In 2017 and 2018, two smartphones emerged with distinct philosophies. Apple’s iPhone X redefined the iOS experience with Face ID, an edge-to-edge OLED display, and a minimalist design language that influenced years of future iPhones. Meanwhile, LG’s V40 ThinQ arrived in late 2018 as a bold Android alternative—packed with triple rear cameras, a secondary front display, and audiophile-grade sound. While both devices are now considered legacy models, their comparison remains relevant for buyers exploring used or refurbished flagships. So, nearly five years later, does the iPhone X still hold up against the more feature-rich LG V40?
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone X introduced a glass-and-stainless-steel sandwich that felt premium and solid in hand. Its symmetrical bezel-less design, combined with the absence of a home button, marked a turning point in Apple’s industrial design. The build quality remains excellent, with IP67 water and dust resistance—meaning it can survive brief submersion in up to one meter of water.
In contrast, the LG V40 adopted a more functional approach. It features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame and also carries an IP68 rating—slightly better than the iPhone X—allowing it to withstand deeper water exposure for longer durations. What sets the V40 apart is its dual-screen setup: a secondary 2.1-inch OLED on the front cover enables glanceable notifications and quick interactions without opening the phone. While innovative, this second screen increases bulk and power consumption.
Display and User Experience
The iPhone X’s 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display was groundbreaking at launch. With a resolution of 2436x1125 pixels and a pixel density of 458 PPI, colors were vibrant, blacks were deep, and text appeared razor-sharp. Apple’s color calibration and True Tone technology ensured accurate viewing across lighting conditions.
The LG V40’s 6.4-inch P-OLED panel is larger and slightly higher in resolution (3120x1440), resulting in even finer detail. Its taller 19.5:9 aspect ratio maximizes screen real estate, ideal for media consumption. However, despite the technical edge, some users found LG’s default color profile oversaturated out of the box. Thankfully, multiple display modes allow tuning to preference.
iOS on the iPhone X delivers smooth animations, consistent app performance, and long-term software support. Even today, many iPhone X units run iOS 16, a testament to Apple’s update policy. On the other hand, the V40 launched with Android 8.1 and received updates only up to Android 10. This limited lifespan reduces its appeal for users who value security patches and new OS features.
Camera Capabilities: Innovation vs Consistency
The iPhone X features a dual 12MP rear system—one wide, one telephoto—capable of 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode with advanced depth sensing. Apple’s image processing prioritizes natural color reproduction, reliable HDR, and excellent low-light performance through Smart HDR. Video recording stands out with 4K at 60fps and superior stabilization.
The LG V40 takes a different route: three rear cameras (wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto) and dual front shooters (standard + wide-angle). This gives photographers flexibility—especially the ultra-wide lens, which captures 107 degrees, perfect for landscapes or group selfies. LG’s Cine Log profile appeals to mobile videographers seeking flat color grading for post-processing.
However, hardware diversity doesn’t always translate to better results. The V40’s photo processing can be inconsistent—sometimes over-sharpened or lacking dynamic range compared to Apple’s tuned algorithms. The iPhone X produces more predictable, social-media-ready images with minimal user input.
“While multi-lens setups offer versatility, consistent tuning and computational photography often matter more than sheer sensor count.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMARK (2018)
Performance and Software Longevity
Under the hood, the iPhone X runs Apple’s A11 Bionic chip—a 64-bit hexa-core processor with a dedicated neural engine. Even by 2024 standards, it handles everyday tasks like web browsing, messaging, and HD video playback smoothly. Apps launch quickly, and multitasking remains fluid due to iOS optimization.
The LG V40 uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845, a top-tier Android chipset in its time. It performs well in benchmarks and supports demanding games and AR applications. But Android’s fragmented ecosystem means background app management isn't as refined as iOS, leading to occasional stutters or slower app reloads after being suspended.
Software support is where the gap widens significantly. Apple supported the iPhone X with major iOS updates for five years—from iOS 11 to iOS 16. Most apps still optimize for older iPhones, meaning continued compatibility. LG discontinued major OS updates for the V40 after Android 10, and security patches ceased entirely by 2021. For anyone using the phone daily, this poses real risks.
| Feature | iPhone X | LG V40 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2017 | 2018 |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | Snapdragon 845 |
| Rear Cameras | Dual 12MP (Wide + Telephoto) | Triple 16MP+16MP+12MP (Ultra-wide, Wide, Telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 7MP TrueDepth | Dual 8MP + 5MP (Standard + Wide) |
| Software Support | iOS 11–iOS 16 (5 years) | Android 8.1–Android 10 (2.5 years) |
| Battery Capacity | 2,716 mAh | 3,300 mAh |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP68 |
| Audio Features | Stereo speakers | Quad DAC, Hi-Fi audio support |
Battery Life and Audio Excellence
The iPhone X’s smaller battery (2,716 mAh) is offset by iOS efficiency. In real-world use, it lasts about 10–12 hours of mixed usage. Fast charging is supported but requires a separate adapter (not included in-box). Wireless charging works seamlessly with Qi pads.
The LG V40’s 3,300 mAh battery provides noticeably longer endurance—often stretching into a second day with light use. It supports both wireless and fast charging. But the standout feature is audio: the Quad DAC delivers rich, distortion-free sound, especially when paired with high-impedance headphones. Audiophiles still praise the V40 for its headphone output quality, something Apple abandoned with the removal of the 3.5mm jack.
Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma
Sarah, a freelance photographer, needed a reliable secondary phone for client meetings and casual shooting. She considered both the iPhone X and LG V40 in the refurbished market. After testing both, she chose the V40 for its triple-camera flexibility and superior audio during podcast interviews. However, within six months, outdated apps began crashing, and Android security warnings appeared frequently. She eventually switched back to an iPhone SE (2nd gen), citing reliability and peace of mind as decisive factors.
Her experience reflects a broader trend: while the V40 offers compelling features on paper, real-world usability degrades faster due to software obsolescence.
Checklist: Choosing Between iPhone X and LG V40
- ✅ Need long-term software support? → iPhone X
- ✅ Prioritize camera consistency over lens variety? → iPhone X
- ✅ Want better water resistance and audio fidelity? → LG V40
- ✅ Use wired headphones regularly? → LG V40
- ✅ Value compact size and iOS ecosystem? → iPhone X
- ✅ Looking for cutting-edge features regardless of longevity? → LG V40
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPhone X still usable in 2024?
Yes. While no longer receiving major updates, the iPhone X runs iOS 16 and supports most current apps. Performance remains adequate for daily tasks, though intensive apps or games may show limitations.
Why did the LG V40 fail to gain popularity?
Despite strong specs, the V40 suffered from poor marketing, rapid software abandonment, and stiff competition from Samsung and Google. Its niche features didn’t resonate broadly, and LG eventually exited the smartphone market in 2021.
Which phone holds resale value better?
The iPhone X retains value significantly better. Even today, used units sell at higher prices than the V40, thanks to brand loyalty, ecosystem lock-in, and longer usability.
Final Verdict: Is the iPhone Still Worth It?
The LG V40 is undeniably a hidden gem—especially for enthusiasts who appreciate experimental design, superior audio, and multi-lens photography. It pushed boundaries in ways few phones dared. Yet, its short software lifespan and declining app compatibility undermine its practicality.
The iPhone X, while less flashy, exemplifies Apple’s philosophy: balanced innovation with long-term reliability. Five years of updates, seamless iCloud integration, robust app support, and consistent camera performance make it a smarter choice for most users—even today.
If you're buying used or recommending to someone cautious about tech investments, the iPhone X remains the safer, more sustainable option. The V40 earns admiration for ambition, but the iPhone wins on enduring value.
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