LG 55UR9000PUA 4K Smart TV Review Best Features and Gaming Performance Explained

Description

A Stylish and Smart 4K TV Experience

Testing the LG 55-Inch Class UR9000 Series Alexa Built-in 4K Smart TV has been quite an adventure. From its sleek design to its AI-powered features, this 55-inch smart TV has a lot to offer, but it’s not without its quirks. Whether you’re a movie buff, gamer, or someone who just enjoys binge-watching your favorite shows, there’s a lot to unpack here.

Design and Build Quality

The super slim design of this TV really stands out. It’s minimalistic yet sophisticated, and it blends seamlessly into a modern living room setup. While mounting it on the wall, I couldn’t help but admire how its simple-to-mount design eliminates distractions and puts the focus entirely on the screen. However, the 44.9-pound weight might make it a bit tricky to handle alone, so having an extra set of hands is definitely helpful.

The 10.1 x 48.7 x 30.8-inch dimensions make it a perfect fit for most medium to large spaces, and the sleek bezels add a touch of elegance. I also appreciated the 16:9 aspect ratio, which made everything from movies to sports broadcasts feel immersive.

Picture and Sound Performance

One of the key benefits of this TV is its AI-powered 4K upscaling. The a5 AI Processor Gen6 does an excellent job of enhancing picture detail and sound quality. Watching content upscaled to 4K was a treat, with sharper images and lifelike details that truly brought visuals to life. Even older shows looked surprisingly crisp.

The addition of HDR10 Pro is a game-changer for anyone who loves stunning visuals. I tested it with some HDR content, and the contrast and vibrancy were impressive. Colors popped off the screen, and it felt like I was transported to another world. Using FILMMAKER MODE made it even better, allowing me to see movies just as the director intended, without unnecessary enhancements.

On the sound front, the AI processor adjusts audio based on room lighting and content type. The sound was clear and well-balanced during most of my tests, though audiophiles might still want to pair it with a soundbar for a richer experience.

Smart Features and WebOS 23

Navigating through the TV’s webOS 23 platform was a breeze. The interface is intuitive and packed with AI-powered features that made searching and streaming a lot easier. I particularly liked the Quick Cards, which grouped my favorite apps into neat categories. Having instant access to over 300 free LG Channels was another perk, offering a wide range of content from sports to entertainment.

The Magic Remote added a layer of convenience, making it easy to find what I needed with minimal effort. Voice commands via Alexa worked seamlessly, and I found myself relying on it more than the physical remote.

Gaming Capabilities

As someone who occasionally dives into gaming, the LG Game Optimizer was a pleasant surprise. It allowed me to customize my gaming experience all in one place. Paired with GeForce NOW, I could stream my favorite games without needing an external console, which felt revolutionary. The 60Hz refresh rate, while not groundbreaking, was sufficient for casual gaming, though competitive gamers might crave something faster.

Key Benefits

• AI-Powered 4K Upscaling delivers enhanced picture and sound quality.
• HDR10 Pro and FILMMAKER MODE create a cinematic viewing experience.
• Slim, stylish design fits seamlessly into modern interiors.
• WebOS 23 and Magic Remote make navigation and streaming intuitive.
• Game Optimizer and GeForce NOW cater to casual gamers.

Areas for Improvement

While the TV has a lot of great features, it isn’t perfect.

• The 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy hardcore gamers who demand ultra-smooth motion.
• Sound quality, while decent, might not meet the expectations of audio enthusiasts without external speakers.
• The weight and size make it slightly cumbersome to set up, especially for one person.

Competing Brands

Compared to similar TVs in this price range, the LG 55-Inch Class UR9000 Series holds its own but isn’t without competition. For instance, Samsung’s 4K smart TVs often boast 120Hz refresh rates, making them a better choice for gamers. On the other hand, LG wins with its webOS 23 interface, which feels more user-friendly and feature-packed than Samsung’s Tizen OS.

Sony’s Bravia series offers excellent sound quality with their Acoustic Surface Audio technology, but they come at a premium price. LG, with its AI-powered enhancements and gaming features, strikes a good balance for those seeking a versatile TV.

Worth Every Penny

From a price-to-quality ratio perspective, this TV offers a lot of value. You’re getting AI-powered features, 300+ free channels, and an immersive cinematic experience at a competitive price point. While it might not cater to niche audiences like professional gamers or audiophiles, it’s a solid choice for general household use.

Overall, using this TV has been a delightful experience. Its blend of performance, design, and functionality makes it a strong contender in the market. Whether you’re upgrading your home theater or looking for a versatile smart TV, this model is worth considering.

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