As you’ll notice from our coverage here on the site, we get to play with a fair amount of new devices. In fact, there are several tablets and smartphones sitting on my desk at the moment, including the HTC One (M8) and Samsung Galaxy S5. As those are the two new flagships we suspect many readers would love the opportunity to say the same. The thing is, we aren’t saying this to brag, but instead to illustrate a point about how the hot new device may not be the best (for you).
Aside from the obvious bit about many being locked into a contract, sometimes a newer device just doesn’t match up with all your requirements. My personally owned smartphone is a Moto Maker Moto X on Verizon Wireless. On paper the One (M8) and Galaxy S5 should easily top the Moto X. But, I miss my Moto X when I am using either of those devices. Sure, the M8 and S5 are both great devices, but for me, the Moto X is still my go to option. It is the handset I prefer, and likely the one I will continue using for a while.
These are all personal reasons specific to me, but the Moto X feels good in my hand. I really like the curved back and the logo dimple always seems to find my finger. I carry my phone when running, so the smaller size is really beneficial to me. Other items I tend to miss when using another phone is the Active Notifications. Again, a personal preference, but those are so nice to have.
Another highlight for me is Touchless Control. In enjoy being able to say ‘Ok Google Now’ and have my phone wake to my voice. Sure, I often pick it up from that point, but I can get my search started as my hand is heading to my phone. Basically, I use that as a little time saver. Other phones have similar quick launch options for the camera, but I am stuck on the shake to wake the camera functionality on the Moto X.
Anyway, I could probably keep going with reasons why I prefer the Moto X. But in an effort to keep this from stretching any further, I’ll offer the following; you shouldn’t necessarily feel the need to upgrade to the “latest or greatest” smartphone that enters the carrier lineup.
You may not always have the latest, but you may have the greatest (for you). Remember, these are personal devices.
To further that, sometimes buying an older model has another perk — a lower price. Looking only at the Verizon Wireless pricing as an example, the HTC One (M8) and Galaxy S5 are both $199.99 on a two-year agreement. At the moment the Moto X is free, and the Moto Maker model is available beginning at a penny.
Having said that, Android Community readers can still expect plenty more HTC One (M8) and Samsung Galaxy S5 coverage in the coming weeks.
