Price and specifications of LG K3 (2017) advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Design and Build

The LG K3 (2017) is a compact and budget-friendly smartphone that is designed to cater to the basic needs of users. With its dimensions of 133.9 x 69.8 x 9.5 mm, the device fits comfortably in the hand and is easy to operate. Weighing just 132 grams, it is light and portable, making it a convenient option for people on the go.

The phone features a plastic build, which is typical for devices in this price range. The overall design is simple and functional, with a focus on usability rather than aesthetic appeal. It features a single Micro-SIM or Dual SIM setup, depending on the model, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their needs.

Display

The LG K3 (2017) sports a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels. With a 16:9 aspect ratio and approximately 218 pixels per inch density, the display offers decent clarity and color reproduction for basic tasks such as browsing, messaging, and viewing media.

While the screen-to-body ratio is around 59.7%, which is lower compared to modern smartphones, the display still offers a satisfactory viewing experience considering the phone’s market segment and price point. The size is adequate for users who prefer compact devices.

Performance

Under the hood, the LG K3 (2017) is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 chipset. This 28 nm chipset features a Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and an Adreno 304 GPU. While not designed for heavy multitasking or gaming, the processor is sufficient for basic smartphone functions such as calling, texting, and light app usage.

The device packs 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDHC card slot. This configuration is typical for entry-level smartphones, but users may find it limiting if they intend to use multiple apps or store a lot of media files.

Operating System

Running on Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, the LG K3 (2017) provides a straightforward user interface with access to the Google Play Store, where users can download a variety of applications. Although not the most recent version, Marshmallow includes essential features like Doze mode for battery saving and improved app permissions.

However, due to the older software, users may not have access to the latest features and updates provided by newer versions of Android.

Camera

The LG K3 (2017) is equipped with a basic camera setup. The rear camera has a 5 MP sensor accompanied by an LED flash and is capable of recording 720p videos at 30fps. While not ideal for professional photography, it is sufficient for taking everyday shots and videos in well-lit conditions.

The front-facing camera features a 2 MP sensor, suitable for casual selfies and video calls. The camera performance is modest, meeting the basic requirements of users who do not prioritize photography in their smartphone experience.

Battery Life

The device comes with a removable Li-Ion 2100 mAh battery. According to the specifications, the phone can provide up to 500 hours of standby time and up to 5 hours and 30 minutes of talk time on a 3G network. The removable battery design allows users to easily replace the battery if needed, prolonging the life of the device.

Given the modest hardware, the battery life is reasonable, but heavy use may require more frequent charging.

Connectivity and Sensors

The LG K3 (2017) supports a range of connectivity options, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE network technologies, ensuring that users can stay connected on the go. The phone includes WLAN support for Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Wi-Fi Direct, as well as Bluetooth 4.1 with A2DP and LE profiles. Positioning is provided by GPS and GLONASS.

While NFC is not present, the phone does feature FM radio, and a 3.5mm audio jack. For charging and data transfer, a microUSB 2.0 port is used. The device includes basic sensors such as an accelerometer, covering essential needs for app and feature functionalities.

Price and Availability

The LG K3 (2017) was initially announced in December 2016 and released in April 2017. Priced at approximately 90 EUR during its release, it was targeted at consumers looking for an affordable and simple smartphone solution. Although the device has been discontinued, it offered reasonable value for money, especially for users with basic needs.

It was available in black, which further emphasizes its basic and functional design philosophy. As the phone is no longer available from major retailers, potential buyers would need to explore secondary markets or used phone marketplaces.