The LG 65-Inch Class UQ9000 Series (UQ9000) is a compelling option for viewers seeking a step up to 4K resolution at an affordable price point. This TV boasts LG’s webOS platform for a user-friendly smart TV experience and incorporates AI technology for picture and sound optimization. Let’s delve into the UQ9000’s strengths and weaknesses to see if it fits your viewing needs.
| Brand | LG |
| Display Technology | LED |
| Resolution | 4K |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
| Special Feature | Screen Mirroring |
| Included Components | Stand Included,Power cable |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Today’s LG Class UQ9000 Series Smart TV Deals
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LG 65-Inch Class UQ9000
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LG 75-Inch Class UQ9000
Picture Quality
The UQ9000 utilizes an LED panel with LG’s proprietary a7 Gen 5 AI processor. This processor analyzes content and adjusts picture settings for improved clarity and detail. While it doesn’t offer the superior contrast of OLED technology, the UQ9000 delivers decent picture quality, especially for casual viewers.
The 4K resolution offers a noticeable upgrade over Full HD, showcasing sharper details and crisper text. The inclusion of HDR (High Dynamic Range) expands the contrast ratio, resulting in a wider range of colors and brighter highlights. However, the HDR implementation might not be as advanced as higher-end models, and the peak brightness might not be sufficient for very bright rooms.
Design
The UQ9000 embraces a clean and minimalist design that complements most living spaces. The thin bezels keep the focus on the picture, and the sleek stand provides good stability. The build quality feels decent, with a plastic back panel that doesn’t detract from the overall modern look.
How Does it Compare? Stacking Up Against the Competition
The UQ9000 faces stiff competition in the budget 4K TV market. Here’s a quick comparison against two key rivals:
- Samsung TU-8300: The Samsung TU-8300 offers a similar price tag and boasts a curved screen for a more immersive viewing experience (subjective preference). However, the color accuracy might not be quite as good as the UQ9000, and the smart platform can feel less user-friendly.
- TCL 5 Series (S546): The TCL 5 Series offers a similar price point and boasts a VA panel with potentially deeper blacks. However, the viewing angles might not be as wide as the UQ9000, and the motion handling can be choppier in fast-paced scenes.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities. If you prioritize deeper blacks and prefer a curved screen, the TCL 5 Series might be a better fit. If you value color accuracy and a user-friendly smart platform, the UQ9000 is a strong contender.
Brightness and Contrast
The UQ9000 offers decent brightness, making it suitable for most living room settings. While it might not be the brightest option on the market, it delivers a clear picture even in moderately lit rooms. The contrast is a point to consider. While the AI processing helps with upscaling and detail enhancement, the LED panel limitations become apparent in dark scenes. Deeper blacks achievable with OLED technology are absent in the UQ9000.
Sound Quality
The built-in speakers on the UQ9000 are adequate for casual viewing but lack the depth and power needed for a truly immersive experience. Dialogue is clear, but bass is lacking, and the overall audio can feel thin for action movies or music.
To truly elevate your viewing experience, investing in a soundbar or a surround sound system is highly recommended. This will provide a more robust and immersive soundscape, especially for movie nights and big sporting events.
Smart Features
The UQ9000 boasts LG’s renowned webOS platform, praised for its user-friendly interface and wide selection of apps. You’ll have access to a vast library of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and YouTube. Additionally, webOS integrates with LG’s ThinQ AI, allowing voice control through the remote or compatible smart speakers. This lets you search content, adjust settings, and even control other smart home devices.
The inclusion of AI goes beyond voice control. The a7 Gen 5 processor uses AI to analyze content and optimize picture and sound quality according to the genre (e.g., sports, movies). While the impact might be subtle, it can enhance the overall viewing experience.
Motion
The UQ9000 utilizes LG’s motion processing technology to reduce blur in fast-paced scenes. However, motion handling might not be perfect for viewers seeking the smoothest experience. Judder (a stuttery effect) might be noticeable in very rapid movements, particularly in action movies or sports. Hardcore gamers seeking the absolute smoothest motion for competitive gaming or fast-paced movies might want to consider a TV with a higher native refresh rate (like 120Hz) or more advanced motion processing.
Gaming Features
The UQ9000 offers basic gaming features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) that reduces input lag for a more responsive gaming experience. However, features like HDMI 2.1 with high refresh rates (VRR) are absent in most models. This might be a drawback for serious gamers seeking the most cutting-edge gaming capabilities on their TV.
Durability and Build Quality
The UQ9000 feels well-built with a sturdy plastic back panel and a metallic stand that provides good stability. While not the most luxurious materials, they feel well-constructed and should last for years with proper care. LG is known for its reliable products, and the UQ9000 upholds that reputation.
Viewing Angles and Screen Uniformity
The UQ9000 offers decent viewing angles thanks to the IPS panel technology. This makes it suitable for rooms with multiple viewers seated at different angles. However, some users report issues with dirty screen effect (DSE), which can be more noticeable on larger screens. This can manifest as blotchy patches, especially in dark scenes.
Inputs
The UQ9000 offers a good selection of inputs, including:
- 2x HDMI 2.0 ports (one with eARC for connecting a soundbar)
- 2x HDMI 1.4 ports
- 2x USB ports for media playback or connecting external devices
- Digital optical audio output
- Ethernet port for wired internet connection
While the inclusion of HDMI 2.0 ports might limit some future-proofing for next-gen gaming consoles, the overall selection caters to most viewers’ needs, allowing you to connect various devices like streaming sticks, gaming consoles, and Blu-ray players.
Overall Value
The LG UQ9000 Series offers a compelling proposition for viewers seeking a step up to 4K resolution with a user-friendly smart platform at an affordable price point. The AI integration for picture and sound optimization adds a touch of future-proofing, and the decent viewing angles make it suitable for shared viewing experiences. While limitations exist in motion handling, gaming features, and peak brightness compared to higher-end models, these might be acceptable trade-offs for casual viewers prioritizing affordability and a user-friendly experience.
Conclusion
The LG UQ9000 Series is a solid choice for viewers who prioritize a step up to 4K resolution, a user-friendly smart platform with AI integration, and a budget-friendly price tag. If you can live with some limitations in motion handling, gaming features, and peak brightness, the UQ9000 offers a compelling option from a trusted brand.
