SG Round vs. LG Flex

LG G Flex vs Samsung Galaxy Round

Both Samsung and LG are pioneers of what could become a very popular trend very soon, with their respective curved display smartphones. But how do the two compare to each other? Does this increasing focus on form factor lead us to this natural evolution? Are curved displays a good thing? Are they even necessary? Let’s take a quick look at a comparison between the Samsung Galaxy Round and the LG G Flex!

Size

With its larger 6-inch display (compared to the 5.7-inch display of the Galaxy Round), the LG G Flex is definitely the bigger of the two smartphones. This difference in size may be the deciding factor for a lot of consumers, either for or against the G Flex, especially if you’re not used to handling devices of this size.

But, if you’ve caught our unboxing and first impressions videos of the Galaxy Round and the G Flex, you’ll know that the “problem” associated with large display device is mitigated, albeit slightly, because of the curved displays of both these smartphones. Because of the left to right curve of the Galaxy Round, access across the device is somewhat easier because of the curve. Similarly, because of the top to bottom curve of the G Flex, access to the top of the smartphone, whether at the front to open the notification center, or at the back to access the button layout, is also easier. Overall, the curves do allow for easier handling, and if the upward trend in display sizes is to continue, curved displays could play a big role in making life simpler.

Display

As far as the display of both these smartphones are concerned, the difference between the Samsung Galaxy Round and the LG G Flex is obvious. The Galaxy Round features a 5.7-inch AMOLED display with 1080p resolution, resulting in a pixel density of 386 ppi, while the G Flex features a 6-inch Plastic OLED display with 720p resolution, and a pixel density of 245 ppi.

LG’s G Flex design is curved from top to bottom.

Before jumping to pick a winner based on specs, it’s important to note that the display of the G Flex is still quite impressive, and definitely works with the curve. For example, if you’re scrolling up and down a website, you do get the sense that the elements on the screen are bending to the curve, which is really nice. While the curved display of the Galaxy Round is also equally noticeable, the natural feeling is missing, with Samsung relying on the software, such as the side ways scrolling transitions on the homescreens, to provide that illusion.

The Samsung Galaxy Round’s curvature is from side to side

Granted, at the end of the day, if you’re looking for a high resolution display, the Samsung Galaxy Round is the definite choice, but the the 720p display of the G Flex is no slouch either, and should also provide a pleasurable viewing experience.

Software

When it comes to the software, you’re getting familiar versions of the Samsung TouchWiz UI and the LG Optimus UI with their respective smartphones.
TouchWiz remains the same as what we’ve become used to seeing recently, but the Galaxy Round includes some new features that are designed to take advantage of the curve, such as Quick Glance. Tilting the phone opens a small notifications window, which is very cool. Unfortunately, in its current version, there is on occasion a little bit of delay, and you may be better off using some of Samsung’s other staple features, such as Air Gestures, for quick access to what you need.
While limited, the Galaxy Round does take advantage of the curve on the software front, and the LG G Flex is found wanting in this regard. In our first look, there don’t seem to be that many features or functions that make use of the curved form factor of the device. In the case of the LG G Flex, the stand out feature is more on the physical side, with it being possible to flatten the smartphone with some amount of force.