It’s official: MediaTek processors are now going mainstream! Sony has done it with a few devices, and here’s one from LG – the G Pro Lite. The device uses a MediaTek chipset (MT6577) and comes with a large screen. The G Pro Lite can be though of as a mildly-powered, low-cost alternative to other pricey phablets. This does not mean you underestimate the power of the dual-core MT6577; the chipset was the first popular low-cost dual core one from China, and with a low price it did offer some great computing strength.
Let us go ahead and dissect the G Pro Lite!
Camera and Internal Storage
Like you must’ve noticed on most Indian and Chinese phones, the G Pro Lite too features an 8MP camera. 8MP is actually the cap for the MT6577, anything more is just interpolation. The 8MP unit should be decent enough to click a photograph every now and then, maybe your Diwali celebrations, your niece’s birthday, etc. However, do not expect SLR like shots on this one. On the front, the phone comes with a 1.3MP unit which again, should suffice for most. Those looking for self-portraits should probably find themselves another phone with a better front camera.
The phone, fortunately, makes a departure from the routine 4GB ROM we’re used to seeing on MediaTek based devices, and comes with 8GB of on-board space. Again, this might not be enough for everyone, but there’s always a microSD card slot which you can engage with a card with capacity of your choice. The G Pro Lite will take microSD cards up to 32GB in size.
Processor and Battery
The highlight of this device is the processor. It comes with the MT6577 which everyone knows about. If you are among the few who doesn’t, here it is: the MT6577 was the budget world’s first cheap dual core processor, made by taiwanese giant MediaTek. The processor runs at a frequency of 1GHz, and cores are built on the Cortex A9 platform providing decent punch. You will be able to execute your favourite utility apps and games (not the latest ones though) with minimal lag. There’s a good 1GB of RAM (which we think is the least you should see in the coming months) which will ensure you are able to multitask efficiently.
The device packs an impressive 3140mAh battery which should last over one full day on moderate usage. Heavy users should probably get one day or a little less on one single charge, which is not bad by today’s standards.
Display and Features
The phone comes with a 5.5 inch screen, and is one for large-screen lovers. Although the resolution isn’t great at 960×540 pixels, you probably get your money’s worth. Also, throwing a full HD resolution would be like injustice to the modest MT6577 chipset. With a large screen and a decent resolution, you can expect the phone to provide a good browsing, multimedia and gaming experience. Of course, if you have gotten used to a higher pixel density than 200ppi, you will probably have a hard time.
The phone will come with Android v4.1.2 installed, which is a bit of a disappointment. You can expect LG to roll out a v4.2 update soon, but nothing like having your new device run the latest version out of the box. The phone comes with 2 mics which will ensure proper noise cancellation during your important calls.
Looks and Connectivity
Nothing much on the looks department. The phone comes with the typical phablet look, which by the way, is not bad at all. The device does stand out a bit with 4 capacitive buttons at the bottom. On the connectivity front, the phone comes with the usual set – WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS/AGPS, 3G, dual SIM, etc. And yes, the G Pro Lite comes with a stylus as well.
Comparison
There are many competitors to this one, however, no manufacturer of the caliber of LG has one in the market yet. Here are devices that might give the G Pro Lite a tough time in the market:
Samsung Galaxy Grand Quattro, Samsung Galaxy Grand Duos, Micromax Canvas Doodle 2 and a number of 5 inch phones from international and domestic vendors.
Key Specs
| Model | LG G Pro Lite |
| Display | 5.5 inches, qHD |
| Processor | 1 GHz dual core |
| RAM | 1GB |
| Internal Storage | 8GB, expandable by up to 32GB |
| OS | Android v4.1.2 |
| Cameras | 8MP/1.3MP |
| Battery | 3140mAh |
| Price | 18,300 INR |
Conclusion
The device does seem like a decent option to other high-priced phablets, and comes with a more than decent battery too. However, priced at 18,300 INR, the phone might be too expensive for a dual-core phablet; devices like the Galaxy Grand Quattro come with quad core processors for the same or lesser cost. If you can wait a few weeks for the price to drop, the device might be a viable option. However, at 18,300 INR it won’t be a wise decision to get a dual core device in this day and age. You can look at other options in the market, or wait for the price to drop if you are awestruck by the LG G Pro Lite.
