u/Just_Avocado2761

I’ve been trying to reduce my device clutter without sacrificing security or my dev workflow. I just added a Pixel 5 (€190) to my stack, and I’ve realized that instead of one $1,000 "do-it-all" flagship, a 3-device functional split is more effective.

Here is how I’ve optimized their roles to keep my pockets light and my banking safe:

1. The Daily Workhorse (Oppo Reno7 Lite):

• Role: Primary daily driver and Banking Device.
• The "Why": I refuse to give up the physical notification LEDs (Orbit Light) on the Reno. I hate AOD, and this hardware feature is irreplaceable for my workflow. Since it’s my "clean" stock phone, it’s also the safest place for my primary banking apps to stay compliant with Play Integrity.

2. The Master Node & Dev Tool (Pixel 5):

• Role: App development, heavy multitasking, and Unlimited Storage.
• The "Why": With 8GB of RAM, the P5 handles IDE/browser switching better than modern budget phones. More importantly, it’s my "Upload Station." By syncing all my media to the P5 for Unlimited Storage Saver backup, I effectively bypass the Google One subscription tax forever.

3. The Legacy Tester (iPhone SE):

• Role: Physical iOS testing only.
• Optimization: Since I have a Mac M2 with full simulators, I’ve retired my extra physical Android test bricks. I keep the SE in a drawer and only pull it out for hardware-specific iOS edge cases (camera, haptics) that the simulator can't perfect.

The "Consolidation" Result: I only carry the Reno and the Pixel. The iPhone stays home. I get the hardware features I love, the dev power I need, and zero monthly storage fees.

My Questions for the Community:

• To the collectors: At what point does "optimizing" become "hoarding"? Am I better off carrying two phones, or should I be looking for one device that has both 8GB+ RAM and a physical notification LED? (Does that even exist anymore?)
• To the devs: How much do you trust M2 simulators vs. physical hardware in 2026? Are you comfortable retiring your physical test devices yet?
• The P5 Longevity: For those still on the Pixel 5, is the Snapdragon 765G finally hitting a wall, or is the RAM/Unlimited Storage keeping it in your pocket?