LG 32LM577BPUA Smart TV review uncovering features, performance, and HDR quality

Description

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The LG LM577B 32-in 720P HD LCD 60Hz Smart TV (model 32LM577BPUA) strikes a balance between simplicity and elegance. Its sleek black finish blends seamlessly into most living spaces, whether it’s perched on a stand or mounted on the wall. At just 28.35 inches wide and 1.57 inches deep, it offers a minimalist profile that doesn’t dominate a room. I particularly appreciated its lightweight build—at only 4 kilograms, it’s incredibly easy to move around, which is a bonus if you’re someone who likes to rearrange furniture often. While the overall design feels modern, it’s not overly fancy, which might be a bit of a letdown for those who prefer TVs with ultra-thin bezels or a more premium look.

Picture Quality and Performance

This TV offers HD 720p resolution (1,366 x 768), which, while not groundbreaking in today’s world of 4K displays, delivers a solid viewing experience for the price. The Quad-Core Processor ensures that images remain crisp and colors vibrant, aided by the Dynamic Color Enhancer. Watching animated content or nature documentaries on this screen was genuinely enjoyable because of the Active HDR (HDR10 and HLG) support, which adds depth and contrast to brighter scenes.

That said, I did notice that darker scenes tended to lack the detail and depth you’d expect from higher-end TVs, such as OLED models. The 60Hz refresh rate is decent for casual viewing and some light gaming, although it’s not ideal for fast-paced action or competitive gamers. For those who primarily stream or watch cable, the performance is more than sufficient.

Smart Features and Usability

One of the key benefits of this TV is its WebOS operating system, which is intuitive and user-friendly. From apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and YouTube TV to music services like Spotify and iHeartRadio, the selection is impressive for a TV in this price range. Setting up the LG Content Store was straightforward, and browsing through apps felt smooth, thanks to the efficient processor.

The inclusion of Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility is a nice touch, although you’ll need a separate device to make full use of these features. I tested it with Google Assistant, and it responded fairly quickly to commands, whether it was adjusting the volume or switching between apps. However, the lack of a voice-enabled remote means you’ll need to rely on external devices if you want hands-free operation.

Audio Quality

The 2.0 channel speaker system with 10W output power is pretty much what you’d expect from a TV in this size and price category. It’s serviceable for general use, like watching sitcoms or news, but it struggles to deliver a rich cinematic audio experience. I found that dialogue was clear, but bass was almost non-existent. Luckily, the TV supports a variety of audio codecs, including Dolby Digital (AC3) and MP3, and has HDMI ARC functionality, so pairing it with a soundbar is both straightforward and highly recommended. Once I connected my soundbar, the difference in audio quality was night and day.

Connectivity and Inputs

This TV comes with a generous selection of ports, including three HDMI inputs, two USB ports, and an Ethernet port, in addition to the standard RF Input and digital audio output. I tested all three HDMI ports and was pleased to find no noticeable lag when switching between devices like a streaming stick, gaming console, and Blu-ray player. The Wi-Fi Certified 802.11ac connection ensures smooth streaming, even at higher resolutions, though do note that this is limited by the TV’s 720p display.

Having both HDMI-CEC (Simplink) and IP Control adds a layer of functionality for those who want to connect and control multiple devices. It’s a small but thoughtful inclusion for tech-savvy users.

Good Points

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to move or mount.
• WebOS platform is intuitive and offers a wide range of streaming apps.
• Active HDR enhances brightness and contrast in well-lit scenes.
• Multiple connectivity options, including three HDMI ports and two USB ports.
• Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility for smart home integration.

Critiques

• 720p resolution feels outdated compared to the growing prevalence of 4K TVs.
• Audio lacks depth, especially in terms of bass performance.
• Dark scenes can appear flat and lack detail due to limited contrast.
• No voice-enabled remote, limiting smart feature usability out of the box.

Competing Products

In a market filled with budget-friendly options, this TV faces stiff competition. Take Samsung’s 32-inch Smart TVs, for instance. They often feature Full HD 1080p resolution and slightly better color accuracy, though they come at a higher price point. Meanwhile, TCL’s Roku TVs offer similar HD resolution but stand out with the built-in Roku interface, which some might find more user-friendly than WebOS.

That said, the LG TV’s Quad-Core processor and Active HDR give it a slight edge when it comes to processing speed and dynamic range. Unlike competitors, it also offers HDMI ARC functionality and supports a wider variety of codecs, making it a more versatile choice for those looking to integrate external devices.

Value Assessment

For its price bracket, this TV delivers good value for those on a budget. While higher-end models boast 4K resolution and superior sound systems, they also come with a significantly heftier price tag. The LG LM577BPUA caters to a specific audience—those who need a reliable, no-frills TV for casual viewing, secondary rooms, or as an entry-level smart TV. It’s not trying to be the best on the market, but it understands its target audience well.

If you’re looking for cost-efficiency without compromising on essential smart features, this TV is worth considering.

Additional information