LG aims to enhance the picture quality of its latest flagship OLED TV G4 through innovative advancements. The LG OLED G4 series is offered in sizes ranging from 55 to 97 inches. The LG G3, its predecessor, made a significant impact in 2023.
Could the LG OLED G4 push the boundaries further by incorporating increased peak brightness, a new processor, and an array of AI capabilities? Is the LG G4 OLED a worthwhile investment? In this evaluation of the LG OLED55G49LS OLED 4K HDR, focusing on the 55-inch model, we will delve into these inquiries and more.
LG G4 review
Design
The LG OLED55G49LS TV maintains the iconic Gallery design that the company is known for. Similar to its predecessor, the LG OLED G3, the design is sleek and flat, extending evenly across the entire width of the TV. Despite its slim and lightweight build, the craftsmanship is top-notch.
The metal frame surrounding the TV is only 2.8 centimeters deep, with the back wall also made of metal. The frame around the screen is very narrow, giving the LG OLED G4 a wall-mounted appearance. However, there are options available. A new feature for 2024 is the choice between wall-mounting and stand mounting for the 55-inch and 65-inch TVs.
LG offers OLED models OLED55G49LS and OLED65G49LS with a stand, denoted by the “S” symbol. Additionally, buyers can opt for the same TV with a wall mount branded OLEDG48LW in sizes ranging from 55 to 97 inches.
Previously, only an ultra-flat wall bracket was included with the purchase, and the stand had to be bought separately. Now, customers can choose between the 55-inch and 65-inch versions. Opting for “G4LW” makes it easy to hang the TV close to the wall.
For those selecting a stand, a minimalist support with two height positions is provided. While the stand is centered, it allows space for a soundbar to be placed as well. Whether the LG OLED G4 is on a stand or wall-mounted, covers can be attached to the back to manage cables. However, the base of the stand is not rotatable.
Features
The 97-inch LG OLED G4 TV lacks the advertised “Brightness Booster Max” and “Light Control Architecture” features found in models with smaller screen sizes. The technology behind this TV focuses on enhanced light control, better heat management, and the use of microlens technology known as “META”. Therefore, the conclusions drawn in this review may not be entirely applicable to the 97-inch version of the LG OLED G4 TV.
webOS 24
In the LG OLED55G4 TV, webOS has undergone a redesign with several innovations. The user interface in webOS 24 has been slightly altered once again. The fast cards, initially introduced in 2023, have now been made smaller yet more dynamic. LG states that this adjustment allows for clearer display of content suggestions requested by users below it.
The LG 55G4 TV is included in an update program that guarantees new versions of webOS. There are four updates scheduled for future webOS versions, with the first one expected in approximately two years. As long as the new features are not hardware-dependent, the TV will remain current.
Thematic cards, which offer access to popular features or streaming services, have become more dynamic. To ensure a completely personalized menu, users can create profiles. Currently available only in the US and Korea, voice recognition is intended to facilitate quicker switching between accounts.
Remote control
The LG G4 OLED TV is accompanied by the Magic Remote MR24, which is known for its exceptional quality. In addition to the traditional button controls, this remote offers a range of features including hand movement controls.
If you find that the dedicated buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ are not sufficient, you have the option to customize the digital buttons with your preferred applications, TV channels, or sources. The new accessibility quick card provides detailed instructions on how to do this. Simply long press on zero to access the corresponding menu.
LG menus are designed with simplicity, clarity, and convenience in mind. Quick settings can be accessed by briefly pressing the gear button on the left edge of the screen, allowing you to easily adjust picture mode or sound settings. If you’re in search of something specific, you can utilize Alexa or LG’s ThinQ for voice control, which is enhanced by artificial intelligence.
Alpha 11
LG unveiled its latest 4K OLED flagship alongside the introduction of the new Alpha 11 processor designed for top-tier TV models. This processor promises enhanced power and improved image processing through the integration of artificial intelligence technology.
Moreover, LG Display has launched a new series of OLED META panels for its subsidiary LG Electronics. This development aims to elevate image quality compared to its predecessor. The new processor also brings advanced streaming capabilities.
In 2024, Chromecast will be directly integrated alongside AirPlay 2 and Miracast. This allows users with Android smartphones to effortlessly stream content onto the television screen. Furthermore, Multiview has been upgraded to support up to four windows simultaneously, with two of them being HDMI sources. This enables seamless multitasking such as streaming, working, and video calls.
With the more powerful processor, users can have full control over applications within each window. This means tasks like browsing YouTube videos can be done without switching to full-screen mode.
The wide array of applications available, including popular video streaming services, remains extensive. The App Store now includes previously niche services like Crunchyroll, as well as cloud gaming options like Boosteroid and GeForce Now from Nvidia. The only notable absence is Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Sound quality
The 4.2 audio configuration comprises of six speakers, with each speaker having a power output of 10 W. Out of these speakers, two are specifically designed for the subwoofer, ensuring enhanced bass performance. Given the sleek and slim design of this TV, it is highly recommended to pair it with a high-quality soundbar for an optimal audio experience.
Alternatively, you can connect a top-notch hi-fi system to indulge in premium sound quality. However, even without a soundbar, LG provides sound that is suitable for everyday use. To achieve this, it is advisable to explore and select the most suitable sound mode settings that cater to your preferences.
Image quality
The latest processor and the latest generation of OLED displays work together to introduce nuances that are only noticeable through direct comparison with the previous model. For the most accurate colors and optimal picture quality for Full HD and 4K Ultra HD movies, it is recommended to switch the OLED G4 to Filmmaker picture mode.
This mode enhances the realism of faces, animals, and plants more than the default Eco mode, even though the picture may appear slightly softer and less vibrant. To fully appreciate the picture quality, Netflix is a good choice as it streams many of its own titles in 4K with Dolby Vision as part of its UHD subscription.
LG offers Dolby Vision in a wide range of picture modes. A new addition is the Dolby Vision Filmmaker picture mode, specifically designed to deliver true home theater quality. Another innovation is the ability to independently adjust the tone mapping for HDR content.
In essence, you can use the advanced settings to precisely control how the OLED displays the brightest parts of the image and HDR highlights. The default tone mapping ensures that even very light tones are visible, even if it requires a slight adjustment in brightness.
The most noticeable change compared to last year’s OLED LG G3 is the increase in brightness. This change is not as significant in Filmmaker mode. However, when directly compared, the image often appears more dynamic.
This increase in brightness is attributed to new technology based on a new processor. Measurements indicate that HDR brightness of up to 1,600 nits is achievable even with neutral settings, resulting in an overall slightly higher brightness level.
Game Mode
4K gaming at 120Hz is no longer the cutting-edge technology it once was, as the possibility of achieving a refresh rate of 144Hz has emerged. It is worth acknowledging that Samsung TVs have been capable of this for quite some time. If you possess a high-performance computer and desire a seamless gaming experience, then this innovation is undoubtedly impressive. Moreover, the compatibility with AMD FreeSync Premium and G-Sync ensures that the drivers will function seamlessly with the LG OLED G4.
Nevertheless, if you wish to utilize a higher refresh rate, you must activate the 144Hz mode in the game optimizer. This particular setting is designed for gaming PCs equipped with compatible graphics cards. LG guarantees that in such cases, there will be no issues with HDMI EDID, meaning players and consoles with a frequency of up to 120Hz will work flawlessly.
By the way, it is important to note that the 97-inch LG OLED G4 does not offer this feature and is limited to 120Hz. Consoles like PlayStation5 or Xbox Series X do not benefit from this feature either, as they do not support output beyond 120Hz. However, this limitation is inconsequential as gaming on these consoles is still enjoyable. The input lag is impressively low, measuring around 13 milliseconds.
The game optimizer image mode is fairly neutral, and the game overlay boasts a plethora of features. Additionally, the TV supports 4K playback at 120Hz with Dolby Vision, which represents the pinnacle of what can be achieved in game mode on a television.
Connections
When it comes to the connections available on the OLED55G49LS TV, LG stays true to its reputation with a few surprises. The focus is on digital connectivity, which explains the absence of a headphone or AV output. However, Bluetooth is available for connecting compatible headphones.
On the other hand, there are four HDMI ports that meet the expectations of HDMI 2.1. These ports support VRR and ALLM, and also feature eARC. This allows for seamless streaming of Dolby Atmos or DTS:X directly to your soundbar or speaker without any loss in quality. Furthermore, the HDMI interfaces have no trouble handling 120 Hertz.
In terms of additional connections, the OLED55G4 TV offers an Ethernet port, a triple tuner with Timeshift and recording capabilities, a CI+ slot for encrypted program reception, an optical digital audio output, antenna jacks, and three USB ports. Alongside Bluetooth, wireless connectivity options include Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
In wrapping up our evaluation of LG’s G4 OLED, the ultra-thin OLED display continues to impress for streaming, gaming, and TV viewing. However, this pleasure does come with a cost. While the OLEDG4 TV offers little that sets it apart from the G3, it still holds its own as a top-tier option.
Featuring slightly enhanced brightness, exceptional home theater screen quality, and impeccable OLED performance, the G4 falls short of matching the excellence of its forerunner. For optimal sound quality, a soundbar or audio system is necessary. If you are willing to forego the latest advancements, you can achieve nearly identical performance with the LG OLED G3 at a more affordable price.
LG G4 Specifications:
| Brand | LG |
| Series | G4 |
| Model | OLED55G4, OLED65G4, OLED77G4, OLED83G4, OLED97G4 |
| Ruler | LG Gallery Series |
| Image, screen | |
| Image | Ultra HD (UHD) / 4K / 2160p |
| Matrix type | OLED |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Screen resolution | 3840 x 2160 pixels |
| Matrix width | 10 bits |
| Update frequency | 40 .. 144 Hz |
| Gaming Features | FreeSync, G-Sync Compatible (Nvidia), Game Optimizer |
| Matrix | OLED evo |
| Brightness | 1700 nits |
| Video delay | 13 ms* |
| CPU | α11 AI Processor 4K |
| Signal standard | |
| TV tuner | Analog (NTSC/PAL/SECAM) |
| DVB-T/T2/T2-HD, DVB-C, DVB-S/S2 | |
| HDR10, Dolby Vision | |
| Dolby Vision IQ, HLG | |
| Interfaces | |
| Video | Component |
| 4 x HDMI 2.1 (CEC, ARC, eARC, HDCP 2.3) | |
| Antenna RF + satellite input (Main + Sub) | |
| 3 x USB 2.0 | |
| Net | Ethernet RJ-45/LAN |
| WiFi 6 | |
| DLNA support | |
| Wi-Fi Direct | |
| Bluetooth 5.1 | |
| Audio | Digital optical output |
| RS-232C Input (Min Jack) | |
| Audio system | |
| System | 4 x 10 W + 2 x 10 W (subwoofer) |
| Possibilities | 4.2CH, AI Sound Pro, Dolby Atmos, WiSA Ready, LG Sound Sync, OLED Surround, DTS:X |
| operating system | |
| OS | webOS 24 |
| Processor (SoC) | 4-core |
| Processor (CPU) | N.A. |
| Processor (GPU) | 2-core |
| RAM | 2 GB* |
| Memory | 16 GB* |