Competing with mini-LED is a big ask
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The latest range of OLED TVs are now here, with the likes of the LG G4 and LG C4 TVs going up for pre order in the past few days. With the LG G4 offering a new level of brightness boost technology and MLA tech now stretching to its 83″ model, how does it match up to mini-LED TVs? We take a closer look.
Before any extensive hands-on testing has been done, we don’t have much technical data to see how that LG G4 OLED TV will compare to current flagship mini-LED models such Sony’s X95L. We do know however it comes much closer in terms of brightness, aiding HDR visuals and use in well-lit environments. Another OLED this year, Samsung’s S95D, gets a more matte finish to support the latter.
Bright second-gen MLA OLED panel
Up to 144Hz, ideal for gaming PCs
Rapid responsiveness
Upgraded Alpha 11 AI Chip
MLA now available in 83″ model too
Expensive
Still no MLA in 97″ model
4K at 120Hz via HDMI 2.1
Bright mini LED backlighting
Exclusive features for PS5
Premium smart TV features
Very expensive
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CHECK PRICENo, we don’t think that the LG G4 will be able to compete at the same level as 2024 mini-LEDs, but it is getting closer than ever and could overtake older models in certain scenarios. Looking back to the LG G3 and Sony X95L, results from RTINGS show that these panels could reach a peak HDR brightness of 1,442 and 1,802 nits respectively, which is just as we’d expect.
A report from FlatpanelsHD reveal that Sony prototypes place their 2024 model around 1.5 times brighter, in part thanks to more local dimming zones crammed in. As for the LG G4, peak brightness is also up to 150% brighter than their standard OLED panel on the B4, which lacks both evo and MLA tech. With reports that the LG G4 could hit 3000 nits, it may just overtake current mini-LED panels for highlights, but we probably can’t say the same for 100% of the panel where mini-LED shines.
When comparing mini LED vs OLED, you’ll find that mini-LED technology is designed for high levels of brightness without the worry of burn-in. LG are doing their best to counter-act the potential of burn-in with a heatsink in the G-series and plenty of panel/pixel refresh features or similar designed to minimize it.
High-end models like the LG G4 may be catching up to mini-LED, but it’s a game of cat and mouse and the potential for mini-LED seems to be higher in the brightness department. Samsung’s range of QD-OLED TVs also seem to have much more headroom, but we’ll have to wait and see.
For gaming, we’d definitely go for OLED due to responsiveness. And if you’re only going to be using your TV in a dimly-lit room without the worry of screen glare, OLED works perfectly. However, mini-LED is great a great alternative for any living space and should offer more longevity.
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