The LG C2 OLED TV has dominated best-of lists and earned rave reviews since its release, and for good reason. This stunning display combines LG‘s most advanced OLED panel technology, a powerful image processor, an intuitive smart TV interface, and gamer-friendly features to deliver one of the most well-rounded premium TV experiences available today.
Whether you‘re a discerning cinephile, a hardcore gamer, or just someone who appreciates the best possible picture quality, the LG C2 makes a compelling case for a place in your living room or home theater. Let‘s dive into the top 10 reasons why you should strongly consider making the LG C2 your next TV purchase.
1. HDMI 2.1 Ports Unlock Next-Gen Gaming
One of the LG C2‘s biggest selling points, especially for gamers, is the inclusion of four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports. This cutting-edge connectivity standard enables advanced features that take full advantage of the latest gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
With HDMI 2.1, the C2 can accept a 4K signal at up to 120 frames per second, providing ultra-smooth motion and responsive gameplay. It also supports variable refresh rate (VRR) technology, which dynamically synchronizes the TV‘s refresh rate with the frame rate output of a gaming source to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.
Additionally, auto low latency mode (ALLM) allows the C2 to automatically switch into a gaming-optimized picture mode when it detects a gaming signal, ensuring the lowest possible input lag without having to navigate through menu settings.
The advantages of HDMI 2.1 extend beyond just consoles too. If you have a gaming PC equipped with an HDMI 2.1 graphics card, you can enjoy the same VRR and high refresh rate benefits at 4K resolution. The C2 is also one of the few TVs to support Dolby Vision gaming at 4K/120Hz on the Xbox Series X/S.
2. Spectacular Picture Quality
Of course, the LG C2‘s gaming prowess would be wasted if it didn‘t also have a top-notch display panel. Fortunately, picture quality is one area where this TV absolutely shines.
The C2 features LG‘s latest OLED "evo" panel, which builds upon the already impressive performance of previous models. Self-emitting OLED pixels allow the TV to achieve perfect black levels, outstanding contrast, and wide viewing angles.
LG‘s generational improvements have also increased the overall brightness, addressing one of the few weaknesses of OLED technology compared to high-end LCDs and QLEDs. The C2 isn‘t quite as bright as QD-OLED models like the Samsung S95B, but it‘s still excellent for an OLED and sufficient for most viewing environments.
Color reproduction is another strength, with the C2 covering nearly 100% of the DCI-P3 wide color gamut used for HDR content. It supports a range of HDR formats too, including Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG.
LG‘s a9 Gen5 AI processor powers it all, using advanced algorithms and deep learning to optimize picture quality based on the content. This processor enables independent optimization of foreground and background image elements, precise upscaling of sub-4K content, and dynamic tone mapping to make HDR images look as impactful as possible.
3. Compelling Home Theater Experience
The combination of the C2‘s impressive picture quality, HDR support, and excellent overall image processing make it a fantastic choice for home theater enthusiasts. If you‘re looking to replicate a cinematic experience in your living room, this TV will not disappoint.
LG‘s mid-range CX and C1 models were already popular among home theater fans, and the C2‘s evolutionary improvements make an already great foundation even better. It handles everything from HDR blockbusters to classic films with ease, delivering an immersive viewing experience.
The C2 really shines with 4K Blu-rays and 4K HDR streaming content, where its perfect black levels, wide color gamut, and great shadow detail combine to produce an image with outstanding depth and dimensionality. It also does an excellent job of upscaling lower resolution content like DVDs and HD cable TV thanks to LG‘s a9 Gen5 processor.
For an added dose of Hollywood magic, the C2 supports Filmmaker Mode. This setting, established by the UHD Alliance, disables post-processing effects like motion smoothing and switches the color space to match the mastering monitor, allowing you to see movies as the creators intended.
And if you‘re concerned about potential burn-in from static on-screen elements, LG implements a range of preventative measures including pixel shifting and logo detection to mitigate the risk. The company also offers a generous 5-year warranty for burn-in when you register your TV after purchase.
4. Easy to Use Smart TV Interface
A great viewing experience is about more than just picture quality – it‘s also about being able to easily find and access the content you want to watch. On that front, LG‘s webOS smart TV platform is among the best in the business.
WebOS on the C2 strikes a nice balance between flexibility and simplicity. The interface is built around a customizable launch bar that provides quick access to your favorite streaming apps, while the full app menu lets you easily find and download new services from LG‘s extensive content library.
The platform supports all the most popular video and music streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Apple TV+, Spotify, Pandora, and many more. It also integrates live TV if you have an antenna or set-top box connected.
Navigation is a breeze thanks to LG‘s Magic Remote, which lets you control an on-screen cursor just by pointing the remote at the screen. It also offers voice control via the built-in microphone, with support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
For those with iOS/Apple devices, the C2 supports AirPlay 2, allowing you to easily mirror content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. It‘s also compatible with Apple‘s HomeKit platform for smart home integration.
5. Sleek, Ultra-Thin Design
From an aesthetic perspective, the LG C2 is a stunning specimen of modern TV design. The centerpiece is the impossibly thin OLED panel, which measures just a quarter of an inch deep at its thinnest point.
This ultra-slim form factor is possible because OLED TVs don‘t require a backlight system like traditional LCDs/QLEDs. The self-emitting pixels produce their own light, allowing for a much sleeker profile.
Of course, the electronics have to go somewhere, so the lower portion of the TV‘s rear bulges out a bit more. But when viewed from the front, the C2 is still incredibly thin, with a nearly bezel-less screen that seems to float in space.
The included stand is simple but elegant, with a low profile that keeps the focus on the screen. The 42 and 48 inch model use a pair of narrow feet instead to provide stability on smaller surfaces. You also have the option to wall-mount the TV with a VESA mounting system.
Overall, the C2‘s design is a perfect match for its premium picture quality and feature set. It‘s a TV that will look great in any room, whether you place it on a stand or mount it on a wall.
6. Immersive Sound Out of the Box
Although a good soundbar or surround sound setup can definitely enhance the viewing experience, the LG C2‘s built-in audio system is quite capable on its own.
LG equips the TV with a 2.2 channel speaker setup (40W on the 55"+ models) that delivers surprisingly good sound quality for integrated TV speakers. It supports virtual 7.1.2 channel surround sound and uses AI algorithms to automatically optimize the audio to suit the content.
Crucially, the C2 also offers native decoding for Dolby Atmos, the leading 3D surround sound format. This means you can enjoy immersive Atmos audio from supported content without needing any external speakers (although a true Atmos setup with upward-firing drivers will still provide an upgraded experience).
The C2 also does a solid job with more mundane audio duties like reproducing clear dialogue and generating an expansive soundstage with stereo music. While a dedicated audio system is still recommended for the best possible sound, the C2‘s built-in speakers are more than adequate for casual viewing.
7. Wide Range of Sizes
Another key benefit of the LG C2 is the wide range of screen sizes it comes in. The series starts at a compact 42 inches, which is perfect for smaller rooms, apartments, or even desktop gaming setups. It then spans a range of popular sizes including 48, 55, 65, and 77 inches.
If you want to go truly big, there‘s even an 83-inch monster that can serve as the centerpiece of a dedicated home theater room. This expansive size flexibility makes it easy to find a C2 that suits your specific needs and space constraints.
By contrast, many other premium TV lines are only available in 55 inches and up. Smaller OLED models in particular are still fairly rare, so the 42-inch option is a great advantage for the C2 line.
No matter which size you choose, you‘ll get the same core features, processing, and underlying panel technology. LG doesn‘t limit features to just the larger sizes as some other brands do.
8. Improved Brightness Over Previous Models
As mentioned earlier, brightness has traditionally been one of the few weaknesses of OLED TVs compared to high-end LCD/QLED models. While the perfect black levels, wide viewing angles, and near-instantaneous response times of OLED are prized by videophiles, some users find the peak brightness insufficient, especially in rooms with uncontrolled ambient light.
LG has been working to address this limitation with each new generation of OLED TV, and the C2 represents a significant step forward. Thanks to the more advanced "evo" OLED panel and improved processing, the C2 is around 20% brighter than last year‘s C1 model.
In real-world terms, this means the C2 can hit peak HDR brightness levels of around 800-900 nits, depending on the specific content and settings. That‘s still short of what top-end QLED models can achieve, but it‘s excellent for an OLED TV and allows the set to deliver impactful HDR even in moderately bright viewing environments.
Of course, the C2‘s HDR performance isn‘t just about raw brightness. The TV‘s perfect black levels, wide color gamut coverage, and dynamic tone mapping also play a big role in producing an image with outstanding contrast and dimension.
9. Useful Extra Features
Beyond its core capabilities, the LG C2 also offers a range of extra features that help enhance the user experience:
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Game Optimizer: This dedicated interface provides quick access to gaming-related settings like VRR, G-Sync/FreeSync, and a black stabilizer function. It also shows key info like the current frame rate and whether HDR is active.
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WiSA Support: The C2 can wirelessly connect to compatible WiSA-certified speakers for a clutter-free audio setup.
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HGIG Support: This HDR gaming standard ensures accurate tone mapping when playing HDR games on consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
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FreeSync/G-Sync: Along with HDMI VRR, the C2 also supports FreeSync and G-Sync variable refresh rate technology for smoother gaming from AMD and NVIDIA-equipped PCs.
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Gallery Mode: This feature turns the TV into a digital art frame when not in use, displaying paintings, photos, or soothing animations.
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Sports Alert: You can have the TV notify you in real-time about scoring updates or the start of games featuring your favorite teams.
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Multi View: This mode lets you watch two sources side-by-side, with several different split-screen layouts.
While not all of these features will be useful for every user, they demonstrate LG‘s commitment to providing a full-featured smart TV experience that goes beyond just the basics. They help the C2 feel like a truly premium, next-gen television.
10. Excellent Value Compared to Alternatives
For all its strengths, perhaps the most compelling reason to buy an LG C2 right now is the excellent value it offers compared to other options in its class.
While not cheap in absolute terms, the C2 is actually very competitively priced for a TV with its features and performance. It significantly undercuts comparable models from other brands like the Samsung S95B and Sony A95K while offering largely similar core picture quality and gaming features.
The C2 is also frequently available with discounts or promotions, especially now that it‘s been on the market for a while. This can bring the price down even further, making it an outstanding value for videophiles, gamers, and general users alike.
Even compared to LG‘s own step-up G2 "Gallery Series" OLED, the C2 is probably the better value for most buyers. The G2 offers slightly higher peak brightness and includes an ultra-slim wall mount, but costs significantly more at each size. Unless you absolutely need the extra brightness or plan to exclusively wall-mount the TV, the C2 is likely the smarter choice.
So while the C2 may not be the absolute cheapest TV on the market, it delivers exceptional performance and features for the price. It‘s a true premium TV experience without an exorbitant price tag.
The Bottom Line
All things considered, it‘s hard to find a TV that offers a better combination of performance, features, design, and value than the LG C2. While no product is perfect, this set comes about as close as any for its intended use case.
Whether you‘re a gamer looking to get the most out of your PS5 or Xbox Series X, a movie buff seeking to recreate the cinema experience at home, or just an everyday viewer who appreciates great picture quality, the C2 is a fantastic choice. With sizes ranging from 42 to 83 inches, it can fit into just about any room or setup.
So if you‘ve been thinking about upgrading your TV, now is a great time to pull the trigger on an LG C2. With excellent performance, useful features, and frequent discounts, it‘s one of the best home entertainment purchases you can make.
