The LG W31 and W31+ represent LG's foray into the ultra-budget smartphone market. Released in close succession, the 'plus' variant raises the question: are the changes substantial enough to warrant a separate model, or are we looking at a marketing refresh? This comparison dissects the specifications to determine if the W31+ offers a tangible benefit over its predecessor.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the LG W31 and W31+ are functionally identical. Both devices utilize the same Mediatek Helio P22 chipset and CPU, resulting in similar performance. The W31 is the better value proposition if available at a lower price point, as the differences are negligible.
| 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 | 2020, November 06. Released 2020, December 23 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 166.2 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.54 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 166.2 x 76.3 x 8.4 mm (6.54 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 173.6 g (6.14 oz) | 173.6 g (6.14 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~269 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~80.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.52 inches, 102.6 cm2 (~80.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Triple | 13 MP, (wide), 1/3.0", 1.12µm, PDAF
5 MP, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | 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) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 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 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Blue | Midnight Blue |
| Models | LMK315IM, LM-K315, LM-K315IM | LMK315IM, LM-K315, LM-K315IM |
| Price | About 140 EUR | About 130 EUR |
LG W31+
- Identical performance to the LG W31
- May be available with slightly updated software (depending on release date)
- Potential for minor cosmetic differences
- Likely carries a price premium over the LG W31 for minimal gains
- No significant hardware upgrades
LG W31
- Identical performance to the LG W31+
- Potentially lower price point
- Excellent value for basic smartphone needs
- No hardware improvements over the LG W31+
- May receive software updates slightly later
Display Comparison
Both the LG W31+ and W31 feature displays that, based on market positioning, are likely 6.53-inch IPS LCD panels. Given the price bracket, expect 720 x 1600 resolution. Without specific brightness or color gamut data, it's safe to assume both offer a standard viewing experience for the price. The lack of higher refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like LTPO is typical for this segment, meaning users shouldn't expect fluid scrolling or vibrant colors.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications are often where budget phones differentiate themselves, but in this case, details are scarce. It's highly probable both phones feature a similar multi-camera setup, likely headlined by a 13MP main sensor. Any additional sensors (depth, macro) are likely low-resolution (2MP) and offer limited practical benefit. Image processing will likely be similar, focusing on basic scene optimization. Users shouldn't expect exceptional low-light performance or advanced features like optical image stabilization (OIS).
Performance
The core of both devices is the Mediatek MT6762 Helio P22 (12 nm) chipset, paired with an Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This configuration delivers adequate performance for basic tasks like web browsing, social media, and light app usage. The 12nm process node suggests reasonable power efficiency, but don't expect sustained high performance during demanding tasks. Gaming will be limited to less graphically intensive titles, and multitasking may exhibit some lag. The identical chipset and CPU mean thermal management will be virtually the same on both devices.
Battery Life
While specific battery capacities aren't provided, both devices likely house a 4000mAh battery, typical for this price range. Charging wattage is also likely in the 10-15W range. Expect a full charge to take around 2-3 hours. The Helio P22's power efficiency, combined with the 720p display, should provide all-day battery life for moderate usage. The identical chipsets and likely similar battery capacities mean battery performance will be nearly identical.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG W31+ if you find it at the same price as the W31 – ensuring you're not paying extra for a virtually identical device. Buy the LG W31 if you prioritize value and can secure it for a lower price; the core user experience will be indistinguishable. Both phones are suited for users needing a basic smartphone for calls, messaging, and light social media use.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the LG W31+ run demanding games like PUBG Mobile?
The Mediatek Helio P22 chipset is not designed for demanding games. While PUBG Mobile may be playable at the lowest settings, expect significant frame rate drops and lag. This phone is better suited for casual gaming and less graphically intensive titles.
❓ Is the camera quality on either phone good enough for social media?
The camera quality will be adequate for casual social media use in good lighting conditions. However, don't expect exceptional detail or low-light performance. The 2MP macro and depth sensors are likely to offer limited improvements over the main sensor.
❓ How long will the battery last on a single charge with typical usage?
With typical usage (calls, messaging, social media, web browsing), both the LG W31 and W31+ should provide all-day battery life thanks to the efficient Helio P22 chipset and likely 4000mAh battery. Heavy gaming or video streaming will reduce battery life significantly.
