LG Optimus L9
Verdict
Key specs
Critic consensus
“So, it turns out there's quite a lot to like about the LG Optimus L9. Its key selling point is the big screen, which is rather hard to come by in this price range. Retina levels of pixel density were out of the question - should we say, budget - but qHD doesn't look too bad. The reasonably powerful hardware, nice looks, and excellent custom user interface are some more good reasons to choose the L9 if you are into big-screened smartphones. The one thing that might turn a few users away is the disappointing camera performance, though imaging isn't necessarily everyone's top priority. What could be more problematic is LG's poor reputation when it comes to updates. The Optimus L9 delivers soundly out of the box, but it is yet to make (if ever) the Jelly Bean waiting list. After all, there are at least two devices ahead of it in the pecking order and we've barely heard anything constructive about them just yet. So, the LG Optimus L9 seems to make itself pretty comfortable in its little niche. Flagship-sized screen and solid performance at an attractive price point is certainly a combo many will be happy with. And considering there's virtually no competition (at least until the Galaxy Grand arrives), the L9 has every chance of making it big. We'd say it will be well deserved.”
“I was impressed by the LG Optimus L9 hardware and software performance and for those looking for a lower cost Android device I have no problem recommending the L9. It is very pocketable, has a long lasting battery, takes decent photos, and works well as a phone.”
“Considering T-Mobile's offering of midrange 4G handsets, I'd recommend the LG Optimus L9. Its $80 sticker price (after a mail-in rebate and two-year service agreement) is reasonable, especially since T-Mobile's less expensive handsets run on Android 2.3 and start out only $30 cheaper. Plus, the phones that do offer native ICS, like the $150 Samsung Galaxy S Relay 4G and HTC One S, take a steep rise in price. But even putting aside the updated OS and 4G capabilities, users will also get a dual-core processor and a 5-megapixel that can record 1080p HD video. With these decent specs and solid performance, the L9 is worth considering for any T-Mobile customer who wants to get the most out of his or her wallet.”
“The Optimus L9 isn't totally without merit. We appreciate its boxy yet dapper design and its sharp, colorful display. And while the performance didn't blow us away, it's more than good enough for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking email and playing the occasional game. We also enjoyed the addition of T-Mobile's WiFi calling feature. Yet, its mediocre camera reminds us of its mid-level status, the carrier's bloatware is a disappointment and LG's UI 3.0, though inoffensive, belongs in the past. Its short battery life is also a practical issue that buyers should be aware of before signing any contracts.”
Watch before you decide
What people say
Only a few ratings so far, not enough to show a trend yet.
1 rating so far
Android running ICS I really like it all. Very light not big like some others. Powerful cameras. does Panoramas and video effects. minus a star for no light when there is a text and it is asleep. Get one!
In Depth
When compared to its predecessor, the Optimus L7, critics are quick to note that the LG Optimus L9 offers a higher quality experience. Phonescoop praises the build and manufacturing of the phone stating, “Nothing about the L9 is creaky or loose.” Design-wise reviewers point out the attractive albeit somewhat generic rectangular slab. It measures in at 5.2″ x 2.7″ x 0.36 inches and weighs 122 grams. While most critics found these dimensions easy to handle for long periods of time without fatigue, PCMag had difficulty using it one-handed.
The viewing experience on the L9 is also a step up from the L7. The 4.5″ LCD display offers a qHD resolution of 540 pixels. While the resolution isn’t as good as more high-end devices, reviewers agree that it offers crisp, bright images, good viewing angles and excellent bright light legibility. In order to prevent scratches, a layer of Gorilla Glass 2 protects the display.
In terms of specs, the phone offers an adequate 1 GHz dual core processor and 1GB of RAM. GSM Arena benchmark tests put the device solidly in middle. After performing some real world tests, critics did not experience any lag when performing normal activities or when playing less graphics intensive games. Battery life exceeded expectation lasting over 7 hours in Laptop Mag’s battery test. Unfortunately, the one drawback of the phone is its 4GB storage. While there is an expandable microSD slot, the space is only usable for images and videos not apps.
For a budget handset, experts were fairly impressed with the overall quality. Although the phone doesn’t offer the best hardware or display out there, TMO News states, “if you just want a nice little Android phone, don’t care about the most recent updates and just want something that’ll power you through the day, the L9 is a great choice.”
What people actually want to know
When was the LG Optimus L9 released?
The LG Optimus L9 was released on October 31, 2012.
How long does the battery last on the LG Optimus L9?
The LG Optimus L9 has a 2,150 mAh battery.
Does the LG Optimus L9 have a headphone jack?
Yes, the LG Optimus L9 has a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Where can I download the LG Optimus L9 manual?
You can view and download the LG Optimus L9 manual on our dedicated manual page.
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