LG SP520 Smart TV Upgrader WiFi Black — main product image

LG SP520 Smart TV Upgrader WiFi Black

Name: LG SP520 Smart TV Upgrader WiFi Black
Brand: LG
SKU: SP520

★★★★★3.6 (41 reviews)

Compact WiFi-enabled media streamer that adds Netflix, YouTube, and more to any HDTV with an HDMI input.

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Overview

The LG SP520 Smart TV Upgrader is a compact media streaming box designed to bring internet-connected entertainment to HDTVs that lack built-in smart features. It connects to your television via HDMI and to your home network via built-in WiFi, providing access to popular streaming services including Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and Vudu. For users with an older but still perfectly good HDTV, the SP520 offered a cost-effective alternative to buying an entirely new smart television.

The most important consideration for prospective buyers is that the SP520 is a legacy product. LG has discontinued this model, and streaming services regularly update their minimum device requirements, which means some apps may no longer function or receive updates on this hardware. If your primary goal is reliable access to current streaming platforms, a newer device may be a better investment. However, for basic streaming needs or as a secondary-room solution where cutting-edge performance is not essential, the SP520 can still serve a purpose at a very low price point.

Key Features

The SP520 LG Smart TV Upgrader easily connects to your current HDTV to provide instant access to streaming services such as Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow, YouTube and more.

Integrated Wi-Fi connectivity allows you connect to any available Wi-Fi connection within its range.

Browse and share files from external storage devices on your TV screen, or access files from your PC, tablet or smart phone via Wi-Fi.

Specifications

Brand

Model

SP520

Connectivity

Built-In WiFi

Supported Services

Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Vudu

Output

HDMI

Color

Black

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Adds smart streaming capabilities to any HDTV with an HDMI port at a low cost.
Built-in WiFi eliminates the need for an Ethernet cable run to your entertainment center.
Simple setup process that does not require technical expertise.
Compact form factor takes up very little space near your TV.

👎 Cons

As a discontinued product, app availability and updates are likely limited or no longer supported.
Streaming services may have dropped compatibility with the SP520's older software platform.
Does not support 4K or HDR content, outputting only standard HD.
The remote and interface feel dated compared to modern streaming devices like Roku or Fire TV.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the LG SP520 actually do?

It connects to your existing HDTV via HDMI and adds smart TV functionality, giving you access to streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and Vudu without replacing your television.

Does the SP520 require a wired internet connection?

No, it has built-in WiFi so you can connect wirelessly to your home network. However, a wired Ethernet connection may provide more stable streaming if available.

Will this work with any TV?

It works with any TV that has an HDMI input. It will not work with older TVs that only have composite or component inputs unless you use a separate HDMI adapter.

Does the LG SP520 receive firmware or app updates?

Because this is an older LG product, app support and firmware updates may be limited or discontinued. Some streaming services may no longer be compatible with the device's software.

Can the SP520 play local media files from a USB drive?

The SP520 is primarily designed for streaming online content. Check LG's specifications for your region to confirm USB media playback support.