Top Android Phones 2014: HTC One (M8) Vs. Samsung Galaxy S5 Vs. Sony Xperia Z2, Which Is The Best Android Flagship Today?

Top Android phones 2014: The HTC One (M8) has just been announced, and so to complete our flagship battle, we pit it against two other fresh high-end devices Samsung's Galaxy S5 and Sony's Xperia Z2. 

So which Android flagship will get the crown this time?

Sony Xperia Z2

Sony unveiled the Xperia Z2 several weeks ago at MWC in Barcelona, but since then there has not been a lot of news about the new flagship. However, what we know right now is that it sports an impressive spec list which includes a 5.2-inch Triluminous display, a quad-core CPU clocked at 2.5GHz, Snapdragon 801 chipset, a 20.7MP camera, and a bar-like glass design. 

Looking at the Xperia Z2, it almost exactly looks like its older sibling, the Z1, but with a slightly larger display. However, Sony has definitely upped its game with 3GB of RAM, beating both the One (M8) and Galaxy S5's 2GB RAMs. It is still waterproof and dustproof like previous versions, which is an added plus to frequent travelers. 

Samsung Galaxy S5

There has been a lot of clamour en route to the Galaxy S5 launch. However, more than just a handful of bloggers and analysts were disappointed with the device's specs, and most specially its design. The 'dot-matrix' or as what HTC calls it 'bandaid' design surely does not do it any favor, though there's some hope when it comes to specs. 

The Galaxy S5 gets a 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display, which we believe is still the display to beat in the industry. It also boasts a quad-core CPU, Snapdragon 801 chipset, and a 16MP with ISOCELL tech. Samsung has also added water and dust resistance, as well as a fingerprint sensor to provide more functions to the device. 

HTC One (M8)

Considered as the worst-kept secret in mobile industry history, there is a lot to praise about the new HTC flagship, especially as far as design is concerned. The brushed metal finish that covers the phone save for the display is certainly a sight to behold. The handset's Duo Camera in front that promises two focal points for every shot is also an interesting feature, though at only 4MP, the rear shooter would surely disappoint fans who are looking for higher megapixels. Fortunately, the Taiwanese manufacturer has made up for it with its 5MP front-facing cam. 

Unfortunately, that may be all there is to say about the HTC flagship. Specs such as its improved battery life and Snapdragon 801 are notable, but overall it keeps the 1080p resolution, quad-core CPU frequency, and even the RAM size. So far, the HTC One (M8) will only appeal to two market groups - those who prefer better premium design, and those who are loyal HTC fans. 

Verdict

As far as specs goes, Sony's Xperia Z2 is the clear winner with its all-around performance and functions. However, when we look at features, apps and software, the Galaxy S5 brings its fingerprint sensor and heart rate monitor to the table. As for HTC's All New One (M8), well, it's probably the best designed phone among the three if only the HTC logo did not take up so much space at the bottom. 

Both the HTC and Samsung flagships are already available for pre-order, we just have to wait until Sony releases the Z2 for the international market.