LG Q6

amazon LG Q6 reviews

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of the LG Q6 is its design. LG made a deliberate effort to provide a premium look and feel, and in many ways, they succeeded. The Q6 borrows heavily from the design language of the LG G6, particularly with its FullVision display that features an 18:9 aspect ratio and minimal bezels.

Materials and Build

The phone’s frame is made of 7000 series aluminum, which is both lightweight and durable, giving the device a solid feel in hand. The back of the phone, however, is made of plastic rather than glass, which is a compromise LG had to make to keep costs down. While the plastic back does not feel as premium as glass, it is less prone to shattering and still maintains a glossy, attractive finish.

The Q6 is available in several color options, including Astro Black, Ice Platinum, and Mystic White, allowing users to choose a style that suits their personal taste. The plastic back is prone to fingerprints and smudges, which may require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance.

Ergonomics

At 149 grams and with dimensions of 142.5 x 69.3 x 8.1 mm, the LG Q6 is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold and use with one hand. The rounded edges and 2.5D curved glass on the front add to the phone’s ergonomic design, ensuring it feels smooth and comfortable in the hand.

The placement of buttons is well thought out, with the power button located on the right side and the volume rockers on the left. However, unlike many smartphones in its category, the LG Q6 does not feature a fingerprint scanner, which is a noticeable omission in terms of security and convenience.

Durability

The LG Q6 is MIL-STD-810G compliant, meaning it has passed military-grade durability tests, including drops, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. This gives users some peace of mind that the phone can withstand the rigors of daily use. However, it lacks any official water or dust resistance rating, so users should be cautious about exposing it to harsh environments.

Display

The display is one of the most prominent features of the LG Q6. It sports a 5.5-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 442 ppi. The display’s 18:9 aspect ratio was quite modern at the time of the Q6’s release, offering a taller screen that enhances the experience of browsing, watching videos, and playing games.

Screen Quality

The IPS LCD panel delivers vibrant colors and good contrast, with decent brightness levels that make the screen usable in most lighting conditions, including outdoors. However, it doesn’t match the deep blacks and vibrant colors of AMOLED displays found in higher-end models. The FullVision display’s minimal bezels create an immersive viewing experience, making the most of the screen real estate.

The screen also supports HDR10 content, which is a pleasant surprise for a mid-range device, allowing users to enjoy high-definition videos with enhanced color and contrast. However, the lack of an Always-On Display feature, which is common in LG’s higher-end models, might disappoint some users.

Performance

Under the hood, the LG Q6 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 processor, an octa-core chipset clocked at 1.4 GHz. It is paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, which is expandable via a microSD card slot up to 256GB. The choice of the Snapdragon 435 was likely a cost-saving measure, but it does have some implications for the phone’s performance.

Day-to-Day Performance

In everyday use, the LG Q6 handles basic tasks like web browsing, social media, and messaging without any major issues. The user interface is generally smooth, and apps open in a reasonable time frame. However, the Snapdragon 435 is not a powerhouse, and this becomes apparent when running more demanding applications or multitasking heavily.

Users may notice occasional slowdowns or stuttering when switching between apps, particularly if they have multiple apps running in the background. Gaming is possible on the Q6, but don’t expect it to handle graphically intensive games like PUBG Mobile or Asphalt 9 at high settings. Casual games and less demanding titles run smoothly, but there is a noticeable drop in performance when trying to push the hardware to its limits.

Benchmarks

In terms of benchmarks, the LG Q6 scores relatively modestly. In Geekbench 4, it scores around 650 in single-core and 2,500 in multi-core tests, which is in line with other devices powered by the Snapdragon 435. While these scores are sufficient for basic tasks, they lag behind higher mid-range and flagship models, particularly those powered by Snapdragon 600 series and above.

The Adreno 505 GPU handles graphics processing, but it’s not particularly strong, which limits the phone’s ability to render complex 3D graphics smoothly. This means that while the LG Q6 is capable of playing games, the experience is best when sticking to simpler or older titles that do not require significant graphical power.

Camera Performance

The LG Q6 comes equipped with a 13MP rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture and a 5MP front-facing camera with a wide-angle lens. On paper, these camera specifications are fairly standard for a mid-range device, but how do they perform in real-world usage?

Rear Camera

The 13MP rear camera is capable of taking decent photos in well-lit conditions. Images are generally sharp, with good color reproduction and contrast. The camera app is simple and easy to use, with features like HDR, panorama, and a range of filters that allow users to get creative with their shots.

However, the camera starts to struggle in low-light conditions. The f/2.2 aperture, while decent, does not let in as much light as wider aperture lenses found on more premium devices. This results in photos that can be grainy or blurry, especially when shooting in darker environments. The lack of optical image stabilization (OIS) also makes it more challenging to capture sharp images in low light.

The Q6’s camera can record video at up to 1080p resolution at 30fps. Video quality is adequate for casual use, but the lack of 4K recording is a limitation for those who want to capture higher-resolution videos. The absence of OIS is also felt during video recording, where shaky footage can be an issue if the phone is not kept steady.

Front Camera

The 5MP front-facing camera is one of the more interesting aspects of the LG Q6. It features a 100-degree wide-angle lens, which is great for capturing group selfies or including more background in your shots. The wide-angle mode can be switched on or off depending on the user’s preference.

In terms of image quality, the front camera performs adequately in good lighting, delivering sharp selfies with accurate skin tones. However, like the rear camera, it struggles in low light, producing images that are softer and noisier. There is a beauty mode that can be used to smooth out skin imperfections, but it can sometimes result in overly processed images that look unnatural.

Software Experience

The LG Q6 runs on Android 7.1.1 Nougat out of the box, with LG’s custom skin layered on top. LG’s user interface is known for being feature-rich, but it can also be a bit heavy-handed compared to stock Android.

User Interface

The user interface on the LG Q6 is visually appealing, with colorful icons and a range of customization options. Users can change themes, icon shapes, and even the layout of the home screen to suit their preferences. The settings menu is well-organized, making it relatively easy to navigate and find specific options.

However, the LG skin is not without its flaws. Some users may find it cluttered, with a lot of pre-installed apps and features that they may not use. There is also some duplication of apps, with both Google’s and LG’s versions of apps like messaging, calendar, and browser present on the device. This bloatware takes up valuable storage space and can’t be uninstalled, which might be a downside for users who prefer a cleaner experience.

Software Features

One of the standout software features on the LG Q6 is its facial recognition technology. This allows users to unlock their phone by simply looking at it, which is a nice alternative to the traditional PIN or pattern unlock methods. While it’s not as secure as a fingerprint sensor or more advanced facial recognition systems, it works reasonably well in good lighting conditions. However, it can struggle in low light or with certain angles, and it’s not as fast or reliable as the facial recognition found on higher-end devices.

Other software features include Smart Doctor, which helps users optimize their device’s performance by clearing cache and identifying apps that may be draining the battery. There’s also LG’s Capture+ feature, which allows users to take notes or draw on screenshots, which can be handy for quickly jotting down ideas or marking up images.

Battery Life

The LG Q6 is powered by a 3,000mAh non-removable battery, which is fairly standard for a smartphone of its size and category. Given its mid-range processor and a 5.5-inch Full HD display, the battery capacity is adequate to support a full day of average use.

Battery Performance

In practice, the LG Q6 delivers decent battery life. For typical usage, including web browsing, social media, and occasional video streaming, users can expect the phone to last through a day of use without needing a mid-day charge. On lighter usage days, it’s possible to get up to two days of battery life. This is largely due to the power-efficient nature of the Snapdragon 435 processor, combined with the reasonable screen-on time that the 1080p display offers.

When it comes to heavy use, such as gaming or continuous video streaming, the battery life will decrease more rapidly. The phone’s battery performance holds up well under moderate to heavy usage, but it’s not exceptional. Users who engage in more demanding tasks may find themselves needing to recharge the phone by evening.

Charging Speed

The LG Q6 supports standard charging speeds and does not come with fast charging capabilities, which means that recharging the phone can take a bit longer compared to newer devices with fast charging technology. Using the included charger, expect the phone to take around two hours to go from 0% to 100% battery. While this is not particularly fast, it is consistent with many mid-range phones from its era.

Connectivity and Features

The LG Q6 offers a range of connectivity options and features that are typical of mid-range devices, though there are some notable points to consider.

Connectivity

The phone supports 4G LTE, ensuring fast mobile internet speeds when connected to compatible networks. It also features standard Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS, which cover most of the connectivity needs for everyday use.

The absence of NFC (Near Field Communication) is one of the drawbacks of the LG Q6. While not a critical feature for everyone, NFC is useful for mobile payments and certain file-sharing applications. Its lack may be a consideration for users who rely on these functionalities.

The Q6 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is becoming less common on newer devices. This is a welcome inclusion for users who prefer wired audio connections and have not yet transitioned to wireless headphones.

MicroSD Card Slot

The LG Q6 comes with a microSD card slot, which supports expandable storage up to 256GB. This is a valuable feature for users who need additional space for apps, photos, videos, and other media. The ability to expand storage is a significant advantage over some competitors that offer only fixed internal storage.

Audio Quality

The LG Q6 includes a single bottom-firing speaker, which delivers audio that is clear but lacks depth and richness. It’s suitable for casual listening but may not meet the expectations of users who prioritize high-quality audio experiences. The speaker’s placement at the bottom of the phone means that it can be easily blocked when holding the device in landscape mode, such as during video watching or gaming.

The phone’s audio quality through the 3.5mm headphone jack is generally good, with decent sound output and a satisfactory listening experience. There are no advanced audio features like Dolby Atmos, but the standard audio performance is acceptable for most users.

Software Updates and Support

When it comes to software updates, the LG Q6’s history is somewhat mixed. The phone originally shipped with Android 7.1.1 Nougat, and while it did receive an update to Android 8.0 Oreo, it did not progress further to newer versions of Android. This is a common issue with many mid-range and budget devices, where manufacturers prioritize flagship models for software updates.

The lack of frequent software updates can affect security and access to the latest features. Users who prioritize having the latest Android versions and security patches might find this a drawback. However, for users who are less concerned about having the newest updates, the Q6’s software experience remains stable and functional.

Pricing and Value

When it was first released, the LG Q6 was positioned as an affordable mid-range smartphone with a premium design. As a result, it offered good value for its price point, especially with features like the FullVision display and MIL-STD-810G durability.

In the current market, with newer models and advancements in technology, the LG Q6 may not stand out as much in terms of raw performance or cutting-edge features. However, it remains a solid choice for users seeking a budget-friendly option with a stylish design and decent performance. Its affordability, coupled with a durable build and expandable storage, makes it a viable option for those who need a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

The LG Q6 offers a balanced package for users looking for a mid-range smartphone with a touch of premium design. Its FullVision display and solid build quality set it apart from many other devices in its price range. The battery life and expandable storage add to its appeal, making it a practical choice for users with moderate needs.

However, it is important to consider its limitations. The Snapdragon 435 processor, while adequate for basic tasks, is not powerful enough for demanding applications or intensive gaming. The camera performance, particularly in low light, is another area where the LG Q6 falls short compared to more recent competitors. The lack of NFC and the limited software updates are additional factors that might influence a buyer’s decision.

In conclusion, the LG Q6 is a well-rounded device for its price and offers several attractive features for its class. While it may not compete with higher-end models or the latest smartphones on the market, it provides a good balance of design, functionality, and affordability. For users who value a durable and stylish phone without needing top-of-the-line performance, the LG Q6 remains a commendable option.

where can you get a LG Q6 online

LG Q6-32 GB – Unlocked (AT&T/T-Mobile) – Platinum – Prime Exclusive: Buy it now

LG Q6 (M700DSN) 3GB / 32GB 5.5-inches Dual SIM Factory Unlocked – International Stock No Warranty (Astro Black): Buy it now

LG G6-32 GB – Unlocked (AT&T/T-Mobile/Verizon) – Platinum – Prime Exclusive: Buy it now