LG 32LQ630BPUA Smart LED TV review perfect for small spaces and casual viewing

Description

Design and Build Quality

The LG 32LQ630BPUA 32″ Smart LED-LCD TV is compact yet sleek, making it a great addition to smaller spaces like bedrooms, dorms, or even cozy living rooms. With its 16:9 aspect ratio and 32-inch screen, this TV is designed to fit perfectly in tighter areas without compromising on visual quality. I noticed the black finish gives it a modern look, blending seamlessly with most interiors. Its lightweight design—just 10.4 pounds—makes mounting or repositioning it hassle-free. The build feels sturdy, though I wouldn’t categorize it as “premium.” That said, for its price range, it strikes a balance between affordability and durability.

The slim bezels around the screen enhance the viewing experience, making the display feel larger than it actually is. However, the stand felt a bit wobbly on my TV table, which might require extra caution if you have kids or pets running around.

Picture Quality and Display Features

I was pleasantly surprised by the 720p resolution with 1366 x 768 pixels. While it’s not Full HD, the display offers crisp and vibrant visuals, especially for casual viewing like sitcoms or sports. The HDR Dynamic Tone Mapping adds depth to darker scenes, and the Active HDR feature noticeably enhances bright scenes, making colors pop. Although it doesn’t rival high-end 4K TVs, the Direct LED lighting ensures a brighter picture compared to other TVs I’ve tested in this price category.

The Film Mode and Sport Mode settings are game-changers. Watching action-packed football games or cinematic dramas felt immersive, thanks to the 60 Hz refresh rate, which minimizes motion blur. However, during fast-paced gaming, I did notice some slight lag, which could be a dealbreaker for hardcore gamers.

Smart Features and Connectivity

This TV comes loaded with smart functionality, making it more than just a screen. The app store and built-in internet browser allow you to access apps, websites, and streaming platforms without needing an external device. I found the integration of Alexa and Google Assistant particularly useful for hands-free operation. You can ask it to play your favorite shows, adjust the volume, or even check the weather.

The Resolution Upscaler was a pleasant surprise. Streaming lower-quality content didn’t look pixelated or blurry, which is often an issue with budget TVs. The wireless LAN support made connecting to my home Wi-Fi seamless, and streaming on Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu was smooth without any buffering issues.

With two HDMI ports, you can easily connect gaming consoles or other devices. The PC streaming feature is a bonus; I tried connecting my laptop for a work presentation, and the screen mirrored flawlessly. However, the lack of more HDMI ports might be limiting for users with multiple devices.

Audio Performance

The 2.0 channel down-firing speakers deliver decent sound quality for everyday use. Watching a movie with moderate sound effects felt clear, but the bass was underwhelming. If you’re an audiophile or enjoy deep, booming audio during action movies, you might want to invest in a soundbar or external speakers. The Audio Return Channel (ARC) makes this easy to set up.

For casual TV watching, the Sound Sync feature ensures all audio stays perfectly in sync with the visuals. It’s a thoughtful addition, especially when streaming from apps or external devices.

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight, perfect for smaller spaces.
• The HDR Dynamic Tone Mapping enhances both bright and dark scenes.
• Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
• Wireless LAN support ensures seamless streaming.
• Resolution Upscaler makes low-quality content look better.

Negative Attributes

• Limited to 720p resolution, which might not satisfy those used to Full HD or 4K.
• The stand feels unstable, especially on uneven surfaces.
• Audio lacks bass, making it less ideal for movie enthusiasts without external speakers.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to competitors like the TCL 32-inch Smart LED Roku TV or the Samsung M5 Smart Monitor, it becomes evident where it shines and falters. The TCL model offers similar smart features but comes with Roku integration, which some users might prefer for its intuitive interface. However, TCL’s picture quality lacks the depth provided by LG’s Active HDR.

The Samsung M5, on the other hand, doubles as a smart monitor for work and entertainment, offering Full HD resolution. While its display is sharper, it doesn’t have the same variety of smart features, such as Alexa and Google Assistant integration, that the LG TV provides. For those who prioritize a balance between smart functionality and affordability, the LG model remains a strong contender.

True Value

Considering its features and performance, this TV offers great value for its price point. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly option with modern smart features. While it doesn’t compete with high-end models in terms of resolution or sound quality, it serves its purpose well for casual viewing and streaming. For users who don’t need the bells and whistles of a 4K TV, this is a smart and affordable choice that doesn’t compromise too much on quality.

Additional information