The latest take on a pure vanilla Android smartphone is called the LG Nexus 4. Its design is based off another LG handset called the Optimus G and it is one of many flagship models made for Google. How does it perform when compared with the most recent models in Google’s Nexus smartphone range? And more importantly, is it able to outperform the competition?
The Nexus 4 uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor with a clock speed of 1.5GHz. This particular chip has been found to pretty much leave competing chips in other manufacturer’s devices in the dust. It’s quite powerful, and it goes along perfectly with the rest of the Nexus 4’s specs. These include a 4.7-inch 1024x768 touchscreen display, 2GB of RAM, up to 16GB of internal storage, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi, GPS, and NFC.
The default operating system is 4.2 Jelly Bean, the very latest version of Android. What kind of new stuff does it bring to the table? Well, for one thing, it improves the user experience by making the user interface even faster—as part of Google’s ongoing project Butter—and adds several new features like user accounts and wireless display support. These can't really be described as revolutionary but the end-result does improve its overall usefulness.
The Nexus 4 doesn’t represent a huge step up from the model that it’s supposed to replace. Though there are noticeable improvements, such as better camera performance and more useful software features, it just can’t be described as more than a minor upgrade to its predecessor. Its uniquely LG styling won’t appeal to everyone, but at only 9mm thick and less than 140 grams, it will definitely get some extra attention. If you want a smartphone that will be on the forefront of Android for at least the next several months, then this is probably the Android smartphone that you're looking for.
Need to Know: LG Nexus 4
1. Runs the latest flavor of Android, version 4.2 Jelly Bean. (The Good)
2. Features wireless display support via Miracast and has wireless charging tech. (The Good)
3. Short battery life. (The Bad)
4. Camera performance could be improved. (The Bad)
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Seth Barton, Expert ReviewsThere's little wrong with LG's take on the Nexus brand, in fact it's a great smartphone and one we'd be happy to own. Android 4.2 is a big plus point, there are some neat new features, and you don't have to fight with a manufacturer's take on Android. Despite this we still narrowly prefer the Samsun...
- Kunal Gangar, Tech TickerSo is the Nexus 4 worth it at the end of the day when there are Nexus experience device announced with the likes of Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One? The Nexus 4 comes with 16GB of internal memory with 2GB RAM and is priced at $435, which is in the price range of Samsung’s Galaxy S III, however,...
- Ced Yuen, What Hi-FiTherefore, and despite that winning interface and smooth operation, it’s time for the Nexus 4 to step down as the best Android smartphone. The HTC and Sony flagships impress more with their stunning picture performance and lovely design touches. For Android purists, though, the Nexus 4 remains...
- Nilabh Jha, The Mobile IndianThe phone offers very good performance, display and comes with a great price and promise of always having the latest Android version, which means that this phone is simply one of the best choice in the market today, even if you don't have a budget constraint, you won't mind buying this handset as yo...
- Daniel Howley, TechCrunchnull
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
LG Nexus 4 prices will vary depending on retailer, age, special offers and whether or not it's purchased with a service plan. If purchased with a 2 year service contract for example, you would likely pay much less for the phone itself up front. LG's suggested retail price is $299.00. You can compare Nexus 4 prices from around the web here on The Informr.
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the LG Nexus 4 user manual here.
LG backs up the Nexus 4 with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Nexus 4 has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact LG support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find LG's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
Ask the Community
Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- LG Nexus 4 Manual (PDF)
Maybe one of your friends will find this review helpful? Please help us spread the word.