LG Optimus G Pro from AT&T Review


Conclusion

If you're considering a purchase of the Optimus G Pro, the phone's large, 5.5-inch screen is likely a key feature that has caught your eye. Indeed, the screen looks great, and the fact that it supports Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution is a definite selling point as well. However, although the Optimus G Pro's large screen is definitely an attractive feature, the resulting increase in the phone's footprint will deter some users. Ultimately, you'll have to decide whether the bigger screen is worth the tradeoff in overall size, though clearly there is a market for this class of device.  In fact, those who want/need this much screen real estate, could likely never go back once they experience it.

LG's QSlide apps feature takes advantage of the screen real estate on this phone as well, by letting you view up to three apps at the same time. Although the phone only supports select apps in QSlide mode, the supported apps (Videos, Note Pad, Calendar, and Calculator) are the most obvious choices. Keep in mind that any app can run in the background of these QSlide apps. This feature is a unique addition that helps users appreciate the Optimus G Pro's larger screen.

LG also includes a few other software features on the Optimus G Pro that you don't always find on a smartphone including QuickRemote, QuickMemo, and VuTalk. The QuickRemote and QuickMemo apps were easy to use and add some utility. We wish LG would have included a stylus for use with QuickMemo as Samsung did with its Galaxy Note II. VuTalk seems like a cool idea in concept but unless you know other users who also have this functionality on their phone, you won't be able to use it.  

During our tests, the phone performed very well our benchmark runs. During real-world testing, the Optimus G Pro responded quickly and smoothly to flicking through home screens, opening apps, browsing the web, and performing other tasks. Battery life is a bit of a mixed bag and will vary depending on how you use the phone. The large display requires a good amount of power, so demanding users may find the phone needing a boost before the end of the day.  That said, with its 3140mAh battery, it does hold up pretty well for its screen size.

You can the Optimus G Pro for $199 on contract and there are unlocked versions available as well. All in all, the Optimus G Pro offers a number of compelling features in addition to excellent performance. If you want a large-screen smartphone and are willing to put up with the footprint of such a device, the LG Optimus G Pro is definitely worthy of your consideration.

     
  • Great performance
  • QSlide multitasking
  • Gorgeous Full HD (1920 x 1080) display
  • Large footprint
  • Camera quality could be better
  • Lots of preloaded apps


Related content