LG G3 S InDepth Review of Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Network and Launch

The LG G3 S was announced in July 2014 and released in August of the same year. Unfortunately, it is currently discontinued. The device supports several network technologies including GSM, HSPA, and LTE. The 2G bands include GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900, while the 3G and 4G bands include different configurations to support global connectivity. The device boasts a speed of HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, making it well-suited for users who required robust data transmission capabilities at the time.

Body and Design

The LG G3 S is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring body dimensions of 137.7 x 69.6 x 10.3 mm, making it compact and easy to handle. Weighing just 134 grams, the phone offers portability without sacrificing durability. It is designed to be used with a Micro-SIM card, ensuring users have access to mobile networks. The device is available in three colors, namely Metallic Black, Silk White, and Shine Gold, allowing users to choose a style that best suits their personal tastes.

Display Features

The LG G3 S features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display, offering a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 71.9%. This design provides an immersive viewing experience for users who enjoy multimedia. The screen resolution is 720 x 1280 pixels, with a density of around 294 ppi, ensuring sharp and vibrant visuals. The display is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which offers substantial resistance to scratches and minor impacts.

Platform and Performance

Operating on Android 4.4.2 KitKat, the LG G3 S is upgradable to Android 5.0.2 Lollipop, adding longevity to its usability. At its core, the device runs on a Qualcomm MSM8926 Snapdragon 400 chipset supported by a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and an Adreno 305 GPU. This configuration offers decent performance for everyday tasks and moderate multitasking, ideal for users who prioritize efficiency and reliability over high-end performance.

Memory and Storage

The LG G3 S comes with 1GB of RAM and internal storage capacity of 8GB. However, for users requiring additional storage, the device includes a dedicated microSDXC slot, enabling storage expansion to accommodate more apps, photos, and videos. This flexibility ensures users can tailor their device to better meet their storage needs.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a single 8 MP main camera, the LG G3 S includes Laser Autofocus for quick focusing and sharp images. The camera also supports LED flash and HDR, providing photography tools essential for capturing quality images in various lighting conditions. It is capable of recording video in 1080p at 30fps, which is suitable for capturing important moments with clarity. The front-facing camera features a 1.3 MP sensor, serving basic selfie and video calling functions.

Sound and Connectivity

The device includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to both private listening and general media consumption. Connectivity options are extensive; it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, and hotspots. The inclusion of Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, LE, and aptX ensures seamless wireless audio streaming and file transfers. It also features positioning services such as GPS and GLONASS, and additional connectivity includes NFC, an infrared port, FM radio with RDS, and microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer.

Sensors and Additional Features

The LG G3 S includes several sensors such as an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, which enhance the device's functionality by supporting apps that rely on these technologies. Despite its mid-range positioning, the device provides valuable connectivity features and sensors typically found in higher-end models.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 2540 mAh battery, a feature becoming rare in modern smartphones. In terms of longevity, the battery provides up to 700 hours of standby time on 2G networks and up to 750 hours on 3G. For talk time, it can provide up to 16 hours on 2G and up to 15 hours on 3G, catering well to users who need a reliable phone for long periods between charges.

Conclusion

The LG G3 S, despite being discontinued, offers a suitable balance of functionality, performance, and design for users who appreciate mid-range smartphones with reliable features. Its compact design, decent camera setup, sufficient processing power, and connectivity options make it a practical choice for everyday use. With the variety of features packed into this device at a reasonable price point, it remains a worthy consideration for individuals seeking a balanced smartphone experience.