For users still relying on the LG G7 ThinQ—a solid flagship from 2018—the question of whether to upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy S20 isn’t just about new features. It’s about real-world improvements in speed, camera quality, software support, and overall usability. Released in early 2020, the Galaxy S20 brought significant advancements over its predecessors and competitors. But does that translate into a meaningful leap for someone coming from an older device like the G7 ThinQ?
The answer depends on your priorities: Are you chasing cutting-edge performance, better photography, or simply a longer software lifespan? This article breaks down the key differences between the two phones, evaluates practical benefits, and helps you decide if the upgrade is truly worthwhile.
Performance and Hardware: A Generational Leap
The most immediate difference between the LG G7 ThinQ and the Samsung Galaxy S20 lies in their hardware. The G7 runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845, which was top-tier in 2018 but now struggles with heavier apps and multitasking. In contrast, the Galaxy S20 is powered by the Snapdragon 865 (or Exynos 990 in some regions), delivering up to 30% faster CPU performance and significantly improved GPU efficiency.
This means smoother navigation, quicker app launches, and better handling of graphically intensive games. The S20 also doubles the base RAM (from 4GB to 8GB or 12GB), allowing more background apps to stay active without reloading. For users who frequently switch between social media, maps, messaging, and productivity tools, this upgrade alone can make daily use feel dramatically more fluid.
Display and Audio: Sharper Vision, More Immersive Sound
The display is another area where the S20 pulls far ahead. The G7 ThinQ features a 6.1-inch QHD+ LCD panel with excellent brightness and color accuracy for its time. However, the Galaxy S20 upgrades to a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate—something the G7 lacks entirely.
A higher refresh rate makes scrolling through feeds, browsing websites, and playing games feel noticeably smoother. Combined with HDR10+ support and deeper blacks thanks to AMOLED technology, the visual upgrade is substantial. Additionally, the S20 supports adaptive refresh rate switching (10–120Hz), balancing performance and battery life intelligently.
On the audio front, both phones have front-facing stereo speakers tuned by Quad DAC technology (LG) or AKG (Samsung). While the G7 is still praised for its loud, clear sound, the S20 improves clarity and spatial balance. Both lack a headphone jack, requiring USB-C or Bluetooth headphones.
“Display smoothness and responsiveness are now as important as resolution. A 120Hz screen changes how you interact with your phone.” — David Kim, Mobile UX Analyst
Camera Comparison: From Solid to Flagship-Level
Photography is where the Galaxy S20 truly outshines the G7 ThinQ. The LG device has a capable dual-camera setup: a 16MP super-wide lens and a 16MP standard shooter with f/1.6 aperture. It delivers good daylight photos and unique wide-angle flexibility, but low-light performance and zoom capabilities are limited.
The Galaxy S20 introduces a triple-camera system: 12MP wide, 64MP telephoto, and 12MP ultra-wide. More importantly, it supports 3x hybrid optical zoom and up to 30x digital zoom via “Space Zoom,” powered by AI enhancement. Night mode is vastly superior, capturing brighter, more detailed images in darkness. Video recording jumps from 4K@30fps on the G7 to 8K@24fps on the S20—future-proofing content creation even if few currently use 8K playback.
Selfie quality also improves. The S20’s 10MP front camera supports 4K video and auto-focus, while the G7’s 8MP fixed-focus camera feels outdated by comparison.
| Feature | LG G7 ThinQ | Samsung Galaxy S20 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Cameras | 16MP (f/1.6) + 16MP (super-wide) | 12MP (f/1.8) + 64MP (3x zoom) + 12MP (ultra-wide) |
| Front Camera | 8MP, fixed focus | 10MP, auto-focus, 4K video |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 30fps | 8K @ 24fps, 4K @ 60fps |
| Night Mode | Limited software enhancement | Advanced multi-frame processing |
| Zoom | Digital only | 3x hybrid optical, up to 30x digital |
Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Over Capacity
The LG G7 ThinQ packs a 3,000mAh battery, which was modest even in 2018. With moderate use, it typically lasts a full day, though heavy usage often requires midday charging. The Galaxy S20 steps up to a 4,000mAh battery—a 33% increase—paired with more efficient components and adaptive power management.
In practice, the S20 consistently delivers one-and-a-half to two days of light use or solid all-day endurance under heavy loads. It supports 25W fast wired charging (though many units ship with a 15W charger), 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging—allowing you to power up earbuds or another phone from the back of the device.
The G7 supports Quick Charge 3.0 but lacks any form of wireless charging, making it less convenient in today’s ecosystem of wireless accessories.
Mini Case Study: Daily Use After Upgrade
Consider Mark, a freelance photographer who used his LG G7 ThinQ for four years. He upgraded to the Galaxy S20 primarily for better low-light shots and faster editing performance. Initially skeptical about the need for 120Hz or 8K video, he found himself using the high-refresh screen constantly—especially when reviewing photos on social media. The improved zoom helped him capture distant subjects without carrying extra gear. Most surprisingly, he appreciated reverse wireless charging during travel, topping off his AirPods Pro when outlets were unavailable. Within weeks, the upgrade felt essential rather than optional.
Software and Longevity: Future-Proofing Your Device
One often overlooked factor in upgrade decisions is software support. The LG G7 ThinQ received Android 9 and 10 updates, with security patches ending in 2021. As of 2024, it no longer receives official updates, leaving it vulnerable to emerging threats and incompatible with newer app requirements.
In contrast, the Galaxy S20 launched with Android 10 and was promised four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security patches. It officially supports Android 14 and will likely receive security updates into 2025. This extended lifecycle ensures better app compatibility, enhanced privacy controls, and access to new features like improved voice assistants and AI tools.
FAQ: Common Questions About the Upgrade
Will my LG accessories work with the Galaxy S20?
Most Bluetooth headphones, smartwatches, and cases won’t transfer due to different designs and ecosystems. However, USB-C cables and chargers are compatible, though the S20 benefits from faster PD charging.
Is the price difference justified?
If bought secondhand or refurbished, the S20 can be found for $200–$300, similar to what the G7 cost at end-of-life. Given the massive gains in performance, camera, and software support, the investment pays off for most users.
Can the Galaxy S20 handle modern apps and games smoothly?
Absolutely. Even demanding titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile run smoothly on high settings. Multitasking between streaming, navigation, and communication apps is seamless thanks to ample RAM and optimized One UI.
Checklist: Is the Galaxy S20 Right for You?
- ✅ Need faster performance for apps and gaming
- ✅ Want a sharper, smoother 120Hz display
- ✅ Prioritize better camera quality, especially in low light
- ✅ Value long-term software updates and security
- ✅ Use wireless charging or want reverse charging capability
- ✅ Plan to keep your phone for 2+ years
Conclusion: A Meaningful Step Forward
Upgrading from the LG G7 ThinQ to the Samsung Galaxy S20 isn’t just about having a newer phone—it’s about gaining a significantly more capable, secure, and future-ready device. The improvements in processing power, display technology, camera versatility, and software longevity create a tangible difference in everyday use.
While the G7 was a well-rounded flagship in its era, the S20 represents a true generational shift in mobile experience. If you’re still holding onto your G7 and noticing sluggishness, poor night photos, or app crashes, the S20 offers a compelling solution at a now-accessible price point.
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