Say goodbye to cable chaos and hello to the future of TV with the LG M5 (OLED65M5). But here's where it gets controversial: while it's not the completely wireless dream we envisioned, it's a groundbreaking leap forward. This OLED TV ditches most cables, offering a sleek, minimalist design without sacrificing the stunning picture quality LG is renowned for. And this is the part most people miss: its wireless sound and video transmission is a game-changer, delivering uncompromised performance that will leave gamers and cinephiles alike in awe.
The Good:
Mind-blowing contrast and local light control: Experience blacks so deep they'll make you question reality and highlights so bright they'll dazzle.
Next-level brightness: LG's Primary RGB Tandem OLED technology pushes brightness boundaries, making HDR content pop like never before.
Wireless wizardry: The Zero Connect Box transmits 4K video at up to 144Hz and Dolby Atmos sound wirelessly, with no noticeable lag or quality loss. It's like magic, but real.
The Not-So-Good:
Occasional color banding: Some faint color banding may appear in scenes with complex gradients.
Limited HDMI ports: Only three HDMI 2.1 ports might be a constraint for avid gamers or home theater enthusiasts.
Sluggish menus: Navigating the smart TV interface can feel a tad slow at times.
Design-wise, the M5 is a stunner. Its ultra-thin profile and minimal bezel create a 'picture from nowhere' effect, especially when wall-mounted. The external Zero Connect Box, while less aesthetically pleasing, is compact and can be hidden away easily thanks to its impressive 10-meter wireless range and lack of line-of-sight requirement.
Features? This TV has them in spades. From LG's latest Alpha 11 processor with its AI-powered picture and sound enhancements to the comprehensive webOS smart platform, the M5 is packed with cutting-edge tech. Gamers will appreciate the 4K/120Hz (and even 144Hz) support, VRR, and ALLM, while cinephiles will revel in the Filmmaker Mode and support for HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision.
Picture quality is where the M5 truly shines. While our side-by-side comparison with the LG G5 revealed slight differences in color tone and black levels, both TVs delivered breathtaking visuals. The M5's wireless transmission proved flawless, with no noticeable degradation in picture quality. In fact, some scenes appeared slightly sharper and more detailed on the M5.
Sound quality is good, but not great. The default Dolby Atmos setting feels muted, but LG's AI Sound Pro mode significantly improves things, creating a more immersive and spacious soundscape. However, for the ultimate audio experience, pairing the M5 with a dedicated sound system is recommended.
Verdict: The LG M5 is a premium TV that justifies its price tag. Its wireless capabilities are a game-changer, offering unparalleled convenience without compromising performance. While some gamers might prefer the G5's slightly lower input lag and 165Hz support, the M5's sleek design, stunning picture quality, and innovative features make it a top choice for anyone seeking a truly futuristic TV experience.
Food for thought: Is the future of TV truly wireless? While the M5 takes a giant leap forward, the need for a separate Zero Connect Box raises questions about the practicality of a completely cable-free setup. What do you think? Is the convenience worth the trade-offs?
