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LG G8S Thinq 128GB 4GX (128GB/6GB) Black (Telstra Branded, Network UNLOCKED) $499 Free C&C/ $4.99 Delivery @ JB Hi-Fi

1000

Good price considering the spec, dropped AUD value, and that it's on parity with V40's ongoing lowest price, and arguably better than the previous deal's $99+OneMonthCharge+$390BreakContractFee strategy

The model is LM-G810EA, Telstra branded, network UNLOCKED. Here is the official manual if anyone is interested: http://gscs-b2c.lge.com/downloadFile?fileId=36uYwtIy1L7NG5p9…

NOTE: While claiming to be dual SIM and having two SIM slots in specification, it is reported (thanks pete2) to only have single SIM working. The Telstra branded device is actually a SINGLE SIM variant, with the hybrid SIM/microSD Slot 2 really being just a microSD slot.

Spec copied from JB HiFi (or official spec here):

Phone Operating System Android
Phone Type LG G8S Thinq
Network compatibility 4G
Dual SIM (nano-SIM/nano-SIM) Yes [This is actually not accurate, see above NOTE]
Colour Black
Device screen size (inches) 6.2
Resolution (Pixels) 2248 x 1080
Display type OLED
Touchscreen Yes
Internal memory 128GB
Expandable memory up to 2TB
Expandable memory format Micro SD card
Battery capacity (mAh) 3550
Processor Model Number Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855
RAM (GB) 6
Rear Cameras (MP) 12MP + 12MP Wide + 13MP Telephoto
Front camera (MP) 8MP
Built-in flash Yes
Face detection Yes
Movie recording Ultra HD
GPS Yes
USB (Type-C) Port 1.0
NFC Yes
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Bluetooth v5.0
Manufacturer's warranty 2 Years

While not mentioned in the JB HiFi spec above, it does have 3.5mm headphone jack, wireless charging, and is IP68 certified. It does NOT have the quad DAC.

Related Stores

JB Hi-Fi
JB Hi-Fi

closed Comments

  • +3

    v40 is better if u are after a phone with dac

    • +1

      Is this better than g8s overall of you for don't care about dac?

      • +6

        The G8s has a newer processor (SD855) and larger 3550 mAh battery than the v40.
        Dimensions are similar, but G8s is a bit wider and 12g heavier, v40 is a bit taller.
        v40 has a higher resolution screen, and has a proper DAC.

        Heres a comparison of the two phones.
        https://www.kimovil.com/en/compare/lg-g8s-thinq,lg-v40-thinq

        Review of G8s
        https://www.notebookcheck.net/LG-G8S-ThinQ-Smartphone-Review…

        I think both phones have good cameras, wireless charging, IP68, dual SIM and SD Card slot, headphone jack, B28 and NFC - so both fit the bill for me.

        I want togive the G8s a go as an upgrade from the v30+, as I have been having problems with Telstra calls recently, and the G8s has VoLTE on Telstra, although I would like to look at the screen on one in store first.

        • +1

          Update: single sim only.

        • My V30+ has VoLTE. I think the G8S is better in some aspects (processor, camera etc) but worse in others (no DAC, single sim?)

          • +1

            @whitelie: Yes, it depends on what is important for your use.
            Both handsets (v30+ and the G8s) have VoLTE, IP68, Headphone Jack, Bluetooth 5, NFC, glass/alloy construction.

            The G8s has newer tech - its CPU and camera quality are significantly better than the v30+, it has a 7.5% bigger battery and will be updated to Android 10 in Q3 this year (v30 will not be getting it).

            However, the G8s has a lower resolution screen, it is bulkier and feels bigger in the hand and is a little more difficult to use one handed. It is heavier by 23g, thicker, wider and taller. It is strange that the much older v30+ has narrower bezels to have more screen width than the G8s in a narrower body.

            When placed next to the v30, to me the G8s lacks the design finesse of its sibling. Finally, the G8s has a huge notch which looks a bit over the top, and cannot be un-seen.

            • +3

              @[Deactivated]: Notches will be a stain on the early 20's. I'll now be involved in history.

              I will be searching for 'hide notch' as a first step.

    • The dac matters only when wired, right?

      • +2

        Yes

        • Also with a Gd ear phones, not what comes in box

    • +1

      The G8 also has the quad DAC…and yes, only works with a wired connection.
      They're very similar phones.

      • +2

        Yeah.. at least it still has the Headphone jack.. unlike the other two main competitors.. USB-C headphones suck

      • +7

        The G8 has quad DAC but this is the G8S, which doesn't.

        • Oh good pick up! I'd go the V series in that case.

        • See my post below. Would love to confirm because I'd buy it if it has the DAC

    • Is it confirmed that the AU version has no DAC? Because the UK version has the Quad DAC. Conflicting information eg.
      https://www.gadgetguy.com.au/product/lg-g8s-thinq-all-smartp…

      • +3

        I reckon they've got that wrong tbh. The UK LG website doesn't mention quad dac either:

        https://www.lg.com/uk/mobile-phones/lg-LMG810EAW

      • +3

        This AU G8S (LMG810EA) does not have the Quad DAC.

        Even the UK LMG810EAW model mentions only "32-bit Hi-Fi DAC" (on the UK website under product spec), which is more of a generic marketing term (?) but at the very least not the same as the Quad DAC.

        • I am disappoint but thanks for the clarification Planet and zrmx

        • The "32 bit Hi-Fi DAC" is definitely just marketing. It just refers to the onboard audio codec on all Snapdragon 855 processors: https://www.qualcomm.com/products/wcd9340

          It's good but definitely not up to the standard of the Quad DAC.

  • So can only use Telstra with this? What if I want to use Optus sim?

    Or Oppo Reno Z $368 deal? Need to think…

    • +5

      It clearly says "unlocked"

      • +1

        Thanks, haven't bought a new phone in years.

    • +3

      TLDR: You can use Optus (and all others non-Telstra network) SIM with it.


      Network unlocked, but Telstra branded.

      • Thanks. Seriously considering this!

        • +4

          This is way better than Reno Z

  • +3

    Thanks… been toying for ages with buying this from goodguys for around $700 but couldn't justify it - so this was exactly the bargain I needed to replace my long suffering but very hard-working LG G6.

  • +2

    Very good deal this has been hovering around $700 AUD , 500 is a big genuine discount.

  • I have the G7 Thinq, the previous model. Ripper phone. Very impressive hardware, speedy, bright screen and the camera is very good — and the video part of that is excellent. Even the 'boom box' sound thingo works.
    The G8 is similar is size and spec, but with faster processing and a few other bits. Not sure about gesture controls tho…
    Very happy with my G7, but if I had something less, I would jump on the G8 at this price in a heartbeat.

  • This is an awesome deal. I bought a G7 for my wife recently (under $400) but would definitely have grabbed this if it was around at the time.

  • +2

    Great little phone, note there are zero aftermarket cases unless you buy from AliExpress
    I use an iPhone XS Max screen protector from KMart, $7, covers the entire front, and leave the sensor bar open, there's a slight 2mm halo around the bottom.
    Listened to my Focal Elears on this {thanks Ozbargains!} Sound pretty good (I'm sure DAC would be even better)

    Finally I've noticed the V50 stock appears to have been passed over to JB to clear, hoping to see a deal on that in next few weeks . .

    • +2

      Ooo thanks for the heads up on V50 interested…

      • +2

        Hey, V50's up for $599 on JB's site, get in quick

    • +1

      Do you know if a case still fits even while using the iPhone XS Max glass protector?

      • +2

        Case fits with the iPhone XS max glass protector.

    • I got one back in December from TGG when they were doing the $65 plan with it.

      I made the mistake of ordering a couple of cases from AliExpress before opening the box, only to find that they do actually supply a case as part of the package. That's probably why it's difficult to locate cases.

  • I was wondering whether the G8s has an SD card slot.
    Update: yes, "Slot for SD or second SIM card"
    according to
    https://www.kimovil.com/en/where-to-buy-lg-g8s-thinq

    • +1

      You can buy a $1 sim thingy from eBay to use two sims and micro SD at the same time. I have been having dual sim plus micro-SD on my LG phones for years.

    • Update - this model doesnt support dual SIM

  • This or samsung a71 / a90?

  • +3

    I can't wrap my head around what LG was thinking making 3 G8 models… Is this just a straight up worse G8?

    • +3

      pretty much. its a G8 but with a 1080p screen instead of 1440 and no quad DAC.

      i think LG has given up on australia as a phone market. shame, because their V60 looks tasty.

      • Yeah the V60 is super tempting but I couldn't fit it in my pocket is the deal-breaker.

        I would've been keen on a G8 for $499 (I have a G6) but it also sounds the G8s has worse cameras and also worse software support the G8 is on Android 10 and the G8s isn't expected to get 10 until Q3…

        • +1

          Yea basically LG gave it a telephoto camera and then in exchange took a few trade-offs. While the other cameras are slight downgrades compare to the G8, they are still very good cameras in the upper/premium mid-range phones, and at least on par or better than previous gens. While this would be a deal-breaker in a flagship charging flagship prices, but now it has dropped to its current price, it's much more forgivable. Personally I don't mind the lower resolution screen, considering it'll actually use less power, and it still has all those standards certification for good colour reproduction accuracy, an OLED panel which means the Dark Mode in upcoming Android 10 update should give it extra power saving.

          While G8S will be slower in getting Android 10, considering it is same gen as G8, it should still get same amount of updates down the road (unless if LG want to abandon EU market as well, as they also got the G8S). While slower, Q3 is the same quarter, but accounting for delays and current outbreak situations, more likely towards end of the year rather than 6 months for Android 10.

          • +1

            @zrmx: Oh yeah great phone for $499 if I was actually in need of the upgrade I would take it just annoying LG messes around the way they do with region models and to me cameras and software are the main points so these being kinda downgrades on the G8 makes it less of a must have buy

            • @[Deactivated]: oops was supposed to reply to xyron, but yea I agree with you.

        • Same. After seeing the V60, I wanted to go for the G8X, and it turns out that's not going to be sold in AU…

        • Q3, then 6 months later again when Telstra finally releases the Telstra version of the software. They are so slow with releases.

  • +1

    Battery life can't be good with only 3550mah battery.

    • How many hours of SOT is good?

    • I would disagree with that. My phone has 4050mah and I could get two days out of it if I needed.

    • +1

      It depends on the user's usage behaviours. Considering the screen is only 1080p and the OLED panel taking advantage of Dark Modes in apps, it can be quite capable of lasting a day. Although harder to predict if one constantly uses the phone during stay-at-home periods.

    • Battery life is one reason I'm hesitant to get another LG phone. I'm also not impressed with LG Australia customer service, particularly software updates. If they improve those two (or project treble happens), I'll reconsider getting another LG phone.

  • decent price..

  • +1

    What is Telstra branded? Is it just Telstra logo when you switch on the phone?

    • +1

      Yep thats about it, and that warranty might go through Telstra (after bringing it in to JB) rather than through JB's third party network

      • +2

        updates might take bit longer and some junk apps builtin.

    • I cannot see any Telstra logo switching the phone on, and none on the box or phone - just two Telstra apps that can be uninstalled.
      This is the least Telstra branded "Telstra" phone I have seen.

    • Telstra ROM , meaning you’d need to wait for them to test and release any upgrades.
      It’ll have the Telstra 24/7 app built in too and tweaks to the radios to suit T better.

  • Awesome deal, thx Op!

  • Just ordered click and collect. What is difference between telstra variant and normal? Late question but wanted to know before going to store so that if locked or something limitation then would cancel at store. :D

    • +1

      Telstra branding means it'll likely be loaded with Telstra related services/apps (usually uninstallable), and Telstra flash screen when powering on the phone. Hopefully we won't need to depend on Telstra to release firmware updates.

      It is making me to believe LG only ever released a Telstra branded handset in Australia, as its official product webpage only lists "TELSTRA(AUSTRALIA)" for product manuals (https://www.lg.com/au/support/support-mobile/lg-LMG810EA#man…).

  • -1

    Here is the official manual if anyone is interested: http://gscs-b2c.lge.com/downloadFile?fileId=36uYwtIy1L7NG5p9…

    people still read manuals?

    • +1

      lol, in case if anyone needs to check the presence of any functions etc. I still read manuals for things that I'm not familiar with (e.g. car, dash cams, pressure cooker etc).

  • +10

    Update - the phone is made in Korea, comes with a 16W LG charger, clear TPU case and basic LG earbuds.
    The phone comes with Android 9 software version 10a, but updates over the air to 10b.
    Home screen has a Telstra group on the homepage with My Telstra and Air apps, which can be uninstalled.
    There is no Telstra branding on the box, the handset exterior, or on startup splash screen.

    • Uninstalled or just disabled?

      • +1

        I think they can be uninstalled, when checking app into, there is the option to uninstall.

        • Thanks

  • Okay committed, replacing our phones at home with this. I've loved my G6, and sad to be dropping screen resolution but otherwise everything looks great with the G8S.

    Now to find a local glass screen protector…

    • +1

      See my comments above . .

      • Awesome thanks. Extremely hard to find g8s screen protectors, but iphone xs max protectors are a dime a dozen. Taken a punt on some cheap ones on ebay.

  • I was eyeing off the mi9t and missed the JB deal. Now my oneplus 5t is broken (smashed in the car door)
    Should I get this?

  • Oddly, I think I still prefer the v30+

    • Older tech fetish?, for 100 more than the usual v30 offering this seems to be a much stronger deal.

      • +1

        My reasoning is the screen, weight and dimensions.
        The screen is more pleasant, and less stressful to look at IMO - the v30 has less PWM effect from 43-100% brightness so better for me, has smaller bezels, higher resolution, a wider screen in a narrower body and no notch.
        The dimensions are narrower, shorter and thinner, 12g lighter making it easier to hold and use one handed.
        The wider aspect means text is easier to read and e.g. the pattern lock is a nicer size, and the enormous notch on the G8s means notifications are tiny, and only have a limited area to use.
        Snapdragon 835 still usable - I just wish the wide/normal G8 cameras, battery, 6G of RAM and 855 CPU could be put in the v30 package, to make my ideal phone.

        In the meantime I will run Oled Saver to see if it fixes the PWM. If it doesnt, it is going straight on to Gumtree….

        • Is there a glaring and noticeable difference between the two screens? Im thinking about getting this phone but I want the screen to be on par with my v30+.

          • +4

            @robroxas171: The screen on the G8s is bright, clear and vivid.
            If you're affected negatively by screen PWM, it is much more noticeable on the G8s e.g. if you wave your hand between the phone and your eyes, you will notice the strobe effect, which is not there mostly on the v30(above ~40%).
            Colors generally look good, but text on webpages is smaller on the G8s as the screen is narrower.

            Here is a comparison side by side.
            G8s on left, v30 on right
            https://imgur.com/a/eFCi3Cs

            • @[Deactivated]: Oh wow thanks! Im not really too bothered by PWM; in fact, a bright clear and vivid screen is what im looking for. I was just wondering if the 1080 vs 1440 was a huge gap in terms of picture clarity.

              • @robroxas171: No problem.
                Regarding the resoution, if you zoom you can see some slight aliasing in the G8s (the slightly diagonal stripes in the white background) I think due to the larger pixels, but I dont think you notice with the naked eye.
                Actually, out of the case, the v30 feels much nicer to hold IMO, the G8s feels rather chunky and heavy by comparison.
                Anyhow, seems Oled saver is presently doing the trick for me, so I will continue my testing for now.

                • @[Deactivated]: Yeah on the v30 you cant see any pixels at all even if you zoom in. Its funny how they would give a phone a subpar screen compared to a model 3 years ago and expect people to pay close to $1000. Anyway, based on your assesment im still inclined to think this is a good deal. No way for $700 but for $500 I think its worth it. The processor and better camera makes up for the screen. Off to JB i go!

                  • +1

                    @robroxas171: Yeah, the CPU is great, the phone is very smooth to use so far. The v30 remains my fave though, it has been going strong since early 2018 for me.
                    The G8s camera takes very nice photos from my first impression.
                    The pixel clarity could also be out of focus issues etc from my handheld photo with an old Olympus EM10…..

                    • @[Deactivated]: I’m still using a v20.
                      I love the phone, really like the second screen up top.

                      But maybe it’s getting time for a new phone.

        • Oh Bum I was about to buy one but Im not keen after reading your review. Thanks for the info.

  • Awesome deal!!

  • +1

    This or a little more for the the s10 or pixel 4/xl

    • +1

      Well its not really a little more at this price…

    • Pixel 4xl is over $1000, this is $499.

      • Pixel 4xl (128gb} is $719 from Vodafone

      • did you see the deal from earlier around 500ish

        • For the 4xl or just the 4?

    • Thinking the same about the pixel 4xl..

  • This seems better than the mi 9t deal even though a bit more expensive.. Might have to pull the trigger on this one!

    • I'd say so, LG is a better brand and my 9t has a few niggles with the software. Coming from a galaxy which was flawless during first 2 years of ownership.

  • +2

    Are there any tricks to getting the dual Sim working?

    Purchased this phone from JB hi-fi macq Park today (was assured it was dual Sim) but can only see one of the two Sims.

    • I've just decided to return them now. No dual SIM means it's not good for me

  • Is it worth to upgrade from G7 ThinQ?

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