LG 43UP7000PUA 4K UHD Smart TV review Exploring Features and Performance

Description

Design and Build Quality: A Slim and Minimalist Approach

The LG UP7000PUA 43-inch 4K UHD Smart TV has a design that fits effortlessly into any modern living room. Its thin profile and lightweight frame make it ideal for both wall mounting and placement on a stand. I personally found its 38.1-inch width without the stand to be compact enough for smaller spaces, yet wide enough to feel immersive. The down-firing 20W speakers are subtly integrated, maintaining the sleek look without compromising on audio delivery. While the build feels sturdy enough for regular use, I did notice the stand can feel a bit narrow compared to other TVs. If you’ve got curious kids or pets running around, wall mounting might be the safer bet.

Picture Quality: Real 4K Brilliance

The Real 4K Display on this TV is undeniably one of its standout features. Watching my favorite shows in 4K Ultra HD resolution was a delight, especially with the Active HDR technology that supports HDR10 and HLG formats. Colors felt vibrant, and details were crisp—perfect for nature documentaries or cinematic movies. I tested the Filmmaker Mode, which adjusts settings to deliver a director’s cinematic vision. Honestly, it brought out such subtle details in shadows and highlights that even older movies felt fresh. However, the 60Hz refresh rate, while adequate for casual viewing, might not cut it for hardcore gamers used to higher rates.

Smart Features and Content Accessibility

Navigating through the webOS platform was a breeze. The interface is clean, and apps like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and YouTube TV are preloaded, which saved me some setup time. Using voice commands via Alexa felt intuitive, though I wish the “Hey Google” integration was as seamless. I particularly enjoyed the Magic Explorer feature—it’s like having a trivia guide for whatever I’m watching. The LG Content Store also had plenty of lesser-known apps to explore, which was a nice bonus. That said, the lack of Dolby Vision support might disappoint those who are used to premium streaming quality.

Gaming Experience: Optimized for Casual Gamers

If you’re a gamer, you’ll appreciate the Game Optimizer feature. It centralizes settings for FPS, RPG, and RTS genres, making it super easy to tweak visuals for better performance. I tested it with a fast-paced racing game, and the low input lag and HGiG support made the gameplay incredibly smooth. However, the 60Hz refresh rate does limit its appeal for competitive gaming. Those used to 120Hz or higher might notice the difference.

Positives

• The 4K UHD resolution delivers sharp, detailed visuals.
• Active HDR enhances color and contrast for cinematic experiences.
• webOS provides a user-friendly interface with access to popular streaming services.
• Game Optimizer makes it a great choice for casual gamers.

Areas for Improvement

• The 60Hz refresh rate might feel limiting for serious gamers.
• Lack of Dolby Vision support detracts from premium streaming quality.
• The stand feels a bit narrow, reducing stability on certain surfaces.

Competitive Options

Compared to other TVs in its price range, the LG UP7000PUA holds its own. For instance, Samsung’s TU7000 series offers similar 4K capabilities but outshines in its color accuracy and slightly better build quality. On the other hand, TCL’s 4-Series Roku TV might be a stronger contender for budget-conscious buyers, thanks to its built-in Roku platform and comparable picture quality. That said, the Filmmaker Mode and Game Optimizer on the LG make it a better fit for movie buffs and casual gamers.

True Value

In terms of value for money, this TV strikes a good balance. It’s not the cheapest 4K TV out there, but its features—like Active HDR, Filmmaker Mode, and the Game Optimizer—justify the investment. While it’s not a premium option like OLEDs, it offers a solid mid-tier experience that combines quality and affordability. If you’re someone who enjoys immersive movie nights or casual gaming sessions, this TV is worth considering.

Additional information