Windows Phone 8: A Comparative Review of HTC 8S and Lumia 820

When choosing a Windows Phone 8, one might find themselves torn between the HTC 8S and the Lumia 820. Both devices offer impressive features and reasonable prices, but personal experiences can vary. This review aims to provide an honest and informed comparison based on my observations and those of a fellow user.

HTC 8S: Reliability and Affordability

Among the two, the HTC 8S stands out as my top recommendation. My brother has been using this phone for several months, and he has not encountered any significant issues. One of the main reasons I believe the HTC 8S is the best choice is because of its reasonable price and solid performance. The HTC 8S is not just affordable; it also offers a reliable user experience, which is precious when dealing with daily tasks and occasional gaming. It strikes a perfect balance between affordability and functionality, making it a standout option in the Windows Phone 8 lineup.

Lumia 820: A Mixed Experience

For those inclined to explore the Lumia 820, it's important to be aware of some potential drawbacks. Despite the device's robust features, such as MixRadio and Nokia Maps, and the fact that it was initially loaded with awesome goodies, several issues surfaced during its use by my husband. These included battery drain, heating, and one of the headphone issues, which I'll delve into further.

Battery Drain and Functionality

One of the most significant issues encountered with the Lumia 820 was battery drain. When my husband was actively texting, the battery would deplete within four hours, which is an understated problem, especially for those who rely heavily on mobile communication. Additionally, the battery would drain at a faster rate when using 3G, an issue that could be frustrating for frequent users.

Unexpected Hardware Failures

A more serious issue arose when the phone stopped charging on a fine morning. Although no water damage or physical impact was evident, the unit refused to charge. This led us to seek professional help, but the experience wasn't smooth. Nokia Care, the official support, replaced the phone after a month of drama and contention. The new device, however, seemed to be a refurbished unit, which could give potential buyers pause.

Post-Update Bugs and Customer Service Concerns

To add to the woes, a bug was discovered, where the headphones would only function correctly when pulled out slightly, and the volume would become abnormally low. Unfortunately, the only solution involves a lengthy reboot, which is inconvenient. This issue appeared after the 8.1 update, suggesting a possible update-driven problem.

Customer Service Experience

The customer service experience with Nokia Care was less than satisfactory. Persistent issues with frequent flashings and extended waiting periods led to a feeling of discomfort and distrust. Multiple times, my husband was asked to keep the device for weeks on end only to be informed that nothing could be done. The overall portrayal of the support team could be seen as careless and, at times, inconsiderate.

Verdict and Alternatives

Based on both personal and second-hand experiences, my advice would be to avoid making a hasty decision with the Lumia 820. It might be a problem with a specific device, but given the potential issues and the unsatisfactory communication experience, it's better to be cautious.

Speaking of alternatives, the Lumia 620 is also worth considering. Relatively new in the market, the Lumia 620 offered a better user experience for my husband when compared to the HTC 8S. The 620 featured nearly 720 MB of usable space after installation and system usage, which allowed for smoother operations without the need to regularly delete apps or save media files externally. Despite the 4GB memory being compromised by system usage, the overall experience was charming, and we subsequently chose this model for our needs.

To add, the RRAM and processor speed, while not insignificant, have minimal impact on the performance of modern Windows Phone 8 devices unless you are into heavy gaming. Most users will find that the phone runs smoothly and efficiently regardless of these parameters.

If you're considering a Windows Phone 8 and are open to solutions for the mentioned issues, please feel free to reach out and share any insights or suggestions. Your feedback can be invaluable to other potential buyers.