HTC Surround vs Apple iPhone 4

Introduction:

The rivalry that exists between Microsoft and Apple has long been a familiar story as each company  has been able to tell the tale of their existence amidst stiff competition from the other. In the mobile space, it's quite clear that Apple has taken a drastic leap in overcoming Microsoft as they arrived on the scene with iOS back in 2007; which made the stagnant look of Windows Mobile even more outdated. As much as the Redmond based company attempted to alter their last generation mobile platform, it proved to be futile in the long run. However, Windows Phone 7 completely sheds all previous remnants that Windows Mobile exhibited – thus bringing their brand name back into the spotlight with their built from the bottom up platform. The HTC Surround is considered to be one of the titans for Windows Phone 7 that will help propel Microsoft's platform to catch up the mature OS powering the iPhone 4. In a classic clash of titans in the industry, we're witnessing two relevant devices showcasing their respective platforms as they attempt to gain visibility amongst the crowded mix of smartphones out there.

Design:

If there is something worth being credited for, it has to be the slick industrial designs that both high-end smartphones exhibit. When you contemplate deeply about which manufacturers out there design the best looking handsets, both Apple and HTC come to mind very quickly due to their reputations of crafting some of the best devices out there. The iPhone 4 is considered by many as the epitome of a timeless design that shows off its enticing character, but not too far off, we witness some qualities that are seen with the HTC Surround as well. Premium materials are abundant as the Apple iPhone 4 encases itself with two solid gorilla glass pieces that are sandwiched together with a stainless steel brushed band. Conversely, the HTC Surround employs some metallic elements to its construction and is tastefully complemented with a soft touch matte rear cover. Between the two, it's evident that the iPhone 4 is still the more streamlined looking device, but the HTC Surround's larger size packs a well endowed speaker and kickstand. Nevertheless, both feel quite good in the hand as they don't feel too bulky. Even though they're both solidly constructed, we'd imagine that the HTC Surround would incur less damage from a severe drop because of its metallic exterior. Come to think about it, we'd fathom that the thought of concrete coming into contact with the iPhone 4's glass like exterior would make some people cringe.


On the surface, some would assume that their displays would be similar, but upon closer inspection, it can be easily seen that the iPhone 4's Retina Display still proves to be a champ against most of the competition. The HTC Surround houses a larger sized 3.8” LCD display with WVGA (480 x 800 pixels) resolution, while the iPhone 4 packs a smaller 3.5” IPS LCD display which has a resolution of 640 x 960 pixels. The obvious decision that most people will have to tangle with is whether to choose something that has a larger screen or one that outputs better clarity. In the case of bigger is better, the Surround would be a natural winner since it'll play to the needs of media-centric individuals out there. However, it's instantly visible that that the iPhone 4 has a higher pixel density – which makes for some stunning looking clarity even with the smallest of text. It's not to say that the WVGA resolution employed on the Surround isn't good, but the Retina display is truly popping with its natural colors, exquisite detail, and higher luminosity. Plus it's worth noting that the oleophobic coating on the Retina display will easily repel dirt and grime better than the HTC Surround. Thankfully, both are completely responsive to the touch and we didn't notice any major accuracy issues with either of them.



Naturally, the single tactile and responsive home button with the iPhone 4 can't be accidentally pressed, but we're happy to say about the same thing with the Surround's three capacitive buttons. The reason being is that they are spaced far enough from one another and away from the edges of the phone. Either way, we're glad to see that there are fewer annoyances with the HTC Surround's capacitive buttons.

With the Surround, its dedicated two-level shutter key is a desired option to allow instant access in running the camera app – something that the iPhone has been lacking. On the other hand, we prefer the iPhone 4's separate and clicky volume keys as opposed to the stiff feeling volume rocker with the Surround. Moreover, the vibrate switch with the Apple iPhone 4 is of course another thing we like since it enables you to silence the phone instantly.


Similarly, both smartphones place their 3.5mm headset jacks and dedicated power buttons in the same location on the top edge of each device. In fact, there is no problem in pressing the power buttons of both handset since they're prominent and offer a good response when pressed.


For power and data connectivity input, both can be accessed via their respective connections found at the bottom sides of the phones. The HTC Surround packs a traditional microUSB port while the iPhone 4 employs Apple's proprietary one. Additionally, the speakerphone is found in the same area on the iPhone 4, while with the Surround, you'll need to slide the phone open to expose its well sized speaker. At the same time doing that with the Surround, it'll provide access to the rear kickstand – something of course that can be seen as a novelty for some users.


In the rear, you can expect to find both their 5-megapixel auto-focus cameras with an LED flash resting beside them. The iPhone 4 relies on using a micro SIM card, which can be accessed through the right edge of the phone. Oppositely, the Surround's rear cover can be removed to gain access to the regular SIM card slot and battery. Some will like the Surround's choice of having a removable battery since it doesn't require a rocket scientist to take it out, but with the iPhone 4, you'll have to ship it out to get it replaced since you don't have easy access to it.

Interface and Funcitonality:

If there is one commonality that both respective platforms exude, it has to be that they're completely one of the most responsive and fastest ones out there by far. Powering the Apple iPhone 4 is none other than an A4 processor presumed to be clocking in at 1GHz, while the usual 1GHz Snapdragon CPU is embedded within the HTC Surround. Windows Phone 7 and iOS share that common bond with their swift performance, which is evident from their smooth kinetic scrolling and fluid transitions. Speed seems to be at the top of the list with these two platforms, plus, they seem to be very stable as it's not too often we witnessed things crashing. However, that's pretty much where the common bonds end, as one takes a closer look at the unique user interfaces they decide to employ. Since iOS is such a mature mobile platform, it of course offers additional functionality over the infant stage that Windows Phone 7 finds itself in right now. For example, iOS offers multi-tasking, copy & paste functionality, and a wealth of venerable apps. Still, we'd have to say that Windows Phone 7 is one very pretty platform thanks to its heavy usage of transition effects, live tiles, and integration of social networking.

Now that Windows Phone 7 is here in the flesh, it's almost amazing to see it run so effortlessly without much lag or slowdown, which is the same experience you get with iOS. However, the difference is that iOS is starting to show its age versus the dynamic happenings with Windows Phone 7. Apple's tried and true use of a grid format with its interface was nice a year ago, but it doesn't have that appeal which accompanies the eye catching visuals commanded by Windows Phone 7. With both platforms, there is a minimal set of personalization options they offer. For iOS, you can obviously rearrange the placement of icons and change the background wallpaper. And with Windows Phone 7, you can also rearrange the layout of the tiles or even pin additional ones, but it's the dynamic look of these tiles that will capture the attention of most eyes.



Moreover, it does a good job of integrating the platform's core apps with social networking – like being able to sync your Facebook and Windows Live contacts with the phone. Without question, the iPhone still lacks it to this day, but that's what makes Windows Phone 7 more conducive for those who want to constantly be in the know with their select group of friends. Of course, you can always resort to using dedicated apps like Facebook & Twitter – which both platforms offer to give you that true mobile experience. But still, the HTC Surround's integration of social networking is way ahead of anything found over on the iPhone 4.


For all its experience, the iPhone 4 still lacks a usable notifications system – which can clearly be seen with its intrusive pop ups. Though, it gets a little worse for email notifications in iOS since you only hear a tone and vibration indicating that something has arrived. And although it's not the best, Windows Phone 7 does a better job in this area since you get basically the same notifications, but there is also a bar that shows up in the upper portion of the screen that'll indicate what kind of notification it is. Furthermore, it'll break down the notifications when you're in the lock screen with the HTC Surround.

Seeing that Apple heavily advertises FaceTime in their commercials on television, that's one of the sole differentiators between these two devices. The HTC Surround lacks a front facing camera, so the iPhone 4 has the unique functionality of doing video phone calls. Granted that it will only work over Wi-Fi, there are other alternate solutions, like Yahoo Messenger, which will enable it over 3G.


Good thing that both smartphones can use AT&T Navigator for a true voice guided turn-by-turn directions app – that's because their core map apps lack it. Google Maps on the iPhone 4 has a slight edge over the Bing Maps with the HTC Surround, but at least they both provide for some basic functionality. However, the Apple iPhone 4 gets treated to Street View and the ability to get mass transit, walking, and driving directions. Unfortunately for the Surround, it omits mass transit and street view with its repertoire – but at least you're subjected to the basics.


Before Windows Phone 7, there were few devices that offered the seamless and hassle-free messaging experience that the iPhone's on-screen keyboard is able to achieve. And even to this day, the iPhone 4 makes the task of whipping out a mean text message so effortlessly thanks to its responsiveness and auto-correct function. However, it's safe to say that the HTC Surround, with Windows Phone 7, also packs one of the better messaging experiences out there. Not only does it emulate the responsive feel seen with the iPhone 4, but it even does a nice job in correcting you. Sure it doesn't have copy & paste from the onset, but as we continue to see the platform evolve, it'll eventually make its way. So whichever device you plan on using, just expect to witness one of the best typing experiences on any mobile handset out there with both handsets.




Data and Connectivity:

Aside from their lack of Flash support, the web browsing experience with both devices is truly amazing – even more when they offer smooth kinetic scrolling. Internet Explorer is able to keep that level of responsiveness that Safari Mobile has been known to radiate since it burst onto the scene in 2007. Multi-touch support is enabled for both web browsers as pinch gestures are able to zoom in or out with no problems. However, the iPhone 4's Retina Display has the advantage with its stunning detail, especially when you're in a zoomed out view, as it's able to make even the tiniest of text very clear. It's not to say that the WVGA resolution in use with the Surround's 3.8” display isn't bad, but text can look somewhat garbled from far away. Additionally, the Retina Display is able to throw up more natural colors than the Surround's LCD panel. Still, both are clearly at the top of their games as they exhibit one of the best web browsing experiences you can find.



Since both are GSM handsets, you're not going to find any problems using them anywhere in the world. Additionally, they both offer Wi-Fi connectivity in the event you don't have sufficient connection to the network around your location. Moreover, both handsets feature Bluetooth and GPS to round out their arsenal.

Multimedia:

Cover flow with the iPhone has long been the king of the hill among music players since it just looks so darn pretty to this day – and there have been few to emulate its success. As we've seen some manufacturers follow in a similar manner with their own offerings, the HTC Surround goes on a complete tangent with its near breath taking presentation with the full Zune experience. In reality, it completely steers of course from the traditional path as it radiates one of the best looking interfaces we've seen on a mobile device. And adding to its stellar looks is the fact that the Surround's Dolby Mobile and SRS surround capable speaker easily blows away the audio emitted from the iPhone 4's speaker. It's clearly evident as the Surround's speaker is able to emit some heavy bass tones that make the iPhone 4 sound mute.



Thanks partly to its larger sized display and kickstand, the HTC Surround would be the better of the two in the video playback experience. Granted though, both handsets are able to play high quality videos without any problems, but it's the ample screen that will win over some people. Topping things off, of course, is the fact that you can experience a decent movie with the Surround's heart pounding speaker emitting tones fitting for the occasion.



Try as they must, the Apple iPhone 4 still continues to excel in the photo taking department thanks to the stunning details and color reproduction its 5-megapixel auto-focus camera is able to produce. Although it still manages to do an admirable job in taking photos, the HTC Surround's camera quality is still lacking versus the iPhone 4. Granted their outdoor shots come out with a really comparable quality (both handsets perform well), a difference is clearly visible in low lighting situations as the iPhone 4's back-lit illuminated sensor shines far better than the Surround. And to round things off, the flash performance with the iPhone 4 manages to retain some clarity and color balance, whereas the Surround's flash casts a bluish hue. With no question, it's a clear indicator that the iPhone 4 reigns supreme in this category. Aside from that, it's also nice that the front-facing camera found on the iPhone 4 makes it so simple to take self portraits.












For all of their high-end specs, it's not too hard to fathom seeing both devices sporting 720p video capture. But similar to the outcome we've just seen with their cameras, the iPhone 4 once again comes out on top partly due to its faster capture rate. Tallying at an impressive 30fps, it's instantly noticeable that it's smoother looking than the 24fps capture rate with the HTC Surround. Moreover, the low lighting video capture performance of the iPhone 4 continues to show off its prowess since the Surround's frame rate capture decreases immensely to a choppy 8fps. So if video recording is more in line with your liking, then you may want to stick with the iPhone 4 for this one.


HTC Surround Sample Video 1:




Apple iPhone Sample Video 1:




HTC Surround Sample Video 2:




Apple iPhone Sample Video 2:



The HTC Surround comes with 16GB of internal storage which should suffice for most users out there. On the flip side of things, the iPhone 4 is available in either 16GB or 32GB options – but naturally, both the 16GB iPhone 4 and HTC Surround are priced at $199.99 with a contract.

Performance:

Regretfully, both handsets are marred with some audible static noise in the background – which is even made more prominent with the Surround's deafening earpiece. However, its louder output over the iPhone 4 makes it a bit easier to distinguish voices. And at the same time, the same thing resonates with their speakerphone performance. The iPhone 4 might be decent enough for some people, but there's no arguing it's easier on the ear with the Surround's sharp tones.

There's no hiding that some iPhone users are gripped with certain reception issues, but for our unit, it performed equally to the HTC Surround in retaining a solid connection to the network. Additionally, we didn't experience any issues with dropped calls during out testing in the greater Philadelphia area.

After using both high-end smartphones for some time, there is no arguing that the iPhone 4 is able to push out more battery life than the HTC Surround. We were able to easily achieve a good solid day of normal usage with the iPhone – primarily sending text messages, emails, and web browsing. For the Surround, we were able to get up to around the 15 hour mark before it completely required a recharge.

Conclusion:

Based on our comparison, there is no kidding that the HTC Surround is an awesome multimedia centric handset that's probably best geared for those who want to watch videos and listen to music, due to its larger screen, kickstand and bigger speaker. If capturing photo and video content is your forte though, the Apple iPhone 4 is by far the better handset. Calling quality seems to be the same for both devices, but the Surround naturally puts out stronger tones with its speakers. And as for battery life, the iPhone 4 clearly has the advantage in this department as it edged out the HTC Surround on a day to day basis. Finally, we should not forget the enormous amount of apps found on the App Store, while the Windows Marketplace for Mobile is pretty bare compared to that. So you can obviously make the decision as to which handset you'd want to side with, but another interesting question is which user experience seems more likeable now.

Apple's iOS is a mature one that's been gradually improved since its inception, but Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 is an enticing new platform that's also filled with plenty of eye candy. Needless to say, the biggest focus that both platforms exhibit is that they place performance at the top of the list – which is known with their responsiveness and lightning quick execution. The HTC Surround is a great handset that showcases the possibilities that are expected to come out of Microsoft's next-gen platform, whereas, Apple's iOS is already at the top of the hill waiting for the next thing to catch up to its success. If you completely require all the rich and vast functionality that most platforms offer, then it's a safe bet to stick with the iPhone 4 since it pretty much encompasses a wide array of features akin to the modern smartphone user. However, if you feel like you need a change and want to experience something that's utterly different, then the HTC Surround should appease your curiosities. Sure it's unknown right now how well Microsoft's platform will be adopted by consumers, but there's no arguing that its focus is to offer a rich experience that's fitting for mobile.

HTC Surround vs Apple iPhone 4 Video Comparison: