I have always been a fan of LG OLED TVs and have been recommending them for years. However, with the introduction of Samsung’s QD OLED technology, LG’s position as the most technologically advanced panel manufacturer has been challenged. The major downside to LG OLED panels was their lack of brightness compared to Samsung’s QD OLEDs. But now, with the release of the LG G3, LG has addressed this issue.
The LG G3: Shedding the Low Brightness Stigma
While the LG G3 sacrifices some color accuracy for brightness, it is a minor tradeoff considering its overall performance and competitive pricing. As a result, the LG G3 is now considered one of the best OLED televisions on the market.
Design and Build
LG has always excelled in the design department, and the G3 is no exception. With its slim and bezel-less look, this television blends seamlessly with any living room decor. Its one-inch thickness throughout and lack of a stand (unless specifically requested or added to the purchase) make it a perfect choice for wall-mounting.
Connectivity and Cable Management
The LG G3 offers four HDMI 2.1 ports capable of delivering 4K at up to 120 frames per second. It also includes three USB 2.0 ports, an Ethernet port, and a digital optical audio input. While it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, it supports built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5. The eARC/ARC port is recommended for audio connections.
Cable management is outstanding, with well-designed cutouts that allow for easy routing and snap-on panels that keep cables hidden and the rear of the television looking clean.
The LG G3 Remote
LG’s remote control remains largely unchanged, offering a large size and motion control capabilities. While initially interesting, the motion control feature can become tiresome. The remote includes a number pad, shortcuts, a directional pad, and a scroll wheel that doubles as the main “okay” button. However, a redesign may benefit user experience.
Software and User Interface
The LG G3 utilizes the webOS smart TV interface, which offers a familiar and functional user experience. It allows for easy navigation, app selection, and loading speed. The display options are robust, and LG’s Game Bar and Game Optimizer provide additional features for gamers. While ads are present, most can be deactivated for a clean interface.
Picture Quality
The LG G3 excels in picture quality, thanks to its OLED technology. Colors are vibrant and true-to-life, with no over-saturation. There may be some slight stuttering in slow-panning content, but overall, the viewing experience is immersive and lifelike.
In conclusion, the LG G3 offers impressive brightness, slim design, excellent connectivity, and outstanding picture quality. While some tradeoffs exist, it remains one of the top OLED televisions available today.