LG’s C series has long been a favorite for those seeking excellent picture quality at a non-prohibitive price. But with the release of the 2024 C4, how does it stack up against its predecessor, the C3? Let’s delve into the key specifications to help you decide which LG OLED TV is the perfect fit for your living room.
Design: A Tale of Two Twins
At first glance, you’d be hard-pressed to tell the C3 and C4 apart. Both boast the same sleek, minimalist design with incredibly thin profiles (less than 0.5cm at their thinnest point and 4.5cm at their thickest for the 65-inch models) This makes them ideal for wall mounting without worrying about excessive strain on your walls and fixings. Despite being lightweight, both TVs feel solidly built.
Picture Quality: Brightness is King
While both TVs utilize self-illuminating OLED panels for stunning inky blacks and vibrant colors, the C4 takes a significant leap in brightness. This is thanks to the upgraded panel technology and the new Alpha a9 AI Processor. The a9 AI Processor analyzes content and optimizes brightness on a scene-by-scene basis for improved HDR (High Dynamic Range) performance. This translates to a more impactful HDR experience, especially in well-lit rooms where highlights can sometimes appear washed out on lesser TVs.
Gaming: C4 Claims the Crown
Gamers, rejoice! The C4 boasts a native 144Hz refresh rate, a significant upgrade over the C3’s 120Hz. This translates to smoother frame rates, reducing the dreaded screen tearing and stuttering that can occur during fast-paced gameplay. The improved motion handling from the a9 AI Processor further enhances this advantage, ensuring a more responsive and enjoyable gaming experience. Both TVs support ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) with G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility for seamless performance across various consoles and PCs.
Sound: A C4 Symphony
The C4 steps up its audio game with a more powerful sound system compared to the C3. While specific details haven’t been officially released, early reports suggest the C4 boasts additional speakers or increased wattage for a richer, more immersive listening experience. This can be particularly beneficial for those who don’t want to invest in a separate soundbar. Both TVs support Dolby Atmos for a more cinematic audio experience.
Smart Features: WebOS Reigns Supreme
Both TVs come equipped with LG’s user-friendly WebOS platform. This platform offers a wide selection of popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max, along with voice control capabilities through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. WebOS also integrates seamlessly with smart home devices, allowing you to control your lights, thermostat, and other compatible devices directly from the TV.
The Price Point: A Balancing Act
While the C4 boasts superior specs, it naturally comes at a slightly higher launch MSRP compared to the C3. However, the C3 has seen significant price drops since its release, making it an even more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
LG OLED C3 Vs C4:
| Feature | LG C3 | LG C4 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | OLED | OLED |
| Screen Size (inches) | 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″ | 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″ |
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) |
| HDR Support | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision |
| Processor | Alpha a9 Gen 6 | Alpha a9 AI Processor |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz |
| Panel Brightness | Lower | Higher |
| Smart Platform | WebOS | WebOS |
| Voice Assistants | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa |
| Connectivity | 4x HDMI 2.1, 2x USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 | 4x HDMI 2.1, 3x USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Sound System | Standard | More Powerful |
