Samsung Galaxy Note8 Specs Pricing and Insights

Introduction to Samsung Galaxy Note8

The Samsung Galaxy Note8 is a flagship smartphone that made its debut in 2017, setting a benchmark for high-end smartphones. Known for its large display, powerful performance, and S Pen stylus, the Note8 appealed to users wanting a versatile device capable of multitasking and productivity.

Design and Build Quality

The Galaxy Note8 boasts a sleek, sophisticated design with a glass front and back, framed by durable aluminum. Its dimensions measure 162.5 x 74.8 x 8.6 mm and it weighs 195 g, making it a substantial yet comfortable device to handle. The phone is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back, ensuring durability against scratches and impacts. Users could choose between Single SIM or Hybrid Dual SIM models, further enhancing its versatility.

Display Features

A standout feature of the Note8 is its 6.3-inch Super AMOLED display, which offers vibrant HDR10 visuals. The screen-to-body ratio is an impressive 83.2%, and the QHD+ resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels results in a pixel density of approximately 521 ppi. This ensures crisp, clear images and videos, whether watching media or engaging in gaming.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Galaxy Note8 is powered by the Exynos 8895 chipset for the EMEA regions and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 in the USA and China. Both variants are designed using a 10 nm process, delivering efficiency alongside powerful performance. The CPU structure varies accordingly, with the EMEA sporting an octa-core combination of Mongoose M2 and Cortex-A53 cores, whereas the USA/China version uses Kryo cores. The Mali-G71 MP20 handles graphics tasks for EMEA, while the Adreno 540 takes charge in the USA/China.

Memory and Storage

The Note8 comes with ample memory options. Users can select from variants with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage, all paired with 6GB of RAM. Additionally, the dual SIM model includes a slot for a microSDXC card, allowing for expandable storage, which is a significant benefit for users needing extra space for media and applications.

Camera Capabilities

The Note8 is equipped with a dual-camera system at the back, featuring two 12 MP sensors. The primary wide sensor has an f/1.7 aperture, Dual Pixel PDAF, and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), while the secondary telephoto lens offers f/2.4 aperture, autofocus, OIS, and 2x optical zoom. Together, these features allow for high-quality photos with depth and clarity. The phone supports 4K video recording at 30fps, with additional capabilities at 1080p and 720p resolutions, ensuring versatility for video creators.

Selfie and Video Calling

The front camera comprises an 8 MP wide sensor with an f/1.7 aperture and autofocus, paired with a 2 MP iris scanner camera to support secure unlocking methods. This configuration supports high-resolution video calling at 1440p@30fps, with added features like Auto-HDR and Dual Video Call enhancing its usability.

Audio and Connectivity

On the audio front, the Note8 includes a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature appreciated by audiophiles, alongside a loudspeaker for clear audio output. For connectivity, it offers a comprehensive set of options including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and USB Type-C. Unfortunately, FM radio support isn’t provided. Navigation capabilities are strengthened with GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Samsung Galaxy Note8 is packed with sensors, including an iris scanner, rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass, barometer, heart rate sensor, and SpO2 sensor. These enrich the phone’s functionality, facilitating features ranging from health tracking to precise navigation and augmented reality applications.

Battery Life

The device houses a non-removable 3300 mAh Li-Ion battery. For charging, it supports 15W wired charging via Quick Charge 2.0 and wireless charging that is market-dependent. Its endurance rating of 89 hours signifies reliable battery performance, capable of supporting heavy use throughout the day.

Color Variants and Pricing

The Note8 was made available in a range of elegant colors, including Midnight Black, Maple Gold, Orchid Gray, Deep Sea Blue, and Star Pink. These options provide consumers with a choice to match their personal style. At launch, the price was around 500 EUR, positioning it as a premium device in the market.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Note8 stands out as a powerful and feature-rich smartphone. Its combination of advanced display technology, formidable hardware, extensive camera capabilities, and additional features like the S Pen make it a compelling option for both professionals and tech enthusiasts. Despite being released in 2017, it continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a blend of productivity and entertainment in a single device.