LG 32LJ500B 32-Inch LED TV review is it worth buying

Description

Compact Design with Practical Features

I recently had the chance to test out the LG Electronics 32LJ500B 32-Inch 720p LED TV, and it’s been a surprisingly versatile addition to my home setup. This 32-inch flat-screen TV fits perfectly into smaller spaces like bedrooms or guest rooms. The sleek black finish gives it a modern look, while the 16:9 aspect ratio ensures that everything you watch feels cinematic. Its lightweight nature, at just 11 pounds, makes it easy to move around, which came in handy when I decided to rearrange a bit. The dimensions of 28.7 x 7.2 x 18.7 inches make it compact enough without feeling cramped.

The optional Smart TV functionality is a nice touch, but it’s worth noting that it operates just as smoothly as a non-smart TV when not connected to Wi-Fi. This was something my parents really appreciated, as they’re not exactly tech enthusiasts. The lack of unnecessary bulk in the design, paired with its flat-screen display, makes the TV feel more premium than I expected for its price range.

Picture Quality and Performance

The 720p resolution might not scream “top-of-the-line,” but for a TV of this size, it delivers crisp and vibrant visuals. I tested it primarily with streaming services and a gaming console, and the image clarity exceeded my expectations. While it’s not made for 4K enthusiasts, the LED display technology does a great job of enhancing the contrast and making colors pop. Watching action-packed movies or animated shows felt lively and immersive, which was a pleasant surprise.

The 10-watt power output for sound does a decent job, but it’s not going to blow anyone away. I ended up connecting a soundbar for better audio quality, especially during dialogue-heavy shows. That being said, the built-in speakers are more than sufficient for casual viewing. It’s also worth mentioning that the TV handles fast-moving scenes well, with almost no noticeable motion blur—something I didn’t expect at this price point.

Good Points

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to fit into small spaces or move between rooms.
• Optional Smart TV mode allows flexibility for users who prefer a simple setup without Wi-Fi.
• Vivid LED display with solid color reproduction for a 720p TV.
• Great for casual viewing or as a secondary TV for guest rooms, kitchens, or smaller living spaces.

Areas for Improvement

• Sound quality is adequate but lacks depth, making an external speaker setup almost necessary.
• No Full HD resolution, which might be a dealbreaker for those used to 1080p or higher.
• Limited smart functionality compared to fully integrated smart TVs in the market.
• Lacks some modern connectivity options, such as Bluetooth or additional HDMI ports.

Ease of Setup and Controls

Setting up the TV was a breeze. Straight out of the box, it included everything I needed, and the process was straightforward. The remote control is simple and easy to use, though it doesn’t feel particularly premium. My younger cousin, who’s not exactly tech-savvy, managed to navigate the menus without any hiccups, which speaks volumes about its user-friendly interface. Switching between inputs and tweaking settings is intuitive, and I didn’t feel the need to consult the manual—a rarity for me!

The manual settings for brightness, contrast, and sound allowed me to fine-tune the viewing experience. While it doesn’t offer advanced calibration options like some high-end models, the basics are all there, and they work well. It’s a no-fuss TV that gets the job done without overwhelming you with unnecessary features.

Product Rivals

Compared to other 32-inch LED TVs in this range, the LG 32LJ500B holds its own. For instance, I’ve also used a Samsung 32-inch LED model, and while it had slightly better resolution at 1080p, the color performance wasn’t as vibrant as LG’s. On the other hand, brands like TCL offer built-in Roku functionality, which gives them an edge in the smart TV department. However, the LG TV’s simplicity makes it ideal for someone who doesn’t need all the bells and whistles.

One thing that stood out to me is that this TV feels sturdier than some of its competitors. A friend of mine has a Hisense model, and while it’s similarly priced, it feels flimsier and doesn’t have the same vibrant color reproduction. The LG TV’s flat screen and solid frame make it feel more reliable in the long run.

Quality for Price

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, this TV does a great job of balancing affordability with functionality. It’s not going to win any awards for cutting-edge technology, but it’s not trying to. The LG 32LJ500B focuses on delivering reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. If you’re looking for a secondary TV or one for light use, it’s hard to go wrong here. While some competitors might offer slightly better specs, they often come at a higher price point.

For anyone who values simplicity and ease of use, this is an excellent choice. It’s clear that LG designed this model with practicality in mind, making it a great option for those who don’t need all the extras of a high-end smart TV.

All in all, this TV strikes the right balance between affordability and quality, making it a solid pick for a variety of users.

Additional information