The LG G4 was one of the most recognized flagships of its generation. It wouldn't seem logical to talk about the LG G5 before time, if it weren't for the leaks that predicted a very soon presentation. In this analysis, we've gathered the key technical features of the LG G5, its design approach, its module system, how it was launched and the starting price with which it reached the main markets.
LG G5: Flexible screen
One of the most talked-about new features of the LG G5 was its display. The possibility of a flexible and even foldable panel was considered., and there was even speculation about a 5,6-inch diagonal with 4K resolution. The commercial version, however, opted for a 5,3-inch IPS panel with QuadHD resolution (2.560 x 1.440), density close to 554 dpi and Quantum IPS technology to improve contrast and color reproduction compared to other traditional IPS.
Far from the promise of a foldable screen, the differential value came from specific functions. The most notable was Always On, which allows you to see time and notifications in standby. On an LCD panel like the G5's, LG optimized this feature so that its impact on battery life would be very small. This was added to an enhanced brightness mode for outdoors that, when direct light hits, push the nits in a timely manner and helps maintain correct visibility without the need to manually activate extreme levels.
In real-life use, the LG G5's display offers great sharpness, well-calibrated colors and solid blacks for IPSWhile it doesn't quite match the contrast of a newer AMOLED, the Quantum panel makes up for it with vibrant color reproduction and precise touch response, reinforcing its usefulness for multimedia, reading, and browsing.
Thus, although the G5 did not materialize the jump to a flexible screen in its final product, it did consolidate a balanced panel in size, definition and intelligent functions, very much in line with what a high-end user demands.
LG G5: Design
Little was initially said about the design of the LG G5, beyond the expectation of a leap in materials. LG made the move to a one-piece metal body with soft lines and rounded edges that provide good grip without compromising size. At first glance, the union between the back and front without a well-defined classic frame provides visual continuity, and the upper glass is integrated with a very subtle curvature that softens the transition.
The most striking element is its modular systemThe lower part, popularly known as the “Magic Slot”, is detached by a sturdy tab to make way for interchangeable modules. anchoring is secure and requires firmness when closing so that it fits perfectly. One detail to consider: every time we change modules, the phone restart due to the lack of an internal auxiliary battery to keep the system on during the exchange.
The change to LG's classic controls is also noticeable: the volume keys move to the side, Whereas the power button with fingerprint reader It is kept in the back. This arrangement is comfortable with the habit, and the reader responds Speed with just a touch of your finger, even when the screen is locked. At the port level, the bottom edge integrates USB-C and main speaker; the upper one, infrared emitter and 3,5mm headphone jack.
The result is a smartphone with own personality, without water resistance certification as a counterpart to modularity, but with a careful finish, a contained weight and a well-used front.
LG G5: Performance
As a flagship, the LG G5 was supposed to offer high performance. Instead of the speculated combination of CPU and RAM of different capacities, the final version opted for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820, a quad-core Kryo chip accompanied by the Adreno GPU 530 y 4GB DDR4 RAM. In practice, it is a configuration that places the G5 among the most powerful in its segment, with a smooth experience in multitasking, browsing, social networking, and demanding games without annoying overheating.
Internal storage part of 32 GB and can be expanded with cards microSD up to 2 TB, which in real life allows you to forget about space for photos, videos and apps. In terms of connectivity, the terminal adds High-end LTE, WiFi ac, Bluetooth 4.2, NFC and issuer IR to control devices. The presence of USB-C 3.1 guarantees fast transfers and compatibility with the most advanced fast charging in Qualcomm's catalog for its generation.
Beyond the numbers, what is relevant is that the G5 maintains a performance challenge, without sudden drops or unexpected shutdowns, and with an optimized customization layer that prevents it from slowing down. It's a device built to last with sustained performance and effortlessly handle creative tasks like photo editing, video editing, or intensive gaming.
LG G5: Cameras
The focusing system combines laser and contrast detection, and the dual-LED flash offers a more natural color balance. In video, recording in 4K with stabilization and stereo audio capture offers a reliable result for vlogs and family clips. The front camera of 8 SM With an f/2.0 aperture, it takes good selfies and video calls with sufficient detail.
The camera app, one of LG's strong points, features modes manual with control over ISO, shutter speed, focus, and white balance, and preset profiles that facilitate fast results. Instant switching between sensors adds versatility, and HDR mode helps balance high-contrast scenes. Overall, it's a photographic system very competitive which takes advantage of both optics and software to achieve good photos in most situations.
LG G5: Battery
In the first bars there was talk of a battery of 4.000 mAh to offset demands for 4K displays and larger diagonals. The final version of the LG G5 introduced a different approach: 2.800 mAh removable through the modular system. This movement brought back to the high-end the possibility of swap battery and add modules without giving up a metal body.
The autonomy is balanced for its panel and power, and is supported by Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, capable of recovering a large part of the charge in a very short time (with official data close to 80% in half an hour under specific conditions). The Always On function, meanwhile, is optimized to consume little, so it does not significantly penalize daily use.
Those who needed more hours away from the plug could rely on launch promotions with extra battery and in modules that provide extra power, in addition to the efficiency of the Snapdragon 820, which manages load well at rest and during recurring tasks.
LG G5: Modular System and LG Friends
The big secret of the G5 hidden in its lower part was popularly called design modularAlthough its practical scope was limited, it opened the door to interchangeable modules and accessories that expanded functionality. Two were directly integrated with the detachable base:
- LG HiFi Plus (in collaboration with B&O): module with 32-bit DAC and amplifier to enhance sound quality, designed for audiophiles and use with high-impedance headphones.
- LG CamPlus: A photographic grip with physical buttons for shooting and video, zoom wheel and a extra 1.200 mAh battery for longer sessions.
Under the umbrella LG Friends Complementary accessories were also launched, such as the 360 VR glasses, the 360 camera for spherical photos and videos or a robot controllable from the phone. While the proposal was successful daringThe widespread adoption of modules never quite took off; however, the G5 demonstrated an interesting idea: improving specific features without changing the phone.
Software and experience
The LG G5 came with Android and the layer LG UX updated for its launch, with a clear interface, added features, and very accessible quick settings. A special feature of that version was the management of the App Drawer (app drawer), initially disabled and reintroduced as an option at user request. The experience is characterized by seamless transitions agile, useful notification panel and built-in tools like the screenshot capturer with annotations.
El fingerprint sensor rear integrates with the unlock experience, compatible mobile payments and access control to sensitive applications. The Notification LED Configurable and the Always On function complete a set that improves daily productivity. Over time, the model received system updates that have extended their lifespan. As with any device with several cycles under its belt, support for new versions and security patches may no longer be up to date depending on the market and operator.
Connectivity, audio and sensors
The LG G5's connectivity profile is very complete: High-speed LTE (advanced categories according to variant), 802.11 WiFi a / b / g / n / ac dual band, Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX HD for 24-bit audio over Bluetooth, NFC y DLNA. The presence of infrared allows you to control televisions and audio equipment from your mobile phone, and the USB-C 3.1 speeds up data transfer and charging.
In the sound section, the lower speaker offers a high volume with good definition at moderate volumes. The connector 3,5 mm brings versatility with wired headphones, and the support of aptX HD shines with compatible headphones. Another unusual detail today: the FM radio with RDS included in some variants.
Among the sensors we find accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, barometer, light sensor, proximity or with a color spectrum sensor which helps optimize the camera's color balance. In localization, the terminal adds A-GPS, GLONASS and Beidou for more reliable positioning.
Dimensions, materials and colors
The LG G5 has approximate dimensions of 149,4 x 73,9 x 7,7 mm or with a weight close to 159 grams, very balanced for its 5,3-inch diagonal. The body in aluminium alloy and the subtly curved protective glass round out a pleasant package in hand. It was available in several colors (such as silver, gold, titanium or rose), with a discreet and elegant design that prioritizes continuity and ergonomics.
LG G5 SE: the lowest-power variant
Along with the standard G5, the LG G5 SE in certain countries. This version maintained 5,3-inch QHD screen, design and cameras, but changed the processor to a Snapdragon 652 and reduced memory to 3 GB of RAM. He kept the 32 GB storage with microSD and the same battery 2.800 mAh removable. Its objective was to offer a more affordable price and potentially better autonomy in certain scenarios thanks to a less demanding chip, without sacrificing the modular experience of the Magic Slot or the key modules.
LG G5: Launch and price
The launch of the LG G5 came with a official price around 699 euros in the European market, with pre-orders in which the brand included an extra battery and the LG Cam Plus module in some promotions. As is usual in the high-end range, the price varied according to channel and country, and modules and accessories LG Friends were sold separately. In third-party stores, and with the natural product cycle, the terminal could be found slightly lower prices over time.
The LG G5 opted for a combination that made it unique: high-quality QHD panel, a well-finished metal body, a lot of powera whirlpool bath, double camera especially useful for its wide angle and, above all, a modular system Despite its limited adoption, it paved a different path in the high-end range. Its starting price and accessory ecosystem positioned the G5 as a model designed for those who wanted to take customization and audio to the next level without sacrificing a classic top-of-the-range model.
