LG Optimus L5 II Pro Reviews

A likeable Android skin and a lightweight, compact body can't make up for dreadful performance

The LG Optimus L5 II meets the requirements of a mainstream smartphone: It does not really stand out in one category. Inside the pretty simple case is a SoC with a weak processor and limited memory equipment. The internal storage is just too small and the quality of the camera is tolerable at best. The touchscreen with the sticky surface attracts dirt, at least it does not affect the functionality. Fortunately the LG Optimus L5 II has some highlights: The display is very bright and has excellent viewing angles thanks to the IPS technology but there is also a drawback: The black value and contrast could be better, it would certainly improve the picture quality. The adjustable button on the left side of the case is a nice feature and the voice quality convinces us; there is also NFC and fast HSUPA. The smartphone is quite inconspicuous in the other categories: Battery runtimes, gaming performance, heat development and software are okay but nothing more. Overall inconspicuous is perhaps the best adjective to describe the LG Optimus L5 II: You won't get any jealous looks and no problems either. The device has no critical drawbacks but if you are looking for something special you will have to continue your search.

This budget phone has a great battery life and good performance, but its screen and camera slightly let it down

There was a time when cheap smartphones were slow and clunky, which made them frustrating to use, but it looks like things are now changing for the better. Of course, the LG Optimus L5 II is far from a benchmark record holder, but it offers performance that is satisfactory and very adequate for its class. Furthermore, it has a screen that is better than what you'd see on similarly priced devices – one of its best advantages over the competition. The camera, on the other hand, is mediocre at best, so don't expect it to put even a basic point-and-shoot camera to shame. We find the LG Optimus L5 II very suitable for people who are now making the switch from a basic or feature phone to a smartphone. Teenagers will also dig it for its colorful, customizable interface and average size. And naturally, smartphone buyers on a budget might be interested in it as well, although they should also keep in mind that a dual-SIM variant of the device is also coming soon. In case the LG Optimus L5 II doesn't get you excited, The HTC Desire X is an alternative you might want to consider. It looks cooler and has a camera that is likely to produce better results. The Samsung Galaxy S III mini is another, albeit a bit more expensive, option that has a faster processor and a superior 5-megapixel snapper. Or in case you need something even cheaper, yet still usable, the Sony Xperia E or the Samsung Galaxy Fame would be the smartphones to go with.