LG C2 Series 55-Inch OLED Smart TV review AI-powered 4K brilliance

Description

Design and Build Quality

The LG C2 Series 55-Inch OLED evo Smart TV (OLED55C2PUA) immediately stands out with its sleek and modern design. Its razor-thin profile, paired with the almost bezel-free display, gives it a futuristic and premium aesthetic. When mounted on the wall, this TV blends seamlessly into any space, thanks to its “Gallery Design” that ensures minimal gaps between the TV and the wall. I personally tested the wall-mounting capability, and while the installation was straightforward, I did notice that the TV stand is sold separately, which could be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer using a stand. The overall build feels sturdy, yet the TV is surprisingly lightweight for its size, weighing just 32.2 pounds.

Picture Quality and Performance

The picture quality is where this TV truly shines. With 8 million self-lit OLED pixels, the visuals are nothing short of spectacular. I was particularly impressed by the infinite contrast ratio and the ability to display deep blacks alongside vibrant, lifelike colors. Watching scenes set in space or dark environments felt surreal, as the black levels are genuinely pitch-black. The α9 Gen 5 AI Processor 4K takes things up a notch by automatically optimizing the picture and sound based on what you’re watching. This feature worked seamlessly during my testing, whether I was streaming a movie or gaming.

The addition of Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos enhances the cinematic experience further. I streamed a few Dolby Vision-enabled movies, and the level of detail in darker scenes and the dynamic range of colors were outstanding. Additionally, the Filmmaker Mode is a neat touch for cinephiles like me, as it preserves the director’s original vision without unnecessary processing or motion smoothing.

Gaming Features

As a gamer, I have to highlight the gaming performance of this TV. The LG Game Optimizer mode is a game-changer (pun intended). It allows you to manage all your gaming settings in one place, which is incredibly convenient. The inclusion of NVIDIA G-SYNC, FreeSync Premium, and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) ensures buttery-smooth gameplay with no screen tearing or stuttering, even during graphically intense scenes. I tested it with a next-gen console via one of the four HDMI 2.1 ports, and the low input lag was immediately noticeable. Additionally, the HGiG compliance ensures HDR gaming looks as intended, which is a huge plus.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The range of smart features packed into this TV left me quite impressed. The built-in support for Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple AirPlay, and HomeKit makes controlling the TV and other connected devices incredibly easy, even via voice commands. I personally found the integration smooth, though I’d recommend ensuring your smart home devices are updated for optimal compatibility. Streaming apps like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, and Prime Video are pre-installed, so you’re ready to dive into content immediately after setup. The Magic Remote with Magic Tap simplifies navigation and even has NFC capabilities, which I found useful for quick connections.

Key Benefits

• Stunning OLED visuals with over a billion colors and infinite contrast.
• Enhanced gaming features like NVIDIA G-SYNC and VRR for seamless gameplay.
• Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos for an immersive viewing experience.
• Integrated smart assistants for easy voice control and device management.
• Lightweight and premium “Gallery Design” for aesthetic versatility.

Areas of Concern

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas for improvement worth mentioning:

• The TV stand isn’t included, which might be a downside for some users.
• Brightness levels, while improved compared to older OLED models, may not match certain high-end LED TVs in well-lit rooms.
• The Magic Remote design, though functional, felt slightly bulky in my hands.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to its market rivals, I found that the Sony A80K OLED TV comes close in terms of picture quality but lacks the same level of gaming optimization. Sony’s offering does have slightly better out-of-the-box color calibration, but it’s also generally priced higher. On the other hand, Samsung’s QN90B Neo QLED TV is brighter and better suited for brightly lit rooms, but it doesn’t quite match the OLED55C2PUA’s contrast or black levels. If gaming is a priority, LG’s inclusion of HDMI 2.1 ports and G-SYNC/FreeSync compatibility gives it an edge over most competitors.

True Value

Given its high-end features and exceptional performance, this TV offers commendable price-to-quality ratio. While it might not be the most affordable option, the combination of cutting-edge OLED technology, advanced AI processing, and comprehensive gaming features makes it a worthwhile investment for movie buffs, gamers, and even casual viewers. If you’re looking for a TV that delivers immersive visuals and versatile functionality, this one deserves serious consideration.

Additional information