When LG contacted me about reviewing the StanbyME 2 portable touch screen my first thought was “where am I going to put it”? The answer is “anywhere you want it to be”.
It’s basically 27-inch TV on a rollable stand that can plug into wall power or run off a batter for a few hours so I was genuinely excited to see how this kind of flexibility could actually change the way screens can be used at home.
More Than Just a Screen on Wheels
I have to say that I didn’t get hands on with the original StanbyME defice, but it this new release appears to be quite an upgrade with a QHD panel offering great clarity, especially when you’re using it up close.
But the real game-changer is the new viewing modes. Unlike its predecessor, which was fixed to the stand, you can now detach the screen entirely.
Whether you want it in tabletop mode to play interactive touchscreen games or hanging on a wall-mounted hook, it feels like a truly “go-anywhere” device.
What did I do with the StanbyME 2
Here’s some of things I found it useful for.
-
Dining Room TV: Our dining room ajoins the kitchen and there’s never been a really good spot to permanently put a TV. With the stand on wheels we don’t have to find a surface to put a TV on.
You can access many of the popular streaming subscription services like Netflix, Apple TV, Binge etc but also the free to air streaming apps like Nine Now and 7+. -
The Home Office: A very handly second monitor either on it’s wheel stand or table stand.
-
BBQ & TV: Wheel the StanbyME 2 out onto the front deck and I can watch the news while the snags and steaks cook.
What I didn’t do with the TV…yet
- Hanging: I didn’t want to put a hole in the wall this week, but you can hang the screen like artwork.
Performance and Battery
The picture quality is vibrant and punchy, and while it won’t replace a high-end OLED for a dedicated movie night, it’s more than capable for daily streaming. The built-in battery lasts about four hours, which I found to be pretty accurate in “Eco” mode. It’s more than enough to get through a movie or a few of your favourite series episodes. The built in speakers are generally ok. For me if I really wanted to focus on the sound from the screen I would pair it with bluetooth speakers or headphones.
The Price
If you were jus wanting a TV you’d get more bang for you buck, but with the LG StandbyME 2, you’re really buying into the portability and convenience of a screen that has multiple functions.
With a RRP of around $2,199, it’s a premium investment, but if you’re keen shop around as I’ve seen it a few hundred dollars cheaper.
If you’ve been waiting for a screen that adapts to your lifestyle rather than making you adapt to it, this is definitely the one to watch.
