those who have the phone - Essential Phone Questions & Answers

So you will have all had the phone for a month or so now .
Still waiting here for the UK release ,but is it worth waiting for ,love the design of it
What's all your views on it .
my choices are
Wait for essential in the UK
Pixel 2 XL
HTC U11 + if it comes es to the UK
LG V30

I've grown to love this phone. Out of the phones you mention, the only one I would consider would be the P2XL. However, since Essential is starting to release source files, I'll be perfectly happy to stick with the PH-1 if we start seeing some development.

If I had the choice now, I'd probably go for the Pixel 2 XL. Having owned the PH-1 for a month now, I realize that it is still pretty much unfinished product. The hardware is no doubt, beautiful but the software still feels incomplete. Although Essential has sent out a few updates and the software had improved markedly, it is still not up to par with other phones in the market (e.g. phone lags when scrolling, it freezes every now and then and the camera software is still not that great).
Although we haven't seen how the Pixel 2 XL really works, I'd assume it's in better shape than the Essential software. In short, I'd ask whether you'd want to be a beta tester for Essential or go with a more established player like Google. In my case, I am getting the Pixel 2 XL and will sell the PH-1 (or may keep it as a backup) when it arrives.

I was waiting for the Pixel 2, not XL (850+ dlls for me is too much), but then the full desing leaked and the Pixel 2 ended up horrible. For me it was 650 + taxes for the pixel 2, with 64 gb and outdated design. On the other hand Essential is 700 for 128gb an much better looking, also I had the oportunity to saw one at a local best buy and it was amazing on the hand, great build quality.
If you have no problem with spending 850+ dlls for a phone and you really need the fastest Android updates then go for the Pixel XL 2, but I think the essential is at a reallly good point right know and it looks like things are going to be better

combat goofwing said:
So you will have all had the phone for a month or so now .
Still waiting here for the UK release ,but is it worth waiting for ,love the design of it
What's all your views on it .
my choices are
Wait for essential in the UK
Pixel 2 XL
HTC U11 + if it comes es to the UK
LG V30
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently own both the HTC U11 and Essential with the pixel 2 XL on order, so if you are familiar with the U11, i can give you a fairly good idea of what you'l be getting with the essential. Between the two I have, they are very different and you get different value for your money. With the essential you get 128GB, great build and materials. I love the look and design. The edge to edge display is really something you have to see in person to appreciate. Having had the s8+, the Essentials bezel less design is better in my opinion. Battery size is ok at 3040mAh. It's also getting update pretty frequently so there's hope all bugs will be ironed out soon. So far nothing I can't live with.
I think you can get the U11 for $550 and $650 for the 64gb and 128GB respectively. I'm guessing the U11+ will be similar to the U11 in terms of specs, but with hopefully a larger, less bezel. So with the U11 as reference you get a more traditional, possibly outdated design. You either love it or hate it for it's "classic" look. Aside from that you get a solidly built phone as well. It feels good in the hand, it runs great with probably one of the only android skins I actually like. It has a really good camera, once having had the highest DxO score for a bit until it was overtaken by the iphone and now pixels. Still a great camera none the less, miles ahead better than the essential, so I expect the U11+ to have the same if not slightly better. Still nothing wrong if it's the same camera in my opinion. The U11 has a 3000mAh battery, so I expect the U11+ to have at least that much, hopefully more. The edge sense is actually pretty cool and useful too once you setup custom actions per app.
Then's there' s cost. The essential is $700 US dollars for 128GB. If the U11 is $750 normally for 128GB, I can only assume the U11+ will be more if a 128 option exists. The U11+ will most likely have sd card support. That's still cheaper than the pixel 2xl that starts at $850 for 64gb and $950 for 128gb with the exact same internals, with a much better camera. but pixel does have bigger screen but s8 like bezels on top and bottom. At least there's speakers there but if you want edge to edge, the essential is a nicer looking option.
I actually prefer the Essential over my U11. The camera isn't that important to me on a smart phone. It works, takes decent pictures if needed. I'm no professional and I don't pretend to be. But the look, feels and size is what makes the essential my daily driver now. I am totally happy with my essential, and I'll be critical with the pixel 2 given all the good the essential has. I don't regret my purchase and even got one for the wife

Personally I love the essential phone. My favorite this is the size of the phone. It's pretty much identical to size of the Galaxy S5 and it's all screen. As far as software, I don't really have any issues at all anymore, the occasional things creeps up from time to time. Every phone has those random little on offs. There isn't a software on Earth that hasn't frozen hasn't lagged hasn't bugged out at one time or another. Essential has done a really great job of keeping consistent updates coming. Through both the monthly security updates and via essential services and resources app on the play store.
I could honestly careless about the camera, it has never been a selling point for me on a phone ever. That being said, I don't have any issues taking pictures and they turn just fine for me. If you want to shoot a movie on your phone(like all the reviewers expect a phone camera to clearly do) maybe look towards the pixel. I have no interest in pixel xl 2 because it's to dam big for my hands and those size phones are hard for me to use. After using this phone, I have no interest in using a phone that has bezels as big as the regular pixel 2.
You can't go wrong with either phone, and unless you pre-order the pixel 2 xl it's going to be a wait for that device as well.

swagglepuff said:
Personally I love the essential phone. My favorite this is the size of the phone. It's pretty much identical to size of the Galaxy S5 and it's all screen. As far as software, I don't really have any issues at all anymore, the occasional things creeps up from time to time. Every phone has those random little on offs. There isn't a software on Earth that hasn't frozen hasn't lagged hasn't bugged out at one time or another. Essential has done a really great job of keeping consistent updates coming. Through both the monthly security updates and via essential services and resources app on the play store.
I could honestly careless about the camera, it has never been a selling point for me on a phone ever. That being said, I don't have any issues taking pictures and they turn just fine for me. If you want to shoot a movie on your phone(like all the reviewers expect a phone camera to clearly do) maybe look towards the pixel. I have no interest in pixel xl 2 because it's to dam big for my hands and those size phones are hard for me to use. After using this phone, I have no interest in using a phone that has bezels as big as the regular pixel 2.
You can't go wrong with either phone, and unless you pre-order the pixel 2 xl it's going to be a wait for that device as well.
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Now that I have used for a while, the reviews were really hard. Saying that this phone is bad and telling people not to buy it only because the camare is not good makes me wonder what kind of "reviews" and "tech journalism" we have today

TheDethEgineer said:
Now that I have used for a while, the reviews were really hard. Saying that this phone is bad and telling people not to buy it only because the camare is not good makes me wonder what kind of "reviews" and "tech journalism" we have today
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Click to collapse
Exactly, I have been waging a war on Android central recently and their over bias bull**** reviews. Sites like those only care about flagship devices, infact the only phones they don't say bad things about are Samsung. That same attitude has rolled over to the forums, just a bunch of people who have never even seen one in person saying it's a horrible device. Yet I come to the good ol' XDA it's full of people actually trying to help other users.
That's why I don't buy phones based on reviews, if I listened to Android central, I would have never owned the HTC 10, the Honor 8 or the axon 7. All of which are fantastic devices, but because they don't do things like Samsung they all got ****ty reviews and recommendations.
---------- Post added at 11:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:04 PM ----------
QD2DC said:
I currently own both the HTC U11 and Essential with the pixel 2 XL on order, so if you are familiar with the U11, i can give you a fairly good idea of what you'l be getting with the essential. Between the two I have, they are very different and you get different value for your money. With the essential you get 128GB, great build and materials. I love the look and design. The edge to edge display is really something you have to see in person to appreciate. Having had the s8+, the Essentials bezel less design is better in my opinion. Battery size is ok at 3040mAh. It's also getting update pretty frequently so there's hope all bugs will be ironed out soon. So far nothing I can't live with.
I think you can get the U11 for $550 and $650 for the 64gb and 128GB respectively. I'm guessing the U11+ will be similar to the U11 in terms of specs, but with hopefully a larger, less bezel. So with the U11 as reference you get a more traditional, possibly outdated design. You either love it or hate it for it's "classic" look. Aside from that you get a solidly built phone as well. It feels good in the hand, it runs great with probably one of the only android skins I actually like. It has a really good camera, once having had the highest DxO score for a bit until it was overtaken by the iphone and now pixels. Still a great camera none the less, miles ahead better than the essential, so I expect the U11+ to have the same if not slightly better. Still nothing wrong if it's the same camera in my opinion. The U11 has a 3000mAh battery, so I expect the U11+ to have at least that much, hopefully more. The edge sense is actually pretty cool and useful too once you setup custom actions per app.
Then's there' s cost. The essential is $700 US dollars for 128GB. If the U11 is $750 normally for 128GB, I can only assume the U11+ will be more if a 128 option exists. The U11+ will most likely have sd card support. That's still cheaper than the pixel 2xl that starts at $850 for 64gb and $950 for 128gb with the exact same internals, with a much better camera. but pixel does have bigger screen but s8 like bezels on top and bottom. At least there's speakers there but if you want edge to edge, the essential is a nicer looking option.
I actually prefer the Essential over my U11. The camera isn't that important to me on a smart phone. It works, takes decent pictures if needed. I'm no professional and I don't pretend to be. But the look, feels and size is what makes the essential my daily driver now. I am totally happy with my essential, and I'll be critical with the pixel 2 given all the good the essential has. I don't regret my purchase and even got one for the wife
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Don't go saying better camera just yet. The HTC U11 and the first pixel are tied at a dxo mark of 90. While google unofficially claims a score of 98 for the new pixels we will see. I am sure HTC has plans to continue it's stellar camera software.

UK owner
I bought mine from a seller in the US as I was willing to take a chance that the early reviews were off the mark.
I've had the phone for almost 4 weeks now, and it's a great phone as far as I'm concerned.
Battery life is excellent, I get a minimum of 5 hours + SOT regularly for my usage, which I have never managed with previous phones., Even managed almost 7 hours a couple of times with lighter usage.
Latest updates from Essential have made real progress in stability.
Yes, the camera is average, but not as bad as many have said.
It takes decent photographs as far as I'm concerned, and I use it occasionally for work purposes with no problems in quality.
It does feel very nice in the hand, and the screen coverage looks great.
Hope this helps.
Something I need to mention that I initially forgot. The screen brightness when outside in sunlight. I think some of the early reviews said it was little under lit, but I think they may have adaptive brightness on, because I've used it often when out and about. I've noticed if you toggle off adaptive and adjust it manually if it's sunny, it's fine.

I would pick the PH-1 over any of those devices, the design is different in a good way, the lack of accessories (cases mainly) makes it more like a acquired taste. hey all use the same Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 and 4GB of RAM so it's based on your style. The Essential has been great to me and it turns heads. If you decide on the others - I would say Pixel 2 XL so you are ensured support

swagglepuff said:
Exactly, I have been waging a war on Android central recently and their over bias bull**** reviews. Sites like those only care about flagship devices, infact the only phones they don't say bad things about are Samsung. That same attitude has rolled over to the forums, just a bunch of people who have never even seen one in person saying it's a horrible device. Yet I come to the good ol' XDA it's full of people actually trying to help other users.
That's why I don't buy phones based on reviews, if I listened to Android central, I would have never owned the HTC 10, the Honor 8 or the axon 7. All of which are fantastic devices, but because they don't do things like Samsung they all got ****ty reviews and recommendations.
---------- Post added at 11:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:04 PM ----------
Don't go saying better camera just yet. The HTC U11 and the first pixel are tied at a dxo mark of 90. While google unofficially claims a score of 98 for the new pixels we will see. I am sure HTC has plans to continue it's stellar camera software.
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Click to collapse
Well yes and no. The score is official. But what that number equates to in real world performance is relative. To say the u11 isn't "as good" as the pixel 2 does not mean the u11 camera isn't great, although the phrase does imply that. I think a score in the 90s will result in excellent camera performance to some degree. I have no reason to believe HTC won't improve on what they've built so far. Regardless as an android user we have some quality and exciting phones to choose from.

QD2DC said:
Well yes and no. The score is official. But what that number equates to in real world performance is relative. To say the u11 isn't "as good" as the pixel 2 does not mean the u11 camera isn't great, although the phrase does imply that. I think a score in the 90s will result in excellent camera performance to some degree. I have no reason to believe HTC won't improve on what they've built so far. Regardless as an android user we have some quality and exciting phones to choose from.
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I did not know they made it official, well in that case. Let's see what HTC brings with the U11+. I have always loved HTC and their simple user interface. If the rumors are correct it will be a thin bezel design as well, which makes me excited. I honestly wouldn't have given the U11 back had it had a higher screen to body ratio. It was a little too big for my liking.

I loved the look and feel of the phone, substantial in the hand, good button feel and I liked where the buttons were.
NIce looking screen too.
Software and camera were OK,
I *hatehatehate* stock android ! First thing I have always done is root and Rom .
I returned it, very late actually like just last week as I was holding out hope of kernel and Factory image release but not soon enough. I resurrected my 6P and am still using that because I **really* love the 6P.
I would absolutely buy the PH-1 again when my 6P dies and Essential gets some ROMs.
The PH-1 is a fabulous device. Now that Xposed is live for Nougat, using Xposed on the PH-1 would greatly enhance the experience, for me. Where else are you going to get that kind of hardware and 128GB storage for under 700? I did keep the camera JIC lol
Zo0

swagglepuff said:
I did not know they made it official, well in that case. Let's see what HTC brings with the U11+. I have always loved HTC and their simple user interface. If the rumors are correct it will be a thin bezel design as well, which makes me excited. I honestly wouldn't have given the U11 back had it had a higher screen to body ratio. It was a little too big for my liking.
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Click to collapse
I know how you feel. Been an HTC fan since the windows mobile days and loved HTC manilla/rosie/sense and whatever else it was called in between lol. I miss developing for the those older phones. Sense is the only android skin I truly love. Hopefully I'll be apart of the user trials for the u11+ as well. But the essential will be a hard phone to beat design wise.

Still like my PH1. Not sure I want the Pixel 2 xl. I've got a 6p to trade on it also but it's not really a great looking device in my opinion. Haven't ruled it out though as a backup device. Honestly I really want to see if I can get the Xperia XZ1 to run on Verizon as it has all the lte bands. Plus it's got aptx for my home Bluetooth setup. Sony hates the US so it's been an impossible task so far.
Sent from my PH-1 using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Thanks guys ,some great responses and information,still using my trusty N6P ,if I could gather a UK release date on the PH-1 it would help ,but essential seem reluctant to commit to one so far .Had the early shut down issues in the N6P ,but I changed the battery for lots more life in it just yet .

combat goofwing said:
Thanks guys ,some great responses and information,still using my trusty N6P ,if I could gather a UK release date on the PH-1 it would help ,but essential seem reluctant to commit to one so far .Had the early shut down issues in the N6P ,but I changed the battery for lots more life in it just yet .
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Not sure if www.swappa.com is an option for you but they have some on sale, from used to mint. I buy and sell and on there all the time. Extremely reliable, PayPal verified and secure. One in mint condition at $620 isn't bad.

Related

Long term Pixel opinion?

What's your opinion of this phone now that it's been out for more than six months?
Build quality, development, etc.
Compared to previous phones or compared to whatever your expectations might have been.
Me?
I'm sorry to say that I wish I never left my Moto X Pure with BrokenOS' MarshMallow ROM.
Pixel is great though, in many ways.
It was a much needed update from my aging Nexus 6.
Was briefly contemplating iPhone, but stuck with the Pixel.
Overall, I love the camera, the battery is a champ, and so far I feel no need or want to modify the device.
I think google did well with this one.
Let's hope LG doesn't botch the next one.
LoopLoopLoopLoop
CZ Eddie said:
What's your opinion of this phone now that it's been out for more than six months?
Build quality, development, etc.
Compared to previous phones or compared to whatever your expectations might have been.
Me?
I'm sorry to say that I wish I never left my Moto X Pure with BrokenOS' MarshMallow ROM.
Pixel is great though, in many ways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the cherry ? bomb. Like all my Google phones.
Unprecedented battery life.
Fast as Lightning (Especially w/sdcardfs)
No cracks or damage.
Best reception I have ever had.
Extremely challenging to hack. Very easy once you have the slots and Google stops playing games. Lol
Speaker sucks. But I can live with it.
Never have and never will buy anything but a Google phone.
I can go on and on.....
BTW Moto Rocks!
I came from an S5 so anything would have been an upgrade for me. So this thing is screaming fast to me
I bought the phone after I had to send my Note 7 back. I liked it, but didn't keep it long. I've been through a few different phones in the meantime, but finally came back. It's faster than any phone I've used, and still feels really solid, and good in the hand
I came from a N6 as well. I miss the stereo speakers and the bigger screen size of the N6.
The positives of Pixel are the speed, battery life and the general smoothness of the phone.
The cons are pathetic speakers (What was google thinking?), huge bezels (which I find hard to digest coming from a lesser bezel N6) and the lack of development. On my N6 I had flashed almost 10 custom ROMs at different times.
There is hardly much choice for Pixel XL other than a handful ROMs. Perhaps the high price of the phone and the slot rigmarole turns off developers here.
I'm happy with the Pixel , but it was close to $900 and I just feel that I did not get my money's worth. That said, I can't deal with non-Google phones. Was thinking about a One Plus 5, but that's about it. Hopefully Google does something nicer with Pixel XL2.
I love stock Android and EAS is the best thing to happen to Android but..
Just can't justify the price for what you get. I'm a big Audio guy and the speaker is worst I've heard along with 3.5mm jack just sounds awful..
have to run an External DAC to make up for the poor quality
Video recording seems a bit meh blury/grainy no matter what I can't take a clear video unless it's in direct sunlight and then have to deal with the *Lense Flare* another pain in the ass
Rest of the phone is good
Development it's pretty much none existent seems like if you want roms/kernel's either stick with a 6P or OnePlus/Other China device
But I feel like it should of been priced at same as the 6P $440 we only got minor improvements nothing "WOW" to make up for the $300 extra..
I guess we paid for that "Made By Google" bs marketing. Also was never in stock anywhere + the hardware issues drove people away lets hope HTC isn't making again so we can have a great launch and hopefully bring people back :good:
liam_davenport said:
I love stock Android and EAS is the best thing to happen to Android but..
Just can't justify the price for what you get. I'm a big Audio guy and the speaker is worst I've heard along with 3.5mm jack just sounds awful..
have to run an External DAC to make up for the poor quality
Video recording seems a bit meh blury/grainy no matter what I can't take a clear video unless it's in direct sunlight and then have to deal with the *Lense Flare* another pain in the ass
Rest of the phone is good
Development it's pretty much none existent seems like if you want roms/kernel's either stick with a 6P or OnePlus/Other China device
But I feel like it should of been priced at same as the 6P $440 we only got minor improvements nothing "WOW" to make up for the $300 extra..
I guess we paid for that "Made By Google" bs marketing. Also was never in stock anywhere + the hardware issues drove people away lets hope HTC isn't making again so we can have a great launch and hopefully bring people back :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do miss the value days of the Nexus program. Minus Shamu of course. That was expensive. When I bought those Nexus, I felt like I was getting an incredible value for a smartphone.
Here is something I truly value and want everyone to think about.
How much is it worth to us for,
Monthly security updates
Major OS upgrades for two years
Bugfixes along the way
I'll tell you by saying what I've chosen as my daily driver and where my SIM card is and what's in my pocket right now. I've had marlin since Nov '16 and iPhone 7 plus since Jan '17. The marlin is in my pocket right now. The iPhone 7 plus is a great device (iMessages, waterproof) but the reason I love android is the ability to modify (stock or ROM-root-kernel) and access to that SD Card. Otherwise the 2 are pretty much equal as to camera, battery, speed, smoothness, response to touches, etc. at least in my perception. So, obviously I'm very pleased with marlin since I prefer it to a very popular alternative. Had a Samsung Galaxy S7 in early 2016 but sold it after 2 months, Pixel much better device to me.
iamjimmy said:
I came from a N6 as well. I miss the stereo speakers and the bigger screen size of the N6.
The positives of Pixel are the speed, battery life and the general smoothness of the phone.
The cons are pathetic speakers (What was google thinking?), huge bezels (which I find hard to digest coming from a lesser bezel N6) and the lack of development. On my N6 I had flashed almost 10 custom ROMs at different times.
There is hardly much choice for Pixel XL other than a handful ROMs. Perhaps the high price of the phone and the slot rigmarole turns off developers here.
I'm happy with the Pixel , but it was close to $900 and I just feel that I did not get my money's worth. That said, I can't deal with non-Google phones. Was thinking about a One Plus 5, but that's about it. Hopefully Google does something nicer with Pixel XL2.
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Click to collapse
Agreed 100%. Thats why i skipped this one looking forward to the next one. For the price it must have stereo speaker, better audio, water resist, better design and quality. Oh and wireless charging. Then i will jump right in.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Six month user here. And my main complaint for the Pixel remains exactly same as it was back when I bought it. The sudden freezing problem. Just out of nowhere the screen freezes for a second or two, if I am playing a game, then its done, simply over, have to restart, and I can't express how much I hate that. Of course its most noticeable/affecting while gaming, but it happens basically everywhere too, but just less frustrating in other places.
I was advised to format the phone, not root it and blah blah but exact same happened there too, without installing any apps at all! Ridiculous problem and IMHO the most annoying issue Pixels have.
Other than this, I don't know, sometimes the low light photos come with a really weird greenish cast, completely off coloured and way too much noise (yeah with HDR+ On, that's the only one I use anyway) etc.
But other than these two, I have no complaints. Tremendous call quality, more than acceptable display (though still no Apple!), excellent GPS (though Google Maps says to calibrate compass every now and then), buttery smooth interface all around most times, at max volume the loudspeaker is excellent (though at half volume it can't be heard and equally ****e!), really low SAR value etc., I am contemplating the U11 now, just for the sound and camera, but if I don't go that route I am gonna keep this phone for at least two years, and the maximum I have ever used a mobile phone was for 15 months, the Galaxy S2 back in the days, should suffice what I think about this phone.
I also have the OnePlus 3 in office, and I know some people compare it and I can say its basically Guava vs Apples comparison.
PS: Sorry didn't comment about development, but I honestly don't care much about it at all. I bought the Pixel so that I won't be needing the optimise it, let Google optimise it for me, and they did a fairly decent job, but after using Franco kernel I can say Google could have done a much better job. So that's all I need, a custom kernel.
coming from Samsung and LG devices, this phone has been a breath of fresh air even with this new partition scheme. Phone does well, battery life holds up for two days. I just have an issue with bluetooth not consistently sending music info to my radio. Some days it works, other days it's like what music info...
It's great and definitely a worthy upgrade from my Nexus 6. The only thing I miss is the front facing speakers but I didn't use them much anyways, well that and I guess it's way more slippery than my Nexus 6 because I don't use cases at all.
Couldn't be happier. Presently have a 7 Plus and the XL that I swap my sim between. IPhone is great in many ways but I just keep coming back to the Pixel XL....something about the experience I get using it that I really enjoy.
As for the other characteristics of the device others have already commented. I purchased mine at launch and received it later October.
I currently have the Nexus 6P. Damn that is a nice phone! I'm seriously doubting anything will "crush" this phones performance. But I decided I wanted to move up to the Pixel XL. I'm a decent Android gamer, so the updated GPU was nice. Plus, the camera is supposedly just that much better. Among other things, like 4GB RAM instead of the 6P's 3GB.
I don't receive the Pixel XL until Monday, so I'm wearing a path through my foyer, pacing back and forth, waiting for it to arrive.
I've spent at LEAST 30 hours this week doing research on the Pixel, its partition layout, how to get root to work, TWRP limitations, etc. This is certainly more complicated than the 6P.
Part of the reason I decided to plop down for the Pixel, was because I didn't see a lot of development going for it, as there is for the 6P. And since people seem to like my ROMs, I figured I'd toss something out there that I made, and see what kind of life it can breathe into the Pixel.
I think I'll like it. Tried it out in-hand at BestBuy yesterday. Solid device, great screen, color accuracy is actually better than the 6P, and for the first time, I kind of like the phone WITHOUT a case! Never though I'd say that.
I've used iPhones since the 3GS up until the 6S Plus (all jailbroken). I decided to try out the Nexus 6P (first ever Android phone) and fell in love with it! Custom ROMs, kernels, tweaks, Xposed, etc. were all new to me and I loved every bit of it!
However, for some reason, I decided to sell it and pick up an iPhone 7 Plus when it released. As iOS matured, security got tighter, and jailbreaking became more difficult. I got tired of waiting for a jailbreak to release and realized how locked down the OS is (when not jailbroken) compared to Android.
I sold my 7 Plus and bought this Pixel XL. I wasn't a huge fan at first, just because of the confusion with the slots and the lack of development​ compared to the 6P.
Now that there is more development and that I understand the slots better, I'm really enjoying this phone!
Overall, if I had the choice, I would still probably pick the 6P over this; that thing was just a beauty in basically every aspect, and it was the phone that first introduced me into the Android world.
Not a huge fan of the single downfiring speaker or the bottom chin, but otherwise it's a great phone, especially the camera!
I'm going to see what the OnePlus 5 has to offer, and may switch to that - but I'll definitely keep this XL around until the 2nd gen Pixels release. I'll be purchasing the second gen Pixels only if Google allows them to be development friendly like how the Nexus line was. If not, I may make a permanent switch over to the OnePlus line.
CZ Eddie said:
What's your opinion of this phone now that it's been out for more than six months?
Build quality, development, etc.
Compared to previous phones or compared to whatever your expectations might have been.
Me?
I'm sorry to say that I wish I never left my Moto X Pure with BrokenOS' MarshMallow ROM.
Pixel is great though, in many ways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I had the LG G6, S8+, and I sent the G6 back and sold the S8+. The pixel was snappier than both, better camera than both which is a great feature having and outstanding camera, and more reliable than both. I like stock Android, clean, fast, stable. I like being able to unlock and do what I want with my phone when I want and still have the same snappiness, camera quality, and reliability on custom ROMs. Most times you sacrifice things to go custom. Not with Google devices, Nexus, Pixel, etc. I still have it since released and can't see getting rid of it any time soon. Ya, maybe people thinking of OnePlus 5, but I also had the 3 and 3T and one thing I hated about that is when using anything custom, the camera was horrible, BT for me had issues, and other little nags. All in all, this is definitely my go to device and I've had many.
I give it a C+
After having the Pixel XL since I returned the Note 7 (Best phone I've ever owned IMO), There are issues with it that really bug me.
- For one, Youtube stutters and desyncs the audio from the video almost every video I watch, and I watch a lot of YT.
- Second, the bluetooth does not sync right in my Audi, and every 15 minutes it sounds like a modem for like 20 seconds and reconnects. It also doesn't know what to do on voice calls and frequently bounce back and forth between car speakers, and phone speaker mode, so I just turn it off for voice or Hangouts/Meet calls in the car.
- Third, the battery life has been dwindling over time, so I charge twice a day now. Yes, I'm a power user and need at least 6-8 hours of screen on time per day. That being said the phone charging speed is ridiculously fast. I can charge at least 50% in 30 minutes.
- The speakers are crap, and the audio jack doesn't give me enough volume. The setting between say 60-65% volume is way too loud, so the volume curve is not good.
-As a pro, the Camera is excellent, even in low light if you know what you're doing. The video, if you use the auto stability is crap so just don't use it.
The phone does stutter, and take a while sometimes. I am using the stock ROM, and have made no modifications to the file system or home screen at all. As is, this phone is average, so for the price, not worth it. I do have the Verizon version, and not sure if that makes a difference. Can't wait for the Note 8 to come out.
I've had mine since November and still love it. I came from the G7 edge which I was quite fond of as well. The following are the good things that keep me on the Pixel.
- Camera, for stills easily the best available. Wish the EIS didn't cause the jello effect when panning while video recording, but nonetheless I've been quite pleased with the camcorder as well.
- Software, clean, simple, fluid and robust. I am on stock unrooted. I reboot my phone once a month for updates and the phone never lags, gets janky or develops issues requiring a reboot. Additionally, the speed of updates means I'm always up to date with the most secure version​ of Android available.
I've had my Pixel XL 128gb since launch. I came from a Note 7, so was very challenging to get used to having a very lean software base which didn't offer many features in comparison to the Samsung series. I missed many software features from the Note 7.
The thing that gets me the most, is that I was already bored of the device 6 months in. I usually hold onto a phone for 12-24 months. The Note 4 I held onto for the longest time (24months). I enjoyed it as there were both android OS updates, and touchwiz updates, so it constantly got a new lease to life looking fresh or having new features. 8 months on and the Pixel looks exactly the same, with no updates.
I also feel that the design looked dated when I bought it, but it now is really showing it's age with the HUGE bezels. I have also struggled to find any good screen protectors (I've tried them all) as they don't sit properly. The phone is huge with a smaller screen than most phones this price/size.
It's got the worst bluetooth of any phone I have every owned, partly down to Android but also to the Pixel.
Had a lot more ROM options for Samsung, being that you can go Note 4 roms, Note 5 roms, Note 7 roms, AOSP builds, CM, MIUI. I feel like the Pixel has AOSP, stock. That's it really. They are all the same with very minor changes.
Otherwise it's mostly buttery smooth - although i'm constantly keeping my eye out for a new phone, so could be the shortest period I have owned a phone for.

Essential Phone vs Oneplus 5

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to get an idea of what you all though about the essential phone vs the oneplus 5. Why you bought/or thinking of buying one over the other...
LOL, don't waste your time... OnePlus 5!
I have a OnePlus 5 (8/128) and i don't want this ugly Essential Phone
Pho3nX said:
LOL, don't waste your time... OnePlus 5!
I have a OnePlus 5 (8/128) and i don't want this ugly Essential Phone
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Click to collapse
The essential is beautiful
If there is a decent amount of development for it, I'll most likely consider getting one
For me, oneplus 5 is the most essential phone so far!
The biggest selling point for me would be custom software development. OnePlus was always well supported. OnePlus 5 had working recoveries and root within a week from its launch.
Essential is pretty new to the game, so let's see what it can do.
Being created by Andy Rubin I assume it should be pretty developer-friendly.
What really makes the Essential phone better than the OnePlus 5? I really don't see anything outside of a bezel-less screen
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5000 using Tapatalk
Essential has no headphone jack. A pointless device that just blindly follows the latest trends. And the kernel sources aren't released for it yet, that should give you an idea how dev friendly it is.
Caitlin550 said:
That's your opinion really. In a few years OnePlus will make a move to Meizu style, so watch your words. OnePlus 5 and older OnePlus devices are open for vulnerablities.
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Any sources to vulnerablities present in 1+ phones?
Caitlin550 said:
Headphone jack will soon be removed on other phones after 2018 or 2019
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Well I'll just be removed from the list of their potential customers.
Caitlin550 said:
Do your research and then you will find out.
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No way. You are the one who brought it up so it's up to you to defend your position. Both the OnePlus 5 and Essential run Android, and there's nothing about one device being cheaper that means it's more open to vulnerabilities.
If you're referring to the ability for App Locker to be bypassed, that's going to be resolved with a system update, and any device could have had a similar flaw
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5000 using Tapatalk
Removing the headphone jack is kinda stupid in my opinion. Other than saving space and making it possible for the phone to be even thinner, there's no real benefit to removing it.
What's next to be removed? The charging port and force us to use wireless charging? If the phone has to sit on a stupid pad, it's not truly wireless. Unless I can walk around the house with it, while it's charging, it's not truly "wireless". Wireless means no wires, but it also implies mobility/freedom.
That has nothing to do with the OnePlus being a "cheaper" device. It's part of the compromises made for a very developer-friendly phone. I'm sure if the Essential's bootloader is easily unlocked, people will find some vulnerabilities with it as well.
Samsung and BlackBerry have focused on security for their phones, which often means locked bootloaders and limited access to modding abilities (not that it isn't possible, but once you do, you completely break their security layer (Samsung Knox, for instance).
There is absolutely nothing to suggest Essential has a security barrier like Knox, so your point is pretty much meaningless in a thread comparing OnePlus to Essential.
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5000 using Tapatalk
I'm on the fence between the OnePlus 5 and the Essential phone, myself.
After owning a long line of Nexus devices, a OnePlus 3, then a Google Pixel XL, I made the switch to the Galaxy S8. Overall, the S8 has actually been great. But it does come with its annoyances, namely Samsung CONSTANTLY trying to push their proprietary apps through random weekly notifications and the Bixby interface. I've disabled a lot of the Samsung bloatware apps but the phone still lags/hangs more often than my OnePlus 3 or Pixel XL ever did, which is just sad. So I'm ready to get back into the more "pure Android" experience.
I was initially planning on holding out until the Pixel 2/Pixel XL 2 were announced but reputable rumors are consistently showing that the regular pixel will just have a 5" screen with huge bezels again and the XL 2 will be a monster of a phone with a 6" screen that matches the size of the S8+ but with even larger bezels. It will be pushing 6.4" tall, which is simply too big for me. So I've decided to look at other options. The reviews of the OnePlus 5 have been excellent and I was extremely close to pulling the trigger on one until news of the Essential phone really started to break recently.
These days I don't really root/mod my phones so that isn't much of a concern. And after experiencing the bezel-less life of the S8, it would be tough for me to go back to something with 2015/2016 size bezels. This is why the Essential phone really has my attention, at the moment. Plus the design of the Essential phone is very original and I love just about everything about it. However, I will admit that at least OnePlus makes good use of the large bottom bezel with the capacitive keys and finger print scanner. Not to mention that it costs over $150 less than the Essential Phone.
Personally, I'm having a really tough time deciding between the two. At least I've ruled out all other options, at this point.
sn0warmy said:
I'm on the fence between the OnePlus 5 and the Essential phone, myself.
After owning a long line of Nexus devices, a OnePlus 3, then a Google Pixel XL, I made the switch to the Galaxy S8. Overall, the S8 has actually been great. But it does come with its annoyances, namely Samsung CONSTANTLY trying to push their proprietary apps through random weekly notifications and the Bixby interface. I've disabled a lot of the Samsung bloatware apps but the phone still lags/hangs more often than my OnePlus 3 or Pixel XL ever did, which is just sad. So I'm ready to get back into the more "pure Android" experience.
I was initially planning on holding out until the Pixel 2/Pixel XL 2 were announced but reputable rumors are consistently showing that the regular pixel will just have a 5" screen with huge bezels again and the XL 2 will be a monster of a phone with a 6" screen that matches the size of the S8+ but with even larger bezels. It will be pushing 6.4" tall, which is simply to big for me. So I've decided to look at other options. The reviews of the OnePlus 5 have been excellent and I was extremely close to pulling the trigger on one until news of the Essential phone really started to break recently.
These days I don't really root/mod my phones so that isn't much of a concern. And after experiencing the bezel-less life of the S8, it would be tough for me to go back to something with 2015/2016 size bezels. This is why the Essential phone really has my attention, at the moment. However, I will admit that at least OnePlus makes good use of the large bottom bezel with the capacitive keys and finger print scanner. Not to mention that it costs over $150 less than the Essential Phone.
Personally, I'm having a really tough time deciding between the two. At east I've ruled out all other options, at this point.
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The 8ngig of ram is nice. I have oneplus 5 8 gig ram version. I am looking g at the essential phone BC it looks so great.
GCbard said:
The 8ngig of ram is nice. I have oneplus 5 8 gig ram version. I am looking g at the essential phone BC it looks so great.
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While I'm not usually one to harp solely on specs, the Essential phone coming out with just 4GB of RAM is a head scratcher. Apps and OS features are taking up more and more resources these days and we are hitting a point where 4GB RAM just isn't cutting it anymore. Which is why I'm also surprised that the 2nd generation of Pixel phones are rumored to only have 4GB of RAM, as well.
I should say that the use of an LCD display on the Essential Phone is a bit baffling, also. It's 2017, OLED screens are the new standard. I'd understand if they stuck with LCD to cut costs and make the phone cheaper. But it still starts at $700, so that logic doesn't seem to hold. And to top off the negatives on the Essential Phone, all the current video reviews are very "meh" about the camera performance. All of this has me realizing that I'd only be getting the Essential Phone for the bezel-less design. Hm....
sn0warmy said:
While I'm not usually one to harp solely on specs, the Essential phone coming out with just 4GB of RAM is a head scratcher. Apps and OS features are taking up more and more resources these days and we are hitting a point where 4GB RAM just isn't cutting it anymore. Which is why I'm also surprised that the 2nd generation of Pixel phones are rumored to only have 4GB of RAM, as well.
I should say that the use of an LCD display on the Essential Phone is a bit baffling, also. It's 2017, OLED screens are the new standard. I'd understand if they stuck with LCD to cut costs and make the phone cheaper. But it still starts at $700, so that logic doesn't seem to hold. And to top off the negatives on the Essential Phone, all the current video reviews are very "meh" about the camera performance. All of this has me realizing that I'd only be getting the Essential Phone for the bezel-less design. Hm....
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I would honestly wait until the Essential is released for general public. Those "reviews" are more like previews at the moment. So, if you're not in a hurry, wait a lil bit longer.
I heard the new Nokia 8 also runs stock android and it starts at 600€ so it may also be an option.
I am honestly satisfied with the OnePlus 5. But this is very subjective since I'm coming from a Galaxy S4 and the OnePlus 5 is a huge update.
Difference is $460 phone vs $700 phone. End of discussion.
Too many gimmicks on that device. Its a 300 dollar phone at a 900 dollar price tag. I dont see the point in accepting this newcomer. Gotta figure Rubin "left" for a reason. I doubt this thing will catch on. If Huawei cant in the us i doubt this thing can worldwide
If Essential provide sources and keep it quick it could be the phone to go for regardless of the price, After owning a OP3 for a year the software and sources have been hit and miss.. closest we'll get to a Nexus atm but Essential could be the new nexus since they provide the same support as Google on the software side, OP however it could be abandoned any time.. Let's hope Essential hit it right

Nexus 6p to Essential!

Im really thinking about the Essental, its pretty much down to this or G Pixel 2 XL, , but the price point and features of the essential are way better, it looks better too, specwise they are very similiar.
I love Project Fi though , i pay only what use , so if my plan is $60 bucks but i only use $20, i pay $20, thats the thing about the Pixel, but at over a $1000 bucks it looks like the Essential with $60/ unlimited by Sprint is a better deal
Anyone else coming from 6P, ive been a Nitrogen rom guy since day one , i love the 6 p , but once you get the battery bug "25%" , the hardware fails quivkly and its time to move on , this is my second 6P ,
Also switching betweeen Sprint/tmobile/uscellular is really cool, however the best service abd what im on 99% of the time is Sprint anyway, its looking like the Essential is tge one
Im coming from.Nexus 6p, OnePlus One , Moto X developers, Note 2, S2 , Note and a few HTCs before that
Well camera is better in 6P and Pixel 2. More features in these phones, there are really no special things at all in essential. Don't get me wrong, i like that. Software is not mature enough, but the Oreo-beta seems Essential are going the right way. Lineage 14.1 is availible and its great. Lineage 15 on the way too. The size of the phone, and the overall quality of it is the best i've ever had! It's a great phone for the price and if price matters, this is a great alternative to pixel 2.
Get the essential phone. No regrats, YOLO swagin here on Oreo and magisk.
Don't get no ca ca lg made phone ?
I upgraded from the original ones one lineage and this phone is very similar in terms of software but very different, upgraded hardware.
Do you want something that already looks dated (pixel 2 or xl2) or do you want that flashy iPhone X look and save $500+ cash?
It's no brainer when you think about how fash technologies advance. Not worth the price and on top of that the stupid little issues they are having.
If I'm paying $1100+ for a phone it better be damn perfect and have the best build quality out there...the new pixels are not...get the essential
I moved from 6P to Essentials over a week ago originally due to the battery bug problem. I was tired of carrying around a battery pack and random phone shutdown at 35% battery. Disclosure, I'm not a techy or an enthusiast so my feedback from just a regular user's perspective. Overall, I'm very happy with the quality and price I paid ($450). I was looking at Pixel 2xl, LG V30 but the design/build with the attractive price point of Essential sealed the deal. The camera is pretty decent. I have no complaints about it. I sideloaded Google camera app and used both Essential and Google apps. I don't find much difference between the two. The pictures from Google app seem to be brighter but Essential app seem quicker to me. Battery is excellent but that's sort of a low bar coming from 6P with battery issue. Software-wise, I'm ok with not being on Oreo it didn't impact my daily use much and overall the softwares on the phones are ok. I think to me this is the best-looking android phones I have ever seen. The build with premium materials and the design look great and feel great in your hands. With the hardware spec not much different from Pixel 2 or LG V30 and the right pricing, I'm willing to compromise somewhat and I was extremely happy with it. Hope this helps.
AndroidDC said:
I moved from 6P to Essentials over a week ago originally due to the battery bug problem. I was tired of carrying around a battery pack and random phone shutdown at 35% battery. Disclosure, I'm not a techy or an enthusiast so my feedback from just a regular user's perspective. Overall, I'm very happy with the quality and price I paid ($450). I was looking at Pixel 2xl, LG V30 but the design/build with the attractive price point of Essential sealed the deal. The camera is pretty decent. I have no complaints about it. I sideloaded Google camera app and used both Essential and Google apps. I don't find much difference between the two. The pictures from Google app seem to be brighter but Essential app seem quicker to me. Battery is excellent but that's sort of a low bar coming from 6P with battery issue. Software-wise, I'm ok with not being on Oreo it didn't impact my daily use much and overall the softwares on the phones are ok. I think to me this is the best-looking android phones I have ever seen. The build with premium materials and the design look great and feel great in your hands. With the hardware spec not much different from Pixel 2 or LG V30 and the right pricing, I'm willing to compromise somewhat and I was extremely happy with it. Hope this helps.
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Same here. Came from a 6P. Did not get the first Pixel because the screen was 5.5 and that was too small for me. Got one of the first essential phones that came out. Had some bugs and they fixed it. Looked into the Pixel XL. Like the larger screen but the price is absurd when you get basically the same with the Essential. Running Oreo beta. No other kids, root or such. Phone works well for me. Camera is adequate for my needs.
Also came from 6P & I freaking love the Essential phone. The build quality is phenomenal and I can get by with the camera. Google didn't do it right to many issues with pixel 2. Go with Essential you won't regret it.
Came from a 6p as my battery was dying at 40% and I bought my phone from best buy instead of google so google could care less that their phone failed me. got the $160 deal on the phone from sprint and liking it so far way better battery camera is decent with the google app and is pretty snappy. the bugs can be annoying but i think it will be good once oreo is out of beta I Hope. really just happy I don't have to carry around my batter pack anymore.
DAC.IT said:
Im really thinking about the Essental, its pretty much down to this or G Pixel 2 XL, , but the price point and features of the essential are way better, it looks better too, specwise they are very similiar.
I love Project Fi though , i pay only what use , so if my plan is $60 bucks but i only use $20, i pay $20, thats the thing about the Pixel, but at over a $1000 bucks it looks like the Essential with $60/ unlimited by Sprint is a better deal
Anyone else coming from 6P, ive been a Nitrogen rom guy since day one , i love the 6 p , but once you get the battery bug "25%" , the hardware fails quivkly and its time to move on , this is my second 6P ,
Also switching betweeen Sprint/tmobile/uscellular is really cool, however the best service abd what im on 99% of the time is Sprint anyway, its looking like the Essential is tge one
Im coming from.Nexus 6p, OnePlus One , Moto X developers, Note 2, S2 , Note and a few HTCs before that
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I came from a 6P to and Essential PH-1.
I sent mine back but I was in the first wave of phones with the high price and all the issues.
I have a LG G6 but I'd trade the LG G6 to get a PH-1 again since most of the issues are resolved and accessories are available.
Also at $500 it's the phone bargain of the year.
The feel and form factor are great.
The Quality feels every bit as good as the iPhone X.
Also the XL is bigger and doesn't feel as good. YMMV
Also the XL costs almost double.
Unless the camera is your thing go for the PH-1.
I went 6p to Axon7(great device by the way) to Essential. All were good upgrades over the other. My Essential camera is just as good and really has taken some better pics than either of the devices before it using Gcam. Only thing I miss is the accessories as I'm a case and protector whore.
Go For It
Two 6P's and a Moto X developer phone also. Essential phone is now my daily driver with absolutely no regrets. I'm using Verizon's networkdue to location. Only reasons not to get this would be if you have to have Fi, or have to have headsets. Super quality build, camera on 6P is slightly better, screen is worse on the 6P. For size, imagine that just the screen on the 6P is the size of the whole phone. Battery is so much better. Underwhelmed by the overpriced new Pixels.
Sprint has you sign up never telling you they dont have the goddamn device in stock, they wait til you order it , then send an email that says were sorry its back ordered tough **** asshole , wont have any til christmas, but we are still charging you fees and the overnight shipping and anything else, thats piss poor
I canceled and gave my opinion of the way Sprint is f ucking people , they never mention anywhere that they dont have the phone instock and encourage you to use overnight shipping if you do it before 2 pm for $10 bucks, once you sign up, they send an email and blame the manufacturers of not having enough devices, if this was a first run fone id say ok , this fone came out in august, uts your fwult Sprint and lying to public is bull****
i have some experience of what you have so let me give my 2 cents.
i came from HTC M9 and Moto X Pure on Sprint. i still have my SERO-P Plan but instead i dont lease phones (because they make me switch my plan). I bought the Essential phone in the end of Oct. at best buy and im quite happy with it compared to the other two. At first, i had to return it because it would not activate on sprint and we couldnt figure out why. so i returned it and got another one. the other one turns out though was slippery like glass and overheated so i returned it... then after reading the XDA forums i noticed there is a heavier weight on the new ones so we weighed it before i took it. the new one is actually much more grippy than the last even with dry hands.
what i love about it:
first... the battery life. easily the best in battery life. i get 5 to 6 hours on a normal day of on screen time
fast android updates. the newest updates you have to take out your sprint sim, put a gsm sim and from there it will take the updates
the size, beauty, and weight
internet speed is pretty good too, thought gigabit speed is a hard time of getting actual confirmation from them. ive received on a few occasions 70+ mbps in my small town where ive gotten 30 last time with m9 and x pure.
the look is amazing and pure android is the icing on the cake.
bad things are:
camera is been improved since ive gotten it but still needs work. the issue ive experienced is the graininess.
sometimes i miss calls and texts (not sure if its sprint or the phone itself) but what i noticed is its pretty good compared to the m9 as far as bars go. the x pure was better in signal but it never got the speeds i got from this phone.
usb-c dongle but there is a 3.5mm mod coming for the phone soon from what i heard
response could be improved a bit
overall i will say go for it. despite the negative review... i still give it a 4.5 out of 5 because its andy rubin who knows how to tweak android anyway he feels like it and so far they did alot of improvement with just software updates. do a speed test with your 6p and essential and see for yourself. post a video if you can
Well im still up in the air , im not gonna use Sprint , i dont like being lied to, you dont start a relationship with a lie it never ends well, that being said, i dig the Essential and it is unkocked, just wish Fi would accept it, im also looking at the Pixel 2 XL and the Razer , seen another flagship killer called the Blackview S8 and id jusmp for a samsung S8+ , if the bl.was unlocked , i wont ever buy a locked boot loader unless it can be unlocked , thanks for the review that was what i wanted
I came for the 6P as well and I have no regrets. I do miss the camera on the 6P but I tend to still carry it around for the camera and mess with the os with new roms.
With the gcam port the essential takes some good shots.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
gman2pi said:
Two 6P's and a Moto X developer phone also. Essential phone is now my daily driver with absolutely no regrets. I'm using Verizon's networkdue to location. Only reasons not to get this would be if you have to have Fi, or have to have headsets. Super quality build, camera on 6P is slightly better, screen is worse on the 6P. For size, imagine that just the screen on the 6P is the size of the whole phone. Battery is so much better. Underwhelmed by the overpriced new Pixels.
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@gman2pi or anyone on Verizon's network. how is the data speed and connectivity? My 6P has been having the shutdown issue at 50% and i missed emergency calls text today.
Was so frustrated that I ordered a battery tried to replace it and broke the damn phone and need one ASAP.
My concern has been the thread with the connectivity issues that the phone is having and slow data speeds.
qnc said:
@gman2pi or anyone on Verizon's network. how is the data speed and connectivity? My 6P has been having the shutdown issue at 50% and i missed emergency calls text today.
Was so frustrated that I ordered a battery tried to replace it and broke the damn phone and need one ASAP.
My concern has been the thread with the connectivity issues that the phone is having and slow data speeds.
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I've had no issues and get the same bar strength and performance as my 6P in my usual locations. I only use phone, text, and primarily e-mail and some downloads on their network. I don't stream much on cellular and don't use Verizon visual voicemail or their other "special features" so can't comment on that.
Thanks, button presses.
Now I'm kind of salty because i got an email from best buy where i could have gotten one with the camera for $500 and i did not pull the trigger.
Came from og pixel, earpiece speaker blew, then went back to my nexus 6.. then this.. battery life is insane..on verizon signal seems great though i have missed some calls.. not sure why.. but great build quality.. no regrets
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Currently have a 6P that I replaced the battery on. I am ordering the pixel 2 xl. It's a lot more money, but the video stabilization is so bad on the essential I couldn't buy it.

Regrets? Overrated?

So, i'm a noob to 1+ devices having got my 6T last November and it being my first 1+ device ever. Overall, I really like the device and it's definitely one of the best I've owned. I just don't feel it has lived up to all the hype. I have two lines and still use my Pixel 2XL and lately I'm finding myself liking my P2XL more than my 6T. Believe it or not I feel like my P2XL is faster and more fluid. Anyone else feel similar? I'm not trying to bash the 6T I'm just curious if anyone else feels like me.
Make sure you're on the latest firmware (9.0.11). The 6T OWNS the Pixel 3, let alone the 2, in just about every area except the camera, which gets better with every update. Give it a real chance, you wont be disappointed.
No regrets here. Absolutely love the 6T. My favorite device I've owned and I've owned plenty.
A little regret because I can benefit from its top specs at all. It doesn't support volte or vowifi in Canada.
Sent from my ONEPLUS 6T using Tapatalk
imucarmen said:
So, i'm a noob to 1+ devices having got my 6T last November and it being my first 1+ device ever. Overall, I really like the device and it's definitely one of the best I've owned. I just don't feel it has lived up to all the hype. I have two lines and still use my Pixel 2XL and lately I'm finding myself liking my P2XL more than my 6T. Believe it or not I feel like my P2XL is faster and more fluid. Anyone else feel similar? I'm not trying to bash the 6T I'm just curious if anyone else feels like me.
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I am kind of in similar situation.. I have Pixel 2 XL and bought OnePlus 6T.. Though 6T is faster, I feel my 2 XL is smoother and has better experience overall.. and man 6T kills my apps even after disabling all battery optimizations... I even miss voice calls and WhatsApp calls sometimes... Thinking of returning 6T
I had a P2XL previously and moved to a 6T in November. Unless things have improved lately, I found the 6T to be smoother for me. As stated by others, the only area I think the P2XL was better was in the camera, though I have been quite impressed by the pictures taken on the 6T for its price, especially with recent updates. I know we have the GCam port, but think it's still quite buggy. I would be very happy if somehow the HDR+ algorithm was integrated into the stock camera, though highly unlikely. No regrets here.
The obly regret is camera and camera app. The xamera app is so bad, no video recording options
Overrated imo, Price is too high now for what we get their is better value to be had elsewhere, Mi Mix 3 for example in UK it's the same price, Better Camera sensors/software, Better Display and wireless charging etc. OP3 was awesome for it's low price but OP6T doesn't live up to that, OnePlus hype is over for me probably my last OnePlus device.
liam_davenport said:
Overrated imo, Price is too high now for what we get their is better value to be had elsewhere, Mi Mix 3 for example in UK it's the same price, Better Camera sensors/software, Better Display and wireless charging etc. OP3 was awesome for it's low price but OP6T doesn't live up to that, OnePlus hype is over for me probably my last OnePlus device.
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Well said. The development for Xiaomi devices has been very good, I think that is what I will try next.
No regrets here either, have owned a lot of phones in the past and this one of the best if not the best. Miss wireless charging but the beast battery last forever.
Only had the 6T for a little over a month. Had the OnePlus one, but did not like it. Too many glitches.
They've improved a bunch. For the price, in my opinion, good bang for the buck!
I've owned a LOT of phones over the years. OP6T ranks right up there as far as I'm concerned.
Regrets? Most phones with this hardware are around 1000 euro. Almost every phone factory gets very greedy.
Well the fact that I got this phone for $280 bucks by trading in my s7 edge, I would say is the best deal for any phone I've ever had except for the HTC amaze which I got for free from staples 5 years ago. I would not have paid 580 as I have a brand new note 8 so it was just a back up. It's my 1st and I think it's nice, better then most at this price point.
null0seven said:
Regrets? Most phones with this hardware are around 1000 euro. Almost every phone factory gets very greedy.
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Don't forget OnePlus is a budget phone with flagship SoC, Storage/RAM only rest of the phone is just cut corners to keep the cost low.
Do you tend to own phones for more than two years? If not, you'll see the overall value and abilities OnePlus devices tend to offer over other devices in the fragmentation department. My OnePlus 3 was still going very strong and I only updated because I was a sucker for the 6T. But truthfully, I never had an issue with my 3 slowing down or developing faults. I can't say the same for any LG, Samsung, or Motorola devices I've owned. OnePlus failure rates are some of the lowest in the industry, and it's evident as to why if you see videos of their manufacturing process on YouTube (Linus Tech Tips and Unbox Therapy I believe).
Sure, other devices may have explosive features that OnePlus may not always include. But at what cost? For the price, stability, support and power that you get with a OnePlus is unmatched. The 3 is STILL getting updates and works great. But if you're someone who updates regularly, I can see why maybe you'd feel like you're missing out.
g_oral said:
The obly regret is camera and camera app. The xamera app is so bad, no video recording options
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You know, I thought the same thing but if you take the time to figure out the software its really not that bad at all. Coming from a Pixel 2 XL, I am content with these photos but it seriously took me some time to get used to the camera. Work on your focus, leave HDR on auto; you will be good.
No regrets here.
kidruk said:
You know, I thought the same thing but if you take the time to figure out the software its really not that bad at all. Coming from a Pixel 2 XL, I am content with these photos but it seriously took me some time to get used to the camera. Work on your focus, leave HDR on auto; you will be good.
No regrets here.
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I just cant stand those oil painting finish photos. Its app problem because on gcam photos looks much better, more details and no oil paint effect.
And i cannot use the stock camera app for movies. There are no settings or options. No focus lenght, no white ballance, no controls for manual control.
Well, if anyone cares I can say that the 6t has been the most awful phone I have ever owned. I literally now own a $700 brick. And OnePlus the company should be ashamed of themselves. I am fighting to get this phone running. And customer support has gone 100% silent on me. My last call, I got the perpetu-hold by the agent and I hung up after about 30 minutes of waiting for her to "consult a coworker". It's been so bad that I am trying to social shame them. I have a youtube post titled "Why my OnePlus 6T sucks and OnePlus Support is awful". I would link it, but I'm too new on the forum.
It's why I'm now on this forum trying anything I can to get this phone working.
TheGorf said:
Well, if anyone cares I can say that the 6t has been the most awful phone I have ever owned. I literally now own a $700 brick. And OnePlus the company should be ashamed of themselves. I am fighting to get this phone running. And customer support has gone 100% silent on me. My last call, I got the perpetu-hold by the agent and I hung up after about 30 minutes of waiting for her to "consult a coworker". It's been so bad that I am trying to social shame them. I have a youtube post titled "Why my OnePlus 6T sucks and OnePlus Support is awful". I would link it, but I'm too new on the forum.
It's why I'm now on this forum trying anything I can to get this phone working.
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Well... Why did it stop working?
I have shifted from my iPhone 6s to Oneplus 6t. The main reason for the shift to Oneplus specifically in Andorid is the gestures it offers - switching apps, closing apps etc
After 1 month of usage, I believe Oneplus is the phone, if you want to get things done. Its fast, its battery is amazing. The reason why some people get annoyed is because its just too fast and for this reason it doesn't seem fluid. But trust me, using the iphone for years, I did enjoy the fluidic experience, however, I don't like it anymore and prefer speed, performance and battery life and Oneplus delivers on all these aspects. The teardrop notch and in screen fingerprint make the experience even better

Upgrade P2XL to P5....Pointless?

Just saw the specs of P5....Poor resolution upgrade!
I guess it's pointless and waste of money....what are your thoughts?
Since our security updates will end this month, I plan to upgrade for those and take advantage of the strong T-Mobile 5G signal in my area.
amandeepparmar said:
Just saw the specs of P5....Poor resolution upgrade!
I guess it's pointless and waste of money....what are your thoughts?
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My thoughts?
If you only now just saw the specs you haven't been following the news. You likely also do not understand why Google didn't go with the 865/865+ in the two devices.
For me, it boils down to which features I consider more important. Right now I'm leaning towards the P5 simply because of the aluminum body, but the 4A 5G and its headphone jack is compelling. I think in the end, it's going to boil down to "do I want to pay the extra $200 or not?"
Accidently deleted while attempting to quote.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
Coming from the 2XL... The 5 is an upgrade. As far as the ppi... https://www.androidauthority.com/chasing-pixels-810926/ this article from AA is very good and I'm sure I won't notice it much. But I am going to wait for reviews and actually see it side by side
In case you missed topjohnwu's tweets:
https://twitter.com/topjohnwu/status/1311370798267990016
Ive never been one of the sheeple, the people who buy into aspirational technology (people who aspire to own somehting because its new and everyone else has one), so its not even a decision for me. Im a fucntional user, if a device performs the functions i need it to, im happy. The only reason i ever upgrade devices is when one is dead, or very much close to being....
I do not get the "new device every 6 months" buyers...i just dont, i think thats insanity
Personally i look at the lines of sheeple at Apple Stores on every release and weep for humanity, and the planet which gets raped to bring people ovepriced (thanks to Apple - they are the root of all evil, not least because they overprice their products, thereby forcing everyone in the market to follow suit, because to do anythign less is to be seen as inferior, so blame Apple, i do, asshat comapny) devices they dont really need
Pretty much the forumula is: new phone = new camera that takes pictures of an even more distant galaxy, hmm very useful in every day life
Some people in some countries have way too much spare money if theyre buying new phones all the time
Im sticking with what works for me, not a corporations bottom line, thanks
Also this:
https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-4a-5g-pixel-5-great-value-in-us/
I loved the Pixel 5. I think Google made a small decision to stick with full hd resolution simply because you don't notice as such if the panel is good. It's easy on the battery. It will be easy on the chipset and provide consistent performance.
Pixel 5 does not lack anything as such. The only thing i was a bit disappointed was ufs 2.1 storage. Other than that I'm loving the Pixel 5. I'll get it maybe this Christmas or so!
The more I think about it, the more the 4a5g is looking like the better deal. Only differences between it and the five are two less gigabytes of RAM, no 90hz refresh, and a smaller battery, but the battery is still bigger than the 2xl, so battery life should still be an improvement. I've not yet owned a phone that had a 90hz refresh rate, so that's not really a huge deal to me yet.
The big draw toward the 4a5g for me personally is that the screen is bigger, which would make it feel like more of an upgrade compared to the 2XL.
The materials used are also different, but I've never really been a huge fan of glass backs. Plastic was always all right with me, so the 4a5g won't bother me in that regard. It supposedly feels pretty good in the hand even though its materials are "lesser than” the materials used for the 5 back.
Forgot about wireless charging too, but personally I've never owned a phone that had wireless charging, so again, not a big deal for me yet.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
sharkie405 said:
The more I think about it, the more the 4a5g is looking like the better deal. Only differences between it and the five are two less gigabytes of RAM, no 90hz refresh, and a smaller battery, but the battery is still bigger than the 2xl, so battery life should still be an improvement. I've not yet owned a phone that had a 90hz refresh rate, so that's not really a huge deal to me yet.
The big draw toward the 4a5g for me personally is that the screen is bigger, which would make it feel like more of an upgrade compared to the 2XL.
The materials used are also different, but I've never really been a huge fan of glass backs. Plastic was always all right with me, so the 4a5g won't bother me in that regard. It supposedly feels pretty good in the hand even though its materials are "lesser than” the materials used for the 5 back.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
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I second your thoughts here. 4a5 is certainly a better handset and not much hard hitting on the pocket too!
So far with lack of reviews and having seen a few of the random videos we can get. The OnePlus 8 Pro is looking better to me. Really need to see some full reviews
ZombieUsr said:
So far with lack of reviews and having seen a few of the random videos we can get. The OnePlus 8 Pro is looking better to me. Really need to see some full reviews
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I kind of agree with you here, except that I am seriously looking at going the OnePlus 8T route.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
ZombieUsr said:
So far with lack of reviews and having seen a few of the random videos we can get. The OnePlus 8 Pro is looking better to me. Really need to see some full reviews
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sharkie405 said:
I kind of agree with you here, except that I am seriously looking at going the OnePlus 8T route.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using XDA Labs
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I am changing my mind to OnePlus 8 Pro too, I can go to swappa.com and get for less price than P5 with taxes. I am seriously considering going back to iPhone. Google has been using the same camera sensor hardware since the Pixel 2 came out. That means if Google ported the sofware algorithms to the Pixel 2 it would take pictures the same if not damn close to being the same.
after being a 4 year pixel 2 xl owner... the pixel 5 feels like a natural successor. Jut my opinion though
i currently use a pixel 3 because i prefer the size but im pretty much done with the pixel series. the cost is far too high and the features are less and less. the 4 had no fingerprint reader..... so i was thinking of getting a Zenfone 7. great size, great amount of ram........ EXPANDABLE STORAGE!!! but after seeing the OnePlus Nord N10, i might change my mind. ill have to see after the first reviews but it has what i want/need in a phone. google is just too obsessed with trying to either win the apple crowd, or become like apple.
maybe if they ever add features like expandable storage ill buy another pixel but the odds of that happening are not good. knowing google, theyll probably give up on the pixel line after the pixel 7 so i plan on holding on to my Panda Pixel indefinitely.
Okay i changed my decision probably.
I don't think i'll be getting Pixel 5 solely because of outdated hardware. Only if they had upgraded the camera sensors i'd have gone for it. The current sensor is at the end of its life.
I can't decide if I want to get a OP8T, OP8 Pro, or Pixel 5.
I prefer the flat screen of the 5 and 8t, the rear fingerprint sensor on the 5, and the telephoto on the 8 pro.
Get rid of P2-XL?
amandeepparmar said:
Just saw the specs of P5....Poor resolution upgrade!
I guess it's pointless and waste of money....what are your thoughts?
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Depends on your battery. After October, no more OTA's from Google.
If your battery is good, between updates from Google Play Store and LineageOS, I think the phone
would be plenty secure. I plan to keep using mine for awhile. running LineageOS
YoshiFan501 said:
I can't decide if I want to get a OP8T, OP8 Pro, or Pixel 5.
I prefer the flat screen of the 5 and 8t, the rear fingerprint sensor on the 5, and the telephoto on the 8 pro.
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lol Flat screen is such a bliss. My next phone will be a flat screen. I am tired of this curved look and miss touches due to the curve
I went from. The p2xl to the 5, it's definitely an upgrade for me. I love how smooth it feels with the extra ram and 90hs screen, the SD765g has no trouble giving me a great experience on the couple games I do play, (pubg and genshin impact) the battery life for me is about double what the 2xl was and I'm happy to know I'll be getting monthly security updates for the next three years. There are still a couple things I don't like. The top behind the screen speaker is just so-so, far inferior to the 2xl's stereo front firing speakers. However I don't watch or listen to much without headphones or a bt speaker anyways and it does fine for calls. they removed a feature I did actually like.. active edge, I miss sweezing to activate assistant rather than saying hey Google or swiping the corner but still not really a deal breaker for me just so thing to get used to.
Sent from my Pixel 5 using Tapatalk

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