Appearance and usability

Contents of delivery:

  • Telephone
  • Battery 3200 mAh Li-Ion
  • Charger with USB cable
  • Wired stereo headset
  • Instructions

Positioning

It will not be superfluous to recall that it was in Samsung that they created the direction of phablets, despite the fact that such models appeared before the first Note. But only Note became successful, and the reason was not only and not so much in the size of the screen, but in a number of characteristics - the operating time, comfort in the hand, the presence of a stylus, which allowed both to write by hand and draw. By the second generation of Note, competitors had released their models, but all were guided only by screen size, overlooking "minor" improvements in other areas. Practice has shown that not only size is important for users, but also other characteristics. And if the first Note was a purely niche product that suddenly shot up, then Samsung approached the creation of the second Note in a more meaningful way, trying to strengthen the advantages of this product. These include the S-Pen, an input technology from Wacom, for which part of this company was even bought so that competitors could not access it. At the same time, Note always had the same or slightly improved characteristics compared to the current flagship of the company, which also gave it the status of a top-end product, which Samsung did not disown without emphasizing the uniqueness of this model and actually being outside any lines and classifications.

Sales of the first Note reached 10 million units, from the moment the Note 2 was presented to September 2013, that is, in almost a year, the second generation sold 28 million copies, JK Shin said about this at IFA. An excellent indicator for a model is not for everyone.

Samsung approached the creation of the third generation of the phablet with a clear understanding - to improve what worked for the Note 2, add a few chips that will show the novelty of the product, and at the same time try to bring the model to the mass market for the first time. We can say that Note2 almost managed to win the sympathy of a wide audience, the buyers of this product were not only geeks or those who understood the advantages of the stylus and a number of other functions. Among the buyers, the category of girls stood out separately, who keep their nose to the wind and buy products that are becoming fashionable. The percentage of such buyers was relatively low, but they are an indicator that by the next generation a qualitative leap can occur and sales will expand due to new audiences.

In my opinion, Samsung felt the reaction of the market and, of course, wanted to increase its sales, especially since the Note category is the most interesting - this product has the largest margin in the lineup, both in relative and absolute terms. For a slightly different positioning of this device, it had to give it an outer shine, namely, add accessories from leading designers (a standard move that Samsung has long mastered), strengthen the difference with the Galaxy S4 (32 GB at least in the Note 3 versus 16 GB in the standard S4) ... Strengthening the difference with the S4 was also necessary in terms of design, for the first time the Note differs from the current flagship in materials and the way it feels in the hand, this was a deliberate move by the company.

Marketing rhetoric aside from premium content aside, this is one of the most productive, long-lived smartphones with interesting additional features. This device, as before, will be in demand from geeks, as well as those who often write by hand or draw, there are simply no alternatives to Note. But along with Note 3, we can say that many business users can look towards this device, for them a number of functions have appeared in it, which, without understatement, can be called a breakthrough on mobile devices (we draw graphs by hand and very quickly, a pop-up calculator and calendar and much more). Following this audience, "fashionistas" immediately catch up, those who choose an expensive device that is in demand among businessmen. In my opinion, it is these two closely related groups of consumers that will push sales of the Note 3 upwards, and there is no doubt that they will grow over the previous model.

It is curious that the most innovative device on the market, as well as in the Samsung lineup, is not the current flagship at all, but the Note 3. And the screen size here is a deliberate advantage, from which many functions follow.

Design, dimensions, controls

Samsung, introducing the Note 3, mentioned that they surveyed users and found out that in addition to technical specifications, they are extremely interested in the quality of materials, they would like to receive a premium quality product. Given that the positioning of the Note line in this segment, the company tried to do this trick. First, for the first time, we departed from the same design language with the flagship, if the Note 2 was similar to the Galaxy S3, then the Note 3 is more like a Galaxy S2 than a Galaxy S4.

Much has been said about the back cover of the device, which is embossed under the skin. There and then a lot of discussions arose about what the cover was made of - someone swore that it was made of leather, someone believed that it was not. It is possible that the confusion has arisen because of the S-Cover, since all covers for this device are made of leather, the back cover is replaced in them. But the standard plastic cover is ordinary plastic with a leather texture and even a line along the edge.




Such a cover feels good in the hand, it does not get dirty, it does not wear out. But from the point of view of material, the difference with the previous model is only in the absence of gloss and varnish, it is more practical. But this is exactly the same material. Curiously, Apple also released plastic cases for the iPhone 5S, but with a leather-like feel. Looks like a trend in the top-end device market.

The device is available in three basic colors - white, black and pink. Don't ask why the color pink appeared, I don't know.


But with the help of covers, you can choose almost any color - there are many of them, and they are very bright, for every taste.





The device measures 151.2x79.2x8.3 mm and weighs 168 grams. For comparison, the Note 2 measures 151.1x80.5x9.4 mm and weighs 183 grams. De facto, with a larger screen diagonal and a more capacious battery, the model has become smaller. It fits well in the hand and is quite comfortable. Another thing is that for women this device may still not be entirely convenient, especially in one-handed operation.



The layout of the device is traditional: on the front panel there is a mechanical key, around it there are two touch keys. Above the screen, you can see the front camera, as well as the proximity sensor, illumination. On the left side there is a paired volume control key, on the right side there is an on / off button. At the top there is a 3.5 jack for headphones or a headset; there are also microphones at both ends. The main camera is on the back, next to it is an LED flash. Finally, at the bottom there is a standard microUSB-connector, right there you can see a slot for an S-Pen stylus. The difference in the nest from the previous model is that the stylus can be inserted either side, this does not play any role now.






The build quality of the device is excellent, there are no backlashes, the parts are tightly fitted to each other. Opening the back cover, you will see an NFC antenna on it, as well as a microSD slot and a slot for a microSIM card inside.






Comparison with Samsung Galaxy Note 2


Comparison with Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3


Comparison with Samsung Galaxy Mega 5.8



Comparison with Samsung Galaxy S4

Display

The screen has a diagonal of 5.7 inches, is made using Super AMOLED technology, the resolution compared to its predecessor has grown from 1280x720 to 1920x1080 pixels (16 million colors). The screen is capacitive, supports up to 10 simultaneous clicks. The quality of the screen is excellent, the ppi value is 386 (in the first Note ppi 285, with a resolution of 1280x800 pixels, and a diagonal of 5.3 inches, in the second with a diagonal of 5.5 inches, 265 ppi).

In my opinion, the race in the quality of screens has come to its logical conclusion, the diagonal may grow, but the picture quality remains almost unchanged (parameters that the user does not see, for example, power consumption, may differ). But in Note 3, the contrast of the screen is greatly increased, which is clearly visible when shooting with the camera, the colors on the screen are more vivid, the same applies to a number of other modes. After the Note 3 screen, it's hard to return to SGS4, the screen looks pale.

Another point is related to the color rendering of this screen - all the proprietary features typical for the flagship of the line have been preserved in the settings, in particular, the adjustment of the saturation of colors, you can make them calm, or you can choose bright colors. But look at the comparison of the screens with the Note 2, I think you will notice that the Note 3 (in the comparison photos below) is a little more calm (not at all sure if the photos convey this difference, which is almost imperceptible).

The screen fades in the sun, but remains readable, the screen size and the ability to set the brightness to automatic adjustment make the device interesting. In general, in terms of the capabilities of the technical property, this model is one of the most advanced on the market - there is control of the screen with a gaze (SmartStay, as in SGS4 - pampering, but someone will definitely like it), but the main thing is to optimize the displayed content, as for video, and for pictures. Samsung engineers have optimized the algorithms, and now, when using this engine, energy costs are significantly lower. The traditional choice of font sizes is very pleasing on a large screen diagonal.





Galaxy S4 screen for comparison

Battery

The phone uses a 3200 mAh Li-Ion battery (3100 mAh in the Galaxy Note 2). According to the manufacturer, the battery is capable of providing up to 16 hours of talk time and up to 890 hours of standby time (3G mode). In the conditions of Moscow networks the device works on average for about two full days at a very high load (the difference with the second Note is not very noticeable). Fully charging the battery takes about 3 hours.

There are not so many models on the market that have batteries with a capacity of more than 3000 mAh, while this is a rarity, and Note 3 looks advantageous, although it does not outperform Note 2. Moreover, in some modes, Note 3 even loses to its counterpart, as a more productive platform (N9000 eight-core Exynos Octa), consumes more power. This is clearly visible when navigating the web. But on average, when using two devices, you will not see much difference, just power consumption in different functions is different.

USB, Bluetooth, communication capabilities

Bluetooth... Bluetooth version 4.0 (LE). When transferring files to other devices that support this technology, Wi-Fi 802.11 n is used, and the theoretical transfer speed is about 24 Mbps. Testing the transfer of a 1 GB file showed a maximum speed of about 12 Mbps within three meters between devices.

The model supports various profiles, in particular Headset, Handsfree, Serial Port, Dial Up Networking, File Transfer, Object Push, Basic Printing, SIM Access, A2DP. Working with headsets does not raise any questions, everything is commonplace.

USB connection... In Android 4, for some reason, they abandoned the USB Mass Storage mode, leaving only MTP (there is also a PTP mode).

The USB version is 3, the data transfer rate is about 45 Mb / s.

When connecting to a PC, the simultaneous operation of USB and Bluetooth is unacceptable, the device requires turning off Bluetooth regardless of the current state (whether there is a connection and transmission or not), this is extremely inconvenient. When connected via USB, the device recharges.

The microUSB connector also supports the MHL standard, which means that using a special cable (available from electronics stores), you can connect your phone to a TV (to the HDMI output). In fact, the standard describes the ability to connect via microUSB to HDMI. This solution looks preferable to a separate miniHDMI connector on the case.

For GSM networks, EDGE class 12 is provided.

Wi-Fi... Supports 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac standard, the wizard is similar to that for Bluetooth. You can remember the selected networks, automatically connect to them. It is possible to set up a one-touch connection to the router, for this you need to press a button on the router, and also activate a similar button in the device menu (WPA SecureEasySetup). Of the additional options, it is worth noting the setup wizard, it appears when the signal is weak or disappearing. You can also configure Wi-Fi to work on a schedule.

Also, for the 802.11 n standard, the HT40 operating mode is supported, which allows you to double the Wi-Fi bandwidth (requires support from another device).

Wi-Fi Direct... A protocol that aims to replace Bluetooth or compete with its third version (it also uses Wi-Fi version n to transfer large files). In the Wi-Fi settings menu, select the Wi-Fi Direct section, the phone starts looking for devices around. We select the desired device, activate the connection on it, and voila. Now, in the file manager, you can view files on another device, as well as transfer them. Another option is to simply find the devices connected to your router and transfer the necessary files to them, this can be done from the gallery or other sections of the phone. The main thing is that the device supports Wi-Fi Direct.

NFC... The handset has NFC technology, which can be used with various additional applications.

S Beam... A technology that allows you to transfer a file of several gigabytes to another phone in a few minutes. In fact, we see in the S Beam a combination of two technologies - NFC and Wi-Fi Direct. The first technology is used to bring up and authorize phones, but the second is already used to transfer the files themselves. A creatively redesigned way of using Wi-Fi Direct is much easier than using a dual-device connection, file selection, and so on.

Infrared port... It is necessary to use the phone as a control panel for various household appliances. Automatically adjusts for almost any vehicle model.

Memory, memory cards

The phone has 32 GB of internal memory (there is a 64 GB version, the latter will appear later), initially the user has access to all the space, except for the 2.9 GB used by the system. Memory cards up to 64 GB are also supported.

The amount of RAM is 3 GB, after downloading it is free about 2 GB. This is enough for all applications and is a kind of record for today's phones. It is curious that in my version of the device on Octa I did not observe any problems typical for SGS4 (brakes in the gallery and the like), I am sure that this is due to the expanded amount of RAM. The device turned out to be very nimble.

Hardware model options

The model is available in two versions: the first and the most massive one with which this device appears in most markets is the Snapdragon 800 (the clock speed of a quad-core processor from Qualcomm up to 2.3 GHz, graphics coprocessor Adreno 330). At the same time, the Exynos 5420 Octa is built on the big.LITTLE ARM architecture and uses two quad-core processors (eight cores in total), one Cortex A7 processor (each core frequency up to 1.3 GHz), one Cortex-A15 processor (frequency up to 1.9 GHz ). The graphics coprocessor in this case is PowerVR SGX 544MP3 533 MHz.

In Russia, initially 3G devices on Octa (N9000) will be sold, later their version with LTE will appear (the version for Europe on Snapdragon - N9005). A dual SIM version (N9002) will also be available. Below in the benchmarks you can see the performance of the LTE-device, which is typical for such models.

Camera

Almost identical to the Galaxy S4 in most settings and modes. I see no point in describing all the functionalities, I am sending you to the corresponding review, everything coincides there - this is simultaneous shooting with the front and main cameras, the presence of various modes.














13-megapixel camera (BSI sensor) with LED flash. Once again, the automatic detection of lighting conditions has been improved, there are no other differences, except for video recording in 4K (2160p). In this case, the stream is 47 mbps, 29 frames per second. Considering that there are almost no televisions that support viewing such a picture in the hands of the population, so far this is a function that is premature. Most products will support it in the future though. Stereo sound recording from two microphones.

Sample photos:


Here are some comparison photos with Galaxy S4 (all settings are automatic). The Note 3's camera has a wider angle, colors come out brighter, and details are a little better. Therefore, it is probably impossible to say that they are identical with SGS4. The improvements are quite large and visible to the naked eye, this is one of the best cameras on the market.

Galaxy Note 3 Galaxy S4

Note 3 Software Features - S Pen Control

The most interesting thing about Samsung's phablet is the possibilities associated with a stylus called the S-Pen. In previous devices, many users did not use the pen, because they did not consider it convenient, important, and did not see examples of real application in software. With the release of Note 3, this situation will radically change, since the software update is aimed at making it convenient for you to do many things not only with your hands, but also with a stylus.

The S-Pen update has been dubbed a new concept that sounds like this: "Smart Freedom" (Smart Freedom). The main feature is control of the stylus without touching the screen (Air View / Air Command) and calling up the auxiliary menu with 5 quick functions. Let's take a closer look at these commands.

V S Action now all notes are recognized, they can be linked to actions, so you enter an entry to call someone, the phone recognizes this and adds it to the calendar or makes it possible to call from the phone book at the right time. The function is not very popular and amazing, perhaps the most useless of all.

ScrapBook- an application that allows you to save text, pictures and so on from the screen, you circle the desired piece of the page and then select a category. Everything is saved in one place, including the video. A good feature that can be interesting as an analogue, albeit weaker, of Evernote. The advantage is that this feature is built into the phone.

S Finder- universal search by phone and its memory, it searches for data in all applications without exception (you can, however, customize the places where nothing is worth looking for).

Pen Window- draw a square on the screen, and a window of the size that you drew appears, there are application icons in it. In fact, this is a pop-up window that you may need when you are working somewhere and want, for example, to calculate something in a calculator. It hangs over the main window and can be closed at any time. Conveniently.

The S Note application has been updated, it has synchronization with Evernote (!), A fairly convenient interface for working with notes, you can see several pages, which is extremely convenient compared to the current version. I highly recommend watching a video about this application to share my delight - one of the most interesting programs on the phone.

In Multi Window, you can now open the same application in two parts of the window, for example, speak simultaneously in the IM messenger with two different friends. But the best thing is that you can copy a message from one part of the window to another.

A strange feature of MultiVision - you can transfer one picture to several devices, by combining several devices, you will make one big screen. I doubt very much that anyone needs it. But suddenly?

As you can see, the main features of Note 3 in the software are connected with the use of the stylus, and in this product it looks very convenient, and you get used to using it literally in a matter of days. In addition, the device has all the functions that we saw in the SGS4, for example, this Air Gesture, that is, control using gestures above the front camera. I see no point in describing all these possibilities again, you can read about them in the SGS4 review.

The speed shown by Speedtest is not very high, although it differs from 3G in a big way. This is due to the still weak LTE coverage of Megafon in Moscow. In addition, high-rise buildings around the test site may be to blame.

Battery

The new Galaxy Note 3 has a 3200 mAh Li-Ion battery. With a powerful processor and a large screen, the battery will last a little over a day of active use. With a sparing mode, the "plafond" can last up to two days. Of course, a lot depends on the brightness of the screen, therefore, by making the backlight a little less, you can significantly extend the battery life.

In general, the use case will not change. You still have to charge your smartphone in the evening. Even if you use the device a little and do not put it down too much in a day, then the next day you run the risk of being left without a phone by lunchtime.

The price of the issue

The new gadget costs 34,990 rubles. It may seem that the price of the device is overpriced. If so, then not at all. Judge for yourself: there is a powerful processor, a good camera, a new design, and a lot of software chips. In fact, this is an enlarged Galaxy S 4, and it cost only 29,990 rubles at the start. So, the price is quite adequate for the set of hardware and software that Samsung provides us.

In addition, the situation is significantly improved by the opportunity to buy a Galaxy Note 3 in the Megafon salon at a price of 21,990 rubles. But here, too, everything is not so simple. Of course, there will be no binding contract for 2 years (like AT&T and the iPhone). But you will need to deposit 3,000 rubles, and this is where your obligations to Samsung and Megafon end. In principle, the idea itself is good, and this is the first time I have seen such a model in Russia. But the lack of support from other operators is depressing. That is, if you have Beeline or MTS, then you will not buy a smartphone for less than 34,990 rubles, at least not yet.

Smartphones purchased in the Megfon showroom will be locked for use with other operators. This also imposes restrictions on the use of the smartphone in other countries. In fact, you will not be able to insert a local SIM card and you will have to use roaming, which is inconvenient. Information has leaked to the media that smartphones blocked by the operator can work with local SIM cards abroad for up to 90 days. The Russian representative office of Samsung has not yet commented on this information to us.

The new Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is already available for sale in official Samsung stores, as well as in Megafon branded stores. The price is for a smartphone with an Exynos processor. How much the version with LTE and Snapdragon 800 will cost is still unknown. Judging by the experience of sales of Galaxy S 4, the price for this model can be significantly higher.

Competitors

Sony Xperia Z Ultra

This flagship Sony smartphone features a record-breaking 6.4-inch Full HD display with proprietary TRILUMINOS Display technology. The smartphone is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor with a clock frequency of 2.2 GHz, supports 4G LTE and HD voice technology.

The editorial office has not yet had time gg in the person of Technoslav Bergamot and our newsmen, get a good sleep and heal calluses on your fingers after IFA 2013, how we got our hands on one of the most anticipated smartphones of the year (more precisely, its pre-sale sample), presented at this very IFA 2013 a couple of weeks ago - Samsung Galaxy Note 3. Now we have the opportunity to study in more detail the update of the Galaxy Note line of smartphones, which for two generations of existence has ceased to be a bold experiment and has turned into a successful (especially considering the exotic dimensions of the device) and exciting the minds of not only capricious geeks solution.

Specifications

With the Galaxy Note 3, Samsung has followed the same path as with the Galaxy S4. For example, the Galaxy Note 3's body is even more compact and lighter than the Galaxy Note II (which is incredibly valuable for this size), while the display is two tenths of an inch larger. Of course, with FullHD with all the beauties that come with it. Super AMOLED, of course. The smartphone received the latest version of the Android 4.3 operating system available to Google partners, and in the OS serial number it even surpassed the flagship, which rather indicates that Google is releasing Android updates too quickly. The processor has also been updated to a new generation. Exynos 5 Octa 5420 for 3G models (this should be expected in Ukraine) and Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 for LTE versions. To all this, add 3 GB of RAM - and you get the most productive smartphone at the time of release. If we also remember the S Pen stylus made by Wacom, which recognizes 1024 gradations of pressure, and additions in the interface (S Note, Air Command) for working with it, as well as temperature and humidity sensors in the case, then in the end we will get the most sophisticated smartphone, from presented on the market by mid-2013.

Specifications Samsung Galaxy Note 3
Operating system Google Android 4.3
Display Super AMOLED, 5.7 "", FullHD, 1920x1080 pixels, 16 million colors, pixel density 386 ppi
CPU Exynos 5 Octa 5420, four ARM Cortex-A15 cores (1.9 GHz) + four ARM Cortex-A7 cores (1.3 GHz); Mali-T628 graphics
RAM 3 GB
Flash memory 32/64 GB + microSDXC card slot (up to 64 GB)
Camera 13 MP, autofocus, 1080p video recording, LED-backlight; front camera for video calls (2 MP)
Wireless technology Wi-Fi a / ac / b / g / n (2.4 / 5 GHz), Bluetooth 4.0, GSM / GPRS / EDGE 850/900/1800/1900, HSPA + 850/900/1900/2100, NFC, IR (transmitter only )
Interfaces micro-USB with support for MHL 2.0 and USB-host, headphone output 3.5 mm
Gps Yes
Additionally temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure sensors, S Pen stylus
Frame 151x79x8 mm, 168 grams
Battery 3200 mAh

Frame

It seems to me that the biggest surprise at the time of the announcement of the Galaxy Note 3 was the back cover material. No seriously. A FullHD display, 3GB of RAM, a flagship camera and the best processors available - it was all predictable. But the fact that in the new model Samsung will move away from the established tradition of using glossy plastic, moreover, it will return to the "square" design, was completely unexpected (although not that fundamentally). And the most surprising thing is that the tactile sensations from the smartphone, apparently paired with the visual (the line along the edges plus the "leather" texture) really force the brain to identify the material, if not as leather, then just like leatherette. The effect was tested on several people far from technology. Even turning the smartphone in their hands, they were sure that they were holding the product in their hands, not made of plastic. The truth is revealed if you hold your fingernail over the surface of the smartphone.

In general, the body of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 looks really noble. In addition, it does not slip in the hand and does not collect scratches - which are also the advantages of the material. But I suspect that it will be more difficult to scrub off dirty stains from such a coating.

Surely many potential buyers who have not yet encountered "shades" in everyday life are still worried about whether they can be operated with one hand. Galaxy Note 3 in a large masculine brush may not be perceived as a giant. The device is rather large for female hands, but if there really is a need for this, then you can cope with a smartphone (launch an application, call somewhere, write a message) without the help of a second hand. There is a separate section in the menu where you can adapt the menu display for "one-handed" control. But I, for example, have long been accustomed to working with large smartphones with two hands. This is much more convenient, especially if you have a pen at hand. And the likelihood of dropping an expensive item is reduced.

All the usual connectors and buttons on the body of the smartphone are located in their typical places. The reduced thickness and width of the case made working with the "shade" more comfortable. There is practically nothing left of the frame around the screen, it even seemed to me that it is even thinner than that of the Galaxy S4.

The Galaxy Note 3 uses microUSB 3.0 as a connector for connecting to a computer (and charger). It looks a little differently (larger) than the previously known microUSB. The connector is compatible with old-style chargers, but the package will already include a new format cable, which should provide the gadget with faster charging and data transfer. We had a smartphone on the review without a box with a complete set, so we will believe the specifications.

At one end with microUSB 3.0 is a speaker - loud and high-quality. There are a pair of microphones on the body. When you record video in this way, the sound is better. Microphones are highly sensitive. And if you talk on the headset at the moment when the phone is not far from your face or somewhere shallow in your clothes, you can hear the sound of your own breathing or footsteps, and quite clearly.

For the third generation, the S Pen has not changed its position on the body. Finding the place where it is stored, blindly, is not so easy, which I would rather attribute to the pluses. Because in this case, the likelihood that, thinking about it, the user will remove the S Pen and even forget something good or lose it somewhere. And so to extract the pen, you need to make at least a conscious effort.

The build of the Galaxy Note 3 is excellent. The lid fits perfectly to the body and does not bend anywhere. This is despite the fact that in itself it is very thin and flexible. And in general, the Galaxy Note 3 case is another refined and improved detail that makes working with the flagship smartphone very pleasant.

Screen

If the Galaxy S4 had an almost reference screen (excellent color rendering, viewing angles, bright colors, no PenTile "sins" are visible, readability under the sun), then the Galaxy Note 3 has 10 percent better he's bigger. The very high resolution paired with the high performance of the device, rich colors and minimal bezels around the display make watching videos a pleasure. I generally keep quiet about games. Even me, a person indifferent to them, they were able to captivate, and for a long time. Looks like a shot from a sci-fi movie.

For technical reasons, I was not able to measure the smartphone screen with a colorimeter (alas, I hope that one of these days it will be possible to fix this matter and supplement the review). By eye, the screen is exactly the same in terms of color rendition and brightness as the Galaxy S4 (you can read more about the screen of this device in a separate article). There was no bright sun in Kiev in the days when Galaxy Note 3 was in my hands. On a cloudy day, the picture looks predictably great. There is no reason to think that there will be problems with brightness in sunny weather. But I hope (forecasters promise, more precisely) that I will still be able to check one of these days.

Like the Galaxy S4, the Note 3 supports gloved operation. This option must be enabled in the display settings menu for closer to winter. In the gallery below you can find all sorts of other display settings.

Performance, heating, autonomy

So, before us is a smartphone with top-end performance for today. I have never been able to boot the Galaxy Note 3 so that its resources become insufficient for work, or so that the slightest brakes appear (the exception is KNOX when you first turn on and install applications, but I suspect that it should be so). Below are screenshots with predictably high benchmark results. By the way, even in moments of very high load, the smartphone did not overheat. The top of the device got slightly warm during testing and gaming. By the standards of the flagship device, which are very hot and all polls, this is another reason for pride.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 demonstrates very good autonomy by the standards of an Android smartphone, especially by the standards of a smartphone with a huge 5.7-inch display. In the AnTuTu test, he scored 547 points, discharging at maximum load in 3 hours by 80%. A similar result was demonstrated by the Sony Xperia Z / ZL. Subjectively, the Galaxy Note 3 has a shorter battery life than the Galaxy S4 and S4 Mini. It can last a day or more with my typical usage pattern. But his predecessor could boast about the same. Thus, autonomy is the indicator by which the Galaxy Note 3 has not surpassed it head-on. On the other hand, there is no one to compare him with to say that he is better or worse than the competitors existing on the market.

Interface

Although the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 runs Android 4.3 from the user's point of view, especially the user of a Samsung smartphone, the changes compared to Android 4.2 are almost invisible here, since they are either "cosmetic" and relate to the native OS shell (camera, fonts, buttons, etc. details) and are not visible under the "mask" of TouchWiz, or relate to those functions that are not too striking for ordinary users (improving energy saving when working with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, for example). However, even small improvements are good for the user. And for Samsung, this is also another plus in the image box of the leading company, because it again presented its flagship device on a fresh Android at the forefront of the planet.

Preinstalled applications (most, with the exception of those that are presented exclusively in the Note line), smart functions, the interface is familiar to us from the Galaxy S4 smartphone. KNOX and My Magazine are the absolute new additions to the Galaxy Note 3. The screenshots below show a complete list of out-of-the-box features.

Please note that this is the first Samsung device in which we see “out of the box” a menu with application folders. It is good that the company approached the issue of "packaging" without fanaticism and grouped only branded applications and a number of Google applications. I'm not a fan of daddies in smartphones, so I usually take a long time and painfully out of them all the ones I need on a regular basis (the Oppo Find 5, Huawei Ascend D2 and Alcatel OneTouch Idol X interfaces were troublesome). The Galaxy Note 3 has only three folders - with Samsung branded services, Google services and several third-party applications adapted for Samsung devices.

The settings menu has changed a bit. Title and classification, as well as the placement of individual sections.

But the essence remains the same.

The player's settings were also slightly changed. The equalizer menu has become clearer. Such a function as adapting sound to the hearing characteristics of a particular person appeared in the Galaxy S4, but only in the Galaxy Note 3 did I finally decide to use it, because it works pretty well.

The Galaxy Note 3 camera records videos in FullHD and allows you to take photos at the same time.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 video review

In the dry residue

So, Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is not only a good upgrade from the previous representative of the "feathered" line, but also the most productive and most technically advanced device at the time of its appearance. Not only thanks to the presence of a stylus, but also thanks to the too rapid development of technologies, the smartphone turned out to be even if not half a head, then a third - that's right, stronger than the older device of 2013 in the S line - Galaxy S4. Performance, a properly developing TouchWiz interface with tested applications for the S Pen, an excellent camera and player, a fresh version of Android, a compact body (for a 5.7-inch smartphone) - this is all that allows us to award the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 the most honorable editorial award. ... The disadvantages of a smartphone include its not the most massive size (but it is also its advantage) and a purchase budget that not everyone can afford. If you are one of those users for whom it is important to have the very best device, then prepare money (8000 UAH at the start of sales) and take a queue. The same goes for those looking for a worthy upgrade for the first Galaxy Note line, as two years is a great life cycle for a smartphone.

6 reasons to buy a Samsung Galaxy Note 3:

  • the presence of sensors for temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure (as in the Galaxy S4);
  • impressive Super AMOLED screen with FullHD resolution;
  • high-quality 13-megapixel camera with a large number of preset shooting modes;
  • record performance (at the time of this review);
  • stylus that recognizes 1024 gradations of pressing;
  • and thoughtful applications for working with it;

2 reasons not to buy a Samsung Galaxy Note 3:

  • the price is not for everyone;
  • size is not for everyone.

One of the brightest releases of the fall was undoubtedly the entry into the market of the phablet Samsung Galaxy Note 3... Today the editors of the site were one of the first in Russia to have the opportunity to test this smartphone. Representatives of the Galaxy Note line always stand apart in the Galaxy family, and this is not surprising: it was the first Note that opened a new direction in the development of smartphones. Samsung Galaxy Note 3 no exception, he became a worthy continuation of his predecessors.

One of the important highlights of the series is the large screen, special software, and the SPen stylus. The update itself is expected, the hardware and the screen in the second version needed to be updated to the modern level. At the same time, like the Samsung Galaxy S4, the improvements did not increase the thickness of the smartphone, it is equally important that this did not affect the battery life. As in the case of the S4, there will be several versions on the market that differ in the processor used, as well as a budget version and a variant with a flexible screen towards the end of the year. The latter will hardly be seen in Russia, it will appear in a limited edition. This year, sales of Samsung GALAXY Note 3 started in more than 140 countries at once. So let's get started.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 appearance

The design came as a pleasant surprise during the announcement of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3. Instead of using a glossy body, which differs from other members of the Galaxy family only in size, a leather styling design is used.

The shape of the body has changed, it has become more rectangular, a protrusion of the camera has appeared. As for me, this is very similar to the features of the Samsung Galaxy S2, which is still very popular today.

The edging for metal along the body has been preserved, only here it is superfluous, it looks a little variegated.

The body, as before, is made of plastic, it is pleasant to the touch and plastic. The back cover, if you don't look closely, really looks like a leather trim. Close up, stylized seams and a protruding bezel show themselves.

Despite its size, it is easy to hold in the hands, there is no feeling that you are calling on the tablet. As expected, the display diagonal has increased from 5.5 to 5.7 inches and the battery capacity has increased from 3100 to 3200 mAh. But at the same time, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 has become lighter (from 183 to 168 grams) and thinner (from 9.4 to 8.3 mm), only the body length has increased by 0.1 mm.

There are three body options available: black, pink and white. If these colors do not suit or do not like the back cover, you can choose a case from a whole palette, for every taste.

Now for the buttons and ports on the case. Right: power button.

Above is an infrared port and a 3.5mm audio jack.

There is a volume rocker on the left and a stylus case on the bottom, as well as a micro USB connector.

By the way, this connector now supports USB 3.0, data transfer via cable will take noticeably less time, and it will charge twice as fast.

There is no point in talking about the creak and backlash of the case, everything was done at the highest level.

Filling Samsung Galaxy Note 3

On the inside, like the Galaxy S4, there are several versions for different markets. In Russia, apparently, both will appear, with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor and Samsung Exynos Octa 5420. The first works with Adreno 330 graphics, and the second with ARM Mali-T628 MP6. They also differ in support for LTE, only Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 has it.

Installed 3 GB of RAM, this will be the maximum bar before switching to 64-bit processors. By the way, it feels like the memory is right, it works more harmoniously than the S4, and a large number of open applications will not affect performance.

The minimum available memory for storing data now starts from 32 GB, there is also a version with twice the amount. Traditionally, you can expand the memory using micro SD cards.

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, GPS / GNONASS and a number of other data transmission technologies are supported. There was no surprise, no FM radio appeared here either.

Antutu Benchmark Samsung Galaxy Note 3

Vellamo Benchmark Samsung Galaxy Note 3

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 screen

If everything was satisfactory with the hardware of the second version, then the screen asked to be replaced against the background of the flagship releases of not only Samsung, but also competitors. Here is the already familiar Super AMOLED matrix with Full HD resolution, protected by Gorilla Glass.

The diagonal has increased from 5.55 to 5.7 inches. Pixel density 386ppi. The PenTile technology is used. Unlike the first displays with this technology, there is no jagged issue here, and the pixel density and diamond orientation are beneficial.

Display data is similar to S4. The maximum brightness is 323 cd / m2, in Standard mode it is 337 cd / m2. In some situations, it can rise up to 420 cd / m2. It's almost twice as bright as the Note 2.

A distinctive feature of this type of matrix is ​​its high contrast. Even small details look deep and detailed. With the viewing angles everything is in order, only a bluish tint appears with a strong deviation.

You can choose a palette to suit your taste: "Dynamic", "Standard", "Professional photography" and "Cinema". "Standard" - 7500K, "Professional photography" - a successful attempt to match Adobe RGB, 6700K, "Cinema" - 6700K, sRGB.

Camera Samsung Galaxy Note 3

The tendencies for increased attention of manufacturers have also touched the Samsung Galaxy Note 3. A block is used, like the S4 paired with a flash. The software component also does its job. Various modes are available to the user: Motion Photo, Photo with Sound, Animated Photo, Corrector, Best Photo, Best Face, Retouch, HDR (High Dynamic Range), Panorama, Sports, Golf, 360 degrees, Live Photo.


photo clickable

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 software

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 runs on Google Android 4.3 operating system with a proprietary TouchWiz shell. Everything is familiar, I personally don't like gurgling sounds, cartoon graphics and bright icons. But this is a matter of taste and, if desired, can be solved.

There are also some differences from the S4, for example, when you remove the stylus, a menu "context commands" appears. Convenient, it doesn't take time to learn the commands. It is not necessary to touch the screen, the stylus is recognized at a distance of about 1 cm.

Active Notes - allows you to convert handwritten text to typed text, make calls with commands, add contacts and make a list of tasks.

Album of fragments - collects pictures, photos and even websites in one place. Convenient access to data and quick return when needed.

Instant Comments - Takes a screenshot with the option to write a comment.

S Finder is an advanced content search on your smartphone. Various filters are provided such as date, location, file type or keywords.

Window in window - work with several windows at once in multitasking mode. Window sizes are set manually. Now it is not necessary to detach from running applications.

S Note - updated, the service allows you to edit, add and view notes using a user-friendly interface. Synchronization with cloud services such as Evernote is provided.

My Magazine - provides access to personalized news, social networks and media entertainment.

Samsung KNOX is an application that was first seen at the presentation of the Galaxy S4. This application is interesting in the corporate segment, it allows you to store important personal information in a special container with protection at the system level from theft. If you lose your smartphone, you will not be able to access them.

Find smartphone - allows you to block your smartphone if it is lost or stolen. The user can remotely block the return to factory settings, as well as, if necessary, delete personal data.

Video review Samsung Galaxy Gear

Results for Samsung Galaxy Note 3

Samsung GALAXY Note 3 has become a worthy and anticipated update to the popular series. Almost everything has improved, many changes are significant. Such as, for example, a new display, processor, camera and memory capacity. All the improvements have not increased the dimensions of the case; it has become even lighter and thinner. I was pleasantly surprised by the back cover, you can treat this stylization differently, but you already start to get tired of blindly copying the glossy body.

Of course, you can argue a lot about the convenience of phablets and the advisability of having two devices - a smartphone and a tablet. But for people who are often on the road or when a smartphone is needed not only for wasting time on social networks and playing with birds, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 can become a convenient and functional work tool.

In the meantime, I can call the cost of Samsung GALAXY Note 3 a disadvantage, it will cost 34,990 rubles. According to the results of the test, he receives an award "Gold..

Samsung Galaxy Gear review

Preview video review, full version will be published in the coming days.

Review of Samsung View Covers for Note 3

Preview video review, full version will be published in the coming days.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 presentation in Kazan

You can view the video and photo report of the official presentation in

Good day, our dear regular readers! After a half-year break in our reviews, it is time to analyze all the novelties in the world of Samsung gadgets and conduct a detailed review of them. Probably the most significant event that has happened recently was the release of the new flagship from Samsung - Samsung Galaxy Note 3. The review of this gadget will be the subject of my given publication, which opens a new season of reviews of devices from Samsung.

Surely you have already seen a lot of video reviews in different languages ​​of this gadget, but we will review the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 in Russian, describing all the most interesting things that others practically do not talk about. Since we have already talked about video reviews, it is worth noting that they have become somewhat boring and monotonous: if this is due to boring models of Samsung gadgets, if interest has disappeared, but I am full of energy, after a hot summer and will scout this model with curiosity.

As you know, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is the successor to the Samsung Galaxy Note 2, which I dubbed the "shovel" in the last post. Well, no matter how tolerant and correct I would be, but this nickname, which is circulating in everyone's word, is itself involuntarily pronounced. Will we see something new in the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 or will there be an upgrade of the "classic model" as always !? I myself already want to know about this, so let's start reviewing the gadget.


Samsung Galaxy Note 3 Unboxing

Holding the box with the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 in my hand, I already suspect that it will be a "giant" again. A few words should be said about the box itself, it, as in the new established trend of Samsung, is made of environmentally friendly materials, even from recyclable materials, that is, recycled household waste. It's somehow difficult to think and talk about environmental friendliness when this environmentally friendly packaging was made several hundred kilometers from Fokushima ... No, well, this is undoubtedly good intentions to be welcomed, but the flagship packaging is not made like that, to be honest, it reminds me of a toilet paper, even "iPhone for the Poor" is put in a beautiful box. Well, okay, we see the box only during the post-purchase period and until we remove the device from there.

So, we open our "eco" package and here ... - "Shovel!" I have the same second reaction to the next model Samsung Galaxy Note 3. Looking ahead, I will say that I do not see any innovations on the front, but the back cover surprised me very much, but more on that later, first I will tell you about the gadget's configuration.

EquipmentSamsungGalaxyNote 3

Under the phone in the box there is an instruction, also made of the same paper as the packaging. There are a lot of instructions, just in case, I guess. The package contains headphones with a 3.5 jack and a set of spare earpads for them. The package also includes a DATA cable with a new connector and a charger. We should also mention the innovation: stylus refills. That's all: in principle, the necessary set for comfortable work with the device is included.


Samsung Galaxy Note 3 design

There is no particular difference in the front, or rather, there is no difference at all, both with the second version of Note, and with other brothers. The phone is made of plastic, which is carefully made up every time. The side edging of the smartphone is made, as always, under the metal, but again, it is plastic. As it was said above, there is an innovation in the rear panel of the phone, it is made under the skin, but it is again the same plastic, although it is quite pleasant to the touch. As the authors of this innovation admitted - they tried to emphasize the similarity of the gadget with a notebook, whether it is or not - each user will determine for himself. Nevertheless, I liked the cover, it is pleasant to the touch, and most importantly, most likely, it will not scratch - this is a significant advantage.

This back panel comes in three colors: black, white and pink. On the left, on the side panel, is the volume rocker, on the right is the power button. At the bottom of the device there is a DATA-cable connector, as well as a microphone and speaker. A stylus called the S Pen is also inserted from the bottom. There is a 3.5 headphone jack on top, as well as a microphone hole and an infrared port. The back cover houses the camera and flash. The speaker, sensors and camera are located on the top in front, and 3 standard keys of Samsung gadgets at the bottom.

In general, the design, although not particularly new, is nevertheless pleasant. The gadget sits comfortably in the hand, despite its large size, but its control is a separate topic.


Samsung Galaxy Note 3 specifications

Now let's find out the parameters of the device:

Network: GSM / GPRS / EDGE operating in the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz bands, 3G and LTE are also available.

Operating system: Android 4.3, with built-in Nature UX interface.

Processor: Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 (MSM8974) @ 2.26 GHz, Adreno 330 graphics, LTE or 8-core Samsung Exynos Octa 5420 processor (4 cores @ 1.9 GHz, four from 1 , 3 GHz), graphics ARM Mali-T628 MP6.

Physical memory: 3 GB.

Built-in memory: 32 GB + microSD (up to 64 GB).

Display: 5.7-inch, Full HD Super AMOLED with 1920 x 1080 resolution.

Camera: main - 13 megapixel with autofocus and smart stabilization, LED flash; front camera - 2 megapixels with smart stabilization.

Video recording: 30fps, Smooth motion (FHD 60fps), Slow motion (HD 120fps).

Connections: Wi-Fi works in 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac (HT80) standards, GPS and GLONASS geolocation services, Bluetooth 4.0, IR LED (remote control).

Sensors: gesture sensor, position sensor, accelerometer, digital compass, temperature and humidity sensor, gyroscope and barometer.

Battery: removable Li-ion, 3200 mAh.

Dimensions: 151.2 x 79.2 x 8.3 mm, weight 168g.


General impressions of the device

Despite the large size of the device, the gadget is good enough. The large and high-quality screen fascinates, as always, the animation and Android features, as always, fascinate. Nevertheless, it is somewhat inconvenient to work with the device, holding it with one hand, especially in order to quickly answer a call - you need to accustom yourself to transfer it to your hand.

It is worth noting the convenience of working with the stylus, the response is very good, it is especially convenient to draw with it. The stylus will also be comfortable for those with thumbs.

The performance of the gadget is, of course, fantastic: there was not a single slowdown when playing HD movies and the latest powerful games. It is very convenient to play and watch movies on a smartphone, again because of the large screen, as well as because of the high resolution and high-quality color reproduction.

To summarize, I want to speak positively about the innovation of Sumsung and recommend it to everyone who wants it! Until next time!