Android
Nexus 5X: 2 Reasons to Buy & 4 Reasons Not To (2017)
The Nexus 5X is getting older but it’s still in great shape with an Android O update on the way. If you’re hunting for a new Android phone the Nexus 5X is worth considering but there are also some very good reasons to avoid it, at least for now.
Google’s Nexus 5X is no longer the company’s flagship model but the device continues to impress us as we push further and further away from its release.
The device’s hardware and software (Android 7.1.2 Nougat) are holding up nicely in 2017 and it’s definitely worth a look if you don’t want to break the bank. Google no longer sells the Nexus 5X but various retailers still have new and used models in stock.
As we push deeper into the year, the smartphone market is becoming volatile as rumors pinpoint the features and release dates of upcoming flagships like the iPhone 8, Google Pixel 2, and Samsung Galaxy Note 8.
If you’re going to buy the Nexus 5X or any other smartphone in July or August you’d better be confident because new flagships and price drops are on the way.
To assist you we want to take you through a few reasons to consider buying the Nexus 5X now or in the near future. We also outline some reasons to avoid the Nexus 5X temporarily or for good.
Android O, Security Updates & Beyond | |||||||
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Let's start with a few reasons to consider buying the Nexus 5X right now or in the weeks ahead. The Nexus 5X is getting older but Google continues to update the device with monthly security patches and bug fixes. Later this year, the company will push Android 8.0 (also known as Android O), out to Nexus 5X users around the world. Anyone with a Nexus 5X can try Android O and its new features right now via the Android 8.0 Developer Preview. Android O could be the last major update for the Nexus 5X, Google says it can't guarantee Android version updates for the Nexus 5X after September 2017, but that doesn't mean support for the device will end. It will get at least another year of software support, the company recently confirmed plans to give it security patches through September 2018. That's a bummer, sure, but don't let it get you down. Once support stops you can simply root your device (if you haven't done so already) and load up features from the updates Google refuses to roll out to the Nexus 5X. This will allow you to hold onto your Nexus 5X for several more years, long after Google stops supporting the device. The Nexus 5X makes for a great device in the short-term and if you're willing to learn about rooting and flashing, it could be the perfect device for the long haul. | |||||||
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Jamie
07/20/2017 at 6:21 am
Bootloop issue alone should be enough reason to avoid the 5X at this point. Otherwise it is indeed a pretty great phone… but if you need to rely on it, I’d avoid it. If you’re gonna buy a used 5X, make sure you get all the info so you can send it back to LG when it stops working. I’m on my 3rd replacement myself.