LG UP7000PUA 43-inch 4K UHD Smart TV review with pros and cons

Description

Design and Build Quality

The LG UP7000PUA 43-inch 4K UHD Smart TV immediately impressed me with its sleek and minimalist design. Its thin profile and lightweight frame make it ideal for either wall mounting or placing on a stand. I personally opted to mount it, and it fit seamlessly into my living room setup. The 300 x 300 VESA mounting compatibility made installation straightforward. At just 15.9 pounds with the stand, it’s lighter than many other TVs I’ve used in this size range.

The bezels are thin but not ultra-slim, which is fine for a TV in this category. While the plastic build doesn’t scream premium, it feels sturdy enough for everyday use. The 38.1 x 24.3 x 8.6-inch dimensions with the stand ensure a compact footprint, perfect for smaller spaces.

Picture Quality That Stands Out

What sets this TV apart is its Real 4K Display, and let me tell you, the resolution is crisp and vibrant. I tested it with streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, and the HDR10 and HLG support really brought out the details in darker scenes. Watching action-packed films in Filmmaker Mode™ felt like being in a theater, as it preserves the director’s original intent.

One feature I particularly loved was the Active HDR, which adjusts the contrast dynamically, ensuring bright colors and deep blacks. However, I did notice that the Direct Backlight isn’t quite as impactful as edge-lit displays when dealing with high-contrast scenes. The TruMotion 120 technology, which operates at a native 60Hz refresh rate, does a decent job of smoothing out motion, though fast-paced sequences in sports or gaming occasionally showed minor blur.

Audio Performance

With its 20W 2.0 channel speaker system, the sound quality is serviceable but not extraordinary. The down-firing speakers provide decent clarity for dialogues, but they lack bass depth. I ended up connecting a soundbar through the eARC HDMI 2 port, which significantly improved the audio experience. If you’re big on immersive sound, you’ll likely want to invest in external audio equipment.

The TV also supports multiple audio codecs, including Dolby Digital, AAC, and HE-AAC, ensuring compatibility with various streaming platforms.

Smart Features and Usability

Navigating through the webOS 6.0 interface was smooth and intuitive. The Magic Explorer feature felt like a fun addition, offering quick recommendations based on what I was watching. Connecting to apps like Prime Video, Hulu, and Apple TV was a breeze, thanks to the LG Content Store and Wi-Fi Certified 802.11ac connectivity.

The Home Dashboard centralizes all settings and connected devices, making it a one-stop hub. I also tested the Sports Alert feature, which kept me updated with game scores while I binge-watched my favorite drama series. The compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay 2 adds convenience, though I stuck to Alexa since I already had it set up at home.

For gamers, the Game Optimizer and HGiG mode are standout features. I tried connecting a console and was impressed by the low input lag and adjustable settings tailored for FPS, RPG, and RTS genres. However, competitive gamers might prefer a higher refresh rate.

Highlights

• Real 4K resolution with vibrant colors and crisp details.
• Filmmaker Mode™ for authentic cinematic experiences.
• Game Optimizer and HGiG for enhanced gaming visuals.
• Intuitive webOS 6.0 interface with app integration.

Critiques

• Audio lacks bass and requires external speakers for a richer experience.
• 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy hardcore gamers or sports enthusiasts.
• The Direct Backlight could deliver better contrast in darker scenes.

Competing Brands

When compared to other options like the Samsung TU7000 or the TCL 4 Series, this TV holds its own in terms of picture quality and smart features. However, the Samsung TU7000 edges out with slightly better contrast due to its Ultra HD Dimming technology. On the other hand, the TCL 4 Series offers Dolby Vision HDR, which some users might prefer over the HDR10 on this model.

The LG 43UP7000PUA, however, excels in gaming features like low input lag and ALLM, making it a better choice for casual gamers. Its webOS interface is also more user-friendly compared to Samsung’s Tizen or TCL’s Roku OS.

Value for Money

This TV offers solid cost-efficiency for its features. You’re getting a 4K UHD display, smart TV capabilities, and gaming optimizations at an approachable price point. While it may lack the premium build and advanced panel technology of higher-end models, it delivers a reliable viewing experience for everyday use. For those on a budget, this is a smart spending decision, especially if you prioritize user-friendly software and vibrant picture quality.

Additional information