We compare LG C4 vs LG C2 OLED TVs to see if two generations makes a big difference
Updated: Feb 7, 2024 4:55 pm
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Table of Contents
It’s no secret that the LG C2 blew us away when it released, but when it comes to comparing LG C4 vs LG C2 OLED TV, does the newer generation finally warrant an upgrade? Our hands-on LG C2 OLED TV review scored the gaming TV close to top marks, making it the best OLED TV on the market at the time of release. When comparing LG C3 vs LG C2, we found that the newer C3 didn’t really offer too much reason to upgrade, but it was a solid refresh nevertheless and the go-to for many new buyers.
The LG C4 is 2024’s entry to their OLED TV line-up, and we want to delve into the changes that LG has made to make the 4th generation of the C-series more appealing than ever. In order to compare, we take a look at the specs, design, price, and gaming performance – before you head off and find out where to buy the LG C4 OLED TV.
LG C4 OLED Series
Pros
Now up to 144Hz refresh rate at 4K
Native Chromecast support
Cons
Still no MLA like the G-series
Not a massive upgrade over the LG C3
LG C2 OLED Series
Pros
Incredibly fast response time (0.001ms)
New Game Optimizer features
Excellent gaming performance
Today’s best TV deals
LG C4 vs LG C2 specs & design
SpecificationLG C4LG C2Sizes42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″ProcessorAlpha 9 Gen 7Alpha 9 Gen 5MLA (Micro Lens Array)NoNoScreen technologyOLED evoOLED evoScreen resolution3840 x 2160 (4K)3840 x 2160 (4K)Max refresh rate144Hz120HzResponse time0.1ms or less expected0.1msConnectivityHDMI 2.1 (x4), USB, AirPlay 2, ChromecastHDMI 2.1 (x4), USB, AirPlay 2VRRHDMI 2.1 VRR, AMD FreeSync, Nvidia G-Sync compatibleHDMI 2.1 VRR, AMD FreeSync, Nvidia G-Sync compatible
Glancing over the specs and you’ll see that there have been some noticeable improvements, similar improvements to what we saw between LG C4 vs LG C3 OLEDs in fact. The LG C4 retains the same sizing range, giving you plenty to choose from regardless of your available space. As it’s two generations ahead, the LG C4 includes the newest Alpha 9 Gen 7 processor which goes big on AI features to help boost brightness levels or improve sound as AI Sound Pro can now process 11.1.2 virtual surround sound.
Response time will remain as responsive as ever on this OLED screen, but the refresh rate has been upped to 144Hz from 120Hz, unlocking further potential for PC gamers that can support this via HDMI 2.1. Another extra built-in function includes the introduction of Chromecast to the LG C4.
To speak about the design a little bit, both of these TVs look extremely similar – there’s not much reason to change that if we’re honest. They both have a super slim build and are designed to be used with a stand – all sizes expect the 42″ model come with a stand included, where as the smallest 42-inch size has feet included instead. This is the case for both the LG C2 and LG C4.
LG C4 vs LG C2 price & sizing
We’ve already mentioned that the sizing of the LG C4 will remain the very same as the LG C2 and indeed the LG C3 that came after it. That being 42-inch, 48-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, 77-inch, and 83-inch models to provide something for everyone. As the mid-range option, LG cater to the widest audience possible with the C-series.
With the exact pricing of the LG C4 not yet clear, we can look back to the C3 launch prices – especially since we expect the C4 to be more or less the same. This is how they looked:
83″ price: $6,499
77″ price: $3,999
65″ price: $2,899
55″ price: $2,099
48″ price: $1,499
42″ price: $1,399
The LG C2 was a little under this back when it launched for the 55″ models upwards, though the two smallest sizes were the same price. That’s in the past though, and you can pick up an LG C2 for relatively cheap these days, especially with plenty of deals in play. We can’t be sure how long availability sticks around though once the C4 is widely available.
LG C4 vs LG C2 for gaming
There’s no denying that both of these gaming TVs are excellent for gaming, as you should probably expect. With the 2.1 standard across every single HDMI port, you get full coverage for 4K at 120Hz for all your games consoles or even your gaming PC. This makes both of these TVs great for the PS5 and Xbox Series X which make make the most of 4K gameplay at the moment, on the console side of the equation. With 0.1ms response times, ghosting becomes a non-issue and the support for VRR via HDMI 2.1, FreeSync or G-Sync helps combat screen tearing and similar stutters. Overall, both the LG C4 and C2 provide you with excellent gaming performance.
Another thing to consider is PC gamers, with the LG C2 actually being a popular choice to replace a gaming monitor, especially the smallest 42″ size which makes for a high-quality OLED display for desktop use if you have enough space to cater for it. For PC players, the LG C4 is the clear winner due to its support for a slightly higher 144Hz refresh rate which is commonly seems on gaming monitors. Unfortunately, the current generation of consoles are capped to 120 FPS and can’t make the most of this, whereas a beefy gaming PC can push 4K visuals above this.
LG C4 OLED Series
LG C4 OLED TV vs LG C2 OLED TV – is it worth upgrading?
When it comes to deciding on whether you upgrade from the LG C2 to the LG C4, we can’t say that we’re wholly convinced that the changes offer enough of a difference for the majority of users. Improvements to the AI processor and other extras such as the higher refresh rate are nice to have, but the LG C2 still holds up to this day. However, if you’re something that wants the very latest and greatest tech, then the LG C4 is for sure one of the best OLED TVs money can buy once release date rolls around. If you’re looking to upgrade from something older like the LG C1 we reviewed, then we think the improved brightness of LG’s OLED evo panel amongst the other upgrades makes it worthwhile if you have the extra cash to spend, the LG C4 being the brightest of the C-series to date.
The LG C4 does fit a niche for PC gamers thanks to the higher 144Hz refresh rate though, unlocking that little bit extra you may want to make full use of with your 4K gaming rig. Given the age of the LG C2 though, the price is more appealing than ever for budget-focused buyers.
Does the LG C4 have MLA?
Some sad news for the C-series is that it still hasn’t been fitted with MLA (Micro Lens Array) technology that helps boost brightness levels much higher than then standard OLED evo panel. This is still reserved for the higher-end models starting with the next step up, the LG G4. The technology was first introduced in 2023’s line-up for the G3. If the C4 were to be upgraded to MLA, we’d fully recommend upgrading from older models if dimmer brightness levels are a real downside to OLEDs in your own experience.
Despite the lack of MLA, the LG C4 still does a good job of providing a bright display as far as OLED panels go. LG have hinted that the C4 can reach as high as 900 or 1,000 nits brightness, which would be closer to 200 nits more than the LG C3 and LG C2.
Final word
We hope that our comprehensive guide to the LG C4 OLED TV vs LG C2 OLED TV has helped you understand the differences between these impressive televisions. No matter which one takes your fancy more, you’re in for a treat thanks to the high-quality panel and wide range of specs and compatibility. Whether you’re interested in viewing your favorite TV shows and movies on a big-screen OLED or even want to make use of the LG C-series as an alternative to a gaming monitor, you’re good to go.
If you want to see more on the C4, check out our LG C4 vs LG B4 OLED TV comparison – a cheaper B-series option which shows it’s potential for catching up to the C-series.
