April 22, 2014

LG 306G Tracfone Review

Full Review of the LG 306G from Tracfone

This review by TracfoneReviewer will cover the features, specs, likes and dislikes, and buying tips for the LG 306G.
LG 306G Review
Full Review of the LG 306G

Tracfone Wireless is a prepaid cell phone company providing low cost phones and minutes to customers throughout the US. They have a variety of phones, including Android smartphones (See our reviews of these phones on our Cell Phone Reviews page).


The LG 306G is a relatively new (2014) offering from Tracfone that features a touchscreen, WiFi, Triple Minutes for life and runs on GSM networks. (We will cover more about the GSM network further down).

It is similar to the very popular LG 840G, but a few years newer. Both phones use a non-Android OS and are a somewhat small size compared to other phones.

Let's take a look at the detailed features for the LG 306G.

LG 306G Features and Specs

This phone comes with all the standard features you expect from a non-Android phone.

  • WiFi Capability
  • GPS Connectivity
  • 5 Customizable Home Screens
  • 2MP Camera
  • Mobile Web with 3G Speeds
  • Text and Picture messaging
  • 4GB Micro SD Card (up to 32GB Compatible)
  • Bluetooth
  • MP3 Player
  • Gravity Sensor (tilt sensor)
  • 1000 Entry Phonebook
  • Handsfree speaker
  • Alarm Clock
  • Call Waiting, Caller ID, Voicemail, Voice Recorder
Specs and Dimensions
  • 3.2" Touchscreen
  • Size: 4.08" x 2.47" x 0.47" (inches)
  • Weight: 3.72 OZ
  • Battery: 3 Hours talk time, 17 days on Standby

The features and specs for the LG 306G are comparable to other Tracfone devices like the LG 530G, Samsung S390G or, as we mentioned already, the LG 840G.

The key features for this phone are GSM network, touchscreen, WiFi and Triple Minutes. Let's get into what we like, and don't like, about the LG 306G to break it down a little further.

LG 306G Review - Likes and Dislikes

Starting with what we Like:
LG 306G Review tracfone
Apps on the LG 306G

The LG 306G is similar to the LG 840G which was a very popular phone for Tracfone users. Thus, the LG 306G has many of these same great features.

WiFi access, 3G speed, and the 3.2" touchscreen are all very nice to have. The touchscreen is fairly bright and responsive. The phone also has 5 home screens which you can customize.

Battery life on the LG 306G is good, especially compared to smartphones. It should last a few days with moderate use, and even a week with light use (it is advertised to last 17 days on standby).

The phone comes with a 4GB Micro SD card which you can put music on, or use to store pictures etc. For those who want to put a lot of stuff on the phone, you can upgrade your SD card to up to 32GB.

We like that the LG 306G does not use the new '3 buckets' system for minutes, but rather the older option where you have minutes from one pool used for data, texting and calling. (If you would rather have separate pools for data, texts and calling, take a look at the Android smartphones.) This is the same way the LG 840G worked. Basically, if you do a lot of texting this is a better option for you. And this phone also comes with Triple Minutes for Life, so every time you add minutes they will be tripled.

The LG 306G uses the GSM network, probably running on AT&T cell phone service. All of the new Android smartphones use CDMA networks, which are Verizon towers. So if Verizon service isn't very good in your area, you should go with a GSM phone like the LG 306G (but make sure AT&T service is good in your area). To check, try asking your friends or neighbors, or enter your zip code on the Tracfone website. (for more on these networks, read our GSM vs CDMA Guide.)

Lastly, this phone will work with Tracfone Promo Codes! Unlike the Android smartphones Tracfone offers.

Now for a few dislikes.

LG 306G Dislikes
This phone is a pretty solid device that doesn't seem to have any big dislikes, but also doesn't really 'wow' in any areas either.

The lack of a main operating system like Android is a little disappointing. With Android OS you have access to thousands of apps. With the LG 306G, there are apps available, but not as many. We would recommend Opera Mini, which is a great app for browsing the internet.

The LG 306G isn't a new phone, even though it is new to Tracfone. So don't expect too much from it. There are a variety of quirks, such as the phone switching to landscape mode for texting, but if you don't mind things like this it is a good option.

The 2MP camera is not great, but that is to be expected for a phone like this.

If you find any problems with your LG 306G, let us know in the comments so we can mention them here.

Also, if you want more information, be sure to check out the full user guide linked below.

Overview and Buying Options for the LG 306G

Overall, the LG 306G is similar to the LG 840G, which isn't a bad thing, unless you are looking to upgrade from the LG 840G (in which case we would suggest a smartphone like the LG Optimus Dynamic II).
LG 306G tracfone review
LG 306G

The LG 306G is a simple, durable phone that will get the job done and won't be as bulky as most smartphones. It is a great choice for people who want something at a reasonable price, and don't need all the latest features. Overall, we like this phone. It isn't too fancy, but works well and has most of the features you would need for a cell phone.

For Tracfone customers, this is a pretty standard Tracfone device, and would make a good upgrade if you have an older phone, especially if you only have double minutes for life.

Where to find the LG 306G from Tracfone
You can find the LG 306G on the Tracfone website, currently selling for $50.

Dollar General among other stores is also selling this phone usually for a bit less.

There are sometimes some great bundles with this phone on HSN.com or ShopHQ.com.

We have also found the LG 306G on Amazon for less than $40.

Additional Resources and LG 306G User Guide
Take a look at the interactive LG 306G Tutorial to help you learn how to navigate this phone. Or you might want the 100 page LG 306G User Guide (PDF).

We hope you found this review useful, leave a comment if you have questions or thoughts (and don't forget to check them for additional information from others).

Be sure to check out Tracfone Hot Deals for the Summer and you might be interested in the news that iPhone 4 and 4S now work with Tracfone.

Follow us on Facebook where we share information, deals and promo codes!

Thanks for Visiting

April 16, 2014

LG Optimus Dynamic II Review

Review of the Android LG Optimus Dynamic II by Tracfone

This review by TracfoneReviewer, will cover the features, specs, buying information and overall opinion for the LG Optimus Dynamic II (LG L39C) from Tracfone.

LG Optimus Dynamic II LG L39C front
Front of the LG Optimus Dynamic II
The LG Optimus Dynamic II is essentially the replacement for the somewhat underwhelming (although much cheaper) LG Optimus Dynamic that Tracfone released with three other Android Smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy Centura, Huawei Glory, and ZTE Valet, in mid 2013.

The Dynamic II is for use with Tracfone prepaid wireless service, and will not work with other service providers. Tracfone is a low cost, prepaid cell phone company throughout the US and they have several other companies under them, including StraightTalk and Net10. But Phones from one will not work with other companies.

The Dynamic II, along with the other Android Smartphones offered by Tracfone, runs on Verizon's 3G CDMA network. Be sure to check how the coverage in your area is before buying this phone.

Let's get straight to the Features and Specs for the Dynamic II.

LG Optimus Dynamic II Features and Specs:

This smartphone comes with several impressive and convenient features.
  • 3.8" Touchscreen
  • Android 4.1 'Jelly Bean' with access to thousands of apps on Google Play
  • Triple Minutes for Life
  • Separate talk/text/data
  • 3G speeds on Verizon's network
  • WiFi Connectivity
  • Bluetooth
  • 4GB Micro SD card included
  • 3MP camera (fixed focus)
  • MP3 Player
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • GPS
  • Gravity/Shake/Tilt sensor
  • Mobile Web, Email, Text, Caller ID etc.
  • Handsfree speaker
  • Voice Dialing
LG L39C Specs and Dimensions:
  • Phone Size: 4.43" x 2.55" x 0.47"
  • Screen Size: 3.8" (320x480)
  • Weight: 4.44 OZ
  • 1 Ghz Processor
  • 512MB RAM
  • Compatible with up to a 32GB Micro SD card
  • Battery Life: 8 hours talk, 11 days on Standby
If one compares the Dynamic II to the Dynamic, the Dynamic II is basically an improvement in almost every category. Screen size, battery life, processor and Android OS are all improved over the older version, and even over some of the other Android offerings from Tracfone.

Let's briefly highlight some of the features we like, and don't like on the LG L39C:

LG Optimus Dynamic II - Likes and Dislikes:

What We Like About the Phone:

He Dynamic II comes with Android 4.1, which is a newer version of the OS, but not the newest (the newest is currently 4.4). However, this is one of the newest versions that Tracfone is offering.

LG Optimus Dynamic II Review
Google Maps on the LG L39C
For those that might be unaware, Android is an operating system like Apple or Windows 8 but for cell phones. It allows you to have access to thousands of apps (like programs) that give the phone a huge list of possible features, depending on which apps you install. For more information, visit Google Play.

Screen size: The LG Optimus Dynamic II comes with the largest screen size of any Tracfone yet, at 3.8 inches (measured diagonally). This makes it easier to see things, easier to read things, and provides more area to work on the phone.

To give some perspective, the older, LG Optimus Dynamic had just a 3.2" inch screen and the even older LG 800G had even less at 2.8". The other Android smartphones from Tracfone have 3.5" screens.

Additional points about the LG L39C: The phone comes with a 3MP camera which will take good pictures outdoors, but probably will major problems in low light. WiFi has been reported as quite decent, and is a great way to save your data. Just make sure you turn off data when not using it!

There are many other great features included with this phone which you can see in the feature list above. Now let's take a look at some shortcomings for this phone.

What We Dislike about the LG Optimus Dynamic II

First off, this phone is, at this time, the latest and greatest offering from Tracfone, so there is a lot that it does right. However, we do want to point out a few shortcomings, or things we wish Tracfone would change.

The internal memory and RAM are still somewhat small compared to other modern smartphones. The 512mb of RAM is decent enough, but if you load up a lot of apps, you might push this phone to its limit pretty quickly. The Dynamic II has a little less than 2GB of internal memory for apps and other storage. This is OK, but if you plan to store a lot of movies or pictures, get a large SD card and try to put it on there. (This phone does come with a 4GB SD card which is nice).

The LG Optimus Dynamic II runs on Verizon 3G, along with all of Tracfone's other smartphones, and gets fairly good connectivity and coverage. However, roaming on these phones is not good, so if you travel frequently, you might want to wait to buy a new phone.

Finally, Promo Codes no longer work with Android phones from Tracfone which is a disappointment.

Adding and Tracking Prepaid Minutes on the Dynamic II

The way your track minutes, and how minutes are split up on the Android phones from Tracfone are a bit different, so we will cover that here.

Data, Talk and Text are now split into three separate 'pools' so that when you call or use data, you will still have the same number of texts as before. (EX: If you add a 200 minute card, it will be automatically tripled, and you will receive 600mb of data, 600 minutes for talk, and 600 texts).

This is a pretty good deal for almost anyone, except those who might do a lot more texting than calling or surfing the web. However, there are free apps that will text others for free when on WiFi or Data.

To check your airtime balance:
The easiest way to check your airtime on the LG Optimus Dynamic II is to download Tracfone's Airtime App. It is pretty simple to set up, and you can add airtime through it as well. You can almost go on the Tracfone website and check your account from there.

Phone Covers and Cases for the LG L39C:

The Dynamic II is prone to scratches, especially on the glass touchscreen, so it is a good idea to get a case and screen protector.

The Thousand Eight rubberized L39C cover is a good option, or you can view all the cover choices on Amazon including screen protectors.

Overall Review and Buying Tips for the LG Optimus Dynamic II

lg optimus dynamic II review
Dynamic II on Amazon
The Dynamic II is a sleek, modern smartphone that is honestly one of the best choices from Tracfone at this time. It has a larger screen than any other phone, and the rest of its features are similar or better as well.

Users have been reporting a large number of positive reviews, with few problems unlike the ZTE Valet or older Dynamic. (the Valet has had many reports of poor WiFi connection, and the old Dynamic is slower, and smaller).

Retailing for about $110, the LG Optimus Dynamic II is $99 on Amazon at this time, and can also be found at a great deal on sites like eBay, HSN and others.

If you check out the phone on Amazon, it has received an average rating of 4.2 out of 5, and there are a number of questions and answers available for additional information.

We do want to mention that there are some new phones on the horizon coming from Tracfone: The LG Optimus Fuel (LG L34C) is currently available, and the Samsung Galaxy Ace Style and Moto E are coming soon.

Thanks for visiting and reading, and be sure to leave a comment below with your questions, or your thoughts on the LG Optimus Dynamic II.

If you're phone shopping, check out all or reviews on the Cell Phone Reviews page.

You might also want to see the Top Sales and Discounts on Tracfone Cell Phones.

Additional Resources:
LG Optimus Dynamic II Tutorial - View the full and interactive tutorial to learn more about the Dynamic II

LG Optimus Dynamic II User Guide - This is a complete, 80 page PDF user guide.

April 2, 2014

Tracfone Promo Codes for April 2014

New Tracfone Promo Codes  - April 2014

We have created below a short list of just the promo codes that are valid and working for April 2014. These codes are provided by TracfoneReviewer here for your convenience and to help you get some free minutes! We also have a full list on our main promo codes page.

tracfone promo codes april 2014
Tracfone Promo Codes for April 2014
Tracfone Wireless is a prepaid cell phone company that offers low cost cell phones and prepaid service cards. Tracfone also offers promotional codes for users to enter when adding a new prepaid card to get extra minutes for free.

You don't need to do anything to get the minutes besides finding the codes below, and entering them along with your prepaid minutes card.

Here at TracfoneReviewer, our goal is to provide you with information and money saving tips, including codes for free minutes! So we hope you enjoy the minutes, and leave a comment with feedback.

We do more than just codes, check out our cell phone reviews!

Now, let's get to the codes for April 2014!

Tracfone Promo Codes for April 2014

The codes are for 60 minute cards up to the 450 minute card and remember that you can use a code for the specific card amount, or any prepaid card of greater value. (You can use a 200 minute card code with the 450 minute card etc.)

60 Minute Card - get 30 minutes free with code 84464

120 Minute Card - also 30 minutes free with code 66906 (or you can use 84464)

200 Minute Card - grab 40 bonus minutes with code 29224 or 38361

400/1 Year Card - best deal, get 250 minutes free with code 90518 or 56557

450 Minute Card - 50 bonus minutes using code 93528

These are the Tracfone promo codes for April 2014! If you're looking for more options, head over to our main promo codes page. Leave a comment with how the codes worked for you.

You might want to look at our Top Deals and Discounts on Tracfone Cell Phones for April or learn about the news of iPhone 4/4s working with Tracfone.

Thanks for visiting!