Choosing between two top-tier smartphones can be a daunting task, especially when they represent different philosophies of mobile technology. The Nexus 6, a pure Android experience, and the Samsung Galaxy Note 5, a powerhouse of productivity and premium features, were both giants in their day.
For those still weighing their options or simply curious about how these titans stacked up, this comparison dives deep into what made each device stand out. We’ll explore their strengths, weaknesses, and the unique user experiences they offered.
Get ready to see how the Nexus 6 and the Note 5 competed head-to-head, helping you understand their legacy and potential appeal even now.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | nexus 6 | note 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.96 inches | 5.7 inches |
| Display Resolution | 1440 x 2560 pixels | 1440 x 2560 pixels |
| Display Type | AMOLED | Super AMOLED |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 | Exynos 7420 |
| RAM | 3 GB | 4 GB |
| Internal Storage | 32GB / 64GB | 32GB / 64GB |
| Expandable Storage | No | No |
| Rear Camera | 13 MP, OIS | 16 MP, OIS |
| Front Camera | 2 MP | 5 MP |
| Battery Capacity | 3220 mAh | 3000 mAh |
| Operating System | Android (Stock) | Android (TouchWiz) |
| Water Resistance | No | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Nexus 6: Features a 5.96-inch AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels. This offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, but the large size can be unwieldy for some users.
- Note 5: Boasts a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels. It provides excellent sharpness and color reproduction, and its slightly smaller size makes it more manageable than the Nexus 6.
- Winner: Note 5
Processor & Performance
- Nexus 6: Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 quad-core processor clocked at 2.7 GHz, paired with 3GB of RAM. It offers very smooth performance for most tasks and gaming, though it can sometimes run warm under heavy load.
- Note 5: Equipped with an Exynos 7420 octa-core processor (quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & quad-core 2.1 GHz Cortex-A57) and 4GB of RAM. This configuration delivers exceptional speed and multitasking capabilities, handling demanding applications with ease.
- Winner: Note 5
Camera
- Nexus 6: Features a 13MP rear camera with OIS and a 2MP front-facing camera. The rear camera captures decent photos in good lighting, but struggles in low-light conditions and lacks advanced features.
- Note 5: Comes with a 16MP rear camera with OIS and a 5MP front-facing camera. The Note 5’s camera excels in image quality, offering sharp details, good color accuracy, and impressive low-light performance.
- Winner: Note 5
Battery Life
- Nexus 6: Equipped with a 3220 mAh non-removable battery. It generally provides a full day of moderate use, but heavy users might find themselves reaching for a charger before the day is out.
- Note 5: Has a 3000 mAh non-removable battery. Battery life is adequate for most users, though it’s not class-leading and might fall short for power users, especially given its premium features.
- Winner: Nexus 6
Storage Options
- Nexus 6: Available in 32GB and 64GB internal storage options, with no microSD card slot. This offers a decent amount of space for most users, but it’s not expandable.
- Note 5: Comes in 32GB and 64GB internal storage variants, also without microSD support. The lack of expandable storage is a notable drawback for those who store a lot of media.
- Winner: Tie
Stylus Support (S Pen)
- Nexus 6: Does not feature any stylus support. It is designed for touch input only.
- Note 5: Integrates Samsung’s signature S Pen stylus, offering precise input, note-taking, and creative capabilities. This is a major differentiator for users who value productivity and digital artistry.
- Winner: Note 5
Build Quality & Design
- Nexus 6: Features a plastic unibody design with a curved back for comfort. While solid, it lacks the premium feel found in some competitors.
- Note 5: Utilizes a premium glass and metal construction, giving it a sleek and high-end aesthetic. The design is elegant but can be slippery and prone to fingerprints.
- Winner: Note 5
Software Experience
- Nexus 6: Runs on stock Android, offering a clean, bloatware-free experience with timely updates directly from Google. This appeals to purists who prefer a straightforward OS.
- Note 5: Runs on Android with Samsung’s TouchWiz overlay. While it offers many features and customization options, some users find it less streamlined than stock Android.
- Winner: Nexus 6
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | Tie |
| Performance | Note 5 |
| Camera | Note 5 |
| Battery Life | Nexus 6 |
| Software Experience | Nexus 6 (Pure Android) / Note 5 (Feature-rich) |
| Productivity | Note 5 |
| Design & Build | Note 5 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Quality: Both devices boast stunning QHD resolutions on their respective AMOLED displays, delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
- Performance: Equipped with powerful processors and ample RAM, both the Nexus 6 and Note 5 offer smooth multitasking and responsive app performance for demanding users.
- Camera Capabilities: Each phone features optical image stabilization (OIS) on their primary rear cameras, ensuring sharper photos and steadier videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Storage Options: Both the Nexus 6 and Note 5 come in similar internal storage configurations, providing users with choices for their apps, photos, and videos, though neither offers expandable storage.
- Build Materials: While their designs differ, both phones utilize premium materials, aiming for a high-end feel in hand.
Nexus 6 Vs Note 5 Buying Guide
For the Pure Android Enthusiast
If your priority is an unadulterated Android experience, the Nexus 6 stands out. As a Google flagship, it receives timely software updates directly from Google, ensuring you’re always on the latest version with the newest features and security patches. This is ideal for users who value stock Android’s clean interface and rapid access to new innovations without manufacturer skins.
The Nexus 6 also offers a large display for immersive media consumption and a generally smooth performance for everyday tasks. Its open nature makes it a favorite for developers and tinkerers who enjoy customizing their devices. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
For the Productivity Powerhouse
The Samsung Galaxy Note 5 is engineered for those who demand more from their smartphone. Its integrated S Pen stylus unlocks a new level of productivity, allowing for precise note-taking, drawing, and on-screen annotation. This makes it an excellent tool for professionals, students, and creatives who need to capture ideas on the go.
Beyond the S Pen, the Note 5 boasts a premium build, a vibrant AMOLED display perfect for multitasking, and Samsung’s extensive software features like split-screen multitasking and robust camera controls. It’s a device built to handle demanding workflows.
For the Multimedia and Camera Aficionado
When it comes to visual and photographic experiences, the Note 5 often takes the lead. Its camera system is renowned for producing stunning photos with excellent detail and color reproduction, even in challenging lighting conditions. The vibrant AMOLED display also makes watching videos and viewing photos a delightful experience.
While the Nexus 6 has a capable camera, the Note 5’s advanced camera software and hardware generally provide superior image quality and more creative control. If capturing high-quality memories and enjoying them on a brilliant screen are paramount, the Note 5 is the stronger contender. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
For the Budget-Conscious Buyer
Considering these devices are no longer the latest models, price becomes a significant factor. The Nexus 6, being an older device, is likely to be found at a lower price point on the used or refurbished market. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a large-screen Android experience without breaking the bank.
However, it’s crucial to weigh the cost against the benefits. While the Nexus 6 might be cheaper, ensure its software support and overall performance still meet your needs. The Note 5, though potentially more expensive, might offer better long-term value due to its advanced features and potentially longer usable lifespan for demanding tasks.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy nexus 6 If…
- You prioritize a pure Android experience with timely updates directly from Google.
- You appreciate a larger, immersive display for media consumption and gaming.
- You’re looking for a device with a powerful, reliable processor for everyday tasks and more.
Buy note 5 If…
- You are a productivity-focused user who benefits from the integrated S Pen stylus for note-taking and precise input.
- You desire a more feature-rich software experience with Samsung’s custom UI and exclusive apps.
- You value a slightly more compact design in hand while still offering a large, high-quality screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has better battery life?
Historically, the Nexus 6 was often praised for its decent battery life, capable of lasting a full day for moderate users. The Note 5, while also offering respectable battery performance, could sometimes be a bit more power-hungry due to its more feature-rich software and brighter display. However, real-world usage can vary significantly based on individual app usage and screen-on time for both devices.
Is the S Pen on the Note 5 still relevant today?
Absolutely. The S Pen on the Note 5 remains a significant differentiator for productivity. It allows for precise input, quick note-taking directly on the lock screen, drawing, and advanced editing features. For users who rely on digital handwriting or detailed on-screen manipulation, the S Pen offers a unique and valuable functionality that the Nexus 6 simply cannot replicate. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones offer capable performance for their generation. However, the Note 5’s slightly more powerful processor and superior display, with its vibrant colors and higher resolution, often lead to a more immersive and fluid gaming experience. The Nexus 6, while still good, might show its age with graphically intensive modern games compared to the Note 5’s capabilities.
Which device receives more software updates?
The Nexus 6, as a Google Nexus device, was designed to receive prompt and direct software updates from Google. This meant it was typically among the first to get new Android versions and security patches. The Note 5, being a Samsung device, relied on Samsung for updates, which often came with a delay and were tied to Samsung’s own software overlay (TouchWiz).
Which phone has a better camera?
The Samsung Galaxy Note 5 is widely considered to have a superior camera system. It consistently produced sharper images with better color accuracy and low-light performance compared to the Nexus 6. The Note 5’s camera offered more advanced features and controls, making it the preferred choice for users who prioritize mobile photography and videography.
Final Verdict
The Nexus 6 offers a pure Android experience and timely updates, ideal for enthusiasts. However, the Samsung Galaxy Note 5 excels in productivity with its S Pen, boasts a superior camera, and delivers a more vibrant multimedia experience. For overall versatility, advanced features, and a more refined user experience, the Note 5 emerges as the more compelling choice for a wider range of users.
Winner: Note 5