LG C4 OLED TV Review
Stunning Picture Quality and Advanced Gaming Features
- Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Verdict
- Sizes
- Comparisons
- Design
- Picture
- Gaming
- Smart Features
- Sound
- Connectivity
- Conclusion
The LG 65-Inch Class OLED evo C4 Series Smart TV represents the latest iteration in LG's popular C Series lineup for 2024. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the C3 OLED, this new model introduces several enhancements that solidify its position as a top-tier television option. At the heart of the C4 is LG's cutting-edge α9 AI Processor Gen7, designed exclusively for their OLED TVs to deliver superior image processing and overall performance. Key improvements in the C4 include a boost in brightness, particularly noticeable in HDR content, and an upgraded refresh rate capability of up to 144Hz, a step up from the previous 120Hz limit. This makes the C4 an even more attractive option for gamers and sports enthusiasts. The TV also introduces 'Filmmaker Mode' for Dolby Vision content, aiming to provide a more accurate cinematic experience. With its nearly bezel-less design, comprehensive smart features powered by webOS 24, and support for various HDR formats, the LG C4 OLED continues to push the boundaries of what viewers can expect from their home entertainment experience.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Verdict
Pros
- Stunning OLED picture quality with improved brightness
- Advanced gaming features including 144Hz support
- Powerful α9 AI Processor Gen7 for enhanced performance
- Comprehensive smart features with webOS 24
- Sleek design with nearly invisible bezel
Cons
- Premium price point may be high for some buyers
- Sound quality is good but not exceptional
- No ATSC 3.0 tuner included
The LG C4 OLED TV represents a significant step forward in the evolution of OLED technology, offering a compelling package of stunning picture quality, advanced features, and smart functionality. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the C4 introduces notable improvements that solidify its position as a top-tier option in the premium TV market.
At the heart of the C4’s performance is its OLED evo panel, powered by the new α9 AI Processor Gen7. This combination delivers exceptional picture quality with deep blacks, vibrant colors, and improved brightness compared to previous models. The addition of a 144Hz refresh rate and comprehensive gaming features make it an excellent choice for both cinephiles and gamers alike.
While the C4 excels in many areas, it’s not without its drawbacks. The premium price point may be a barrier for some consumers, and the sound quality, while good, doesn’t quite match the excellence of the visual performance. Additionally, the lack of an ATSC 3.0 tuner may disappoint some users looking for future-proofing in broadcast technology.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the LG C4 OLED TV stands out as a top performer in its class. Its combination of superior picture quality, advanced processing capabilities, and a feature-rich smart platform make it a strong contender for anyone in the market for a high-end television experience. The C4 successfully balances cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality, cementing LG’s reputation as a leader in the OLED TV space.
Check Price
Size | Model Number | |
65 Inch | E1LGOLED65C4PUARB | |
42 Inch | OLED42C4PUA | |
48 Inch | OLED48C4PUA | |
55 Inch | OLED55C4PUA | |
77 Inch | E1LGOLED77C4PUARB | |
83 Inch | E1LGOLED83C4PUARB |
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Differences Between Sizes
Pros
- Wide range of sizes from 42" to 83"
- Consistent picture quality across all sizes
- Larger sizes offer more immersive viewing experience
- Smaller sizes ideal for gaming or smaller rooms
Cons
- Price increases significantly with larger sizes
- 42" model lacks some features of larger sizes
The LG C4 OLED series offers an impressive range of sizes to suit various preferences and room configurations. Available in 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, and 83″ models, this lineup ensures that there’s an option for nearly every viewing environment. The picture quality remains consistently excellent across all sizes, thanks to LG’s OLED evo technology and the α9 AI Processor Gen7.
While the larger sizes, particularly the 77″ and 83″ models, provide a more immersive viewing experience ideal for home theaters, the smaller 42″ and 48″ variants are perfect for gaming setups or smaller living spaces. It’s worth noting that the 42″ model, while sharing the same OLED panel technology, may lack some of the brightness capabilities found in the larger sizes due to its compact nature.
As expected, the price scales up considerably with size increases. The jump from the 65″ to the 77″ and 83″ models represents a significant price hike, which may influence buyers’ decisions based on their budget and room size. Despite this, the larger sizes offer an unparalleled cinematic experience that many find worth the investment.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Compared To Other TVs
Pros
- Superior picture quality with OLED technology
- Advanced gaming features with 144Hz refresh rate
- Comprehensive smart TV platform with webOS 24
- Improved brightness over previous models
Cons
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Lacks certain niche features found in other brands
The LG C4 OLED stands out in the competitive TV market with its exceptional picture quality and advanced features. Compared to other high-end TVs, the C4’s OLED technology delivers superior contrast and deep blacks, creating a more immersive viewing experience. The inclusion of a 144Hz refresh rate and comprehensive gaming features puts it ahead of many competitors, especially for gaming enthusiasts.
In terms of smart TV capabilities, the C4’s webOS 24 platform offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of streaming options, rivaling or surpassing many other smart TV systems. The α9 AI Processor Gen7 enhances picture and sound quality, keeping pace with or exceeding the processing power of other premium TVs. However, the C4’s higher price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers comparing it to more affordable options.
While the C4 excels in many areas, it’s worth noting that some competitors may offer specific niche features not found in the LG model. For instance, certain brands might provide better integration with specific smart home ecosystems or have slight advantages in particular aspects of picture processing. Nevertheless, the C4’s overall package of features, performance, and quality makes it a strong contender in the high-end TV market.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Design and Build
Pros
- Sleek and ultra-thin profile
- Nearly bezel-less design
- Premium build quality
- Versatile stand design
Cons
- Stand may not accommodate larger soundbars
- Heavier than some competitors
The LG C4 OLED TV continues the brand’s tradition of sleek and minimalist design. With its ultra-thin profile measuring just 4.7cm at its thickest point, the C4 presents a striking and modern appearance. The nearly bezel-less display creates an immersive viewing experience, allowing the stunning OLED picture to take center stage.
Build quality is exceptional, with a premium feel that belies its surprisingly light weight for a large TV. The 65-inch model weighs just 36.6 pounds without the stand, making it significantly easier to handle during installation compared to many competitors. Despite its lightweight nature, the C4 maintains a solid and well-constructed feel.
The included pedestal stand is both stylish and functional, featuring a compact footprint that allows placement on narrower furniture. However, this design may limit space for larger soundbars. For those preferring wall-mounting, the C4 is compatible with standard VESA mounts, and its thin profile ensures a flush fit against the wall.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Picture Quality
Pros
- Exceptional OLED contrast with perfect blacks
- Improved brightness over previous models
- Vibrant colors with 100% Color Volume
- Advanced α9 AI Processor Gen7 for enhanced image processing
Cons
- Potential for image retention with static content
- Peak brightness still lower than some high-end LED TVs
The LG C4 OLED TV continues to impress with its stunning picture quality, building upon the strengths of its predecessors. At the heart of its visual prowess is LG’s OLED evo technology, which delivers deep, inky blacks and infinite contrast ratios characteristic of OLED displays. This year’s model boasts improved brightness levels, addressing a common criticism of OLED TVs and enhancing HDR performance, especially in well-lit rooms.
Color reproduction on the C4 is nothing short of spectacular. The TV’s ability to display 100% Color Volume ensures rich, accurate colors across the entire brightness spectrum. Whether you’re watching vibrant animated content or subtle, nuanced scenes, the C4 renders colors with precision and depth. The inclusion of Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10 support further enhances the viewing experience, adapting to ambient light conditions for optimal picture quality.
LG’s α9 AI Processor Gen7, exclusive to their OLED lineup, takes image processing to new heights. It employs deep learning algorithms to analyze and optimize picture quality in real-time, resulting in sharper details, reduced noise, and improved upscaling of lower resolution content. The processor’s ability to enhance contrast and color on a per-scene basis contributes to a more dynamic and immersive viewing experience across various content types.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Gaming Features
Pros
- 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
- HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K@120Hz
- Low input lag of 9.2ms in Game Optimizer mode
- VRR support including G-Sync and FreeSync Premium
- Game Dashboard for easy access to gaming settings
Cons
- Game Optimizer slightly reduces brightness
- Game Dashboard overlay is somewhat large
The LG C4 OLED TV elevates the gaming experience with its impressive array of features tailored for gamers. At the forefront is its 144Hz refresh rate, a step up from the previous 120Hz standard, ensuring incredibly smooth and fluid motion in fast-paced games. This is complemented by the TV’s remarkably low input lag, measuring just 9.2ms when using the Game Optimizer mode with Boost feature activated, placing it among the most responsive TVs on the market.
Connectivity is another strong suit, with the C4 boasting four HDMI 2.1 ports that fully support 4K resolution at 120Hz. This makes it an ideal companion for the latest gaming consoles and high-end PCs. The TV also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technologies, including NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium, effectively eliminating screen tearing and stuttering for a seamless gaming experience.
LG has incorporated a Game Dashboard feature, which provides quick access to crucial gaming-related settings and information. While the dashboard’s size, taking up about a quarter of the screen, may be a bit intrusive for some, it offers valuable at-a-glance data such as frame rate, VRR status, and low latency mode activation. The Game Optimizer mode, although slightly reducing brightness, allows for fine-tuning of gaming-specific settings to achieve the optimal balance between performance and picture quality.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Smart TV Features
Pros
- WebOS 24 offers intuitive and responsive interface
- Wide range of streaming apps and services available
- AI-powered content recommendations and personalization
- Multi-View feature allows split-screen viewing
- Voice control with built-in Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility
Cons
- Some users may find the interface cluttered
- Occasional lag when navigating menus
The LG C4 OLED TV comes equipped with the latest WebOS 24 smart platform, offering users a seamless and intuitive interface for accessing a wide array of content. This updated version brings enhanced responsiveness and a user-friendly layout, making navigation through apps and settings a breeze. The platform supports all major streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and many others, ensuring that users have access to a vast library of entertainment options.
One of the standout features of WebOS 24 is its AI-powered content recommendation system. By analyzing viewing habits and preferences, the TV can suggest personalized content, helping users discover new shows and movies tailored to their tastes. The Multi-View feature is another notable addition, allowing users to split the screen and watch content from two different sources simultaneously, perfect for multitasking or keeping an eye on sports scores while watching a movie.
Voice control capabilities have been significantly improved in the C4 model. With built-in Alexa and compatibility with Google Assistant devices, users can easily control their TV, search for content, and even manage other smart home devices using voice commands. This hands-free operation adds a layer of convenience to the overall smart TV experience, making it easier than ever to interact with your television.
While the WebOS 24 platform offers a wealth of features and customization options, some users may find the interface a bit cluttered, especially when first getting accustomed to the system. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional lag when navigating through menus, particularly when multiple apps are running. However, these minor issues are generally outweighed by the overall functionality and versatility of the smart TV features offered by the LG C4 OLED.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Sound Quality
Pros
- AI-enhanced audio processing improves overall sound
- Dolby Atmos support for immersive audio
- Clear dialogue reproduction
- Good volume levels for room-filling sound
Cons
- Bass response lacks depth
- External soundbar recommended for best experience
The LG C4 OLED TV demonstrates a notable improvement in sound quality compared to its predecessor. Equipped with a 2.2 channel speaker system and 40W of power, the TV delivers a surprisingly robust audio experience for its slim profile. The integration of AI Sound Pro technology enhances the overall audio performance, adapting the sound output to the content being played and the room environment.
One of the standout features is the TV’s ability to produce clear and intelligible dialogue, even during complex audio scenes. The Dolby Atmos support adds an extra dimension to the soundstage, creating a more immersive viewing experience. While the bass response may lack the depth found in dedicated sound systems, the C4 manages to produce room-filling sound with good volume levels that should satisfy most casual viewers.
Despite these improvements, audiophiles and those seeking a truly cinematic audio experience may still find the built-in audio lacking. For optimal sound quality, pairing the C4 with a good quality soundbar or external audio system is recommended. However, for everyday viewing and casual entertainment, the C4’s audio capabilities represent a significant step up from typical flat-panel TV sound, offering a well-balanced and engaging listening experience.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Connectivity
Pros
- Four HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K@120Hz
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless streaming
- Bluetooth 5.1 for audio streaming and peripherals
- eARC support for high-quality audio passthrough
Cons
- No ATSC 3.0 tuner for next-gen broadcast TV
- Limited legacy connectivity options
The LG C4 OLED TV excels in connectivity, offering a comprehensive suite of modern options to satisfy even the most demanding home entertainment setups. At the forefront are four HDMI 2.1 ports, all capable of supporting 4K resolution at 120Hz, making this TV an ideal choice for next-generation gaming consoles and high-end PCs. One of these ports supports eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), allowing for high-quality audio passthrough to compatible soundbars or AV receivers without the need for additional cables.
Wireless connectivity is equally impressive, with built-in Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) ensuring fast and reliable streaming even in congested network environments. This is complemented by Bluetooth 5.1 support, which not only allows for audio streaming to compatible headphones or speakers but also enables the connection of various peripherals such as game controllers or keyboards. The TV’s smart platform, powered by webOS 24, takes full advantage of these connectivity options, offering a seamless experience for accessing streaming services and other online content.
For those who still rely on legacy connections, the C4 includes a composite input via an adapter and an RF input for antenna or cable signals. However, it’s worth noting that unlike some competitors, the C4 does not include an ATSC 3.0 tuner for next-generation broadcast TV. Despite this minor omission, the overall connectivity package of the LG C4 OLED is robust and future-proof, ensuring that users can easily integrate this TV into their existing setups while being prepared for upcoming technologies.
LG C4 OLED TV Review: Conclusion
The LG C4 OLED TV represents a significant step forward in OLED technology, offering a compelling package of stunning picture quality, advanced features, and smart functionality. Its OLED evo panel, powered by the new α9 AI Processor Gen7, delivers exceptional contrast, vibrant colors, and improved brightness compared to previous models. The addition of a 144Hz refresh rate and comprehensive gaming features make it an excellent choice for both cinephiles and gamers alike.
While the C4 excels in many areas, it’s not without its drawbacks. The premium price point may be a barrier for some consumers, and the sound quality, while good, doesn’t quite match the excellence of the visual performance. Despite these minor shortcomings, the LG C4 OLED stands out as a top performer in its class, successfully balancing cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality.