LG V20 smartphone

Photo: LG전자 via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

LG

LG V20

October 21, 2016 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The LG V20 is an Android phablet smartphone known for being the first phone with Android Nougat. It features a unique secondary display, a high-fidelity Quad DAC for superior audio, and a user-replaceable battery, a rare feature for its time.
Display5.7-inch QHD IPS LCD with secondary display
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 820
Main CameraDual 16MP (standard) + 8MP (ultrawide)
Battery3200 mAh removable
Starting from $79

💰 LG V20 Price

The LG V20 lowest price is $79, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeIPS LCD
Size5.7 inches, 90.3 cm2 (~72.4% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution1440 x 2560 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~513 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 4
Secondary display160 x 1040 pixels, 2.1 inches

Platform

OSAndroid 7.0 (Nougat), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie)
ChipsetQualcomm MSM8996 Snapdragon 820 (14 nm)
CPUQuad-core (2x2.15 GHz Kryo & 2x1.6 GHz Kryo)
GPUAdreno 530

Memory

Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM (UFS 2.1)

Main Camera

Modules16 MP, f/1.8, 29mm (standard), 1/2.6", 3-axis OIS; 8 MP, f/2.4, 12mm (ultrawide), 1/3.2", no AF
FeaturesLaser AF, color spectrum sensor, Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR
Video4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, 720p@120fps, 24-bit/192kHz stereo sound rec.

Selfie Camera

Modules5 MP, f/1.9
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion
Capacity3200 mAh
ChargingQuick Charge 3.0

Body

Dimensions159.7 x 78.1 x 7.6 mm (6.29 x 3.07 x 0.30 in)
Weight174 g (6.14 oz)
BuildGlass front (Gorilla Glass 4), aluminum back, aluminum frame (6000 series)
SIMNano-SIM (single or dual-SIM models)
DurabilityMIL-STD-810G compliant* (*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA
Bluetooth4.2, A2DP, LE, aptX HD
GPSYes, with A-GPS, GLONASS
NFCYes
USBUSB Type-C 2.0 (reversible connector)
InfraredYes (IR blaster)

Launch

Announced2016, September 07
StatusDiscontinued

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent audio quality with Quad DAC and 3.5mm jack
  • User-replaceable battery
  • Secondary display for convenience
  • Durable, MIL-STD-810G compliant build
  • Good camera with wide-angle lens and manual controls
  • IR blaster

Cons

  • No water resistance
  • No wireless charging
  • Design might feel dated compared to newer phones
  • Software updates eventually ceased (upgradable to Android 9.0 Pie)
  • Battery life could be average for a flagship
★ Our Verdict

The LG V20 was a highly innovative phone for its time, offering unique features like a secondary display, Quad DAC, and a removable battery, but it lacked modern flagship features like water resistance and wireless charging.

The LG V20 is a compelling choice for audiophiles and users who value a removable battery and expandable storage, features increasingly rare in modern smartphones. While its processor and camera performance are dated by today's standards, it still offers a solid multimedia experience, especially for music lovers. Consider it if you're looking for a budget-friendly device with a headphone jack, IR blaster, and the flexibility of a swappable battery, but be aware of its older software and lack of water resistance. It's best suited for those who prioritize specific legacy features over cutting-edge performance or design.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • LG V20 smartphone
  • Removable battery
  • USB Type-C cable
  • Quick Charge 3.0 compatible travel adapter/charger
  • B&O Play in-ear headphones (region dependent)
  • Quick start guide/Documentation

The LG V20 typically came with a standard one-year manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the LG V20 known for?

The LG V20 is primarily known for being the first smartphone to launch with Android 7.0 Nougat, its unique secondary display, a high-fidelity Quad DAC for superior audio, and a user-replaceable battery.

Does the LG V20 have a removable battery?

Yes, the LG V20 features a 3200 mAh user-replaceable battery, a feature that became increasingly rare in flagship smartphones around its release.

What kind of display does the LG V20 have?

The LG V20 has a 5.7-inch Quad HD (2560 x 1440 pixels) IPS LCD main display, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4. Additionally, it features a 2.1-inch secondary display (160 x 1040 pixels) located above the main screen.

Is the LG V20 good for audio enthusiasts?

Absolutely. The LG V20 is highly regarded by audio enthusiasts due to its ESS Sabre ES9218 32-bit Quad DAC, 3.5mm headphone jack, and B&O Play certification, providing an exceptional wired audio experience.

What operating system did the LG V20 launch with?

The LG V20 was notable for being the first smartphone to launch with Android 7.0 Nougat out of the box, and it is upgradable to Android 9.0 Pie.

Does the LG V20 have an IR blaster?

Yes, the LG V20 includes an IR blaster, allowing it to function as a universal remote control for compatible home electronics.