I wasn’t very happy with HTC’s decision to launch the One (E8) over a month ago. Using the brilliant HTC One (M8) with a 90% metal body, the faster processor, superb UI and dazzling display as a baseline, they re-launched it in plastic but with a better camera. Understandably many One (M8) customers grumbled, but perhaps they will not now – the One (E8) will cost just S$658.
Between the E8 and M8, 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.
The E8 will come in Polar White, Electric Crimson, Maldives Blue, and Misty Gray. It will cost you S$658, much less than the One (M8), and you’ll be able to pick it up from SingTel, StarHub, M1, and selected retailers as of 26 July. StarHub and M1 will carry all three colours, but SingTel’s will only be limited to the Polar White and Electric Crimson options.
What do you think of HTC’s E8? Will you be selling your M8 for the E8, and prospective buyers, which one will you prefer -13 MP or 90% aluminium but with a hefty $350 premium?