LG 32LM577BPUA Smart TV Review Best 32-Inch 720P LCD for 2023

Description

Design and Build Quality

The LG LM577B 32-in 720P HD LCD Smart TV (32LM577BPUA) has a sleek and minimalist design that fits effortlessly into most spaces. Its black finish and slim bezels give it a contemporary look, ideal for a bedroom, small living room, or even a dorm. I noticed the TV is relatively lightweight, at just 4 kilograms, which made it easy to set up on my own. The flat screen adds to its versatility, whether mounted on the wall or placed on a stand. However, the build feels more plastic-heavy than premium, which might be a letdown for some. While functional, the stand could be sturdier as it slightly wobbles if not positioned on a perfectly level surface.

Picture Performance

The 720p HD resolution may not be cutting-edge, but for a 32-inch screen size, it delivers decent clarity. Watching shows on Netflix and Disney+ was enjoyable, and the dynamic color enhancer does a good job of making colors pop without appearing oversaturated. The Active HDR with HDR10 and HLG support truly stands out when streaming HDR-enabled content, offering impressive contrast and details in darker scenes. However, the 60Hz refresh rate is a limitation for fast-paced action sequences, where slight motion blur is noticeable. While the Resolution Upscaler helps improve lower-quality content, it’s not a miracle worker. You’ll want to stick to HD content for the best experience.

Smart Features and Usability

This TV is powered by WebOS, which I found to be intuitive and user-friendly. Navigating through apps like Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube TV was smooth, and the inclusion of Google Assistant and Alexa integration (though requiring separate devices) makes controlling the TV hands-free a breeze. The home dashboard is a convenient feature, especially for managing connected devices. However, the app store is somewhat limited compared to competitors. While it supports popular platforms, I missed having access to some niche apps I use frequently. The full web browser, though functional, is a bit clunky to navigate without a keyboard.

Audio Quality

The 2.0 channel speaker system offers 10W output power, which is sufficient for smaller spaces but lacks bass depth. I tested it while watching action movies and noticed that dialogues were clear, but explosions and background scores felt underwhelming. The down-firing speaker design works well for table placement but might disappoint if mounted high on a wall. The TV supports multiple audio codecs, including Dolby Digital (AC3) and HE-AAC, which ensures compatibility with various content. For a better sound experience, consider pairing it with a soundbar or external speakers via the HDMI ARC or optical audio output.

Connectivity and Ports

The three HDMI inputs (HDMI 1.4) and two USB ports were more than enough for connecting my gaming console, streaming stick, and an external hard drive. I appreciated the presence of an Ethernet port, as the Wi-Fi Certified 802.11ac connection struggled slightly in areas with weaker signals. The RF input for antennas and Clear QAM tuner make this TV compatible with both cable and over-the-air broadcasts. It’s worth mentioning that only one HDMI ARC port is available, so you’ll need to prioritize its use if you have multiple ARC-compatible devices.

Key Benefits

• Dynamic color enhancer makes images vibrant and visually appealing.
• Active HDR (HDR10 and HLG) adds depth to both bright and dark scenes.
• WebOS interface is intuitive and supports popular streaming platforms.
• Lightweight design and flat screen are perfect for versatile placement.

Areas of Concern

• 720p resolution won’t satisfy those who are used to Full HD or 4K displays.
• Plastic-heavy build feels less premium compared to competitors.
• Limited app store on WebOS leaves out some niche options.
• Internal speakers lack bass, making external audio devices almost a necessity.

Product Comparisons

Comparing this model to TCL’s 32-inch Roku TV, I found that while the LG model excels in color reproduction and HDR support, the TCL TV offers a higher resolution option (1080p) at a similar price range. The Roku interface also feels slightly more polished than WebOS, with a wider app selection. On the other hand, Samsung’s 32-inch M4500 has better build quality but lacks HDR support altogether, putting the LG TV ahead in terms of cinematic features. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, TCL might be a better fit, but for HDR lovers, this LG model is a strong contender.

Price Performance

In terms of bang for the buck, this TV strikes a good balance between features and cost. Its Active HDR and dynamic color capabilities make it stand out in the affordable smart TV category, even though the 720p resolution might feel dated. While there are cheaper alternatives, few offer the same HDR support and seamless integration with smart assistants. If you’re someone who values streaming features and decent picture quality over resolution, this TV offers true value for its price. However, those seeking higher resolution or premium build quality might need to stretch their budget a bit further.

Additional information