[Galaxy Note 4 General] uppon2:
UPDATE! Unfortunately my note 4 took a fall and landed on a jagged rock (serves me right for holding it in my mouth using the flashlight) - Anyway, I ended up finding a (like new) LG V20 for $300 USD (It's big but I had to make a sacrifice) It was very hard to decide over the mate 9, oneplus 3t and the V20. Because I got it at a reasonably low price it won't be much of a loss at resale if I decide on something else, especially as something is always right around the corner.

UPDATE COMPARISON BETWEEN LG V20 AND NOTE 4

Impressions about the LG V20 after 2 weeks in comparison to the Note 4.

What is better?

Performance is snappier on the V20 (for obvious reasons)

The screen looks more detailed and sharper (even though they both have the same resolution I think the LCD tech is better in this instance IMO)

The device is easier to hold (I really didn't think a small reduction in width could be so noticeable)

The second display is very useful for launching recent apps and using it to launch flashlight while the screen is off is very handy

Battery life is very similar (I average 5 hours of SOT over 24 hour period) - This is a tie but considering people would constantly rant about poor battery life I had to mention it

Although I don't use headphones often you really can tell the difference when using high level cups

The cameras are much better for enthusiasts. You also have a lot of options that are usually only seen in actual cameras (focus peaking, advanced manual modes etc)

What is not?

Loudspeaker and earpiece are deeper but sound less detailed and clear (even after removing the speaker grille from the chin). If you rely heavily on listening to podcasts or anything else where plain vocals are concerned than this will be a bit of an adjustment for you

There are so many different model variants that development is far less than I originally read in to (almost to the point where I am prepared to look for another phone)

I really do miss having physical keys (I am getting used to it, though)

Overall I am not disappointed in the actual device or it's capabilities in comparison to the Note 4. I could definitely forgive the little things I don't like if it had a stronger community. I will see how it goes over the next few months

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I'm really struggling to replace my note 4. Don't get me wrong, you can get better handsets, but not a big enough leap for me to make the switch. For example I will list the features that I require in a list from most important to least important features.

1. Community/company development

2. Screen size to body ratio (NON CURVED) (Critical. I want a smaller phone but with still at least a 5.5" display)

3. Capacitive/Physical buttons. (Heavily preferred but open minded to change if everything else is perfect)

4. Large removable battery (Open minded to change)

5. Micro SD and IR Blaster (These aren't deal breakers)

Obviously the rest of the phone would need to have higher internal specs etc, else it wouldn't be an upgrade!

The closest i can find is the

Oneplus 3T (But it unfortunately is a similar size with smaller screen)

LG V20 (Quite bigger than Note 4)

Xiaomi Mi 5s Plus (Little bit taller than Note 4 and unsure about future dev)

Mi Mix (Much bigger and poor camera but this type of design really caught my eye)

Without reducing screen size it's really hard to find anything that ticks every box by a large enough margin to make it feel worth it to me. What are your thoughts? Do you have any advice or do you feel the same way?