Samsung Galaxy S5

“The software and the many different modes of operation are unmatched. The Galaxy S5 supports most networks, almost all GPS satellite systems, and offers connectivity to the outside world through numerous channels, while ensuring good signal strength in the process. The display is extraordinary and the camera captures detailed images with interesting background blur effects.While the case doesn't look quite as upscale as the one HTC uses for the One M8, it is dust and water resistant. The speaker system pales in comparison to HTC's implementation, however. Serviceability is pretty mediocre as well, but at least the battery can be swapped out.Those who own the S4 don't necessarily need to upgrade. Users in the market for a high-end smartphone should definitely take a good look at the Galaxy S5. The feature set is simply outstanding - even weeks down the line, the user might stumble upon new and useful features. Operation is extremely intuitive and doesn't overwhelm the operator. Samsung does an outstanding job balancing both features and functionality.”

“The Samsung Galaxy S5 is the fastest, most functional smartphone available today. It has the best screen, the best Wi-Fi performance, and the best camera for an Android phone (outpaced only by the Nokia PureView camera). Samsung dialed back its software excesses to produce a lively phone that's more fun to use than the previous model. Samsung still doesn't quite get how Americans perceive style, though. Over and over again, executives told me how warm the phone's materials are and how they follow fashion trends or emulate luxury items. But ultimately, Samsung's plastic-metal and plastic-leather are still fakery, and it shows. Nokia and LG embrace plastic more honestly, with better design results.”

“The Galaxy S5 is a beast of a smartphone and with Samsung's nearly unlimited resources to spend on marketing, it will be a miracle if it doesn't become the season's bestseller and break the records of its predecessors. And the good news is that it's got enough to offer that will bolster the brand image rather than just live off it.”

“The Galaxy S5 is a bit like a Corvette - if you can get past the plastic and the stigma (TouchWiz), it really is a great high-end smartphone. Well, it isn't as pretty as a Corvette I suppose. Well, maybe as pretty as a C4. Between the display, the camera, the water-resistance, and the battery life, Samsung builds a strong case on the merits for the S5. More than anything, Samsung's software and build materials keep away the naysayers, and there really isn't enough change on those fronts to bring around the diehard haters. But if you're concerned less with the aesthetic and philosophy and more with the on-the-ground experience, I think the Galaxy S5 will be a pleasant surprise, even for Samsung skeptics. It's not revolutionary, but Samsung shows that even when they're not trying to change the game, they can still legitimately improve in areas where some of their competitors are stagnating. All that said, the S5 still isn't ideal. The lack of storage, the cheap plastic, Samsung's overloaded software, and its less-than-lightning-quick history with OS updates are all things to consider. If you're holding out for a more stock experience or premium materials, I'd wait and see what Motorola and LG are going to do. For the time being, though, I think this is the best Android phone you can buy on an all things considered level.”