Galaxy S 5 or Galaxy Note 3? - Galaxy S 5 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi guys,
This is my first experience with Samsung and I really need to get some help from you guys as I have an opportunity to choose one or the other. I have no experience in Samsung products and have to make a decision as to "Galaxy S 5 sm-g900w8 or Galaxy Note 3 sm-n900w8?
I'd appreciate any input.

Will you being buying it off contract. Or on contract. And if so what carrier. I have the note 3. And it's a great phone. Expect it's att so we have a mocked bootloader. And little development
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Free mobile app

ryant100 said:
Will you being buying it off contract. Or on contract. And if so what carrier. I have the note 3. And it's a great phone. Expect it's att so we have a mocked bootloader. And little development
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm buying outright(no contract). They both are factory unlocked and I live in Canada so I'm with Rogers, hence the Canadian Model I have mentioned in my post.

http://www.phonearena.com/phones/compare/Samsung-Galaxy-S5,Samsung-Galaxy-Note-3/phones/8202,7984
The S5 (on paper at least) has a small edge in performance......though in real life, I doubt the difference would be noticeable. The note has a higher capacity battery which will obviously lengthen the uptime between charges.
The S5 will accept a higher capacity external memory card.....which would only be an issue if you used your phone as a movie player and wanted to store A LOT of movies (to put this into perspective, I have 20 full length movies, 200+ mp3s, 150+ ebooks and more pictures than I care to count stored on my card and it's only 32Mb)........
So what it comes down to is, device cost and screen size.......
Would YOU personally find a bigger screen size useful? (Bear in mind the overall size of the devices and how well they'll fit in your pocket)
Also, I expect that there will be a price difference......is that a factor?
For me personally, the S5 ticks all the 'physical' boxes.....and in terms of performance, it's like greased lightening compared to my previous device (S2).....
But that's me......what I want from my device will probably be different to what you want.......
But at least now, you have a little more info......
Sent from my rooted, debloated stocKK kn0x0 SM-G900F

keithross39 said:
http://www.phonearena.com/phones/compare/Samsung-Galaxy-S5,Samsung-Galaxy-Note-3/phones/8202,7984
The S5 (on paper at least) has a small edge in performance......though in real life, I doubt the difference would be noticeable. The note has a higher capacity battery which will obviously lengthen the uptime between charges.
The S5 will accept a higher capacity external memory card.....which would only be an issue if you used your phone as a movie player and wanted to store A LOT of movies (to put this into perspective, I have 20 full length movies, 200+ mp3s, 150+ ebooks and more pictures than I care to count stored on my card and it's only 32Mb)........
So what it comes down to is, device cost and screen size.......
Would YOU personally find a bigger screen size useful? (Bear in mind the overall size of the devices and how well they'll fit in your pocket)
Also, I expect that there will be a price difference......is that a factor?
For me personally, the S5 ticks all the 'physical' boxes.....and in terms of performance, it's like greased lightening compared to my previous device (S2).....
But that's me......what I want from my device will probably be different to what you want.......
But at least now, you have a little more info......
Thank you for your reply, big help.
One question though, as far as development, which is more foregoing and is there a difference as to tougher security measures on each device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

With higher device versions comes a more tighter security. As far as development goes that I cannot answer as I don't have a note 3 and am also a newbie to samsung myself(first samsung device is s5)
But as far as specs go the note range has higher specs compared to it's galaxy counterpart and the note is always the best choice unless you really want a phone rather than a phablet. But note 3 is s4's counterpart so it should be within the "same level" on s5.
When I say the same level though that doesn't mean they have the same features and specs but instead the note has specs & features that exceeds the s5 while the s5 does have some of its own that exceeds the note.
Take for example...
S-Pen vs Fingerprint scanner
More Battery vs Efficient Snapdragon801
etc.
And lastly if you'd like to ask why I opted the s5... It's a personal thing... I came from a Sony device namely the Xperia Z1 Compact due to its size. So obviously I would pick the s5 over note 3 for obvious reasons that I prefer my phones on the small side but have bigger specs.

samteeee said:
Hi guys,
This is my first experience with Samsung and I really need to get some help from you guys as I have an opportunity to choose one or the other. I have no experience in Samsung products and have to make a decision as to "Galaxy S 5 sm-g900w8 or Galaxy Note 3 sm-n900w8?
I'd appreciate any input.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
go with note 3 bro it has 3 gigs of ram which will help u in future.. S5 has a weak point of high ram usage. camera is almost same in both devices.... looks wise note 3 is sexy... performance is same... S pen rocks.. etc

Thanks a lot guys.
Would any of you guys know that S5 "Canadian Variant" has a more user friendly Security Measures? As Note 3 does.
They both carry 900W8 Series.
Thank you.

Related

note3 vs s4, worth the upgrade?

so i know a lot of people are debating getting the note 3, coming from their note 2s, but is anyone else out there considering doing it from their s4?
i like my s4, out of the box theres very little needing to be done. it was the first phone ive owned where custom roms would only mess things up. battery life for days, camera didnt need any hacking, everything ran fast, and looked good. there was an annoying popup turning up volume with headphones, and that was pretty much it. oh yeah and it didnt have a good sound chip like the s3, but the note3 wont either so thats not in the running.
despite being a solid phone, my reason for considering an upgrade is really just to change things up. is anyone thinking of moving to the note3 from the s4?
ill add "Thanks" to anyone giving feedback/input/2¢
note3
better gpu/cpu
more ram
internal memory
possibly s pen features?
s4
screen has better density,, otherwise no other differences?
up in the air
glass type?
probably same LED?
gps?
still pictures?
4k is alright, but what looks better in 1080p? (only thing that matters in 2013)
battery life?
radio?
air gesture? (really ONLY useful for gloves)
I have considered it and for me it's simply a matter of do I need...
1) a bigger screen again and
2) the spen features.
Although tempted by the Note 3 (after a year of the Note and Note 2) I went to the S4 in May. I really miss the spen and larger screen but found the size of the Note devices to be too much of a hassle in/out pocket, etc. But that's just me....I use my S4 (gps) for a lot of outdoor activity (backpacking, running, biking, note taking..ideas, etc.), and the Note 3 size would just make it more difficult to lug around.
My experience w/S4* has been nothing but excellent and it really fits all my needs for a smartphone...although I wish it had an onboard stylus.
So I basically think it's a matter of how you use your smartphones. Currently I'm sporting a S4 combined with Nexus 7. If I did get the N3 I'd get rid of the N7.
No doubt however, when it arrives in the stores i will definitely compare my S4 to the N3 and ponder...can I make it work for me? But the 5", physical size, sensors, etc. of the S4 work great.
*S4: stock, nova. Other than the original Palm pilot, it's the first smartphone I've owned that I haven't jailbreak, rooted, romed, etc. I enjoy the fact that everything works.
I actually will be going from the S4 to the Note 3.
The larger screen size will be nice for the real estate, but it's a slight trade off as I will lose the 1 handed operation I'm used to, and it's the same screen and resolution (diamond Pentile 1080p) as the S4 so you will technically lose some PPI, relevant or not.
For me getting the N3 is largely about the SPen features I'm looking forward to, especially with what I'm working on these days. The bump from 16 to 32GB storage is also welcomed. Also the new radio power management should provide a nice boost and I have little doubt the N3 will last a bunch longer on battery than the S4. USB3 is also a nice plus.
Everything else for me is a wash, Sammy's TW 4.3 will feel the same I'm sure. Yea the 800 will be faster than the 600 but will you see all that in day to day? probably not, but it's more future proof I suppose. Don't care about 4K video, and the camera stills will likely be the same between the two.
soraxd said:
up in the air
glass type?
probably same LED?
gps?
still pictures?
4k is alright, but what looks better in 1080p? (only thing that matters in 2013)
battery life?
radio?
air gesture? (really ONLY useful for gloves)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not the same LED. The N3 has more pwoerful LED than the S4.
Both the two variants wont have FM Radio on board.
S4 vs Note3 are pretty much the same device, only in a larger screen.
If I had the S4 I'll probably not get the Note3 unless i wanted a larger screen plus the S-pen
Originally i was going to get the S4 when it was released earlier this year, then i got winds about the Notes3 coming out so I held back, as I wanted all the features from the S4 plus all the feature that the Note3 offers
I'm very glad I waited.
I had this question in mind when I was on s3. I moved to note 2 as it had all features from s3, bigger screen and most of all bigger battery. I am very proud I made that decision so I guess it will be worth to upgrade to note 3 considering the overheating, smearing and poor battery issues of s4.
Sent from the New S Pen
I personally think people buy the Note-series for the wrong reasons. The only reason I owned a N2 (and soon an N3) is because I use S Pen/S Note, inking,, and multiview heavily. Those things require a screen at least as large as the Note's. If I didn't use those things I'd have a SGS4 or one of its competitors because lugging around a phablet isn't always fun. If you have decent size hands one-handed operation is workable but still not ideal.
Ask yourself these questions...
Do I want a larger display? - If yes, from a feature/performance/size perspective the N3's a great choice. If you're not in to S Pen/S Note or inking there are other large screen devices, both available and rumored, to consider that may have larger displays than the N3 or lower prices.
Am I moving to the N3 strictly for performance gains? - The Note-series phones have a lot going on under the hood. 3GB of RAM sounds fantastic but multiview and some of the other S Stuff are going to use a chunk of it. S-800's impressive but other smaller devices including the Nexus 5 and a possible LTE-A S-800 version of the SGS4 will be released with it too. So if you're hunting for performance the N3's a great choice but you may have other smaller-sized choices available soon. If you're going to root and run a non-TW ROM the performance of the N3 without Samsung's "features" should be impressive.
Am I creation/productivity user? - Used for what it's intended, there's nothing that competes with the Note-series. If you aren't currently using a device for creation/productivity but are in a creative line-of-work or do a lot of business communication and time management on your phone it might be worth exploring what the Note's features can provide. I have a Note 10.1 and N2 and would never own a non-Note device again. One man's opinion of course.
BarryH_GEG said:
Do I want a larger display? - If yes, from a feature/performance/size perspective the N3's a great choice. If you're not in to S Pen/S Note or inking there are other large screen devices, both available and rumored, to consider that may have larger displays than the N3 or lower prices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Another thing to consider when answering this question is the downside of having a Larger Display, is the size form factor of the phone itself.
Ask you self these questions:
4. How I'm going to carry this phone on a daily basis?
5. How easy/hard would it be for me to access the phone when I need to answer/make a call?
for me I'm still trying to answer #4, I have Notes 1 and it hasn't been easy, I still use my Galaxy S2 more than my Notes 1 because of this reason.
for answer #5 the Samsung Gear, that watch will finally solve my problem I've been having with the Notes 1, yes, i used Bluetooth before, but it wasn't the same, it was really hard to access the phone to look up things as it didn't quite fit in the usual pockets, specially if you are out in Shorts and T-shirts
at least with the Samsung Gear, no I can keep the Note 3 in arm pocket or something, and then use the Gear to do the basic stuff when i'm out biking on Shorts & Tshirt
which in a way solves the conodrum i was having with quesiton #4
AllGamer said:
How I'm going to carry this phone on a daily basis?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's funny you'd say that. A ton of people were pissed when it was confirmed the N3 was "only" going to have a 5.7" display. I was thrilled because the N2's size is the max I'd go for something whose primary purpose is a phone and the N3's actually smaller.
I think people play with a phablet in a store and think "it'll be fine." In addition to things you mentioned try to use one running through an airport trying to find a connecting gate. Or with only one hand free walking down the street. What seems "fine" in a store or speculatively changes real fast depending on your lifestyle.
I'm going to upgrade from the S4. I actually don't mind the touch wiz that much I just don't think the S4 has enough juice to run it. I love the phone it just gets really hot when I'm playing games and the battery doesn't last me half a day.
Here is my thought process:
Size - S4 is already large so I already had to get used to changing the way I carry my phone
Battery - I can't get half a day out of my S4 in power save mode with features I would use turned off
Screen - I like as much screen size as I can get and I have trouble typing stuff out on smaller phones. I spend a lot of time correcting.
S Pen - This is something I actually really like, some might not care at all about it
RAM - More = better!
Storage - I got the 16GB S4 and didn't realize how little of it would be left. Without installing anything on my phone I'm at 9 GB with some games at 1-2 GB that is not enough space
I'm jumping from the S4 to Note 3. Can't wait!
I'm also ditching the s4 and getting a note 3.
Being a note 2 owner before the s4 I really regret selling my note 2!
I miss the big screen and tons of battery Life.
Also the s-pen makes it worth while for me.
The s4 is a good device but it doesn't fit my needs.
Can't wait till I get my note 3!
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I too will be making the change from a S4 to a Note 3. Main reason being the bigger screen and the ability to use the S-Pen. I had a Note 2 and sold that to get the S4. After a while, I just really started missing the bigger screen. Even with the smaller S4, I still found myself using two hands anyways. So for me it's really a "once you go big, you don't go back." Also I was able to sell my S4 for $500. Purchasing the Note 3 off-contract which is really the same as purchasing the phone on contract since it's a $225 difference or so between what I sold my S4 for and what I'm paying for the Note 3.
wow what awesome feedback!
so everyone seems to agree the biggest selling point is the S-Pen! what exactly does the S-Pen do? i thought the airview/air hover was supposed to the s4's version of the S-Pen, but airview and air hover are absolutely 100% useless in every possible way imaginable. all these features do are get in the way if youre trying to actually do something.. im positive everyone turned them off after the first few days.
so what does the S-Pen contribute?
i was hoping being able to hover over an area of a webpage would act the same way hovering a mouse does, where it brings dropdown menus, mouse hover features, toast popups, any java/flash/html5 features, and every other thing an on-screen mouse is used for. however samsung implemented none of this, and closesourced its hover features. theyre only used for gimmicky things like turning pages on the touchwiz launcher if you hold it a certain way.. -___________-"...
soo, S-Pen?? wutitdo?
I'll keep my S4. Having a larger phone would only be a hassle for my pockets. Plus I have small hands. My S4 will be my pick. I don't need a bigger phone...
Sent from my GT-I9505 using Tapatalk 2
I missed the screen real estate going from the Note 2 to my S4. I have been anxiously awaiting the Note 3 to step back up to a good size screen. I don't agree that the S4 didn't need anything done to it, but I'm not a fan of all the bloat Samsung and the carriers include on these great pieces of hardware.
edit - For me the S-Pen is secondary. It just happens to be included in a great specced phone with a large screen. I'd gladly buy an identical model without the Pen.
The s-pen isn't the deciding factor for me, though I don't want to give it up either! (I have the Note 2). I use it every once in a while but not often. For me it's all about the screen size. I am one of those who wanted the N3 to be 6" or perhaps even bigger.
However there have been times when it was a bit larger than comfortable in the pocket - ie especially during sports. This was partly the weight, not the size - with loose trousers and big pockets it's worse. Still doable but not ideal; it's a trade off I am happy to make though. Hopefully the lesser weight of the N3 will mitigate that problem somewhat.
On the other hand I'm not considering other brands with larger phones because I think Samsung brings way more software-wise to the table - lots of new features each model, and the s-pen is perhaps the best example. For me the S4 would be too small after the Note 2.
I'm really looking forward to the upgrade as it appears that almost everything on the phone will be improved. Since I have an extra Att upgrade to use and it will cost effectively nothing, upgrading is a no-brainer. If I had to pay full price though I'd wait.
I think if I were you, I'd figure out which phone was the right size; the one I'd be most comfortable with most of the time. After all, feature wise they're pretty close. Both are great devices. (Sorry for long response...)
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app
One thing I haven't seen people taking about is signal strength.
Maybe it's just me but when I went from the Note to the SGS 3 I noticed a big drop in signal.
soraxd said:
soo, S-Pen?? wutitdo?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are already two detailed (p)reviews from phonearena and gsmarena. The former stated the new s-pen features and the latter described them comparatively more in-depth.
Links:
http://www.phonearena.com/reviews/Samsung-Galaxy-Note-3-Preview_id3423/page/2
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_note_3_preview-review-986p4.php
So, we got a new pen window to start these fresh new things to enhance the multitasking:
Action Memo
Srapbooker
Screen write
S Finder
These are already been mentioned by knowledgeable and assumption-expert member(s) like @BarryH_GEG earlier in the general threads. Demo'ed in those vids too.
I am using s3 for a li'l over a year and I find s-pen along with these new features (with varying degrees) interesting.
For an S4 (i9500) user it should be exciting to have the exynos variant. Because now the exynos 5420 has HMP support which will never be possible for i9500 s4.
I really don't understand the OP's question
GNote2 owners doubting to upgrade to the Note3 is understandable, however ..
The S4 is a PHONE while the Note3 is a PHABLET, with S-pen capabilities ...the choice is totally personal
Correct me if I'm wrong .....
Edit: Not to mention the fact that somebody already started a thread just like this one a couple of days ago ....what a mess ....
.

Decision: Note 3 v. Galaxy S V

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

[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

[Q] Need Help: Galaxy Note 3 better?

I am trying to decide which phone to buy, the Galaxy S5, or the Galaxy Note 3. So if you kindly give me some advice based on my argument I will much appreciate it.
Why I don't want to buy the S5 although it has:
1. Superior camera auto-focus and clearer images (as far as online reviews go)
2. Superior battery life by about 1 and a half hours phonearena.com (http://www.phonearena.com/phones/benchmarks)
3. Better portability, dust proof, and water proof (but I wouldn't take shower with it personally).
4. Superior processing power.
The reason is this:
1. Galaxy Note 3 has 32GB internal storage. How does this translateto me? Longer 4K video recording capability. And it also translates to better compatibility with KitKat as a I heard that there will be restrictions for Google Apps to store on SD card. So the external SD card is going to be useful to store movies and music, and that's all.
2. Larger screen & pen may mean that the internet browsing experience is going to be more enjoyable as the pen can act like a mouse when it hovers over non-mobile friendly websites.
3. The pixel density (resolution vs. screen size) is not much higher from the S5 but strangely the Note 3 screen seems to have a warmer display in comparison to S5 which is slightly more bluish. As I intend to buy the Note 3 to read books and web surfing it seems to be a better choice for that.
4. The galaxy Note 3 is around 70USD cheaper from where I buy it, so why do I need to pay money for less RAM and a heart sensor? The processor clock rate difference is it that worthy?
At the same time, why I am afraid to buy the Galaxy Note 3?
1. A friend of mine told me that the device freezes from time to time and he has to restart, this has happened after the KitKat update.
2. A user review was complaining that the battery drained faster after the latest update to KitKat on his Note 3.
Consider the huge delays of Samsung to fix updates on their devices, it is a concern to me whether I should get the Note 3 and wait for updates from Samsung, or buy the latest S5 which will probably receive faster updates (if indeed it's needed since it's already 4.4 KitKat).
I am usually not with the philosophy to buy old phones, but in this case, Samsung is trying to sell me a slightly superior device with less functionality, and the price vs value ratio is clearly going to the Note 3.
At the end of the day I am so confused, and I need your input!
Note 4 should be announced in September, I'd wait until then to decide.
If you can't wait, others can provide better insight.
please questions goes to Q&A forum , avoid asking questions at the general forum and read the xda rules
Sent from my SM-G900F using Tapatalk
If you really want to put price to performance ratio just get the Note 3. They are basically the same device but the Note 3 has some cool S Pen features and minus a few newer features the S5 has like the ones you stated.
The Note devices are without a doubt the true Samsung flagships if you appreciate its size off course.
After selling my note 3 and getting this I can honestly say that if someone was to offer one to me today I would trade back in an instant
The camera on the S5 is better sure but the one in the Note 3 is probably only 2nd to the S5 and not by much
I had far better battery life then I do on this S5 (both SD models, stock rom)
Yeah but S5 still isn't a small phone either and .... meh
By 200mhz on cpu, only a benchmark will see that difference (SD models)
I wish they'd stop with 16GB models epecially when half is taken by os, skin and bloatware. yep that is an issue
Oh yes far better for viewing web content ... I never used pen but its there
Pixel density of over 350 and you're golden IMO anything else is kind of going overkill unless you want to zoom for closer detail
Good question. why pay for less screen and ram and get features you don't need like the sensor and ip57 ... if you can get N3 cheaper then I say take it
The S5 isn't perfect either I have had to take my battery out or restart it on occasions aswell
I would agree that you are getting far better value if you buy a note 3 over a S5. fact is the note has a bigger screen, more ram, more onboard storage and is only 200Mhz slower on the cpu
Go with the Note. I've had mine since it came out and I've never had a freezing issue. It sounds like you would like to have the Note 3 as well, so why not get one? It's a fine piece of hardware.

Galaxy S6 Edge+ or Note 5 - Which one did you buy ?

After the Samsung event today, when the pre-order went live, I got crazy over which one to buy. Even on samsung website, they have put a teaser to select the one I like. For being a note fan, I was inclined towards Note although I loved the edge display of S6 (never liked the 'S' series though). But finally, I took the big step. Ordered one S6 Edge+. Thought why not give a try, I can always change it after a year or two if its not that good, but I gotta try the edge for once.
So, which one did you buy ? (if you thought its worth the upgrade ofcourse). Or do you think I made a mistake ?
Yeah who know's if it's a good choice or not - tell us what it's like when you get it
Note 5 pretty much killed the Note series
I'll get it on 28th. I expected a delivery with the release date, however, I booked mine from BestBuy since they were giving away a free wireless charger (please note that this is not the fast wireless charging pad). I'll post some reviews once I use it for considerable time.:cyclops:
If you're one of 750 million people in Europe Samsung made the decision for you ...
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I'm still on my note 2 here. I was waiting for the announcement to decide if I wanted to go to note 4 or note 5.
The lack of SD card and no removable battery killed it for me.
Then I saw the new keyboard case!!
Omg be still my heart! It's been 4 years since my beloved HTC G2 and it's physical keyboard.
I might jump ship from the note and go for the s6 edge +!
I don't use my spen very often...
I like the Samsung Galaxy S6 edge plus, but the battery maybe the big problem which is bother me. Do I need to carry a power bank with it all day lone?
I wonder if existing S6 Edge owners will be pissed since they just bought a spanking new phone only a few months back, and now so soon an upgrade has been released.
Edge+ for me. I rarely used the S-Pen and just bought the Note line due to the large screen. Battery is a concern, but we will see.
Note 4. Samsung makes decision easy.
Being in the UK it would have to be the S6 Edge+. The only issue is that currently my provider (O2) has announced There will be 1 capacity available - 32GB but it hasn't even been 24 hours so I'm hoping it's incorrect.
Currently running 96GB on my Note
Motorpsycho said:
Note 4. Samsung makes decision easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly. The only thing good about the Note 5 or S6 Edge+ is the looks, mostly everything else is a downgrade over the Note 4.
Lembo said:
Being in the UK it would have to be the S6 Edge+. The only issue is that currently my provider (O2) has announced There will be 1 capacity available - 32GB but it hasn't even been 24 hours so I'm hoping it's incorrect.
Currently running 96GB on my Note
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey fellow loyal Samsung user who don't exist according to Samsung!
Even though I would have managed to get over the fact that for what ever reason the Samsung god decided we are not worthy of Note 5, when I went to O2 website and saw the only option of 32 GB.... I simply just close the tab and went to look at XiaoMi Redmi Note 2!
nookcoloruser said:
If you're one of 750 million people in Europe Samsung made the decision for you ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, Note 5 would have been my best choice for an high-end device to buy.
So... I'll buy a Nexus 5 2015.
I got a ship notification for the GS6E+ for a Monday delivery. I guess AT&T had them ready. I just ordered a few hours ago.
Im soo hyped i just got both the S6 Edge+ and the Note 5 pre ordered and im going forum post trigger happy lol I hope they mod, custom rom etc the works on these devices cuz i cant wait to see what these magicians can do with these devices!
which color are u getting, looks like US is getting only the black and the gold version, i was keen on the silver titanium version.
The verizon store owner who is also a friend told me that the gold version looks very classy, as a samsung rep brought it over to the store to show it to him.
I am kinda finding it hard figure out, if i should get the gold or the black
Decided on the edge+ cause i never use the s-pen
Sent from my SM-G925P using Tapatalk
first guy in UK to get one ! maybe in the world
Motorpsycho said:
Note 4. Samsung makes decision easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
geoff5093 said:
Exactly. The only thing good about the Note 5 or S6 Edge+ is the looks, mostly everything else is a downgrade over the Note 4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I'm not the one to judge what you should or shouldn't buy, however, I wouldn't say its a downgrade in anyway. For further clarification, let me take a few examples of the things people have been complaining about:-
Lower Battery Life
-You might say it has a 200-300 mAh lesser than any competitive device or even older Note devices. However, there is a good reason for that too. The new AMOLED is highly optimized for less power consumption compared to older Note devices. GS6 Edge and Edge+/N5 packs the same Quad HD resolution, hence the screen consumption will be same even though the screen size is bigger since the PPI is reduced in Edge+/N5 (which is again irrelevant to naked eye).
-The 14nm processor is way more power efficient than the older processors used in Note series.
- The non inclusion of SD Card also positively affects the battery life, check google for more info (we will come to the negative side later)
- The LPDDR4 RAM in newer smartphones have double the efficiency (data rate) with considerably less power consumption.
Even though I do not disagree that inclusion of bigger battery with some compromise over thickness would have been better, however, the battery (even though sounds less on paper) is equivalent (if not more) to what we used to get in old note series.
Missing SD Card
This seems to be one of the biggest worries for most of the folks, and they do have a valid reason for that. However, if we talk about why the SD Card hasn't been included, I can tell you its definitely not because SD Card is not supported with UFS2.0. The real reason is due to UFS2.0 being too fast (atleast 3 times of eMMC 5.1 ). When coupled with an SD Card, just imagine the user experience when half the app is running from UFS2.0 while its cache/data is stored in SD Card, that might actually lead to lags. This is the same reason for Apple not supporting SD Cards too (they don't use UFS2.0 though). Although its not the perfect replacement, however, you can pick some cheap sandisk otg flash drives for like 10-15 bux or may be wifi flash drives for like 30-40 bux. At least that's what I use.
Removable Battery
I think they did it to make create that unibody design and give it the premium look. I know it might not be what we were looking for in Note series, however, I do remember the days of the past (like 2 years back) when Samsung was criticized for their cheap plastic models compared to metallic HTCs. Well, guess what, they heard us. Even I miss this one. I'm looking forward to pick one MobilePal QI enabled power bank which retails at around 38 bux. I know we can't carry another bulky device with us all the time, but samsung didn't leave us with much choice in this area.
Missing IR Blaster
I still couldn't figure out what made them get rid of this. I was so much looking forward to this one and this is probably the only thing I would miss on my upcoming flagship. Can't do much here either...
Overall, I do not think Samsung has released a downgrade to its predecessors. The inclusion of amazing hardware [14nm fastest processor, UFS2.0, DDR4 RAM, Fast Wireless Charging, LTE Cat9, Optimized S-PEN, etc] bundled with its fair and unique software does put it above any other flagships in the market ( if we do not consider the price range ). Again, this is not for the sake of any argument, its just as per my analysis. Please feel free to correct me if I've mentioned anything wrong.
If you don't like to call it a downgrade then call it a sidegrade if you like and of cause the SOC, Fast RAM, Software improvements for the SPEN and so on are on the plus side. The problems you name for a SD card would apply to OTG storage just the same, besides you have to have this externally plugged in tearing at the usb port. For now the majority of S6 users seem not to be very impressed by battery time. Maybe software improvements can make that better and the hardware has the potential to deliver equal running times, but for S6 users this promise is not yet fullfilled.
The plastic back of Samsung phone always were a pro argument for me and i did never understand why people cried for metal or glass bodies. A plastic back is light weight, very cheap replaceable. Never had a problem with that while other phones with metal bodies had poor connection strength.
Actually i bought the Note 4 yesterday from my carrier for 19,95€ with contract prolongation while a S6 (without edge) with 128GB would have cost me more than 340€ and S6edge+ will probably be even more expensive while having only 64GB and the Note not be available for Europa at all (at least for now). Paying 300-400€ more for a phone that has some technical advantages and a lot of disadvantages in usability and the promise that regarding battery time it might come close to the note 4 and some of the insufficiencies can be compensated, somehow. Sorry, I don't see this for me.
I think their new commercial slogan will be "Samsung, making decisions easy!".

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