The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 carries the legacy of the original Galaxy Note and Galaxy Note 2. The phone offers users a mobile handset that can also double as a mini tablet. The Galaxy Note 3 does not necessary appeal to all users. It does not have the generalized appeal of the Galaxy S4 of the chic nature of the iPhone 5s to make it a universal favorite. Nonetheless, for its target group, the Note 3 is one of the best, if not, the best Galaxy handset from Samsung yet.

The Note 3 differs from most of its competitors because of its size. It does not hide the fact that it is a considerably sized smartphone. Samsung knows that form factor will not suit everyone. With the size and specs of the device, Note 3 starts for a price of $950.

When it comes to competition, Samsung Galaxy Note 3 competes with Sony's Xperia Z Ultra. As it is a smartphone and from Samsung Apple's iPhone 5 is one of its rivals. So how does it par?

Impressive Specs

The Galaxy Note 3 looks the part of Samsung's Galaxy series. It measure 5.7 inches. The screen offers a full HD, 1080 x 1920 Super AMOLED display. This means the Note 3 has the same resolution as the Galaxy S4. One difference is that is has lower pixel per density so its images and videos are not as sharp as the S4.

The Galaxy Note 3 still used the same metal frame found on the Galaxy S4. This means it offer a premium look proving that Samsung is ready to take on a new approach to the market. Likewise, it is important to note that the Galaxy Note 3 is the first of its kind to feature the new USB 3.0 connector. The latest connector can offer users faster charging and better hard-wire data transfers.

However, it may appear more of a setback in terms of design. The consolation is that old cables are also compatible with the phone.

Air Command

Many Galaxy Note 3 users will realize that it is all about the screen. The huge screen will not disappoint. The screen also caters to power users. These users like their stylus and what they can do with it. Fortunately, Samsung made sure the Note 3 has something special up its sleeve.

Samsung has developed a fresh stylus-specific menu. This comes in a semi-circle featuring five commands that appears once the user takes out the stylus from its dock. People can dismiss the menu by simply tapping any part of the screen either with their fingertip or the S Pen. Hover the stylus over the display and the menu will go back on.

The Air Command menu is perhaps one of the most excellent upgrades when it comes to styluses. It provides a good idea what the S Pen is all about and what it can do. It also has an exceptional design that looks better than most Android phone interfaces.

Lots of Firsts

Aside from the stylus and its capabilities, the Note 3 also has a few added features which may be worthwhile to mention. It features an infrared blaster on its top. This allows the device to substitute as a remote controller when needed. The Peel remote software functions just fine and can work with a television or a cable box.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is also the first Samsung handset to come with a Magazine Mode. This mode is the result of the Korean tech giant's partnership with Flipboard. This provides a Flipboard-like experience. People can press the home button and begin swiping to explore the interface.

Lastly, the device comes with a special distinction making one of the first handsets that can function with the Samsung Gear smart watch.