HTC U Ultra 64GB

HTC U Ultra review

HTC has confused me with this phone. The HTC 10 fixed the problems of the One M9 but the U Ultra is a Frankenstein device. When a phone gives a better impression powered off than on, you know you’re in trouble. It’s not a bad phone full stop, but it does a lot to an unacceptably middling standard. It feels cobbled together despite the liquidity of its beautiful design and makes too many compromises with its massive body, no headphone jack or waterproofing, a small battery, and gimmicky use of the secondary display. In a year of excellent high-end smartphones, it’s impossible to recommend the U Ultra above the Galaxy S8, LG G6 or OnePlus 3T to name but a few. The HTC U 11 is just around the corner but frankly, I am worried that HTC may soon find itself powering off for good.

HTC U Ultra Review

The HTC U Ultra is an eye-catching unlocked phablet with powerful hardware and some unique features, but it's expensive and feels a bit half-baked. The HTC U Ultra isn't just a pretty face. It's a powerful handheld device, packing a Snapdragon 821 processor, a 5.7-inch Quad HD display, and plenty of RAM. It also has an extra strip above the main screen for notifications and other messages, as well as USonic USB-C earphones and four built-in mics for better audio. But it's expensive at $749.99, and doesn't feel quite ready for primetime—its camera performance is mediocre and some promised software features aren't ready yet. If you love HTC and want a good-looking phablet, the Google Pixel XL ($298.00 at Amazon) is a better choice. Design and Physical Features I have a love-hate relationship with shiny phones. They look great right out of the box...but as soon as you get your greasy fingers on them, things start to look much less attractive. The ultra-shiny U Ultra ($319.00 at Amazon) isn't an exception to the rule, though it still manages to look quite striking, even when it's covered in fingerprints. A lot of it has to do wi...

​HTC U Ultra phone: full, in-depth review

HTC's flagship phone brings some interesting features to the top of the market including great looks and 24-bit audio. But there's better value elsewhere. Update: Before you choose a phone, check out the amazing Samsung Galaxy S8 review.