Cello C32277T2 Battery TV review
Everything you need for a truly portable TV experience is in the box, says Independent AV reviewer Steve May
This Cello offering is a portable TV unlike any other. Able to run off the mains or on its own rechargeable battery, the C32277T2 is ideal for use in a caravan or motorhome, on a boat or even whilst camping.
Everything you need to take your telly out and about is included in the box. The package is comprehensive, and there’s some surprises included too. For example, the set ships with two long-lead LED lights which plug directly into the back of the set; these are more than bright enough to light a tent or campsite.
Fully charged, the TV can run for upwards of 10 hours in its most economical of battery modes. The battery is partly charged on arrival, and takes a couple of hours to fully juice.
It comes with a standard IR remote control, but there’s also a control menu on the rear edge of the set, if that’s more convenient. There’s two tuners, one terrestrial Freeview HD, the other satellite.
Connectivity includes two HDMI inputs, and a PC VGA input. There are four USB ports, two of which can be used for media playback or recording TV onto an external hard drive. The other pair are provided to recharge mobile devices, but can also power a TV dongle. There’s also a CI cam slot.
The power point even doubles as a connector for a solar panel, which means this set can be run off the grid (possibly a feature with more appeal outside the UK, to be honest). The company appears to have thought of everything.
Picture quality is perfectly fine. The set is HD Ready, which means a resolution of 720p (1366 x 768). Contrast is rated at 4000:1. It’s worth noting that image vibrancy is determined by the set’s Power Save options. Located in the menus, these offer a default option of 6-10 hours use, which significantly dims the screen, or 4-6 Hours use, which is a little brighter. There’s also a full-brightness Daytime mode.
Also included in the package is a lightweight, high-gain TV aerial. This can be erected wherever you park up, although obviously reception quality is unpredictable. Other playback options would be to watch videos straight from a USB stick or laptop.
Alternatively, you can partner this clever Cello TV with a streaming dongle. I plugged in a Google Chromecast HDMI stick, and powered it via the set’s 5v USB port, which allowed me to cast YouTube videos directly from my phone. The system worked perfectly. Similarly, you could use the set with an Amazon Fire TV, or Now TV stick. You’ll need an internet network connection for such devices.
Finally, the 32-incher makes for a good choice as a gaming TV. I measured input lag at 26ms; anything less than 30ms can be considered good.
My verdict
I came to this ambitious portable TV somewhat sceptical, and left a convert. The C32277T2 is a brilliantly equipped battery TV. Picture performance and power saving options are generous, and the provision of two LED light sockets is inspired. If you plan on taking the set glamping, this Cello TV basically offers all the comforts of home, in one expertly put together package. Just the ticket for your next road trip.
