Review: HTC U12+
The HTC U12+ is an incredibly advanced smartphone that somehow bungles a couple of core features, thereby sidelining the whole thing. It's maddening.
In the plus column, we have the sultry design, the pleasing build, the gorgeous screen, and the waterproof chassis. Radio performance was good enough, and voice calls got the job done. Music sounds great whether you're listening via HTC's USonic headphones or the U12+'s BoomSound speakers. A fast processor with lots of RAM, plenty of storage, and capable cameras really help the U12+ impress.
The negatives, however, are really negative. Battery life is the most worrisome issue. The inconsistency I saw over more than a week of testing left me not trusting the phone. Then there are the buttons. I never got the hang of them. The electronic side keys just aren't as quick or as responsive as real buttons would be and the experience slows you down. The burdensome software doesn't help. While I appreciate having options, HTC's everything-and-the-kitchen-sink approach left me feeling overwhelmed at times.
HTC sells the U12+ online unlocked for $800. That's a lot for a phone with questionable battery life and weird buttons. Though I really like aspects of this phone, I think your money may be better spent right now on alternatives like the LG G7, V35, or Galaxy S9+.
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HTC U12+
