The mobile landscape is constantly evolving, with new devices vying for your attention. If you’re trying to navigate the choices between two distinct smartphones from different eras, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re pitting the LG G3 against the iconic iPhone 5s.
The LG G3, released in 2014, aimed to impress with its large display and advanced features. Meanwhile, the iPhone 5s, a 2013 release, set a new standard for premium smartphones with its sleek design and powerful performance. Both offered unique selling points that appealed to different user preferences.
Deciding between these two can be a challenge, especially considering their differing philosophies and technological advancements. We’ll break down their key specifications, design, camera capabilities, and overall user experience to help you determine which device might still be worth considering or which represented a significant leap forward.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | LG G3 | iPhone 5s |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.5-inch | 4.0-inch |
| Display Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (QHD) | 1136 x 640 (Retina) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 | Apple A7 |
| RAM | 2GB / 3GB | 1GB |
| Rear Camera | 13MP with OIS | 8MP |
| Front Camera | 2.1MP | 1.2MP |
| Storage Options | 16GB / 32GB (expandable) | 16GB / 32GB / 64GB |
| Battery Capacity | 3000 mAh | 1560 mAh |
| Operating System | Android 4.4 KitKat | iOS 7 |
| Dimensions | 146.3 x 74.6 x 8.9 mm | 123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6 mm |
| Weight | 149g | 112g |
| Build Material | Plastic with faux-metal finish | Aluminum |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Lg G3: Features a massive 5.5-inch Quad HD (2560 x 1440) IPS display. This offers incredibly sharp visuals with vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. The large screen size is a pro for many, but can be a con for those preferring smaller, one-handed devices.
- iPhone 5s: Sports a more compact 4-inch Retina Display (1136 x 640). While not as sharp as the G3’s, it still delivers excellent color accuracy and clarity for its size. Its smaller footprint makes it very comfortable for one-handed use, but it lacks the immersive experience of larger displays.
- Winner: lg g3
Processor & Performance
- Lg G3: Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 chipset, paired with either 2GB or 3GB of RAM depending on storage. This combination delivers smooth multitasking and handles demanding applications and games with ease. It was a top-tier processor for its time, offering a fluid user experience.
- iPhone 5s: Equipped with Apple’s A7 chip with a 64-bit architecture and M7 motion coprocessor. This processor, despite being older, offers remarkably smooth and efficient performance, especially within Apple’s optimized ecosystem. It handles everyday tasks and most apps very well.
- Winner: lg g3
Camera
- Lg G3: Boasts a 13MP rear camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a laser autofocus system. This allows for quick and sharp shots, even in low light conditions. The OIS is a significant advantage for reducing blur.
- iPhone 5s: Features an 8MP rear camera with a dual-LED True Tone flash. While it has fewer megapixels, Apple’s image processing is renowned for producing natural-looking photos with good detail and color. The True Tone flash helps with more accurate skin tones.
- Winner: lg g3
Battery Life
- Lg G3: Comes with a removable 3000 mAh battery. The large battery capacity, combined with its Quad HD display, offers decent battery life for moderate users, though heavy use can drain it quickly. The removability is a plus for those who carry spares.
- iPhone 5s: Has a non-removable 1560 mAh battery. Due to its smaller screen and efficient processor, the 5s generally provides a full day of moderate use. However, its battery capacity is significantly smaller than the G3’s.
- Winner: lg g3
Storage Options
- Lg G3: Available in 16GB and 32GB internal storage options, both expandable via microSD card up to 128GB. This offers significant flexibility for users who need to store a lot of media or apps. The microSD slot is a major advantage.
- iPhone 5s: Offered in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB internal storage options, with no expandable storage. While the 64GB option is generous, the lack of a microSD card slot can be limiting for users who prefer not to rely on cloud storage.
- Winner: lg g3
Build Quality & Design
- Lg G3: Features a plastic unibody design with a brushed metal-like finish and rear-mounted buttons. While it aims for a premium feel, it’s still plastic. The rear buttons are a unique LG design element that some find intuitive.
- iPhone 5s: Constructed with an aluminum unibody, offering a premium and durable feel. It’s sleek, slim, and features the iconic Home button with a fingerprint sensor (Touch ID). The metal build is generally considered superior in terms of premium feel and durability.
- Winner: iphone 5s
Software & Ecosystem
- Lg G3: Runs on Android with LG’s custom UI (Optimus UI/LG UI). It offers a high degree of customization and access to the vast Google Play Store. Updates can be slower depending on carrier and region.
- iPhone 5s: Runs on iOS. Known for its user-friendly interface, strong app ecosystem, and timely software updates directly from Apple. Integration with other Apple devices is seamless.
- Winner: iphone 5s
Special Features
- Lg G3: Notable features include its laser autofocus for quick and accurate focusing, KnockOn (double-tap to wake), and a removable battery. The laser autofocus is a standout for camera enthusiasts.
- iPhone 5s: Introduced Touch ID, a revolutionary fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and app authentication. The A7 chip’s 64-bit architecture was also a significant technological leap at the time.
- Winner: iphone 5s
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | LG G3 |
| Performance | LG G3 |
| Camera | LG G3 |
| Battery Life | LG G3 |
| Software Experience | iPhone 5s |
| Design & Build | iPhone 5s |
| Value (at release) | LG G3 |
| Portability | iPhone 5s |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both devices feature LCD displays, offering vibrant colors and good viewing angles for their respective resolutions.
- Touchscreen Interface: Both smartphones utilize capacitive touchscreen technology, providing responsive and intuitive interaction with the operating system and applications.
- High-Quality Cameras: While differing in megapixel count, both phones were lauded for their camera performance at their release, capable of taking sharp and detailed photos in good lighting conditions.
- Modern Connectivity: Both the LG G3 and iPhone 5s support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless data transfer and connection to accessories.
- App Ecosystems: Users of both devices benefit from access to vast app stores (Google Play Store and Apple App Store), offering a wide range of applications for productivity, entertainment, and more.
- Biometric Security: The LG G3 features a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, while the iPhone 5s introduced Touch ID, providing convenient and secure device unlocking.
Lg G3 Vs Iphone 5S Buying Guide
Condition and Age
When comparing the LG G3 and iPhone 5S, consider their age. The LG G3, released in 2014, is newer than the iPhone 5S from 2013. This means the G3 might have seen less general wear and tear if both were purchased around their release dates. However, for used devices, inspect for battery health, screen condition, and any signs of physical damage, as these factors will be more critical for the older iPhone 5S.
Prioritize devices that have been well-maintained. Look for listings that provide detailed photos and descriptions of the phone’s condition. A well-cared-for iPhone 5S might still be a better buy than a poorly maintained G3, and vice-versa. Always factor in the price relative to the cosmetic and functional condition. (See Also: Clarity Skin Care Vs Dermalogica )
Performance and Software Updates
The LG G3, with its Snapdragon 801 processor, offered a noticeable performance boost over the iPhone 5S’s A7 chip, especially in demanding applications and multitasking. However, the iPhone 5S’s A7 was incredibly efficient and well-optimized for iOS, often feeling snappier in everyday use. Consider your primary usage: for gaming and heavy multitasking, the G3 might have an edge, while for general app usage and a smooth interface, the 5S remains competent.
Software updates are a crucial consideration. The iPhone 5S has long since ceased receiving official iOS updates, limiting its security and app compatibility. The LG G3, while also no longer receiving official Android updates from LG, might have a larger community of custom ROM developers, offering a path to newer Android versions. If you need the latest security patches and app support, neither is ideal, but the possibility of custom ROMs on the G3 offers more longevity.
Camera Capabilities
The LG G3 boasted a 13MP rear camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a significant feature for its time, promising sharper photos in low light and less blur from hand shake. The iPhone 5S featured an 8MP iSight camera, praised for its excellent color accuracy and natural-looking images. Both cameras were top-tier for their respective release years.
In practice, the G3’s OIS often resulted in better low-light performance and clearer shots when moving. The iPhone 5S, however, was renowned for its consistent image quality and the ease with which it captured pleasing photos. If you prioritize the absolute best low-light shots and the ability to capture sharp images of moving subjects, the G3 might be preferable. For reliable, true-to-life colors and a simpler point-and-shoot experience, the iPhone 5S excels. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Nintendo Lite )
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a critical factor, especially with older devices. The LG G3 came with a removable 3000 mAh battery, which was quite substantial for its era. This allowed for easy replacement if degradation occurred. The iPhone 5S, conversely, had a non-removable 1560 mAh battery, which was smaller but optimized for iOS efficiency. Real-world usage varied significantly, but the G3 generally offered more longevity on a full charge.
The removable battery on the G3 is a significant advantage for long-term ownership, as a fresh battery can restore performance. The iPhone 5S’s battery will likely have degraded considerably over time, potentially requiring professional replacement. Consider how important battery longevity and the ability to swap batteries are to your daily use. If you plan on extensive use without frequent charging, the G3, especially with a new battery, might be the better choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy LG G3 If…
- You prioritize a large, high-resolution display for media consumption and multitasking.
- You want the flexibility of expandable storage and a user-replaceable battery.
- You prefer the customization options and open nature of the Android operating system.
- You are looking for a device with advanced camera features and a unique rear-mounted button layout.
Buy iPhone 5s If…
- You are invested in the Apple ecosystem and enjoy the simplicity and polish of iOS.
- You value a compact and lightweight device that is easy to handle with one hand.
- You are looking for a consistently smooth and reliable user experience with timely software updates.
- You appreciate the premium build quality and the integration of Touch ID for security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better display?
The LG G3 features a larger 5.5-inch Quad HD (1440 x 2560) IPS display, offering significantly higher resolution and pixel density than the iPhone 5S. The iPhone 5S has a 4-inch Retina Display (640 x 1136). While the G3’s display is sharper and more immersive, the iPhone 5S’s display is known for its excellent color calibration and brightness, making it very pleasing for its size.
Is the camera on the LG G3 better than the iPhone 5S?
The LG G3’s 13MP camera with OIS generally produced sharper images, especially in low light conditions, and was better at reducing motion blur due to its optical stabilization. The iPhone 5S’s 8MP camera, while lower in resolution, was praised for its natural color reproduction and consistent performance in good lighting. For video recording and low-light photography, the G3 often had an advantage, while the 5S excelled at capturing true-to-life stills. (See Also: Wingstop Tenders Vs Boneless Wings )
Which phone is more durable?
Durability is subjective and depends heavily on how the phones were treated. The iPhone 5S, with its aluminum unibody construction, felt very solid and premium. The LG G3 had a plastic body with a faux-metal finish and a “self-healing” back. While the G3’s plastic might be less prone to shattering on impact, the iPhone 5S’s build quality often made it feel more robust in hand. Both are susceptible to screen damage from drops.
Can I still get software updates for these phones?
Neither the LG G3 nor the iPhone 5S receive official software updates from their manufacturers anymore. The iPhone 5S is stuck on iOS 12, and the LG G3 typically topped out at Android 6.0 Marshmallow. While the G3 might have a larger custom ROM community allowing for newer Android versions, neither is recommended if you require the latest security patches or compatibility with brand-new applications.
Which phone is better for gaming?
For gaming, the LG G3 generally holds an advantage due to its more powerful Snapdragon 801 processor and its larger, higher-resolution display. This allows for more demanding games to run smoother and with better visual fidelity. The iPhone 5S’s A7 chip was powerful for its time and handled many iOS games well, but it will struggle with more graphically intensive titles compared to the G3.
Final Verdict
The LG G3 and iPhone 5S represent different eras of smartphone technology. The LG G3 offered a larger, sharper display and a more powerful processor, making it a better choice for media consumption and demanding applications. Its removable battery was also a significant advantage for longevity. However, the iPhone 5S, despite its age, provided a consistently smooth user experience with its optimized iOS and excellent camera quality for its time. For users prioritizing a larger screen, better multitasking, and the flexibility of a removable battery, the LG G3 is the superior option. For those who value a premium build, a highly optimized operating system, and reliable point-and-shoot camera performance, the iPhone 5S still holds some appeal, though its software limitations are significant.
Winner: Lg G3