Keep Inspire or Switch to Atrix

[TX123]

I'm new to the forums, but I recently bought the HTC inspire. Besides the battery and the dots on the screen, I really like like the phone. Do you guys think it will be worth the extra $100 if I return my inspire for the atrix?

 

[Donatron]

Personally, I'm switching to to the Atrix because I simply found the Inspire to be too big. As awesome as the screen is, the physical size of the phone was just too large for me. It didn't feel comfortable in my hand, and it wasn't as easy taking it in and out of my pocket. The Atrix is roughly the same size as the iPhone, and I always felt that iPhone was the perfect size.

 

[diet]

im in the same boat...the only reason i bought the inspire is because i know i can return within 30 days if it didnt blew me away. overall i think the inspire is great, the little dots i hardly notice and doesnt bother me at all but the battery bugs the hell out of me. I knew that before getting the phone but I didnt know it was THAT bad....from all the reviews i've read seems like the atrix battery will last about twice as long...and comparing to the iphone 4 the inspire battery only lasts me less then a day to the iphone which lasted me about 1.5 days to 2 but if the battery is bugging you then i would say personally go with the atrix

edit: don't get me wrong im not in the inspire forum to bash on it...overall i think its a hell of a phone but realistically the battery is ridiculous...

 

[kpenning]

Let's see:

- Tegra 2 vs 1 GHz Snapdragon
- 1 GB ram vs 512 MB ram
- fingerprint scanner
- qHD screen

 

[Carbontech]

"edit: don't get me wrong im not in the inspire forum to bash on it...overall i think its a hell of a phone but realistically the battery is ridiculous..."

I agree the Inspire is better than I thought it would be but,the battery leaves something to desired.

 

[knappkd]

"edit: don't get me wrong im not in the inspire forum to bash on it...overall i think its a hell of a phone but realistically the battery is ridiculous..."

I agree the Inspire is better than I thought it would be but,the battery leaves something to desired.

I said this in the inspire forum and got ripped. I will say it again here... the battery blows!! So does the fm radio reception.

 

[Left Coast DJ]

Let's see:

- Tegra 2 vs 1 GHz Snapdragon
- 1 GB ram vs 512 MB ram
- fingerprint scanner
- qHD screen

The first three of these differences should not, or at least minimally, impact your user experience. Android OS cannot really take advantage of multi-core processors right now. Even if Google releases 2.4 tomorrow, who knows when Motorola will push it to Motoblur phones. And I believe the Atrix can only use 512 of the RAM while in phone mode, the other 512 is for docking (I'm too lazy to cite a source for this now. But I vaguely remember reading this somewhere). And the fingerprint scanner is a nice little gizmo. Outside of the cool unlock-the-phone feature, I can't think of any apps. a person would use on a daily basis that needs a fingerprint scanner.

The 4" qHD screen and the enormous battery, however, would be something that'll impact the user experience. And don't forget the front-facing camera on the Atrix if you're a Skype, Fring, etc. user.

 

[Roze]

The first three of these differences should not, or at least minimally, impact your user experience. Android OS cannot really take advantage of multi-core processors right now. Even if Google releases 2.4 tomorrow, who knows when Motorola will push it to Motoblur phones. And I believe the Atrix can only use 512 of the RAM while in phone mode, the other 512 is for docking (I'm too lazy to cite a source for this now. But I vaguely remember reading this somewhere).

This is something I haven't read before. And when I googled, I can't find a reputable blog that mentioned this other than a few threads in other forums. If you can find the link, much appreciated.

And the fingerprint scanner is a nice little gizmo. Outside of the cool unlock-the-phone feature, I can't think of any apps. a person would use on a daily basis that needs a fingerprint scanner.

I can think of a few, bank apps or password apps. I'd like auto sign in on websites but don't because of security reason, with the fingerprint scanner, I won't be too afraid of doing this. Some ppl might want to have some of the photos/notes secured as well. I don't really see the fingerprint scanner too much of a gimick. My laptop has one and I find it very helpful.

 

[Left Coast DJ]

I can think of a few, bank apps or password apps. I'd like auto sign in on websites but don't because of security reason, with the fingerprint scanner, I won't be too afraid of doing this. Some ppl might want to have some of the photos/notes secured as well. I don't really see the fingerprint scanner too much of a gimick. My laptop has one and I find it very helpful.

My understanding of how fingerprint scanning apps work is that when you swipe your finger, the app triggers the password that's stored inside the app. So while you don't have to physically re-type a bank password, it's still transmitted over the airwaves. And if you're on an open (unsecure) network, your password can still be intercepted.

I'll try to find the 512/1GB memory article. I think it was mentioned in one of the blog (Engadget/BGR/etc.) reviews.

 

[Roze]

My understanding of how fingerprint scanning apps work is that when you swipe your finger, the app triggers the password that's stored inside the app. So while you don't have to physically re-type a bank password, it's still transmitted over the airwaves. And if you're on an open (unsecure) network, your password can still be intercepted.

I know that, unless the site is encrypted. What I meant was that if a friend were to use my phone and went to the site that has the auto sign/log, which means name/pw already inputed, they can simply sign in to my account on the site. With the fingerprint scanner, you'd need to scan your fingerprint before the auto sign/log in is inputed. This is how my laptop works and I'm thinking it's the same idea if it's implemented for the Atrix.

I'll try to find the 512/1GB memory article. I think it was mentioned in one of the blog (Engadget/BGR/etc.) reviews.

hmm I don't remember reading that in any of the reviews

 

[zetetic13]

My understanding of how fingerprint scanning apps work is that when you swipe your finger, the app triggers the password that's stored inside the app. So while you don't have to physically re-type a bank password, it's still transmitted over the airwaves.

Your understanding is correct--and saving the password on the device for unlocking with fingerprint scanners opens up a whole new can of worms. However, using a fingerprint scanner enables you to make a password that's very horrific--four character classes, 10-15 characters long, etc.--and not have to type it in on your phone every time using the symbolset pop-out and all. This method allows one to make a stronger password with little effort.

And if you're on an open (unsecure) network, your password can still be intercepted.

That's true with anything, even on a physical network (frames aren't encrypted to switches, and ARP cache poisoning can redirect packets to an attacking computer, making it effectively like an open access point). Granted, you need to be able to plug in to a physical network to get it.

The only true safeguard against stuff like this is encrypting socket or session traffic (SSL/TLS) or tunneling over an encrypted protocol (SSH/VPN/etc.). No credible bank or merchant provides a web interface without encryption and authentication... in the latter case, it violates the PCI standards and subjects those merchants to fines; in the former, it's horrible business.

I'm just saying this all to emphasize that security should be multi-layered, and hopefully those baking sites/merchants/facebook/etc. all are using encrypted connections, so you don't have to rely on the security of the network.

 

[Kaiu]

I too purchased an Inspire when it came out. I really like this phone compared to my Captivate but have run into a few problems.

First off connecting the phone to my car deck via USB, results in my phone stuck in a permanent reboot cycle. It didn't matter which setting I had my phone set for USB the result was the same. Second, I am unable to send or receive messages on the phone. Lastly, I too was aware of the small battery but was hoping it wouldn't drain as fast as it does.

I actually like the screen size, works fantastic with SWYPE and the audio quality/call quality was great.

However, due mainly to the USB not working with my car and the battery life I will be returning it to pick up the Atrix. I am hesitant though with this decision because Motorola likes to lockdown their phones on a carrier that also doesn't like user freedom with android. I am confidant that the people over at xda will work something out though.

 

[Donatron]

I said this in the inspire forum and got ripped. I will say it again here... the battery blows!! So does the fm radio reception.

The fanbois over at the Inspire forums are a whole other breed. They're worse than the apple guys. I got fed up with them and stopped posting there. And this was before I planned to switch to the Atrix.

 

[Zonker1]

The fanbois over at the Inspire forums are a whole other breed. They're worse than the apple guys. I got fed up with them and stopped posting there. And this was before I planned to switch to the Atrix.

It's like a cult over there. I am convinced the ringleader is either an HTC employee, or is out of his mind.

I am really having a hard time deciding whether to keep the Inspire or move to the Atrix. I really love the screen size of the Atrix. But the battery life really is not good. My battery has improved since Sunday, but it still is not even decent.

As far as the Atrix goes, I don't care if the bootloader is locked down tight. I had more than enough flashing ROMs and modems on the Captivate to last me a lifetime. I have no desire to root my Inspire, so I am sure I will feel the same with the Atrix.

For me I think it comes down to the 4.3 screen with sense 2 v. a dual core with better battery life. I am hoping after I get a chance to play with the Atrix, the decision will become obvious one way or the other.

 

[Donatron]

It's like a cult over there. I am convinced the ringleader is either an HTC employee, or is out of his mind.

That Andrea person? I'm thoroughly convinced as well.

 

[Roze]

It's like a cult over there. I am convinced the ringleader is either an HTC employee, or is out of his mind.

I am really having a hard time deciding whether to keep the Inspire or move to the Atrix. I really love the screen size of the Atrix. But the battery life really is not good. My battery has improved since Sunday, but it still is not even decent.

As far as the Atrix goes, I don't care if the bootloader is locked down tight. I had more than enough flashing ROMs and modems on the Captivate to last me a lifetime. I have no desire to root my Inspire, so I am sure I will feel the same with the Atrix.

For me I think it comes down to the 4.3 screen with sense 2 v. a dual core with better battery life. I am hoping after I get a chance to play with the Atrix, the decision will become obvious one way or the other.

Ringleader..hmm...I wonder if it's the same person I'm thinking of, lol. Usually members get a bit heated when you tell them that the phone has issues when they just bought it and are in the honeymoon stage. This is especially true if they themselves are not experiencing these issues or don't see them as issues.

 

[Zonker1]

Ringleader..hmm...I wonder if it's the same person I'm thinking of, lol. Usually members get a bit heated when you tell them that the phone has issues when they just bought it and are in the honeymoon stage. This is especially true if they themselves are not experiencing these issues or don't see them as issues.

I'm sure we are thinking of the same person lol.

Regardless, I still can't figure out why someone would care if anyone else likes a specific phone or not.

Oh well, can't wait to get a chance to play around with an Atrix. The 22nd can't come soon enough.

 

[MarcMaiden]

The Atrix is worth the exchange if you think you will use all the extras it has. Are you a heavy 3D gamer? do you do a lot of video chatting? Will you be using the laptop or HD dock? Do you prefer the larger screen or smaller screen? Do you have faith in motorola?

Those are the questions you need to ask yourself. In all honesty (even though its a pain), you can get the Atrix, and if you start to miss the inspire you can always sell the atrix, buy the inspire, and have enough money in your pocket to take you and your lovely lady out for a nice dinner.

 

[KoukiFC3S]

The first three of these differences should not, or at least minimally, impact your user experience. Android OS cannot really take advantage of multi-core processors right now. Even if Google releases 2.4 tomorrow, who knows when Motorola will push it to Motoblur phones. And I believe the Atrix can only use 512 of the RAM while in phone mode, the other 512 is for docking (I'm too lazy to cite a source for this now. But I vaguely remember reading this somewhere). And the fingerprint scanner is a nice little gizmo. Outside of the cool unlock-the-phone feature, I can't think of any apps. a person would use on a daily basis that needs a fingerprint scanner.

The 4" qHD screen and the enormous battery, however, would be something that'll impact the user experience. And don't forget the front-facing camera on the Atrix if you're a Skype, Fring, etc. user.

Anandtech did some testing and found out that 2.2 can indeed take advantage of the second processor.

 

[shawn1224]

I like the Inspire and I was initially going to do the 30 day test drive and get the Atrix but I think I'll just go ahead and buy the Atrix off contract and keep both phones.

 

[ROCer]

When the Atrix is released, play with a live Atrix at an AT&T for a bit. Go through the Motoblur Menus, load apps, load/play a couple games, hold it in your hands, etc. That should make your decision easier.

Whether you get the Atrix or stick with your Inspire, hope you enjoy your new phone

 

[shawn1224]

Yea, unless the Atrix sorely disappoints after a hands on, I won't get it but I'm sure it will be a great device. The reason I plan on getting both is because I can't imagine parting ways with the Inspire's gorgeous 4.3" screen and the all-metal casing body. Once you hold this phone you can feel the quality.

 

[Simba501]

Let's see:

- Tegra 2 vs 1 GHz Snapdragon
- 1 GB ram vs 512 MB ram
- fingerprint scanner
- qHD screen

The Atrix is obviously the superior, spec-wise, but the Inspire is no slouch either. The Inspire actually has 768mb ram.

The Sense experience is also significant. Something that the Atrix can't offer.

I, however, will be picking up an Atrix and using two devices for a while. At some point, I suppose I'll get rid of one of them. But I can't see that happening. I enjoy Sense too much and I know I can't resist the Atrix's specs.

 

[Donatron]

The Atrix is obviously the superior, spec-wise, but the Inspire is no slouch either. The Inspire actually has 768mb ram.

The Sense experience is also significant. Something that the Atrix can't offer.

I, however, will be picking up an Atrix and using two devices for a while. At some point, I suppose I'll get rid of one of them. But I can't see that happening. I enjoy Sense too much and I know I can't resist the Atrix's specs.

I remember somebody else saying that they plan on keeping both phones. So how does that work? Do you just alternate the phones every morning?

 

[TX123]

Thanks for the advice guys. I'll will probably wait for user reviews for the atrix before I make my final decision.