The LG L20 and L30 represent LG's entry-level smartphone offerings. Both aim to provide essential functionality at an affordable price point, but are they truly identical? This review dives deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Surprisingly, the LG L20 and L30 are incredibly similar. Given their identical chipsets and CPUs, performance will be nearly indistinguishable. The deciding factor likely comes down to availability, price, and potentially minor differences in software or included accessories. It's a draw unless one offers a significantly better deal.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 850 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2014, July. Released 2014, July | 2014, June. Released 2014, June |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 105.6 x 64.5 x 13 mm (4.16 x 2.54 x 0.51 in) | 105.6 x 64.5 x 13 mm (4.16 x 2.54 x 0.51 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~133 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~125 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.0 inches, 27.9 cm2 (~40.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.2 inches, 31.7 cm2 (~46.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6572M (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6572M (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400 | Mali-400 |
| OS | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) | Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 480p | 480p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | - | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1540 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1540 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, White |
| Price | About 50 EUR | About 60 EUR |
LG L20
- Affordable
- Basic smartphone functionality
- Compact size
- Slow performance
- Low-resolution display
- Limited camera quality
LG L30
- Affordable
- Basic smartphone functionality
- Compact size
- Slow performance
- Low-resolution display
- Limited camera quality
Display Comparison
Both the LG L20 and L30 likely feature similar, small (around 3.8-4.0 inch) LCD displays with relatively low resolutions (likely 480x800 or similar). Expect adequate brightness for indoor use, but limited visibility in direct sunlight. Color accuracy and viewing angles will be basic.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both devices will be modest. Expect basic 2-5MP rear cameras capable of capturing acceptable photos in good lighting conditions. Front-facing cameras are likely to be very low resolution (VGA or similar). Video recording capabilities will be limited to low resolutions (e.g., 480p).
Performance
Performance will be the most significant similarity. The Mediatek MT6572M and dual-core Cortex-A7 CPU are entry-level components. Expect slow app loading times, occasional lag, and limited multitasking capabilities. Don't expect to run demanding games or applications smoothly.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is likely to be in the 1500-2000 mAh range for both devices. Expect a full day of light usage, but battery life will drain quickly with more intensive tasks. Standby time will be reasonable.
Buying Guide
The LG L20 is ideal for users needing a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app usage. The LG L30 caters to the same audience, but might be preferable if it's available at a slightly lower price or offers a slightly better warranty. Neither is suitable for demanding gamers or power users.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the LG L20 and L30 the same phone?
They are remarkably similar, sharing the same chipset and CPU. Differences are likely to be minor, such as software version or included accessories.
❓ Can I play games on the LG L20 or L30?
While you *can* install games, performance will be very limited. Only simple, lightweight games are likely to run acceptably.