After a month using the LG V50 ThinQ I have to admit that what I already liked during his presentation now he does even more. The LG terminal is for me one of those great covers. Perhaps because of the crazy pace of presentations that the smartphone sector has. But still, if you're interested, I encourage you to read the analysis. Perhaps in the end you share with me the opinion that, sometimes you don't have to be the best at everything to become a great product.
LG V50 ThinQ, everything that is required of a high-end
The LG V50 ThinQ is right now one of the high-end of the Korean manufacturer along with the G8. A device that has enough arguments to position itself among the best, and no, I'm not talking about its support for 5G networks. But if you agree, let's go in parts.
| LG V50 ThinQ | Features |
|---|---|
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 + Snapdragon X50 modem to support 5G networks |
| Conference proceedings | 6GB of RAM |
| Storage | 128GB Storage expandable via microSD up to 2TB |
| Screen | 6,4” OLED and QHD resolution |
| Frontal camera | 8MP f1.9 + 5MP f2.2 |
| Rear camera | 16MP f1.9 + 12MP 1f.5 + 12MP f2.4 |
| Battery | 4.000 mAh |
| Connectivity | Wifi ac. BT5.0. NFC, GPS, 5G connectivity and USB C |
| Dimensions and weight | 159,2 x 76,1 x 183mm and 183gr |
| Price | Since 899 € |
The technical sheet of the LG V50 ThinQ tells us offers everything that is asked of a terminal that points to the best of the high-end. It incorporates a high-performance Qualcomm processor, RAM memory and enough storage for a good experience, a quality screen and a versatile photographic set that we will talk about calmly later. In addition, as in the rest of the past generations, LG continues to bet here on the use of a DAC HiFi that provides a differential listening experience.
The charm of a simple design
With no intention of breaking the mold in terms of design, the LG V50 ThinQ it seemed to me a very attractive device from day one. He doesn't take risks, but he doesn't need it either and physically he draws attention for those well-executed lines despite being everyday.
Due to the finishes as well as the quality of the construction materials, the LG phone is a demonstration of a more than current design. Still, best of all is how it falls into the hand. By overall dimensions, it is very comfortable to hold. And that its screen has a considerable diagonal, but despite this it is easy to access each point of the interface.
As a detail, beyond the button dedicated to the Google Assistant, I have to highlight the location of the fingerprint reader on the back. Now it is true that most manufacturers play with their on-screen integration, but with facial recognition that works well and quickly, having it on the back gives me two important things:
- More comfortable and natural reader position for when I take the phone out of my pocket.
- Option to take advantage of the gestures on the reader to get notifications and quick access
In summary, the design is always something very particular, but I consider that LG's commitment is still very valid despite having been announced during the MWC at the beginning of the year.
A complete multimedia experience
LG is a benchmark in OLED TVs. On screens for smartphones, it has suffered the occasional small setback, but this time you can rest easy because the screen of the LG V50 ThinQ is remarkable.
With a 6,4-inch OLED panel, today it is very difficult to say which screen looks better or worse. It would be necessary to enter laboratory measurements, and even so for some the "best screen" would not be the one indicated by the tests.
In the case of the V50, I have to say that I liked it and I consider that it is at the level that is required of the manufacturer. A good color representation, viewing angles, contrast, depth of blacks, etc. It doesn't matter what type of content you play, the quality is high and the visual experience is very enjoyable. And if that adds an almost outstanding sound... even better.
El Built-in HiFi DAC and the settings for DTS audio: X 3D Surround mean that when you connect headphones, the listening experience is one of the great values and strong points of the terminal. If you like to enjoy maximum sound quality, you may not find a better option on the market than this LG V50.
Therefore, if enjoying good sound and a good image is important to you, the LG V50 ThinQ meets the high marks.
Ok, one thing is missing to comment related to the image: its double screen or Dual Screen. When LG presented the terminal, the accessory was welcomed as LG's response to the Galaxy Fold and Mate X. This generated comments that seemed to indicate that LG wanted and could not offer the same thing, a real folding phone.
Well, over time it has been seen that this was not the case and that for LG this was an option to offer performance and productivity to those looking for two screens. However, as an accessory, it is not something for everyone.
It may be that for you there are very clear use cases that compensate you for acquiring it, but for most it will cost you. Therefore, value the option like that, one more option to get something extra if you think so. But don't let the idea that doesn't fit your use cases detract from a product that is very complete.
By the way, in the new version of Dual Screen presented at IFA 2019 something that happens here seems to have been solved: differences between the magnet of the terminal screen and the one offered by the Dual Screen.
High-end power and control
The hardware of the LG V50 ThinQ does not raise any doubts: high-end processor, enough RAM memory -which shows that the excesses of other manufacturers are not 100% justified- and plenty of storage unless you like to save large video collections.
No matter what application you run, you will get good performance. Therefore, whether it is for games, image editors, video or any other activity that you can carry out with the phone, even abusing multitasking, it will offer a pleasant experience.
Regarding the software, LG's customization layer can be defined as too complete. That is, it has many options to adapt it to your needs, control various parameters, settings, etc. This is great if you like messing with the system. If not, a cleaner layer would be something many other users would appreciate. Luckily it seems that the manufacturer has noticed and in this IFA has shown what will be its interface renewal. I wish it didn't take long to get to this V50.
However, this is Android and that is always synonymous with advantages to achieve the interface that best suits you. Either natively with the manufacturer's layer or through a third-party Launcher.
5 cameras, multiple possibilities
LG was one of the first manufacturers to bet, with its LG G5, on a combination of cameras where the wide angle was somewhat differential and not so much on a zoom. At that time everyone said they were wrong, now it seems that the industry is agreeing with them. And yes, the zoom is also great but wide angle can be a lot of fun.
Here with 5 cameras, creative options and versatility allow for high-quality results. Sometimes the processing may not be perfect or the camera may not finish offering all the theoretical potential it can give, but if you like photography with this LG V50 ThingQ it is quite enjoyable.
- Portrait mode works well with both cameras and the ability to adjust the blur level helps you fine-tune what the final result will be, whether you want it to be more natural or take a chance and get creative.
- Exposure control and colors are also rendered very well. In some specific situations you may have to repeat the photo, but it will be the fewest times.
- Without a zoom as powerful as that of other proposals, the triple camera configuration of the LG V50 gives a lot of play and options so that you can always frame what you want.
- Night photography has improved, and both the automatic mode and the manual options can produce attractive results when the light is poor.
With a bit of post editing the images can be made even better. So it's all a matter of the time you want to dedicate to get the most out of these five cameras of the LG V50 ThinQ.
It also stands out in video subjects. next to one stabilization that works well, an advanced mode to control the settings, the option to zoom in on objects and some other options mean that if you like to record video you will enjoy what the LG V50 ThinQ offers. It has convinced me, in particular by allowing record at 4K and HDR resolution.
In summary, both for video and for photos, the cameras are capable of giving a lot of play. You have to know its limitations, but you can get great performance out of it. And best of all, they show a good evolution after that LG G3 that conquered so many and for some it is still the best device made by LG.
Extra bonus: 5G
Le LG V50 ThinQ has been one of the first terminals to offer support for 5G networks. During these days of testing I have been able to use a Vodafone SIM with the option to access 5G services in Spain.
I would like to say that everything has been wonderful, that the experience changes radically and that it is worth investing in 5G equipment now, but I cannot. The coverage of these networks is still very limited to a few capitals.
Therefore, including 5G connectivity is great as an investment for the future. But nothing else, if it did not have compatibility for 5G networks it would still be the same good terminal.
LG V50 ThinQ, conclusions: what do you ask of a high-end
After more than four weeks using the terminal, I think I have a very well formed opinion. I liked the LG V50 ThinQ a lot. The design is one of the aspects that most attracts my attention due to its simplicity and elegance, without protruding cameras or other distracting elements. It is also comfortable to hold and that makes you like it even more when using it.
In matters of autonomy, with 4.000 mAh It won't stand out, but it won't be left behind either and it performs well during a day of intense use. And if you're running a bit more in a hurry, you can take advantage of its quick and well-solved charging system.
Therefore, with good sound, screen, hardware, etc., what do you really ask of a high-end to be your best option? I have it clear, I don't need him to be the best at everything but yes a satisfactory overall experience. The LG V50 ThinQ does it and that's why it convinces me.
Comfortable to wear and very versatile during the day to day, if there is something that can make you doubt it is the price. But seeing how all the devices go down today, I don't think it's a big problem. Therefore, its biggest enemy is the market itself and the crazy pace of presentations that it leads. Although this really is the problem of any Android product. So, if you bet on him, I would dare to say that you will not regret it.