LG C5 OLED Review: Still a Champion in a Sea of Contenders?

The LG C-series has consistently represented the sweet spot in the OLED TV market, balancing cutting-edge technology with (relatively) attainable pricing. The C5, while not the newest kid on the block, still holds significant appeal. But in a rapidly evolving landscape of Mini-LEDs and ever-improving OLED panels, does it still deserve a place in your living room? Let’s dive in.
The C5’s picture quality remains undeniably impressive. OLED technology delivers perfect blacks and infinite contrast, resulting in stunning depth and realism. Colors are vibrant and accurate, enhanced by LG’s advanced processing. While peak brightness doesn’t quite reach the levels of newer, higher-end models, it’s still more than sufficient for most viewing environments. Gamers will appreciate the ultra-low input lag and support for HDMI 2.1 features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience on the latest consoles and PCs.
Design-wise, the C5 maintains LG’s sleek aesthetic. The thin panel and minimalist bezel make it a visually appealing addition to any setup. Build quality is solid, reflecting LG’s reputation for premium products. The included stand provides adequate support, but wall-mounting is always an option for a more immersive experience.

LG’s webOS smart TV platform is intuitive and easy to navigate. A wide range of streaming apps are readily available, and the Magic Remote offers convenient voice control and point-and-click navigation. However, webOS can occasionally feel a bit sluggish compared to some competing platforms, especially when multitasking. The abundance of pre-installed apps, while convenient for some, can feel like bloatware to others.

Ultimately, the LG C5’s value proposition hinges on price. New models boast incremental improvements, particularly in peak brightness and processing power. However, if you can find the C5 at a significantly reduced price, it represents an excellent entry point into the world of OLED, delivering exceptional picture quality and gaming performance without breaking the bank. It may lack the absolute cutting-edge features of its successors, but it’s far from obsolete.
The LG C5 OLED remains a compelling choice for those seeking a premium viewing experience at a potentially more affordable price point. It’s a particularly good fit for gamers and movie enthusiasts who prioritize picture quality and responsiveness.
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LG C5 OLED Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 91%
- Design: 93%
- Performance: 94%
- Quality: 93%
- Popularity: 91%
Top Pros
- ✅ OLED technology delivers stunning picture quality with perfect blacks and infinite contrast.
- ✅ Low input lag and HDMI 2.1 support make it excellent for gaming.
- ✅ The sleek design and thin bezel enhance the overall aesthetic.
Key Cons
- ❌ Peak brightness is lower than newer, more expensive OLED models.
- ❌ The webOS smart TV platform can sometimes feel sluggish and cluttered.
- ❌ Pre-installed apps might be considered bloatware by some users.
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