At its core, the LG V60 ThinQ 5G was designed to compete with heavyweights like the Samsung Galaxy S20 series and Apple’s iPhone 11 Pro. Priced more affordably than many of its rivals at launch, it packed top-tier specifications including Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 chipset, support for 5G networks, and a substantial 5000 mAh battery. But what truly set it apart was the included Dual Screen attachment, which in many regions came free with the phone, offering users a unique multitasking experience that felt ahead of its time.
LG’s strategy with the V60 was clear: differentiate through innovation rather than following industry trends. In 2020, global smartphone sales exceeded 1.3 billion units, yet LG’s market share had been declining. The V60 represented a bold attempt to reverse that trend by focusing on features that appealed to both productivity seekers and multimedia consumers. We’ll examine whether that gamble paid off, using hands-on experience and detailed analysis.
Design, Hardware, and Key Features
The LG V60 ThinQ 5G boasts a design that balances elegance with practicality. Measuring 169.4 x 77.7 x 8.9 mm and weighing 219 grams, it feels substantial in hand, thanks to its glass front and back paired with an aluminum frame. While it’s slightly heavier than average, that heft is justified by the large battery inside. The front is dominated by a 6.8-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2460 pixels), delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks that make it ideal for media consumption and gaming.
Under the hood, the phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, which was among the most powerful chipsets available in 2020. Its octa-core CPU and Adreno 650 GPU ensure smooth performance even with demanding applications and games. Memory configurations include 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2TB via microSD—a level of flexibility that’s perfect for photographers, videographers, or anyone with extensive storage needs.
The camera system features a dual-lens setup on the rear: a 64MP primary sensor with Quad-Bayer technology and optical image stabilization (OIS), alongside a 13MP ultra-wide lens. While some competitors were adding more cameras for the sake of numbers, LG focused on quality over quantity, claiming that the large sensor could deliver lossless 2x zoom. In practice, this approach yielded solid results across various lighting conditions, though it wasn’t without its limitations compared to multi-camera arrays.
Battery life is a standout feature, with the 5000 mAh cell easily lasting a full day—or even two—with moderate use. It supports Quick Charge 4.0+ for fast charging, and other essentials like 5G connectivity, dual SIM capability, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, and an under-display fingerprint sensor round out the package, making the V60 a well-equipped device for modern users.
The Dual Screen Attachment: Innovation or Gimmick?
Arguably the most talked-about feature of the LG V60 is its Dual Screen attachment. This isn’t just a peripheral; it’s an integral part of the experience, transforming the phone into a dual-screen device that enables true multitasking. Imagine watching a video on one screen while replying to messages on the other, or using one display for research and the other for note-taking during a meeting. LG initially bundled this accessory for free in many markets, a move that added significant value compared to similar solutions from competitors, which often came at an extra cost.
User feedback highlighted its usefulness in productivity scenarios, such as video calls paired with document editing, and in gaming where supported titles could utilize both screens for enhanced controls or immersive experiences. However, drawbacks include added bulk—the attachment increases the phone’s weight and thickness—and occasional software glitches, like apps not optimizing properly for the dual display. Despite these issues, for those willing to embrace its quirks, the Dual Screen offered a glimpse into the future of smartphone functionality.
Performance and Everyday Usability
In day-to-day use, the LG V60 ThinQ 5G delivers excellent performance, thanks to the Snapdragon 865 chip. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is seamless, and graphically intensive games like Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly on high settings. The 5000 mAh battery is a workhorse; in testing with moderate usage—browsing, social media, calls—it consistently lasted over 24 hours, a rarity among flagship phones that often struggle to make it through a full day.
The camera system, while minimalist with its dual-lens setup, performs admirably in most conditions. Daylight shots are detailed and colorful, and the ultra-wide lens captures expansive scenes without significant distortion. Low-light performance is decent, though it can’t match dedicated night modes from some competitors, it holds its own for casual photography. Video recording benefits from OIS and high-resolution capabilities, making it a solid choice for content creators.
Software, Updates, and Long-Term Support
The V60 launched with Android 10 and LG’s custom UX skin, which added useful features like screen recording, a desktop mode, and enhanced multitasking options tailored for the Dual Screen. However, software support has been a point of contention; LG announced its exit from the smartphone market in 2021, casting doubt on long-term updates. While the V60 received Android 11 and security patches for a time, future support is uncertain, which may concern users who prioritize ongoing software maintenance.
On the plus side, the software experience is clean and intuitive, with minimal bloatware and thoughtful integrations for the Dual Screen. Features like App Pair allow users to launch two apps simultaneously, and the ability to use the second screen as a virtual keyboard or controller adds to its versatility. For those who value customization and productivity, the V60’s software enhances rather than detracts from the experience.
5G Connectivity and Real-World Speeds
As one of the early 5G-enabled devices, the LG V60 supports both sub-6 GHz and mmWave networks (depending on the region), offering future-proof connectivity. In areas with 5G coverage, users can expect download speeds significantly faster than 4G, though real-world performance varies based on carrier and location. For activities like streaming high-resolution video, downloading large files, or online gaming, 5G provides a noticeable boost, making the V60 a capable device for the next generation of mobile networks.
It’s worth noting that 5G can impact battery life, but the V60’s large cell helps mitigate this effect. During testing, enabling 5G did reduce endurance slightly, but not enough to be a dealbreaker for most users. Overall, the inclusion of 5G adds value, especially as networks continue to expand globally.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the LG V60 ThinQ 5G
Every device has its strengths and weaknesses, and the V60 is no exception. Here’s a balanced look at what it does well and where it falls short:
- Pros: Exceptional battery life, innovative Dual Screen functionality, powerful Snapdragon 865 performance, expandable storage, and competitive pricing at launch.
- Cons: Bulky design with Dual Screen attached, limited long-term software support due to LG’s exit from the market, camera system lags behind some competitors in versatility, and occasional software bugs with the dual display.
For users who prioritize battery life, multitasking, and unique features, the pros likely outweigh the cons. However, those seeking the latest software updates or a more refined camera experience might find better options elsewhere.
Conclusion: Is the LG V60 ThinQ 5G Still Worth Considering?
The LG V60 ThinQ 5G was a bold experiment that succeeded in many ways, offering a distinctive alternative to mainstream flagships. Its Dual Screen accessory, combined with stellar battery life and solid performance, made it a standout in 2020. Today, while it may no longer receive the latest updates, it remains a capable device for users who value functionality over fashion. If you can find one at a discounted price, it’s still a compelling choice for multitaskers, media consumers, and anyone intrigued by innovative tech.
Looking back, the V60 represents LG’s willingness to take risks in a competitive market—a philosophy that, while not always successful, pushed boundaries and offered consumers something different. For that alone, it deserves recognition as a memorable chapter in smartphone history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the LG V60 ThinQ 5G support wireless charging?
Yes, it supports both wired fast charging and wireless charging, making it convenient for various charging setups.
Can I use the Dual Screen with other phones?
No, the Dual Screen attachment is specifically designed for the LG V60 ThinQ 5G and is not compatible with other models.
How does the camera compare to modern smartphones?
While capable, the V60’s camera system may not match the computational photography features of newer devices from Apple, Samsung, or Google, but it still holds up well for everyday use.
Is the LG V60 still a good buy in 2023?
If you can find it at a significant discount and don’t mind limited software updates, it offers great value for its battery life and unique features.
What happened to LG’s smartphone division?
LG announced it was exiting the smartphone market in April 2021, focusing instead on other tech sectors, which means no new devices or major updates for existing models.
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