Galaxy S II still worth it? - Galaxy S II Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

So here's the thing.. I would like the Galaxy S III of course, but it has it's obvious faults, and without a scheduled upgrade from my provider I just don't think it's worth the 700+ dollars I would have to shell out.. So my thought was to buy a used Galaxy S II for around 200-300$ to tide me over until either HTC or Samsung release near perfect devices, or until the next Nexus whenever that is, do you think this would be worth it? Is development slowing down or staying the same and is 200-300$ worth it until and would it last until the next nexus or HTC/Samsung flagship?
Thanks in advanced for your opinions

Of course, S2 is still a great phone.
I will never switch for the S3, not that S3 is not better, just the S2 does everyting that S3 does..maybe S4 will give me a reason to switch.
im the kind of person that only switches cellphone or any other electronics when its really worth it, a big step ahead, or else I don´t think its worth it.

S4 will have 14 nm chipset
http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/07/samsung-20nm-14nm-chip-production/
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium

syndragon said:
Of course, S2 is still a great phone.
I will never switch for the S3, not that S3 is not better, just the S2 does everyting that S3 does..maybe S4 will give me a reason to switch.
im the kind of person that only switches cellphone or any other electronics when its really worth it, a big step ahead, or else I don´t think its worth it.
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Click to collapse
Well I've got the Desire Z right now so it would be a pretty big jump.. but yeah I'm thinking if I can get this phone for cheap at least it will be a good jump and a nice holder until my carrier gives me a free upgrade next year ?
hikarugo said:
S4 will have 14 nm chipset
http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/07/samsung-20nm-14nm-chip-production/
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
Dam that's amazing.. The only thing is I need the rest of it to be worth it too :S The problem with the S3 are the pentile (not a BIG deal obviously, don't care that much) the pink problem, the blacks problem, the screen being easily cracked, etc :/ maybe the S4 will blow me away
I also want a lot of dev community since for some reason the Desire Z had a TON and it would be weird not having it and like stupid amounts of ROMs

S2 is still a strong phone. No other devices offer significant improvements over what it does.

I thinks that there's not so much difference between Galaxy SII and SIII. The big difference to me is the design of the phone. Hardware of SII is actually very strong.

I don't know if the S3 has better battery life... but in other subjects S2 is not that far from S3... And the price now is very accessible as well...

SII is still great! We have a official ics which sucks but cm9 is pretty sick and stable for daily use. Oh and there are some really great roms and kernels out there.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA

syndragon said:
Of course, S2 is still a great phone.
I will never switch for the S3, not that S3 is not better, just the S2 does everyting that S3 does..maybe S4 will give me a reason to switch.
im the kind of person that only switches cellphone or any other electronics when its really worth it, a big step ahead, or else I don´t think its worth it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1.I upgraded from x10 as s2 was worth it.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2

You're looking to do exactly what I'm in the middle of doing. About 3 or 4 months ago I bought a relatively new SGSII for $300 due to my Nokia N97 breaking down about half way through my contract. It is an amazing phone and my first which is running Android. I have done lots of mods and flashed lots of roms and have really enjoyed it. At the end of the year my contract expires so the SGSII is going to my fiancée and I am going to upgrade to an SGSIII or a Galaxy Note II or the next Nexus. The SGSII is definitely a great phone with lots of support by all the great themers, modders and rom builders on XDA. Definitely recommend it.

Well I guess it really depends on the use you make of your phone.
SGS II is an excellent device on many aspects, but if you plan on playing the most recent games, for instance, I'd say the SGS III's quad-core will be more... "comfortable"?
As far as I'm concerned, I'll stick with my SGS I as long as possible, the engagement with my carrier goes to Feb 2013... Maybe SGS IV will be announced by then. Argh!!

IF you are out budget the S II is still a strong phone. Another advantage if you choose S II over other phone is community. S II has the biggest market in all Android phones and of course S II / Samsung 3rd party developers are just awesome!

noneabove said:
Well I've got the Desire Z right now so it would be a pretty big jump.. but yeah I'm thinking if I can get this phone for cheap at least it will be a good jump and a nice holder until my carrier gives me a free upgrade next year ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, then its up to you, either S2 and S3 will be a big jump.
So only you know if the aspects that make S3 slightly better than S2 its worth the extra money.

IMO S2 is the best phone out there. Yes, S3 and One X are more powerful, but are the worth 600€? S2 can do exactly all the same things as those two, play HD games like Modern Combat 3 and NOVA 3 without any notable lag!
Currently, I believe S2 has the biggest community in XDA(well, it's separated to many "divisions" here, due to many different models[US Carrier specific and i9100G], but cause it's so popular, why wouldn't it be good?)
Yes, S2 is worth it. Here, it costs two times less than an S3.

last week i played with the SGS3 and the SGS2 ( a updated one ( ICS ) of a friend )
i did not notice any BIG differents between the 2 phone's
so i got myself a SGS2 and saved me 300 euro's.

ArmorD said:
IMO S2 is the best phone out there. Yes, S3 and One X are more powerful, but are the worth 600€? S2 can do exactly all the same things as those two, play HD games like Modern Combat 3 and NOVA 3 without any notable lag!
Currently, I believe S2 has the biggest community in XDA(well, it's separated to many "divisions" here, due to many different models[US Carrier specific and i9100G], but cause it's so popular, why wouldn't it be good?)
Yes, S2 is worth it. Here, it costs two times less than an S3.
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Click to collapse
I agree. The s2 has the best xda family in my opinion. Just look at rr or Rootbox thread. And it is probably going to not be outdated for another year or two
Sent from my GT-P7510 using xda premium

Same here buddy...
I wont switch to galaxy s3 from galaxy s2...
But if anyone want to buy a new phone its obvious if u can spend money and get galaxy s3,then buy that otherwise S2 is still a good phone sold more than 28million..
I think the development wont stop just because of S3..
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA

Thanks for the advice guys! I will definitely be monitoring kijiji closely looking for one that's at least less than 300$ and maybe even less than 250$! Hope I find one soon!

No. Its display has low life. When people asked Samsung why did they change display in SGS3, they said that its because the samoled+ has low life and faster degradation of image quality.
For instance, some phones already had yellow tint on 30% brightness. Some have started to develop it now.
its display is great. But battery life is poor. With one charge, you will hardly be able to use (total hours of usage) it more than 8 hours given battery is new.
samoled+ is marvelous display but you will find running your phone at low brightness due to battery concerns. Whats use of such a phone then?
No wonder SGS3 has a different display.

Stock rom gave me bs battery life with my usage about 5-6 hrs but go custom with UV and UC i get 8-10 hrs! Use a little less and i get 14 hrs and im using the 1650 mh batt

Related

[Q] Good or Bad?

Well hello bigger forums I came from the Ace family and I have plans on buying SII. I've heard good rumours about the phone and I've seen lots of interesting roms for it too (plus it's on main forum XD)
My options are HTC One X, GNote or SII and SII is quite leading in my eyes ATM.
Last question is, what is the price of SII in the US WITHOUT the contract?
Thanks for the responses guys, hope to see you soon
S24Lyfe
it depends on whether you're looking for an unlocked phone (being able to use any network) or if you wish to purchase it outright from your current service provider.
Unlocked it's about $500-600, and prices will range depending on your carrier if you want to go for option number 2.
I personally own the S2 and I can honestly say I love this phone.
Took less than 5 minutes to root, plenty (and I mean PLENTY) of custom roms being developed for it, and the hardware itself is just great (it outperforms the iPhone 4s) - I highly recommend it.
Just my two cents.
Doo:DAce said:
Well hello bigger forums I came from the Ace family and I have plans on buying SII. I've heard good rumours about the phone and I've seen lots of interesting roms for it too (plus it's on main forum XD)
My options are HTC One X, GNote or SII and SII is quite leading in my eyes ATM.
Last question is, what is the price of SII in the US WITHOUT the contract?
Thanks for the responses guys, hope to see you soon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
S2 is still a beast when compared to other mobiles you have mentioned with the exception of HD screen. If you like bigger screens and feel compact to use it go for note, else s2 with its amoled is what you need
Thanks for the opinion guys. Im planning to buy it directly from a samsung store so yeah network unlocked. Can it run tegra games without chainfire3D? or simply does it have a tegra chip in it?
Sent from my GT-S5830 using XDA
Atm i suggest u wait cause sammy is abt to release new phones and so will otha companies too and at tht time if u really feel to buy buy sgs2 ,may b ull get it for cheap...its jus a matter of dayz....cheeerz
rocky23 said:
Atm i suggest u wait cause sammy is abt to release new phones and so will otha companies too and at tht time if u really feel to buy buy sgs2 ,may b ull get it for cheap...its jus a matter of dayz....cheeerz
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Click to collapse
I'll be going next week so I need to make decisions now.
SGS2 is still a good phone. I had it for just over 10 months and loved it.
Got a HOX now and love that just as much. HOX has the HD screen which is lovely. SLCD2 vs AMOLED. Amoled has better blacks and such but I like the SLCD2 as well. Whites are better and not prone to screen burns.
Hardware wise both are beasts. Dual Core vs Quad Teg 3. DC is still fast enough not enough optimising quad at the moment. With TEG3 you get the range of Nvidia games without the need for Chainfire.
Design wise HOX wins, it's sexy and sleek but the SGS2 is lighter and thinner. Both feel good in the hand.
UI wise, Sense wins for me personally, but TouchWiz is not as bad it has it's own feature set.
If you want the cheaper device go for the SGS2 as price is decent. You'll be happy with any of your choices. The Galaxy range of devices are far easier to root with their unlocked bootloaders if you want to go with custom roms and such and development is very active with HOX it will get active when more devs have it. I'd still rate the Note over the SGS2 as it's a beast, if you can handle the size then definitely get the note.
I agree, the note is excellent.
Sent from my electronic pocket computer using voodoo magick
Funkajunk said:
I agree, the note is excellent.
Sent from my electronic pocket computer using voodoo magick
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Click to collapse
but it's really big which I don't find really attractive :/

What made you pick the S3 over the competition?

Hey guys/gals,
I'm literally counting the days til my upgrade, however with phones like the One X and a few others which i can't think of off the top of my head. Rather than asking VS. questions which will be answered by biased views or perhaps answers which don't answer the why i'll ask it like this.
What was the feature that made you buy the phone over the other phones on the market, what is your favourite feature which made the phone a defo puchase?
Thanks to all that answer this for me.
Mainly the processor, big ass screen and clearly the brand Samsung. HTC are good but from past experience I know that what they seem to offer is not always what they actually have to offer. Other phones are just out of the question, like nokia pure view since I would rather buy a camera than buy that phone (though I already have a DSLR so I don't need one). And to be honest I normally pick phones right away and then find everything there is to know about them. I just told myself that now is the time and this is the phone I want to buy.
what is your favourite feature which made the phone a defo puchase?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Huge community with lots of ROM's and customizations
- Large AMOLED screen (only had good experiences so far)
- Cool addon features such as Smart Stay
- Perfect USB OTG support
- Large battery
- Samsung-branded. (No issue with their devices so far)
- Powerful 4core SoC
Thanks for the input so far guys, its not a case I'm doubting the s3 but I'll probably get lumbered with a 24month contract and I don't want to miss out on another phone due to blindly buying the s3
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
If I had a Galaxy Nexus as your signature suggests I would have skipped the S3, I don't think the incremental benefits merit a 24 month tie in. Or you could upgrade now and when the next gen handsets are released your S3 and GN should raise enough to buy whatever tickles your fancy.
For me it was the SD card slot and removable battery. Also I was concerned about all of the screen scratch talk with the one X.
On AT&T, the One X looks to be the better performer but couldn't get past the issues above.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
diablous said:
Thanks for the input so far guys, its not a case I'm doubting the s3 but I'll probably get lumbered with a 24month contract and I don't want to miss out on another phone due to blindly buying the s3
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Contract ????? £500 PAYG unbranded CPW .
jje
Because the One X is inexcuseably flawed with the lack of replaceable battery and memory slot and traditionally rubbish battery life, and even though the S3 is also flawed most of it is just software problems that can be bodged up after the fact.
SIII doesn't have any serious competition imho. It is the best phone in the market at the moment hands down. If only my other decisions in life are that easy
diablous said:
Hey guys/gals,
I'm literally counting the days til my upgrade, however with phones like the One X and a few others which i can't think of off the top of my head. Rather than asking VS. questions which will be answered by biased views or perhaps answers which don't answer the why i'll ask it like this.
What was the feature that made you buy the phone over the other phones on the market, what is your favourite feature which made the phone a defo puchase?
Thanks to all that answer this for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I chose this phone because it is the successor of the previous best android device, the Samsung galaxy s 2. Things could only improve with the galaxy s 3.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Frostfree said:
If I had a Galaxy Nexus as your signature suggests I would have skipped the S3, I don't think the incremental benefits merit a 24 month tie in. Or you could upgrade now and when the next gen handsets are released your S3 and GN should raise enough to buy whatever tickles your fancy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally agree. Especially the fact that the nexus is about to get jelly bean, it's gonna be a brand new phone. Yes the S3 is the best phone out right now ( in my opinion) but the nexus is also fantastic and I miss that phone sometimes.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
To be honest I believe that there soon won't be a device (including Samsung) that will be let's say 2 or 3 times faster, better, etc. that the SIII. Quad core processors came out now so next year probably they will continue to distribute them. Plus custom roms or the SIII will get better, these guys at xda do a better job than any company out there, they are users that make upgrades for users and know what we exactly need. Software is never an issue it can always be upgraded, modified unlike hardware that is something that is hard to replace in a phone. So when I look for a phone I mainly look at the hardware, for the hidden potential of the phone. And to be honest Samsung SIII is the fastest phone currently on the market and we all know well that it has the most juice in it.
barondebxl said:
I totally agree. Especially the fact that the nexus is about to get jelly bean, it's gonna be a brand new phone. Yes the S3 is the best phone out right now ( in my opinion) but the nexus is also fantastic and I miss that phone sometimes.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Nexus always gets the latest OS first but as soon as the Galaxy S's get upgraded you just get stuck with a phone that's always worse than the equivalent Galaxy S, and I'd never buy a phone just to get an OS a few months early because I'd quickly realise the mistake I made.
barondebxl said:
I totally agree. Especially the fact that the nexus is about to get jelly bean, it's gonna be a brand new phone. Yes the S3 is the best phone out right now ( in my opinion) but the nexus is also fantastic and I miss that phone sometimes.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1. If you have a Nexus already, I agree that it will feel like a new phone with JellyBean on it.
I am still getting the S3 though. I will be new to Android so will have a bit of learning to do, and JellyBean is supposed to be coming to the S3 in Q4, so by then I'll be ready for it and I think it will make the S3 super-super-swishy (from the mere super-swishy it is now).
For me, replaceable batteries & memory cards are a must, so that basically blew many other phones out of the picture. Good camera, USB OTG, MHL-ing to use it as a games console, proper HD screen, good battery - all of these things sold it too me.
No iThings for me. I don't want to get tied into any restrictive iContract with iEULA, not shackled to iTunes, titchy screen, etc etc.
I was happy with my Windows HTC HD2 (before I bricked it). Hoping buying a Samsung flagship model on Android (with the massive user group that's gathering behind it and seemingly fast updates OTA from Sammy) will mean this phone will function well out of the box, and function amazeballs with a few custom tweaks & mods.
Hopefully I will get my UK blue this week :cyclops::victory:
Screen size and speed
Already running Jellybean, but like people have said you can change Software you can't change hardware and one thing i do miss is the S2 camera I had, so the Samera on the S3 is one of my big reasons.
Thanks to everyone who has posted so far.
What competition?
My last phone was an HTC Desire, and since I was displeased with the HTC Sense UI, I just decided that my next phone would be a Samsung. And the S III just happened to be the best phone out there.
hox has too weak battery in my case, so its a no-competition thing actually
next close to perfect phone is still good old i9000
The hype about it - I figured that with all the talk there would be loads of custom roms developed for the phone. I signed up for a two year contract and I wanted a phone that could last two years which this should do well with that processor. Had a Nexus S before and considered buying a Galaxy Nexus, but 16GB internal and no option for external SD just didn't appeal to me.

[Q] About the statement of happines of SGS2 Users!

Hello,
So i am upgrading from SGmini to SGS2
And i was thinking firstly to ask some experienced users with SGS
I could buy the SGS3 but i dont really like that phone (don't know why, but it didnt feel really good in my hand )
So what does the users that own SGS2 think of their phone?
Does it play the newly released games? like some RPG games?
Is it really fast even after installing over 10+ apps/games?
Whats the quality of recording/capturing?
At least just tell me it is WORTH to buy?
sorry for bumping many questions
P.S after i get my phone i should ask a very STEP BY STEP what to do with the phone to work faster!
The SGS2 is still a good smartphone (I'm happy with it right now), but if I were you, I'd go for the SGS3: once you get used to it it's an awesome device, trust me.
eKd said:
Hello,
So i am upgrading from SGmini to SGS2
And i was thinking firstly to ask some experienced users with SGS
I could buy the SGS3 but i dont really like that phone (don't know why, but it didnt feel really good in my hand )
So what does the users that own SGS2 think of their phone?
Does it play the newly released games? like some RPG games?
Is it really fast even after installing over 10+ apps/games?
Whats the quality of recording/capturing?
At least just tell me it is WORTH to buy?
sorry for bumping many questions
P.S after i get my phone i should ask a very STEP BY STEP what to do with the phone to work faster!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Galaxy S2 is still a very capable phone. it can perform without any disappointment with all those things you listed.
I'll advise you to go for the S3 but If the size is a problem, then you can wait for S3 mini (Rumours say it will the same Galaxy S3 in a smaller shell).
If size is not the problem, then you can also consider Note II.
eKd said:
Hello,
So i am upgrading from SGmini to SGS2
And i was thinking firstly to ask some experienced users with SGS
I could buy the SGS3 but i dont really like that phone (don't know why, but it didnt feel really good in my hand )
So what does the users that own SGS2 think of their phone?
Does it play the newly released games? like some RPG games?
Is it really fast even after installing over 10+ apps/games?
Whats the quality of recording/capturing?
At least just tell me it is WORTH to buy?
sorry for bumping many questions
P.S after i get my phone i should ask a very STEP BY STEP what to do with the phone to work faster!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which one do you want to buy? the Normal I9100 or the I9100G? If you want to buy the I9100 then there will be developing problems whenever a new Android version will come out. Just look at the CM10 thread. The Exynos processor of the I9100 is a huge pain in the ass and Android 4.1.1 is still not working on the I9100 as it should. If you want to upgrade to the newest Android version really quick then buy the I9100G version. It will get quick updates through the community because the processor is from Texas Instruments (Omap) and is developer friendly.
The normal I9100 is still a great phone in my opinion. ICS works very well with it. I`ve been using it for months without any problems.
One question though, have you considered buying a Galaxy Nexus? You would get updates very fast since they would come from Google directly.
im gonna put this simply, galaxy s2 is the best phone I've ever owned! fast,reliable and never bored of it!
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
jr866gooner said:
im gonna put this simply, galaxy s2 is the best phone I've ever owned! fast,reliable and never bored of it!
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
This is hands down the best phone I have ever owned as well! Its damn fast, it has a beautiful screen and it has a killer camera. What more would you want in a phone? Sure the GS3 is faster and bigger but having this baby doesn't feel like a major step down from the S3. Don't get me wrong, I would love to have an S3 but I'm not in a rush at all to get it. I don't know why but I really love the shape and look of the S2.
Also one interesting point to note is that for some reason the S2 is a lot tougher than the S3 when compared in drop tests (despite the Gorilla Glass 2 on the S3.) Google it and see for yourself on youtube (helpful if you have butter fingers, but I treasure my S2 like a new born child so thankfully I have never personally dropped mine)
i second, s3 is more sophisticated phone. if you drop it then you have high risk of damage as compared to s2.
but on the other side its loaded with some very good feature and will keep on getting future os updates whereas s2 will only get its last update.
well i would advise to go with s3 if its only the size which is holding you else without any further thinking go for s2
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda app-developers app
well well, I really like the SGS2 and I know that SGS3 has really much new features but the size, the form is that i dont like. Take a look at Note2 its a good phone and fast but its tooooo big like the SGS3.
So as i see everyone loves the SGS2 and it still run the latest games!!
So I will wait till some new replys and suggestions!
NanoSurfer said:
+1
This is hands down the best phone I have ever owned as well! Its damn fast, it has a beautiful screen and it has a killer camera. What more would you want in a phone? Sure the GS3 is faster and bigger but having this baby doesn't feel like a major step down from the S3. Don't get me wrong, I would love to have an S3 but I'm not in a rush at all to get it. I don't know why but I really love the shape and look of the S2.
Also one interesting point to note is that for some reason the S2 is a lot tougher than the S3 when compared in drop tests (despite the Gorilla Glass 2 on the S3.) Google it and see for yourself on youtube (helpful if you have butter fingers, but I treasure my S2 like a new born child so thankfully I have never personally dropped mine)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same here, well i haven't dropped my phone out of my casemate tough case! only once in the case but not one mark appeared!
i did around 2 to 3 months of research before getting this phone waiting patiently watching youtube video reviews etc by samjpullen (how sad that i remember the name! ) but i was serious about choosing this phone after all you have it for two years. i will no doubt do the same for my next phone- i hope rumours are true and that a smaller alternative to the s3 will become available- im not concerned though as my upgrade isn't due till next July/August.
i am though trying my hardest to convince my wife to get an s2 for her upgrade in November or December!
people say the s2 is big but not in comparison to others!
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
jr866gooner said:
same here, well i haven't dropped my phone out of my casemate tough case! only once in the case but not one mark appeared!
i did around 2 to 3 months of research before getting this phone waiting patiently watching youtube video reviews etc by samjpullen (how sad that i remember the name! ) but i was serious about choosing this phone after all you have it for two years. i will no doubt do the same for my next phone- i hope rumours are true and that a smaller alternative to the s3 will become available- im not concerned though as my upgrade isn't due till next July/August.
i am though trying my hardest to convince my wife to get an s2 for her upgrade in November or December!
people say the s2 is big but not in comparison to others!
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you think SGS2 is a really good phone for taking pictures and playing movies/games?
Dont bother with "the step by step to make phone faster".
Start searching and learning.......
eKd said:
So you think SGS2 is a really good phone for taking pictures and playing movies/games?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
indeed! I've played gta and currently im playing football manager and its smooth as anything, camera as with all mobiles can be bad in poor light but tbf most situations the camera is great-hd recording as well which is perfect for me as my son is only 8 months old so lots of videos to treasure!
i can honestly say you wouldn't regret getting the s2 but take a look at some videos and see what you think, I've stayed stock up till now but maybe in the new year i may go for a custom Rom and be brave throughout my last 6 months on this contract! lol
if i didn't get the bug and itch to upgrade come upgrade time i could seriously keep this phone as my main driver for longer than the contract is up!
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
jr866gooner said:
indeed! I've played gta and currently im playing football manager and its smooth as anything, camera as with all mobiles can be bad in poor light but tbf the camera is great-hd recording as well which is perfect for me as my son is only 8 months old so lots of videos to treasure!
i can honestly say you wouldn't regret getting the s2 but take a look at some videos and see what not think, I've stayed stock up till now but maybe in the new year i may go for a custom Rom and be brave throughout my last 6 months on this contract! lol
if i didn't get the bug and itch to upgrade come upgrade time i could seriously keep this phone as my main driver for longer than the contract is up!
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Finally, your answer (and all those lovely xda ppl's) made my choice to buy SGS2 as i really love this phone...
Thanks to all
brilliant! i can't speak directly for yourself or other xda ers but this phone was my best decision i made phone wise and im not limited as i said because we can install Roms to aid performance or make a big difference to the look of the Rom! enjoy! post back here what you think please or send a pm to let me know!
if you need tips or tricks also you know where i am! lol
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
jr866gooner said:
brilliant! i can't speak directly for yourself or other xda ers but this phone was my best decision i made phone wise and im not limited as i said because we can install Roms to aid performance or make a big difference to the look of the Rom! enjoy! post back here what you think please or send a pm to let me know!
if you need tips or tricks also you know where i am! lol
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you, Im sure at the end of the month i will buy the SGS2
eKd said:
thank you, Im sure at the end of the month i will buy the SGS2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bro get the S2, I promise you wont be disappointed!
Even if this phone doesn't officially get the next OS update (after JellyBean) I guarantee it will still get it in the form of unofficial ones like CyanogenMod etc. I mean it has a freaking 1.2 Ghz dual core processor! That's almost as fast as my old P4, plus it has a good GPU. It plays every game I have thrown at it perfectly.
It truly is a legend phone and one which set the bar for all other phones! I wouldn't think twice in owning another one.
I love it
I love my Galaxy S2. Perfect screen size for me, slim body, good development team, etc. I really don't think about getting the Galaxy S3 despite its good processor and such, this is because it looks like a fridge and the screen is too big.

[Q] Is the Samsung Galaxy s II I9100 still relevant?

Hey guys,
I'm new to this forum and I'm not sure whether I've posted in the correct section. Feel free to move this post if necessary. Thanks a lot moderators.
I'm currently using a Nokia 6120 Classic. I've decided to finally upgrade to a smartphone and had been eying the Samsung Galaxy SII for quite some time. I am aware that Samsung Galaxy SIV is rumored to be released next week, but I still like the built and design of the SII.
I'm still wondering whether the SII is relevant for the next few years, relevant in terms of software support (Support for future firmwares and apps) and hardware compatibility.
So what do you guys think?
1) Do we really require such massive processing power (quad-core or octa-core) in the future? Or does the dual-core of the SII suffice for at least 3 to 4 years down the road?
2) Should I get the SII (as the prices would have dropped following the release of SIV)? Or should I get the SIV or at least an SIII?
All comments are appreciated. Thanks a lot!!
P.S. I've read through similar topics in this section, but I just need some assurances at a time this close to the release of SIV.
If I'm going to upgrade, it's going to be a note 2.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda app-developers app
I think with the help of custom ROMs we are able to almost smoothly stay up to date for the next few years in the terms of software for the s2. The s2 is still of course a high end device.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda app-developers app
For me, it's the smaller form factor of the S2. I sold my iPhone 4s, but didn't go for the S3 due to the increased size. It didn't feel as comfortable in my hand.
Had this kid at the shops say "nice phone if there wasn't cctv here I'd tax that.! Must still be good. lol
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda app-developers app
Get the SII plus, cheap & will update to 5.0.
Sent from the little guy
Still a great phone. I keep switching back to this phone from my GS3 every few days because I love the form factor and weight. The rectangular shape fits well in my hand... I just can't stand the rounded body of the S3.
And the camera is still awesome. If you're one of the lucky ones with the Sony module then you'll love it even more.
skylarlegend said:
1) Do we really require such massive processing power (quad-core or octa-core) in the future? Or does the dual-core of the SII suffice for at least 3 to 4 years down the road?
2) Should I get the SII (as the prices would have dropped following the release of SIV)? Or should I get the SIV or at least an SIII?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Depends on what you need your phone for. Higher processing power of more cores can come in handy if your into gaming or use memory intensive apps. But remember that higher the processing power, the more it taxes the battery!
I use a GS2. Coupled with custom JB and some tweaking, it feels super fast and smooth even now, and possibly for a year more or two.
2. Get the phone that suits your needs and fits in your budget. S2, S3 and probably S4 are all great phones! :thumbup:
Sent from my SGS II
Thanks for the comments. I'm quite convinced that the SII is still and will still be a really good phone.
I would watch the event this Thursday for the SIV and then decide which phone to buy. Given my budget, I would still consider the SII
Thanks!

Should I buy Galaxy S2?

I had HTC Desire for nearly 3 years, and it is a great phone, but I think it is time to upgrade, because:
- it is annoyingly slow with my regular set of programs installed, even on fastest available roms
- it doesn't have kernel 3.0, and because of that JB roms have shortcomings
- a little bit too small screen for GPS navigation
- really crappy camera
- somewhat short battery life
Some time ago I had a chance to look at Galaxy S2 in person and it looked like a perfect phone (at least for 2 minutes I had it in my hands).
Somewhat bigger screen, more internal storage, kernel 3.0.
I use custom roms, so big development community is important for me. I have been spoiled by Desire as it (still) has a large one.
Galaxy S2 would cost me around 170-200 euro to get it.
Should I take that, or look for something else in this price range?
My requirements:
- larger screen (not necessarily much larger)
- android (duh)
- solid build quality
- large development community
- noticeably faster CPU than Desire (Dual+ core would come in handy)
- microUSB
- good/very good camera
- good battery life
- price up to 200 euro (used)
- would be nice if it had FM transmitter (not receiver) but it is not necessary
- it must by BLACK or therebout
No. Why would you buy a phone that's been out for two yrs ? Get an S3 or S4 if you want a Samsung phone.
Galaxy Nexus may fit your needs..
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
MistahBungle said:
No. Why would you buy a phone that's been out for two yrs ? Get an S3 or S4 if you want a Samsung phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because I don't care how long the phone has been out, but how well it suits my needs.
Plus, S3 and S4 are surely more expensive.
Personally, between S2, S3 and S4, I would recommend the S3. (Although it wouldn't fit the budget, unless there are some offers!)
Mainly because it is relatively newer and you can expect new Android upgrades from Samsung (at least KLP) for it. Samsung has already announced that 4.2.2 will be the last update for S2, according to samfirmware. And with so many (mainly, codeworkx) developers not showing much love for Samsung devices of late, I am sure it would take that much longer to get custom ROMs updates.
If you do decide on S2, it is a really good device!! Great build, great design etc. But I suggest you buy the OMAP variants (i9100G), as it has better support from development community. Owing mainly to TI playing nice compared to Samsung (Exynos).
Several developers are not happy with Samsung's support for Exynos devices and Samsung's lack of support for the dev community of late. For me, this is a major concern.
Why are you advising the guy to get the g variant?.There was almost a riot in your country a year ago when suppliers were giving out g variant models instead of the plain gti9100 model.
If you want then buy a Nexus 7
Nexus has a huge development community and is also in ur price range
Press thanks if helped
arnabbiswasalsodeep said:
If you want then buy a Nexus 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would I buy a tablet when I need a phone?
Samsung Galaxy S2 is still a powerful device even beat some newest devices (of course not high-end ones) but it's still can go well with mid-range devices.
Get S2 or S4.....I (personally) don't like the S3.The big thing is,that S4 hasn't a big developent support,since it's a new phone.Galaxy S2 has still a big support...I still see new ROMs and updates every day or week.And it is fast,no matter what people say...get the setup as in my sig...my phone was never faster.
So S2 looks interesting, but this is what I have been told about regarding its screen:
I also considered s2 but there's one serious setback to it. Namely, the screen is amoled and without pentile matrix.
What's bad about it you ask? pixels that are frequently used lose color and items that you have on screen for most time are somewhat paler than the rest of the screen, and you can see their shadow for the whole time, ppl reported that with all amoled displays and non pentile of s2 is even more susceptible to that. That happens even to devices 3 months old, depending on how heavily they are used I guess. You can google it to see for yourself, just type galaxy s2 amoled burn in. There are also few good YouTube vids showing that. Items that you usually can see are burned in status bar, soft keys from your most used app, keyboard, alarm icon and "fully charged" sign across the screen as during night charging the phone lights up when battery is full and keeps the screen on until you turn it off or unplug it/on some ROMs at least, stock including/.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you guys have any comments on that? Is it that bad and common as it sounds? On my 3 year old Desire I see nothing like it happening.
theunderling said:
Why are you advising the guy to get the g variant?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, if I wasn't clear: Right now I would prefer to use an S3. But if I had a fixed budget and decided on S2, I would by the G variant. -- This is what I meant.
Honestly, I thought those 'riots' were because Samsung decided to slip in the G variant very slyly. No intimation of any sort to the buyers.
I have read about the lower bechmarks on i9100G etc. Any other difference that goes against the i9100G? (Sorry that I am hijacking the thread, just wanted to know)
RAZR maxx
Sent from my XT910 using xda app-developers app
impactor said:
Do you guys have any comments on that? Is it that bad and common as it sounds? On my 3 year old Desire I see nothing like it happening.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been using my S2 for more than two years now. I haven't noticed this burn in. (And, hopefully I don't. )
I tried looking for it right now, and...nope, nothing like it.
deadmetaphor said:
Oh, if I wasn't clear: Right now I would prefer to use an S3. But if I had a fixed budget and decided on S2, I would by the G variant. -- This is what I meant.
Honestly, I thought those 'riots' were because Samsung decided to slip in the G variant very slyly. No intimation of any sort to the buyers.
I have read about the lower bechmarks on i9100G etc. Any other difference that goes against the i9100G? (Sorry that I am hijacking the thread, just wanted to know)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The g has a lot less development than the plain gti9100,unless something changed on here in the last 2 months.And the models are based on regions(supposedly).
Theres a wiki page that lists the models and explains a bit about them,so he can look at that and see what options are best for France.
I think the lte variant is the best,but maybe its for other regions of the world.
theunderling said:
The g has a lot less development than the plain gti9100,unless something changed on here in the last 2 months.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seeing that the G has a stable CM release and the default perpetually being restricted to only nightlies, I had assumed otherwise.
Thanks!!
Meh, I am stuck.
I read around here that s2 display is horrible when compared to s3.
s3 has even cheaper feel, and is 100-170e more expensive
Sensation is useless to me.
Price of S4 is absurd...
By the way, are there some roms for S2 that allow changing software DPI? I have seen ParanoidAndroid on Desire can do that, but apart from this ROM, I haven't seen it anywhere else.
impactor said:
Meh, I am stuck.
I read around here that s2 display is horrible when compared to s3.
s3 has even cheaper feel, and is 100-170e more expensive
Sensation is useless to me.
Price of S4 is absurd...
By the way, are there some roms for S2 that allow changing software DPI? I have seen ParanoidAndroid on Desire can do that, but apart from this ROM, I haven't seen it anywhere else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i prefer the s2 display to my brother's s3 and my friends' s4 and xperia z personally
as to dpi, yes: slim, and rootbox do, and others may that i don't know of
p.s. i love my s2, so fast, and battery lasts soooo long , however if you're paying more than 200 usd it's not worth it

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