From HDTVs to computer monitors and beyond, 4K display
technology is finally hitting the mainstream. But this exciting innovation
still faces a couple of big barriers.
If you’re still harboring doubts that 4K (aka Ultra HD) is
the new 3D - in other words, if you think it’s probably a momentary fad of
dubious quality that will soon fade in importance - then banish them. Whether
you see it on a TV or a computer, 4K is much better than 3D - its level of
detail can only be described as photorealistic.
The video format, which displays about four times the amount
of content as traditional 1080p HD, has been slow to gain adoption, and the
first TVs that used it cost upwards of $20,000. That’s already history. Now
that the big names are involved with televisions in the mid-four-figure range -
still too dear for most of us, but not unlike what big-screen plasma TVs cost
in, say, 2005 - and computer monitors and systems supporting it are also
appearing, it’s time to take a closer look at what 4K gets you, and whether
it’s worth getting for yourself.
4K is much better
than 3D
What is 4K?
The Consumer Electronics Association defines 4K as
displaying at least 8 million active pixels, with a minimum resolution of 3,840
by 2,160. Though there’s no official standard beyond that yet, most companies
have decided to use this resolution rather than others that have appeared in
some products (such as 4,096 by 3,112).
HDTVs
Like almost all technology products, 4K HDTVs vary widely in
price, even among “reasonable” consumer offerings. One of the lowest-priced
sets we’ve seen is $1,500, and models that cost $5,000 or more are not
uncommon. And, as is also true of technology products, you tend to get what you
pay for - especially if you’re an early adopter.
The first 4K HDTV we tested was the 50-inch Seiki SE50UY04,
which cost a “mere” $1,500. Though it remains the least-expensive such set
we’ve seen, it’s not without display quality problems that make it an iffy
choice at best, even if you’re desperate to get one of these bleeding-edge
marvels into your home.
4K HDTVs vary
widely in price
Far better - and, naturally, far more expensive - is the
most recent 4K TV we’ve tested: the LG 65LA9700. Loaded with features and
boasting outstanding picture quality, the 65-inch 65LA9700 also sports a
punishing price tag of $6,499.99. (You can easily find 65-inch, 1080p HDTVs for
$1,200 or less.)
Other companies have also announced sets in recent months
that are more innovative still. Both Samsung and LG, for example, have teased
OLED 4K sets for even more detailed picture quality. Here again, though, is the
price problem: LG’s 55-inch OLED TV is expected to retail for around $10,000.
Seiki SE50UY04
It’s tough to find a 4K TV that costs much less than the Seiki
SE50UY04, but underwhelming color accuracy and shadow and highlight detail
prevent it from being a bargain if you really value picture quality.
Seiki SE50UY04
Specifications
·
Price: $1,499.99
·
Screen size: 50 inch
·
Viewing angle: 176 degrees
·
Viewing angle (vertical): 176 degrees
·
Backlight technology: LED backlight technology
·
Backlight type (LED): Edge-lit
·
Native resolution: 3840 x 2160
·
Refresh rate: 120 Hz
·
Aspect ratio: 16:9
·
Response time (ms): 6.5 ms
·
Contrast ratio: 5000:1
·
Connectivity: HDMI ports qty x 3
·
Dimensions: 44.8 x 9.84 x 28.66 inch
·
Weight: 22.3 kg
·
Overall: 3.5/5
LG 65LA9700
LG’s new flagship 4K set offers outstanding picture quality,
and terrific features such as a motorized retractable speaker bar and a full
LED backlighting array. There’s some backlight blooming, though, and the TV’s
cool-sounding motion-activated commands work erratically at best.
LG 65LA9700
Specifications
·
Price: $6,499
·
Screen size: 65 inch
·
Viewing angle: 178 degrees
·
3D: Passive 3D
·
3D glasses & accessories: 3D glasses (4pcs) included
·
Connectivity: MHL, Wi-Fi Direct, WiDi, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, NFC
·
Smart TV: Yes
·
Internet streaming services: Hulu Plus, Netflix, YouTube,
ConnectShare Movie, Rhapsody, Vudu, MLB.TV, Pandora, AccuWeather, Facebook,
Picasa, Twitter
·
Skype details: Skype ready, Built-in retractable camera
·
TV features: Tru-Ultra HD Engine, Dual Core processor,
Incorporated sliding sound bar (4.1ch), Resolution upscaler, Picture Wizard,
Clear Voice II, SimpLink (HDMI CEC), Home Dashboard 3.0, LG Cloud, SmartShare
Plus, Windows 8 Certified, Full web browser, Smartphone App (iOS / Android),
Two-player games on the same screen Video
·
Backlight technology: LED backlight technology
·
Backlight type (LED): Nano Full LED
·
Native resolution: 3840 x 2160
·
Resolution: 4K UHDTV (2160p)
·
Motion Enhancement Technology: TruMotion 240Hz
·
Connectivity: HDMI ports qty x 3
·
Remote Control: Magic remote
·
Dimensions: 57.13 x 12.80 x 35.83 inch - With stand
·
Weight: 97.44 mg
·
Overall: 4/5
