Android Phones
T-Mobile G2X vs. HTC Sensation: which phone should I buy? [Comparison]
April 20, 2011 | by Andrew Kameka
HTC, LG, T-Mobile
Today marks a special day on the calendars of T-Mobile customers interested in Android phones and tablets. April 20 is the day when they have to make the decision to upgrade to the heart-racing speed of the T-Mobile G2X or wait for the beauty of the HTC Sensation slated to arrive this summer. It’s a tough decision that T-Mobile fans will make today, and that’s not even including folks who may be interested in the also-launching T-Mobile Sidekick 4G.
Last year, Androinica.com did a spec comparison to determine what’s the best phone on T-Mobile. That was for people who needed a phone right away, and didn’t take into account the new Android options now available or coming soon. Considering the advancements offered by these new devices, now seems like a good time to revisit that question among the new additions.
Once again, our mission remains the same. We’re not out to determine the best Android phone on T-Mobile as a matter of fact. Rather, we’re trying to look at features and help readers figure out what’s the best phone for their needs and their tastes. Let’s take a look.
T-Mobile G2X
The T-Mobile G2X is a peculiar best. It has many of the key qualifications necessary to be crowned a “next-gen” phone – dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 2 chipset that pumps out incredible graphics and short response times; a 4 inch WVGA screen that will be just the right size for media-friendliness and portability; and a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera perfect for video chat.
However, it’s running old-gen software by launching with Android 2.2 rather than Android 2.3, which has been available to manufacturers for several weeks. That’s disappointing, but at least users can take solace in the fact that the G2X is running stock Android software, meaning it has the simple interface and speed that comes when someone doesn’t have to worry about manufacturer interference.
The G2X has good gaming, multimedia, and storage credentials that will go a long way among Android fans. LG designed a very nice shell for the device and T-Mobile was wise to deliver the Optimus 2X running standard software that will make this a crowd pleaser. People best suited to purchase this phone are hardcore Android enthusiasts, folks who love “Vanilla” Android, and people who place speed and battery life above all else. The upgrade potential seems promising, so a push to Gingerbread or whatever Android 2.4 is called seems in the cards.
Advantages
- Stock UI and promised support from Cyanogen Mod
- Has Tegra 2 chipset that is optimized and targeted by many game developers
- 8GB of internal storage bests Sensation’s 1GB
The HTC Sensation
T-Mobile never got that EVO-like phone that people so hoped for, and people looking for an EVO 3D variant will once again have to turn to Sprint or be disappointed. But don’t for a second think that the HTC Sensation isn’t likely to offer an experience that’s likely to hold up against the competition.
Of course, the repeated use of the word “likely” presents a problem for T-Mobile customers. They won’t know for sure if this is the right phone for them because they have to wait until T-Mobile confirms when the phone will arrive. It’s a disappointing waiting game but the release window shouldn’t be more than a few months long if T-Mobile wants this device to be a success.
Is it worth waiting? The Sensation specs may change upon release, but one disappointing feature is that it has only 1 GB of internal storage, meaning that you have far less space for apps and stored items than the G2X (8 GB). However, there are plenty of reasons to believe that the Sensation will live up to its name. The phone has a 4.3-inch SLCD screen with qHD, which will provide a prettier screen reinforced by Corning’s tough Gorilla Glass. There’s also a new version of Sense with better animations, more media options, and intuitive apps, powered by a hulking Qualcomm MSM 8260 dual-core processor cranked up to 1.2 GHz.
People who love appearance will probably rate the Sense 3.0-powered Sensation as the best option. The UI tweaks look better than stock Android, the lock-screen is much cooler than what we’ve seen before, and the higher resolution makes for a top-notch display. On paper, the Sensation seems good enough to wait for, and that’s exactly what you should do if you’re interested in a phone that’s as strong as it is sexy.
Advantages
- Beautiful Sense 3.0 interface and features
- Bigger screen with larger resolution
- MLH serves as HDMI and charges phone at the same time
The T-Mobile G2X and HTC Sensation are both incredible phones. The G2X is the better option if gaming is a priority and you want a phone in the immediate future. The Sensation is the better option if you don’t like stock Android or want a phone with tons of tweaks and valuable feature add-ons. Here’s a quick comparison chart showing how each phone stacks up against the other.
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Definitely waiting for the Sensation. Perfect replacement for my N1. Until now haven't seen anything to touch it.
Just an FYI, the LG G2x uses Gorilla Glass too: http://www.corninggorillaglass.com/#featured-prod…
No it doesn't!!!! re-read you own link you provided. Nowhere does it show the G2X as having gorilla glass. The only LG devices with Gorilla Glass are: LG: Ally, Arena, Arena TV, Crystal, LG Mini, Maxx, New Chocolate, Ophone, Optimus 2X, Optimus 7, Optimus Mach, Optimus Q, Optimus Z, Viewty Smart, X300
Perhaps you mistaked the Optimus 2x for the LG G2X
loll the optimus 2x is the same as the g2x ..the g2x is the name for the US version of the european LG optimus 2x
The G2X doesnt look that bad. But i would go for the HTC Sensation any day, great looking phone.
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The bottom line is that the G2X is simply a better phone. It looks sexier, has a better processor, (dual core ARM A9 in the Tegra 2, vs. the outdated dual core ARM A8 in the Sensation) better GPU, IPS display, (same display as in iPhone 4, just not quite the same resolution) Vanilla Android, Better camera, it is just hands down a better phone. People see 4.3" screen, and 1.2ghz processor, and automatically think "better". Dig a little deeper people, and do some research for Christ's sake. The G2X is already out, and is hands down better.
I have the G2x and I disagree with you.
Why? What don't you like about it, @jeremy480?
So you disagree that the Sensation uses an outdated ARM A8 processor overclocked to 1.2ghz to achieve the same performance as the Tegra 2? You disagree that the 8 CORE NVIDIA GPU in the G2X is more powerful than the Adreno GPU on the Sensation? Other than the display being .3 inches bigger on the Sensation, I just simply cannot understand your logic. Now if you just simply prefer an HTC handset over an LG handset, then I respect your decision completely. I just chalk that up to personal preference. But to say that the LG doesn't have superior hardware specs when the facts state otherwise is just silly. BTW, I also have a G2X. In the end it is all up to personal preference though. Some people just prefer HTC products. But don't say you disagree because the specs are better when they simply are not.
I have a G2x, and I disagree whole-heartedly. The G2x looks really nice on paper — it's faster, has better graphics, may have a better camera, and has stock Android — but when you actually get the thing, you find out that the radio is really weak — it can't hold a cellular signal. No problem, right? The thing has WiFi calling, and you can solve reception issues using that. Except that WiFi doesn't work. It keeps getting in a state after being idle for about 15 minutes where it either refuses to use WiFi and tries to use the 3G/4G network instead, or its DNS stops working and you can't browse to any site unless you enter the plain IP address instead of the DNS name. So yeah, it's got a fast processor and a great camera, but it fails at being either a phone or a web browsing device. I'm probably going to return this and wait for HTC.
Mine doesn't have any of those problems. It connects to my router and gets 30 mbs download speeds while doing so. I get a stronger signal than my N1 and Vibrant did. I think you got a bad one. I guess you just don't understand there is going to be bad phones in every bunch. Glad I didn't get a bad one.
what about the ram on the sensation being 768? people say it is due to needing to run htc sense…
I actually owned a G2X for a week, and had a new problem every day. The ARM A8 processor in the sensation is an updated dual core even though it does seem to be A8. So as far as it goes I had a G2X, and I took it back! Oh and if you look through these comments I am not the only one with the same issues. My phone about every 16 hours would pop up as not registered on the network. The Wireless and the cellular 2g as well as 3G would not connect, they also replaced two sim cards in 7 days. This LG phone has issues as stated here by several users.
are you stupid?
It actually has issues (g2X) I returned mine today too with lots of bugs overheating,wireless not working ,random reboots and many more. Overall it has great potential but its clotted with many bugs (apparently the issues are the 2.2) I also got the HTC feels better with zero bugs
The atrix runs moto blur which is fucking garbage and the bootloader is locked up which means its pretty much unhackable. That's why nobody gives a shit about it.
Well than prepare to not give a shit about the HTC Sensation as it's most likely going to have a locked bootloader as well.
just out of curiosity, how is the camera better on the g2x than the htc sensation?
I don't necessarily think it is. There are a couple videos online where the g2x camera looks better. But there are also videos where the Sensation's camera looks better. it's just a matter of preference.
thanks for sharing the observation. since photo quality on a phone is #1 followed by battery life to me. I already have the g2x on hand as of yesterday, but I won''t have it anymore if I decide to return it before my grace period to try out the Sensation. What a dilemma! Help!
Just say the G2x advertised for $100 – http://bit.ly/g2x-100
Nice article! Please make a general comparison article between all the dual-core devices!
What about the Sensation having 2.3 vs. 2.2? What about the Sensation having a 540 by 960 screen vs. 480 by 800? What about the Sensation having dual led flash vs. single flash? What about the sensation having Adobe 10.2 vs. 10.1? What about the Sensation having a SuperLcd screen vs. reg. lcd screen? What about the Sensation having Sense 3.0 vs. NO UI at all? Are you for real?
Word!!!
What about the Sensation having a locked boot loader, what about the Sensation having only 1gb of memory, what about the Sensation having Sense (thats a con for me since I hate it). Seriously, you can find personal preference flaws in every device. By the way, just because something has duel LED flash doesn't make it brighter. How do you know LG didn't use a brighter LED than HTC? Lastly, the SGII will blow both of these devices out of the water.
no more locked boot loader look it up
LOL you're so ignorant. HTC said no more locked bootloaders.
I can tell you right now, there isn't any HTC phones being released this year that can hold a candle to the SGII.
I haven't looked into the SGII too much for one simple reason. I have the Samsung Vibrant and I was very disappointed in how fast they decided to offer software upgrades. I mean common Samsung.. 2.2 took how long to come out? I'm not saying that the SGII will be the exact same thing, but for me just the fact that it has the Samsung name worries me.
I would be more worried about a locked bootloader than relying on a company to push updates out. I had the Vibrant to and it was running Froyo by August. The only thing I didn't like about my Vibrant was the GPS but all of the reviews so far said the GS II has good GPS.
My G2x has nightly CM7 build #3 on it right now 2.3.3 and it flies. If your a Nexus lover this is your phone. I have not had an issue with it at all and I'm sure once CM7 with 2.3.4 stable is out the Sensation or SG2 won't touch it. For me the 4.3 is just too big.
It's simple, the reason is AT&T!
the Motorola Atrix doesn't hold a candle to the G2X i tested both phones, motoblur slows down the phone itself, it was pretty much garbage to me. I still have the G2X and still debating if i should get the Sensation when it releases, and sell my G2X, but If is basicly the same I don't see why would I switch. the Galaxy S 2 is a monster phone, but we don't know when will it release in the US market. so far is going to be release in Europe. Anyhow I recommend the G2X to any user the phone is awesome, and so far I have not experienced lag on websites or scrolling.
I am totally looking at both of these phones. I currently own the Nexus One got it as a gift from a relative who works for Google. I have owned the G1, Mytouch 3G, and Nexus One, my girlfriend owns the Nexus S.
IMO:
G2X- Very stock, very fast, very simple, totally customizable, cyan support.
Sensation- Out of the box a very pretty phone. This phone is for those who dont really want to root their phone or go crazy with it. Its perfect as is. The 1gb internal storage is the only real disappointment.
Note: For those of you that want to own the sensation get the g2x and just deal with the slightly smaller screen size and flash a sense ui rom(3.0) from cyan.
I believe the G2X tegra proc is faster than the 1.2 qualcomm on the sensation, havnt benchmarked yet but I am pretty sure its better all the way around tegra def better for graphics.
I want both phones today, but am really scratching my head on this one. I like flashing my phone so I might call tmobile tonight. Thx for letting me talk myself into it.
i am going to try out both phones and decide which one i like better. i am getting the g2x this week, then when the sensation launches i will check that one out as well. both phones are monsters, but i still don't think either will live up to the samsung galaxy s2. although, i read a review on the sensation, and even though it didn't score quite the scores of the galaxy s2, it performed just as good, a little better at times in the real world. i need a new phone this week, so i will take advantage of the remorse time and take both the g2x and sensation out for a spin.
Had the G2x for about 10 days now. Looks great! Feels great! Works like a lemon! That's right, it's a lemon. Is it just me? No it is not. Go to xda and see all the big problems this crap device has. Bad cell radios, bad wifi, random reboots and crashes, overheats, terrible battery life etc., etc. Thankfully I have a 30 return from Costco. June 8 I drop this junk for an HTC Sensation. Until then, I'm using the MUCH more reliable Vibrant.
I have G2X, 2nd time after replacement. I thought 2nd phone will be better, but not. Same problem, restarts, freeze etc , but after root phone works much better since I was able to kill T-mobile bloatware with Titanium backup, but still has problems with restart. This software couldn't pass any normal company, but somehow LG agreed to send it out. Without 2.3 Android this phone is really very expensive lemon… I'll wait a little bit more for Cyanogen stable mod, but I may go for that Sensation. I think that phone call quality on HTC devices are much better. This is my 1st LG smartphone, always had HTC before. My ex G2 had great phone call quality, my Nexus one was too loud with Cyan, I had to keep it on 50%. Great phone, just bottom button and dust under screen problem. However G2X has great hardware, I just hop I'll get some mod soon.
I had the G2X for two weeks, and returned it today for the HTC Sensation. Had a few probs with freezing on the G2X, but not as often as others are saying. It did all I asked (except play live vid on MLB At Bat, which has poor support… MLB's fault, not the device), but overall G2X just wasn't as "fun" as the Sensation. I already love the Sensation way more. Don't know if it's android 2.3 over 2.2 or HTC's mod to the OS, but it's just a lot more friendly and the multi-desktops are much better. Love it! BTW, MLB At Bat doesn't play live games on the Sensation either (LAME!), but hopefully they'll add support soon.
Me and my wife just returned 2 G2x phones, after getting them replaced due to screen bleeding and restarts, and a ridiculously bad battery life. We switched them out for the Sensations last night, and we are really happy of the change.
The G2x is blazingly fast for sure, faster than the Sensation, but not by too much. Also, the G2x has a larger internal memory which is great also. Beyond that though, the Sensation is a much better phone, if you don't plan on rooting.
I can't say how the G2x would run on Gingerbread or rooted though. Gingerbread may just fix the restarts and battery life, but I doubt the screen bleeding will be fixed, since that's a hardware issue. All 4 of the G2x phones we had all had screen bleeding that was more than noticeable.
T-Mobile claims that the G2x does WiFi sharing. Anyone familiar with this? Does the Sensation support the same feature? I have a couple WiFi tablets, and I'd love to set up my phone as the AP. The Sensation seems like a better phone for me, but will it support that feature? Also, anyone tried the WiFi calling on the Sensation? Does it switch over to the cell network if you have to leave your WiFi range? Like if you start a call at home, but have to jump in the car, will the call disconnect?
yes the phone will disconnect, and after a minute the bars will come back so you can call back the person you were talking to.
For when you are using the WIFi the phones radios are turned off.
wifi sharing (hotspot) works like a dream…the sensation has only one real issue..speaker volume, and that is solved with Volume +
hmmmn owned both..
g2x very fast and customizable..sensation, feels and performs much the same…
it's personal..get a good g2x and you won't be disappointed, as is true of the sensation..both great devices imho….
Oh gps works on sensation…rarely on g2x…
have sensation not happy with the vol thinking about going with the g2x
I will go with HTC, waiting to get one this week. G2x is like a super car, but not suitable for driving everyday. On the other hand HTC is a BMW or Mercedes that it looks nice and you can drive daily.
I've been on the fence for an upgrade for a bit now, and I think both this article, some of these comments, and other negative comments I've heard about the G2X (which I was seriously considering) may have swung me over the the Sensation. Own an original MyTouch G3 now. I'll deal with learning Sense, as much as I love Vanilla Android.
I've had the g2x for about 2 weeks now and i love it………….freezes a little but i haven't had a touch screen that didn't yet. i love the feel of the phone & the performance. carmera is great, takes clear and beautiful pics & videos. if you like the animations on the sensation, you can get the same animations for the g2x by downloading go launcher ex or adw launcher. beautiful phone period!!
The HTC Sensation SUCKS!!!! I had nothing but problems from low batterie power to no signal in my house to constant rebooting. I get signal in my home with every other phone I have ever had. The phone looks great but works horribly. Anyone who upgrades to this phone is going to regret it.
Very happy with the G2x. Still one of the best gaming phones, period. Even the SGS2 has faster production benchmarks but is surpassed in gaming. Just make sure you get a phone made recently. It is to my understanding that all the phones made before and during the pull was bad but the ones after the re-release were fine. Shame this phone had such a rough start. If you check the dates of the complaints the were prior to the re-release.
you can not get the same beautiful sense animation that sense 3.0 has from either go launcher or adw launcher not even from beautiful widgets at that. any of those does not even come close to the sense 3.0 UI. I had the atrix which is way better than the g2x hands down overclocked it to 1.3ghz then switched to the sensation which is what I'm using now . and mind you I'm still on at&t. my sensation is unlocked running android revolution hd. overclocked to 1.5ghz and still have plenty of room to go upto 2.0 GHz per core. kept it at 2.GHz for a week with no overheating and not one problem. though battery life does get shortened a couple of hours or maybe its just coz I'm on WiFi most of the time. but any person with more than half a brain working that compares both phones stock on stock would know that the sensation is the better phone. and yes I have both the sensation and the g2x.
You said it man, I agree!
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