Best LG Smartphones of 2016: A Comprehensive Guide to Top Models and Their Features
Discover the top LG smartphones from 2016, including the flagship LG V20 and the durable LG V10. Learn about their features, design, and why they remain popular today. Perfect for budget-conscious buyers seeking quality phones with advanced capabilities, these models offer great value and reliable performance. Explore options available in the refurbished market and find the perfect device for your needs.

Best LG Smartphones Released in 2016: In-Depth Review of Top Models
The year 2016 was a pivotal period for LG's mobile device lineup, showcasing a series of smartphones that combined innovative features, premium design, and competitive pricing. LG continued to push the boundaries with devices that catered to a broad audience—from tech enthusiasts seeking flagship capabilities to budget-conscious consumers wanting reliable, high-performing smartphones. Despite the rapid evolution of the mobile industry, many LG models from 2016 remain relevant today because of their robust build, advanced features, and affordability. If you're considering purchasing a refurbished or second-hand LG phone from that year, understanding the key models, their specifications, and what makes them stand out can greatly influence your decision.
From flagship powerhouses to budget-friendly options, LG's 2016 lineup offers something for everyone. In this guide, we'll delve into the standout models—highlighting their specifications, design features, and why they have remained popular with users seeking quality smartphones at accessible prices.
LG V20: The Pinnacle of 2016 Smartphone Innovation
The LG V20 stands as one of the most celebrated smartphones from 2016, especially for audiophiles and multimedia enthusiasts. It was notably the first device outside Google's Nexus and Pixel lines to run on Android 7.0 Nougat, which brought significant improvements in multitasking, battery life, and user interface. Designed with a focus on entertainment and productivity, the LG V20 features a robust build, premium materials, and cutting-edge features that keep it relevant even today.
One of its standout features is the integration with Band & Olufsen, offering exceptional audio quality that exceeds typical smartphone sound performance. Whether you're listening to your favorite music, streaming videos, or engaging in voice calls, the V20 delivers crystal-clear sound with depth and clarity. Its powerful Snapdragon processor ensures smooth multitasking and gaming experience, while the QHD display provides vibrant visuals for media consumption. The dual-camera setup—comprising a standard lens and a wide-angle lens—allows users to capture more expansive scenes and create stunning photos, making it a versatile device for photography lovers as well.
Video recording stability is another highlight, thanks to Steady Record 2.0, which minimizes shakes and ensures high-quality video footage during active recording. Despite its release four years ago, the LG V20's sleek design, excellent hardware, and rich feature set maintain its appeal. Pre-owned models are typically available at approximately $329, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a flagship experience at a fraction of the original price. This model is available through major online retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy, where certified refurbished units can be purchased with confidence.
LG V10: A Durable, Versatile 2016 Classic
The LG V10 was designed with durability and innovation in mind, building on the success of LG's earlier G-series and V-series devices. It is renowned for its rugged build quality, featuring stainless steel sides that provide enhanced protection against accidental drops and bumps. Its textured removable back cover improves grip, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The V10 was released at a more accessible price point, offering excellent value for users seeking a premium LG smartphone from 2016 without having to spend a fortune.
Running Android Marshmallow, the V10 included notable features such as a secondary second-screen display, located above the main screen, which allows quick access to favorite apps and notifications. This innovative feature enhances user multitasking, providing seamless access to information without interrupting ongoing tasks.
Security and convenience were also boosted with the incorporation of a rear-mounted fingerprint scanner. The device's IR transmitter turns it into a universal remote control, allowing users to operate TVs and other electronics directly from their smartphone—an added layer of functionality not commonly found in all devices from that time.
Powered by a capable processor and equipped with generous RAM, the V10 delivers smooth performance, reliable connectivity, and excellent multimedia capabilities. It features a dual-camera system, capable of capturing detailed photos with excellent color reproduction, and its removable battery setup offers flexibility unmatched by many modern smartphones. Priced at around $229 on platforms like Amazon and eBay, the LG V10 remains an attractive choice for users valuing durability, practicality, and a broad set of features at an affordable price.
Additional Notable LG Models from 2016
Aside from the two flagship models, LG's 2016 lineup included several other smartphones worth mentioning. The LG G5, for example, was notable for its modular design, allowing users to swap out components like the battery or camera modules for enhanced customization and longevity. The LG X Power and X Style provided budget-friendly options with decent performance and battery life, tailored for consumers who prioritized affordability and basic functionality.
Understanding the features and specifications of these phones helps buyers make informed decisions, especially when considering second-hand or refurbished devices. Many of these models still perform well for everyday tasks, social media, media consumption, and light gaming.
Benefits of Buying a 2016 LG Smartphone Today
Although several years have passed since their release, LG smartphones from 2016 continue to offer several advantages for the right user. These include superior build quality, often better than some recent budget devices, and the availability of high-quality features like dual-camera setups, expandable storage, IR blasters, and removable batteries. For tech enthusiasts and budget-conscious consumers, older LG models can serve as cost-effective alternatives to newer, more expensive devices.
Furthermore, the high availability of refurbished and second-hand units online makes it easier to find models in good condition at significantly reduced prices. They are suitable for use as secondary phones, for specific tasks like media playback, or even as reliable backup devices.
In conclusion, LG’s smartphones from 2016 hold enduring appeal due to their combination of durability, innovative features, and affordability. Whether you're a collector, someone looking for a dependable secondary device, or a budget shopper wanting a premium experience without the steep price, models like the LG V20 and V10 are compelling options to explore.