LG 32UN500-W Monitor: A 32-Inch 4K Display That Won't Break the Bank

At $289, the LG 32UN500-W stands out in the crowded monitor market. With 90% DCI-P3 color coverage and true 4K resolution, this 32-inch display challenges the notion that quality comes with a premium price tag. I've spent considerable time testing this monitor, and there's more to this budget-friendly powerhouse than meets the eye.

The LG 32UN500-W incorporates a sleek 3-side borderless design that maximizes screen real estate while minimizing distractions. At 28.1 x 20.2 x 8.2 inches, this monitor commands attention without overwhelming desk space. The 16.9-pound weight provides substantial stability, particularly important for a display of this size. The 100 x 100mm VESA mount compatibility offers flexibility in workspace optimization. Users can easily mount the monitor on compatible arms or wall brackets, freeing up valuable desk space and enabling optimal viewing angles.

The 31.5-inch VA panel delivers impressive visual performance with its 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution. The VA technology achieves a remarkable 3000:1 contrast ratio, producing deeper blacks and more vibrant whites compared to traditional IPS panels. Color reproduction excels with 90% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, while the 350 cd/m² brightness rating ensures clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The HDR10 support enhances content consumption, though the implementation remains basic without advanced local dimming capabilities.

AMD FreeSync technology synchronizes the monitor's refresh rate with compatible graphics cards, eliminating screen tearing during gaming sessions. The 60Hz refresh rate provides smooth performance for casual gaming and content consumption, though competitive gamers might prefer higher refresh rates. The 5ms GTG response time handles motion adequately for most applications. The dual 5W built-in speakers deliver convenient audio output for basic needs, though dedicated speakers or headphones would better serve audiophiles.

Dual HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort 1.4 connection support multiple device connections at 4K 60Hz. The 3.5mm audio output enables private listening through headphones or external speakers. This connectivity array facilitates efficient multi-device setups, ideal for users who frequently switch between sources. Full 4K resolution requires appropriate high-bandwidth cables, specifically HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.4, to maintain optimal performance at 60Hz refresh rates.

Content creators benefit from the monitor's accurate color reproduction and high resolution. The large screen space accommodates multiple windows and complex workflows, enhancing productivity for video editing, graphic design, and photo manipulation tasks. Office workers appreciate the Reader Mode, which reduces blue light emission for extended viewing comfort. The 178-degree viewing angles maintain color consistency across the screen, particularly valuable during presentations or collaborative work sessions.

The LG 32UN500-W proves that affordable 4K monitors can deliver professional-grade performance. While it may not compete with premium displays costing twice as much, it offers remarkable value for content creators, office professionals, and casual gamers. For those seeking a large, high-resolution display without premium pricing, this monitor deserves serious consideration. Ready to upgrade your setup? Check current pricing and availability on Amazon to make an informed decision.