What's good
- No pre-installed bloatware
- IR blaster
- Price
- Battery life
- MicroSD support
What's bad
- Weak camera
- No LTE support
- Lower resolution display
- Limited internal storage
While the flagship and entry-level markets are heating up, finding a good mid-market phone can be a little difficult. LG hopes to remedy that with their Optimus L90. While the phone is big on features, it is relatively small on price. Does it meet LG’s goals and, more importantly, do you want to own one? Let’s see what the reviews have to say!
One of the first things noted by many reviews was the size of the device. With a 4.7-inch 960-by-540-pixel screen, the phone is definitely larger than many of the other prepaid budget-conscious models out there. While reviews all noted that the screen was very bright and colors were vibrant, the resolution was met with so-so reviews. TechRadar described the screen, stating, “quality isn't overly fantastic.”
The phone is housed in a plastic chassis. Reviews noted that while it was obviously a metal-free design, that the build quality was sturdy overall. Many questioned the self-healing coating that LG touted on the rear of device as well. CNet put it to the test with a set of car keys and found that it “worked well” but also noted that if your hands were sweaty that the coating could get quite slippery.
Powering the phone, you’ll find a 1.2GHz quad-core processor with 1GB RAM. This is certainly enough for most apps, a little multitasking and even some gaming. TechRadar put it through its paces and declared “[we] didn't really experience any lag, although it's not exactly a high-octane performer.”
The device includes 8GB of internal storage. Unfortunately, most reviews found only 4GB was available to install apps or store files. If you plan on keeping your music collection on your device or playing games, you’ll want to pick up a microSD card to expand the storage.
The Optimus L90’s 5MP rear-facing camera received lackluster reviews as well. While it has a flash and the software received positive marks, CNet found that “the camera struggles with indoor settings” and most reviews noted graininess and muted colors in all but the best lighting conditions.
Overall, due to competitive pricing, the reviews on the phone were positive. CNet declared that it “offers a good amount of value” and called it a “top choice given its price and its specs.” TechRadar stated, “The LG L90 is a well equipped smartphone, if a little unspectacular.”
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Jamshed Avari, Gadgets 360LG is definitely making an effort, but it hasn't quite paid off thanks to some questionable decisions about pricing and feature inclusion.
- Eugene Kim, PC MagazineThe LG Optimus L90 is an exceptionally affordable, entry-level smartphone that matches and even exceeds some pricier options.
- Avi Sharma, UnleashThePhonesThe LG L90 may not be the best with its display, but the overall package is certainly worth the price. Even though getting later android updates or getting developer support might be difficult, getting the latest version of android out of the box is quite a boost. LG’s innovative UI control ra...
- Srivatsan, Fone ArenaAt its market price, the LG L90 Dual is definitely costly, compared to other smartphones in this range. Even though it scores well in battery life and the performance, the display is average compared to smartphones like Moto G and it lacks ambient light sensor. If you are looking for a compact smart...
- Eric M. Zeman, Phone ScoopThe LG L90 offers what has become the quintessential LG experience in a device that is smaller and less expensive than its G Series flagships. The L90's hardware falls short of LG's best efforts, but the user interface and overall features a nearly neck-and-neck. The device is compact and well made,...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the LG Optimus L90 user manual here.
LG backs up the Optimus L90 with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Optimus L90 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.
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Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- LG Optimus L90 Manual (PDF)
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