Samsung entered the world of curved displays as far back as 2013, unveiling devices that include televisions and smartwatches. The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge stands as the brand’s second smartphone equipped with a curved screen featuring an asymmetrical design. It closely mirrors the design and hardware of the Samsung Note 4, with the main difference being the curved display on the side, which is what gives it its name. Targeted at the high-end smartphone market, the Note Edge comes with robust hardware, sensors such as heart rate and UV, as well as an impressive camera.
**Design:**
The Galaxy Note Edge showcases a luxurious design with a refined aluminum frame that fulfills both visual and functional roles, accommodating antennas. Although the back cover is made of plastic, it imitates leather. Samsung has kept the hardware “Home” button along with two touch buttons for multitasking and going “back.” The “Home” button houses a fingerprint sensor, which regrettably operates ineffectively, akin to the Note 4’s sensor. The S Pen stylus, situated at the bottom, offers fascinating features such as Air Command, which can be challenging to operate with one hand. Thankfully, the touchscreen can be turned off while using the stylus.
Enhanced from the Note 4, the user experience is notable. The curved edge can showcase shortcuts and notifications. While viewing a video, controls and the playback bar appear on this side section. The Note Edge comes in black and white.
**Display:**
The screen is marginally smaller than the Note 4 by 0.1 inches and is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, housing an AMOLED display. Initially, it may seem awkward to grasp due to its shape, but the design facilitates quick access to commonly used apps or alerts with a simple swipe along the edge screen. The side panels are customizable, though not every application can be incorporated.
**CPU, GPU, and Memory:**
The Note Edge is powered by a Quad-core 2.7 GHz processor and an Adreno 420 GPU. It offers two storage options, 32GB or 64GB, each with 3GB of RAM and supports microSD cards up to 128GB. The smartphone operates smoothly, whether it’s for work, browsing the internet, or gaming.
**Camera and Sensors:**
With a 16MP camera, it accurately captures colors and can record in full HD at 60 fps or 4K at 30 fps. The front-facing camera features 3.7MP. Beneath the camera resides a heart rate sensor—typically found on fitness trackers or smartwatches—yet valuable on a smartphone due to the lack of alternatives. Utilizing the S Health app allows you to gauge your heart rate. The device is also equipped with an accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass, barometer, gesture sensors, and a UV sensor. When outside, pointing the device towards the sun indicates UV radiation levels and safety warnings.
**Software:**
Operating on Android 4.4.4, upgradable to Android 5, with Samsung’s TouchWiz interface, it includes split-screen features and a multitasking button for navigating apps.
**Battery and Lifetime:**
The device contains a 3000 mAh battery, providing roughly a day’s usage under normal conditions, and supports fast charging (approximately 50% in 30 minutes).
**Samsung Galaxy Note Edge vs. Samsung Galaxy Note 4:**
Variations include a slightly smaller 5.6-inch display on the Note Edge compared to the Note 4’s 5.7-inch screen, a 3000 mAh battery versus 3220 mAh, and minor dimensional differences. The weight difference is negligible, with the Note Edge at 174g, just 2 grams lighter. Differences in color selections feature the Note Edge in two hues as opposed to the Note 4’s six. The hardware remains largely comparable, with slight distinctions in processing capabilities and graphics chips.
**Pros:**
– Excellent display.
– Superior camera quality.
– UV, gesture, and heart-rate sensors.
– Curved display providing swift access to commonly used applications and notifications.
**Cons:**
– Expensive.
– Battery life is reasonable but inferior to that of the Note 4.
**Conclusion:**
Curved screens continue to be expensive to produce. If you’re drawn to the Note Edge yet can live without the curved display, the Galaxy Note 4 is approximately 1300 RON cheaper. However, for those in search of a distinctive device, the Note Edge presents a captivating option.
*The smartphone was provided for review by Quickmobile.ro. The Note Edge is available for order from QuickMobile via this [link](http://www.quickmobile.ro/telefoane/samsung/galaxy-note-edge-32gb-lte-4g-negru-96379.html).*
