LG OLED C4 review

Display

An OLED controls light at each pixel, which is particularly useful when a dark scene contains small bright objects. RTINGS’ 65-inch C4 sample showed deep blacks without halos, with a wide viewing angle.¹ That supports both evening films and seating that extends beyond the center of the screen.

Room placement still matters. RTINGS found direct reflections from lights and windows distracting.¹ Look at where those reflections will fall during normal viewing hours before deciding on the wall or stand position. Curtains and moving a lamp can matter more than selecting the brightest picture preset.

Brightness Booster is included from 55 inches upward, but not on the 42- and 48-inch models. Their smaller size can suit a bedroom or close viewing position, though the 65-inch sample’s brightness should not be treated as a measurement of them. Choose the size around viewing distance and available space first, then consider that difference.

Picture Processing

RTINGS found effective upscaling and cleanup of lower-quality content, while fine detail remained limited by the source.¹ Start with a good stream or disc when possible. Processing can make an imperfect signal easier to watch, but cannot recover detail that was never delivered.

The same fast pixel transitions that help games can make slow film pans look abrupt. RTINGS observed stutter with low-frame-rate material.¹ Try a restrained motion setting on familiar scenes and decide how much smoothing you prefer; a stronger setting can change the film’s appearance.

FILMMAKER MODE provides a useful starting point for movie viewing, including Dolby Vision material.¹ Adjust everyday screen brightness for the room rather than changing every advanced control. Keep settings for films and games separate so a gaming preference does not unintentionally determine the look of everything else.

Gaming

All four HDMI inputs support high-refresh operation, which makes the C4 accommodating when a console, PC and other sources share the TV. The 144Hz ceiling is a PC feature. Consoles that support 120Hz still depend on the selected game and its performance mode.

RTINGS measured low lag in Game Optimizer with Prevent Input Delay set to Boost, but its 65-inch sample lost HDR brightness in Game Optimizer.¹ This is a meaningful tradeoff for someone comparing films and HDR games on the same screen. Keep the low-latency setup for responsive play rather than judging it only by brightness beside a movie preset.

The predecessor C3 topped out at 120Hz, so the C4’s higher ceiling gives a compatible PC something new to use. It is a smaller benefit for a console owner whose existing C3 already meets their needs. A refresh-rate specification alone is not a strong reason to replace a satisfactory OLED.

Connectivity

A soundbar or receiver using eARC occupies HDMI 2, leaving three inputs for sources. That simple count is useful when planning a system with several consoles or players. Check the complete audio path if a source is connected through other equipment, particularly when combining high-refresh video with surround sound.

The standard PUA models use Wi-Fi 5, while the AUA retailer versions use Wi-Fi 6E. A compatible router and suitable local signal are needed to benefit from the latter. Ethernet is another option when a reliable cable route is available; the newer wireless label does not improve a weak internet service.

The 42- and 48-inch US product specifications also list a headphone output. Larger sizes should not be assumed to offer the same socket. Decide where wired headphones or speakers will connect before choosing the exact size and installation.

Smart Features

The C4 launched with webOS 24, but its installed software may have changed. LG’s inspected support history includes Google Cast and interface additions for the listed applicable models, followed by later bug-fix releases. Use the exact model’s update route rather than assuming the launch interface is the one a delivered TV will show.

The Magic Remote supports everyday navigation without requiring a separate streaming device. Check availability of the services you actually use, and review the setup choices before enabling optional features. An external player remains an alternative if you prefer a different interface; the television’s picture hardware does not depend on liking every part of its home screen.

Size and Installation

The 42-inch model uses two feet, whereas the larger sizes use center stands of different widths. The 83-inch stand is much broader than the 55- or 65-inch stand. Measure the cabinet surface and soundbar clearance using the exact configuration’s dimensions rather than the diagonal screen size.

Mounting patterns are 300 × 200mm through 77 inches and 400 × 400mm at 83 inches. Match the bracket to the size, weight and wall, and follow LG’s lifting and assembly instructions. The thin panel is not a convenient place to grip or press while moving the set.

Leave the TV connected to power after turning it off so automatic pixel cleaning can run. Avoid unnecessary fixed images and keep the panel-care features available. LG specifies one year of parts and labor coverage in the inspected US product information; an additional retailer plan is a separate arrangement.

Alternatives

Keeping a satisfactory C3 is a reasonable alternative, especially for console use. The C4 makes more sense as a first OLED or a replacement for a television with a clear limitation than as a routine annual upgrade.

A bright-room LCD is worth comparing if reflections and daytime viewing dominate. For an existing OLED setup, spending on better room lighting or an audio improvement may address a more noticeable weakness than replacing the screen. Compare the C4’s actual offer and condition with newer models before treating its age as either a flaw or a bargain.

Verdict

The C4 is still a capable choice for mixed movies and gaming when its price is attractive and the room suits OLED. Its four useful HDMI inputs make it easy to build around, while size-specific brightness and fit deserve attention. Buy it to meet a real need at a sensible offer, with clear expectations about reflections and HDR gaming brightness.