In a market saturated with glass slabs, LG offered a nostalgic return to form with the Folder 2 and Wine Smart. These aren't attempts to compete with flagships; they're designed for a specific user base prioritizing simplicity and tactile feedback. This comparison dissects the differences, focusing on how the Wine Smart's quad-core processor impacts usability compared to the Folder 2's unknown specifications, and who each phone best serves.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a simple, reliable flip phone, the LG Wine Smart likely offers a more responsive experience thanks to its quad-core 1.1 GHz processor. While the Folder 2 may excel in build quality or specific features (details unknown), the Wine Smart provides a tangible performance advantage for basic tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| EDGE | - | Yes |
| GPRS | - | Yes |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, April 14. Released 2020, April 17 | 2015, August. Released 2015, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 107.9 x 55 x 18 mm (4.25 x 2.17 x 0.71 in) | 117.7 x 58.7 x 16.6 mm (4.63 x 2.31 x 0.65 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 127 g (4.48 oz) | 143 g (5.04 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) | 320 x 480 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~180 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~40.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.2 inches, 30.5 cm2 (~44.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| | External 0.9 inches monochrome display | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Quad-core 1.1 GHz |
| OS | - | Android 5.1.1 (Lollipop) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Practically unlimited | - |
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 4GB 1GB RAM |
| Phonebook | Practically unlimited entries and fields, Photocal | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 3.15 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | VGA |
| | Uses main camera | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | - | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 4.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | Downloadable | - |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM | - |
| Sensors | - | Yes |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1470 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1700 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | White, Platinum Gray | Navy, Burgundy |
| Models | - | D486, F480 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 150 EUR |
LG Folder 2
- Potentially more durable build quality (speculation)
- May offer unique features not found on the Wine Smart (speculation)
- Classic flip phone aesthetic
- Unknown processor performance – potentially slower than Wine Smart
- Lack of published specifications hinders accurate assessment
- May lack the responsiveness of the Wine Smart
LG Wine Smart
- Quad-core 1.1 GHz processor provides a smoother user experience
- 8MP camera offers reasonable image quality for casual use
- 1700 mAh battery provides all-day battery life
- Smaller display size compared to some modern smartphones
- Limited app compatibility
- Basic camera features
Display Comparison
Given the target market, both the LG Folder 2 and Wine Smart likely feature displays prioritizing readability over resolution. We anticipate both utilize TFT LCD panels, given cost constraints. The Folder 2's display size is unknown, but the Wine Smart's 3.5-inch display is adequate for basic viewing. Neither phone is expected to compete with modern smartphones in terms of brightness or color accuracy; the focus is on clear visibility in various lighting conditions. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both devices, a characteristic of the flip phone form factor.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is unlikely to be a key selling point for either device. Both phones likely feature basic cameras suitable for casual snapshots. The LG Wine Smart includes an 8MP main camera, which, while not exceptional, is sufficient for capturing memories in good lighting. The Folder 2's camera specifications are unknown. Given the target demographic, image quality is secondary to ease of use. Expect limited features and potentially low-resolution images from both devices. The presence of a camera is more about convenience than photographic excellence.
Performance
The LG Wine Smart's quad-core 1.1 GHz CPU is the defining performance differentiator. While not a powerhouse, this processor provides a noticeable improvement over single-core or older dual-core chips often found in basic phones. This translates to smoother app switching and faster loading times for essential applications like messaging and contacts. The LG Folder 2, lacking published CPU information, is difficult to assess. It's reasonable to assume a similar or lower-tier processor, potentially resulting in a less fluid user experience. The Wine Smart's processor benefits users who occasionally use apps like WhatsApp or Facebook.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for users prioritizing simplicity. The LG Wine Smart's 1700 mAh battery, coupled with its less demanding processor, should provide all-day battery life with moderate use. The LG Folder 2's battery capacity is unknown, but a similar capacity is likely. Charging speeds are expected to be slow on both devices, utilizing micro-USB connectivity. The Wine Smart's processor efficiency contributes to longer standby times, benefiting users who primarily use the phone for calls and texts.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG Folder 2 if you prioritize a potentially more robust build quality and are willing to accept a potentially slower user experience, hoping for features beyond basic smartphone functionality. Buy the LG Wine Smart if you value a responsive interface for calls, texts, and simple apps, and appreciate the benefit of a known processor for everyday tasks. The Wine Smart is ideal for users who want a functional, no-frills smartphone experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the LG Wine Smart struggle with modern apps like WhatsApp or Facebook?
While the Wine Smart can run these apps, performance will be basic. Expect slower loading times and occasional lag. It's best suited for light use of these applications – checking messages and occasional browsing. Heavy users will find the experience frustrating.
❓ Is the LG Folder 2 a better choice if I need a more durable phone?
Potentially. LG has a history of building robust phones, and the Folder 2's flip phone design inherently offers some protection to the screen. However, without specific drop test data or build material information, it's impossible to definitively say it's more durable than the Wine Smart.
❓ Does the LG Wine Smart support 4G LTE for faster data speeds?
Yes, the LG Wine Smart supports 4G LTE, allowing for faster internet browsing and app usage compared to older 3G networks. This is a significant benefit for users who want to stay connected on the go.
❓ Can I easily transfer my contacts and messages to the LG Wine Smart from a smartphone?
Transferring data can be a bit cumbersome. The Wine Smart supports importing contacts via a SIM card or through a basic contact transfer app. Message transfer is more difficult and may require manual entry or using a third-party backup and restore solution.
