Comparing LG C5 and LG C4: Here's a breakdown of their differences and a recommendation on which one to purchase.
The LG C5 OLED TV, set to be released this spring, is an evolutionary update from its predecessor, the LG C4. Both TVs share similarities in design, features, and performance, making them excellent midrange OLED options.
Design
The LG C5 comes with a stand included, a feature not found in some other LG models like the G5. The design of the C5 is slightly redesigned, with the Magic Remote being slimmer and longer, albeit lacking a number pad. The C4's design is not notably distinct from the C5, maintaining the sleek OLED aesthetic standard for both.
Features
The C5 is equipped with a newer Alpha 9 Gen 8 AI processor, which enhances picture clarity and upscaling more than the C4’s Alpha 9 Gen 6. The C5 also includes four HDMI 2.1 ports, making it a strong choice for gaming and modern connectivity, comparable to the C4’s port setup.
The C5 operates on webOS 25, an evolutionary update from the C4’s OS. The new OS offers a smoother user experience and improved functionality.
Performance
The C5 boasts a brighter OLED panel that performs better in well-lit rooms by reducing glare and maintaining clarity in challenging scenes. It delivers outstanding color accuracy and more immersive visuals, ideal for movies, gaming, and sports. However, some subtle color volume drop occurs in darker image areas on the C5, affecting skin tone naturalness at times—a minor issue not always noticeable.
The C4 performs very well too, producing deep blacks, infinite contrast, vibrant and punchy colors, and meticulous detail. It is slightly less bright than the C5 but remains a cinematic viewing choice.
The C5's brightness capabilities show measurable improvement, particularly in HDR content, delivering impactful highlights and improved overall brightness that enhances viewing in moderately lit environments.
Audio
The integrated speakers of the C5 have merely adequate performance, with dialogue being clear enough for casual viewing but lacking dynamic range and impact. Bass response is the most significant audio shortcoming of the C5, with the TV struggling to deliver convincing low-frequency effects during dramatic moments.
Pricing
The LG C5 is expected to have similar pricing trends as the C4, with the 65-inch model launching at around £2700 / $2699 / AU$4299, and the 55-inch variant at £1900 / $1999 / AU$3299. The LG C4 has already seen significant price drops since its launch, with the 65-inch model now often available for around £1999 / $1999.
Conclusion
The LG C5 has a slight edge in picture quality and features mainly due to its upgraded processor and brightness, but these gains are modest. The C4 offers excellent value, delivering near-comparable performance for less money. Both TVs remain excellent midrange OLED options, making them a great choice for those seeking high-quality viewing experiences without breaking the bank.
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- The LG C5's design includes a stand as standard, unlike some other LG models, and features a slimmer and longer Magic Remote that lacks a number pad.
- The improved Alpha 9 Gen 8 AI processor in the C5 amplifies picture clarity and upscaling compared to the C4's Alpha 9 Gen 6.
- With four HDMI 2.1 ports, the C5 offers a strong choice for gaming and modern connectivity, similar to the C4.
- The C5 runs on webOS 25, providing a smoother user experience and improved functionality compared to the C4's OS.
- The C5's OLED panel produces a brighter display, which helps in well-lit rooms, but has a minor issue with subtle color volume drop in darker image areas.
- The LG C5's audio performance is adequate, but the integrated speakers struggle with dynamic range, impact, and bass response.
