In the not so recent past, it seemed that the future of television was pretty straightforward. There would be pitched battles for display resolutions; “smarter” Smart TV features, a debate about the benefit of higher or lower refresh rates and perhaps, even panel types—“my panel has better colour richness and viewing angles than your panel”. But the curve complicated matters.
At present, two curved TV screens from LG and Samsung—Full High Definition (HD) and Ultra HD (UHD) panels—are available in India. To help you understand curve panels, the real-world benefits and whether you should be investing in one, here’s a reality check.
Manufacturers say the wrap-around feel tends to add more to the viewer’s peripheral vision—by moving parts of the image slightly forward.
Our opinion: Strongly disagree
While this may be true for a screen in a cinema hall, the wrap-around feel may not really work with a 46-inch, 55-inch or even 70-inch screen when the viewer may be sitting 5-7ft away. If you sit any closer, it gives you a tad better cinematic experience, but poses a risk to eyesight and health. Do not just buy a curved TV believing the cinema is coming home.
2D content looks like 3D
Manufacturers will tell you that the enhanced sense of depth will offer viewers the illusion of 3D content.
Our opinion: Somewhat agree
It is a real stretch to say that the curved panel makes 2D content look like 3D, but what it certainly does is improve the visual perception of depth, by moving certain parts more towards the viewer than the rest. It’s definitely better than flat-screen TVs. What will also have an impact on this experience is the panel’s ability to dim certain parts of the screen while illuminating the rest, to enhance that perception of depth.
Better viewing from the side
Going by what manufacturers claim, the curve is meant to enhance viewing angles for those not sitting directly in front of the TV.
Our opinion: Strongly agree
From what we have observed, there really is no urgent need to find the sweet spot for the most immersive viewing experience. Ideally, exactly in front of the screen is the best place to be, but the curve enhances the viewing arc for those seated on the side. For most homes, this will mean a significantly improved viewing experience.
Here we review the two curved TVs that are available.
Samsung HU9000 Curved UHD TV
Rs.3,29,900 (55 inches) and Rs.4,49,900 (65 inches)
The latest Samsung Curved UHD TV, the 65-inch HU9000, does away with the reflective glass above the HU9000’s display, so there are no annoying reflections in a bright room. For most homes, this will make viewing a lot more comfortable. The full metal panel looks sophisticated, and feels well put together. The redesigned tabletop stand seems inspired by modern-day minimalist designs. It is big enough to keep the OneConnect box, which holds all the audio and video connectivity options.
While the content is limited, if you do get hold of some Ultra HD movies, the HU9000’s performance impresses. The viewing angles are excellent and the PurColour feature makes the picture look richer. Even Full HD (1,080 pixels) content looks quite good, considering the TV itself does resolution upscaling on the fly. However, no amount of upconversion can really improve lower-resolution content—720 pixels and below.
The remote can work like any traditional remote, with all the usual keys. Alternatively, it has motion sensors, allowing you to wave it around to control the pointer on the screen. The TV also has voice- and hand-gesture controls, but we still aren’t sold on the idea of talking to your TV to control the volume.
A UHD TV is not meant for the daily dose of soaps on satellite channels. In fact, all UHD, 3,840x2,160-pixel resolution televisions at the moment are a case of two halves, one impressive, one not so much, depending on the content you play. Blu-ray and really high-quality HD movies make sense, but a normal direct-to-home connection or a DVD doesn’t.
LG EA9800
Rs.9,99,000 (55 inches)
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LG EA 9800
This TV has been in the market since the beginning of the year, but nothing takes away from what LG proclaims is the “world’s first Curved OLED TV”. The EA9800 has an unbelievably slim profile, and the integrated acrylic stand provides a solid platform that looks classy. The organic light emitting diode panel takes advantage of an individual light-emitting diode on each pixel, to provide deep black levels. LG adds a white pixel each to the red, green and blue (RGB) pixel system to enhance colour across the board.Unfortunately, the reflective glass on the screen does mean you might need to turn off the room’s lights for more comfortable viewing. This panel is Full HD, which means it will handle low-resolution content much better than the higher- resolution Ultra HD. Undoubtedly a beautiful design, it would appeal to anyone who wants an expensive attraction for the living room.
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