DLX will have:
-Better screen
-Higher Res Screen
-More powerful CPU/GPU
-Better build quality
Note 2 will have:
-S pen
-Better battery life (maybe?)
(all of these are subject to change)
I'm torn between the two devices myself but leaning toward the GN2.
The only attributes I will concede to the DNA is the screen and camera. Although the GN2 is outstanding in both areas the HTC One line is at the top of the class in these areas along with iphone 5. I doubt the DNA will be any worse and could be better.
Build quality is subjective and is mostly referring to materials used as opposed to quality construction of device. All the high end devices are made well but make different choices on materials and finishes. It doesn't really matter unless you carry your device undressed. I haven't carried a naked smartphone since an old BlackBerry 5 years ago. I really like the materials and finish of the RAZR Maxx HD but if I'm going to put my $700 device in a case anyway I shouldn't get all worked up over the nice Kevlar, alluminum, and Gorilla Glass. 9 out of 10 iphones I see are cased where all you see is the glass and Apple logo through a hole in the back so that's overblown.
So now we are talking about performance.
Everything I have read points to an advantage for the GN2.
Both quad-core processrs but the GN2 pushing an Exynos running at 1.6 GHz compared to Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 pro running at 1.5 GHz on the DNA.
Both have 2g of RAM but the GN2 can actually use with multi-tasking window allowing simultaneous use and view.
Then there's the larger screen and all the possibilities the S-Pen opens up. The S-Pen fits so nicely that even if it was never used it doesn't detract from the phone.
Then there's the batteries.
I currently use an HTC Thunderbolt so I know the struggles that they have had with battery life. The DNA is rumored to use a non-removable 2500 mAh battery on this 5" Super LCD 2 screen with power sucking LTE. The only way I have survived the T-bolt for 19 months is the extended battery I bought after reading reviews. I am very wary of this high powered device with only a 2500 mAh battery.
The original Galaxy Note uses a 2500 mAh battery with reasonable success but the GN2 will carry a 3100 mAh replacable battery. Accessory providers like Gorilla Gadgets make replacement batteries up to 5000 mAh for the original GN that provides a valuable option that the DNA doesn't have.
All that said, I will take a close look at both devices when they are available next month.
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