Not the best move HTC, I must say. Exactly two months ago, HTC launched their brilliant HTC One (M8) with a 90% metal body, the faster processor, superb UI and dazzling display. Problem is, it took the 4 MP UltraPixel gamble again, and failed. Again. Now HTC has released the One (E8), with a polycarbonate body, but a 13 MP camera.
Looking at the specs, you quickly realise that almost nothing has changed other than the swap of a metal body for the higher resolution camera.
| HTC One (M8) | HTC One (E8) | |
| Display | 5”, 1080p SLCD3 display | 5”, 1080p SLCD3 display |
| Camera | Dual cameras, 4 MP UltraPixel, 1/3 inch sensor | 13 MP, 1/3 inch sensor |
| Video Recording | 1080p/FHD | 1080p/FHD |
| Processor | 2.5 GHz Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 | 2.5 GHz Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 |
| GPU | Adreno 330 | Adreno 330 |
| RAM | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| Storage | 16/32 GB, micro-SD expandable | 16/32 GB, micro-SD expandable |
| Battery | 2600 mAh, Extreme Power Saving mode | 2600 mAh, Extreme Power Saving mode |
| Other | 90% metal body, BoomSound front-facing speakers, IR Blaster, NFC, LTE | Polycarbonate body, BoomSound front-facing speakers, NFC, LTE, Dual-SIM |
The only other (significant or otherwise) differences are the presence of a second nano-SIM card slot and the lack of an IR blaster, of which the former will be a boon to frequent travelers wanting a premium smartphone experience all the time.
The E8 retains all of the new features introduced in the M8, such as Motion Launch, BoomSound, and the 5 MP front-facing ‘selfie’ camera. It will also have its own line of Dot View cases, although the different configuration of the camera means that you probably cannot share a case with the M8.
My colleague Way, is understandably upset about HTC’s decision, as she would have gladly bought the E8 over the M8 – an opinion the whole editorial team here at Twenty First Tech shares. After all, looks are just skin-deep.
The E8 will come in Polar White, Electric Crimson, Maldives Blue, and Misty Gray and it’s slated for an early June release in select markets, so stay tuned for more information regarding the E8’s release.
What do you think of HTC’s decision to release the E8 just two months after the M8? Will you be selling your M8 for the E8, and prospective buyers, which one will you prefer -13 MP or 90% aluminium?