LG G2 In 2020! (Still Worth It?) (Review)

TL;DR

The LG G2 remains noteworthy for its design and performance, but has significant reliability issues.

Transcript

welcome back everyone today is a very special day we get to talk about a phone that I kind of talk about a lot on this channel surprisingly and it might seem like a very random phone like bro why talking about this phone like there's so many other phones you know in the marketplace why do you keep coming back to a phone that came out in 2013 and th... Read More

Key Insights

• 😒 The LG G2 retains a special place in the creator’s history as their bridge from Android to iPhone, due to its long-term use and nostalgic significance.
• 🎨 Design has been a standout feature of the LG G2, making it appealing even against the backdrop of modern smartphones.
• 🥾 Hardware issues like boot looping and touchscreen sensitivity problems limit the appeal of the LG G2 despite its historical performance strengths.
• 🧭 The device’s software is outdated, with the last official update long passed, which impacts its functionality in today’s mobile environment.
• 😤 Custom ROMs have revitalized the LG G2 for some users, enabling them to run newer versions of Android and regain some of the functionality.
• 👤 Notably, the camera was considered innovative for its time, producing impressive results that still resonate positively with many users.
• 🤕 User sentiment tends to favor the G2’s overall durability, despite the age of the hardware and the issues faced over prolonged usage.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why does the creator frequently discuss the LG G2 despite it being an older model?

The creator often revisits the LG G2 because it was the last Android phone they extensively used before switching to an iPhone. The phone holds sentimental value, as it accompanied them during critical growth phases of their YouTube channel and has been reliable overall, reflecting fond memories.

Q: What are some common issues experienced by LG G2 users?

Many users reported problems such as boot looping, where the phone would get stuck on the LG logo during startup, and touchscreen failures where certain areas would become unresponsive. These hardware reliability issues can severely limit user experience and make troubleshooting difficult, especially for those who cannot install alternative custom ROMs.

Q: How does the design of the LG G2 compare to modern smartphones?

The design of the LG G2 is still regarded as timeless, with aesthetics that remain favorable compared to many contemporary devices. Its solid build quality and ergonomic features like back buttons have contributed to its lasting appeal, making it stand out even among newer models that can appear more generic.

Q: How does the performance of the LG G2 hold up in comparison to newer smartphones?

The LG G2 was praised for its performance during its time, powered by a Snapdragon 800 chipset. However, while it felt fast for its era, comparing it to modern day devices, it is considered average at best today. The performance can still be somewhat satisfactory if upgraded with custom ROMs, but it falls short against newer smartphones in speed and capability.

Q: What are the notable strengths of the LG G2's camera?

The LG G2 features a 13-megapixel camera, which was highly regarded during its release. It supports 1080p video recording at 60 frames per second. Users have noted that, even today, the camera can produce high-quality photos, and there were methods to enable 4K recording through hacks, showcasing its potential relative to newer models.

Q: Why is the lack of software updates a concern for LG G2?

The LG G2 originally launched with Android 4.2.2 and received limited official updates since. This outdated software can be problematic for users seeking modern features and security patches. Custom ROMs provide some relief, allowing users to upgrade their phone to newer Android versions, but the lack of official support is still a significant drawback.

Q: What role does the community play in maintaining the LG G2?

The community has been instrumental in supporting the LG G2 through the development of custom ROMs, allowing users to install newer Android versions and maintain functionality. While support for specific models like the Verizon version is lower, the G2 itself still sees continuous development, helping to keep its legacy alive among enthusiasts.

Q: Is the LG G2 recommended for new buyers today?

While the LG G2 was a beloved phone, potential buyers today are advised against purchasing it primarily due to its known reliability issues and the risk of experiencing boot loops or touchscreen failures. Despite its nostalgic value and decent specifications, the drawbacks outweigh the benefits for most users looking for a dependable smartphone.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The LG G2, launched in 2013, is fondly remembered for its design and solid performance, being the creator's last primary Android phone before switching to iPhone.

• While the device faced boot looping, touchscreen issues, and outdated software, custom ROMs have allowed some users to extend its lifespan and functionality.

• Despite its flaws, the G2's camera quality and battery life were commendable for its time, though current hardware issues and lack of updates make it less recommendable today.