The Google-branded LG Nexus 4 has been out for some time now, and while it's been overshadowed in marketing by newer handsets, the smartphone is still an incredibly relevant buy for those looking for a cheap, unlocked Android smartphone. Here's what reviewers said about the handset when it first launched, and not much has changed since then.
"Sure, the Nexus 4 is not without its hiccups, but none of its predecessors have been perfect, either. And given the boost in real-world performance, the better camera and various other new features, it's even more tempting than all those previous devices whose shoes it's trying to fill. In a case like this... you have our permission not to resist," wrote Engadget.
"It's a truly exemplary piece of hardware that showcases the best of what Google can offer in a smartphone when crufty user interface skins from hardware makers and bloatware from carriers are cut out of the equation," says Wired. "It's as close to perfect as I've seen any Android smartphone get."
"There aren't many (if any) unlocked smartphones that can beat the Nexus 4 in its price range. For its price, the handset offers specs that can handle anything smartphone-related, all while keeping users on the cusp of the latest Android versions," I wrote myself in a review back in April.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception to the Nexus 4, it is important to bear one important thing in mind: the smartphone does not support LTE, and only works on HSPA+ networks, meaning Verizon and Sprint (read: CDMA networks) users here in the States are out of the loop.
As CNET puts it, "While the LG Nexus 4 wins on internal performance and user experience, anyone shopping for an unlocked phone should consider a comparable LTE handset first."
"In the US, a flagship phone without LTE is like a muscle car with no wheels. For other networks in other countries, and for the lucky T-Mobile customers out there that are getting great speeds on its HSPA+ network - great. No problem. Go get this phone. But for others - many others - it's hard to imagine buying this device when you know it's a generation behind in terms of network technology," agreed The Verge.
Overall, the Nexus 4 is incredibly cheap through Google Play, always lands the latest Android first, and still stands the test of time - albeit, it won't be sporting those double digit-megapixel cameras or more than 16GB memory. Those looking for the latest specs and LTE might have to look elsewhere.
Let us know what you think of the Nexus 4 and how it stacks up against the latest batch of smartphones half a year after its release in the comments below.
You can find full specifications for the Nexus 4 here.