Two of the best Android smartphones out there are the Google-branded LG Nexus 4 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 2. While Christmas shopping time is almost over, there'll be plenty of holiday deals running into the new year, so here's a look at these two smartphones side by side in case you're deciding between them.
There are a couple things that need to be said about the Nexus 4 and Galaxy Note 2 before looking at their specs. First off, they offer two completely different experiences. The Galaxy Note 2 comes with a massive 5.55-inch screen and an electronic stylus, making it feel more like a digital notepad at certain times. The Nexus 4, on the other hand, comes unlocked and contract free for the same price as the Galaxy Note 2, and should be running the latest version of Android earlier than almost every other handset on the market.
Google Nexus 4
The Google Nexus 4 comes equipped with a 4.7-inch display, 1.5GHz quad-core processor, 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, and a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera. The Nexus 4 currently runs Android 4.2, and is first in line to receive the next upgrade from Google. Sadly, the Nexus 4 lacks LTE support, although it can work in certain areas with a simple software tweak.
The 8GB variant of the Nexus 4 costs $300 from Google Play, and the 16GB model runs $350, although good luck getting one at that price. Google Play is currently sold out, and so is T-Mobile, meaning the only places to find the Nexus 4 are third-party retailers who sometimes charge double Google's price.
Samsung Galaxy Note 2
A 1.6GHz quad-core processor, 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, 1.9-megapixel front-facing camera, and LTE support help make the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 one of the most powerful handsets available. The Galaxy Note 2 comes with Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean, although Samsung should be releasing a Android 4.1.2 update in the coming months. The Galaxy Note 2 starts around $300 for the 16GB variant from a carrier with a two-year contract. A quick and prudent search through third-party retailers such as Amazon Wireless, however, can turn up deals that knock up to $200 off the price tag.
If you're insistent on LTE support, then the Galaxy Note 2 is a clear winner between the two. But keep in mind that the Galaxy Note 2 is an incredibly large smartphone, and doesn't offer the unlocked capabilities of the Nexus 4 at such an affordable price. As usual, before making any decisions, try and get a feel for the two handsets in a retail store. Either way, you won't go wrong.
Which one these two handsets appeals to you more and why? Let us know in the comments below.
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