Interface and Functionality:
Interestingly enough, the LG Escape is the first AT&T smartphone to feature LG’s latest Optimus UI running on top of Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich. Visually speaking, the cool 3D transition effects in use when navigating the homescreen splashes a bit of character to the interface, but beyond that, there’s nothing particularly attractive about it – since it’s merely offering the usual functionality of any Android device out there. Indeed, it’s far from being the most comprehensive thing out there with its experience, but considering that it’s positioned as an entry-level device, we’re nevertheless humbled by the foundational Android functions that it has to offer.
Again, we’re not too shocked to find that its core organizer apps are not deviating from the usual presentation and functionality. Worth noting, LG’s QuickMemo feature is on board with this one – allowing us to take a screenshot of what we’re doing, doodle on it, and then share it with the usual services. At the same time, however, we can’t complain about the rich set of features it has to offer in the email department, as the Gmail experience itself follows closely to the desktop experience.
Strangely, we find ourselves being a bit more careful with our rate of input when it comes to typing up messages with its on-screen keyboard – especially in portrait. Even though it’s donning a sizable 4.3-inch display, the layout of its stock and LG keyboards feel a bit cramped – albeit, it’s more than responsive with its performance.
In character to say the least, the LG Escape is packaged along with a trove of third party apps – such as Amazon Kindle, Qik Lite, Polaris Office, Video Wiz, Twitter, Facebook, and YPmobile. Right on cue as well, AT&T’s presence is tastefully established with apps like AT&T Code Scanner, AT&T FamilyMap, AT&T Locker, AT&T Navigator, AT&T Ready2Go, AT&T Smart Wi-Fi, AT&T Messages, and myAT&T.
Processor and Memory:
Pricing can be deceiving no doubt, especially with this offering because the LG Escape is actually carrying along some serious hardware under the hood. Specifically, it’s powered by a dual-core 1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor with 1GB of RAM, which is ample enough to handle most operations effortlessly. It’s fast folks, soundly quick to ensure a consistent performance throughout the experience. And on top of that, the benchmark scores show that it’s really up there and that it can tangle with the big boys.
|
Quadrant Standard |
AnTuTu |
NenaMark 2 |
| LG Escape |
5268 |
6830 |
59.8 |
| HTC One S |
4867 |
7012 |
60.7 |
| Samsung Galaxy S III |
5335 |
12016 |
58.6 |
| Samsung Galaxy Nexus |
2000 |
5503 |
24 |
As much as we’re impressed by its processing power, we’re brought back to reality as we find that it’s packing along a paltry 1.84GB of internal storage out of the box. Luckily, that can be supplemented by throwing in a microSD card into its available slot.
Internet and Connectivity:
With 4G LTE connectivity in tow and a hard-working processor ticking away smoothly inside of its body, it simply combines together to present us with a wonderful web browsing experience. In addition to the speedy page loads courtesy of LTE, its processor provides for quick and responsive navigational control to complement the overall experience. For an entry-level smartphone, it’s impressive in this front – even more when its performance matches some high-end devices.
Trips abroad shouldn’t pose an issue with the LG Escape, since it’s a GSM device and all, but if you’re seeking LTE connectivity, you’ll only be able to experience it with AT&T’s network domestically. Meanwhile, it’s outfitted with the usual staple of other connectivity features as well – like aGPS, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi, mobile hotspot, and NFC.