The line between monitors and televisions continues to blur, with some using TVs as monitors and others using monitors like TVs. The LG MyView 32SR85U falls into the latter category. This 32-inch 4K monitor boasts LG’s webOS, offering access to streaming apps and smart home device control. It even comes with a webcam. But does its performance match its feature set? Let’s dive in.
Specs and Features: A Mixed Bag
The 32SR85U’s specifications are typical for a 32-inch 4K monitor in its price range:
- Display Size: 32-inch 16:9 widescreen
- Resolution: 3840×2160
- Panel Type: IPS
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Adaptive Sync: None
- HDR: HDR10
- Ports: 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x USB-C upstream (DisplayPort, 90W Power Delivery), 2x USB-C downstream
- Wireless: AirPlay, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- VESA Mount: 100x100mm
- Speakers: 2x 5-watt
Standout features include the 90W USB-C Power Delivery for charging devices, LG’s webOS for streaming apps, and support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay.
Design: Minimalist But Inflexible
The 32SR85U sports a clean, all-white aesthetic, suitable for most home office setups. The L-shaped stand minimizes desk space, but lacks swivel and pivot functionality, limiting ergonomic adjustments. The stand’s attachment mechanism, requiring two Phillips head screws, is also unusual for this price point. A 100x100mm VESA mount is included for alternative mounting options.
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Connectivity: USB-C Focus, No DisplayPort
LG opts for an unconventional approach to video inputs, offering two HDMI ports and a USB-C upstream port with DisplayPort and 90W Power Delivery. However, a dedicated DisplayPort input is absent. The monitor also functions as a USB-C hub with two downstream ports but lacks USB-A ports and KVM functionality. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay, enabling access to streaming services and wireless device connections.
Smart Features: webOS Functionality, Sluggish Performance
While lacking a TV tuner, the 32SR85U effectively functions as a smart TV thanks to LG’s webOS. It provides access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, as well as cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Amazon Luna. Initial setup is required, similar to setting up a smart TV. However, the webOS interface feels sluggish, particularly when switching between apps and the desktop.
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Camera and Speakers: Basic and Unremarkable
The included magnetic webcam offers average image quality, comparable to a mid-range laptop webcam. The 5-watt speakers provide adequate sound for casual listening but lack depth and clarity, making external speakers or a soundbar a worthwhile investment.
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SDR Image Quality: Contrast and Color Gamut Fall Short
The 32SR85U’s SDR image quality is its biggest weakness. While achieving a decent 311 nits of brightness, its contrast ratio of 950:1 is subpar, resulting in washed-out blacks and noticeable IPS glow. The color gamut, covering 90 percent of DCI-P3 and 84 percent of Adobe RGB, is also limited compared to modern monitors. Color accuracy is excellent, however, and sharpness is impressive thanks to the 4K resolution.
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HDR Performance: Underwhelming
The 32SR85U’s HDR performance is equally disappointing, reaching a peak brightness of only 372 nits. This, combined with the low contrast ratio, results in a lackluster HDR experience.
Motion Performance: Basic 60Hz
With a 60Hz refresh rate and no Adaptive Sync, motion clarity is acceptable for everyday use but suffers from noticeable blur in fast-paced games.
Conclusion: Features Don’t Compensate for Visual Shortcomings
The LG MyView 32SR85U offers a compelling feature set, including webOS, a webcam, and wireless connectivity. However, its subpar SDR image quality, particularly the low contrast ratio, significantly detracts from the overall experience. While its smart features are appealing, they are undermined by the monitor’s inability to deliver a visually satisfying viewing experience. For users prioritizing image quality, other options in this price range may be more suitable.
