Not-so-Rapid Reaction: DROID Maxx 2

Hey guys and gals, my rapid response to the DROID Maxx 2 is late as I’ve been completely swamped with everything that could pull me away from writing for the past week but here we go! Kevin has already written up a Rapid Reaction to the DROID Turbo 2 so it’s my turn to take first place. Let’s get started!

James’ Reaction

Battery

Motorola has bought the Maxx moniker back with this re-branded Moto X Play and it certainly lives up to the name, packing in 3630 mAh of battery power that they say will last up to 48 hours with mixed usage. You’d be hard pressed to beat that with most of the devices currently available.

Camera

The DROID Maxx 2 seems to be sporting the same 21mp camera than has been placed into some of their most recent flagship devices and should be great as a well rounded shooter. However, if it is the same as the other devices then the same problems will follow such as issues with low lighting and HDR being too bright or too dark.

Customization

Motorola will be offering backplates in 8 varying colors for a mere $20. I think that customization is always great when offered and the price is just right to buy a couple of covers and vary them based on your mood for that day. They look to be that slightly sticky rubber that should help with grip and stop you from dropping your device.

Storage size

Motorola in their great wisdom has decided to bestow upon you for a $384 off contract a measly 16gb of internal storage space. Once again this lack of storage is the first thing on my list as the price difference between 16gb and 32gb of storage space is minimal. Not only that but 16gb is your only choice with this device. Why not offer an option for more storage at a bloated price?

Bloatware

Talking of being bloated, Android Central is reporting that during their time spent with the DROID Maxx 2 it had 48 pre-loaded apps included. While most can be uninstalled, they mention that Slacker Radio and the NFL app can only be disabled which means they are both taking up precious storage space. Manufacturers are subsidizing devices by allowing app makers to pre-install apps onto their phones but the only person it hurts is the consumer who gets stuck with less storage space than expected.

Carrier lock

Granted Motorola has a history of doing this but the DROID Maxx 2 is only available on Verizon. This makes the device unavailable for those of you that may have service with any of the other ‘Big 4’.

So what is my overall verdict? If you’re looking for a device that’ll definitely last through the day and then some then the DROID Maxx 2 might be the phone you’re looking for, as long as you’re on Verizon. Otherwise, you’d be better off taking a look at the LG Nexus 5X, which we wrote a rapid reaction for.

Source: Android Central