LG L70 review: KnockOn and gesture controls on a budget
The LG L70 arrived in 2014 as part of LG’s third-generation L Series, positioned between entry-level handsets and more capable mid-range phones. It was designed for buyers who wanted a familiar Android experience, a removable battery, dual-SIM flexibility in selected markets, and a few premium touches without paying flagship prices.
Its headline feature was KnockOn, LG’s double-tap-to-wake and double-tap-to-sleep function. The phone also included practical gesture controls that made everyday actions quicker, such as answering a call by lifting the device to the ear or silencing an incoming call by turning it over.
The hardware was modest even for its era, but the L70’s appeal came from its balance. It offered Android 4.4 KitKat, a compact display, expandable storage, and LG’s useful software additions in a package suited to Indian buyers seeking a dependable affordable smartphone.
Design and display
The LG L70 used a simple plastic body with a removable rear cover and a textured finish that helped keep the phone secure in the hand. Its 4.5-inch screen made it comfortable to operate with one hand, while the relatively thick 9.5mm profile left room for a removable 2,100mAh battery.
The display used an IPS LCD panel with an 800 x 400-pixel resolution. That resolution was ordinary for an affordable phone in 2014, though it could look soft beside the 720p screen on the first-generation Moto G. Text remained readable, colours were generally pleasant, and viewing angles were better than those of many inexpensive TFT panels.
LG kept the front design relatively clean, with capacitive navigation buttons beneath the display and a physical home button. The bezels were not especially narrow, but the compact screen meant the L70 did not feel oversized. The removable back also provided easy access to the micro-SIM slots, microSD card slot, and battery.
KnockOn and gesture controls
KnockOn was the handset’s most memorable feature. A user could tap the screen twice to wake it without reaching for the power button, then tap twice again on an empty area of the home screen or lock screen to turn it off. This was particularly useful when the L70 was resting on a desk or when the user wanted to check notifications quickly.
The feature worked through touch detection while the display was off, although it was not perfect in every situation. Accidental taps could sometimes wake the device, and the phone needed a deliberate rhythm for reliable recognition. Even so, the convenience made the L70 feel more sophisticated than its specifications suggested.
LG also included a selection of motion-based controls. Incoming calls could be answered by lifting the phone toward the ear, while turning the handset face down could mute a ringtone. Some versions and software builds offered additional options for alarms, media, or notifications. These controls were not essential, but they reduced the need to navigate menus for simple tasks.
The software design was another strength. LG’s interface added custom widgets, shortcut controls, and a guest mode that could restrict access to personal content. The L70 ran Android 4.4 KitKat, giving it a relatively modern platform at launch, although buyers should remember that its update path was limited compared with newer devices.
Hardware and daily performance
Under the back cover, the L70 used a dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 processor clocked at 1.2GHz, paired with 1GB of RAM. This configuration was adequate for calls, messaging, email, light web browsing, music playback, and basic social apps. It was not intended for demanding 3D games or heavy multitasking.
The phone usually came with 4GB or 8GB of internal storage depending on the market and model. The available space was considerably lower after Android and LG’s applications were installed, so the microSD card slot was important. A card could hold photos, music, videos, and compatible applications, making the handset more practical for users with limited internal memory.
Performance was acceptable when the phone was used within its limits. Menus could pause briefly, particularly when several applications were open, and complex web pages took time to load. Casual games ran more comfortably than graphics-intensive titles. The L70 rewarded restrained use rather than attempting to compete with quad-core or octa-core phones.
Call quality and network support were well suited to mainstream use. The Indian dual-SIM model appealed to customers managing personal and work numbers or combining two operators to control costs. Depending on the exact variant, connectivity included 3G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and a standard micro-USB port.
Cameras, battery, and software experience
Camera specifications varied by region. Some L70 versions carried an 8-megapixel rear camera, while others used a 5-megapixel sensor. A basic front-facing camera was included for video calls and simple self-portraits. The rear camera could produce reasonable results in daylight, but low-light images were noisy and lacked the detail found on more expensive phones.
The camera application was straightforward, with common settings for flash, exposure, shooting modes, and video. It was suitable for recording occasional family moments or uploading quick social updates. Buyers should check the model number before purchasing because the difference between the 5MP and 8MP versions was meaningful.
The removable 2,100mAh battery was one of the L70’s practical advantages. With moderate calling, messaging, browsing, and occasional media use, it could generally last through a full day. Heavy mobile data use, gaming, or prolonged video playback reduced endurance considerably. A removable battery also allowed users to carry a spare, a feature that was becoming less common on premium smartphones.
The overall Android experience was uncomplicated, though LG’s interface used more storage and memory than a near-stock installation. The phone supported Google Play applications, but limited internal storage meant that regular maintenance was necessary. Removing unused apps and moving media to a memory card helped preserve responsiveness.
| Feature | LG L70 | First-generation Moto G | Nokia Lumia 630 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch period | 2014 | 2013–2014 | 2014 |
| Display | 4.5-inch IPS, 800 x 400 | 4.5-inch IPS, 1280 x 720 | 4.5-inch LCD, 854 x 480 |
| Processor | Dual-core Snapdragon 200, 1.2GHz | Quad-core Snapdragon 400, 1.2GHz | Quad-core Snapdragon 400, 1.2GHz |
| RAM | 1GB | 1GB | 512MB or 1GB, depending on market |
| Rear camera | 5MP or 8MP, variant dependent | 5MP | 5MP |
| Battery | 2,100mAh, removable | 2,070mAh, non-removable | 1,830mAh, removable |
| Expandable storage | Yes, microSD | No on many first-generation models | Yes, microSD |
| Standout feature | KnockOn and gesture controls | Smooth performance and 720p display | Windows Phone interface and colourful design |
How it compared with rivals
The first-generation Moto G was the strongest performance rival. Its Snapdragon 400 processor and 720p display gave it a clear advantage for gaming, browsing, and general smoothness. The L70 answered with a removable battery, microSD expansion, dual-SIM availability, and LG’s gesture features, so the better choice depended on whether convenience or processing power mattered more.
The Nokia Lumia 630 offered a different experience through Windows Phone 8.1. Its interface was clean and fluid, and Microsoft’s operating system was easy to navigate, but its 512MB RAM configuration could restrict application compatibility. The L70 provided access to the larger Android app ecosystem and was more familiar to buyers already using Google services.
Other Indian-market alternatives included the Samsung Galaxy Core series, Micromax Canvas models, and the Xiaomi Redmi 1S when available. Several offered faster processors or sharper displays, while LG benefited from its established service network and recognizable brand. Buyers comparing the L70 with a higher-priced LG device can also see how the company’s approach scaled upward in the LG Nexus 5, which delivered considerably stronger hardware and a cleaner Android experience.
The L70 therefore made the most sense when purchased at a reduced price or through a carrier offer. At its original Indian launch pricing, it faced strong competition from phones offering higher resolution screens and more powerful chipsets. A discount could make its battery access, dual-SIM support, and software convenience more persuasive.
Buying considerations for Indian users
Model numbers matter when shopping for an L70. The D325 dual-SIM version was particularly relevant to India, but regional variations could change the camera resolution, storage capacity, network bands, and bundled accessories. A listing that simply says “L70” may not provide enough information to judge the phone accurately.
Used buyers should inspect the removable battery, charging port, display, and rear cover. A worn battery can be replaced more easily than one sealed inside a modern phone, but replacement quality varies. The touchscreen should respond consistently near the edges, and the microSD and SIM slots should be tested before payment.
Pricing is also important. The handset belongs to the affordable-phone category, where small differences in price can make a newer model a better purchase. A current budget phone guide can help place the L70 against other low-cost options, especially when comparing older stock with newer entry-level Android devices.
Strengths and limitations to weigh
The L70’s strengths remain easy to understand. KnockOn adds genuine convenience, the gesture controls are useful rather than decorative, and the removable battery gives the phone a degree of flexibility that many newer devices lack. Its compact body, dual-SIM variants, microSD support, and familiar Android software also suited everyday Indian usage.
Its limitations are equally clear. The low-resolution display feels dated, the dual-core processor struggles with demanding applications, and internal storage fills quickly. Camera quality is basic, software updates are limited, and the exact experience varies significantly between 5MP and 8MP models.
The phone is best regarded as a practical communication device rather than a multimedia powerhouse. It handles essential applications, calls, messaging, navigation, and light entertainment, but buyers wanting modern games, fast multitasking, sharp photography, or long-term app support should look beyond it.
A sensible buying checklist
Before choosing an LG L70, keep these points in mind:
- Confirm the exact model number, SIM configuration, camera resolution, and supported network bands.
- Check whether the battery is original, swollen, or losing charge unusually quickly.
- Ensure the phone includes a working microSD slot and enough storage for essential applications.
- Test KnockOn, the touchscreen, physical buttons, speaker, microphone, camera, GPS, and charging port.
- Compare the asking price with newer budget Android phones that offer stronger processors and sharper displays.
The LG L70 remains an interesting snapshot of the 2014 budget smartphone market. It did not win through raw specifications, but through small quality-of-life features that made daily use easier. KnockOn gave the phone a distinctive identity, while gesture controls, dual-SIM support, expandable storage, and a removable battery helped it stand apart from specification-focused rivals.
For readers tracking older mobile launches or evaluating a used handset, the L70 is worth examining as a complete package rather than judging by its processor alone. Browse New Mobile Arrivals for more launch details, historical pricing, and practical comparisons before making a buying decision.