LG vs Samsung: Smart TVs Compared (2024)
Smart TVs by LG and Samsung lead the global market, setting standards in picture quality, design, and smart features. In 2024, both brands offer advanced technologies — but each has its own approach to panel types, image processing, and user experience. Here’s an in-depth, up-to-date comparison of their flagship models.
Comparison Table
| Feature | LG OLED C4 (2024) | Samsung QN90D Neo QLED (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Panel Type | OLED | Neo QLED (Mini-LED) |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| HDR Support | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG | HDR10+, HLG |
| Brightness (peak) | ~900 nits | 1800+ nits |
| Refresh Rate | 120 Hz (VRR, ALLM, G-Sync) | 120 Hz (VRR, ALLM, FreeSync) |
| Smart Platform | webOS 24 | Tizen OS |
| Voice Assistant | Google, Alexa, ThinQ | Google, Alexa, Bixby |
| Gaming Features | HDMI 2.1, 4 ports, Game Optimizer | HDMI 2.1, 4 ports, Game Bar |
| Sound System | 2.2ch 40W + Dolby Atmos | 4.2.2ch 60W + Dolby Atmos |
| Design | Ultra-thin, minimal bezel | Slim design, premium stand |
| Special Feature | Infinite contrast, perfect blacks | Mini-LED, ultra-high brightness |
| Price Range (2024) | $$$$ | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
LG OLED C4: The Benchmark for Cinematic Picture
Strengths:
- OLED panel: Delivers perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and precise colors. The picture feels truly cinematic, especially in dark scenes.
- Dolby Vision IQ support: Automatic adjustment of HDR for the perfect picture in any lighting.
- Wide viewing angles: The picture remains true even if you’re watching from the side.
- Advanced gaming: All HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1 — great for PS5, Xbox Series X, and gaming PCs. Features like VRR, G-Sync, and Game Optimizer enhance your experience.
- Ultra-slim design: Looks premium, almost blends into the wall.
- webOS platform: Fast, intuitive, with all major streaming apps.
Best For:
Movie fans, gamers, and anyone who wants “cinema at home” quality.
Limitations:
- Not as bright as QLED in a sunny room.
- OLED panels are more sensitive to static images (burn-in is rare, but possible).
Samsung QN90D Neo QLED: Brightness & Versatility
Strengths:
- Neo QLED Mini-LED panel: Exceptional brightness, vivid colors, and excellent clarity even in brightly lit rooms.
- Quantum Matrix Technology: Deep blacks and outstanding contrast, close to OLED but with higher brightness.
- HDR10+ support: Optimizes every scene in supported content.
- Tizen OS: Fast, rich in apps, and smooth interface.
- Anti-glare coating: Reduces reflections for daylight viewing.
- Powerful sound: Multi-channel speakers with Dolby Atmos.
- Advanced gaming: Game Bar, FreeSync Premium Pro, and ultra-fast response make it a great choice for gamers.
- Robust, reliable: Less risk of burn-in, ideal for varied content and sports.
Best For:
Bright rooms, mixed-use (TV, movies, sports, gaming), families wanting maximum versatility.
Limitations:
- Blacks not as absolute as OLED, but still deep.
- No Dolby Vision, only HDR10+ (matters for certain streaming content).
Expert Recommendations
| Priority | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Cinematic picture | LG OLED C4 |
| Brightest image | Samsung QN90D Neo QLED |
| Best for dark rooms | LG OLED C4 |
| Best for bright rooms | Samsung QN90D Neo QLED |
| Best gaming features | Both (LG for G-Sync, Samsung for FreeSync) |
| Smart apps | Both |
| Most immersive sound | Samsung QN90D Neo QLED |
| Best for sports | Samsung QN90D Neo QLED |
| Price/performance | Comparable (depends on discounts) |
Summary Table: Key Takeaways
- LG OLED C4: Ultimate in cinematic quality, perfect blacks, advanced gaming, and a premium look.
- Samsung QN90D Neo QLED: Super-bright, versatile, and great for all types of content in any lighting.
Conclusion
- Choose LG for movie nights, stunning OLED visuals, and if you want a TV that wows in the dark.
- Choose Samsung if you need maximum brightness, plan to watch in a bright room, or want extra sound power and anti-glare.
Both brands are world leaders — your ideal TV depends on your home setup and what you value most in your viewing experience.