In the ever-evolving landscape of television technology, LG has consistently been at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of picture quality and performance. Their latest offering, the LG C2 OLED TV, is a testament to their commitment to excellence. Building on the success of its predecessor, the LG C1 OLED, the C2 takes things up a notch, delivering impeccable picture quality and best-in-class gaming performance. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the various aspects that make the LG C2 OLED TV a top contender in the world of 4K televisions.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing you’ll notice about the LG C2 is its remarkably light and slim design. LG has employed composite fiber materials to reduce the weight significantly. The 65-inch model, for instance, weighs just 40.8 pounds with the stand or 36.6 pounds without, a substantial reduction compared to previous OLED models. This makes it not only easier to unbox and set up but also places less strain on your wall if you choose to mount it. The pedestal stand is now lighter, narrower, and taller, ensuring that it doesn’t obstruct your view, even if you have a soundbar.
But what’s truly impressive is how LG manages to create such a lightweight TV without compromising on build quality. OLED TVs are known for their fragility, but the C2 feels robust and durable, a refreshing change for those who’ve had to handle delicate displays in the past.
The LG C2 comes in a range of sizes, from a compact 42 inches to a gargantuan 83 inches, catering to various room sizes and viewing preferences. Regardless of the size you choose, you can expect the same set of features, including four HDMI ports, ensuring ample connectivity options for all your devices.
Display Performance
When it comes to OLED TVs, the display performance is where they truly shine, and the LG C2 is no exception. With HDR peaking at slightly over 800 nits, the C2 offers perceptibly brighter visuals than its predecessor, the C1, and certainly brighter than the CX. While it may not match the brightness of Mini LED TVs like the TCL 6-Series, it holds its own and is more than capable of providing a stunning visual experience.
The hallmark of OLED displays is their ability to deliver deep, inky blacks and vibrant colors, and the C2 excels in this department. The contrast ratio is near-infinite, resulting in picture quality that’s nothing short of breathtaking. Whether you’re watching movies, TV shows, or playing video games, you’ll be treated to stunning visuals with striking contrast and vivid colors.
- The LG C2 supports various HDR formats, including Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, and HGiG, ensuring that you can enjoy content with the highest quality HDR available. This means you’ll experience HDR highlights that pop, with details in both dark and bright scenes coming to life;
- One of the standout features of the C2’s display is the level of depth and dimensionality it offers. This is thanks to LG’s Alpha 9 Gen 5 chip, which optimizes image processing, creating a subtle yet noticeable effect that enhances video fidelity. It’s not quite 3D, but it adds an extra layer of immersion to your viewing experience.
The quick response time of OLED panels can sometimes result in judder when watching movies and other 24fps content. However, LG’s Cinematic Movement toggle does an excellent job of smoothing things out without creating the dreaded “soap opera effect.” This means you can enjoy your favorite films without any distracting motion issues.
Gaming Excellence
In today’s world of gaming, a TV’s gaming performance is a crucial factor for many consumers, and the LG C2 does not disappoint. LG has gone all out to cater to gamers with this TV, and it shows.
One of the standout gaming features is the TV’s low input lag, which is virtually imperceptible. Whether you’re playing fast-paced shooters or immersive RPGs, the C2 ensures that your commands are executed without delay, providing a responsive and enjoyable gaming experience.
LG’s gaming dashboard is a game-changer for those who take their gaming seriously. It automatically recognizes your gaming console and provides essential information like the current frame rate. You can fine-tune black levels, choose from picture presets based on the genre of the game, and enjoy a customized gaming experience that enhances your gameplay.
Moreover, the LG C2 supports a wide range of gaming technologies, including Dolby Vision gaming and various Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technologies such as AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync. This means it’s a perfect match for next-gen gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, delivering smooth and tear-free gaming experiences.
While some TVs may boast higher brightness levels, the LG C2 offers a consistent gaming experience that’s hard to beat. Other manufacturers have faced firmware issues with their gaming TVs, negatively affecting brightness and performance, but the C2 remains solid and dependable.
Smart TV Experience
The LG C2 comes equipped with the latest version of webOS, the company’s smart TV interface. While webOS has undergone some changes in recent years, the overall experience remains smooth and responsive. Navigating through apps, using features like AirPlay 2, and controlling smart devices through the Home Dashboard are all seamless processes.
However, it’s worth noting that webOS has become busier and more cluttered over time. While it offers a wide range of features, it can feel overwhelming at times. The homescreen, in particular, has seen several iterations, resulting in a somewhat disjointed and ad-heavy interface. While customization is possible to some extent, certain sections and apps cannot be removed, making the interface feel cluttered.
For those who prefer a simpler and more streamlined interface, connecting an external streaming device like Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, or Google Chromecast is a viable option. This allows you to bypass webOS and use the TV’s hardware primarily for picture and sound quality.
Audio Performance
While most users invest in external sound systems or soundbars for their home theaters, it’s worth mentioning that the LG C2’s built-in speakers are surprisingly decent. LG uses AI tricks to maintain a good balance at moderate volume levels, ensuring that dialogues are clear and sound effects are immersive.
However, don’t expect booming bass or audiophile-grade audio from the TV’s speakers. They serve as a respectable stopgap if you’re without a dedicated sound system, but for the full cinematic experience, pairing the C2 with a soundbar or surround system is recommended.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional contrast ratio delivering true black levels. | Occasional uniformity concerns, particularly noticeable at off-center angles. |
| Seamless elimination of 24p judder from all sources. | Colors may fall short of achieving pure white brightness levels. |
| Extensive color gamut tailored for vivid HDR content. | |
| Minimal input lag for ultra-responsive gaming. | |
| Packed with remarkable gaming features. |
Modern Alternatives to the LG C2 OLED
- Sony A90J OLED TV: Offers exceptional picture quality, especially in terms of brightness, with the Cognitive XR processor enhancing image processing;
- Samsung’s QD-OLED TVs (e.g., Samsung S95B): Known for impressive color brightness and contrast, utilizing Quantum Dot technology for vibrant visuals;
- TCL 6-Series: A budget-friendly alternative without compromising on quality, providing a mix of affordability and performance.
While the LG C2 OLED is undoubtedly a top contender in the OLED TV market, it’s essential to consider some modern alternatives that have also made a significant impact. One such alternative is the Sony A90J OLED TV, which offers an exceptional picture quality, particularly in terms of brightness. The A90J features Sony’s proprietary Cognitive XR processor, enhancing image processing and delivering stunning visuals. Additionally, Samsung’s QD-OLED TVs, such as the Samsung S95B, have gained attention for their impressive color brightness and contrast. These QD-OLED displays leverage Quantum Dot technology, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the visuals. However, it’s worth noting that they come at a premium price point. Finally, for those seeking a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the TCL 6-Series continues to be a popular choice. This series offers a compelling mix of affordability and performance, making it a solid alternative for those looking to maximize their value. Ultimately, the choice between the LG C2 OLED and its alternatives depends on your specific preferences and budget, as each of these options brings its unique strengths to the table.
Conclusion
In the competitive world of OLED TVs, the LG C2 stands out as a phenomenal choice. It builds upon the success of its predecessor, the C1, and offers improvements in brightness, gaming performance, and overall user experience. LG’s commitment to delivering unmatched picture quality is evident, with deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent HDR support. For gamers, the C2 is a dream come true, with low input lag, comprehensive gaming features, and support for a range of gaming technologies. It’s a perfect match for the latest gaming consoles, providing a tear-free and responsive gaming experience. While webOS has become busier and more cluttered, it remains a functional smart TV interface, and users have the option to simplify their experience by using external streaming devices.
The LG C2 OLED TV offers a compelling package for those seeking the best in picture quality and gaming excellence. Its lightweight design, stunning visuals, and responsive performance make it a top choice for home entertainment. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or simply enjoying your favorite TV shows, the LG C2 delivers an immersive and enjoyable viewing experience that’s hard to match.