Today we’re looking at the Droid DNA by HTC on Verizon Wireless. Specifically, we'll be looking at how it compares to HTC's upcoming ONE smartphone with similar specs.
Click here to see a video slideshow of the DNA
The name HTC might be dominated by thoughts of “ONE” at the moment, but the ONE’s slightly older brother is HTC’s 1080p Droid DNA on Verizon. The ONE beats the DNA considering build material and camera tech but they both sport large gorgeous 1080p displays and quad core processors. The ONE has not been officially announced for Verizon and it might not be available at all considering Verizon’s handling of a certain major phone's recently botched release (Galaxy Note 2)
So are you out of luck if your “trapped” in verizon’s contractual deathgrip? The Aluminum body is beautiful and the Ultrapixel camera tech that HTC is touting is impressive to be sure. The DNA has a larger screen though and even though the ONE has an updated version of Sense, expect the DNA to get an update within it’s lifetime. The two phones both feature quad core processors, 2gb of ram, NFC, and Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX. Both also feature beats audio drivers, but you’ll be getting a lot more out of those using the ONE’s stereo speakers. I’ve complained for years sense my old Samsung Omnia II. Stereo speakers make sense in cell phones, manufacturers leave them out to sell accessories, It’s a problem.
Finally, a slightly larger battery on the ONE (2300mAh vs. 2020mAh on the DNA) should help power all that future tech. Using the DNA though, it is clear that HTC has put some time into fine tuning power management in their current phones. Early concerns of the DNA and it’s 1080p screen being a battery hog are premature. The phone lasts for a full day more or less in my testing.
Which phone is right for you? It depends. You won’t be disappointed with the DNA by itself, but next to the ONE it’s lacking in a couple spots. The good news though if youre stuck with Verizon, the price of the DNA will only drop with the release of the ONE. You’ll be able to get a great phone for a very reasonable price.
Thank you again to HTC for supplying their product for review.
Main advantage: beautiful 1080p screen, extremely thin, quad core processor
Main concern: Newly released ONE outshines it a bit, only 16gb of internal memory and no expandable memory, also has a sealed battery
Unique features: the first 1080p phone released on Verizon and wireless charging built in
How much: $199.99 on new 2yr activation/upgrade on Verizon.com
Alternatives: HTC ONE will be available on the other major US carriers but not Verizon. For the money, The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 is a great alternative
Is it worth buying: If you’re on Verizon and the Note 2 is too big for your hand then the HTC DNA is the best available option for you. HTC is known for superior build quality and its internal specs will make it a great option for years ahead.
If you haven’t, click here to see a video slideshow of the DNA
ENJOY YOUR GADGETS!
@ExaminerPhil
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