As an avid home theater enthusiast, I get asked constantly by friends which TV they should buy. And one match-up I find myself analyzing a lot recently is how LG‘s 2023 C3 OLED stacks up against their 2020 CX OLED model. With the CX now being a 3-year-old model, it has come down substantially in price from its original MSRP. So is it still worth shelling out extra money for LG‘s latest-generation C3?
I aim to answer that question here by comparing these two OLEDs across all the metrics that matter most: picture quality, smart features, gaming performance, audio, design, and more. After poring through the specs and hands-on reviews, I‘ll share my expert recommendation on which model delivers the best value. Let‘s dive in!
LG C3 vs CX Comparison Chart
Here is a high-level overview of how the key specs stack up between the LG C3 and LG CX OLED TV models:
| Specification | LG C3 | LG CX |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2022 | 2020 |
| Available Screen Sizes | 42", 48", 55", 65", 77", 83" | 48", 55", 65", 77" |
| Display Type | OLED | OLED |
| Resolution | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) |
| HDR Support | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, HLG | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, HLG |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Processor | α9 Gen 5 AI Processor | α9 Gen 3 AI Processor |
| Smart TV Platform | webOS 22 | webOS 6.0 |
As you can see from the table, these two OLED TVs share many of the core technical specs like 4K resolution, HDR support, and 120Hz refresh rates.
However, there are some notable differences that give the C3 an edge:
- Wider range of screen sizes – With 6 options (up to a massive 83-inch model), the C3 fits more home theater configurations
- Faster processor – The α9 Gen 5 AI Processor enables better upscaling, smoother motion, and more intelligent image enhancement
- Newer webOS platform – The C3 runs the latest 2022 webOS version for faster performance and access to newer LG smart TV features
Next, let‘s take a deeper look at why those differences matter and how they impact real-world performance.
LG C3 Delivers Better Picture Quality
As an OLED TV, both the C3 and CX produce perfect black levels and infinite contrast since each pixel emits its own light. So they share the top-tier picture quality OLED panels are known for.
However, with its faster α9 Gen 5 processor unlocking LG‘s latest imaging algorithms, the C3 does gain a slight picture advantage.
For example, the processor‘s improved upscaling ensures lower-resolution content looks crisp on the C3‘s 4K panel. It also enables better motion handling with less blur in action scenes.
And automatic modes like Dolby Vision IQ and Filmmaker Mode on the C3 optimize the picture on-the-fly based on lighting conditions and content type.
While the CX still offers excellent visuals, the C3‘s processing and software refinements take it a step further. So media enthusiasts who want the best picture will appreciate the upgrade.
Gaming Gets a Boost on the C3
For gamers, the C3 brings a major improvement – the new Game Optimizer menu. This dedicated hub fine-tunes the TV‘s settings to optimize the gaming experience.
You can quickly dial in genre-specific presets for FPS, RPGs, and RTS titles that adjust brightness, contrast, and even audio mix. There‘s also a handy dashboard to monitor critical stats like input lag.
Plus, with the latest HDMI 2.1 ports, the C3 supports cutting-edge gaming features like 4K/120Hz input, variable refresh rate (VRR), and auto low latency mode (ALLM).
The CX is no gaming slouch either with HDMI 2.1 and G-Sync compatibility. But it lacks the helpful software enhancements tailored to gaming that the C3 includes.
webOS 22 Offers Better Smart Features
LG‘s intuitive webOS platform powers the smart capabilities on both models. But the C3‘s webOS 22 software gives you quicker access and better integration of streaming services and connected devices.
A standout feature is "Always Ready" mode, which keeps the TV primed for instant-on voice commands even when powered off.
There are also pequilar, yet welcome, touches in webOS 22 like personal profiles, ambient mood lighting modes, and AI picture/audio presets tailored to what‘s onscreen.
Given rapid advances in streaming technology and connected services, webOS 22 feels like a nice jump up from the aging webOS 6 on the CX.
More Screen Size Options on the C3
One practical difference between these models is the number of screen sizes offered:
- LG C3 – 42", 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, 83"
- LG CX – 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”
With 6 options available, the C3 fits more living rooms and budgets. The expansive 83" model also satisfies big screen enthusiasts who want maximum cinematic impact.
And 2023 production efficiencies enabled LG to introduce a smaller, more affordable 42" C3 variant this year.
So when choosing between them, the C3 gives you greater flexibility on dialing in the right screen dimensions for your space.
C3 Delivers More Future-Proof Experience
In assessing technological longevity between the C3 and CX, there are a few areas where the C3 gains an edge:
Processor – With the boost from the α9 Gen 5 AI Processor over the CX’s Gen 3, the C3 is better positioned to handle future image quality advancements powered by AI and machine learning.
Software Updates – As LG issues ongoing firmware updates to improve performance and patch bugs, owners can expect more years of support for the 2022-released C3 over the CX.
HDMI 2.1 – While both models have HDMI 2.1 ports enabling next-gen gaming features today, the C3’s I/O hardware is more likely to remain compatible with specifications that evolve years down the road.
Smart Features – With webOS 22 just released in 2022, its software and app integration will stay relevant for more years of the fast-changing streaming TV landscape compared to webOS 6.
In home theater, staying power is critical when making a premium TV investment. And the C3 holds up better in that department over the aging CX.
LG C3 vs CX Pricing
As you weigh these OLEDs, price always factors into the decision.
Good news is that 3 years after its release, the CX has come down over 50% from its original MSRP. For example, the 65" CX model hovers around $1,500 these days.
Meanwhile, the 65” C3 debuted in 2022 at a $2,500 MSRP, which is standard for a new-generation premium OLED. Discounts aren‘t as steep given its fresh release, but you can find it on sale now for approximately $1,800.
So in most head-to-head size matchups, the CX maintains a lower cost. Though it varies across retailers, expect to pay anywhere from $200 – $500+ more for an equivalent C3.
To me, that‘s a reasonable premium for the OLED refinements and improved future-proofing given TVs often last 5-7 years in the living room. But budget is always a consideration.
Bottom Line
The LG CX remains a fantastic OLED TV, especially for the lower prices it now commands. It‘s still a go-to option I recommend to friends seeking premium picture quality at a fair cost.
However, as LG‘s next-generation C Series model, the C3 does push OLED performance even further. Factor in hardware and software upgrades better optimized for movies, gaming, and future-proofing, and I believe it justifies paying extra over the CX for the overall package.
Yes, you sacrifice some savings going with the C3. But in return, you lock in improved technology that keeps up better with the rapid pace of changes across home entertainment and gaming. So if you want the latest and greatest to enhance those experiences, the small splurge makes sense.
Have questions about choosing between these two LG OLED models? Ask me below!
OLED TV Evolution at LG
To better understand the advancements LG builds into each generation of OLED TVs, it helps to look back at some history…
LG has been at the forefront of OLED display development for decades now. Their sister company LG Display was one of first the commercialize the technology at scale for TV production.
1980s: OLED tech first invented
2010s: LG debuts first large screen OLED TV
Today: LG ships over 90% of all OLED TV panels globally
Unlike conventional LED LCD televisions that require a backlight, OLED stands for ”organic light-emitting diode.” Each pixel on an OLED panel gives off its own light.
This technology enables key picture quality advantages like perfect blacks, improved contrast, wider viewing angles, and fast response times.
However, light output and lifespan remain primary challenges holding OLED back from overtaking LED in the broader TV market. Brighter picture for well-lit environments as well as extended longevity require ongoing innovations.
Key Innovations in Recent Years
– Brightness Boost – Through panel and processing enhancements, LG has increased peak OLED brightness up to 30% in recent generations
– Large Screen Sizes – Thanks to production efficiencies, OLED panel sizes now scale up to a massive 97-inch screen
– 8K Resolution – The latest processors can now support rendering content in high-res 8K definition
– Thinner Profiles – Structure improvements allow dramatically thinner OLED panels, some less than 3mm thin
You see the impact of those changes comparing LG‘s current 2023 C3 and G3 models against predecessors like the CX.
And LG Display promises OLED will reach three times higher brightness than today‘s models by 2025. They are also targeting over a decade of use before any degradation in picture quality.
Exciting enhancements lie ahead!
Key OLED TV Buying Considerations
Based on my experience evaluating hundreds of televisions over the years, here are some of my top tips for choosing the right OLED TV:
1. Viewing Environment – If you watch TV primarily in brighter rooms, an OLED may not be best suited. Though their brightness is improving, standard LED LCDs like QLED can achieve higher peak brightness. But for darker home theaters, OLED remains king.
2. Screen Size – When upgrading to 4K resolution, I typically suggest going to a minimum 55-inch screen size to appreciate the added detail. Go as big as your budget allows as long as you maintain ideal viewing distance.
3. Future-Proofing – newer processor, HDMI 2.1 ports for gaming, and software upgradability are key indicators of how “future-proof” any 4K TV selection will be moving forward
4. Price Drop Resistance – Unlike LED LCD tech, OLED panel pricing has stayed fairly firm year-over-year even on older models. Less frequent discounts. So target best deal on latest model available.
5. Extended Warranties – Due to potential permanent burn-in risks, I am more inclined to suggest buyers protecting their investment in OLEDs with 3-5 year extended warranty plans
Evaluate both picture quality needs AND practical elements before finalizing an OLED purchase. And don‘t hesitate to ask me any other questions!
About the Author
As an experienced home theater specialist and technophile, I‘ve evaluated over 500+ televisions and monitors during my career.
In testing the latest OLEDs, mini-LEDs, and other display technologies each year, I stay up-to-date on their real-world performance for sports, movies, gaming, and more.
Through hands-on testing and calibrating sets side-by-side, I analyze subtle differences in picture quality, processor capabilities, smart platforms, and other aspects integral to these complex 4K TVs.
My goal is always to cut through the overly technical jargon and marketing hype…and offer straightforward guidance to help buyers understand what best fits their needs and budget.
I hope this overview gives you greater confidence in weighing this LG vs LG match-up for yourself. Let me know if you have any other questions!
