Google Nexus 5 (LG D821) — 16GB Unlocked Android Smartphone
The Google Nexus 5 is a 4.95-inch Full HD Android smartphone built by LG, running a Snapdragon 800 quad-core processor with 2 GB RAM and 16 GB storage. Network-unlocked, with Qi wireless charging and an 8 MP optically stabilised camera. Backed by a 12-month Reboot IT warranty.
⚠ No VoLTE support. Australian carriers have shut down their 3G networks, and this handset cannot place voice calls over 4G. It is suitable for Wi-Fi use, mobile data, development, testing, and collections — not as a primary phone for calls.
Key Benefits
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Full HD 4.95-inch IPS display: 1920×1080 at roughly 445 ppi remains genuinely sharp, with IPS viewing angles and Gorilla Glass 3 protection over the panel.
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Snapdragon 800 quad-core: A 2.26 GHz quad-core Krait 400 with Adreno 330 graphics still handles browsing, media playback, and most everyday Android apps without complaint.
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Optically stabilised camera: The 8 MP rear camera includes optical image stabilisation — uncommon at this size and age — producing noticeably steadier low-light shots and video.
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Qi wireless charging built in: Charges on any standard Qi pad without an adapter or case, which few handsets of this generation offered as standard.
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Network unlocked: Not tied to a carrier, so it accepts a SIM from any provider for data use, and works internationally on supported bands.
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Clean Android, developer friendly: A Nexus device with an unlockable bootloader and strong community support — the standard choice for Android development, testing, and custom ROM work.
Performance in Use
The Nexus 5 was a genuinely well-engineered handset and the hardware holds up better than its age suggests. The 1080p IPS panel is sharp and colour-accurate, the Snapdragon 800 remains responsive under light to moderate load, and 2 GB of RAM is adequate for the Android versions this device runs. As a Wi-Fi device for media, browsing, or as a dedicated app-testing handset, it performs perfectly well.
The critical limitation is network compatibility, and it needs stating plainly. This handset has no VoLTE support. Now that Australian carriers have retired their 3G networks, voice calls cannot be carried — a phone without VoLTE has no path to place or receive a call on a modern Australian network. Mobile data over 4G continues to work on supported bands.
That makes the Nexus 5 a specific-purpose device rather than a general one. It remains a strong choice as a development handset, a Wi-Fi-only media or kiosk device, a spare for travel data, or a collector's piece — the Nexus 5 is a well-regarded model in Android history. It is not a replacement for a working phone, and should not be bought as one.
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Model |
Google Nexus 5 (LG D821) |
| Display |
4.95-inch IPS, 1920 × 1080 Full HD, Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Processor |
Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 quad-core 2.26 GHz |
| Graphics |
Adreno 330 |
| Memory |
2 GB RAM |
| Storage |
16 GB internal (no microSD slot) |
| Rear Camera |
8 MP with optical image stabilisation |
| Front Camera |
1.3 MP |
| Wireless Charging |
Qi compatible |
| Network |
4G LTE data — no VoLTE (voice calls not supported in Australia) |
| SIM |
Micro-SIM, network unlocked |
| Battery |
Non-removable (see condition grade note) |
| Warranty |
12 months (Reboot IT) |
Is It Right for You?
✓ Best For: • Android app development and device testing • Wi-Fi-only use — media, browsing, kiosk, or second-screen • Mobile data on 4G where voice calling is not required • Collectors and Nexus enthusiasts • Parts donor for another Nexus 5 repair |
✗ Not For: • Use as a primary phone — voice calls are not supported in Australia • Anyone needing VoLTE, Wi-Fi calling, or 5G • Users wanting current Android security updates • Storage expansion — there is no microSD slot • Camera-led use where a modern smartphone sensor is expected |
Condition Grades
| Grade |
Cosmetic Condition |
Functional Testing |
| A — Excellent |
Minimal marks, near-new appearance |
Display, touch, Wi-Fi, cameras, charging, and data connectivity verified |
| B — Good |
Light wear from normal use, fully functional |
Display, touch, Wi-Fi, cameras, charging, and data connectivity verified |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make phone calls with this handset in Australia?
No. The Nexus 5 has no VoLTE support, and Australian carriers have shut down the 3G networks it relied on for voice. Mobile data over 4G still works, but voice calls cannot be carried. Please buy this device only for data, Wi-Fi, development, or collection use.
Is the handset network unlocked?
Yes. It is not locked to any carrier and will accept a SIM from any provider for data use, subject to band compatibility.
What condition is the battery in?
Grade A units test at 70% or better of original battery capacity, and Grade B units at 50 to 70%. Battery is covered by a 30-day warranty. The battery is not user-replaceable.
Can I add more storage?
No. The Nexus 5 has 16 GB of internal storage and no microSD card slot, so storage cannot be expanded.
Does it support wireless charging?
Yes. Qi wireless charging is built in and works with any standard Qi charging pad. A charging pad is not included.
Is a charger included?
Accessory inclusion varies between refurbished units. The handset charges over Micro-USB or any Qi wireless pad. Contact us before ordering if a charger is essential.
What are the shipping options?
Free standard shipping across Australia.
Warranty & Support
Every Google Nexus 5 sold by Reboot IT includes a 12-month warranty covering hardware defects and functional failure from the date of purchase.
Reboot IT has been Australia's trusted refurbished IT specialist since 2001. Every unit is tested before dispatch — display, touch, Wi-Fi, cameras, charging, and data connectivity are all confirmed working. Free standard shipping across Australia. Melbourne-based support at reboot-it.com.au.