LG G8X ThinQ Dual Screen: An In-Depth Review

The LG G8X ThinQ Dual Screen, released in 2019, presented a unique proposition in the smartphone market. Its defining feature, the second screen, promised enhanced productivity and multitasking capabilities. But did it deliver on this promise? This in-depth review will explore the phone’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall user experience to help you decide if it’s the right device for you.

Design and Build Quality

The LG G8X ThinQ boasts a sleek, modern design. Its glass back feels premium in hand, though it is prone to fingerprints. The bezels surrounding the main display are relatively thin for its time, contributing to a visually appealing front. The dual-screen setup, while innovative, adds considerable bulk to the device. Carrying it in a pocket can feel cumbersome, especially for those used to slimmer phones. The second screen, a 6.4-inch OLED panel, attaches magnetically to the main device. This connection is surprisingly sturdy, and the screens work seamlessly together.

Second Screen Functionality

The second screen is the star of the show, offering a multitude of uses. It’s ideal for multitasking, allowing you to run two apps simultaneously, such as browsing the web while messaging a friend. It’s also great for gaming, providing a more immersive experience with on-screen controls on the second display. The second screen’s functionality extends beyond simple app duplication. Dedicated apps take advantage of the dual screen for enhanced features. However, the magnetic connection, while secure, can feel slightly fiddly at times.

Performance and Battery Life

Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, the LG G8X ThinQ offered flagship-level performance in 2019. Everyday tasks, from browsing to gaming, were handled with ease. Even demanding games ran smoothly, with minimal lag or slowdown. The 4000mAh battery provided decent battery life, typically lasting a full day on a single charge with moderate usage. However, heavy gaming or prolonged screen use would significantly reduce battery life, necessitating charging before the end of the day. Fast charging capabilities help mitigate this, though it’s not the fastest on the market.

Software and User Experience

The LG G8X ThinQ shipped with LG’s custom Android skin, which has received mixed reviews over the years. While it offers several unique features, some users find it cluttered or less intuitive than stock Android. The dual-screen functionality is well-integrated into the software, with the ability to easily switch between single and dual-screen modes. However, some third-party apps may not be fully optimized for the dual-screen experience. Software updates have been a point of concern for LG devices, and this was no exception. The phone received a limited number of updates following its release.

Camera Performance

The LG G8X ThinQ features a dual-camera setup on the rear, comprising a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 13MP ultrawide lens. In good lighting conditions, the primary camera captured sharp, detailed images with accurate colors. The ultrawide lens offered a useful alternative for landscape shots or capturing wider scenes. However, low-light performance was a noticeable weakness. Images taken in low-light conditions often appeared grainy and lacked detail. Video recording capabilities were solid, though not exceptional compared to other flagship phones of the time. The front-facing camera provided adequate selfies, but again, low-light performance was a drawback.

Connectivity and Features

The LG G8X ThinQ offered a comprehensive range of connectivity features, including 5G support in some regions. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity were reliable and performed as expected. The phone also included an in-display fingerprint sensor, which worked adequately, though not as quickly or reliably as some other biometric authentication methods. Other features included NFC for contactless payments, a headphone jack (a rarity in modern flagships), and stereo speakers that delivered decent sound quality.

• Pros: Dual-screen functionality, good performance, decent battery life, headphone jack, 5G in some models.
• Cons: Bulky design, average camera performance in low light, software updates limited, somewhat sluggish fingerprint sensor.

Comparison with Competitors

At the time of its release, the LG G8X ThinQ competed with other flagship smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S10 and Google Pixel 4. While it matched these devices in terms of performance, its unique dual-screen feature set it apart. However, the bulkier design and some shortcomings in the camera and software departments made it a less compelling option for some consumers. The camera, particularly in low-light scenarios, paled in comparison to the top performers of the era. The Samsung Galaxy S10, for example, offered superior camera capabilities, while Google’s Pixel 4 excelled in computational photography. Ultimately, the choice depended on individual priorities; some users valued the dual-screen functionality above other aspects.

Overall Verdict

The LG G8X ThinQ Dual Screen was a bold experiment. Its dual-screen design was innovative and offered genuine advantages for multitasking and productivity. The phone performed well in most aspects, delivering strong processing power and decent battery life. However, its bulky design, less-than-stellar camera performance in low light, and limited software updates ultimately held it back from achieving true flagship status. It’s a niche product aimed at users who actively seek and value the dual-screen advantages. The unique selling point was undeniably compelling for a specific audience; For those primarily seeking a balanced package of excellent camera performance and impeccable software support, other options presented stronger cases.

• Superior Performance in specific tasks due to dual-screen capabilities.
• Slightly disappointing camera quality in low-light conditions.
• Bulkier than most competing smartphones.
• Innovative dual-screen design was a significant selling point.
• Overall a decent phone, but not without flaws.