LG K8 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of LG K8

The LG K8, announced in February 2016 and released in April of the same year, was a smartphone designed to meet the needs of users seeking a budget-friendly yet functional device. It combined essential features with a modest design, positioned within the entry-level segment. Despite being discontinued, the LG K8 remains a topic of interest for its value-oriented specifications and usage in the smartphone landscape during its time.

Design and Build

The LG K8 featured a practical and straightforward design, characterized by a glass front, plastic back, and a plastic frame, making it lightweight at just 157 grams. It measured 144.6 x 71.5 x 8.7 mm, providing a comfortable grip and ease of handling. The phone was available in classic color options, Black and White, which complemented its minimalist aesthetics.

Display Characteristics

Equipped with a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display, the LG K8 offered a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of around 294 ppi. The screen-to-body ratio stood at approximately 66.7%, which means the display provided sufficient viewing area for videos and browsing without making the device bulky.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the phone was powered by a Mediatek MT6735 chipset, accompanied by a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and a Mali-T720MP2 GPU. While not a powerhouse, the LG K8 managed day-to-day tasks and light gaming efficiently. Initially launching with Android 6.0 Marshmallow, it was upgradable to Android 7.0 Nougat, offering users some level of modern software experience for its time.

Camera Capabilities

The smartphone was equipped with an 8 MP rear camera featuring an f/2.4 aperture and autofocus capability. Additional features included LED flash and panorama mode, providing users with basic photography tools. It was capable of recording videos at 1080p@30fps. The 5 MP front camera, with 720p video recording capability, catered to selfie needs and video calls.

Memory and Storage

The LG K8 offered two variants in terms of internal storage: 8GB and 16GB, both paired with 1.5GB of RAM. A dedicated microSDHC slot allowed users to expand storage for additional files and applications, a critical feature given the limited internal storage options.

Network and Connectivity

The device supported a range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, with provisions for dual-SIM models. It offered connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, and DLNA for media sharing. Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP ensured reliable wireless audio streaming, and integrated GPS and GLONASS supported navigation services. Additionally, NFC and FM radio with RDS were included, enhancing utility and entertainment options.

Battery Life

With a removable Li-Ion 2125 mAh battery, the LG K8 was designed to cater to moderate usage throughout the day. The option for battery removal allowed users to easily swap batteries, providing a practical solution for extending the phone's operational time without needing a power outlet.

Price and Market Position

Upon launch, the LG K8 was priced at approximately 120 EUR, placing it in the affordable segment for consumers. This price point, combined with its array of features, made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Models such as the K350, LM-X212(G), K373, and VS500PP were part of the lineup, each catering to specific market requirements.

Conclusion

The LG K8, despite its modest specifications and entry-level positioning, played a key role in LG's smartphone offerings at the time. It combined essential smartphone capabilities with a budget-friendly approach, making it suitable for users who required a functional device without high-end features. Its design, coupled with expandability options and basic media capabilities, ensured it met the fundamental needs of its target audience. The LG K8 remains a testament to balancing affordability with quality in the dynamic smartphone market.