General **What phone should I buy next?** -- Not sure what device to buy? Ask here!

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KidCarter93

Retired Forum Moderator
Mar 26, 2012
14,587
7,732
30
Coventry, UK
Hi everyone,

This thread is a continuation of this thread.

This is here so you can discuss what your next phone/tablet should be, if you're not sure what to pick.

Also, if you need advice as to which device is better than another, then feel free to ask those questions in here aswell.

This is an attempt to clear out all the similar threads being created around these forums.

*NOTE* I will be requesting thread maintenance as and when it is needed, to remove any SPAM comments
 
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hrpanjwani

Member
Jan 3, 2015
18
3
... unless you value the ability to mod your OS.

A rooted Android device allows a lot more OS modification than a jailbroken iPhone.
It's good to expand your boundaries.

Personally, an iPhone has been my main phone for almost 15 years. But I have also had some version of Android as a secondary phone in that time. Samsung, Nexus, Xiaomi, Nokia, LG.

It's fun to play around with different aspects of technology.
 

HippoMan

Senior Member
May 5, 2009
3,474
2,612
Hippoland
It's good to expand your boundaries.

Personally, an iPhone has been my main phone for almost 15 years. But I have also had some version of Android as a secondary phone in that time. Samsung, Nexus, Xiaomi, Nokia, LG.

It's fun to play around with different aspects of technology.
Yes, I agree that it's good to expand ones horizons, and for many people it could be beneficial to check out an iPhone.

I'm just pointing out to those people who root and mod their Android devices that jailbroken iPhones allow fewer OS and feature modifications than rooted iPhones. On a jailbroken iPhone, you are more constrained to limits imposed by the Apple ecosystem than you would be limited to Android ecosystem limits on a rooted Android device.

In other words, if modding and extending your OS beyond the manufacturer's imposed limitations is important to you, you will find that Apple makes this more difficult than Android does.

Apple is famous for (often proudly) forcing user-experience constraints which in many cases are impossible to override, even on jailbroken phones. Android is freer in this area ... although over time, Google keeps imposing more and more Apple-like limitations upon its users, and Android may eventually catch up with iOS in this area.
 
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puru

Member

Buying Decision (S22 Ultra)​


Hey please help in buying decision

Thinking of getting a S22 Ultra 512GB from US (I am from India) - Retailing for $1100 as of now.
I have to root as I tend to use quite a few rooted apps (mainly to block tons of ads, data privacy, spoof location, etc)
1. Need to know which version is easiest to root (Exynos, Snapdragon) and even the region code if possible.
2. Is it possible to receive updates (OTA or otherwise) without a reset?
3. Is it worth waiting till S23 is released in Feb 2023? (For price drops of S22)

Why S22?
Primarily for the great camera. I considered Pixel Pro but S22 outshines in the features.
 
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hrpanjwani

Member
Jan 3, 2015
18
3
Yes, I agree that it's good to expand ones horizons, and for many people it could be beneficial to check out an iPhone.

I'm just pointing out to those people who root and mod their Android devices that jailbroken iPhones allow fewer OS and feature modifications than rooted iPhones. On a jailbroken iPhone, you are more constrained to limits imposed by the Apple ecosystem than you would be limited to Android ecosystem limits on a rooted Android device.

In other words, if modding and extending your OS beyond the manufacturer's imposed limitations is important to you, you will find that Apple makes this more difficult than Android does.

Apple is famous for (often proudly) forcing user-experience constraints which in many cases are impossible to override, even on jailbroken phones. Android is freer in this area ... although over time, Google keeps imposing more and more Apple-like limitations upon its users, and Android may eventually catch up with iOS in this area.
Yes, Apple has a specific vision and you have to buy into that vision to use their devices. For example, slide to unlock was useful and a good marketing gimmick and now it is gone but we still use it to power off devices. Could do with an update there and add reboot, reboot into recovery, etc but Apple requires a hardware interaction for those. That's their vision and they will stick to it.

I agree that Google used to be much more flexible but the shareholder demand for services revenue is making both companies much more controlling than one would like. Microsoft did not get their Windows/Office blinkers off in time to compete in mobile and HP with WebOS could have been a good competitor but they folded just as they were starting. Having even one more real competitor in the mobile OS landscape could have seen a different outcome for us consumers.
 
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sa20001

New member
Jul 29, 2016
2
1
Hi, I was looking for a new phone. I am currently using an S7 with Lineage Os, I was looking for something that has the same size, sd card slot, waterproof and fingerprint sensor and good durability. S10E meets all the requirements, but my only concern is that the camera will work like crap as soon as I install a custom rom.

Any advice?
 

Perico pericales

New member
Nov 22, 2022
2
2
Hi guys, I´m in need of something for our company:

We need a inexpensive phone (between 100€ and 200€) that could have a clean custom rom with firewall afwall+, no google apps and, if possible, openvpn integrated for always on (and it could not be modified)

Access the phone remotely via vpn could be great in case a change is needed in the vpn.

What phone do you recommend for that?

Is there someone willing to do this? We could talk privately if he/she is interested.

Thanks!!!
 

svenik

Member
Oct 12, 2014
7
0
Hi all, please
What smartphone would you recommend to buy up to 500 euro?

I was thinking about Poco F4 8/256, or OnePlus Nord 2T 5G, 128 or 256, Nothing phone 1
I would expect good amoled display, with nice stereo sound (bass + volume) and a good camera at least with OIS
Or is there something else to look on please? Thank you
 

DmT1

Member
Jan 2, 2015
5
0
Hi,

Posting to this forum, as maybe someone can suggest a smartphone with removable battery, which has some features I like and use on my current phone.

Right now I am using LG G4 and it might be time to update it. However the newer versions G5 and V20 have no way to unlock bootloader (and get root - to remove Google spying and add firewall/xprivacy) and therefore I am unable to find a phone which meets all my criteria.

So preferrably I would like a smartphone which:
- has removable battery
- is rootable
- has IR sensor
- has FM radio
- has microSD card slot
- has headphone jack
- has a decent camera

If someone know some smartphone model, which meets those, then please share you wisdom!:)

Thank you!
 

Laesx

Member
Nov 23, 2022
8
2

Buy Lenovo P11 Pro 2022 (TB132FU) or P11 Pro 2021 (J716F)​


Little backstory, I have the 2021 version of this (which I bought second hand but I'm returning it because the screen is terrible at low brightness, see picture).
So I've spotted a sale I can get either of these two tables and they're the same price, my question is which one would be better, the info I know so far is:

2021:
+ Easier to flash apparently as I see on the forum, much more support
- Screens seem to be really poorly QC'd so it's a lottery (although this might be for both)

2022:
+ "Better" Screen since it's 120Hz, has PWM or w/e and a higher sampling rate, different panel from the 2021 so I'm hoping the QC is slightly better.
- No fingerprint
- Bigger Bezels which look kinda ugly but I can live with
- Less proper documentation for flashing/L1/OTA, etc. makes me trust it less

I'm debating if I should get a 2022 or a 2021, also I've heard some bad things about ZUI 14 being buggy (which my current tab doesn't have) so I'm not sure what to do.
Specially in the screen part of things since it's what's most important.

Picture of what I was talking about, This should be solid dark grey. It would be helpful if owners of them could try taking pictures of how they fare on low brightness.
20221118_024737.jpg
 
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hrpanjwani

Member
Jan 3, 2015
18
3
Hi all, please
What smartphone would you recommend to buy up to 500 euro?

I was thinking about Poco F4 8/256, or OnePlus Nord 2T 5G, 128 or 256, Nothing phone 1
I would expect good amoled display, with nice stereo sound (bass + volume) and a good camera at least with OIS
Or is there something else to look on please? Thank you
Go for the Nord
 

anmac1789@gmail.com

Senior Member
May 27, 2016
239
6
toronto
Samsung Galaxy S8
Hello, I am looking to buy a pixel 7 or a oneplus 9 vs. S21 FE or a S22 (international models). I want a rootable stable phone that will not give crazy issues with windows 10/11. The pixel 7 I can buy from my cellphone carrier koodo mobile (https://www.koodomobile.com/en/phones?INTCMP=KMNew_NavMenu_Shop_Phones). I live in Ontario, Canada so mind you, I will be buying a device within Canada (mostly). Which phone should I get ? thanks for your input

Also, does anyone know what the naming convention is for taking photos with the built-in camera of each device ? Thanks for another one!
 

liberator130

Member
Dec 19, 2014
32
0
Well each has their strengths and weaknesses. The Moto has a better processor and video and selfie capabilities, while the Poco has a better build quality, IP53 resistant, photography capability, screen, microsd, headphone jack, charging speed and better custom rom community support.
Hello, I have a follow-up: it seems like the M4 and X3 may have advantages over the X4. I heard that the X3 has better hardware yet it (Indian model?) has had issues (I'm buying in the US). Do you have any thoughts on the M4 and X3 as well, and which one is a better buy in this case?

Addition: The Galaxy S10e is also looking attractive. It has features that I like, smaller, and cheaper than the other phones. I figure it has good mod support too because it's a flagship phone? Any thoughts help! ty
 
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tralph3

Senior Member
Aug 16, 2016
146
63
Hi, I'm wanting to replace my old Huawei P8 lite from 2015. I don't know many models, so I'm looking for recommendations.

There are some things that I cannot give up tho. I'll put a list of things that are required. I won't accept any phone without these.

REQUIREMENTS:
* Official custom ROM support (anything that lets me remove Google completely)
* 3.5mm audio jack
* Expandable storage via micro sd card
* No Samsung or Pixel phones

PREFERABLY:
* No notch
* No more than 5.5 inches
* NFC
* No punch hole camera, I want an unobstructed screen

Well, that's about it. The price range needs to be kinda low, not much more than maybe $100. I live in Argentina, electronics are expensive, and wages are low. What options do I have?
 

20GT

Senior Member
Oct 1, 2014
81
20
Orlando

Advice needed: best (up to date) as possible new phone for rooting​


Hi guys, wasn't sure where to post this, so feel free to move it to a better suited forum if needed.

My phone is 5 years old and its time for new one. Whats an easy, but worthy phone, to root thats still relatively easy to aquire.
 
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Sora4449

New member
Nov 21, 2022
4
0
I'm torn between huawei nova 9 and honor 50
Where I live they are almost the same price
Nova 9 has better cam
Honor 50 has Google services. Other than that they are the same.
 

phaleg

Senior Member
Jul 20, 2012
1,014
164
Velletri, RM
bit.ly
Hello!

Would you please suggest me a decent rugged phone with custom roms support?

Nothing fancy, it is enough that it is not super long and narrow like 99% of phones that are creating now

Thanks
 

Fytdyh

Senior Member
Hi, I'm wanting to replace my old Huawei P8 lite from 2015. I don't know many models, so I'm looking for recommendations.

There are some things that I cannot give up tho. I'll put a list of things that are required. I won't accept any phone without these.

REQUIREMENTS:
* Official custom ROM support (anything that lets me remove Google completely)
* 3.5mm audio jack
* Expandable storage via micro sd card
* No Samsung or Pixel phones

PREFERABLY:
* No notch
* No more than 5.5 inches
* NFC
* No punch hole camera, I want an unobstructed screen

Well, that's about it. The price range needs to be kinda low, not much more than maybe $100. I live in Argentina, electronics are expensive, and wages are low. What options do I have?
Go for redmi note 4 (snapdragon version)
 

Top Liked Posts

  • 1
    dont forget AlphaDroid!!!!! and RisingTechOSS
    On it mate.. .will add it in the list!
    1
    Pleased to hear mate.

    Does it apply to redmi phones too?
    Yes, but only in China for now... Some people in other Asian countries have also seen these new restrictions but not everyone has. It'll be instated everywhere else eventually though...
  • 1
    Pixel 6A, Xiaomi 12X, Asus Zenfone 9 cons disadvantages

    Friends,
    have You got any experiences with those phones and ROM like AOSP: LinkageOS, Paranoid etc ?
    Asus can be with stock rom.

    I'm searching smartfone with max lenght 155 mm, battery min 4,4 Ah and possibility to install AOSP Android, especially for Xiaomi models.
    Rather without rounded display edge..
    Actually Asus Zenfone 10/11, Xiaomi 13/14 is too expensive and difficult to get from second hand.
    They're all great, but steer clear of the Zenfone if you want custom ROMs (they pulled the unlock tool). I have a 6a and it is fast and smooth but the 12X should be a great phone (SD870 is good and it has more RAM).

    I'd say choose a 12X if it's an option...
    1
    I can't believe it's been so long since I joined, and posted an intro. I still have the same phone, and I need to "upgrade" badly. This sounds like the right thread to ask.

    First, I'm looking for suggestions to replace a Galaxy S7, SM-G930W8 (Exynos).
    My main uses for a mobile phone are: texting, email, web browsing/streaming (eg: youtube), "tools" apps - eg: unit converters/calculators, and some..specific apps like TrolMaster (indoor gardening, at/for work) and Appliance apps - eg: Danby, etc., video/music listening - eg: VLC, and taking photos. I sometimes like to connect a usb microscope to it via usb OTG
    The camera on my S7 has been broken for years. I'm struggling without it. I have to ask roommate to use phone for their camera.
    I'd like expandable storage, have manufacturers completely removed that option now too?

    Forgive my incorrect terminology; I want something "unlocked"(?) or easily unlockable (bootloader, right?), that I can put a custom ROM on (Calyx, or Lineage are two that interest me), good camera (I don't need the latest triple lense, 5-dimensional, 8K camera. But I don't wan't worse than what the S7 has - including video capabilities such as 1080p 60fps if possible). Headphone jack please (though I do finally have BT headphones now). USB-C charging would be nice. I would be ok with the same or larger size/screen as S7.
    And I'm not looking to buy a brand new "flagship" $1800 phone either. I think I bought this S7 used, a few years old/after release for maybe $300-400 cad.
    I'd love to hear some suggestions.

    Thank you.

    Edit: Where are some online sources to buy quality used phones? Like Pixel phones, for example. If there are any.
    The best place to buy used devices depends on where you live.

    Here in the United States Swappa and Back Market are great (BackMarket is also available in a few other countries). Based on your usage of the Canadian dollar I'd assume you live in Canada in which case eBay refurbished is your best option.

    Most phones from the past ~3 years don't have expandable storage (Samsung A series does but also has no ROMs) oZr headphone jacks (enfones had them but they pulled their bootloader unlock tool so you can't ROM them anymore).

    I'd say get a used Pixel 7 Pro or 7 and flash Lineage on it, it'd serve you well for the next few years (here is a link to a used 7 for about 350 CAD on eBay Canada). (edit: it's already out of stock)
    1

    OnePlus 12 vs Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Xiaomi 14


    I can get OnePlus 12 or Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Xiaomi 14 at similar price around 700 dollars in my region. For my important aspects are:
    1. Display: My eyes are a little bit sensitive to PWM, but it's relatively acceptable to me with the "Аnti-flicker" option in Xiaomi OS, but it's not perfectly


    2. Root and mod friendly: official/unofficial custom roms and mods by OnePlus/Xiaomi fan groups ( which fan group has more development in this aspect)


    3. Camera: I'm interested in who has offer the better hardware and therefore the possibility of improvement by software (GCAM) as well as modifications by fan groups

    1.As far as I can find both phones Xiaomi 13 Ultra and Xiaomi 14 run at 1920 Hz under 50% brightness, I'm not shure when Oneplus 12 switch to 2160 Hz PWM and which one is better in this aspect.

    2. I am not familiar with the oneplus fangroup and how root/custom roms/mods friendly it is compare to Xiaomi

    3. Through the GCAM I manage to get more satisfactory photos and videos to my taste with my custom settings both through GCAM and through Modded MI Cam from my old Xiaomi smartphone, don't know how is with Oneplus

    I find all other specs almost similar
    OnePlus is pretty root/rom friendly (more than Xiaomi these days) and GCam ports for the 12 are available (see this XDA post for more info). I'd say it's personal preference but the OP will definitely get more ROMs if that's what you're after.
    1
    Hey all,
    Looking to replace my OnePlus 7 Pro.
    tl;dr Most importantly (if such a thing exists) i need Call Recordings to be possible without Root
    I'm mainly looking for a clear Android experience (Oxygen OS is a good example), a decent phone, no need for any bells/whistles.

    My work requires all sorts of apps and the CISO is being a pain about using a rooted phone, I'm willing to forge adblocking, but giving up on call recordings (Which saved my ass in court 3 times so far) is a big no no.

    thanks!
    Most Galaxies allow call recording, and new OnePlus phones do too. However, I wouldn't call modern Oxygen or OneUI close to stock, so you could also try CubeACR on a phone that doesn't have the feature (e.g a Pixel)
    1
    What phone and/or OS for mobile has the best likelihood of resisting zero click attacks?
    GrapheneOS is designed with security and privacy in mind and uses techniques like sandboxing to prevent attacks - maybe it'd work? It's open source and doesn't require unlocking the BL to work. Only downside is you'd need a Pixel to use it.
  • 80
    Hi everyone,

    This thread is a continuation of this thread.

    This is here so you can discuss what your next phone/tablet should be, if you're not sure what to pick.

    Also, if you need advice as to which device is better than another, then feel free to ask those questions in here aswell.

    This is an attempt to clear out all the similar threads being created around these forums.

    *NOTE* I will be requesting thread maintenance as and when it is needed, to remove any SPAM comments
    14
    Excellent, I hope this will attract some discussion on new devices so new threads won't be opened.

    I am not looking for a new phone right now, well maybe not depending on the outcome of HTC repairing my Sensation I guess. I sure hope to find out tomorrow. I think if I was going to get a replacement now I would probably get the SGS3 over the OneX. I really don't like the non-removable battery and maybe worse, no SD slot. I know why they did it for economic reasons but I am just not going to go that direction. Batteries do not last forever and their maximum charge level goes down over time. I want to be able to plug the SD into my computer and do a local backup. I also want to be able to get a bigger or faster SD if one comes out.
    I am used to Sense but I am sure I could get used to Touchwiz as well, and I just read in the portal that ROM Cleaner works with the SGS3 now, as long as I can rid of the bloat I am content. I am sure that when my contract is done in a year there will be something newer and better out anyways. ;)
    14
    I hope it does aswell. These forums definitely have too many of those threads being created :rolleyes:

    I think I'd choose the S3 aswell to be honest. Even though the One X is a powerful phone, the S3 can quite easily out perform it, as it can with most phones.

    The only time I'd be looking to upgrade is when mine become redundant, which with having an S2 (which can still keep up with the newest flagship devices) and Xperia S, I won't need to upgrade for a while I don't think.

    Sent from Stephen Hawking's rooted wheelchair
    12
    I would take the Lumina. My girlfriend has one and its pretty good.

    √ HTC Evo 3D GSM
    √ Android JB 4.1.2
    √ Disarmed Toaster
    √ 4EXT Recovery Touch
    √ Anthrax Kernel 3.7.0 @ 1.6ghz
    9
    Never owned a tablet before.. flirting with the idea of a galaxy tab 2 10.1. As of current, I'm all good with my s3 but I'm kinda interested in what this next galaxy note 2 will bring. Guess I'm some sort of galaxy fan.. ever since my vibrant :p

    ---> Brought to you in part by my T999 / T-Mobile Galaxy SIII :)