Thinking about picking up a used or refurbished LG G5 in 2024 or 2025? Wondering if this once-bold modular smartphone still holds its own today? You’re in the right place.
Let’s cut through the noise and get real about the LG G5 — not just what it was, but how it stacks up now. Whether you’re a nostalgic tech tinkerer, a budget-conscious buyer, or just curious about LG’s infamous experiment in modular design, this review is built to give you clear answers, real-world insights, and honest pros and cons.
💡 Quick Verdict: Is the LG G5 Still Worth It?
Short answer? Only in very specific cases.
In 2024/2025, the LG G5 is more of a curiosity than a contender. It’s not a practical choice for most users due to outdated specs, software limitations, and spotty support. But if you love experimenting, need a backup device, or want a piece of modular smartphone history, it still has some charm.
✔️ Who It Might Still Be Good For:
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Android tinkerers and nostalgia lovers
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Those who want a budget backup phone
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Users with very light needs (calls, texts, basic apps)
❌ Who Should Avoid It:
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Power users
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Anyone who relies on modern apps or banking tools
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Gamers, photographers, or multitaskers
🔍 Specs at a Glance (and How They Hold Up Today)
| Spec | LG G5 (2016) | Real-World Value in 2024/25 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.3″ QHD IPS (2560×1440) | Still decent — sharp, compact |
| Processor | Snapdragon 820, 4GB RAM | Struggles with modern apps |
| Battery | 2800 mAh, removable | Below average by today’s standards |
| Storage | 32GB (expandable via microSD) | Usable, but tight |
| Camera | 16MP + 8MP ultra-wide | Surprisingly versatile, but dated processing |
| Software | Launched with Android 6, last updated to Android 8 | Severely outdated, no security patches |
| Modularity | Swappable “Friends” modules (camera grip, DAC) | Mostly gimmicky, poorly supported |
Key Insight: The modular hardware was ahead of its time — but the execution didn’t age well. Most modules are now discontinued or hard to find.
🧪 Real-World Performance in 2024/25
So what’s it actually like to use an LG G5 in 2024?
Speed & Everyday Use:
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Light tasks like texting, calling, and browsing? Mostly fine.
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Modern apps like Instagram, YouTube, or Gmail? Laggy at best.
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Multitasking or heavy apps? The 4GB RAM shows its age fast. Expect freezes and forced closes.
“Using the G5 today feels like trying to run Windows 11 on a decade-old laptop. It works… kind of.”
Battery Life:
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Removable battery is cool — but not a real perk anymore unless you already own extras.
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Daily life = barely 4–5 hours screen-on time.
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No fast charging by today’s standards.
Camera:
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Surprisingly okay in daylight — especially the wide-angle shots.
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No night mode, poor low-light performance, and sluggish shutter.
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Modern midrange phones blow it out of the water.
⚙️ The Modular Design: Ahead of Its Time… But Flawed
The LG G5 was bold. Instead of sealed glass slabs, it offered a removable chin that could be swapped for add-ons:
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Hi-Fi DAC module for audiophiles 🎧
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Cam Plus camera grip with manual controls 📸
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Extra batteries and docks 🔋
But Here’s the Reality in 2024:
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Modules are rare and often overpriced on secondhand markets.
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Support is dead. No software integration, no updates.
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The chin connection is fragile and can cause connection issues over time.
Bottom line: Cool concept, rough execution — and not worth pursuing now unless you’re a collector or tinkerer.
🔄 Comparisons: LG G5 vs Other Budget Androids
How does the G5 stack up against other phones you might be considering for the same price (~$60–$100 refurbished)?
| Phone | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Moto G Power (2021) | Huge battery, modern Android, good display | Slower camera, not modular |
| Google Pixel 2 | Great camera (even today), smooth Android experience | No headphone jack, older battery |
| Galaxy S7 | Similar era, better water resistance, better build | No removable battery, outdated |
| LG G5 | Modular, wide-angle camera, removable battery | Old software, limited support |
Recommendation: Unless you really want modularity or LG nostalgia, the Pixel 2 or Moto G Power are better used buys in 2024.
📲 App & Accessory Compatibility
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App support: Many modern apps still install, but some banking, fitness, or secure apps may refuse due to outdated Android.
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Accessories: Uses USB-C, has a headphone jack, supports microSD — surprisingly friendly.
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No NFC/limited Bluetooth support may limit smartwatches or wireless payments.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Should You Buy an LG G5 in 2024?
If you’re a budget-conscious buyer looking for a functional daily driver: skip it.
If you’re a tech hobbyist, collector, or someone who loves Android oddities: you’ll probably enjoy the ride — just don’t expect a smooth one.
✅ LG G5 Pros:
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Modular design (if you can find the parts)
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Wide-angle camera ahead of its time
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Removable battery, expandable storage
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Compact, pocket-friendly design
❌ LG G5 Cons:
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Very outdated software (stuck on Android 8)
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No modern security updates
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Sluggish performance by 2024 standards
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Modules are nearly impossible to find
💬 Your Turn: Still Using the LG G5?
We’d love to hear from you!
Are you still rocking the LG G5 in 2024/25? Got questions before buying refurbished?
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