Lumia 920, iPhone 5, Galaxy S III, or Galaxy Note 2: Reviews Round-up for Holiday Shopping
As a smartphone or phablet shopper, you have numerous choices in the market today. You can go 16GB or higher. You can have a smaller screen or go for mini tablet size. But what device should you choose?
Here is a round-up of reviews to help you make a decision just in time for the season of holiday shopping.
Nokia Lumia 920: For those who like Windows and camera phones.
Cnet says it is "the most powerful, feature-rich Windows phone available."
Gizmodo Australia has issues the weight of Lumia 920, but the site pointed out when it comes to taking photos, it is actually a good thing. 4.5-inch IPS screen, dual-core 1.5GHz processor, 1GM RAM
The Verge credits the latest Nokia Windows phone for its "gorgeous" screen. For camphone users, the site notes the Lumia 920's image stabilization and low light shooting capability work wonders.
Base Price: $99.99
Apple iPhone 5: For those who prefer the iOS environment. Also for users who appreciate sleek UI and design.
Cnet says the iPhone 5 is "absolutely the best iPhone to date." However, this won't mean anything to you if you are not comfortable with the iOS. It must be noted, however, that it doesn't take a genius to have a basic understanding of how iOS works.
Engadget confirms the iPhone 5 syncs faster than the iPhone 4S, but it is not sure if it's solely because of the Lightning connector. The improved hardware may also contribute to the improved speed.
The Verge says the iPhone camera is "absolutely stunning." You don't want to pay much for a camera phone anyway. You will only choose the iPhone 5 for its overall appeal and its usability according to your preferences.
Base Price: $199.99
Samsung Galaxy S III: For those who prefer the Android environment. Also for users who appreciate sleek UI and design.
Cnet says it is "an excellent, top-end phone." A lot of what the iPhone 5 boasts of, the Samsung Galaxy S III also carries. Most users will choose the S III for practical reasons, and/or the Android environment.
In its S III 4G review, Gizmodo Australia notes, "animations are smoother than ever, apps launch faster and general usability stands well above the original Galaxy S III."
Base Price: $99.99
Samsung Galaxy Note 2: For those who want a smartphone and a tablet in a single device.
Watching videos is more visually entertaining with phablet Note 2's 5.5 inch Super AMOLED HD display. What others enjoy in their tablets, users can get from a bigger smartphone. It is bigger, obviously, but its size allows it to accommodate a more powerful battery (3100mAh), too.
A phablet may be bulky, but it is definitely "smart" in terms of UI and features. It is awkward for phone calls, but it you frequently use headsets, this is not much of an issue.
Cnet says it is a "boundary-pushing device that gets a lot right."
Base Price: $299.99