β‘οΈ Quick Verdict - LG C3 OLED evo (2023)
- Best For: Movie enthusiasts, gamers, and general content consumption in varied lighting.
- Strengths: Exceptional contrast, vibrant colors, advanced processing, and comprehensive gaming features.
- Drawbacks: Incremental brightness gain over predecessor, less peak brightness than some QD-OLEDs.
- Verdict: A premium, versatile OLED TV for diverse use cases.
βοΈ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Picture Quality | Users consistently praise the perfect black levels and infinite contrast characteristic of OLED technology. The improved Alpha 9 Gen6 AI Processor enhances image upscaling and object recognition, leading to sharper details and vibrant colors across various content types. | While bright for an OLED, some users note it does not achieve the same peak brightness levels as competitor QD-OLED models in very bright scenes, potentially leading to less impactful highlights in direct comparison. |
| Gaming Performance | Feedback highlights the four HDMI 2.1 ports, supporting 4K at 120Hz, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), making it highly responsive for current-gen gaming consoles. The Game Optimizer menu offers convenient control over gaming settings. | A minority of users might find the Game Optimizer menu slightly overwhelming due to the number of options, though most appreciate its depth. |
| Smart Features (webOS) | The latest webOS 23 is reported to be faster and more customizable, with a revamped user interface that prioritizes personalized content recommendations and quick access to apps. The Magic Remote continues to be a user-friendly navigation tool. | Some users express that the increased level of personalization and content suggestions, while often useful, can sometimes feel a bit intrusive or lead to more pre-installed apps. |
| Design & Build | The C3 maintains a remarkably thin profile, especially the screen panel, contributing to a sleek and modern aesthetic. The central stand design in many sizes is stable and fits well on narrower surfaces. | For larger screen sizes, some users indicate the stand, while stable, might exhibit a slight wobble if the surface is not perfectly firm. |
π§ Whatβs Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| LG C3 OLED evo TV | The core product, featuring a self-lit OLED panel for perfect blacks and vibrant colors, powered by the Alpha 9 Gen6 AI Processor. |
| LG Magic Remote | A motion-sensing remote control offering intuitive point-and-click navigation, voice control, and dedicated shortcut buttons for streaming services, enhancing user experience. |
| Stand (depending on size) | Provides stable support for the TV for tabletop placement. Some larger sizes feature a central stand, while smaller ones might have wide-set feet. |
| Power Cable | Connects the TV to an electrical outlet, essential for operation. |
| Documentation (User Manual, Quick Start Guide) | Provides instructions for setup, operation, troubleshooting, and important safety information. |
π° Is It Worth It? β Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Long-term Performance | The C3 benefits from LG's mature OLED technology, known for its excellent picture consistency over time and wide viewing angles, ensuring a premium viewing experience from various positions. The improved processor contributes to future-proofing for evolving content standards. | While OLED panels generally have a long lifespan, like all display technologies, their performance can degrade subtly over many years. Users should be mindful of the potential for image retention, though LG has implemented technologies to mitigate this risk. |
| Feature Set for Price | It offers a comprehensive suite of premium features, including advanced HDR support (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG), four HDMI 2.1 ports, and a robust smart TV platform, providing high value for its capabilities in gaming, movies, and general use. | For users who primarily consume SDR content or do not require the absolute latest gaming features, some of the advanced capabilities might be considered overkill or underutilized, potentially leading to a perception of less value if not fully leveraged. |
| Energy Efficiency | As an OLED, the C3 typically has excellent energy efficiency when displaying dark content, as individual pixels can turn off completely. It includes energy-saving modes that can further reduce power consumption. | When displaying extremely bright, full-screen white content, OLEDs can draw more power, though this is less common in typical viewing scenarios. Users focused on absolute minimal power consumption in all conditions might note this. |
π LG Comparison β How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | LG C2 OLED evo (2022) | LG C3 OLED evo (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Alpha 9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K | Alpha 9 Gen6 AI Processor 4K |
| Brightness | Slightly lower overall peak brightness in most sizes. | Marginally improved peak brightness, especially noticeable in smaller panel sizes (42"-77") due to 'Light Boosting Algorithm'. |
| Smart TV Platform | webOS 22 | webOS 23 with more customization, 'Quick Cards', and improved user interface. |
| Sound Processing | AI Sound Pro (virtual 7.1.2 upmixing) | AI Sound Pro (virtual 9.1.2 upmixing) for more immersive simulated surround sound. |
| Design | Very thin panel, slightly different stand in some sizes. | Slightly refined design elements, including a more compact stand on some sizes and improved material for the rear casing. |
βοΈ Alternatives vs LG C3 OLED evo (2023)
| Aspect | Samsung S90C QD-OLED | Sony A80L OLED | LG C3 OLED evo (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panel Technology | QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) | WOLED (White OLED) | WOLED (White OLED) |
| Color Volume & Brightness | Higher color volume at peak brightness, more vibrant colors in bright scenes. | Excellent color accuracy and processing; good brightness for a traditional OLED. | Very good color accuracy and brightness; slightly less vibrant than QD-OLEDs in very bright scenes. |
| Picture Processing | Very good, with strong upscaling and motion handling. | Exceptional processing, particularly for motion handling and upscaling, producing a very natural image. | Excellent processing with the Alpha 9 Gen6, strong at upscaling and object enhancement. |
| Gaming Features | Four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K/144Hz support, VRR, ALLM. | Two HDMI 2.1 ports (one shared with eARC), 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM. | Four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K/120Hz support, VRR (G-Sync/FreeSync Premium compatible), ALLM. |
| Sound Quality | Good built-in audio, but typically benefits from a soundbar. | Acoustic Surface Audio+ (screen acts as a speaker) provides excellent integrated sound. | AI Sound Pro (virtual 9.1.2), good for built-in TV audio. |
| Smart TV Platform | Tizen OS, generally fast and user-friendly. | Google TV, very comprehensive app selection and integration with Google ecosystem. | webOS 23, fast, customizable, intuitive Magic Remote. |
π‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the LG C3 support Dolby Vision?Yes, the LG C3 OLED evo supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG.
- Is the LG C3 good for gaming?Yes, it is highly regarded for gaming due to its four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 120Hz support, VRR (G-Sync and FreeSync Premium compatible), and ALLM.
- What is the main difference between the C3 and the C2?The main differences are the upgraded Alpha 9 Gen6 AI Processor, a slightly brighter picture (particularly in smaller sizes), and the updated webOS 23 interface on the C3.
- Can the LG C3 be wall-mounted?Yes, the LG C3 OLED evo is VESA compliant and can be wall-mounted using a compatible VESA mount.
- Does the LG C3 come with a remote?Yes, it comes with LG's Magic Remote, which offers point-and-click functionality, voice control, and dedicated streaming buttons.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The picture quality is stunning, especially with 4K HDR content; blacks are truly black, and colors pop beautifully.
- Gaming on this TV is incredible; the low input lag and 120Hz support make fast-paced games feel incredibly smooth and responsive.
- The webOS interface is intuitive and quick, making it easy to find shows and navigate apps.
- I appreciate the thin design; it looks great mounted on the wall and fits seamlessly into my living room.
- The sound quality for a TV is surprisingly good, especially after tweaking the AI Sound Pro settings.
π Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- While very bright for an OLED, I sometimes wish it had more pop in extremely bright scenes, especially compared to some of the newer QD-OLEDs.
- The Magic Remote is great, but the number of buttons can be a bit overwhelming for casual users initially.
- I noticed a very slight difference in brightness compared to my older C2, but it wasn't a groundbreaking upgrade as I had hoped.
- The stand for the larger sizes, while sturdy, has a slight give to it if the TV is nudged.
- I wish there were more physical buttons directly on the TV itself for basic controls in case the remote is lost or runs out of battery.
π Key Details & Specifications
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Display Type | 4K OLED evo Panel |
| Processor | Ξ±9 Gen6 AI Processor 4K |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh Rate | Native 120Hz |
| HDR Support | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG |
| HDMI Ports | 4 x HDMI 2.1 (4K @ 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, eARC on HDMI 2) |
| Smart TV Platform | webOS 23 |
| Audio Technology | AI Sound Pro (Virtual 9.1.2 Surround), Dolby Atmos Passthrough |
| Gaming Features | NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible, AMD FreeSync Premium, VRR, ALLM, HGiG, Game Optimizer |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 5), Bluetooth (v5.0), Ethernet |
| Voice Assistant | Built-in LG ThinQ AI, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Mounting | VESA Compatible |
π Summary β Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The LG C3 OLED evo (2023) continues LG's tradition of delivering premium OLED performance, offering an exceptionally rich and immersive viewing experience.
- Its perfect black levels, vibrant color reproduction, and advanced Alpha 9 Gen6 AI Processor ensure stunning picture quality across movies, sports, and general television.
- For gamers, the comprehensive suite of HDMI 2.1 features, including 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, positions it as a top-tier choice for current-generation consoles.
- While the brightness increase over its predecessor is incremental rather than revolutionary, it maintains a strong lead in traditional OLED technology.
- If you're seeking a versatile, high-performance television that excels in nearly every aspect, especially in environments where deep blacks and accurate colors are paramount, the LG C3 OLED evo is an excellent and reliable option.
