First Impression: LG G3 Beat is smooth but pricey

The compact version of the G3 fails to create a lasting impression

LG is a class apart when it comes to consumer electronics. But with its phones it has been a mixed bag. The newly launched G3 Beat, the compact version of the company's flagship QHD-display smartphone G3, plans to target the mid-range market in India.

The first feature that strikes you is the classic superior LG screen resolution. Although it cannot be compared to the G3, the pixel density is quite impressive at 294 an inch and a resolution of 1,280x720 pixels.

On the design front, the G3 Beat is similar to the G3 except for the size but compared to other mini-series phones, this one sports a much larger screen of five inches. The build quality is average, especially the back panel could have been much better.

The G3 beat has a 1.3 -megapixel front camera and an eight-megapixel rear camera with optical image stabilisation and laser auto-focus. However, both cameras disappoint. The images are grainy and even with good lighting most snaps end up being pixellated.

LG runs on Android’s 4.4.2 KitKat with the latest flavour of its Optimus user interface (UI). There's no word yet on whether the phone will get an Android L upgrade. The processor is seamless and the customized UI is neat, making it much more user-friendly than the stock Android. The touchscreen is a exemplary and typing is easy on the phone. Multitasking works at a good pace but not as great as on the Google phones. The battery is average and last about a day with full charge.

But here comes the downer: The price. It is not clear what the final price will be but the Rs 24,999/- quoted by most websites where the phone is available for pre-order is way too much.

The Beat is a good phone but lacks the spunk and gloss that a G3 compact version should have ideally had. The biggest stumbling block is the price. The phone should have been priced below Rs 20,000. Nevertheless it’s a good catch for those who want a high-resolution display for gaming and video surfing.

The LG G3 Beat is currently available to gold, silk white and metallic black colours.

PROS

* Brilliant resolution

* Fluid touchscreen

* Smooth processor

* Impressive customised UI

CONS

* Pricey for the specifications

* Disappointing camera

* Average battery

LG G3 Beat Specifications

 DIMENSIONS:  137.7 x 69.6 x 10.3 mm
 DISPLAY:  5inch HD (1,280x720 pixels) IPS

 PROCESSOR:  1.2GHz quad-core with Qualcomm Snapdragon 400
 RAM:  1 GB

 MEMORY:  8GB and expandable upto 64GB
 OS:  Android KitKat, 4.4.4 with Optimus UI
 CAMERA:  8 MP rear, 1.3 MP front