The LG C4 is now available for pre-order and is expected to arrive on the shelves at any minute. So, we thought it would be useful to see how it stacks up against other high-end OLED TVs on the market. In this article, we compare the LG C4 OLED vs Sony A90J, to ultimately decide which is the best OLED TV.
The main difference between the LG C4 and the Sony A90J is versatility; unfortunately, Sony only provides the A9J with 2x HDMI ports, while the LG C4 has double the amount. However, when it comes to brightness, the Sony A90J comes out on top. Let’s take a deeper look into the specs, performance, and price ranges of both these impressive products.
The LG C4 was recently announced at the annual CES event in January 2024. It was just one of many next-gen additions to the LG OLED TV lineup. If you’d like to find out more about some of the other LG TVs set to release this year, check out our LG G4 vs LG B4 comparison, where we take a look at both upcoming products to see which would best suit you. Additionally, if you’d like to find out more about the LG C4, then take a look at our LG C4 release date round-up, where we discuss the predicted release window, confirmed prices, and provide direct pre-order links.
LG C4 OLED vs Sony A90J – specs at a glance
| Specifications | LG C4 OLED | Sony A90J |
|---|---|---|
| Sizes | 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″ | 55″, 65″, 83″ |
| Ports | 4x HDMI 2.1 | 2x HDMI 2.1 |
| Panel Type | WOLED | WOLED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160p (4K) | 3840 x 2160p (4K) |
| HDR | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision |
| Smart TV software | Web OS 24 | Google TV 10 |
| Processor | Alpha a9 AI | Cognitive Processor XR |
| Native refresh rate | 144Hz | 120Hz |
Specs and performance comparison
Sound Quality
The LG C4 is decked out with a suite of audio enhancements including Dolby Audio, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X, ensuring that every auditory detail is delivered with clarity and depth. Its AI Sound Pro feature further enhances this experience by tailoring the audio output to match the content, ensuring that whether you’re watching a fast-paced action movie or a dialogue-heavy drama, the sound is always optimized for the best listening experience.
In contrast, Sony’s A90J introduces a novel audio concept with its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, where the TV screen itself doubles as the speaker. This innovative approach offers a uniquely immersive audio experience, with sounds emanating directly from their corresponding actions on the screen, adding an extra layer of realism to your viewing.
Combined with Dolby Atmos and other high-quality sound technologies, the A90J not only matches the C4 in terms of clarity and depth but also surpasses it with its ability to deliver a more robust bass response, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing sound in their TV selection.
As previously mentioned, the main difference between the two TVs is connectivity, which can play a vital role when considering a consumer’s intended use. Gamers who hope to connect multiple devices or consoles during gameplay would find the LG C4 with its 4x HDMI ports the more useful option. Conversely, the Sony A90J with only 2x HDMI ports definitely lacks the versatility of its competitor.
Performance and brightness
At the heart of Sony’s A90J lies the Cognitive Processor XR, outshining the LG C4’s Alpha a9 AI processor with its superior image processing capabilities, designed to deliver a more natural and accurate viewing experience. This processor is finely tuned to complement the TV’s OLED panel, enhancing the overall picture quality.
Where the Sony A90J further distinguishes itself is with its XR Motion Clarity technology, adept at minimizing motion blur. This technology, which manipulates the OLED panel’s backlight, ensures smoother and more defined visuals during rapid scene changes, a feature particularly beneficial for fans of action-packed movies and sports.
Coupled with its exceptional brightness, the A90J stands out as a formidable choice for brightly lit environments, offering vivid and dynamic imagery where other OLED TVs might falter.
On the other hand, the LG C4 doesn’t lag far behind, boasting the Alpha a9 AI processor that actively works to polish the image quality by reducing noise, improving brightness levels, sharpening vibrant colors, and amplifying deep blacks. It also incorporates AI-driven enhancements, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with picture quality.
Price comparison
The LG C4 OLED and Sony A90J find themselves closely matched in terms of pricing, each presenting compelling choices within the same ballpark. For the 55-inch models, both TVs are tagged at $1,999, making them equally attractive from a financial standpoint. The differentiation comes into play with the 65-inch models, where the Sony A90J asks for a slight premium at $2,999, just $200 more than the LG C4’s $2,699.
| Sizes | LG C4 OLED | Sony A95L |
|---|---|---|
| 55 inches | $1,999 | $1,999 |
| 65 inches | $2,699 | $2,999 |
This marginal price increase for the Sony model might be justifiable for users prioritizing superior image processing and sound quality offered by its Cognitive Processor XR and Acoustic Surface Audio+.
LG C4 OLED vs Sony A90J – which is better?
When it comes to choosing between the LG C4 OLED and the Sony A90J, the decision is nuanced. The Sony A90J edges out with superior brightness and overall quality, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing visual excellence. However, the LG C4’s advancements in AI technology and its greater connectivity options present a compelling case for users with specific needs, such as gaming or a home theater setup requiring multiple inputs. Ultimately, while the A90J may hold the title of the better TV in a general sense, the C4’s unique features ensure it remains a highly competitive and suitable choice for certain audiences.
When is the LG C4 coming out?
There has been no official confirmation from LG as to when the LG C4 will be released. However, pre-ordering is currently available on some websites like the LG store and Amazon, which leads us to believe that the product should be arriving very soon. In the Amazon listings, it is stated that the product will be released on March 11th. It’s uncertain if every retailer will be releasing at the same time, but if you’re looking to pick up an LG C4 early, then head over to the Amazon website to pre-order.
If you’d like to find out some more about the other expected retailers of the LG C4, then check out our where-to-buy guide, where we go into more detail on the topic.
LG C4 OLED vs Sony A90J – conclusion
For those who value connectivity, especially the necessity for more HDMI ports, the LG C4 emerges as the more fitting option, without sacrificing much in the way of performance or quality. However, if you value unmatched image processing and sound quality then the Sony A90J emerges as the better option for your setup. In essence, the choice boils down to specific needs and preferences, with both models standing on equal footing price-wise.
