Essential PH-1 vs Pixel 2 XL Need Help - Essential Phone Questions & Answers

I need to get a new phone. My current Nexus 6 can barley keep a charge and is very sluggish. I have a chance to get a PH-1 for $280 outright or $240 for sprint version vs getting a Pixel 2 XL for $600. Basically the pixel is more than double the price. I am on Verizon and don;t have many other options for phones that can be easily rooted and bootloader unlocked. I have been reading this forum and most everyone likes their PH-1 except the camera. Is the Camera that bad? How much better is it now with newer software? Google Camera port? Is their anything that would steer me clear from this phone? Money is tight and I really can't afford to spend that much more money if I don't to. Saying that I don't want to buy the PH-1 and hating it only to spend more money to get something else. As for the Sprint version of the phone, I have read it takes only 2 files to unlock it then I read you can't, which on is it? Should I spend the extra $40 to get the non-sprint version?
I know I asked many questions and all your help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
BB

The camera is a non issue as most of us use the Google Camera port as our Camera app, so you'll get great IQ from your PH-1 essentially using a port of the Pixel 2 camera app on yr PH-1 see here https://www.celsoazevedo.com/files/android/google-camera/
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

A big factor is size. I came from the OG pixel (non xl) and I have fallen in love with the size of this phone. The pixel 2 xl I hear is a little tall. It's about as tall as the the nexus 6 actually. However for 280 I can't think of a better deal.. I got mine for 350 and it is a hell of a lot of phone for the price. Just use the Google camera port for sure though

Bad Bimr said:
I need to get a new phone. My current Nexus 6 can barley keep a charge and is very sluggish. I have a chance to get a PH-1 for $280 outright or $240 for sprint version vs getting a Pixel 2 XL for $600. Basically the pixel is more than double the price. I am on Verizon and don;t have many other options for phones that can be easily rooted and bootloader unlocked. I have been reading this forum and most everyone likes their PH-1 except the camera. Is the Camera that bad? How much better is it now with newer software? Google Camera port? Is their anything that would steer me clear from this phone? Money is tight and I really can't afford to spend that much more money if I don't to. Saying that I don't want to buy the PH-1 and hating it only to spend more money to get something else. As for the Sprint version of the phone, I have read it takes only 2 files to unlock it then I read you can't, which on is it? Should I spend the extra $40 to get the non-sprint version?
I know I asked many questions and all your help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
BB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on Verizon and the phone works great.
I don't have any real complaints about the camera and the ability to have a 360 camera is great.
People seem to want DSLR quality from a smart phone. I don't I expect smartphone/point and shoot quality and it meets that.
Is is better than the iPhoneX? I don't know.
Is it better than the Nexus 6P that I had previously? Yep.
I keep a mirrorless APS-C camera in the car. So for me, the phone is a last resort for pics.

Sorry OP, may I borrow your post and make a question too?
I have a Mate 10 Pro, I had the chance to use the Essential Phone for one day.
I know that we can't judge anything with one day but... The Essential Phone felt a little lagging compared to my Mate 10 Pro. One note I have to say is that the Essential was on 8.0.0 (I guess) and not the latest 8.1 update.
So I ask: Isn't the Essential Phone a little slow compared to the others flagships? The camera is a good example to say.
(And I've heard that the Pixel 2 (XL) is one of the fastest smartphone period.)
Sorry again, OP.

Speaking on performance. I have read that the OS is jiggery not smooth. Any comments on that?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

Bad Bimr said:
Speaking on performance. I have read that the OS is jiggery not smooth. Any comments on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not on 8.1. I just came to this from a Nexus 6, and I've run everything on that, including more than half of the 8.1 ports and for me there's no comparison, this device is a much snappier experience.

If having the bootloader unlocked and rooting is important to you what about ROM or kernel development? There is almost no development for the Essential. After a year on the market only two custom ROMs that I know of officially support this phone--AOSP and Carbon. Yes, you can unlock the bootloader but the development community is almost non-existent.

Twrp is weird on this phone, you cant install it permanently. You'll need to always be near a computer if you want to install anything. Screen has lackluster touch response, smoothness is hit or miss with the jitteriness. Edge detection could be improved. Don't have a pixel but I'd recommend it over the essential.

Cryosx said:
Twrp is weird on this phone, you cant install it permanently. You'll need to always be near a computer if you want to install anything. Screen has lackluster touch response, smoothness is hit or miss with the jitteriness. Edge detection could be improved. Don't have a pixel but I'd recommend it over the essential.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TWRP is not weird on this phone.
The boot holds the recovery also.
This just means that the custom recovery must be integrated into boot image.
The phone has to complete boot/os setups. The makes sure that you can always recover and you can update the OS white the phone is running.
As far as jitter. A fix is in the developer options in 8.1.
I don't have any touch response issues and the overall device is much better than a Pixel (IMHO).

Cryosx said:
Twrp is weird on this phone, you cant install it permanently. You'll need to always be near a computer if you want to install anything. Screen has lackluster touch response, smoothness is hit or miss with the jitteriness. Edge detection could be improved. Don't have a pixel but I'd recommend it over the essential.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And how much did you spend?

Bad Bimr said:
I need to get a new phone. My current Nexus 6 can barley keep a charge and is very sluggish. I have a chance to get a PH-1 for $280 outright or $240 for sprint version vs getting a Pixel 2 XL for $600. Basically the pixel is more than double the price. I am on Verizon and don;t have many other options for phones that can be easily rooted and bootloader unlocked. I have been reading this forum and most everyone likes their PH-1 except the camera. Is the Camera that bad? How much better is it now with newer software? Google Camera port? Is their anything that would steer me clear from this phone? Money is tight and I really can't afford to spend that much more money if I don't to. Saying that I don't want to buy the PH-1 and hating it only to spend more money to get something else. As for the Sprint version of the phone, I have read it takes only 2 files to unlock it then I read you can't, which on is it? Should I spend the extra $40 to get the non-sprint version?
I know I asked many questions and all your help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
BB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been using PH-1 for a while now and with the official Oreo update and camera port I can recommend this phone. I have an iPhone X also and don't really like it as a "Daily Driver", too use to Android and all it can do over iOS, PH-1 camera is up to par with the iPhone's camera as well. Battery life is the same as the iPhones and no complaints on the UI jitters or signal strength. It's a good phone overall!:good:

garywojdan81 said:
And how much did you spend?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
400 for it
---------- Post added at 12:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:00 PM ----------
tech_head said:
TWRP is not weird on this phone.
The boot holds the recovery also.
This just means that the custom recovery must be integrated into boot image.
The phone has to complete boot/os setups. The makes sure that you can always recover and you can update the OS white the phone is running.
As far as jitter. A fix is in the developer options in 8.1.
I don't have any touch response issues and the overall device is much better than a Pixel (IMHO).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, tried the magisc fix. Phone isn't smooth. Trying to scroll with one hand and having the momentum break cause my hand is slightly touching the screen is annoying AF, like i'm scrolling and it randomly bounces the other way annoying. Scrolling through sites/apps just doesn't feel as good compared to my U11.

Just installed the P preview and the phone feels way better than oreo we'll see how it goes.

Cryosx said:
Just installed the P preview and the phone feels way better than oreo we'll see how it goes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
P isn't ready for prime time. I hope it works for you though.
I'll wait.

tech_head said:
TWRP is not weird on this phone.
The boot holds the recovery also.
This just means that the custom recovery must be integrated into boot image.
The phone has to complete boot/os setups. The makes sure that you can always recover and you can update the OS white the phone is running.
As far as jitter. A fix is in the developer options in 8.1.
I don't have any touch response issues and the overall device is much better than a Pixel (IMHO).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is the fix for jitter in developer options that you are referring to?

jhs39 said:
What is the fix for jitter in developer options that you are referring to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Touch sensitivity in developer options. I have mine set at 8.

tech_head said:
P isn't ready for prime time. I hope it works for you though.
I'll wait.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't had any issues at all

A_Pac1 said:
I have been using PH-1 for a while now and with the official Oreo update and camera port I can recommend this phone. I have an iPhone X also and don't really like it as a "Daily Driver", too use to Android and all it can do over iOS, PH-1 camera is up to par with the iPhone's camera as well. Battery life is the same as the iPhones and no complaints on the UI jitters or signal strength. It's a good phone overall!:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which camera port are you using, if you mind my asking? Looking at the link, I'm assuming the best one is:
Arnova's v7beta9: GoogleCamera-Pixel2Mod-Arnova8G2-V7beta-test-9.apk (Arnova8G2, 2018-03-25, no config needed, suggested settings, changelog)
Just got a PH-1 last night and want to fully set it up and use it for a few days before selling my S8.
Thanks

coop3422 said:
Which camera port are you using, if you mind my asking? Looking at the link, I'm assuming the best one is:
Arnova's v7beta9: GoogleCamera-Pixel2Mod-Arnova8G2-V7beta-test-9.apk (Arnova8G2, 2018-03-25, no config needed, suggested settings, changelog)
Just got a PH-1 last night and want to fully set it up and use it for a few days before selling my S8.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes sir, that's the one! Motion pictures, HDR+, Portrait all working perfect!!:good:

Related

Anyone moved from oneplus 5 your thoughts please.

So I tried the oneplus 5 yesterday and low and behold the jello effect drove me totally nuts. I just couldn't live with it and had to take it back. Just wanted to findout from those who have come from or are considering going to oneplus 5, what are your thoughts around the htc u11. The reason I ask is that it seems the oneplus 5 is currently the best in terms of performance one you take away the jello effect. So your thoughts will be appreciated.
I'm actually very curious on this too. As I'm getting bored with my V20 and I'm debating between the Oneplus and U11. If anyone has it on T-Mobile I'm curious on its performance with them too.
marvi0 said:
So I tried the oneplus 5 yesterday and low and behold the jello effect drove me totally nuts. I just couldn't live with it and had to take it back. Just wanted to findout from those who have come from or are considering going to oneplus 5, what are your thoughts around the htc u11. The reason I ask is that it seems the oneplus 5 is currently the best in terms of performance one you take away the jello effect. So your thoughts will be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't own OP5, but have U11 which is absolutely wonderful device - you got nothing to worry about performance wise, and in some cases will outperform :good:
I came from an OP5 and to me the devices felt like a night and day difference. The U11 has a much more premium build and feel compared to the OP5 and is far superior in terms of camera, water/dust resistance, hi-fi audio, expandable storage and excellent Sense development (Viper, Leedroid, etc.). In my case it felt very much like a "you get what you pay for" situation. If you're willing to shell out a few more bucks the U11 is all around a better device.
I spent only a few days w/ the OP5 before returning it. I had a weird Wifi hotspot issue w/ it that I couldn't keep it. For the short time I had it, I like the build. But I was not impressed w/ the camera nor the battery life. U11 camera is very good, and the squeeze feature is NOT a gimmick to me, it's the quickest way to launch camera.
Thanks for the input, folks. I was briefly thinking about the OP5 just because of the lower price (money is tight at the moment) but I have a 128GB version on pre-order (money's tight, but it's worth $80 for the uptick in RAM and storage). I'm 99% sure I'm making the right choice, but it's good to get confirmation.
Best phone that I have ever had. Squeeze feature is a game changer (truly...). Smooth, stutter-free scrolling everywhere you look.
wynand32 said:
Thanks for the input, folks. I was briefly thinking about the OP5 just because of the lower price (money is tight at the moment) but I have a 128GB version on pre-order (money's tight, but it's worth $80 for the uptick in RAM and storage). I'm 99% sure I'm making the right choice, but it's good to get confirmation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You won't regret it. I've had mine since the 8th of June and I can say without a doubt it's the best device I've ever had the pleasure of owning and I've owned plenty (just look at my signature :laugh. The only thing that has me irked about it is HTC pulled S-OFF. It reverts to S-ON when it reboots which is going to be problematic when it comes to getting it out to end users and it also means that once you unlock the bootloader, you cannot restore it to factory "locked" - you will have to deal with the relocked tag and the voided warranty.
wynand32 said:
Thanks for the input, folks. I was briefly thinking about the OP5 just because of the lower price (money is tight at the moment) but I have a 128GB version on pre-order (money's tight, but it's worth $80 for the uptick in RAM and storage). I'm 99% sure I'm making the right choice, but it's good to get confirmation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually tried 2 oneplus 5 phones and they tried to convince me that the jello effect wasn't there, and quite frankly for me that was it. They literally tried to convince me that something which was clearly a hardware issue was a feature!. I opened a thread on the oneplus net about it and it vanished because they can't stand the truth. The only thing the phone had was speed , but obviously they had to cut corners to enable that. I think when they do realise that people want quality not just 8gig of ram then I will go back to them.
I've got a Oneplus5 and a U11. Frankly, i used the Oneplus5 for about 2 weeks and then 4.5.5 came out and screwed Android Auto in the wife's car. It works in mine but not in hers. She was going to use the Oneplus5 to ease back into Android after 4 years of iOS and now the Oneplus5 sits powered off until I get the time to figure out why AA doesn't work in her car but does in mine. It's utterly frustrating.
As far as the U11 .. it works flawlessly with anything I throw at it. It's fast, gets great compliments on it's appearance and I have absolutely nothing bad to say about it at all. Almost wish I'd bought 2 so the wife could use one. hmm. Live and learn I guess.
I have U11 on the way, but after using op3t I'll surely miss the alert slider.
But op5 has jello and no OIS and that just doesn't cut it.
gunnerhk said:
I have U11 on the way, but after using op3t I'll surely miss the alert slider.
But op5 has jello and no OIS and that just doesn't cut it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use Audio Profiles for this and have for quite a few of my Android phones. It works well and has quite a few options. It works well on the U11. It's not a hardware slider but we can't have everything.

Returned my Pixel 2 for this phone, am i crazy?

I returned my Pixel 2 for the essential phone specially for that $499 price tag and to my surprise I don't miss the pixel 2. The only thing I miss is 8.0 but I have faith that 8.0 is coming to this phone soon. For those of you who haven't played with 8.0 yet trust me... It's nice!
mackentosh said:
I returned my Pixel 2 for the essential phone specially for that $499 price tag and to my surprise I don't miss the pixel 2. The only thing I miss is 8.0 but I have faith that 8.0 is coming to this phone soon. For those of you who haven't played with 8.0 yet trust me... It's nice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the the Pixel 2 and the PH-1 right now for that reason, I have been bugging Andy Rubin and Essential on Twitter to update to 8.0. When the PH-1 gets 8.0 it will be the best device out in my opinion.
DanDroidOS said:
I have the the Pixel 2 and the PH-1 right now for that reason, I have been bugging Andy Rubin and Essential on Twitter to update to 8.0. When the PH-1 gets 8.0 it will be the best device out in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your not crazy.
Honestly, the camera just stinks. Its gonna take Essential to really work on firmware and software to solve it. Yes, you can use the Google Camera Mod/Port, but that comes with its own set of headaches and it not perfect.
I would like Oreo and them to really show us they can take the LG G6 camera hardware and make them work like the LG G6 cameras.
If they can do that, I think it will show the industry that they mean business. If they just let it slide till Essential Phone 2, and don't show that they can deliver software and firmware, it will really show just how shallow and normal their company really is. Meaning, oh well... let them just buy our new one because its better for our bottom line.
I am REALLY in hopes that they want to prove and show that they are above the other trolling companies that just shovel out new devices. That would set them apart from the pack of the massive flood of phones by a sea of Android OEM's.
Show us your better than the norm Essential.
mackentosh said:
I returned my Pixel 2 for the essential phone specially for that $499 price tag and to my surprise I don't miss the pixel 2. The only thing I miss is 8.0 but I have faith that 8.0 is coming to this phone soon. For those of you who haven't played with 8.0 yet trust me... It's nice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is going to sting a bit.
Price just dropped further down to $449 at BestBuy.
http://bit.ly/2y4iQfp
LordLugard said:
This is going to sting a bit.
Price just dropped further down to $449 at BestBuy.
http://bit.ly/2y4iQfp
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Pixel 2 prices should've been lower, after having the phone for 8 days I realised that it's not worth 8 and $900+. No wireless charging, no head phone jack and the build quality is sub par. The squeeze feature is useless and you can't remap it. 8.0 is the only thing that sets the pixel apart for now
mackentosh said:
The Pixel 2 prices should've been lower, after having the phone for 8 days I realised that it's not worth 8 and $900+. No wireless charging, no head phone jack and the build quality is sub par. The squeeze feature is useless and you can't remap it. 8.0 is the only thing that sets the pixel apart for now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pixel 2 128gb is only $750. And you can remap the squeeze function easily with Flar2's button remapper and a simple ADB command.
Also, I can't agree with you about 8.0 being the only thing that sets it apart as the camera is arguably the best on the market right now.
xocomaox said:
Pixel 2 128gb is only $750. And you can remap the squeeze function easily with Flar2's button remapper and a simple ADB command.
Also, I can't agree with you about 8.0 being the only thing that sets it apart as the camera is arguably the best on the market right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, but the 2 is ugly with those huge bezels, and the way too expensive 2 XL is looking too buggy.
spotmark said:
Yeah, but the 2 is ugly with those huge bezels, and the way too expensive 2 XL is looking too buggy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, true those bezels kinda suck. The 2 XL just had screen quality issues. I returned mine.
Ok cool I'm glad I'm not the only who made the switch
I hardly ever take pictures, so the pixel 2 has nothing I want.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Its not easy to justify the price of the pixel but you do get a few things the essential phone doesnt have: IP67, stereo speakers, much faster updates, and an incredible camera. Is it worth it? Idk
I have my ph-1 coming today. I'm rocking a pixel 2 XL 128. I wouldn't even consider the smaller pixel for the dinky screen so I think the bigger pixel is more comparable. These 2 phones, both at 128gb are $529 difference out the door. Camera , waterproofing and speakers are advantages over the ph-1. I just don't think it's worth over five hundred bucks. Plus the screen is not the highest quality and I haven't heard anyone say this but the pixel fingerprint sensor is not the best. If you have the slightest moisture on your finger ,even sweat, it won't register. I just feel like at a grand, a phone better be near perfect. The only deal breaker to me would be if the ph-1 has connectivity issues. I'm also really into a smoother software experience which is unmatched by the pixel line it sounds. I DO kind of like the underdog company who seems willing to listen and try to make consistent updates to improve things. I think I'll be content knowing tthat those updates are coming and it gives you hope and something to look forward to... especially Oreo. Looking at that beautiful screen while waiting may very well be worth it!

From Pixel 2 XL to Essential

I couldn't justify almost a $1000 tied up into a phone anymore and I seen Essential seems to be cleaning up its mess. Found one locally for $240 and picked it up. So far I cant get over how small the device is. Looks and feels amazing. Im currently loading Oreo beta. Hopefully it leaves me with a good experience.
joeyac02 said:
I couldn't justify almost a $1000 tied up into a phone anymore and I seen Essential seems to be cleaning up its mess. Found one locally for $240 and picked it up. So far I cant get over how small the device is. Looks and feels amazing. Im currently loading Oreo beta. Hopefully it leaves me with a good experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
240...for a phone with 128 gb of storage was a steal in my opinion. These phones have suffered from devaluation with the Sprint offering. This is a heckuva device .
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
cfclay said:
240...for a phone with 128 gb of storage was a steal in my opinion. These phones have suffered from devaluation with the Sprint offering. This is a heckuva device .
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea so far it honestly seems on par with my Pixel. Are you rooted or anything?
joeyac02 said:
Yea so far its honestly seems on par with my Pixel. Are you rooted or anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used to root, but last time I did it causes problems with DirecTV and my banking apps. So no [emoji848]
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
cfclay said:
I used to root, but last time I did it causes problems with DirecTV and my banking apps. So no [emoji848]
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root with Magisk hides all traces.
Even Android Pay works.
I don't have any trouble with any app with an unlocked BL and rooted with Magisk.
Whoa $240 that's a steal. I came from an HTC u11 and I'm loving how this screen is larger but the phone is smaller.
tech_head said:
Root with Magisk hides all traces.
Even Android Pay works.
I don't have any trouble with any app with an unlocked BL and rooted with Magisk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll give it a try then. No other security risks these days? The only thing I remember enjoying about rooting was Xposed framework for multiwindow.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
cfclay said:
I'll give it a try then. No other security risks these days? The only thing I remember enjoying about rooting was Xposed framework for multiwindow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well there are risks if you grant everything root permission
Other than being careful, no issues.
Yeah I've rooted with Magisk with 3 different phone now and never had safety net issues! Magisk has been a lifesaver to the rooting community.
Toyeboy said:
Yeah I've rooted with Magisk with 3 different phone now and never had safety net issues! Magisk has been a lifesaver to the rooting community.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Couldn't agree more love it!
Toyeboy said:
Yeah I've rooted with Magisk with 3 different phone now and never had safety net issues! Magisk has been a lifesaver to the rooting community.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly +1
which carrier do you use? How is its reception?
cfclay said:
240...for a phone with 128 gb of storage was a steal in my opinion. These phones have suffered from devaluation with the Sprint offering. This is a heckuva device .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just got mine for $200 ??
I picked up a mint white one last night for $300 CAD. I don't love my S8 and am hoping the smaller Pixel 3 gets the small bezel treatment. Thought I'd sell my S8 now while it has the most value.
Got the PH-1 last night, finished setting it up this morning and ordered a case, and a QI wireless charger sticker thing off Amazon to try. Gonna really miss wireless charging so I hope the adapter works. If not, I'll return it. Not sure if I'll keep the PH-1 or not yet, as I also will really miss the always on display. That was something I also disliked on my old Pixel XL.
coop3422 said:
I picked up a mint white one last night for $300 CAD. I don't love my S8 and am hoping the smaller Pixel 3 gets the small bezel treatment. Thought I'd sell my S8 now while it has the most value.
Got the PH-1 last night, finished setting it up this morning and ordered a case, and a QI wireless charger sticker thing off Amazon to try. Gonna really miss wireless charging so I hope the adapter works. If not, I'll return it. Not sure if I'll keep the PH-1 or not yet, as I also will really miss the always on display. That was something I also disliked on my old Pixel XL.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mind sharing that link to the qi charger sticker?
I've been all over the S9 plus, and finally got to play around with one. All I can say is, other than the screen being all pretty, it's way too locked down and lacking on features where it counts. Essential + Resurrection Remix wipes the floors with Samsung's half baked TouchWiz features. That phone felt a bit slower that the PH-1. Given the specs, on paper you'd think it would outperform the Essential, but it just doesn't, I set both phones' animation scales to 0.5x, and S9+ just didn't feel as snappy, guess TouchWiz is still a heavy UI. I'm not knocking Samsung devices, but they can at least stop pretending to be an apple wannabe and reenable the OEM unlock switch.
Syndrome666 said:
Mind sharing that link to the qi charger sticker?
I've been all over the S9 plus, and finally got to play around with one. All I can say is, other than the screen being all pretty, it's way too locked down and lacking on features where it counts. Essential + Resurrection Remix wipes the floors with Samsung's half baked TouchWiz features. That phone felt a bit slower that the PH-1. Given the specs, on paper you'd think it would outperform the Essential, but it just doesn't, I set both phones' animation scales to 0.5x, and S9+ just didn't feel as snappy, guess TouchWiz is still a heavy UI. I'm not knocking Samsung devices, but they can at least stop pretending to be an apple wannabe and reenable the OEM unlock switch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My s8 definitely felt just as fast, touchwiz is much lighter these days, but the lack of any roms or bootloader unlocking killed it for me. Overall I loved the phone.
The major reason for the bootloader lock is the whole knox thing, they are doing well in the corporate sector these days.
crixley said:
My s8 definitely felt just as fast, touchwiz is much lighter these days, but the lack of any roms or bootloader unlocking killed it for me. Overall I loved the phone.
The major reason for the bootloader lock is the whole knox thing, they are doing well in the corporate sector these days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not familiar with how Knox works, never owned a Samsung phone, but can't you just flash through fastboot and custom recovery rather than Odin? Or are Samsung devices different from other Android devices?
In any case, I suspect the reason for the s9+feeling a bit slower than essential, may be the screen size. I remember Nexus 6 feeling a bit slower in animations department over Nexus 5 despite Nexus 5 being the less powerful of the two.
Syndrome666 said:
I'm not familiar with how Knox works, never owned a Samsung phone, but can't you just flash through fastboot and custom recovery rather than Odin? Or are Samsung devices different from other Android devices?
In any case, I suspect the reason for the s9+feeling a bit slower than essential, may be the screen size. I remember Nexus 6 feeling a bit slower in animations department over Nexus 5 despite Nexus 5 being the less powerful of the two.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They don't have any fastboot, it is its own strange beast. You need to use odin. They managed to get root on it, but there wasn't a whole lot otherwise. The eynos versions you can fully unlock, but in US and Canada all we have are the qualcomm ones.
For me the s8 was super fast, and the camera is seriously magnificent, but I get so bored without root (you need to do some serious stuff to gain it, risk bricking it and your battery life from that point onward will only ever charge to 80%, even if you flash back to stock) and knew that after the oreo update I'd never see another update again.
I'm not sure what made me decide to trade, I got an offer for an essential phone plus cash and jumped on it. At first I regretted it, but once I flashed RR I began to love the phone.
I'm on P beta now, and knowing that I'll be up to date for a long time makes it all worthwhile. I can deal with this phones minor "quirks". I miss a couple things about the s8, but I'd still completely happy with this phone.
crixley said:
They don't have any fastboot, it is its own strange beast. You need to use odin. They managed to get root on it, but there wasn't a whole lot otherwise. The eynos versions you can fully unlock, but in US and Canada all we have are the qualcomm ones.
For me the s8 was super fast, and the camera is seriously magnificent, but I get so bored without root (you need to do some serious stuff to gain it, risk bricking it and your battery life from that point onward will only ever charge to 80%, even if you flash back to stock) and knew that after the oreo update I'd never see another update again.
I'm not sure what made me decide to trade, I got an offer for an essential phone plus cash and jumped on it. At first I regretted it, but once I flashed RR I began to love the phone.
I'm on P beta now, and knowing that I'll be up to date for a long time makes it all worthwhile. I can deal with this phones minor "quirks". I miss a couple things about the s8, but I'd still completely happy with this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed it is, never knew they didn't include a bootloader.
I actually dismissed the essential phone when it first came out as a phone with a gimmick to see how much bezel they can get rid off, but once I tried it out in person, I couldn't put it down. The thing really grew on me after handling it for a few minutes.
How's P beta? Is it stock essential firmware?
Syndrome666 said:
Indeed it is, never knew they didn't include a bootloader.
I actually dismissed the essential phone when it first came out as a phone with a gimmick to see how much bezel they can get rid off, but once I tried it out in person, I couldn't put it down. The thing really grew on me after handling it for a few minutes.
How's P beta? Is it stock essential firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the same thing, until I really played around with one in store. The design is stunning, it isn't often I'd say a phone is sexy hahaha
Yep the official essential P beta. It has been awesome honestly. Very smooth, and I have yet to encounter any serious bugs (the odd minor bug/quirk, but nothing that bothers me in any way). The gestures are strange for me having been on android since 2008, but I'm slowly getting the hang of things/getting used to it.
For a dev beta, it is very solid.

worth it?

OK considering getting a op6t later this week.
Overall is it good?
Currently I've a HTC u11 weird choice I know but the screen is mint.
With the lower res on the oneplus would you buy again after owning one?
arknailed7754 said:
OK considering getting a op6t later this week.
Overall is it good?
Currently I've a HTC u11 weird choice I know but the screen is mint.
With the lower res on the oneplus would you buy again after owning one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best phone I've owned.
I like the fact that it is dual SIM and works on Verizon.
OnePlus 7 is right around the corner. I'd wait for that if I were you.
arknailed7754 said:
OK considering getting a op6t later this week.
Overall is it good?
Currently I've a HTC u11 weird choice I know but the screen is mint.
With the lower res on the oneplus would you buy again after owning one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got this phone and it's the best phones I've had. I've only had all Galaxies but even with Ron's on my galaxy this phone is soooooo buttery smooth and very fast. It's basically everything I'd try to get my Samsung to be. This is a great choice but the OnePlus 7 is coming out soon so it's up to you.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
I've seen the standard op7 specs its not much different to be fair. Unless your going pro. Thanks for the responses. I'll get my op6t
Opinion
arknailed7754 said:
OK considering getting a op6t later this week.
Overall is it good?
Currently I've a HTC u11 weird choice I know but the screen is mint.
With the lower res on the oneplus would you buy again after owning one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, so, after going through many brands and various experiences these are my 2 cents on the 6T: :fingers-crossed:
Camera is very good, but there are better options if you're purely focusing on photography
The performance is absolutely magnificent. Dominates the charts.
The UI experience is one of the best. OxygenOS not only instigates a fully seamless and stock experience, it offers a wide range of personalization options and really helps the user experience.
It is a stable OS, updated consistently and unlikely to experience unprecedented hard resets and bootloops.
Connectivity is brilliant, apart from the Bluetooth. I have been having some trouble with the automatic connection to eg wireless headsets and the instance of remaining connected or switching between audio sources, also had some issues with connecting to other devices.
Screen is great, yet I feel they could've done better with the resolution, than just 1080p.
Other features like the notch and the fingerprint sensor are huge pluses and good conversation starters, as they not only make the device an actual beauty but are recent innovations.
The build quality is great. Sturdy, durable, slick.
Lack of a headphone jack is a bit asinine, but does not in anyway overweight the advantages. Would still like to see a jack on the upcoming 7.
Great price. Value for money.
The lack of a stereo speaker and poor placement not only makes it easier for one to cover it up accidentally but also makes for an okay audio experience, which is unsatisfactory by my standards.
I love my 6T, but would sell it in a minute and buy a 7, if the 7 brings back a notification LED.
I got the OP6T McLaren edition in January and it has been a fun device. I agree with everything others said above.
For lack of notification LED light, there are a few apps you can use that work very well. And for the lack of stereo speakers, there is a magisk module that turns the earpiece into a second speaker which works well. :good:
I bought one because it seemed like the best value locally. My wife bought at the same time one of those $1400 apple doo hicky things after playing with my phone for 37 minutes she made me return her fancy designed in California apple and buy her a one plus 6t.
Well I got it. Brilliant phone
Frankenscript said:
I love my 6T, but would sell it in a minute and buy a 7, if the 7 brings back a notification LED.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol anything that has been removed during the span of 6 and 6T will not ever return. Led is going away in almost every smartphone coming out this year even Samsung removed it in the s10 and it's all to make more screen and OnePlus will follow that trend just like with the notch...... And they're definitely not bringing back headphone jack.... Both 7 and 7 pro are going to be using an optical in display demerit similar to the one used in the 6T... Maybe the pro will have something better since it's the pro though (ultrasonic?) Maybe but I don't think so.....
This is the first device in a long time I'm not overly bothered about rooting. Very odd
arknailed7754 said:
This is the first device in a long time I'm not overly bothered about rooting. Very odd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly. Everyone says to root it an get more, but in reality, unless you use a lot of magsik moduels then there is no reason to. Only thing g I did was turn my TMobile variant into an international one.
I only use root to block ads but there are solutions for that these days. Root is also use full to get rid of gapps.
fogame said:
Exactly. Everyone says to root it an get more, but in reality, unless you use a lot of magsik moduels then there is no reason to. Only thing g I did was turn my TMobile variant into an international one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I switched mine to international. Rooted with magisk to block ads, enable dual speaker, also used swift installer to completely black out everything so I conserve battery. Viper 4 android. Installed TWRP as well. I agree though I was very impressed with everything stock. I've always had Samsung phones and this was everything I'd try to get my Samsung to be.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Weirdly I did root but literally for the kernel. I'll not be changing the ROM..probably ever on this. Oxygen is sweet
arknailed7754 said:
This is the first device in a long time I'm not overly bothered about rooting. Very odd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here

Thinking of coming to the OnePlus family. Need some thoughts.

Ok so ive always been a Nexus/Pixel guy, Had the Galaxy Nexus Nexus 5 Nexus 6P and Pixel 2 XL (current phone)
Mainly for fast updates
Always get new "Google" features first
Easy Root / Substratum
Buuuuuuut the Pixel 3, 3a Especially the 4, 4A were all a huge MEH and the 5 looks to be the biggest MEH ever.
So ive been looking at the OnePlus 8 Pro looking through the forums it reminds me of the Nexus days with ROMS and Kernals MODs etc.
A few questions though before i pull the trigger (still trying to come to grips with a $900 price tag for a OnePlus)
Ill probably try to use the phone without rooting but most likely end up rooting.
1. Netflix L1/L3 Widevine. Can someone give me a definitive answer as to if we can get HD with unlocked bootloaders. I am getting conflicting info going though the forum. Some posts say NO. Some say they got it working through certain root methods.. Some say they have it working running certain custom roms or custom kernals or Magisk moduals such as XXX No Limits. And them some say that after a certain OP official update that it now works.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-8-pro/help/bootloader-widevine-l1-t4092027
https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-8-pro/help/custom-rom-allow-hd-netflix-rooted-t4092093
2. Notification Light
All my Nexi/Pixels had a notification light and i used Light Manager to make them flash different colors and speeds depending on the app etc.
I know that the OP8 and most phones now a days dont have the light. But i see things like AODNotify do these apps work well? I dont really like AOD and always had it turned off on the pixel.
Any info is appreciated.
I sold my pixel 4xl for the OnePlus 8 Pro. Honestly, I regret it.
Even with gcam the camera doesn't come close. 8 should have waited for the pixel 5 ? I feel like the pixel phones are very simplistic, bit you get a very solid experience with them. I can't stand the curved edges of the op8pro and the camera is worse that what I had before, which kills me. If someone makes a pixel experience ROM I'll be happy but even then I won't be able to install my banks app due to root. The grass isn't always greener, friend.
meffles said:
I sold my pixel 4xl for the OnePlus 8 Pro. Honestly, I regret it.
Even with gcam the camera doesn't come close. 8 should have waited for the pixel 5 I feel like the pixel phones are very simplistic, bit you get a very solid experience with them. I can't stand the curved edges of the op8pro and the camera is worse that what I had before, which kills me. If someone makes a pixel experience ROM I'll be happy but even then I won't be able to install my banks app due to root. The grass isn't always greener, friend.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah the P4XL to me was a step backward. I NEED a finger print reader. Faceunlock is dumb. SOLI or w/e it was called was a huge let down. And it was really the only "new" feature of the phone.
I would normally get a Pixel 5 but sorry a Snapdragon 765G really? And it will still cost probably $800+
I ditched the 3XL for the 8Pro before the payoff date and I don't have regrets. Yeah, the camera was nice but I had other reasons.
I see PE has built a ROM for the Nord but not the 8/8Pro, maybe one is coming......
Sent from my IN2025 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 08:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:22 PM ----------
Oh. The curved edge was weird at first but I've adapted....
Sent from my IN2025 using Tapatalk
I had exactly the same thoughts like you, but I came from the Pixel 1.
I didn't regret it one second going to Oneplus 8 Pro!
The updates are quick and much more easy to flash then I used to. Indeed, the phone is larger, but I knew that when I bought it.
First I thought root wasn't necessary but I ended up rooting and, again, it's much easier to do then with the Pixel.
I don't use netflix L1/L3 widevine but there's a thread about it somewhere on this forum
Notification light: there are moreapps but I use aodNotify and it works like a charm. (I have 3% battery consumption over the night, several colors eso) But: that's my experience.
Conclusion: for me it was and still is a go.
I hope it helps you with your decision.
Have already given my thoughts about moving to OnePlus from any other phone from the past or even currently available.
In short, it's a resounding yes.
Nice im sooooooo close to pulling the trigger.
It looks like according to what i can find. That as of update 10.5.10 (i think it was) that with a unlocked bootloader and proper Magisk Hide that you can get L1. And that was my biggest concern.
Sure the camera isnt as good but i dont think i use it enough (or enough where i would really look at the quality of a pic) to worry THAT much. I mainly use it to send a pic via MMS or RCS when i see something interesting at the store and send it to a friend or family member lol.
And i think a Snapdragon 865 and a larger 120hz 1440p display and super fast storage/RAM will suit me better then not those things but a good camera (Pixel 5)
This badboy OnePlus 8 Pro is the sweetest ride... especially on XDA!
I have pulled the trigger and am looking forward to it.
I bought the IN2020 version and was wondering if I'll be missing anything that the global IN2023 has?
Any thoughts?
Sent From My P40 Pro
krolla03 said:
Nice im sooooooo close to pulling the trigger.
It looks like according to what i can find. That as of update 10.5.10 (i think it was) that with a unlocked bootloader and proper Magisk Hide that you can get L1. And that was my biggest concern.
Sure the camera isnt as good but i dont think i use it enough (or enough where i would really look at the quality of a pic) to worry THAT much. I mainly use it to send a pic via MMS or RCS when i see something interesting at the store and send it to a friend or family member lol.
And i think a Snapdragon 865 and a larger 120hz 1440p display and super fast storage/RAM will suit me better then not those things but a good camera (Pixel 5)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be concerned about this if you need bank apps etc .
https://www.androidpolice.com/2020/03/11/safetynet-improvements-kill-magisk-hide/
Daniel Hjelvik said:
You should be concerned about this if you need bank apps etc .
https://www.androidpolice.com/2020/03/11/safetynet-improvements-kill-magisk-hide/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root is always on the chopping block. The only thing i really use root for on my Pixel 2 XL anymore is to use Substratum
The op8T/Tpro is so close to coming out is it not worth waiting for that?
Pearzilla said:
The op8T/Tpro is so close to coming out is it not worth waiting for that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i might do this. Because then the OP8 Pro will be cheaper

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