What would be the best phone and operating system? Apple IOS or Android?

[Will Thatcher]

I am trying to decide what to get, because I have gotten tired of my Alcatel IDOL 4s which I got last summer!
I am thinking iPhone 7 plus, 7, though I believe that I would be blowing a lot of money on a brand and nothing more.
The other option would be a Samsung S7 edge or the incoming S8 and S8 plus, but just as well, my belief is that I would be paying for the brand alone.
The third option, is to go with a new flagship, either the 1+3T or the incoming 1+5 with android, which are half the price of any of the other phones mentioned.
Also, the operating system is important, because the IOS works great, but it is limited, because you need to pay for everything, while the android may have some glitches, but everything is free! The phone needs to be unlock!
I need some help on this decision, I can get the money for the iPhone and Samsung, but it would be stretched out.
If you know of any other flagships that are out there now, I would be open to any suggestions!.
Any advice is welcome!!!

 

[Commodus]

I am trying to decide what to get, because I have gotten tired of my Alcatel IDOL 4s which I got last summer!
I am thinking iPhone 7 plus, 7, though I believe that I would be blowing a lot of money on a brand and nothing more.
The other option would be a Samsung S7 edge or the incoming S8 and S8 plus, but just as well, my belief is that I would be paying for the brand alone.
The third option, is to go with a new flagship, either the 1+3T or the incoming 1+5 with android, which are half the price of any of the other phones mentioned.
Also, the operating system is important, because the IOS works great, but it is limited, because you need to pay for everything, while the android may have some glitches, but everything is free! The phone needs to be unlock!
I need some help on this decision, I can get the money for the iPhone and Samsung, but it would be stretched out.
If you know of any other flagships that are out there now, I would be open to any suggestions!.
Any advice is welcome!!!

Well first, the "you have to pay for everything on iOS, but it's free on Android" thing isn't true. What are you thinking of, exactly? Apps that are free on Android are usually free on iOS, and vice versa.

Beyond that... what's drawing you to each phone? Do you like the iPhone 7 Plus' dual camera, or are you leaning toward the Galaxy S8's screen? Do you value a phone operating system mainly for speed and timely updates (iOS), or absolute flexibility (Android)? Are you looking for compatibility with certain wearables or in-car systems?

If you're considering the iPhone, see if you can get a deal on it. The next iPhone is likely to be unveiled in September (might not ship right away), and you don't want to pay full price for a 7 Plus when its sequel is just a few months off.

 

[Will Thatcher]

What are the pluses and the minuses of IOS and Android?

 

[Commodus]

What are the pluses and the minuses of IOS and Android?

I'll break it down quickly, because this could be a long debate if you're not careful.

iOS
+ Speed. It's consistently fast, and only really bogs down on old phones.
+ App selection. You tend to get the nice apps first.
+ Timely updates. When a new OS update is available, you get it on day one... for 3-5 years.
+ Integration. Virtually every peripheral supports iOS, and of course Apple tie-ins are great.
+ Security/privacy. Fast security patches, and it's easier to limit what data you share.
- Lack of customization. No home screen widgets, no custom launchers (without jailbreaking, that is)
- Can't change app defaults. If you don't like Safari, you can't make iOS use Chrome by default.
- Limited device selection. This goes without saying, but you can only buy iPhones/iPads.

Android
+ Customization. Widgets, custom launchers, icons, you name it.
+ App default changes. If you hate Chrome, you can use Firefox.
+ Variety of devices. If you don't like the Galaxy S8, you can get the Google Pixel, LG G6, or...
+ Tight Google integration. Go figure!
+ Some hardware features show up here first. They may be compromised, but you won't have to wait.
- Inconsistent performance. Some phones are always fast, some are unusually stuttery even with high-end hardware.
- Slow updates. Unless you get a Pixel, get used to waiting months for OS upgrades (and being purposefully abandoned in 2 years or less).
- Security/privacy. Slow updates hurt security... and while it's not true that Google is tracking everything you do, if you don't like Google's privacy model, you're in a tough spot.

In short: there's no obvious winner. It really comes down to what your priorities are. I use an iPhone 7 (I thrive on speed, and I have a Mac so there's a clear advantage), but I don't begrudge someone who makes an informed choice for Android.

 

[mikeymikec]

Android:
+ Ease of import/export of data, such as music, custom ringtones, etc. With the apps I use, I can target and copy specific bits of data to my PC without having to rely on an 'all or nothing' backup system and/or software that doesn't allow me access to the data itself (e.g. Android Contacts allows one to export to VCF on local storage, and with SMS Backup & Restore I can dump all texts and call logs to XML).

iOS:
+ Ease of importing digital camera photos to the computer using assistant software. When using software on a PC to import digital camera photos, on iOS it can only see the DCIM folder, whereas on Android it can see all or most of the file system, which is the plus point for Android I've already mentioned, but a minus point here because said software can end up slurping random images from the device that were not digital camera photos. Both platforms however allow one to copy images from the DCIM folder without assistant software.
- Good luck trying to get more than absolute basic image information out of the Photos app. Even a file name apparently is "too complicated".

IMO Apple's basic philosophy is "we make our products easy to use, only if you choose to do things the way we expect you to", and if you don't, they become more difficult to use. I personally prefer flexibility even if it means more options, therefore more complication (at least to begin with).

 

[Will Thatcher]

Thank you for all the advice. This clears up some things. So what do you think is the best iPhone model and or Android phone taking into consideration price vs quality?

 

[Commodus]

Thank you for all the advice. This clears up some things. So what do you think is the best iPhone model and or Android phone taking into consideration price vs quality?

My picks:

On Apple's side: iPhone 7 128GB if you don't crave the dual camera, similar-capacity iPhone 7 Plus if you do. 32GB is a bit small if you plan to take a lot of photos or play many games, and 256GB is still overkill for most people.

For Android: Google Pixel 128GB (or Pixel XL if you insist on a bigger screen). No, not the S8! While its screen is amazing and I wouldn't fault you at all for getting one, the Pixel may feel practically faster and will definitely have a healthier OS update schedule. That and it has a fingerprint reader you can actually find by feel. I just wish it had water resistance.

 

[Will Thatcher]

I believe that 128 GB is more than enough, and yes, only 32 GB is not enough at this time for everything needed, photos, movies and everything else.
What are your thoughts regarding the incoming One Plus 5 which actually has a lower price than any of the two listed above?

 

[s44]

The S7 Edge is absurdly cheap now given that it's not really worse than the S8. Great camera, wireless charging, incredible screen, and microSD support so storage is basically unlimited.

 

[Commodus]

I believe that 128 GB is more than enough, and yes, only 32 GB is not enough at this time for everything needed, photos, movies and everything else.
What are your thoughts regarding the incoming One Plus 5 which actually has a lower price than any of the two listed above?

Well, we don't know what the OnePlus 5's actual price is, because it hasn't been announced yet.

Based on leaks, though, it could be promising... dual cameras, Snapdragon 835 and a hefty battery for (presumably) considerably less than the competition? The only thing I'm not so sure about is long-term OS update support, but I suspect it's fine if you're used to Android's delays.

 

[edcoolio]

IOS if you need a simple and easy device. Buy as much storage as your budget will allow.

Android if you want full control, but still easy.

Android is best if you want tons of storage (through microSD cards) and want to select devices that have replaceable batteries.

Personally, I like control. This means that I customize my device like crazy. I also have tons of spare batteries so I never run out of juice and my downtime is measured in seconds. Finally, I have a few 256GB microSD cards that I fill with, frankly, whatever I feel like (movies, linux distros, music, etc).

In the end, read this, some reviews, and what @mikeymikec and @Commodus have to say. Tons of good information but, as they say, to each his own!

 

[jhansman]

So here's what I tell anyone who asks me that: go into the provider's store (or any of them) you plan to sign up with and play with an iPhone for 10 min. or so, and then an Android phone for the same. In that time, your brain will tell you a lot about what works for you OS-wise, and if you are likely to be happy with your choice. Asking your question here invites informed, yet biased opinions. Me, I prefer Android, and have yet to encounter a solid reason why I should switch. I can give you all my reasons and why I have them, but your experience is what counts most, so check it out.

 

[core2slow]

quick answer is whether you're tech-savvy or not. If you're the type that gets overwhelmed by options, not good with troubleshooting, just want something that works, and have the tendency to bitch and moan a lot when something isn't working - then go with Apple. Otherwise, android is your best friend.

 

[Zaap]

Exactly what jhansman said. Best way to know which you prefer is just by hands-on using both and going with your preference. You can hear pros and cons third party all day long, and in reality it won't end up mattering to you much vs. your own hands-on preferences.

This is similar to the old Mac vs. PC debate- except with computers the real solution IMO, was just to use both. Computers actually get along great together- even if the zealots of each platform may not- and have remained so similar in use there's little reason not to avail oneself of both and forget the arguments.

With phones, we tend to only have one we use all the time, so the choice is a lot more practical.

Test out both, go with what fits your own personal needs/wants most.

 

[J.Wilkins]

I am trying to decide what to get, because I have gotten tired of my Alcatel IDOL 4s which I got last summer!
I am thinking iPhone 7 plus, 7, though I believe that I would be blowing a lot of money on a brand and nothing more.
The other option would be a Samsung S7 edge or the incoming S8 and S8 plus, but just as well, my belief is that I would be paying for the brand alone.
The third option, is to go with a new flagship, either the 1+3T or the incoming 1+5 with android, which are half the price of any of the other phones mentioned.
Also, the operating system is important, because the IOS works great, but it is limited, because you need to pay for everything, while the android may have some glitches, but everything is free! The phone needs to be unlock!
I need some help on this decision, I can get the money for the iPhone and Samsung, but it would be stretched out.
If you know of any other flagships that are out there now, I would be open to any suggestions!.
Any advice is welcome!!!

I'm an Android guy since I like to have control over the code of the system I'm running so IOS is out for me. On the other hand Samsung is one of the few brands when it comes to phones that I will never touch again.

I'd get the Pixel 2.

 

[Will Thatcher]

So here's what I tell anyone who asks me that: go into the provider's store (or any of them) you plan to sign up with and play with an iPhone for 10 min. or so, and then an Android phone for the same. In that time, your brain will tell you a lot about what works for you OS-wise, and if you are likely to be happy with your choice. Asking your question here invites informed, yet biased opinions. Me, I prefer Android, and have yet to encounter a solid reason why I should switch. I can give you all my reasons and why I have them, but your experience is what counts most, so check it out.

Thank you for the good advice, I took it and it turns out that Android is the best option for me right now. I haven't made my head up towards what Android system to get, any suggestions to any new android phones would be worth looking at would be great. I am currently thinking of the One Plus 3T. What other android phones are worth looking for??

 

[Commodus]

Thank you for the good advice, I took it and it turns out that Android is the best option for me right now. I haven't made my head up towards what Android system to get, any suggestions to any new android phones would be worth looking at would be great. I am currently thinking of the One Plus 3T. What other android phones are worth looking for??

The OnePlus 5 is right around the corner, so if you can afford to wait a bit, that might be good... though I wouldn't be surprised if it costs more than the 3T.

The Pixel series remains my pick, but I would also consider the HTC U11 or LG G6 if you don't mind non-stock Android. The U11 has "just" a regular 16:9 screen, but it's supposed to be fast, packs a great camera and has that super-shiny back. The LG G6, meanwhile, is sort of like the S8's more responsible cousin: it has an extra-tall screen, but it's a little tougher and has a fingerprint reader in a smarter location. Only gotcha is that it's using a slower CPU, but it's still quick.

 

[gorcorps]

I'll break it down quickly, because this could be a long debate if you're not careful.

iOS
+ Speed. It's consistently fast, and only really bogs down on old phones.
+ App selection. You tend to get the nice apps first.
+ Timely updates. When a new OS update is available, you get it on day one... for 3-5 years.
+ Integration. Virtually every peripheral supports iOS, and of course Apple tie-ins are great.
+ Security/privacy. Fast security patches, and it's easier to limit what data you share.
- Lack of customization. No home screen widgets, no custom launchers (without jailbreaking, that is)
- Can't change app defaults. If you don't like Safari, you can't make iOS use Chrome by default.
- Limited device selection. This goes without saying, but you can only buy iPhones/iPads.

Android
+ Customization. Widgets, custom launchers, icons, you name it.
+ App default changes. If you hate Chrome, you can use Firefox.
+ Variety of devices. If you don't like the Galaxy S8, you can get the Google Pixel, LG G6, or...
+ Tight Google integration. Go figure!
+ Some hardware features show up here first. They may be compromised, but you won't have to wait.
- Inconsistent performance. Some phones are always fast, some are unusually stuttery even with high-end hardware.
- Slow updates. Unless you get a Pixel, get used to waiting months for OS upgrades (and being purposefully abandoned in 2 years or less).
- Security/privacy. Slow updates hurt security... and while it's not true that Google is tracking everything you do, if you don't like Google's privacy model, you're in a tough spot.

In short: there's no obvious winner. It really comes down to what your priorities are. I use an iPhone 7 (I thrive on speed, and I have a Mac so there's a clear advantage), but I don't begrudge someone who makes an informed choice for Android.

As someone who is using both every day (work iphone and personal Android) I think some of this is outdated. Granted I don't have the fastest iphone out there, but I have the iphone 6 which was just 1 year behind when I got it. Despite that, I was surprised how clunky and less than fluid everything was. The +speed comment IMO isn't much of an advantage anymore, and frankly might even be worse on the iphone side from what I've seen. I won't compare it to my s8 which is brand new and should be faster, but even compared to my 6P the iphone seemed behind.

The last iphone I had was the 4, at which point the speed/smoothness of the iphone was very apparent. These days I really don't see it. At the very least, they're both equal now.

 

[Commodus]

As someone who is using both every day (work iphone and personal Android) I think some of this is outdated. Granted I don't have the fastest iphone out there, but I have the iphone 6 which was just 1 year behind when I got it. Despite that, I was surprised how clunky and less than fluid everything was. The +speed comment IMO isn't much of an advantage anymore, and frankly might even be worse on the iphone side from what I've seen. I won't compare it to my s8 which is brand new and should be faster, but even compared to my 6P the iphone seemed behind.

The last iphone I had was the 4, at which point the speed/smoothness of the iphone was very apparent. These days I really don't see it. At the very least, they're both equal now.

Right before I got my iPhone 7, I was using a 6 on iOS 10. It was still pretty smooth! May be a your-mileage-may-vary situation, but I don't remember it being a mess.

And while Android phones are definitely getting better about performance, you'll still see problems that just shouldn't happen. I've heard reports of S8 users running into minor stuttering, for example. It's less a matter of how phones fare in the long run and more how well they handle out of the gate. If you're already seeing slowdowns on day one, that doesn't bode well for a year or two later.

 

[J.Wilkins]

Right before I got my iPhone 7, I was using a 6 on iOS 10. It was still pretty smooth! May be a your-mileage-may-vary situation, but I don't remember it being a mess.

And while Android phones are definitely getting better about performance, you'll still see problems that just shouldn't happen. I've heard reports of S8 users running into minor stuttering, for example. It's less a matter of how phones fare in the long run and more how well they handle out of the gate. If you're already seeing slowdowns on day one, that doesn't bode well for a year or two later.

Samsung is a special case when it comes to Android and should never be the point of comparison, take a look at Googles phones instead or any other phone with a reasonable software configuration.

 

[Will Thatcher]

I've heard that HTC has been going on a down stream lately regarding the phones that they build, but the new LG G6 looks like a good choice as well. I don't think it's in the same league as the One Plus 5 but it shore comes close.
Any other ideas?

 

[J.Wilkins]

I've heard that HTC has been going on a down stream lately regarding the phones that they build, but the new LG G6 looks like a good choice as well. I don't think it's in the same league as the One Plus 5 but it shore comes close.
Any other ideas?

HTC is doing the Pixel, Pixel 2 and the Pixel 3 next year so they are probably pretty busy with that.

Both the Pixel 2 and the OnePlus 5 have the 835 so between them it's obviously Pixel 2 that wins hands down (since it's got Googles official support). The LG G6 has the older 821 so it won't match up against those two.

LG V30 has the 835 so that might be an option.

 

[gorcorps]

Right before I got my iPhone 7, I was using a 6 on iOS 10. It was still pretty smooth! May be a your-mileage-may-vary situation, but I don't remember it being a mess.

And while Android phones are definitely getting better about performance, you'll still see problems that just shouldn't happen. I've heard reports of S8 users running into minor stuttering, for example. It's less a matter of how phones fare in the long run and more how well they handle out of the gate. If you're already seeing slowdowns on day one, that doesn't bode well for a year or two later.

To be fair I didn't call it a mess, it's just not the standout that it used to be. I didn't want to compare my s8 to the iphone 6 because they're several generations apart, but the s8 beats the panties off of anything I've used yet (and it should). Things like stuttering and smoothness can be pretty subjective though, so its hard to compare one persons report to another... that's why I prefer comparing a single persons report of different devices so the tolerance to smoothness should be the same. The only downside there is of course personal bias, which I won't deny might be at play here. Since it's my work phone I don't use it as regularly as my personal phone, and may not be used to the way it works... but that also means it doesn't have much in the way of apps installed so it should be as smooth as can be.

There's a lot of things about the iphone 6 that I don't like that I can just chalk up to differences in what I'm used to, but performance has never been any better than the nexus 6P I was using before. Using that as a perk to the iphone side IMO isn't as clear as it used to be, that's all.

Everyone is different in what they're looking for, but after owning iphones, Nexus and Samsung devices I'm confident that Samsung's experience is right for me. I think vanilla android is still missing things, and what Samsung has been putting together gives me everything I'm looking for.

 

[mrochester]

I find navigating iOS much more intuitive and simpler than navigating Android. Google are clinging onto their legacy back and recent apps buttons. I wish they'd get rid of them and build this functionality into the UI already.

iOS also has the benefit of being able to sync very easily with your existing iTunes library on your computer. You just connect your phone and hit 'sync' and all your music is transferred over, no need to manually have to manage via a file manager. You also get full device backups in iTunes too.

There's also the benefit of not having to deal with/use Google products and services and supporting their anti-competitive business practices. The less people use Google, the better.

 

[Red Storm]

Right before I got my iPhone 7, I was using a 6 on iOS 10. It was still pretty smooth! May be a your-mileage-may-vary situation, but I don't remember it being a mess.

And while Android phones are definitely getting better about performance, you'll still see problems that just shouldn't happen. I've heard reports of S8 users running into minor stuttering, for example. It's less a matter of how phones fare in the long run and more how well they handle out of the gate. If you're already seeing slowdowns on day one, that doesn't bode well for a year or two later.

I experience stuttering and occasional freezing on my iPhone 7 Plus. I experienced the same thing on my (work issued) iPhone 6S, iPhone 6, and iPhone 5S. Same goes for every Android phone I've ever had too. No phone - be it Android or iOS - has ever been lag free.