LG QNED85 Series 4K Smart TV Review AI-Powered Colors and Dolby Atmos

Description

Stunning Picture Quality Powered by AI

Testing the LG 55-Inch Class QNED85 Series has been an eye-opener, and I don’t say that lightly. The a7 Gen5 AI Processor 4K truly lives up to its promise of delivering a lifelike picture. Colors feel richer, and the depth in every frame is genuinely impressive. Watching nature documentaries on this TV, I noticed details I’d never seen before, like the subtle shades in a bird’s feathers or the texture of tree bark. The Quantum Dot NanoCell Color Technology is no marketing gimmick—it genuinely delivers richer, more accurate colors that make everything on-screen pop. If you’re a fan of visually stunning content, this feature is a game-changer.

The Mini LED Backlighting is another feature worth highlighting. It ensures deeper blacks and brighter whites, creating a contrast that makes the visuals feel more dynamic. I tested this by watching a mix of action movies and animated films, and the difference compared to my older TV is night and day. The Precision Dimming minimizes the halo effect, and it’s especially noticeable in scenes with high contrast. It’s like having a mini cinema in your living room.

Immersive Sound Experience

Let’s talk sound because the Dolby Atmos integration on this smart TV is something else. I’m one of those people who hate relying on external soundbars, and I didn’t feel the need for one with this TV. The sound feels like it’s wrapping around you, and the clarity is spot-on. Whether it’s dialogue or background music, everything sounds crisp and immersive. Pair this with Dolby Vision IQ, and you have a home theater experience that’s hard to beat.

One standout moment for me was during a live concert stream. The audio depth made it feel like I was right there in the crowd. Even my friend, who’s a bit of an audiophile, was blown away by the clarity and richness of the sound. If you’re into gaming or action-packed movies, the combination of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision IQ is an absolute treat.

Home Cinema Mode for Film Buffs

As someone who loves rewatching classics, the Filmmaker Mode is a dream come true. It adjusts the settings to display content as the creators intended. I tested this out with a few old favorites, and the difference in tone and color accuracy was remarkable. It strips away all the unnecessary enhancements, so you get a pure, unfiltered viewing experience. This feature alone makes the TV a solid choice for movie buffs.

Convenient Voice Control Features

I’ve always been skeptical about voice control on TVs, but this one surprised me. It supports Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple AirPlay, and HomeKit, making it incredibly versatile. I use Alexa at home, and integrating the TV into my setup was seamless. Switching channels, adjusting the volume, or searching for content is as easy as speaking a command. Even my tech-averse mom found it intuitive and started using it without my help.

The inclusion of Apple AirPlay is a big win for iPhone users like me. I tested it by mirroring my phone’s screen to the TV, and the process was smooth and lag-free. Whether it’s work presentations or family photo slideshows, this feature adds a layer of convenience I didn’t realize I needed.

Positives

• Vibrant and accurate colors with Quantum Dot NanoCell Technology.
• Immersive sound experience thanks to Dolby Atmos.
• Seamless voice control integration with multiple platforms.
• Filmmaker Mode for a cinema-like experience.
• Mini LED Backlighting enhances contrast and detail.

Areas for Improvement

• The remote control feels outdated compared to the TV’s advanced features.
• While the interface is user-friendly, it can be slightly laggy when switching between apps.
• The WiSA Ready feature is great, but it’s only beneficial for users with compatible audio systems, which limits its appeal.

Competitive Options

Comparing this to other 4K Smart TVs like Samsung’s Neo QLED or Sony’s Bravia XR, the LG QNED85 holds its own. The Mini LED technology is on par with Samsung’s offerings, but the Quantum Dot NanoCell combo gives LG a slight edge in color accuracy. Sony’s Bravia XR excels in motion handling, making it better for sports enthusiasts. However, when it comes to immersive sound, LG’s Dolby Atmos integration easily outshines its competitors.

What really sets this TV apart is its voice control flexibility. Samsung and Sony offer similar features, but they lack the same level of seamless integration across multiple platforms like Apple AirPlay and HomeKit. That said, Samsung’s Smart Hub interface is arguably more polished, while LG’s can feel a bit clunky at times.

Worth Every Penny

Let’s talk about whether this TV is worth the investment. Given its AI-powered 4K capabilities, Mini LED backlighting, and home cinema features, it’s hard to argue against its value. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option, the combination of advanced technology and versatility makes it a smart buy for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment system.