LG G5 smartphone
LG

LG G5

April 2016 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The LG G5 was a flagship Android smartphone known for its innovative modular design, allowing users to swap out the bottom 'chin' for accessories like a camera grip or Hi-Fi audio module. It also featured a dual-camera setup with a wide-angle lens and a removable battery, a rarity for metal-bodied phones at the time.
Display5.3-inch QHD IPS LCD with Always-On feature
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 820
Main CameraDual 16MP (standard) + 8MP (ultrawide)
Battery2800 mAh removable, with Quick Charge 3.0
Starting from $3,529

💰 LG G5 Price

The LG G5 lowest price is $3,529, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeIPS LCD
Size5.3 inches
Resolution1440 x 2560 pixels (QHD), 554 ppi density
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 4
FeaturesAlways-on display

Platform

OSAndroid 6.0.1 Marshmallow, upgradable to Android 8.0 Oreo
ChipsetQualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820
CPUQuad-core (2x2.15 GHz Kryo & 2x1.6 GHz Kryo)
GPUAdreno 530

Memory

Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot) up to 2TB
Internal32GB 4GB RAM

Main Camera

Dual16 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (standard), OIS, laser AF; 8 MP, f/2.4, 9mm (ultrawide), no AF
FeaturesLED flash, HDR, panorama, Color Spectrum Sensor
Video4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps, HDR, stereo sound rec.

Selfie Camera

Single8 MP, f/2.0, 1/4", 1.12µm
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 2800 mAh
Charging18W wired, QC3

Body

Dimensions149.4 x 73.9 x 7.7 mm (5.88 x 2.91 x 0.30 in)
Weight159 g (5.61 oz)
BuildAluminum body
SIMSingle SIM (Nano-SIM) or Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)
FeaturesModular design with removable bottom 'chin'

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, hotspot
Bluetooth4.2, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, BDS
NFCYes
RadioFM radio
USBUSB Type-C 2.0 (supports 3.0 via adapter), USB On-The-Go

Launch

AnnouncedFebruary 2016
StatusReleased April 2016

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Unique modularity for expandable functionality
  • Excellent dual-camera system with a useful wide-angle lens
  • User-replaceable battery, a rare feature in modern flagships
  • Premium metal build quality
  • Sharp and vibrant QHD display with Always-On feature

Cons

  • Modular system had limited accessory adoption
  • Battery life was considered average for its time
  • No water or dust resistance
  • Some markets received a lower-spec variant (G5 SE)
  • Brightness of the display could be low in certain conditions
★ Our Verdict

The LG G5 earns a 7/10 for its bold innovation in modularity and excellent camera system, though its average battery life and limited success of its modular ecosystem prevented it from achieving a higher score.

The LG G5, while an older model, can still be an interesting choice for budget-conscious users or those who appreciate its unique modularity and removable battery. As a used or refurbished device, it offers a solid QHD display and a versatile dual-camera setup that includes a wide-angle lens, which was ahead of its time. However, be aware that software updates are no longer provided, and finding 'Friends' modules might be challenging. Its 2800 mAh battery might show its age, so consider a replacement battery if purchasing. It's best suited for casual use, photography enthusiasts on a budget, or as a secondary device. Ensure the specific unit you're considering is the Snapdragon 820 version, not the lower-spec G5 SE.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • LG G5 smartphone
  • USB-C cable
  • Wall charger (Quick Charge 3.0 compatible)
  • SIM ejector tool
  • Quick Start Guide

Typically includes a standard one-year manufacturer's warranty, though this may vary by region and retailer.

❓ Questions & Answers

What made the LG G5 unique?

The LG G5 was unique for its 'Magic Slot' modular design, which allowed users to slide out the bottom of the phone and attach various 'Friends' accessories, such as a camera grip or a Hi-Fi audio module.

Does the LG G5 have a removable battery?

Yes, one of the standout features of the LG G5 was its removable 2800 mAh battery, which was accessible via its modular 'chin' design.

What kind of camera does the LG G5 have?

The LG G5 featured an innovative dual-camera setup on the rear: a 16 MP standard lens and an 8 MP wide-angle lens, allowing for versatile photography options. It also had an 8 MP front-facing camera.

What operating system does the LG G5 run?

The LG G5 launched with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow and was upgradable to Android 8.0 Oreo.

Is the LG G5 still a good phone in 2026?

While the LG G5 was a flagship in 2016, its hardware is now dated compared to modern smartphones. It can still function for basic tasks, but it no longer receives software updates and its battery life might be limited. It's more suitable for collectors or as a secondary device.

What is the difference between LG G5 and LG G5 SE?

The LG G5 SE was a lower-specification variant of the LG G5, primarily sold in certain markets. The main difference was its processor, with the G5 SE using a Snapdragon 652 chipset and 3GB of RAM, compared to the standard G5's Snapdragon 820 and 4GB of RAM.