Samsung Galaxy Note 2 smartphone

Photo: 彭家杰 via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)

Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Note 2

October 2012 8/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Samsung Galaxy Note 2, also known as the Galaxy Note II, was a groundbreaking 'phablet' released in October 2012, blurring the lines between smartphones and tablets with its large 5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED display and integrated S Pen stylus. It featured a powerful quad-core processor and was one of the first devices to launch with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, offering enhanced multitasking capabilities and a robust user experience for its time.
Display5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED (720x1280 pixels)
ChipsetExynos 4412 Quad
Main Camera8 MP with LED flash, 1080p video
Battery3100 mAh removable Li-Ion
Starting from $109

💰 Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Price

The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 lowest price is $109, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeHD Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors
Size5.5 inches, 83.4 cm² (~68.6% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~267 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 2

Platform

ChipsetExynos 4412 Quad
CPUQuad-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A9
GPUMali-400MP4

Memory

RAM2 GB
Internal Storage16GB, 32GB, 64GB
Card SlotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot, up to 64GB)

Main Camera

Modules8 MP, f/2.6, AF
FeaturesLED flash, BSI sensor, autofocus, zero shutter lag, simultaneous HD video and 6MP image recording
Video1080p@30fps

Selfie Camera

Modules1.9 MP
Video720p

Battery

TypeLi-Ion 3100 mAh, removable
Talk timeUp to 16 h (3G)

Body

Dimensions151.1 x 80.5 x 9.4 mm (5.95 x 3.17 x 0.37 in)
Weight182 g (6.42 oz)
SIMMicro-SIM
BuildPlastic body, Gorilla Glass 2 front

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, hotspot
Bluetooth4.0, A2DP, LE, EDR
GPSYes, with A-GPS, GLONASS
NFCYes
USBmicroUSB 2.0 (MHL TV-out, USB Host)
RadioStereo FM radio (market dependent)

Launch

AnnouncedAugust 2012
StatusReleased October 2012
OS at launchAndroid 4.1.1 (Jelly Bean), upgradable to 4.4.2 (KitKat)

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Large, vibrant HD Super AMOLED display.
  • Improved and highly functional S Pen stylus.
  • Excellent battery life for its time.
  • Strong quad-core performance and 2GB RAM.
  • Expandable storage via microSD card.
  • Good camera for photos and video.

Cons

  • Large size can be unwieldy for some users.
  • Plastic build quality might feel less premium compared to modern phones.
  • Camera struggles in low-light conditions.
  • S Voice (voice assistant) was considered second-rate.
  • Original price was considered high.
★ Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 was a highly innovative and well-received device for its era, offering a compelling blend of a large screen, stylus functionality, and strong performance, despite its considerable size.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 is a classic 'phablet' that was revolutionary in its time, but it is now an outdated device. If you're a collector or enthusiast looking to experience a piece of smartphone history, it can be an interesting acquisition. However, for daily use, its old operating system (Android 4.4.2 KitKat maximum official update) means it will lack support for many modern apps and security updates. The hardware, while powerful for 2012, will struggle with today's demanding applications and web browsing. Battery life, even with its large capacity, will likely be diminished due to age. Consider it a novelty or a secondary device, but not a primary smartphone for contemporary needs. Look for well-preserved units if collecting, but expect significant limitations if attempting to use it as a daily driver.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Handset
  • S Pen Stylus (integrated)
  • Wall charger
  • MicroUSB cable
  • Headset with spare earbuds
  • 3100 mAh removable battery

Standard manufacturer's warranty applied at the time of purchase, typically 1 year, but this device is now well past its warranty period.

❓ Questions & Answers

When was the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 released?

The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 was officially released in October 2012, following its announcement in August of the same year.

What operating system did the Galaxy Note 2 run?

The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 launched with Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean and was officially upgradable to Android 4.4.2 KitKat.

Does the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 have an S Pen?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 features an integrated S Pen stylus, which was a key differentiating feature, offering enhanced precision and various productivity tools.

What is the screen size and resolution of the Galaxy Note 2?

The Galaxy Note 2 boasts a 5.5-inch HD Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, providing a pixel density of approximately 267 ppi.

Is the battery in the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 removable?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 comes with a removable 3100 mAh Li-Ion battery, allowing users to replace it if needed.

Can the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 still be used today?

While the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 can technically still function, its outdated operating system and hardware mean it will struggle with modern applications, lack current security updates, and may not support many contemporary services, making it unsuitable as a primary daily driver. It's more suited for collectors or as a secondary, limited-use device.