Why last year's LG C5 OLED is my top TV recommendation right now - especially at 50% off

2026-02-13 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Internet of Things (IoT) & Connected Devices, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Novice, medium

Summary

The LG C5 OLED TV, a 2025 model, delivers exceptional picture quality with dazzling brightness and color, positioning it among the top OLED TVs available. It features an ultra-slim design, measuring only 0.25 inches thick for two-thirds of its screen, and premium material choices. Powered by the Alpha 9 Gen 8 processor, the C5 includes AI Super Upscaling for lower-resolution content and AI-assisted Deep Learning to optimize viewing preferences. It also offers AI Concierge for content suggestions and maintains four HDMI 2.1 and three USB 2.0 ports. While its visual performance is highly rated, the audio performance with AI Sound Pro is less impressive, and the Magic Remote design has some usability quirks. The 65-inch model is currently available for over $1,300 off its original price.

Key takeaway

For consumers considering a high-end television purchase, you should carefully weigh the LG C5 OLED's premium price against its incremental upgrades. While the C5 offers superior picture quality and AI features, its nominal improvements over the 2024 C4 series, which can be found for significantly less, suggest that the C4 might offer better value until the C5's price drops further. Evaluate your budget and prioritize either the absolute latest technology or cost-effectiveness.

Key insights

The LG C5 OLED TV offers stunning visual performance and AI-driven features, but its value proposition is debated against its predecessor.

Principles

• Picture quality is paramount for television evaluation.
• AI features can enhance user experience and content optimization.

Method

TV performance testing involves scrutinizing demanding movie scenes and conducting systematized calibrations and stress tests to evaluate visual and audio quality.

In practice

• Disable Energy Saver modes for optimal HDR brightness.
• Use ISF Expert Bright Room setting for best performance.
• Consider a soundbar to improve audio quality.

Topics

• LG C5 OLED TV
• Alpha 9 Gen 8 Processor
• AI Super Upscaling
• OLED Technology
• Smart TV Features

Best for: General Interest, Tech Journalist, Domain Expert

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.