HTC U11+ review

While it's the most powerful version HTC has released so far, the U11+ isn’t a huge leap in specs when compared to the original. Even in terms of design, it looks very similar. It is slightly taller and thinner, with smaller bezels. It’s also heavier, weighing in at 188 grams instead of 160 grams.

The U11+ comes with the same "Liquid Surface" design, offering an attractive combination of metal and glass. While reviewers liked how sleek it looked, they noticed the glass rear attracted fingerprints and smudges. Still, it was easy enough for them to wipe down and the glass rear was sturdy enough to resist scratches even when dropped on the ground or knocked against keys.

HTC has upped the IP rating to IP68 for better waterproofing. The U11+ can handle a puddle or pool for a few seconds and surface unscathed.

The main reason the U11+ is larger is its 6-inch display. HTC opted for a Super LCD panel with a resolution of 1,440-by-2,800. Critics found the screen to be sharp with nary a pixel in sight.

They were let down somewhat with color vibrancy when compared to flagships with AMOLED technology. The daylight visibility was also lacking when compared to competitors, such as the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. They mention the blacks were not as deep though whites were clean.

That said, most found the screen good enough. They add most regular consumers won’t notice a huge difference between competitors unless they compare it side-by-side.

While the U11+ has the same processor as its predecessor, it bumps up the RAM to 6GB. Benchmark tests put it below the Galaxy S8 during single-core processes. Once multi-core is enabled, it takes the lead. Real life testing reflects these scores, providing experts with a lag and stutter-free experience.

The extra weight of the device comes from including a 3,930mAh battery. Reviewers could easily go a full day on a single charge—even with heavy use. With more moderate use, most could get 1.5 days without issue. And should you run out of juice, it comes with quick charge capabilities.

The U11+ uses the same hardware as the original—a 12MP sensor with optical image stabilization. HTC also included a proprietary technology called HTC Boost. Its meant to capture more color detail during night shots and gather more dynamic range.

Experts were pleased with image quality in almost every lighting situation. Night and extreme-low light pictures featured little noise. More importantly, they were impressed with how much color the camera could pull out despite the poor lighting.

In good lighting situations, the camera captured images with high detail, excellent contrast, and natural colors.

Reviewers highly suggest purchasing the HTC U11+, that is, if it’s available in your region. The biggest downfall of the device is that it’s not available everywhere. So you’re out of luck if you live in the US.

Still, critics say it’s certainly worth it. Android Central states, “... the U11+ is a top-notch... flagship with solid construction, a beautiful glass design... a fantastic camera, and dependable battery life.” Tech Advisor adds, “It’s a worthy upgrade to the U11…”