Nexus 6

amazon Nexus 6 reviews

Design and Build Quality

a. Aesthetic Appeal

The Nexus 6 showcases a modern and sophisticated design, which was quite distinctive at the time of its release. The device features a large 5.96-inch display, making it one of the bigger smartphones of its era. The Nexus 6’s design is characterized by its rounded edges and aluminum frame, giving it a premium look and feel.

The device is available in two colors: Midnight Blue and Cloud White. The Midnight Blue variant has a deep, dark hue that adds a touch of elegance, while the Cloud White variant offers a brighter, more contemporary appearance. The overall design is clean and minimalist, with the Nexus branding prominently displayed on the back.

b. Build Quality

The build quality of the Nexus 6 is exemplary for its class. The device features a sturdy aluminum frame with a matte finish that enhances its durability and grip. The back cover, made from a soft-touch plastic, provides a comfortable feel and resists fingerprints and smudges. The construction feels solid and well-built, contributing to a premium overall impression.

The Nexus 6’s build quality is enhanced by its slightly curved back, which makes the device easier to hold and use despite its large size. The aluminum frame adds to the phone’s rigidity, while the plastic back provides a balanced mix of durability and comfort.

c. Ergonomics

Given its large size, the Nexus 6 is not the easiest device to handle with one hand. However, the design incorporates rounded edges and a comfortable grip to mitigate this issue. The placement of buttons and ports is generally ergonomic, though users with smaller hands might find one-handed operation challenging.

The power button and volume rocker are located on the right side of the device, offering easy access without requiring awkward hand movements. The placement of the 3.5mm headphone jack at the top and the micro-USB port at the bottom is also convenient for most users.

d. Durability

The Nexus 6 does not come with an official IP rating for water or dust resistance, which limits its durability compared to some of its more rugged counterparts. However, the build quality is robust, and the device is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. Users should consider using a protective case to safeguard against potential drops or scratches, especially given the large and potentially vulnerable display.

Display

a. Screen Specifications

The Nexus 6 features a 5.96-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels. This results in a pixel density of approximately 493 pixels per inch (PPI). The large display, combined with the high resolution, was designed to offer a vivid and immersive viewing experience.

b. Display Quality

The display quality of the Nexus 6 is one of its standout features. The AMOLED panel provides excellent color reproduction, deep blacks, and high contrast, resulting in vibrant and eye-catching visuals. The high resolution ensures sharp text and detailed images, making the display ideal for media consumption, gaming, and general use.

The AMOLED technology also contributes to power efficiency, as individual pixels can be turned off to achieve true blacks and save energy. This feature, combined with the large screen size, makes the Nexus 6 an excellent choice for users who prioritize display quality.

c. Brightness and Outdoor Visibility

The Nexus 6’s display performs well in various lighting conditions. The screen is bright enough for comfortable use in direct sunlight, though glare can still be an issue in very bright environments. The AMOLED panel’s deep blacks and high contrast help maintain readability even under challenging lighting conditions.

d. Touch Sensitivity

The touch sensitivity of the Nexus 6 is responsive and accurate. The device supports multi-touch gestures and offers a smooth interaction experience with the operating system and applications. The touchscreen performs well for everyday tasks, including typing, swiping, and navigating the user interface.

Performance

a. Processor and RAM

The Nexus 6 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 chipset, featuring a quad-core Krait 450 processor clocked at 2.7 GHz. This is paired with 3 GB of RAM. The Snapdragon 805 was one of the top-performing processors of its time, providing a substantial boost in performance compared to previous generations.

b. Benchmark Performance

In benchmark tests, the Nexus 6 delivers strong performance, with scores that reflect its high-end hardware capabilities. The combination of the Snapdragon 805 chipset and 3 GB of RAM allows the device to handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The Nexus 6’s performance is smooth and responsive, with minimal lag or stutter in everyday use.

c. Gaming Performance

The Nexus 6 excels in gaming performance, thanks to its powerful hardware and high-resolution display. The device can handle graphically intensive games with high settings, providing smooth frame rates and detailed graphics. Users can enjoy a wide range of games without significant performance issues, making the Nexus 6 a good choice for mobile gaming enthusiasts.

d. Multitasking

The 3 GB of RAM in the Nexus 6 supports effective multitasking, allowing users to switch between apps and run multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. The device’s performance in multitasking scenarios is robust, with smooth transitions and minimal lag. The Snapdragon 805 chipset provides the necessary power to handle a variety of tasks, from productivity apps to multimedia content.

Camera

a. Rear Camera Specifications

The Nexus 6 features a 13-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture and optical image stabilization (OIS). The camera is equipped with a dual-LED flash to assist in low-light conditions. The 13-megapixel sensor is designed to capture high-resolution images with good detail and clarity.

b. Camera Performance

The camera performance of the Nexus 6 is generally strong, with the device producing high-quality images in various lighting conditions. The OIS helps reduce blurriness caused by camera shake, improving the sharpness and clarity of photos. The dual-LED flash provides adequate illumination for low-light photography, though images may exhibit some noise in challenging lighting conditions.

The camera app includes various features and modes, such as HDR, panorama, and a manual mode for more advanced control. These features allow users to experiment with different photography techniques and enhance their results. Overall, the Nexus 6’s camera provides a satisfying experience for casual photography and everyday use.

c. Front Camera

The Nexus 6 includes a 2-megapixel front-facing camera, suitable for selfies and video calls. The front camera delivers acceptable performance for its resolution, with decent image quality in well-lit environments. While the 2-megapixel sensor may not offer the same level of detail as higher-resolution front cameras, it is functional for casual use.

d. Camera Features

The camera app on the Nexus 6 includes several useful features, such as HDR, which helps improve image quality in high-contrast situations. The manual mode provides additional control over settings such as exposure and white balance, allowing users to fine-tune their shots. The camera app is user-friendly and offers a range of options to enhance the photography experience.

Battery Life

a. Battery Specifications

The Nexus 6 is equipped with a non-removable 3,220 mAh battery. This battery capacity was relatively large for its time, designed to provide sufficient power for the device’s large display and high-performance hardware. The battery aims to balance performance and longevity, offering users a full day of usage with moderate use.

b. Battery Performance

The battery performance of the Nexus 6 is generally good, with the device providing a full day of usage under typical conditions. Users can expect to get through a day of moderate activities, including web browsing, social media, and media consumption. Heavy use may require recharging before the end of the day, but the device’s battery life is competitive for its class.

c. Charging Speed

The Nexus 6 supports fast charging technology, allowing for quicker recharging compared to standard charging methods. The device can achieve a significant charge in a relatively short period, with a full charge taking approximately 2 hours. The fast charging feature is a valuable addition for users who need to quickly top up their battery during the day.

d. Power Management Features

The Nexus 6 includes various power management features to optimize battery life. Users can access battery saver modes, adjust screen brightness, and manage background applications to extend battery performance. These features help users maximize their battery life and manage power consumption effectively.

Software and User Experience

a. Operating System

The Nexus 6 originally shipped with Android 5.0 Lollipop, featuring the latest version of Android at the time. The device received timely updates directly from Google, ensuring that users had access to the latest features and security patches.

b. User Interface

The Nexus 6 offers a pure Android experience, free from manufacturer-specific customizations and bloatware. The user interface is clean and straightforward, providing a smooth and intuitive experience. The device includes standard Android features, such as the Google Now launcher and various customization options, allowing users to tailor their experience to their preferences.

c. Performance and Stability

The software experience on the Nexus 6 is generally stable and responsive. The device benefits from timely updates and optimizations provided by Google, ensuring a smooth and consistent performance. The absence of heavy manufacturer skins or bloatware contributes to the phone’s efficiency, as it runs a clean version of Android. This approach minimizes potential performance issues and allows for a more direct and streamlined interaction with the operating system.

d. Features and Customization

The Nexus 6 includes a range of features that enhance the overall user experience. The device supports Google’s ecosystem of apps and services, including Google Now, Google Photos, and Google Drive. These integrations provide seamless access to cloud storage, voice commands, and photo management.

Users can customize their experience with various widgets, launchers, and themes available through the Google Play Store. Android’s flexibility allows for significant personalization, enabling users to tailor their device according to their preferences.

e. Security

The Nexus 6 includes robust security features, including regular security updates from Google. The device supports standard Android security features such as device encryption, Google Play Protect, and the ability to remotely locate and wipe the device if lost or stolen. The regular updates ensure that users have the latest security patches, helping to protect against vulnerabilities and threats.

Connectivity

a. Network and Signal Strength

The Nexus 6 supports a wide range of network bands, including LTE, which ensures compatibility with various carriers and network types worldwide. The device’s network performance is generally reliable, with good signal reception and call quality. The LTE connectivity provides fast data speeds, enhancing the overall internet browsing and media streaming experience.

b. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

The device supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), allowing for flexible connectivity options and improved performance in various network environments. The Wi-Fi performance is solid, with good signal strength and reliable connection stability.

Bluetooth 4.1 is included, enabling compatibility with a wide range of Bluetooth devices, such as headphones, speakers, and other accessories. The Bluetooth connectivity is stable and efficient, providing seamless pairing and reliable performance for audio streaming and data transfer.

c. GPS and Navigation

The Nexus 6 includes GPS support, which works in conjunction with GLONASS and A-GPS for accurate location tracking. The GPS performance is generally precise, making the device suitable for navigation and location-based services. Whether using Google Maps or other navigation apps, users can expect reliable and accurate positioning.

d. USB Connectivity

The Nexus 6 features a micro-USB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer. While not the latest USB Type-C standard, the micro-USB port is functional and provides adequate transfer speeds for most tasks. The device supports USB OTG (On-The-Go), allowing users to connect external storage devices and peripherals directly to the phone.

Audio and Multimedia

a. Speaker Quality

The Nexus 6 is equipped with front-facing stereo speakers, which provide a superior audio experience compared to rear-mounted speakers. The front speakers deliver clear and balanced sound, enhancing multimedia playback, gaming, and voice calls. The stereo configuration improves the overall audio immersion, making it suitable for watching videos and listening to music.

b. Headphone Experience

The device features a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to connect their favorite headphones for a more personalized audio experience. The audio output through the headphone jack is clean and powerful, with good fidelity and minimal distortion. The Nexus 6’s support for high-quality audio codecs ensures that users can enjoy a rich and detailed sound experience.

c. Multimedia Performance

The Nexus 6’s large, high-resolution display and powerful hardware contribute to an excellent multimedia experience. Whether streaming videos, playing games, or viewing photos, the device’s performance is impressive. The AMOLED display enhances video playback with its vibrant colors and deep blacks, while the powerful speakers provide immersive audio.

d. Media Apps

The device comes with standard media apps, such as Google Play Music and Google Photos, pre-installed. These apps offer integrated support for managing and enjoying media content. Users can access a vast library of music and photos, and take advantage of cloud storage options for backup and synchronization.

Value and Conclusion

a. Pricing and Availability

At its launch, the Nexus 6 was priced competitively, offering high-end features at a relatively affordable cost compared to other flagship devices. The device was available through Google’s online store and select carriers, making it accessible to a broad audience. Although prices may vary based on region and carrier, the Nexus 6 generally offered good value for its specifications and features.

b. Comparison with Competitors

The Nexus 6 faced competition from several other flagship smartphones at the time of its release, including the Samsung Galaxy Note 4, LG G3, and HTC One M8. While each competitor had its strengths, the Nexus 6 distinguished itself with its pure Android experience, timely updates, and competitive hardware.

c. Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Display: Large, high-resolution AMOLED display with excellent color reproduction and contrast.
• Performance: Powerful hardware, including the Snapdragon 805 processor and 3 GB of RAM, delivers smooth performance.
• Software: Pure Android experience with timely updates and a clean user interface.
• Camera: Strong rear camera performance with optical image stabilization and good low-light capabilities.
• Audio: Front-facing stereo speakers provide clear and immersive sound.

Cons:

• Size: The large 5.96-inch display can be challenging to handle with one hand.
• Battery Life: While generally good, heavy users may need to recharge before the end of the day.
• Build: Lack of official water and dust resistance compared to some competitors.
• USB Port: Micro-USB 2.0 is outdated compared to the newer USB Type-C standard.

d. Overall Verdict

The Nexus 6 was a notable entry in Google’s lineup, offering a compelling mix of high-end hardware, pure Android software, and timely updates. Its large, high-resolution display, powerful performance, and clean user interface made it a strong contender in the flagship smartphone market. While it faced some competition and had a few limitations, the Nexus 6 provided excellent value for users seeking a premium Android experience.

Overall, the Nexus 6 remains a significant device in the history of Android smartphones, reflecting Google’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, user-focused experience. Its impact on the Android ecosystem and its role in shaping the future of Nexus devices make it a noteworthy addition to any discussion of flagship smartphones from its era.

where can you get a Nexus 6 online

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Motorola Nexus 6 Unlocked Smartphone, 32 GB, U. S. Warranty – Cloud White: Buy it now

Motorola Nexus 6 Unlocked Smartphone, 64 GB, U. S. Warranty – Midnight Blue: Buy it now

Motorola Nexus 6 XT1103 GSM Unlocked 4G LTE Smartphone – 32GB – Midnight Blue – (Certified Refurbished): Buy it now

Motorola Nexus 6 XT1103 32GB 3G/4G LTE Factory Unlocked Cell Phone (Midnight Blue): Buy it now