The LG W31 and W41 represent LG’s attempts to capture the ultra-budget smartphone market. While visually similar, the core difference lies under the hood: the W41 boasts a newer Mediatek Helio G35 chipset compared to the W31’s Helio P22. This comparison dives deep into the implications of this chipset upgrade, analyzing real-world performance and value for prospective buyers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the LG W41 is the superior choice. The Helio G35 chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the W31’s Helio P22, particularly in multitasking and light gaming. While both phones target the budget segment, the W41’s improved processing power justifies the potential price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, November 06. Released 2020, December 23 | 2021, February 22. Released 2021, March 03 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 166.2 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.54 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 166.5 x 77.3 x 9.3 mm (6.56 x 3.04 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 173.6 g (6.14 oz) | 201 g (7.09 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 900 x 1600 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~280 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~80.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.55 inches, 118.3 cm2 (~91.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765G Helio G35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
5 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | - | 8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, (wide) | 8 MP, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue | Magic Blue, Laser Blue |
| Models | LMK315IM, LM-K315, LM-K315IM | LMK610IM, LM-K610IM |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 160 EUR |
LG W31
- Potentially lower price point.
- Sufficient for basic smartphone tasks.
- Likely similar battery life to W41.
- Noticeably slower performance than W41.
- Less responsive user interface.
- Struggles with multitasking.
LG W41
- Improved CPU and GPU performance.
- Smoother multitasking experience.
- Better for light gaming.
- Potentially better image processing.
- May be slightly more expensive.
- Battery life may be marginally shorter (though likely negligible).
- Still limited by budget components.
Display Comparison
Both the LG W31 and W41 utilize 12nm chipsets, suggesting similar power consumption profiles impacting display performance. While specific display specs (brightness, panel type) are not provided, the chipset difference won't directly affect display quality. Expect standard LCD panels typical of this price range, with color accuracy and viewing angles likely being average. Bezels are likely comparable, focusing on maximizing screen real estate within the budget constraints.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, a direct comparison is limited. Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the quality will heavily depend on the main sensor and image processing algorithms. Given the price point, expect primary sensors in the 13-20MP range. The Helio G35 in the W41 *may* offer slightly better image signal processing (ISP) capabilities, potentially leading to improved image quality in good lighting conditions. However, low-light performance will likely be similar on both devices. Any 2MP macro or depth sensors present on either phone should be considered marketing features rather than significant contributors to image quality.
Performance
The core distinction between these devices is the chipset. The LG W41’s Mediatek Helio G35 features an octa-core configuration with a split design: four cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and four at 1.8 GHz. This contrasts with the LG W31’s Helio P22, which utilizes eight Cortex-A53 cores all clocked at 2.0 GHz. The G35’s higher clock speeds and architectural refinement (though still Cortex-A53) translate to a roughly 15-20% performance increase in CPU-intensive tasks. This is particularly noticeable in app loading times and smoother multitasking. The G35 also includes a slightly improved GPU, offering a modest boost in gaming performance, allowing for playable frame rates in less demanding titles. Thermal management is likely similar on both, relying on passive cooling due to the budget nature of the devices.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both phones likely house batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range, typical for this segment. The Helio G35 in the W41, despite being more powerful, is still a 12nm chip, meaning the power efficiency difference compared to the W31’s Helio P22 is not drastic. Expect all-day battery life with moderate usage on both devices. Charging wattage is also unknown, but likely falls in the 10-15W range, resulting in a 2.5-3 hour charge time from 0-100%.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG W31 if you prioritize absolute affordability and your smartphone usage is limited to basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media browsing. Buy the LG W41 if you want a smoother experience with multitasking, occasional gaming, and a more responsive user interface, even if it means spending a little more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the LG W41 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The LG W41’s Helio G35 can run PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you’ll need to lower the graphics settings to medium or low and accept frame rates in the 30-40 FPS range. It’s not a gaming powerhouse, but it’s a significant improvement over the W31 for casual gaming.
❓ Is the difference in performance between the Helio P22 and Helio G35 noticeable in everyday use?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. While both chips can handle basic tasks, the Helio G35 in the W41 provides a smoother experience when switching between apps, browsing the web, and opening applications. The W31 may exhibit slight lag or stuttering during these activities.
❓ Does the LG W41 support fast charging?
Fast charging support is not officially specified for either device. However, given their budget nature, it’s likely both phones support standard 10W or 15W charging. Expect a full charge to take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
❓ Which phone is better for someone who primarily uses their phone for social media and messaging?
Both phones are adequate for social media and messaging. However, the LG W41’s faster processor will result in quicker app loading times and a more responsive experience when scrolling through feeds or sending messages.
