More and more die-hard apple fans are making the switch to android smart phones. My phone is several years old, and it hasn’t been working properly since the last IOS update. I’ve been due for an upgrade, but I really wanted to make sure I considered all types of phones to see which one is right for me. The first on my list to try was the Samsung Galaxy Note 3, which runs on the super fast Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network.
My first impression was that this phone was very large, maybe even too big. It features a 5.7-inch full HD display. After using it for a few weeks, it doesn’t feel so big anymore. I guess I became accustomed to the nice large display, and I loved being able to easily read books right on my phone without having to squint. You could say it’s a cross between a phone and a tablet in terms of size but it’s still very thin and lightweight. I was relieved that it still fit into my back pocket, because I always like to have my phone easily within reach.
This phone features a magazine-style layout so that you can place all of the apps and tools that you use daily in a convenient place for quick access. For me, those apps are Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, text messages and my website. I love the talk to text feature and love how the phone offers word suggestions as a shortcut.
Because I use a mac, it was not easy figuring out how to download photos and videos. I discovered the Android File Transfer app which made downloading a breeze. Just don’t expect automatic download to your mac, because it won’t happen. The other adjustment for me was the app download process. Instead of the Apple App Store, I realized that I can now only purchase apps through Amazon and Google Play.
For me, the best feature on this phone is the camera. I’m always taking photos, and the Galaxy Note 3 takes beautiful, bright photos. I found myself using this phone in place of my DSLR for food photography for my blog, family photos and images detailing our travels. I love the double camera feature which allows you take a selfie and a photo at the same time as seen above – so you can not only capture your view but also yourself.
This is an amazing phone and I wish it were mine to keep. The full price on the Galaxy Note 3 is $699.99, and Verizon Wireless is currently offering it for $149.99 with a 2-year aggreement. I’m a big fan of Samsung products, but in the end I think I’d like a phone that’s slightly smaller. The next phone I’ll be looking at is the Galaxy S5. More on that later!
We received a loaner for the purpose of this review. No other compensation was received.
I am such an apple product girl! I tried using my mom’s Samsung today and I was so lost! It has a lot of awesome features- but I am behind the learning curve!
We’ve had both brands in our household. Love both the iphone and android.
The way it can take that dual photo is really cool. I think that would be my fave part, but I like the stylus too!