I'd say first decide 3 to 4 months from now, you don't know how the smartphone will look like this spring.
Secondly, do you want to live within the android or iOS ecosystem?
Have you tried either phone, to see how it performs and feels in your hand. Ultimately the decision is up to you. People here can make all sorts of recommendations but really its up to you.
Which phone works best for you and which platform best meets your needs.
I currently have an LG Optimus One, Android 2.2 Froyo installed. I also currently have a Mid-2009 13" MBP, Snow Leopard 10.6.8 installed.
I've tried using the two phones. And I was amazed on the big screen of the Note II. I find the iPhone 5 a little bit small compared to Note II. I also love the widgets/customization of the Android. But in my opinion, iPhone 5 has more beautiful physical appearance than the Note 2.
I live here in a developing Asian country. iPhone 5 was launched in the US Dec 21. It was launched here 3 months after.
Remember that in 4 months the galaxy s4 is propably gonna be out 🙂 with 5" full hd screen and possibly really durable (bendable screen)
I would say if you can't wait that long go with the note 2. I used to be huge iPhone fan and now that I bought the galaxy s3 awhile ago and having used my friends note 2 and also friends iPhone 5, I would definately go with samsung 🙂 I still have my 4S but its gathering dust in the table..hope it helps..
ps. if you want any detailed experiences and reasoning why I prefer samsungs nowadays I can answer here a bit later 😛 heres a quick few points
- 4" screen is still too small and I have super small hands
- note2 and galaxy s3 feel better in my hands cuz of the curves (the build quality is better in iphone 5 though)
- android > iOS in my opinion
- touchwiz is finally good now, I actually prefer it to stock android
- burst camera shots, multiwindows and million options and cool features in galaxys
E: agree with maflynn, the ecosystem point is really good&important
and also like maflynn said its really hard for us to help you, just go to stores with an open mind and do it multiple times so you actually know what the devices are in 'real-life'.
Here's the list of what I consider for my next phone:
1. Camera. I love photography.
2. Big Display. I love watching movies.
3. Ease of use. My phone is beside me 24/7.
4. Gaming experience.
5. I also always read internet articles and PDF Books.
6. Storage capacity. I have lots of stuffs.
7. Messaging. My current phone only stores hundreds of text messages. I want a phone that can store thousands of text messages.
8. Compatibility to my Mac.
6. Lastly, the prestige of having a cool phone.
😎
I don't have a tablet. Note 2 is a phablet which gives it additional points.
But I know Apple makes great products. I mean, my Mac is still fast after 3 years. Not to mention it still runs Snow leopard. I'm thinking that if I buy an iPhone, I can use it for at least 3 years considering Apple's build quality and great software support.
If I buy a new phone next year, my next update will be on 2016.
