Podcast Summary: Home Theater Geeks 483 – LG G4 vs G5

Episode Information:

• Title: Home Theater Geeks 483: LG G4 vs G5
• Host: Scott Wilkinson
• Release Date: May 22, 2025
• Description: Scott Wilkinson delves into the latest LG OLED TV models, comparing the G4 and G5 to help listeners make informed decisions about their home theater setups.

Listener's Inquiry

The episode kicks off with Scott Wilkinson addressing a question from a listener, Charles Simmons. Charles is contemplating upgrading his current 77-inch LG C Series OLED TV to an 83-inch model. He's torn between the discounted LG G4 and the newly available LG G5, considering factors like ambient light in his viewing room and potential price reductions in the future.

“I'm wondering if it's worth it to wait until later this year when the G5 will be reduced in price to get the newest screen technology.” – Charles Simmons [00:28]

LG G4 OLED Technology

Scott provides an in-depth analysis of the LG G4's OLED structure. The G4 utilizes a WRGB (White, Red, Green, Blue) configuration, which includes two layers of blue OLED sandwiched with layers that produce white light through color filters. This design aims to enhance brightness but can lead to color desaturation at higher brightness levels.

“The white light… goes through a red filter, a green filter, a blue filter, and a clear filter… to form a complete color pixel.” – Scott Wilkinson [03:15]

Additionally, the G4 incorporates LG's Microlens Array (MLA) technology, introduced in 2023, which places tiny lenses in front of each pixel to direct more light toward the viewer. This results in a claimed 22% increase in energy efficiency and enhanced brightness.

“LG claims 5,000 or more lenses per pixel, which means around 42 billion lenses on a 77 inch 4K screen.” – Scott Wilkinson [05:45]

Scott also touches upon LG's Meta Brightness Boosting software, part of the panel itself, which, along with MLA, purportedly increases brightness by 50% compared to previous models. Despite initial concerns about potential viewing angle issues due to MLA, LG assures improved angles and introduces a new polarizer that significantly reduces reflections.

“It cuts the brightness of reflections roughly in half compared to previous models.” – Scott Wilkinson [09:30]

Introducing the LG G5: Primary RGB Tandem Structure

The conversation shifts to the LG G5, introduced in 2025, which features a groundbreaking Primary RGB Tandem OLED structure. Unlike the G4's WRGB setup, the G5 employs separate layers for red, green, and blue, enhancing color accuracy and brightness without relying on MLA.

“The new primary RGB tandem… doubles the brightness even of the G4. G4 claimed 2000 nits of peak brightness… the G5… 4,000 nits.” – Scott Wilkinson [12:50]

Key advancements in the G5 include:

• Enhanced Color Gamut and Volume: The Primary RGB Tandem structure allows for a more precise color spectrum, offering superior color reproduction.
• Increased Brightness and Efficiency: LG claims the G5 is not only brighter but also 20% more energy-efficient than its predecessor.
• Advanced Anti-Reflection Technology: The G5 boasts a new anti-reflection coating that reduces reflections by up to 99%, making it ideal for rooms with significant ambient light.

“The G5 also has a new anti-reflection technology which is said to reduce reflections by 99%. That's like holy smokes if that's true.” – Scott Wilkinson [18:20]

Price and Performance Comparison

Scott delves into the pricing dynamics between the G4 and G5. While the G5 offers enhanced features and performance, it comes at a higher price point compared to the discounted G4.

• LG G5 (83-inch): $6,500
• LG G4 (83-inch): $5,000

Review ratings further highlight the performance differences:

• LG G5: 8.9/10
• LG G4: 8.6/10

Both models receive commendable scores, but the G5 edges out slightly ahead, primarily due to its advanced technology and performance enhancements.

“Ratings posted their review of the G5. They rate the G5 at an 8.9 overall and they re-rated the G4 at 8.6.” – Scott Wilkinson [21:10]

Addressing the LG G5's HDR10 Issue

A notable drawback mentioned is the LG G5's handling of HDR10 content, where reviewers have observed unusual contouring in dark scenes. Scott expresses optimism that LG will address this issue through firmware updates, citing the company's history of promptly rectifying such problems.

“One problem they found with the G5 was its handling of HDR10 content. They said it had unusual contouring in dark scenes.” – Scott Wilkinson [23:45]

Final Recommendations

Scott offers his guidance to listeners weighing their options:

• Choose the LG G5 if:

  • You have the budget for the higher upfront cost.
  • Your viewing environment has significant ambient light, benefiting from the G5's superior anti-reflection and brightness.
  • You seek the latest in OLED technology with better color accuracy and efficiency.

• Opt for the LG G4 if:

  • You are budget-conscious and the G4 still meets your performance needs.
  • You require a reliable and high-quality display without the need for the latest advancements.

“If you have the budget for it and your current TV is working well enough, I'd probably wait for the G5 at least see if they fix the HDR10 contouring problem.” – Scott Wilkinson [25:30]

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Scott reiterating the strengths of both LG OLED models. While the G5 offers significant advancements, the G4 remains a robust and cost-effective option. Listeners are encouraged to consider their specific needs and budgets when making a decision.

“So if you can wait and you got the money, if you don't need to get a TV right now and you want to wait a little while till the G5 is available, or pre-order it. I'd say go for that, but if you can't G5 G4 is perfectly fine.” – Scott Wilkinson [28:15]

Note: For more detailed reviews and comparisons, listeners are directed to visit the show notes where links to external reviews and additional resources are provided.