[Android Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting] DroidX2:
My Review of the W3D

Ok all, I've had some time with the device, so, here is what I think.

Since we have covered so much of it already, I will just keep it simple. I'll review based on an Out-of-the-Box experience.

Acknowledgement: Device was purchased from ALIEXPRESS w/ DHL Shipping. Transit time was 2 weeks to United States. Shouts out to DEEN0X, I'm kind of borrowing his outline for the 78P01 for this review. I won't be as extensive, but it's a good path to follow.

Introduction: This device is the second device done under Snail, who acquired Gaming phone maker IREADYGO back in 2014. Prior to their acquisition, IREADYGO created several gaming phone devices, naming them MUCH 3G, MUCH G2, MUCH 78P01. They were acquired during the time the MUCH 78P01 was created, so another version, Called the SNAIL W1 was also released. These devices are similar in build and the same in specs, but different firmware. However, one can flash the 78P01 firmware to a SNAIL W1, or vice versa.

Product Showcase: Here is the picture from THE_GATEKEEPER. Mine was the same, so I attached THE_GATEKEEPER's photo:

Package Contents: My contents were also the same: DEVICE, SCREEN COVER WITH DESIGN(must be removed to use phone, but looks great in the packaging), USB CABLE, ADAPTER, INSTRUCTIONS. The box design is really attractive, and looks nice sitting on a shelf.

Product Description: Not to be too extensive since I'm not trying to be reviewer of the year here, but the device contains:

TWO ANALOG STICKS

D-PAD

4 FACE BUTTONS

L1, L2

R1, R2

VOLUME UP / DOWN

POWER

USB (top - for charging and transfer files, MHL Connection[unable to test])

HEADPHONE JACK

USB (bottom - for charging)

Phone Experience:

One thing I must mention is that the device is not an out of the box and play type of deal. Unless you ordered from OPENYOUREYES SHOP, who install the international firmware based on your receiving country, you will need to install the International Firmware yourself. The process is not difficult at all, and can be done very simply. I can list the tutorial if need be.

As a cell phone, the device is large, however, feels sturdy and well built. The device is of comparable size to Phablet devices, albeit a tad taller. However, it works out well and doesn't look or feel weird. Unfortunately, it does run Android 4.4 KitKat, while the rest of the world is on Marsh-mellow and Nougat. So it is lacking plenty of features that most newer phones have had, such as NFC, or the upgraded cameras, and other various hardware upgrades. It is basically unfair to compare this device phone capabilities to newer devices, but being a phone released in 2016, that is the competition it faces. However, on its own merits, the device functions as a phone rather well, with Internet Calling, Dual SIM capabilities, tethering, much improved camera when compared to the last model. The volume buttons are also better positioned, more on that later.

I was unable to test the full network capabilities due to an issue with AT&T recognizing the IMEI number. It is not phone specific, just AT&T specific as THE_GATEKEEPER has had great success with the network using STRAIGHT TALK. I have been trying to settle things with AT&T and will update if I am able to get things worked out.

Usage wise, apps opened up quickly, nor have I had any slowdown. It basically works like any KITKAT Android phone. Omitting Mobile connection, my WiFi and Bluetooth connections have been good. WiFi is compatible to 2.5 and 5 ghz frequencies. Unlike the 78P01, Bluetooth and WiFi can now be used together without issue. There is an option to adjust the screen similar to the picture options on a TV, which is a nice touch. Sound as pretty loud and clear from the speakers. Camera is a large improvement over the 78P01, but will pale in comparison to today's camera capabilities.

Battery life for me is similar to everyone else who has the device. Without gaming, battery can last a few days without charge, but gaming really drains it. I'm testing a few apps to help mitigate the issue and will report back.

3D Feature:

While I never really counted the 3D to be of any use to me, I tested it just to see how it worked. And it's pretty much as described. The 3D looks cool, like an animated Magic Eye. I wasn't able to test any 3D games, or even find Snail's 3D version of Taichi Panda. If I find more uses for the 3D, I'll share, but as for testing, it works. You can watch Avatar or any other 3D Movie to your hearts content. The screen looks amazing in 3D as well.

Gaming Usage:

As for gaming, I'll start with the D-Pad. A welcome charge is that aside from the 78P01, the D-Pad is no longer mounted behind a molding, which made fighting games, and regular side-scrolling games difficult. The D- Pad is great for games, such as Mario, Dan The Man, Megaman, Sonic, and other various 2D sidescrollers. However, 2D fighting games such as Street Fighter, King of Fighters, and other games that require quarter-circle movements are hard to play using the D-Pad. If you play these types of games with Analogs, you'll be fine, but as a personal quip for me, I was kind of let down.

The Analogs are greatly improved and allow for even slow movement in games that require it, such as Metal Gear, when you need to sneak up on an enemy. They are also great for using them as camera control in many games like Respawnables, allowing you to aim better with more range of motion, and more resistance without having to slowdown your turning speed. I'm not saying they are Xbox quality, but more along the lines of Vita, or 3DS.

The face buttons are well placed and spaced. Very clicky, but not as noisy as the 78P01 buttons.

The shoulder buttons work well. I personally was worried about their placement, but after using them, I like them. Although, extended use may get a little cramping, but this is portable gaming, so I expect that.

Button Mapper:

Many games have hardware recognition and map the buttons automatically. Some games don't, but the Button mapper has a mapping in place, and automatically loads the mapping for the game for you, which is convenient. However, there are some games that require mapping. The button mapper is always available for this and can be hidden away when not needed. When opened, you have a scrollable list of buttons to add to each on-screen button. Currently, there isn't a way to map diagonals on the D-PAD. While there is an update allowing the mapping of L2 and R2, it is not yet available for the international version.

Overall, the Mapper is good for most games. But some games require more detail and a more advanced mapper will be required for full play.

Here are some Tech Shots:

My Final Thoughts:

Coming from the 78P01, this device is a very decent upgrade for me. While there are things that could be done to vastly improve this device, from updating the Android version, to other various upgrades hardware wise, I like it for what it is, a new gaming phone, and one of its kind. For what it's worth, it's a gaming phone. When compared to its gaming phone competition, it leads the pack. When compared to just the phone side, it falls flat. The real draw to this device is its gaming capabilities, and it serves up well in that area. This device will have varying reviews, but it all comes down to what you want most. I won't hide the fact that I would like to see this device succeed and a new one released, but I have to be honest, this is not a device for the masses as is.

Results will vary, but all in all, the device covers the basics of what a gaming phone should be, despite missing a few questions, I give it a passing score. Not perfect, but it'll have to do.

Pros: Great screen, Full button layout, sturdy build, not too much bloatware, best of its kind of device, 3D Playback if you want it.

Cons: D-Pad not the best for fighting games, runs Android KitKat, Under-powered as a 2016 device, May need International Firmware installed for Google Play, expensive compared to today's tech.

There you have it. I am sure I missed a few things, but ask away. I'll be happy to give you any information you need to make your decision.

;):good: