SuperSonic SC-499 is a portable widescreen LCD with a digital TV tuner. It has a built-in rechargeable battery and a convenient carrying handle that makes it easy to take on the go. The screen size of this display is 9 inches, and it features a widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9. The SuperSonic SC-499 is ideal for use in cars, RVs, and other places with a portable display is needed. This review will discuss the technology used in this display, its picture quality, HDR performance, motion handling, viewing angles, and other features.
Technology
The SuperSonic SC-499 features an LCD panel with an 800 x 480 pixels resolution. It uses LED backlighting technology that helps to improve the brightness and contrast of the images displayed on the screen. The display also features a digital TV tuner that allows you to receive digital TV signals without needing an external converter box. This feature makes it easy to watch TV on the go, especially traveling in areas with good reception.
Picture Quality
The picture quality of the SuperSonic SC-499 is quite impressive for a portable display. The 9-inch screen size is adequate for watching TV shows, movies, and other content, although it may only be suitable for some groups. The LCD panel provides sharp, clear images with good color reproduction and contrast. However, the resolution of 800 x 480 pixels is not high enough to display fine details, so that you may notice some pixelation in certain scenes.
HDR Performance
The SuperSonic SC-499 does not support HDR (High Dynamic Range) content. This means that you will not be able to enjoy the full benefits of HDR content, which includes a wider range of colors, increased contrast, and improved brightness. However, this is not a major issue for a portable display of this size, as HDR content still needs to be widely available for smaller screens.
Motion Handling
The SuperSonic SC-499 has a response time of 30ms, which is quite slow compared to larger displays. This means that fast-moving scenes may appear blurry or suffer from motion artifacts. However, for the most part, the motion handling is adequate for a portable display, and you should be able to enjoy movies and TV shows without any major issues.
Viewing Angles
The viewing angles of the SuperSonic SC-499 are limited, as is typical for LCDs. You will notice decreased image quality when viewing the display from angles greater than 45 degrees. This means the display may not be suitable for sharing with others, especially in cramped spaces like cars or RVs.
Smart Features
The SuperSonic SC-499 features a digital TV tuner that allows you to receive digital TV signals without needing an external converter box. This feature makes it easy to watch TV on the go, especially traveling in areas with good reception. It also has a built-in USB port and SD card reader, which allows you to play media files directly from a USB drive or SD card. Additionally, the SuperSonic SC-499 comes with a remote control for easy navigation.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of the SuperSonic SC-499 is decent for a portable display. It features built-in stereo speakers that provide adequate sound quality for movies and TV shows. However, larger groups or noisy environments may require more than the volume level. The display also has a headphone jack, which allows you to connect headphones or external speakers for improved sound quality.
Design
The design of the SuperSonic SC-499 is sleek and modern. It has a widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9, which is ideal for watching movies and TV shows. The display panel is made of durable materials and has a matte finish that helps to reduce glare and reflections. The display also features a convenient carrying handle that makes it easy to take.
VS Other Brands
Compared to other brands TVs in the market, the SuperSonic SC-499 is a good option for those needing a portable display for watching TV shows and movies on the go. However, other brands offer more advanced features, such as built-in streaming services, Bluetooth connectivity, and higher-resolution screens. It is important to consider your specific needs when choosing a portable display, as different brands offer different features and capabilities.
Color Accuracy
The color accuracy of the SuperSonic SC-499 is decent for a portable display. It provides good color reproduction and saturation, although the colors may not be as accurate as larger, more advanced displays. The display may also suffer from color shifts when viewed from angles greater than 45 degrees, which is typical for LCD displays.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio of the SuperSonic SC-499 is decent for a portable display. It provides good contrast and black levels, which helps to improve the overall image quality. However, the contrast ratio may be lower than in larger, more advanced displays, resulting in less detail in darker scenes.
Energy Efficiency
The SuperSonic SC-499 is a relatively energy-efficient display. Its built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 4 hours of continuous use, which is enough for a movie or two TV episodes. Additionally, the display has an auto-off feature that helps to conserve battery life when the display is not in use. However, it is important to note that the display may consume more energy with certain features, such as the built-in digital TV tuner.
Connectivity
The SuperSonic SC-499 Portable Widescreen LCD Display with Digital TV offers a variety of connectivity options. It features a built-in digital TV tuner, allowing you to watch TV without needing an external cable box or streaming device. Additionally, it has various input options, including HDMI, VGA, and USB. Connecting your favorite devices, such as gaming consoles, laptops, and streaming devices, is easy.
Calibration
The SuperSonic SC-499 comes with various calibration options to ensure the best possible picture quality. It features a 16:9 aspect ratio and a 1366×768 resolution, which provides clear and crisp images. It also has a brightness of 200 cd/m² and a contrast ratio of 500:1, which enhances the viewing experience.
Value
The SuperSonic SC-499 is an excellent value for its price point. It offers a lightweight, portable design, making it easy to take with you. Its built-in digital TV tuner and various connectivity options make it a versatile and valuable device. It also features a built-in rechargeable battery, which provides up to 2.5 hours of continuous use.
Screen Size
The SuperSonic SC-499 has a 9″ screen size, which is great for on-the-go viewing. Its small size makes it easy to carry while still providing a clear and crisp image. However, the small screen size may not suit those needing a larger display for gaming, work, or entertainment.
Operating System
The SuperSonic SC-499 does not have a built-in operating system, which may limit its functionality for some users. However, it is compatible with various devices, such as gaming consoles, laptops, and streaming devices. This makes it easy to use with your favorite operating system, whether it be Windows, MacOS, or another.
Remote Control
The SuperSonic SC-499 comes with a remote control, which allows you to adjust the display settings without having to navigate the on-screen menu. This is a convenient feature, especially if you use the display for multiple purposes, such as gaming and watching TV. The remote control also allows you to switch between input sources, adjust the volume, and turn the display on and off.
Viewing Experience
The SuperSonic SC-499 Portable Widescreen LCD Display with Digital TV offers a decent viewing experience, given its small size and low price point. The display has a resolution of 1366×768, which is not as high as many other displays on the market but is adequate for the 9-inch screen size. The colors appear vibrant and accurate, and the image is relatively sharp. However, due to the lower resolution and smaller screen size, text and fine details can appear slightly blurry.
Apps
The SuperSonic SC-499 does not have a built-in app store or smart TV features. However, it has a built-in digital TV tuner, allowing you to watch live TV without needing an external device. Additionally, the display has several input options, including HDMI, VGA, and USB, which allow you to connect external devices, such as a streaming stick or gaming console, to access apps and streaming services.
Black Uniformity
One area where the SuperSonic SC-499 falls short is black uniformity. Due to the display’s lower contrast ratio, black areas can appear slightly gray, especially in a dimly lit room. This can detract from the overall viewing experience, particularly during dark scenes in movies or TV shows.
Brightness
The SuperSonic SC-499 has a maximum brightness of 200 cd/m², which is relatively low compared to many other displays on the market. While this may not be an issue in a dimly lit room, it can make it difficult to see the screen in bright environments, such as outdoors. Additionally, the brightness can vary depending on the displayed content, so that some scenes may appear dimmer or brighter.
Upscaling Quality
The SuperSonic SC-499 does a decent job of upscaling lower-resolution content, such as DVDs or non-HD streaming services. While the image may not appear as sharp as on a higher-resolution display, it still looks good and is watchable. However, when viewing the content in its native resolution, the image quality is noticeably better.
Soundbar Support
The SuperSonic SC-499 does not have a built-in speaker but a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output. This makes it easy to connect headphones or external speakers, such as a soundbar, to enhance the viewing experience. However, keep in mind that the sound quality will depend on the quality of the headphones or speakers being used.
Ambient Light Performance
The SuperSonic SC-499 Portable Widescreen LCD Display with Digital TV offers decent ambient light performance. The display has a maximum brightness of 200 cd/m², which is relatively low compared to many other displays on the market. However, it is adequate for indoor viewing in normal lighting conditions. The display may be difficult to see in brighter environments, such as outdoors. Additionally, the display has no anti-glare or anti-reflective coating, so that it may be susceptible to glare and reflections.
Wall Mount Compatibility
The SuperSonic SC-499 is compatible with VESA wall mounts, which makes it easy to mount the display on a wall or other flat surface. However, it is important to note that the display does not come with a wall mount or mounting hardware, so you must purchase these separately.
Warranty
The SuperSonic SC-499 comes with a 90-day limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. While this warranty is relatively short compared to many other displays on the market, it is unsurprising given the display’s low price point. Some retailers may also offer extended warranties or protection plans for an additional fee.
Input Ports
The SuperSonic SC-499 has several input ports, making connecting external devices easily. The display has one HDMI port, VGA port, AV input, and USB port. The HDMI port is particularly useful for connecting streaming devices like a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick. In contrast, the VGA port helps connect a laptop or desktop computer. The AV input is useful for connecting older devices, such as a DVD player, while the USB port can be used to play media files directly from a USB drive.
Durability
The SuperSonic SC-499 is a relatively durable display, given its plastic construction. However, handling the display carefully is important to avoid any damage or cracking. Additionally, the display does not come with any protective case or cover, so it may be susceptible to scratches and scuffs if not stored properly.
Response Time
The SuperSonic SC-499 Portable Widescreen LCD Display with Digital TV has a response time of 8ms, which is relatively slow compared to many other displays on the market. This means that fast-moving images may appear blurry or ghosted. However, for casual viewing, the response time should be fine.
Voice Control
The SuperSonic SC-499 does not have voice control capabilities, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer to control their devices with voice commands. However, the display does come with a remote control, which makes it easy to navigate through the menu and adjust settings.
Final Verdict and Recommendation
Overall, the SuperSonic SC-499 Portable Widescreen LCD Display with Digital TV is a decent option for those who need a portable and affordable display for on-the-go viewing. While it may not have the high-end features of more expensive displays, it offers good value for its price point. The display’s response time may be a drawback for some users, but it should be fine for casual viewing. The display’s limited viewing angles may also be a drawback for some users, but this may be fine for individual use. The lack of voice control capabilities may be a drawback for some users who prefer to control their devices with voice commands, but the remote control makes it easy to navigate through the menu and adjust settings. The display’s 90-day limited warranty may not provide adequate coverage for some users, but some retailers may offer extended warranties or protection plans for an additional fee. The lack of a protective case or cover included with the display may concern some users, but it is relatively durable, given its plastic construction. Overall, if you’re looking for a portable display for watching TV or movies on the go, the SuperSonic SC-499 is worth considering.
