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LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED – should you upgrade?

Here's how the brand new LG G4 compares to the tried and trusted LG G2
Last Updated on March 4, 2024
LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED. Image shows LG G4 OLED and LG G2 OLED on a purple gradient background.
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As we usher in the era of MLA technology, we’re comparing the new TV from the G-series lineup to its predecessor from 2022: here’s the LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED. The LG G4 OLED is available for pre-order on the LG website, and with TVs expected to be out for shipping in late March, many are considering an upgrade from the old LG G2 OLED model to the LG G4. But will the investment be worth it? Well, you should find everything you need to inform your decision right here.

LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED specs comparison

SpecificationsLG G4 OLEDLG G2 OLED
Panel TechnologyMLA OLED | 97″ – WOLEDOLED
ProcessorAlpha 11 AI processorA9 Gen5 AI processor
Resolution4K (3840 x 2160)4K (3840 x 2160)
Peak brightnessUp to 3,000 nits896.7 nits
Refresh rate144Hz120Hz
Response timeLess than 0.1ms0.1ms
OLED glare-freeNoNo
HDR compatibilityHDR 10+HDR 10
VRRHDMI 2.1 VRR, FreeSync, G-SyncHDMI 2.1 VRR, FreeSync, G-Sync
AudioAI Sound Pro, wireless lossless Dolby AtmosAI Sound Pro, Dolby Atmos
Unique featuresOLED Evo MLA panel, OLED EX, heatsink Brightness booster Max, Game Optimizer & dashboardGeForce Now, Dolby Vision Gaming 4K at 120Hz, Dolby Vision IQ with Precision Detail 
LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED specs comparison table

As part of LG’s OLED series, the LG G4 OLED and LG G2 OLED boast cutting-edge features tailored to elevate your viewing experience. The LG G4 OLED steps up with its Micro Lens Array WOLED (White OLED) screen technology showcased at CES 2024, promising a crisp contrast of vivid colors and deep blacks. Its 4K resolution ensures crystal-clear imagery that’s a step above the LG G2 OLED. Moreover, the LG G4 takes the lead with its potential peak brightness and refresh rate, reaching up to an impressive 3,000 nits and 144Hz, compared to the 896.7 nit brightness levels and 120Hz of the LG G2 OLED. With the capability to push up to 144 Hz, the G4 offers smoother motion handling than the LG G2’s 120 Hz. Additionally, HDR compatibility upgrades, with the LG G4 supporting HDR 10+, while the LG G2 sticks to HDR 10.

Design-wise, both the LG G2 OLED TV and the LG G4 OLED TV exude elegance and sophistication. However, the LG G4 OLED TV comes with sleeker bezels, a thinner profile, and more modern design elements, making it a visually striking addition to any living space or entertainment setup. If aesthetics play a significant role in your decision-making process, the design enhancements of the G4 model might sway you towards an upgrade. However, being wall-mounted is a feature particular to the G-series range, and both will fit flush to the wall effectively with LG’s very own ‘Zero Gap Wall Mount’, despite tiny disparities in their overall look.

LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED performance

Since the LG G4 OLED is a more recent development it has advanced software and hardware. This is evident in its specs, which indicate a significant performance boost over its predecessor. The higher refresh rate ensures smoother motion and enhances gaming and fast-paced content viewing experiences. The HDR 10+ support on the LG G4 promises richer and more lifelike colors, elevating the visual quality of compatible content. However, it’s worth noting that most of these performance improvements will come down to the use of the new Alpha 11 AI processor.

This processor excels in upscaling content, improving motion handling, and fine-tuning colors, overall enhancing picture quality through its deep learning technology. This cutting-edge processor has been designed to offer a 70% increase in graphics power and a 30% upgrade in overall processing compared to the G3 series, which of course was already a huge improvement over the G2.

LG G4 OLED vs LG G2 OLED price and value

Screen sizeLG G4 priceLG G2 price
55-inch$2,599.99$2,200
65-inch$3,299.99$3,000
77-inch$4,599.99$4,000
83-inch$6,499.99$6,500
97-inch$24,999N/A
Screen size and price for the LG G4 and LG G2

As with any technological advancement, the upgrade to the LG G4 OLED comes at a price. The LG G4 OLED commands a premium over its predecessor, reflecting the advancements in display technology and performance enhancements. However, the investment may be justified for those seeking the latest in OLED innovation and an unparalleled viewing experience.

Really, the value proposition of the LG G4 OLED lies in its ability to future-proof your entertainment setup. With support for the latest HDR standards and higher peak brightness, the LG G4 ensures compatibility with upcoming content and technologies, making it a wise long-term investment for avid cinephiles and gamers alike. Moreover, the comparison is made based on the prices of their respective launch dates. If you compare them today, you could easily find LG G2 OLED TV’s at a lower price.

Is the LG G4 better than the LG G2?

In terms of which TV is better, the refreshed specs of the G4 do position it as the superior device in this comparison. However, the decision to upgrade from the LG G2 OLED to the LG G4 OLED does just boil down to your specific needs and priorities. If you crave the latest in display technology and demand the best possible picture quality and performance, the LG G4 OLED undoubtedly delivers. Its higher peak brightness, enhanced refresh rate, and support for HDR 10+ set it apart as a formidable contender in the OLED TV market. But, if you’re satisfied with the performance of your LG G2 OLED, and don’t require the additional features offered by the LG G4, you might be able to hold out on upgrading for a couple more years to come.

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.