HTC One M8 for Windows vs Nokia Lumia 1520 first look

As we look far and deep into the Windows Phone space, there’s no denying that there’s a single company that’s been consistently delivering quality devices. Nokia, as we know, has a place right beneath Microsoft’s wing, so it’s no surprise to us that the Nokia Lumia 1520 is still one of the darling devices in the space. However, HTC is stirring things up and making a lot of commotion with its brand new HTC One M8 for Windows, which renews this relationship we though ceased to exist. Two devices, both running Windows Phone, but ultimately we need to find out which of the two is indeed the crown jewel for the platform.

Design

Wow! These two couldn’t be any more attractive, since they bear many quality characteristics that help elevate their overall designs. Even though the Nokia Lumia 1520 is constructed out of polycarbonate plastic, it’s the sturdy variety that gives its construction that extremely solid. And best of all, its hard lines and iconic Lumia design language, help to keep it in favorable regard to the metal constructed HTC One M8 for Windows. Needless to say, we can’t complain about the two, but that choice of going with a brushed aluminum chassis gives HTC’s product a very slight edge.

Display

Matching one another in resolution, the obvious difference between the two displays is the ridiculous size of the Nokia Lumia 1520’s screen. Specifically, it’s outfitted with an insanely large 6-inch 1080 x 1920 IPS LCD display, which makes the 5-inch 1080 x 1920 Super LCD-3 display of the HTC One M8 for Windows appear quaint in size. Regardless of that, we really like the look of the two displays, so it’s rather difficult to say with enough certainty which one we actually find more attractive.

Interface

Finally! We’re pitting a Windows Phone against another Windows Phone. Seriously, it’s been a long time since we’ve come across a Windows Phone aside from a Lumia branded one – so it’s refreshing to see HTC’s take on the platform. By now, we appreciate the enhancements Nokia has made to the traditional Windows Phone experience, but we’re equally pleased by what HTC is doing as well in the space. Generally speaking, the look, feel, and operation are uniform with the two, but it all boils down to the added enhancements each phone brings to the table. As much as we’d love to detail which of the two we prefer, it’s rather difficult to come to a conclusion until we spend more time dealing with HTC’s offering.