This phone has a CULT following.

Summary

The LG V30, a smartphone released in 2017, remains a favorite for audio enthusiasts due to its high-quality quad-DAC headphone port, expandable storage via MicroSD, and well-rounded camera system. Despite being six years old, it still holds up well in 2024, especially as a digital audio player (DAP). The V30's premium design, solid build, and unique features like the rear-mounted fingerprint scanner and curved edges continue to make it relevant. Its limited software updates haven't deterred enthusiasts, who keep it alive with custom ROMs. LG's exit from the smartphone market marks the end of an era for innovative devices like the V30.

Takeaways

• 😀 The LG V30 is still loved by a loyal group of users due to its timeless design, high-quality build, and excellent audio features.
• 😀 The V30's quad-DAC headphone port is one of the best on the market, providing superior sound quality and the ability to drive high-impedance headphones without issues.
• 😀 The phone's microSD slot for expandable storage is a rare feature in 2024, making it a standout choice for media lovers.
• 😀 The V30 is repurposed by many users as a dedicated digital audio player (DAP), especially due to its audio quality and file management features.
• 😀 Despite being released in 2017, the V30's camera system with a 16 MP main sensor and 13 MP ultra-wide lens still performs well in good lighting conditions.
• 😀 The V30 has limitations in low-light photography and with moving subjects, but it offers decent color accuracy, dynamic range, and exposure balancing.
• 😀 The V30's camera includes unique features like log video recording, but lacks some of the ease-of-use found in modern devices for switching lenses.
• 😀 The phone only received official updates up to Android 9.0, but the community continues to support it with custom ROMs for newer software.
• 😀 The V30's design, including its curved sides and rear fingerprint scanner, makes it a comfortable and pocket-friendly device.
• 😀 LG's exit from the smartphone market has led to a lull in smartphone innovation, with the V30's features—such as the headphone jack and triple-camera setup—now being rare in modern devices.
• 😀 Despite software limitations, the V30 remains a great choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable smartphone or audio player in 2024.

Q & A

Why do people still use the LG V30 in 2024?

People continue to use the LG V30 in 2024 mainly due to its excellent audio quality, timeless design, and unique features like the high-quality headphone port and microSD card expansion. It serves as a solid digital audio player (DAP) and still functions well for its price.

What makes the LG V30's headphone port stand out compared to other smartphones?

The V30's headphone port is backed by a quad DAC, offering audiophile-quality sound. It can adjust power output based on the connected headphones' impedance, which allows users to use high-impedance headphones like the HD600s without issues, outperforming many modern devices in audio quality.

How does the V30's audio performance compare to dedicated audio players?

The V30's audio performance has been tested to rival expensive dedicated audio players. It consistently outperforms other phones like Samsung and OnePlus models, offering better sound quality, making it a highly praised option for audio enthusiasts.

Why is the microSD card slot important for users of the LG V30?

The microSD card slot is important because it allows for easy storage expansion, a feature that's increasingly rare in modern smartphones. This makes the V30 an attractive option for those who need more storage or prefer the flexibility of removable storage.

What are the limitations of the LG V30's camera in 2024?

While the LG V30's camera setup (16MP main, 13MP ultra-wide, 5MP selfie) provides good results in well-lit environments, it struggles in low-light conditions and with moving subjects. The sensor sizes are smaller than those found in newer phones, leading to a decrease in image quality in challenging conditions.

Why is there a camera shutter sound that cannot be disabled on some LG V30 units?

In countries like Korea, there's legislation that requires camera shutter sounds to be audible, even when the phone is in silent or do-not-disturb mode. This law aims to prevent unauthorized photography, which is why some V30 units have this feature.

What software limitations does the LG V30 face in 2024?

The LG V30 is stuck on Android 9.0, which limits access to newer apps and features. While some users install custom ROMs to update the device, the lack of official updates makes the software experience somewhat outdated, limiting its functionality compared to modern devices.

What is the significance of LG's exit from the smartphone market in relation to the V30?

LG's exit from the smartphone market is significant because it marks the end of a company that was known for innovative and unique smartphone features. The V30, with its exceptional audio capabilities and thoughtful design, represents a lost era of smartphone innovation that many enthusiasts still cherish.

What are some unique design elements of the LG V30?

The LG V30 features a sleek, curved design that makes it lightweight and easy to hold. It has a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner that doubles as the power button, and its volume buttons are conveniently located separately on the left side, making it user-friendly. The headphone jack is located at the top, another unique design choice.

How does the V30's build quality compare to newer smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra?

The LG V30 is 32% lighter than the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and has a design that's easier to handle due to its curved sides. The V30 is also easier to fit into pockets compared to bulkier modern smartphones, making it a more practical option for users who prioritize comfort and portability.