Gadget review: LG Nexus 5X

At first, 5X’s plastic frame is annoying. But give it time, and the tends to grow on you.

This year, Google added two top-end smartphones to its ever-growing portfolio - the LG Nexus 5X and Huawei Nexus 6P. Both caused quite a buzz for being among the first few devices to feature the latest Android OS, Marshmallow. We had a chance to see if the 5X lives up to its reputation. Here's how it stacked up:

What's good: At first, the phone's plastic frame is annoying. One would imagine that a device that officially costs ₹31,990 would come with a sleeker, more solid construction. But give it time, and 5X tends to grow on you. You realise that the plastic helps reduce the device's overall weight. In fact, it is probably the lightest of all Nexus phones. Also, at 5.2 inches, it is smaller than most jumbo phones making it easy to carry around.

The other major plus is that the phone comes with a clean version of Android's operating system. The Marshmallow update brings with it new features. For example, you scroll through apps vertically instead of horizontally, and there are stricter rules for apps to access personal information. There's also Tap that lets you perform a Google search without interrupting what you're already doing.

For added security, the 5X comes with a fingerprint sensor, which is surprisingly accurate and fast. You could unlock the phone, purchase apps from Google Play, or bring the screen to life with a tap.

The 12.3MP camera clicks decent images, though quality dips in low-light conditions. Multiple apps don't hamper the performance and multitasking is a breeze. The pricing helps, as one can end up with a top-of-the-line model, for a little over ₹30,000.

What's not: The biggest drawback is the battery life. This is an issue nearly every Nexus user complains about, and will continue to do so with this device. Initially lasting a day and a half, the battery life drains after a couple of apps are downloaded. Soon, we had to charge it twice a day.

The other issue is the terrible quality of the front-speaking speakers. Also, for the price, the device feels and looks a little tacky.

Verdict: The phone is perfect for someone looking for a top-end model which offers a pure Android experience, decent performance and is value for money. But be ready to keep the battery charger handy.

Quick specs

What: LG Nexus 5X

At a glance: 5.2-inch device with a 12.3MP camera, runs on Android 6.0

Best buy: ₹28,899 onward on flipkart.com

USP: Lightweight, value for money