LG SM8600PUA 65-inch 4K UHD Smart TV review exceptional display and features

Description

Design and Build Quality That Stands Out

The LG SM8600PUA 65-inch HDR 4K UHD Smart Nano Cell IPS LED TV caught my attention immediately with its sleek and modern design. It’s not just a TV; it’s a statement piece for your living room. The thin bezels, coupled with the sturdy yet minimalist stand, make it look premium. I appreciated the slim profile, which allowed it to blend seamlessly into my entertainment setup. Its build quality feels robust, and the materials used don’t give off any cheap vibes. If you’re someone who values aesthetics as much as performance, this display certainly delivers on that front.

Picture Quality That Elevates Viewing

What truly sets this TV apart is its NanoCell technology, which enhances color accuracy and vibrancy. Watching movies and TV shows felt like experiencing a mini cinema at home. Colors popped, and the HDR support ensured that details in both dark and bright scenes were well-preserved. I tested it with a variety of content, from animated movies to high-action sequences, and the 4K resolution didn’t disappoint. The IPS panel also meant that viewing angles were excellent; even from the sides, the picture remained sharp and consistent.

However, I did notice that the black levels could be deeper. In dimly lit scenes, it sometimes lacked the depth you’d expect from OLED displays. Still, considering the price range, this is a solid performer for most viewing needs.

Smart Features and Usability

Navigating through the webOS platform was a breeze. The interface is intuitive, and I loved how customizable it is. The Magic Remote made interaction even more enjoyable—pointing, clicking, and speaking commands felt natural. The inclusion of AI ThinQ technology added a layer of convenience, allowing me to control not just the TV but also other connected smart devices. Built-in apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu are easily accessible, and the voice assistant support (Google Assistant and Alexa) worked flawlessly.

On the downside, the app store felt a little limited compared to other ecosystems like Roku or Android TV. While it covers most popular apps, some niche ones were missing, which might bother certain users.

Audio Performance: Does It Match the Visuals?

The audio quality surprised me. For a TV with integrated speakers, the sound was clear, and the Dolby Atmos support added a sense of immersion during action-packed scenes. I didn’t feel the immediate need for a soundbar, but audiophiles might still prefer external speakers for a fuller experience. The bass could use a bit more depth, especially for music-heavy content, but for casual viewing, the sound exceeded my expectations.

Positives

• NanoCell technology ensures vibrant and accurate colors.
• The webOS platform provides a clean and user-friendly interface.
• Excellent viewing angles thanks to the IPS panel.
• Magic Remote enhances usability with intuitive controls.
• Dolby Atmos support improves sound immersion.

Caveats

• Black levels are not as deep as OLED panels.
• The app store lacks some niche options.
• Integrated speakers could use better bass performance.

Competing Brands

Comparing this TV to Samsung’s QLED models, the LG SM8600PUA holds its own in terms of color accuracy and smart features. However, Samsung’s QLED lineup often boasts better brightness levels and deeper blacks. On the other hand, Sony’s Bravia lineup excels in motion handling and overall picture processing, but it comes at a higher price point. For those considering TCL’s Roku TVs, you might get slightly better app availability but at the cost of premium build quality and advanced color technologies like NanoCell.

Where the LG TV stands out is in its combination of aesthetics, features, and impressive color reproduction at its price range. It strikes a balance that many competitors struggle to achieve.

True Value

For what it offers, this TV provides excellent value for money. The advanced features, combined with the elegant design and reliable performance, make it a worthy investment for anyone upgrading their home entertainment system. While there are some areas where it could improve, particularly in black levels and app variety, it’s hard to argue with the overall package. If you’re looking for a mid-range 4K TV with a touch of premium flair, this one is definitely worth considering.