LG U Comprehensive Review of Specs Pricing & Performance

Design and Build

The LG U, announced in October 2016 and released in November of the same year, stands out with its sleek and slender design. With dimensions of 147.6 x 73.2 x 7.7 mm and a weight of just 135 grams, it fits comfortably in hand, providing a pleasant user experience. The phone features a high-quality build with a choice of colors including white, black, and pink, catering to varied user preferences. Its design elegantly balances aesthetics and ergonomics, making it a device that is both stylish and functional.

Display

The LG U is equipped with a 5.2-inch IPS LCD display, offering a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels and a pixel density of approximately 424 ppi. This results in a crisp and clear display, perfect for enjoying high-definition content. The 16:9 aspect ratio provides a traditional viewing experience, suitable for browsing, media consumption, and everyday tasks. The screen-to-body ratio stands around 69%, which is adequate for its time, ensuring an immersive viewing experience.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the LG U houses an Octa-core 1.14 GHz processor, paired with 2GB of RAM. This setup, while modest by today's standards, was adequate for basic multitasking and running standard applications during its time. The device operates on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, which, back in 2016, brought several improvements such as better app permissions, Doze mode for battery saving, and Google Now on Tap for robust search capabilities.

Camera Capabilities

Photography enthusiasts receive a decent offering with the LG U. The device features a 13 MP rear camera which supports autofocus. It comes with an LED flash and features such as HDR and panorama, ensuring vibrant photos even in challenging lighting conditions. For video recording, the rear camera supports 1080p at 30fps. On the front, there's an 8 MP camera, suitable for selfies and video calls, also supporting 1080p video recording.

Storage Options

The device offers 32GB of internal storage, which can house numerous apps, photos, and videos. Additionally, it supports microSDXC cards through a dedicated slot, allowing users to expand their storage further. This flexibility is invaluable for users who have extensive media libraries or a large collection of apps.

Battery and Connectivity

Powering the LG U is a 3000 mAh Li-Ion battery, which, though non-removable, provides sufficient power for a day's use, depending on user behavior and settings. Connectivity options include GSM / HSPA / LTE network technologies, supporting a range of 2G, 3G, and 4G bands. The phone offers Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct for better connectivity, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP and LE, GPS for navigation, and microUSB 2.0 for charging and data transfer.

Audio and Multimedia

Regarding audio, the LG U provides a good listening experience with a built-in loudspeaker and a traditional 3.5mm audio jack, allowing the use of standard headphones. The absence of NFC and radio is notable, but the phone manages to cater to most audio and communication needs effectively. The design focuses on maintaining a balance between essential multimedia features and overall device functionality.

Sensors and Features

The LG U is equipped with essential sensors, including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors enhance the user experience by enabling features such as auto-rotation, adaptive display brightness, and accurate location tracking. The absence of a fingerprint sensor may be felt by those who value biometric security options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the LG U represents a well-rounded smartphone option from 2016, geared towards users seeking a reliable device with essential features. While it does not compete with flagship models in terms of raw power or cutting-edge technology, it effectively serves its purpose as a practical and aesthetically pleasing smartphone. Its strengths lie in its display, form factor, and user-oriented features, making it a commendable choice for everyday smartphone users during its time in the market.