The LG Optimus 3D isn’t just part of the dual-core CPU club, it sets itself apart with an autostereoscopic 3D LCD that’s either revolutionary or a sales gimmick. Still, if it works for the Nintendo 3DS, it might well work for LG’s phone. The Google Nexus S stands waiting to give it a good smack in the screen…
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Stat-fight: LG Optimus 3D vs. Google Nexus S
| LG Optimus 3D | VS | Google Nexus S | |
| Display | 4.3-inch 3D LCD | 4.0-inch Super AMOLED | |
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels | 480 x 800 pixels | |
| Processor | 1GHz Dual-Core Dual-Channel processor (Texas Instruments OMAP4) | 1GHz ARM Cortex A8 ‘Hummingbird’ | |
| Software | Android 2.2 at launch, customised with a 3D UI. Upgradeable to 2.3 | Pure Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) build | |
| Storage | Up to 40GB | Up to 16GB | |
| Rear camera | 5.0 Megapixels with dual 5MP cameras with autofocus, LED flash and geotagging. Capable of taking stereoscopic photos and videos (720p only); plus 1080p video capture in 2D mode | 5.0 Megapixels with Autofocus, LED flash, geo-tagging, touch focus and 720p video recording | |
| Front camera | Yes | Yes | 4G | No | No |
| 3G | 3G/HSDPA/HSPA+ (14Mbps) | 3G/HSDPA (7.2Mbps) | |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11b/g/n | |
| Bluetooth | 3.0 with A2DP | 2.1 with EDR | |
| Size | 68.0 x 128.8 x 11.9mm | 63.0 x 123.9 x 10.88mm | |
| Weight | 168g | 129g | |
| Talktime | TBA | 6.7 hours | |
| Standby | TBA | 427 hours |
Analysis: LG Optimus 3D vs. Google Nexus S
Best Connectivity: Optimus 3D (1-0)
The LG Optimus 3D features 3G/HSDPA/HSPA+ (14Mbps), 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi And Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP. Whereas the Nexus S has 3G/HSDPA (7.2Mbps), 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi And Bluetooth 2.1 with EDR.
Best Size/Weight: Nexus S (1-1)
The Optimus 3D measures 128.8 x 68.0 x 11.9mm. In comparison, the NFC-equipped Nexus S is 123.9 x 63.0 x 10.88mm. The Nexus S is the shorter of the two phones by 4.9mm. As for weightiness, the Optimus 3D is heavier than the Nexus S, tipping the scales at a bulky 168g, compared to the Nexus S’s 129g.
Best Camera/Video: Optimus 3D (2-1)
The Optimus 3D comes packing dual 5MP cameras with autofocus, an LED flash and geotagging. It’s capable of taking stereoscopic photos and videos (720p only); plus 1080p video capture in 2D mode. For video calls and self portraits, there’s also a front-facing camera.
The Nexus S, meanwhile, also sports a 5.0 Megapixel camera (with autofocus, LED flash, geo-tagging, touch focus and 720p video recording). So there’s no real difference in camera quality when you pit one lens against another. It just can’t match its rival’s 3D capabilities. A second camera on the front can be used for video calling.
Best Display: Optimus 3D (3-1)
As for screen size, the LG Optimus 3D features a 4.3-inch (480 x 800) touch-sensitive 3D LCD display. In contrast, the 4.0-inch touch-sensitive Super AMOLED display on Google’s phone is smaller but brighter and more vivid. The screen resolution matches that of the Optimus 3D.
Best Processor: Optimus 3D (4-1)
The 1GHz Dual-Core Dual-Channel processor (a Texas Instruments OMAP4) inside the LG Optimus 3D is a better option than the single-core ARM Cortex A8 ‘Hummingbird’ used in the Nexus S.
Best Software: Nexus S (4-2)
The Nexus S comes with a pure-blooded Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) build, which beats Android 2.2 that is included on the Optimus 3D at launch. That said, the software on LG’s handset has been customised with a 3D UI and will eventually be upgradeable to version 2.3.
Best Storage: Optimus 3D (5-2)
LG’s phone offers better storage options.
Best Battery life: Draw (6-3)
Best Extras: Draw (7-4)
The Optimus 3D also includes GPS/A-GPS, gyroscope, digital compass, stereo FM radio with RDS, DLNA connectivity and an HDMI port. There’s also a 3D Hot Key, which activates five 3D-dedicated UIs, including Gallery, Camera, Game & Apps, YouTube 3D and a 3D Guide.
In comparison, the Nexus S features GPS/A-GPS, haptic feedback vibration, a 3-axis gyroscope, digital compass, a curved ‘Contour Display’ and integrated Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for future digital payments. The Nexus S is also sold unlocked, so it will work with any GSM carrier.
BPF Verdict: The LG Optimus 3D wins!
See if these two phones make our Top 20 Best Smartphones list…



