What Hi-Fi? Verdict
This LG backs up tons of features with a solid level of performance to make an enticing package
Pros
- +
Super stylish
- +
myriad connections and functions
- +
strong all-round picture
- +
1080p/24fps
Cons
- -
Lightweight sound
- -
toughest blacks pose some problems
- -
beaten by the best
Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.
It used to be the case that Philips had the prize for ‘more features than you can shake a stick at' nicely boxed-off – but LG has emerged as a worthy adversary.
The number of picture functions available with this TV is staggering, with ‘fresh contrast', ‘eye care' and ‘true motion' just a selection.
As ever, we speculate that if an improvement is valid, why give us the option to turn it off? However, it's true to say that most of these functions are well worth experimenting with.
Features aplenty in a smart package
This is a feature-heavy TV all told – there's also Bluetooth connectivity built-in, which allows you to view images on the set from a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone, or listen to the TV's sound with a Bluetooth headset.
Elsewhere, it's a Full HD resolution, 100Hz screen, complete with four HDMI inputs and a USB 2.0 input. It's all encased in a cool, contoured package, complete with Scarlet trim.
Up and running, we do spot a touch of uneven backlighting on our sample, but we can only hope this is a one-off issue – and hey, the £1500 Pioneer KRL-37V suffers from similar concerns.
Other than that, the good news keeps coming, with the rubbery remote proving simple to use, while the on-screen menus are clear.
Crisp, sharp pictures from Freeview
The Freeview tuner has a crisp, sharp picture that's largely free of noise, while the sound is crisp and clean too, though a little on the lightweight side.
Switch to video and there's a good level of detail, a crispness to edges and a sense of vibrancy. LG's ‘True Motion' system means pictures have a slightly unreal feel to them, though without this processing switched on we still enjoy a smooth-flowing picture.
Using the ‘Just Scan' picture we watch the Blu-ray of Batman Begins in all its pixel-for-pixel glory and again we're impressed. Those tricky low-light scenes aren't perfect but the LG makes a decent stab, while skin tones are natural and insight is decent.
This set is a versatile, stylish and well-connected piece of kit, which, as we're coming to expect from LG, offers a solid level of performance for the cash.
