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Televisions: Samsung 55" QLED TV vs. LG 55" OLED TV

Quick Verdict

The LG 55" OLED TV generally provides superior picture quality, particularly in dark rooms, with its perfect black levels and excellent contrast. It also supports Dolby Vision and offers very low input lag for gaming. The Samsung 55" QLED TV, however, can be brighter and more suitable for well-lit rooms, and some models include anti-glare coatings. The best choice depends on the viewing environment and specific feature preferences.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeSamsung 55" QLED TVLG 55" OLED TV
Screen Size55 inches55 inches
Display TechnologyQLED (Quantum Dot LED)OLED
Resolution4K (3840 x 2160 pixels)4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160)
Refresh Rate50Hz, 60Hz, 100Hz, and 120Hz models exist60 Hz, 120 Hz (VRR up to 144Hz or 165Hz on some models)
HDR SupportHDR10+, Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), Quantum HDR. Dolby Vision support is not available on all models.Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, Cinema HDR
Smart TV PlatformTizen OSwebOS
Number of HDMI Ports3 or 43, 4 (HDMI 2.1)
Input LagSome models have Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for gaming. A Q80D model was measured at 9.8ms for 60Hz input.As low as 1ms with Game Optimizer. Some models have around 9ms input lag with specific settings enabled.
Peak BrightnessSome models have 450 nits brightness.Varies by model. Some reach 1430 nits, others can exceed 2400 nits on small highlights. Full-screen brightness can be around 400 nits.
Contrast RatioFeatures like Dual LED backlighting and Supreme UHD Dimming enhance contrast.Near Infinite
Color Volume (DCI-P3 coverage)100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot (DCI-P3 standard, certified by VDE)Perfect Color
Audio Output Power (Watts)20W, 40W20W, 40W, 60W depending on the model. Some have 2.0, 2.2 or 4.2 channel speaker systems.
PriceNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

LG OLED boasts 'Near Infinite' contrast ratio and input lag as low as 1ms, while Samsung QLED offers '100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot' and peak brightness up to 450 nits on some models.

Pros and Cons

Samsung 55" QLED TV

Pros:
  • Good picture quality in bright rooms due to high SDR peak brightness and color volume
  • 4K upscaling enhances non-4K content to near-4K resolution
  • Offers accurate colors, with PANTONE validation on some models
  • Some models have wide viewing angles
  • Tizen OS is generally responsive and user-friendly
  • Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for reduced input lag
  • Some models have Motion Xcelerator Turbo+ for 4K 120Hz gaming and FreeSync Premium Pro
  • Some models have an anti-glare coating to reduce reflections
  • Features like Adaptive Sound, Object Tracking Sound (OTS), and Q-Symphony for improved audio (on some models)
Cons:
  • Performance in dark rooms varies; models without local dimming may have poor black levels
  • Upscaling quality can vary depending on the content source
  • Some models are limited to a 60Hz refresh rate and lack Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
  • Some users have reported motion processing issues, such as frame rate drops during slow-motion scenes

LG 55" OLED TV

Pros:
  • Excellent picture quality in dark rooms with perfect black levels and vibrant colors
  • Good picture quality in bright rooms with sufficient brightness and anti-glare coatings
  • Good upscaling performance of non-4K content with AI upscaling
  • Accurate colors out of the box, especially in Filmmaker Mode
  • Wide viewing angles with consistent image quality from the sides
  • Responsive and user-friendly webOS smart TV platform
  • Handles fast motion well with low input lag and fast response times
  • Effective anti-glare coating in reducing reflections
  • Low input lag and fast response time for gaming
  • HDMI 2.1 ports and VRR support for gaming
  • Performs well with both HDR10 and Dolby Vision, delivering impactful highlights and vibrant colors
Cons:
  • Sound quality is decent, but a soundbar is recommended for a more immersive experience
  • HDR brightness may be dimmer in Game Optimizer mode for gaming

User Experiences and Feedback