The good figures of the Samsung Galaxy Note sales This has been excellent news for the Korean company, without a doubt. But it's also a welcome addition to other manufacturers, who are already seriously considering launching devices considered "phablets," which are those with a 5-inch or larger screen. HTC is an example of this.
But other companies aren't thinking about it, and already have models on the market with this premise. LG is the clearest example, since it has had a model called Optimus Vu for some time, of which its evolution, Optimus Vu 2, has just been announced. This is designed to compete with the Galaxy Note 2, the device that Samsung recently presented and of which expects to sell more than 15 million units.
For this reason, so that you know what the differences are between both “phablets”, we are going to carry out a comparative with the data we know about both in two installments. This way, if you're considering purchasing a device from this product range, you'll be able to clearly determine which model is most interesting to you.
Quick overview of each phablet
- Samsung Galaxy Note 2: panels Super AMOLED de 5,5 inches with format 16:9 and resolution 1.280 x 720; protective glass Gorilla Glass 2; S Pen with physical button and specific software (S Note and functions such as Smart Stay, Smart Rotate o S-Voice); chipset Exynos 4412 quad core to 1,6 GHz and GPU Mali-400MP; 2 GB of RAM; storage options 16 / 32 / 64 GB expandable by microSD up to 64 GB; battery of 3.100 mAh; variants with LTE Cat. 3 (model N7105) and with GLONASS for positioning; full connectivity with Wi-Fi a/b/g/n dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0, MHL y USB OTG and advanced sensors such as barometer.
- LG Optimus Vu 2: panels IPS LCD de 5 inches format 4:3 with resolution 1.024 x 768; stylus Rubberdium Pen with improved accuracy; chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Plus (MSM8960) two-core Krait at 1,5 GHz with GPU Adreno 225; 2 GB of RAM; internal storage of 16 GB expandable by microSD up to 32 GB; battery of 2.150 mAh; versions with LTE and support Volta; connectivity with Wi-Fi a/b/g/n dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0 y MHL.
Both models share a solid foundation with 2 GB of RAM, rear cameras of 8 megapixels with recording 1080p and a proposal clearly oriented towards the productivity thanks to the use of a stylus. From here, the key differences in experience are marked by the Screen Format, raw power and the software ecosystem that accompanies each stylus.
Screen format, the first big difference
In this first delivery In the comparison, we'll be reviewing aspects such as the display, design, storage, and software. For the second installment, which will be released later this morning, we'll be evaluating the SoC, RAM, and other technical details.
The screen is an essential element in any modern phone, and even more so in models with panels of 5 inches or more and on which you can write freehand. The first major difference between the two models is the format, since the Galaxy Note 2 uses one of 16:9 and Optimus Vu 2 of 4:3. For this reason, the design of the second one is so square (saving the distances, similar to that of the old tube televisions). It is an interesting option, which helps a lot when it comes to surfing the Internet due to its width, but in games it feels like something is missing. The Samsung model continues the current trend toward "widescreen" format, so there are no major differences in this regard.
Size matters, whatever they say. Galaxy Note 2 has a screen of 5,5 inches, one of the largest ever seen on a mobile device that is not considered a tablet. And, in addition, its quality is excellent (something that we could see in Android Help first hand in Berlin). This type SuperAMOLED and allows a resolution of X (with a density of 267 pixels per inch). In addition, it is protected with Gorilla Glass 2, making it a simply exceptional component.
Optimus Vu 2 has an LCD panel HD-IPS de 5 inches with a resolution of X (density of 256 dpi). Nothing is known about its possible protection. It's a good screen, without a doubt, but in a direct comparison, just looking at the pixel density, which is already indicative of definition, we don't think the LG model will be able to beat the Samsung one.
Beyond the resolution, there are nuances to take into account: the panel/body ratio is around 68% In both, 24-bit color offers 16,7 million colors and the multi-touch response is happens. By its nature, the Note 2's AMOLED tends to offer deeper blacks and high contrasts, while the Vu 2's IPS usually shines viewing angles spacious and a more colorful neutral, which makes it easier for some users to edit documents or read for long periods.
Of course, both models are fully capable of reproductions in High Definition at 1080p, so in this section there is no problem with either of these two “phablets”.
Samsung Galaxy Note 2: 2 points
LG Optimus Vu 2: 1 point
Design and stylus
Regarding the lines of these two devices, we won't go into much detail, since there are colors for every taste. But it is true that Optimus Vu 2 offers a squared which, at the very least, sets it apart from any other model on the market today. Therefore, it's attractive because it's different.
Weight and dimensions are an interesting section, but not essential in phablets, since the user who buys it assumes that it will be large. In any case, in the thickness it is possible to establish differentiations in the good work of designers. Surprisingly, both models are equally fine: 9,4 mm, so they are very well prepared. However, Optimus Vu 2 has an advantage when it comes to weight, as 159 grams it is not enough for a device of this type. Galaxy Note 2 weighs 183 grams and, although it has a 0,5-inch screen more, it is clearly inferior here.
If we go into detail, the Note 2 measures 151,1 x 80,5 x 9,4 mm, while the Vu 2 stays in 132,2 x 85,6 x 9,4 mmThe difference in width of the LG gives it a squarer footprint which may be more comfortable for freehand writing or reading columns, but less practical to handle with one hand. Both employ microSIM and lack IP certification against water or dust.
The stylus is one of the great differences of these “phablets”, since with them you can write freehand on your screen. The one with the Samsung model, called S Pen, is a paradigm of current technology. The combination with the panel is perfect and, in addition, it includes a function button which makes it extremely useful. Additionally, Galaxy Note 2 includes different applications, such as S Notes, which are specifically designed to be combined with the S Pen, so the user experience is unmatched.
Beyond taking notes, the Note 2 software environment adds functions such as eye detection (Smart Stay), smart rotation (Smart Rotate) or voice commands natural with S-Voice, which enrich daily use and reinforce its productive profile. The support of USB OTG It also allows you to connect peripherals and memories for fast transfers.
Optimus Vu 2 has its own stylus, called Rubberdium Pen. Has improved its precision, but it doesn't have all the features and apps that the Samsung model has. It's useful and efficient, but it's no match for the S Pen.
Samsung Galaxy Note 2: 1 point
LG Optimus Vu 2: 1 point
Storage and operating system
One of the great novelties that were presented with Galaxy Note 2 was the inclusion of 2 GB of RAM. This was a success, since when working with a freehand introduction, for multitasking to work properly, this increased capacity was necessary. Well, Optimus Vu 2 also has 2 GB of RAM, so it seems that this amount has become a standard in the range of "phablets".
Regarding the possibilities of data storage, everything indicates that the model of LG will be sold with a single option: 16 GB, with the possibility of increasing this by means of a card microSD of a maximum of 32 GB. Samsung offers three options, 16 / 23 / 64 GB, and the option to use cards up to 64 GB. So, considering that this option will allow you to be flexible with pricing, the Galaxy Note 2 seems more complete here.
As far as the operating system is concerned, this is where we find one of the big differences. Optimus Vu 2 includes Android 4.0.4 (with the possibility of being updated to Jelly Bean confirmed by LG). Not bad, as it is the norm nowadays. But Galaxy Note 2 has Android 4.1 from the outset, and its landing is expected in early October in Europe, so it is superior in this regard and speaks highly of Samsung's efforts in terms of having the phablet fully updated.
In addition to the version, customization also counts. Samsung accompanies its phablet with TouchWiz, an interface with shortcuts and tools that take advantage of the Large Format and the S Pen. LG, for its part, adds its own set of apps for notes and drawing with the Rubberdium Pen, as well as connectivity utilities, although it does not reach the same depth in integration.
Samsung Galaxy Note 2: 3 points
LG Optimus Vu 2: 1 point
Cameras and multimedia
Both the Galaxy Note 2 and the Optimus Vu 2 have a rear camera of 8 Mpx (3264 x 2448) with autofocus and recording Full HD 1080p a 30 fps. Common functions include: geotagging, face detection and software stabilization. The Note 2 adds the touch focus and, in some modalities, the simultaneous capture photo and video. The flash is LED in both.
On the front, Samsung equips a sensor of 1,9 Mpx with good response for video calls, while LG bets on 1,3 Mpx, enough for calls and quick notes with the stylus. In terms of sound, both play formats such as MP3, WAV o FLAC, and the Note 2 expands support to AC3; there is no shortage of them in video MP4 y H.264, with the Note 2 adding compatibility with DivX y XviD. Regarding FM radio, there are variants and markets where it is available in both of them (With RDS), so it is advisable to check the specific unit.
Connectivity and networks
Communication is a key point in these large formats. The Galaxy Note 2, in its international version with mobile data, reaches speeds HSDPA Up to 21 Mbps and, in the version with LTE (N7105), incorporates LTE Cat. 3 with theoretical rates of 100 / 50 Mbps (download/upload). In addition to LTE, the Optimus Vu 2 also features support for Volta in supported markets, enabling higher-quality voice calls over the 4G network.
Both agree on Dual-band Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct and option of resort of choice., plus Bluetooth 4.0 A2DP, LE y EDR (depending on version). Short-range connectivity is rounded off with NFC, useful for payments or pairings. In positioning, the Note 2 adds GLONASS along with A-GPS, improving fixation and precision in navigation.
In the physical section, both resort to micro USB support MHL for video output; the Galaxy adds USB OTG, allowing you to connect flash drives and peripherals. Motion sensors include accelerometer, gyroscope, compass y proximity, with barometer additional on the Note 2. In terms of safety, Samsung declares approximate SAR values of 0,23 W / kg (head) and 0,95 W / kg (body), with lower figures for European regulations (head around 0,17 W / kg).
Battery and autonomy
The LG Optimus Vu 2, for its part, integrates a battery of 2.150 mAh. While it is sufficient for a moderate day of mixed use (browsing, messaging and multimedia), in demanding scenarios (high brightness screen, LTE or games) may require load at the end of the day before its rival. Here the Note 2 emerges as the most suitable option for those who prioritize autonomy above all.
Performance and internal hardware
Although we will go into more detail in the second installment, it is worth mentioning that the Galaxy Note 2 is equipped with a Exynos 4412 de quad core a 1,6 GHz with GPU Mali-400MP, while the Optimus Vu 2 opts for a Snapdragon S4 Plus (MSM8960) de two Krait cores a 1,5 GHz with GPU Adreno 225. In synthetic tests of graphics y CPU (3DMark or GFXBench), the Note 2's extra muscle tends to take over, especially in tasks with parallelization, video editing or gaming. That doesn't mean the Vu 2 doesn't shine for its fluency overall thanks to Krait’s good IPC and contained thermal control.
Both have 2 GB of RAM, a key value for the multitask real, with several apps in the background or notes with the stylus without unexpected closures. In storage, the advantage of the Note 2 is clear, offering up to 64 GB internal and cards up to 64 GB, while the Vu 2 is based on 16 GB and admits microSD Up to 32 GB. If you plan to carry large libraries of video o The music, that flexibility can be decisive.
Models, colors and availability
Samsung markets its phablet in multiple references: GT-N7100 (3G) GT-N7105 (LTE) and regional variants such as SHV-E250 o SGH-I317MIn colors, the catalog covers Titanium Gray, Marble White, Amber Brown, Ruby Wine, Pink y Blue, among others, making it easy to find a finish to suit every taste. In the final stretch of its commercial cycle, it reached prices guidance very competitive in certain markets.
The LG Optimus Vu 2 is offered with a stand LTE in various regions and, as we have pointed out, with the option of Volta where operators enable it. Its dimensions (132,2 x 85,6 x 9,4 mm) and weight (159 g) make it more compact in height than its rival, although more widthThe choice of this format and sober colors fits with its approach to productivity and reading.
Partial result
The result, for now in the absence of the second installment of the comparison, is pro Galaxy Note 2 By a score of 6 points to 3. For now, it's clear that Samsung has done an excellent job with its phablet, and everything indicates it will continue to reign supreme. However, LG has some good devices and seems quite capable.
With the expanded data, the balance leans towards the Note 2 for its bigger screen With Gorilla Glass 2, the S Pen ecosystem and hardware quad-core with a larger battery capacity; the Optimus Vu 2, however, defends its position with a 4 format: 3 very comfortable to read and write, Volta in compatible markets and a design light that can win over those who prioritize intensive use of navigation and notes.
