LG 47LW550T review

For this review we tested the 47in model in the LW550T range, but it’s also available in 42in (42LW550T) and 55in (55LW550T) screen sizes. All models have identical specifications except for their dimensions and power usage. We’re confident that image quality will be practically identical across the range.

Although it isn’t technically LG’s range-topping model (that plaudit goes to the LW650T), the LW550T has an extensive list of features that should tick all the boxes for anyone looking to upgrade their old TV.

With a 47in full HD display panel, this is certainly a TV for the living room rather than an office or bedroom. A thin plastic display bezel looks good, but isn’t as sturdy as the ones we’ve seen from Panasonic and Sony. Against the right background, the silver stand gives the impression that the screen itself is floating, but it’s still no comparison to how it would look once wall-mounted.

Around the back, there are plenty of connections: four HDMI inputs, component, composite, Scart and VGA inputs, as well as optical S/PDIF and analogue audio outputs are split between the rear and side of the set. There are two USB ports, which can be used to play multimedia files, but not for recording television broadcasts. We were impressed with the speakers: they managed to produce a well-rounded sound, and were louder than most.

Also included is an Ethernet port; like a lot of higher-end TVs this year, LG has included internet services (known as Smart TV) in the LW550T. There aren’t many exciting services, though. Facebook, Google Maps, Twitter and YouTube are par for the course, but catch-up TV courtesy of BBC iPlayer is undoubtedly the highlight. You can watch HD programmes in iPlayer on the LW550T, subject to the speed of your internet connection. It’s a shame that the Smart TV interface felt so sluggish when moving between menus, as it looks very good and has a sensible layout, unlike the remote control.