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Pixel XL 2 vs Note 8- your winner?

  • Pixel XL

    Votes: 8 33.3%
  • Note 8

    Votes: 16 66.7%

  • Total voters
    24

The Game 161

macrumors Nehalem
Original poster
Dec 15, 2010
30,980
20,169
UK
So for those who have both or had to choose between the two which is your winner here?

If I was to get an android as a 2nd device it's clearly between this two.
 

Cryates

macrumors 68040
Nov 19, 2013
3,341
5,283
I've only owned the 2XL, and it's my current device, but the vote for me is easy because of stock Android. The Note 8 is no doubt phenomenal hardware and would scream with stock Android, but it's got Samsung's software alterations, which minor or major, will inevtiably cause issues at some point or another. I owned the S8+ very briefly and while it was fantastic hardware, I could not get on with 'Samsung Experience'.

You also can't put a price on timely software updates - something only the Pixel can offer. Similar to iOS, when Google releases the update, you get it. There is no waiting for Samsung to get it, modify it, then wait on a carrier to push the update. Also, no bloatware.

I was a very long time user of iOS looking to move to Android, and I dabbled with a few devices over the years but nothing can match what the Pixel 2XL gives me and I have zero regrets about breaking free from the chains of the Apple ecosystem.

Be aware of the QC issues that have come up with the 2XL though, and understand that it's still very much a lottery. I seemingly got a very good device, but not everyone has.
 
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co.ag.2005

macrumors 68020
Jun 17, 2009
2,365
1,810
Fort Worth, TX
I've owned both and prefer the Pixel 2 XL. But the Note 8 is a fantastic phone. Best samsung phone ever by a long shot IMO. I just prefer the ergonomics of the Pixel and stock Android
 

jamezr

macrumors P6
Aug 7, 2011
16,074
19,069
US
I have both and really like them both. But if I had to choose between them....... it would be the Note 8 all day long. It just offers so much more in the way of features and productivity.
 
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michael9891

Cancelled
Sep 26, 2016
3,060
3,945
I've owned both for at least 2 months each. Both fantastic phones and much prefer either to any iPhone I've owned (X included).But I had a slight preference for the Pixel, so sold my Note for it.

For me, it cane down to the better camera, especially the front one and I also like the panoramic modes on the Pixel. And while both are very similar in size, I prefer the feel & size of the Pixel.

If it's just as a secondary device, maybe go with the Note as they're a lot cheaper to buy. Either way, you really can't go wrong with either.
 
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Macalicious2011

macrumors 68000
May 15, 2011
1,860
1,973
London
My S6 Edge Plus is suffering from a few problems lately and needs to be replaced. I've done a few trips to carphonewarehouse to touch and feel every phone, as well as watched countless of reviews.

The shortlist is down to two phones: Pixel 2 XL and Note8/S8Plus. It's undeniable that that Samsungs phone are utterly stunning thanks to the gorgeous screen and bezel-less sides. Picking up a Pixel 2 XL almost feels like holding a dumb phone in comparison. It's bulkier and has rounded corners with notable bezels.

However, the S9 will noticably slower whether it's opening apps, scrolling, switching tabs or even typing. It's almost embarrassing. The snappier user experience and the supreme camera has pushed me towards the 2XL.

Because I'm not in love with the design, I've ordered a used Pixel 2 XL which I will replace with a Pixel 3 XL, if it's sleeker and has facial unlock.
 
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