Click the phones above to compare the Nexus 5 to the LG G2, Galaxy S4, Xperia SP and Nexus 4!
The Nexus 5 is based on the LG G2, but the differences between the two phones are more significant than they were between the Nexus 4 and the Optimus G. Let’s take a look.
Hardware
Because the Nexus 5 is based on the G2, it therefore shares a lot of the same hardware – we’ve got the same processor, the same RAM, a slightly smaller display and the same LTE support. There are a few hardware differences though, namely that the G2 has a better 13 megapixel camera and a much bigger 3,000 mAh battery.
Software
The two devices are much less similar in software. Like Samsung, LG love to introduce their own features and style everywhere; unlike Samsung their changes are almost uniformly bad. Here I give a heavy advantage to the Nexus 5, for its use of stock Android 4.4, and for its more rapid future updates.
Design
The design of the two phones is also a big differentiator, with both Google and LG opting to make more substantive changes this year than last. The G2 introduces a thinner bezel and rear-mounted buttons, while the Nexus 5 has a soft-touch back, oversized camera piece and ceramic buttons.
The G2 design is definitely more revolutionary, with the button placement causing more excitment and consternation in those that have tried it. The Nexus 5 design is more pedestrian, but still feels uniquely Googley with the large horizontal logo, and the back and buttons do feel good.
Ecosystem
While the LG G2 is the flagship phone for LG, I’d give a slight ecosystem edge to the Nexus 5. That’s because the Android enthusiasts that buy Nexus devices seem more likely to invest in the phone for the long haul – creating apps, buying accessories and hacking the device to do more. While there are definitely still quite a few LG G2 cases and other accessories available, the Nexus 5 looks like a safer bet.
Overall
Unless camera quality or battery life is your main concern, choose the Nexus 5 – it’s just as fast, has way better software and a design with wider appeal. Not to mention, it’s £100 cheaper.
- Forward to Part 2: The Nexus 5 vs the Galaxy S4.
Still prefer the Nexus 5. Better feel in the hand, and not to mention I’m not sure I could get used to those buttons on the back!