I wasnt convinced there was a need for the LG StanByMe 2 TV but Im
completely sold on this rollable display after 3 weeks with it

Date:
Thu, 11 Dec 2025 23:21:28 +0000

Description:
The LG StanByMe 2 is a unique TV proposition and I wasn't sure I'd find a
need for it at home how wrong I was.

FULL STORY ======================================================================LG StanByMe 2: Two-minute review

LGs StanByMe TV has admittedly been something Ive glossed over ever since the first-generation model was launched way back in 2021. A 27-inch TV on a rollable stand? Whats the point? I always wondered. While a 27-inch TV
wouldve been considered big in the late 90s or early 2000s, we now live in a time where a 48-inch TV is realistically the smallest size wed put in our living room. And with recent releases from the likes of Samsung reaching up
to 115 inches , is there really a place for a much, much smaller 27-inch screen in the home?

LG clearly didnt share my reservations, as the Korean manufacturer announced
a second-generation model at CES in January 2025 that didnt just introduce a few iterative upgrades, but instead represented a complete overhaul.

The premise is the same a TV you can move from room to room but it now offers other notable features, including a QHD panel (an increase from the 1080p full HD of the previous generation) and new viewing modes that allow
the user to watch while the screen is off its stand (its predecessor was
fixed in place).

Ill admit that I began this review as a sceptic, but after using the LG StanByMe 2 for a few weeks, Ive done a complete 180 this is a genuinely fun, cool, useful TV. Its not going to replace your main screen for watching
movies and TV shows, but thats also not its purpose.

The StanByMe 2 is a TV that you can have in the kitchen to follow along with recipes, or if you have a small bedroom, you can position it over your bed
for late-night binge watching. Its touchscreen-enabled, so you can lay it
flat on a table and have your kids play interactive games on it. You can take it away with you in the car to set up and watch content at a campsite or
hotel as it can run on battery for a while. I even used it as a second
display attached to my laptop.

The built-in battery promises up to four hours from a single charge (up from 3.5 hours in the previous model). I found this to be pretty accurate,
although do note that even when the screen is turned off, its technically in
a standby mode and will continue to use the battery. I left it turned off
over a weekend with a full charge, but it had dropped to 34% on my return three days later. A physical power button can be found on the side of the TV, and a long press will power it down completely.

The idea of the StanByMe 2 may elude people at first, but once you have one
in your life, youll wonder how you ever did without it.

Picture quality is good, although it wont rival the best TVs . Its built-in speaker system delivers a pleasing audio performance, and is on par with the performance youd get from conventional TVs. In virtually all cases, we recommend adding one of the best soundbars to boost the sound. Fortunately, you can connect it to a soundbar thanks to an HDMI eARC port, but I reckon since most people will be using the screen in a fully portable mode which is exactly how it should be used a physical connection will prove cumbersome.

The StanByMe 2 also benefits from LGs webOS operating system. At the time of writing, it uses webOS 24, but the company has confirmed the TV will receive the webOS 25 update, and it is guaranteed to receive software updates for
five years, up to webOS 28 (LG generally launches a new version each year).

Theres nothing quite like the LG StanByMe 2 out there and that makes it
tricky to score for an objective review like this. There are similar screens on the horizon from the likes of Samsung and its Movingstyle model , but
thats yet to see a wide release weve not had a chance to review it yet here at TechRadar, and Ive not personally seen it either.

As a lifestyle screen that offers a new way to consume content, the StanByMe
2 excels, but tech as unique as this demands a high price and thats my
biggest issue. As much as I would love to give it a full five stars, I have
to dock points purely because of how much LG is asking for it especially
when you compare its cost to traditional TVs. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge) LG StanByMe 2 review: Price & availability $1,299 / 1,399.99 / AU$2,199 Staggered global rollout: US July 2025, UK August 2025, Australia September 2025

The LG StanByME 2 was announced at CES in January 2025 and was made available to buy in the US from July 2025, followed by a UK launch in August and eventually making its way to Australia in September 2025.

In the US, its priced at $1,299, which is higher than the RRP of the entry-level LG B5 OLED TV in 48-inch guise ($899.99) and just below the
larger 55-inch variant ($1,499.99).

Meanwhile, in the UK, its 1,399.99, although at the time of writing this also includes an XT7S Bluetooth speaker that can attach to the TV stand and boost audio performance. For the same money, you can get a 55-inch LG C5 OLED
which we currently rate as the best TV overall .

In Australia, the StanByMe 2 has a list price of AU$2,199 about as much as the far larger 75-inch TCL C7K will set you back Down Under. The TCL features a much more capable Mini-LED backlit panel, and as our TCL C7K review proves, it impressed us with a dynamic, bright and surprisingly contrast rich
picture.

The StanByMe 2 can be on the receiving end of discounts, although these are usually reserved for the major sales events such as Black Friday. In fact, during the Black Friday sales in 2025, I spotted it for $999.99 / 1,199 / AU$1,699. These prices are much more palatable, although its still possible
to find a more capable TV for similar money. LG StanByMe 2 review: Specs

Screen type:

QHD IPS LCD panel

Refresh rate:

60Hz

HDR support:

Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG

Audio support:

Dolby Atmos

Smart TV

webOS 24 (customized version)

HDMI:

1x HDMI eARC

Battery life:

Up to 4 hours LG StanByMe 2 review: Features QHD IPS LCD panel with extensive HDR support Touchscreen for greater interaction Built-in battery with up to 4 hours battery life

As Ive already mentioned, the LG StanByMe 2 is a compact 27-inch TV that uses an edge-lit IPS LCD panel with quad HD resolution (2,560 x 1,440p) and a refresh rate of 60Hz. So, not a proper 4K screen, but it does have comprehensive HDR support in the form of Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG HDR formats.

Unlike the TVs were all familiar with today, the StanByMe 2s screen has a matte coating that slightly reduces image quality, but it helps minimize reflections and prevent fingerprints when youre supporting it for rolling to
a different room. The matte coating isnt the same, or similar, as the anti-glare panel of the Samsung S95F , as that screen is actually able to absorb light and dissipate over the displays surface. I would liken it more
to a PC monitor.

Where the StanByMe 2 also differs from conventional TVs is that its touchscreen-enabled. Thanks to this functionality, youre able to use your fingers to interact with it, whether it be loading up the built-in sketchpad application to doodle or jot down notes, or playing games that come pre-installed (more games are available via the LG app store). I cant see
many people using it to create shopping lists, say, but it can be hung on a wall-mounted hook (included) allowing you to easily see reminders for each day. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

The touchscreen functionality also means youre able to swipe between home screen menus and press on any app YouTube, Netflix, et al to open it, but thats all. You cant use this functionality when youre within these streaming apps. You cant press the screen to play or pause content, for example. When using streaming apps, youll need to use the remote control or the on-screen controls that appear in the bottom right corner when you touch the display.

Where the StanByMe 2 shines is what LG intended it for a portable screen
that can be used where a larger display would be handy. For example, I used
it in the kitchen, where I loaded up a YouTube video telling me how to make the perfect mashed potato. I was able to position the StanByMe 2 over my kitchen island and follow along with ease. Watching the same video on a smartphone screen just wasnt as effective, and I dont own a tablet or a smart display. Of course, given the StanByMe 2s price, it would be cheaper to opt for the smaller devices, but the convenience of having the larger display is something I appreciated.

I also positioned the TV over my dining table, where I sit when I work from home. Again, I found myself streaming YouTube videos to play in the
background and would occasionally glance up at the screen. Without the TV, I would either have the same video playing on a separate tab on my computer. I also mirrored the screen of my MacBook Pro thanks to the StanByMes AirPlay support, allowing me to use it as a second display. These werent groundbreaking changes to my normal routine by any stretch, but I found
having the StanByMe 2 on, er, standby, incredibly useful. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

When its connected to the rollable stand, you can plug a mains power cable into its base to use the StanBy Me 2 like a regular TV, but if you remove the power cable, or remove the TV from its stand, the internal battery takes over and youll get no more than 4 hours of playtime on a single charge.

However, youll need to be mindful that this is only when it's in Eco power mode, which isnt on by default. If you use the screen in a different mode, then battery life takes a major hit. I turned it on after (unknowingly) leaving it on standby for three days to find the battery had dropped from
100% to 34%. I then watched a 30-minute YouTube video, and the battery level dropped to 9%.

You can power down the TV completely by long pressing on the power button on the left side of the screen. Recharging the battery to full takes around 3 hours in standby mode and 3.5 hours when the TV is in use. Features score: 4
/ 5 LG StanByMe 2 review: Picture quality Good color reproduction Decent blacks considering backlight constraints No Filmmaker Mode

LGs QNED81 from 2023 impressed me with its color reproduction despite using an edge-lit system, and the StanByMe 2 which also uses an edge-lit panel shows similar strengths. Images are vibrant and punchy, and with brighter, more colorful content such as A Minecraft Movie the screen delivers a natural-looking image with convincing real-world textures. Fireball
explosions appear as paler oranges or yellows, it must be said, rather than intense reds youd get on a higher-contrast display, but overall its a
pleasing presentation.

The StanByMe 2 also handled a 4K HDR demo reel from LGs YouTube channel
better than expected. Blacks looked reasonably convincing and central highlights remained clear and detailed. Compared side-by-side with LGs flagship G5 OLED , there was a clear difference in quality. The G5 was vastly superior, but thats to be expected given the vast difference in panel technologies. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

In dimly lit environments, the StanByMe 2s brightness performance was more than adequate. LG doesnt quote a brightness figure and I wasnt able to
measure it myself, but with the panel brightness set appropriately 100 in most cases I had no issues seeing detail or maintaining color impact. For darker content, I found isf Expert Dark to be the best-performing picture preset. The isf Expert Bright over-exposed the image too much for my liking, and Cinema introduced too much of a yellow tinge.

That said, the StanByMe 2s picture performance is ultimately held back by the limitations of the QHD panel, edge-light system and matte coating. The combination of these means it struggles to render contrast with absolute precision. Larger areas of the panel can light up when they ideally shouldnt, because the edge-lit system projects light over a greater portion of the screen.

TVs with more advanced backlight systems such as OLED TVs from LG, Samsung and Sony, or even Mini-LED TVs from more budget-focused brands such as TCL
and Hisense can be more precise with which areas of the image are lit and which arent, resulting in more cinematic-looking picture. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

In the case of the StanByMe 2, then, images can look flat in comparison, especially in HDR scenes that require competent backlighting systems to look their best.

Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro is an included feature on the StanByMe 2, which theoretically analyzes each frame to optimize brightness and contrast, but in practice its impact is modest. With the backlight effectively on most of the time due to the panel type, this feature can only do so much.

These limitations are apparent with darker content. In The Batman s Penguin car chase scene on HBO Max, black weren't inky, but more a very dark charcoal grey. To get the best image, I had to push the panel brightness to 100. The
TV also lacks a Filmmaker Mode and the Dolby Vision Filmmaker modes that appear on LGs higher-end QNED and OLED TV models.

Because of these inherent constraints, the StanByMe 2 is best viewed in
dimmer environments and isnt well suited to being your primary screen for movie watching. Picture quality score: 3.5 / 5 LG StanByMe 2 review: Sound quality Dolby Atmos support AI Sound mode with virtual 9.1.2 up-mix Fine for most tasks, but not intense movie watching

As with picture quality, the StanByMe 2s audio performance isnt anything extraordinary. But again, this isnt a TV designed to be your main entertainment system. Instead, its designed to be a supplementary screen in your home.

The good news is that the built-in speakers can be reasonably loud and dialogue is clear. What it lacks is low-end presence especially in movie scenes with explosions. The AI Sound Pro mode is the best option in my opinion, as it helps create a more expansive soundstage. (Image credit:
Future / Max Langridge)

You do have options to improve the audio output, either by physically connecting to a soundbar or other external audio device via HDMI eARC, or wirelessly to a Bluetooth speaker or pair of active speakers. I do think a physical connection will be cumbersome for most users, particularly if the TV is connected to its stand. That said, you could always hang it on the
included hook and have a cable trailing down to a soundbar on a unit beneath.

I had a pair of KEF Coda W speakers on hand and, once connected to the LG,
the difference was dramatic. I also paired a Beats Pill and even that
portable Bluetooth speaker delivered noticeably better sound than the TVs built-in speakers.

What this experiment really highlighted for me was how the LG StanByMe 2
gives you options, both in terms of how you use it to consume content and how you can get sound out of it. You dont get such versatility from traditional TVs and this really is where the StanByMe 2 genuinely stands out. Sound quality score: 4 / 5 LG StanByMe 2 review: Design Multiple viewing modes Good selection of connections Useful design touches (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

As Ive alluded to already in this review, the StanByMe 2 isnt designed to replace a traditional TV. Its headline feature is its ability to be used in a variety of viewing positions. The main position the one thats likely to be used the most sees it being attached to a rollable stand. The first-generation StanByMe was permanently attached to its stand, so its great that the new model can detach, expanding its usability.

The stand is relatively heavy at 10.9kg / 24 lbs and its wheels are silent when rolling around, but theyre definitely smoother on hard floors compared
to carpet.

The stand has two sections: a fixed-height main pole and an adjustable arm that can raise the screen up and down a few inches. The base plays host to a power point, which is used to charge the TVs built-in battery.

When you want to detach the TV from the stand to use in tabletop mode, you need to press a large central button on the rear panel of the TV and pull it forward. Because the TV itself is quite light at 4.3kg / 9.5lbs, its easy enough to hold onto the screen with one hand, and press the button with the other. And thanks to its lightweight build, you shouldnt have too much of an issue carrying it around.

To use the StanByMe 2 in tabletop mode, you need to clip in a supplied kickstand on the rear of the screen, and slot the folio cover into two holes along the bottom edge. The folio cover then folds around to the back of the screen and slots into the kickstand.

The final viewing mode is hanging it up on a hook against a wall. The hook needs to be drilled into the wall, so it wasnt something I could test for
this review. I own my home, but with my review sample only being on loan, I didnt want a hole left in my wall when it was returned. Once the hook is mounted, you can attach a strap to the StanByMe 2 to hang it. You can hang it in either portrait or landscape orientation, and besides watching TV, you could activate one of the many wallpapers or screensavers, which include weather and calendar information, a now playing screen when playing music, or a digital photo album. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

LGs listing information for the TV also shows a person hanging this strap
over their shoulder with the TV in landscape mode similar to a messenger
bag. But who wants or needs to hang a 27-inch TV over their shoulder?

A remote control is supplied with the StanByMe 2, which I expected to be similar to the one used by LGs other TVs, but there are a few design changes.

Perhaps the coolest function is the fact that the remote can magnetically attach to the top edge of the TV (when its in landscape mode) or to the folio cover when its in tabletop mode, so you dont have to worry about losing it.

The biggest difference between this remote and the one youd get with a
regular LG TV is that it loses the Magic Remote functionality, i.e. you cant use it to move a pointer around the screen as you can on an LG TV. If you
have an LG Magic Remote at home, or you purchase one separately, then you can benefit from the pointer function as its compatible with the StanByMe 2.

Theres a small selection of connections on the StanByMe 2, including an HDMI eARC for connecting to a soundbar to boost audio output, or to a laptop or PC so the TV can moonlight as a second screen. Theres also a USB-C port on the side for connecting external devices and power banks, and another USB-C port on the top edge for connecting a webcam.

LG says the USB-C port can also charge the screen TV when its not connected
to the stand, but I struggled to get this working, even when using my MacBook Pros power brick. The user manual states you need a charger capable of either 65W (20V/3.25A) or100W (20V/5A) output, a criteria my MacBooks charger satisfies. Design score: 4.5 / 5 LG StanByMe 2 review: Smart TV & menus Customized version of webOS Five years of upgrades promised No on-screen adverts! (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

The LG StanByMe 2 uses a customized version of the companys well-received webOS operating system. If you were to look at the version used here side-by-side with a regular LG TV, youll easily spot the differences.

Two rows of apps dominate a large portion of the StanByMe 2s screen, as opposed to a single line on the companys regular TVs, with the familiar cards for dedicated hubs Home Office, Game, Music just above. Whats pleasing to see in this instance is that there arent any on-screen ads or promotions in sight. The regular version of webOS will display on-screen adverts and even screensaver ads (unless you turn them off ), so their complete absence is a welcome change.

From the home screen, if you move left either by pressing the left button on the remotes d-pad, or swiping youre met with a screen displaying calendar
and weather information, quick access to various wallpapers and a sketch pad. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)

The TV also supports Google Cast and Apple AirPlay, so you can beam content from your phone or laptop directly to it. I used the Screen Mirror function
to extend my MacBooks display and use the LG as a second monitor. It was a seamless process and even moving browser windows over to the LG worked as smoothly as if I had a dedicated monitor physically connected to my laptop.

Setting adjustments are as slick as Ive come to expect from LG, having used the companys G-series OLED over the past three generations. Pressing the settings button on the remote brings up a Quick Menu that appears as a transparent overlay in the top left of the screen, which allows you to
quickly change picture, sound and other settings. Smart TV and menu score: 5
/ 5 LG StanByMe 2 review: Value Pricey compared to larger, more conventional TVs Other rollable TVs exist, which can be found for less Ultimately not fantastic overall value

With a price tag of $1,299 / 1399.99 / AU$2,199, the LG StanByMe 2 is undoubtedly expensive compared to traditional TVs, which can cost much less, come in bigger screen sizes and benefit from more capable displays.

Plus, a quick search online reveals similar rollable TVs in markets including the US, UK and Australia. We've not reviewed them here at TechRadar, so can't comment on their performance, but the fact remains the LG StanByMe 2 isn't
the only one of its kind.

If you can find it at a discounted price, its a lot easier to recommend, because what the TV has going for its uniqueness. LG classes the StanByMe 2
as a lifestyle TV and I couldnt agree more. Its not going to replace a main
TV in your home, but is designed to be an addition that can make your daily routine more convenient.

Theres certainly a case to be made for its existence then, but youll need to seriously consider whether its worth the premium price tag. Value score 2.5 / 5 (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge) Should I buy the LG StanByMe 2? LG StanByMe 2 score card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

It lives up to its lifestyle credentials with a variety of viewing modes, connections and interactivity options.

4/5

Picture quality

Its not going to replace a conventional TV, but it does more than enough to meet the brief of being a lifestyle screen

3.5/5

Sound quality

Clear dialogue and expansive sound, with the option to improve it via various methods

4/5

Design

A range of viewing modes and some useful physical connection options make the StanByMe 2 one of the most versatile screens out there.

4/5

Smart TV and menus

LGs webOS platform is always a joy to use and the customized version here continues that trend.

5/5

Value

A fun, cool TV thats supremely versatile, but theres no denying its expensive compared to traditional screens.

2.5/5 Buy it if...

You want a versatile TV

The StanByMe 2 can be used in a variety of viewing modes and is easy to move between rooms in your home.

You want a smaller TV

At 27 inches, the StanByMe 2 should be easy to accommodate in most spaces, plus it can be taken away with you in the car. Don't buy it if...

You want the best possible picture quality

The limitations of the LCD panel mean the StanByMe 2 simply cant deliver the absolute best picture quality. LG StanByMe 2 review: Also consider

LG B5 (48-inch)

I've already mentioned the LG B5 in this review for several reasons. Most notably, it offers a dramatic leap in picture quality thanks to its OLED panel, and in 48-inch guise, it's often more affordable than the StanByMe 2.

Read our full LG B5 review View Deal

Sony A90K (42-inch)

It's quite tricky to find a 'small' screen TV these days, but the Sony A90K continues to be sold in a 42-inch size. It was released in 2022, yet the Japanese brand hasn't felt the need to update it. We've not given it the full in-depth review treatment, but some hands-on time revealed it to be a
talented performer. We just wish it wasn't so expensive! View Deal How I tested the LG StanByMe 2 Used at home and tried most viewing modes Watched a range of content from various streaming services Let it run on battery power to test stamina

I tested the LG StanByMe 2 over a period of about 3 weeks at home. I used
most of its viewing modes, including attaching it to its stand and using the folio cover. I wasn't able to test its hanging mode, as I wasn't prepared to drill a hole into my wall.

I watched a variety of dark and bright content from a number of streaming services, including The Batman and A Minecraft Movie on HBO Max. I also
tested its ability to connect to external audio devices via Bluetooth to improve sound output. First reviewed: December 2025 Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee



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