" for me may not be better for you. You may want to give these phones a test drive. You have 14 days and you will see which shoe fits better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your insight! I kind of knew that I was going to get biased opinions posting this in the moto x forum, but I like what I hear. I am going to keep my moto x 2nd gen going until the battery dies and then go for the new moto x!
Sent from my XT1096 using XDA Free mobile app