Lg Q7 Vs Samsung Galaxy A6 Is The Newer Model Really Worth Ditching The A6 For

When choosing between two mid-range smartphones from major brands like LG and Samsung, it's easy to assume that newer automatically means better. The LG Q7 was released after the Samsung Galaxy A6, but does that timeline justify switching from a reliable device like the A6? For users already invested in their current phone, upgrading isn’t just about new features—it’s about whether those upgrades deliver tangible improvements in daily use.

This comparison dives deep into design, display, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, software, and long-term value to determine if the LG Q7 truly outshines the Galaxy A6 or if Samsung’s offering still holds its ground in today’s market.

Design and Build Quality

Both phones adopt minimalist designs typical of their era, but they take different approaches to materials and ergonomics. The LG Q7 uses a polycarbonate body with a matte finish, making it lightweight and comfortable to hold. It also features IP68 water and dust resistance—a rare inclusion at this price point—allowing peace of mind during accidental spills or rainy commutes.

The Samsung Galaxy A6, while sleek with its glass-like back and metal frame, lacks official waterproofing. This becomes a notable disadvantage when comparing durability. However, many users find the Galaxy A6 more visually appealing due to its glossy finish and slimmer profile.

Tip: If you frequently use your phone near water or outdoors, prioritize devices with IP ratings—even mid-range ones like the Q7 offer protection most competitors skip.

In terms of size, the Q7 measures 149.5 x 71.3 x 7.9 mm and weighs 149g, slightly taller than the A6 (149.9 x 70.8 x 7.9 mm, 152g). The difference is negligible, but the Q7’s flatter edges may feel less secure in one-handed grip compared to the A6’s curved sides.

Display Comparison: Brightness vs. Color Accuracy

The LG Q7 sports a 5.5-inch FullVision IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels (FHD+), resulting in a sharp 442 PPI density. Its taller 18:9 aspect ratio maximizes screen real estate without increasing overall footprint. IPS panels are known for wide viewing angles and natural color reproduction, though peak brightness lags behind OLED competitors.

The Galaxy A6, on the other hand, features a 5.6-inch Super AMOLED display with HD+ resolution (720 x 1480). While the pixel density drops to ~282 PPI, the AMOLED panel delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast, and richer colors—ideal for media consumption in low light.

Feature	LG Q7	Samsung Galaxy A6
Display Type	IPS LCD	Super AMOLED
Size	5.5 inches	5.6 inches
Resolution	1080 x 2160 (FHD+)	720 x 1480 (HD+)
PPI	~442	~282
Aspect Ratio	18:9	18.5:9

Despite lower resolution, the A6’s AMOLED screen often feels more vibrant. However, outdoor visibility favors the Q7 thanks to superior brightness calibration. For readers who spend significant time outside, the clarity of text and icons under sunlight can be a deciding factor.

Performance and Software Experience

Under the hood, both phones rely on entry-level processors. The LG Q7 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 435—an octa-core chip built on a 28nm process, paired with 3GB RAM and 32GB storage. Performance is adequate for social media, streaming, and light gaming, but multitasking suffers when too many apps run simultaneously.

The Galaxy A6 uses Samsung’s Exynos 7870, also an octa-core processor with similar clock speeds and efficiency. It comes in 3GB/32GB or 4GB/64GB variants depending on region. Users report smoother animations and quicker app launches on the A6, likely due to Samsung’s software optimizations in TouchWiz (later rebranded as One UI Core).

Software updates tell another story. LG discontinued major Android updates for the Q7 after Nougat (7.1), while Samsung provided up to Android 9 Pie for the A6, along with periodic security patches for longer. Longevity matters—not just for functionality, but for security.

“Even mid-tier phones should receive at least two years of OS updates. Samsung has consistently outperformed LG in post-launch support.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Asia

Camera Capabilities: Real-World Photography

Rear cameras are nearly identical on paper: 13MP f/1.8 on the Q7 versus 16MP f/1.7 on the A6. In practice, the Galaxy A6 pulls ahead in low-light conditions due to its wider aperture and better image processing algorithms. Samsung’s HDR and noise reduction produce cleaner night shots, whereas the Q7 tends to over-sharpen and introduce grain.

Front-facing cameras show a clearer gap. The A6 boasts a 16MP selfie shooter with LED flash and beauty mode enhancements, ideal for social media users. The Q7 settles for 5MP, which captures acceptable daylight selfies but struggles in dim environments.

• LG Q7 Camera Specs: 13MP rear (f/1.8), 5MP front
• Samsung Galaxy A6 Camera Specs: 16MP rear (f/1.7), 16MP front (f/2.0)
• Both support 1080p video recording at 30fps
• No optical image stabilization on either device

In daylight, both phones capture accurate colors and decent detail. But consistency favors Samsung, especially when using auto modes. Portrait mode effects are basic on both, relying heavily on software simulation rather than dual sensors.

Battery Life and Charging

The LG Q7 packs a 3000mAh battery, while the Galaxy A6 offers 3000mAh as well. Despite identical capacity, real-world endurance differs. The Q7 benefits from adaptive brightness and power-saving modes tuned for its efficient IPS panel, lasting a full day with moderate use. Fast charging is absent, requiring around 2 hours for a full charge.

The A6 performs similarly but drains faster during video playback and gaming due to the power-hungry AMOLED display. However, Samsung includes fast charging support—a practical advantage for busy users needing a quick top-up.

Tip: Enable dark mode on AMOLED screens like the A6’s—it reduces power consumption significantly by turning off black pixels.

Mini Case Study: Daily Commuter’s Dilemma

Jessica, a graphic designer in Seoul, owned a Galaxy A6 since 2018. By 2020, she considered upgrading to the LG Q7 after seeing ads highlighting its “cinematic display” and waterproof design. She tested both in-store and took them on trial runs during her commute.

She appreciated the Q7’s brighter screen on sunny mornings and loved being able to rinse it under tap water after spilling coffee. However, she missed the buttery smoothness of Samsung’s interface and found herself missing features like Secure Folder and Samsung Pay Mini. After three weeks, she returned the Q7 and stuck with her A6, opting instead to buy a rugged case and screen protector for added protection.

Her takeaway? Incremental hardware gains don’t always outweigh ecosystem loyalty and user familiarity.

Checklist: Should You Switch from Galaxy A6 to LG Q7?

1. ✅ Do you need waterproof protection? → Q7 wins
2. ✅ Prioritize outdoor screen visibility? → Q7 has brighter IPS
3. ✅ Use your phone for selfies or video calls? → A6’s 16MP front cam is superior
4. ✅ Value long-term software support? → A6 received more updates
5. ✅ Prefer rich, punchy displays for videos? → A6’s AMOLED excels here
6. ✅ Need fast charging? → Only available on A6

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the LG Q7 waterproof?

Yes, the LG Q7 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. The Galaxy A6 has no official water resistance.

Which phone has better battery life?

They have the same 3000mAh capacity, but the LG Q7 generally lasts slightly longer due to optimized power management and a less power-intensive display.

Can either phone run modern apps smoothly in 2024?

Light apps like messaging, email, and browsers work fine on both. However, heavier apps and games may lag due to outdated processors and limited RAM. Neither is ideal for intensive multitasking today.

Final Verdict: Is the Newer Model Worth It?

The LG Q7 brings meaningful improvements—especially its IP68 rating and sharper FHD+ display—but these come at the cost of weaker software support, slower performance tuning, and a less capable front camera. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A6 remains surprisingly competitive with its vibrant AMOLED screen, faster charging, and stronger update history.

If you already own the Galaxy A6 and are satisfied with its performance, upgrading to the Q7 offers minimal real-world benefit. The differences are technical rather than transformative. However, if you're purchasing secondhand or replacing a damaged device, the Q7 makes sense only if waterproofing is a priority.

Rather than chasing \"newer,\" focus on what enhances your actual usage. Sometimes, staying put is the smarter upgrade.

💬 Have experience with either phone? Share your thoughts below—your insights could help someone decide whether to switch or stay.