Considering the purchase of LG's top-tier OLED TV? Our editor offers valuable recommendations
In the world of OLED TVs, the LG C4 and C5 models have been making waves, especially during this year's Prime Day. While both TVs offer impressive picture quality and features, when considering **performance, pricing, and potential future price drops**, there are some key differences that set them apart.
In terms of **performance**, both the LG C4 and C5 deliver the core strength of OLED technology — perfect blacks with zero blooming and wide viewing angles. They both provide pixel-perfect contrast and accurate color reproduction. However, the C5 has a brighter HDR peak (around 1300 nits) compared to the C4 (about 950 nits). This increased brightness in the C5 results in more impactful HDR highlights and generally more immersive images, especially in bright scenes and dark color volume.
The C5 is also equipped with the newer Alpha 9 AI Gen 7 processor, which offers better image processing, while the C4 has the Gen 6 processor. This results in slight improvements in upscaling, image refinement, and gaming optimizations in the C5.
Both TVs support 4K at 144Hz, Dolby Vision, and have four full-speed HDMI 2.1 ports, making them excellent for gaming. The C5 also includes a new game optimizer mode, but overall gaming performance is quite close between them.
When it comes to **pricing**, the LG C4 is significantly cheaper as a previous-generation model. For example, the C5 42-inch is around $1,399, while the C4 can be found at about half that price, making it a very strong value proposition with nearly the same performance.
The C5 commands a premium price justified by its brighter HDR output and enhanced processing capabilities, which might be worthwhile if you prioritize the absolute best picture and future-proofing.
As for **future price drops**, given that the C4 is already a previous-generation model, its price is likely to remain stable or drop further as retailers clear inventory to make way for newer models. On the other hand, the C5, being current generation, may see discounts as newer OLED models like the LG G5 enter the market later in the year, but initial price drops will likely be slower compared to the C4.
For those on a budget who want excellent OLED quality with minor compromises on peak brightness and processor, the LG C4 offers the best value, nearly matching the C5’s performance at about half the price. However, if you want the brightest HDR performance, improved processing, and the newest features, especially for gaming and HDR content, and are willing to pay a premium, the LG C5 is the better choice.
During Prime Day, the LG C4 is highly recommended, offering a vibrant and dynamic image, superb app support, and flawless gaming specifications with four full HDMI 2.1 connections. The 55-inch LG C4 is available for a significantly cheaper £859 ($1096.99 in the US / N/A Australia), representing a massive £1240 saving on its launch price. The LG C4 is still a top recommendation in the best OLED TV buying guide, making it the clear winner in terms of performance-per-pound/dollar.
- In the review of the LG C4 and C5 OLED TVs, it was noted that both models show perfect blacks with zero blooming and wide viewing angles.
- During the preview of the LG C4 and C5, it was found that the C5 has a deal of around 1300 nits in HDR peak brightness compared to the C4's 950 nits.
- While buying a TV, the choice between the LG C4 and C5 depends on performance, pricing, and potential future price drops.
- At news of the LG C4 and C5, the hi-fi enthusiasts found that the C5 offers better image processing with a newer Alpha 9 AI Gen 7 processor compared to the C4's Gen 6 processor.
- Streaming shows and movies on the LG C4 and C5 would be an enjoyable experience because of their pixel-perfect contrast, accurate color reproduction, and support for 4K at 144Hz, Dolby Vision, and HDMI 2.1 ports.
- At the gadget event where LG launched the C4 and C5, the brands emphasized that the C5 commands a premium price due to its enhanced HDR output and refined processing capabilities, while the C4 offers nearly the same performance at a lower price.
- In technology reviews discussing the LG C4 and C5, experts suggest that the C4 is a better value option for budget-conscious consumers, while the C5 is preferred by those who prioritize the absolute best picture quality, processing, and the latest features.
