This comparison pits the venerable Google Nexus 5 (made by LG) against the new HTC One M8. Yes, we realize that the Nexus 5 has been out for a while, but the first batch of new flagships for 2014 have about the same processors as those in late 2013, only overclocked or recycled – nothing like a new Snapdragon 805 or 64-bit processing. The screens are still the same Full HD with 1080p resolution used last year, no surprises there. We always like to compare Google’s Nexus device with the newer ones and this should be a very good comparison.

The screens are the same size and both are even of the LCD variety. They both use the Qualcomm Snapdragon quad-core processor, although the one in the HTC One M8 is the ‘jacked-up’ version of the 800, not a pure 801. They both have 2GB or RAM and offer 16GB or 32GB of internal storage, but the HTC One M8 does have a microSD slot for adding up to 128GB of internal storage. They both are running Android 4.4.2 KitKat, the Nexus runs the pure form while the HTC One M8 uses the popular Sense 6.0 skin over top of the KitKat. Like we said, very similar devices – take a look at the specification sheet below and compare the two devices. Then you can read about some of the differences as we struggle to pick a winner.

Specifications

Nexus 5

The Nexus 5 is the best rendition of the Nexus line ever – made by LG, everything was better on this newest model over the Nexus 4 (also made by LG).  The best processor, at the time, is included as well as packing it with 2GB of RAM and offering the 16GB and 32GB versions for a real bargain at $349 and $399 off contract.  Google still refuses to include a microSD card slot for additional storage – advantage to the HTC One M8. The Nexus 5 is a nice looking, minimalistic device, but the HTC One M8’s beautiful aluminum body and dual stereo speakers really outshine the Nexus 5 – advantage to the HTC One M8.  The battery is only 2300mAh vs the HTC One M8’s 2600mAh – advantage to the HTC One M8.  The cameras, though designed differently, are similar with the Nexus 5 using an 8MP shooter.  Google has updated the camera software to make it better, but the camera and battery life were always the discussion points of the Nexus line…but then you have to understand that for the price, the Nexus 5 offers a great bargain.

HTC One M8

The new HTC One M8 is an awesome device – it has a beautiful aluminum body, although subject to dents and scratches, and the best sounding speakers you could ask for on a smartphone and HTC gave them a 25-percent boost in sound and they claim better clarity – and in those two categories, the scales are definitely in favor of the HTC One M8. It does have a slightly improved processor and the capability of adding 128GB of internal storage. The battery is slightly larger, and even though the same camera used on the M8 is the same as last year’s M7, with the addition of the Duo camera, dual LED flash and software, the camera still out shines the Nexus 5’s 8MP shooter.  The inclusion of the IR Blaster is a nice touch, but the headphone jack on the bottom is still a stupid idea, ala Apple.

…And the Winner is…the HTC One M8

 Summary

Based on the specifications and build, we had to choose the new HTC One M8 over the Nexus 5. Let me get one thing out-of-the-way – for the money, the Nexus 5 is a steal, but with the HTC One M8 out for $199 on a two-year contract, and even BOGO, it is hard to discount the fact that the HTC One M8 is also a bargain. And if you take it beyond the dollars and cents, the HTC One M8 just outshines the Nexus 5 at every turn, maybe not by much, but taken as a complete package, the HTC One M8 is simply a more desirable device.  Design, battery, expanded storage, and speakers take it over the top. For Android purists, only the Nexus 5 might do, but many prefer the extra options that Sense 6.0 allows.

Please let us know on our Google+ Page what you think – we always love to hear your opinions…would you chose the Nexus 5 or the new HTC One M8 if you were buying a new smartphone today?