Nexus 5 In 2020! (Still Worth It?) (Review)

TL;DR

The LG Nexus 5 remains a nostalgic, mod-friendly phone despite outdated specs and limited current usability.

Transcript

welcome back everyone so a phone that I always wanted to own back in that day was that LG Nexus 5 that was one of the phones that I know I saw I was like man that is a phone it is so minimalistic at its core it's so good-looking and unfortunately I was never able to buy it but I did settle with the Nexus 4 and I love that phone a lot I used that ph... Read More

Key Insights

• 😫 The Nexus 5's minimalism set trends for future smartphones, influencing designs focused on simplicity and usability.
• 🛃 New Android versions and backgrounds can be custom installed, offering longevity for those willing to modify their devices.
• 😒 Performance-wise, the device is acceptable for casual use, but it does not perform adequately for more demanding applications in 2020.
• ⌛ The camera offerings may have been decent for its time but are significantly underwhelming compared to modern smartphone capabilities.
• 🫡 Despite outdated specs, the Nexus 5 remains a fantastic education tool for individuals interested in learning mobile development and customization.
• 👾 The lack of modern features, such as waterproofing and wireless charging, illustrates the rapid pace of smartphone technology advancement.
• 🫥 The Nexus line significantly influenced the Android ecosystem, promoting stock experiences over heavily customized interfaces from manufacturers.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why was the LG Nexus 5 considered iconic upon its release?

The LG Nexus 5 was recognized for its sleek, minimalistic design and stock Android experience, deviating from the flashy aesthetics of contemporaries. It provided a pure Android interface and strong developer support, giving users access to custom ROMs and modifications that were rare in other budget devices at that time.

Q: What advantages does the Nexus 5 have for developers or modders?

The Nexus 5 stands out due to its active developer community, featuring universal custom ROMs that facilitate easy modification. The abundance of support allows users to enjoy updated Android experiences long after official support has ended, making it a great choice for anyone interested in learning about phone development and customization.

Q: How does the performance of the Nexus 5 compare to modern devices?

While the Nexus 5's Snapdragon 800 chipset was adequate in 2013, its performance pales against today's devices. For users performing basic tasks or light apps, the Nexus 5 still holds its ground, but for heavy gaming or multitasking, modern smartphones dramatically outperform it.

Q: What should users be aware of regarding the battery life of the Nexus 5?

The Nexus 5 features a 2300 mAh battery, which was criticized at its launch for being smaller than competitors. Over time, battery degradation has worsened its already limited endurance. Although battery replacement is possible, users should consider this shortcoming when evaluating the device for current use.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The LG Nexus 5, released in 2013, is praised for its minimalistic design and strong development community, making it ideal for modifications.

• While not recommended as a primary phone in 2020, the Nexus 5 offers a robust platform for enthusiasts interested in rooting and custom ROMs.

• Its performance, camera, and battery life don't meet modern standards but can still fulfill niche uses, particularly for development purposes.