LG K3 Unveiled Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to LG K3

The LG K3 is a budget-friendly smartphone that was announced in August 2016 and released in September of the same year. While it has been discontinued, it remains a point of interest for those looking at the evolution of budget smartphones. Known for its basic yet reliable features, the LG K3 targets entry-level users or those seeking a secondary device. In this article, we'll delve into the specifications, performance, and overall user experience of the LG K3.

Design and Build Quality

The LG K3 features a compact design measuring 133.8 x 67.7 x 9.4 mm and weighs 127 grams. Its build is primarily plastic, which is typical for entry-level smartphones. The phone is available in two color variants: Black and Dark Blue. The rounded edges make it comfortable to hold and use with one hand, which is ideal for users who prefer smaller devices. Despite its basic materials, the K3 feels solid and is practical for everyday use.

Display

The device boasts a 4.5-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio. This results in a pixel density of approximately 218 ppi, which is sufficient for general tasks such as browsing and messaging. While it may not offer the vivid colors and sharpness seen in higher-end models, the display is adequate for day-to-day usage and offers decent viewing angles.

Performance

The LG K3 is powered by a Mediatek MT6737M chipset, coupled with a quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. There is also a variant with the Snapdragon 210 (28 nm) processor. These components work alongside 1 GB of RAM, providing basic multitasking capabilities. Although the processing power is modest, it is sufficient for handling basic applications and tasks smoothly. For graphics, the device features a Mali-T720MP2 or Adreno 304 GPU, depending on the model.

Storage

The phone comes with 8 GB of internal storage, which may seem limited by today’s standards. However, it does offer a microSDHC slot for expandable storage, allowing users to add additional memory to store apps, photos, and media.

Camera Capabilities

The LG K3 is equipped with a 5 MP main camera, which includes LED flash in the LS450 model, and supports video recording at 720p@30fps. While not designed for professional photography, the camera serves adequately for casual snapshots and video recording in good lighting conditions. The phone also includes a VGA front-facing camera for basic selfie-taking and video calls.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 1940 mAh battery. Given the phone's processing capabilities and display size, this battery provides decent life, often lasting a full day with moderate use. The removable battery feature is especially handy for users who prefer carrying a spare or simply replacing the battery once it loses capacity over time.

Operating System and Software

The LG K3 runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow. This version of Android, albeit dated, includes a range of features such as Google Now on Tap, Doze for improved battery life, and better app permissions management. The LG user interface is layered on top of Android, offering a straightforward and user-friendly experience without overwhelming users with excessive features.

Connectivity Options

The phone offers a range of connectivity options, including support for GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE networks. It also features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, and FM radio. However, NFC and LTE Advanced features are not available with this model, keeping the connectivity focused on essentials.

Additional Features

Some additional features of the LG K3 include a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is increasingly rare in modern phones. It also has a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer. In terms of sensors, the device comes with an accelerometer. These features, although basic, ensure that the device provides the necessary functionality for everyday tasks.

Price and Availability

At launch, the LG K3 was priced at around 100 EUR, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. Although it has been discontinued, it can sometimes be found through third-party sellers or as a refurbished model, still appealing to users looking for affordability.

Conclusion

The LG K3 is a budget-friendly smartphone catering to users seeking basic functionality. Its compact design, essential features, and affordable price point make it suitable for entry-level users or as a secondary device. While it lacks the high-end specifications and features of modern smartphones, it provides a reliable and straightforward user experience for everyday activities.