LG G5 vs LG G4 OLED TVs: Which One Should You Buy in 2025?

LG’s G-series OLED televisions have long been among the best in the market, combining cutting-edge display technology with sleek design. In 2024, the LG G4 earned widespread praise—and a five-star rating—for its exceptional performance. Now, the new LG G5 OLED TV arrives with meaningful upgrades, including advanced screen technology, higher brightness, and an expanded size range, including a new, more accessible 48-inch option.

So, how much better is the G5? Is it worth the upgrade, or does the discounted G4 still offer the better value in 2025? Here’s a deep dive comparing the LG G5 and LG G4 OLEDs across design, features, image quality, sound, and pricing to help you decide which model suits your needs best.

Design & Build Quality

LG hasn’t strayed far from its winning formula when it comes to design. The G5 maintains the same Gallery Series aesthetic as the G4—an ultra-thin, wall-hugging frame that mimics a piece of art. Both TVs support wall mounting by default, but LG continues to offer optional tabletop stands for the 55- and 65-inch models.

The G5 adds a new 48-inch screen size for the first time in the G-series lineup, making it more suitable for smaller rooms. However, buyers should note that both the 48- and massive 97-inch G5 variants use a different OLED panel and do not benefit from the key upgrades found in the mid-size models.

The G5’s remote has also been slightly updated with a new AI quick-access button and a general device hub control. However, premium touches like backlit keys are still missing—an unfortunate omission at this price point.

In terms of looks, not much has changed between the LG G4 and the LG G5.

Features & Smart Platform

Both the G4 and G5 are packed with features, but the G5 takes things a step further. The biggest leap lies in its panel technology. The G4 uses LG’s second-generation MLA (Micro Lens Array) panel, which was a substantial brightness improvement over older OLEDs. The G5, however, introduces RGB Tandem OLED technology—delivering a massive 40% boost in full-screen brightness and even more color vibrancy in highlights.

This new technology, dubbed Brightness Booster Max, is exclusive to the 55–83-inch G5 models. The smaller 48-inch and larger 97-inch G5s don’t use this premium panel, so brightness performance on those sizes is closer to the G4.

The G5 also features the upgraded Alpha 11 Gen 2 processor. It builds on the excellent performance of the G4’s Alpha 11 chip with improved AI picture and sound optimization. LG has even added an integrated AI chatbot using large language models to help users troubleshoot problems or adjust settings conversationally.

Both TVs run on LG’s excellent webOS smart platform, with the G5 sporting webOS 25 versus webOS 24 on the G4. App support remains top-tier across both, with access to Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV, and more. Minor UI improvements have been made, though ads remain an annoyance.

Performance: Picture Quality

G5: A Generational Leap

LG OLED G5

Having reviewed both models, we can confidently say the G5 delivers a visual experience that feels like a genuine step forward. Its RGB Tandem OLED panel produces exceptional full-screen brightness—ideal for well-lit rooms—and stunning contrast in HDR content. Highlights pop with new intensity, colors are noticeably richer, and skin tones appear more lifelike and nuanced.

Motion handling, an area where LG has traditionally excelled, remains superb. The Cinematic Movement mode continues to smooth out 24fps content without introducing the soap opera effect or unwanted artifacts. AI upscaling is also impressive, preserving sharpness and clarity in HD and even SD content.

G4: Still Exceptional

LG OLED G4

That said, the G4 is no slouch. Its MLA panel delivers excellent brightness and contrast, especially in smaller highlight areas. It also handles motion with finesse, thanks to the same Cinematic Movement feature, and the Alpha 11 chip enhances color depth and image dimensionality. Low-light scenes are beautifully rendered, and HDR performance holds up well even under challenging conditions.

One previous G5 issue with Dolby Vision streaming—elevated black levels and artifacts in dark scenes—was quickly addressed with a firmware update, ensuring the G5 now performs flawlessly across all formats.

Sound Quality: Still the Weak Link

Despite advances in display technology, both the G4 and G5 continue to underwhelm in audio performance.

The G5 features a 60W 4.2-channel setup with Dolby Atmos, but the results are only passable. While the Cinema sound preset improves clarity and dynamic range, bass remains thin, and dialogue often lacks emotional impact. High-volume or complex audio scenes expose the limitations of the built-in system.

The G4 performs similarly, though its AI Sound Pro mode helps slightly by enhancing dialogue directionality and tonal balance. Even so, neither TV can match the visual brilliance with equally compelling audio. For the best experience, pairing either model with a quality soundbar is highly recommended.

Gaming Features

Gamers will find both TVs extremely capable, thanks to full support for HDMI 2.1 (all four ports), 4K at 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and G-Sync/FreeSync compatibility. However, the G5 goes further by offering 4K at 165Hz—albeit only on the 55–83-inch sizes. This makes it one of the fastest OLED TVs on the market, though only high-end PC setups can fully exploit this feature.

Price & Value

Here’s a breakdown of launch pricing for both models:

At launch, G5 pricing is largely in line with G4 launch prices. However, now that the G4 has been on the market for over a year, it’s widely discounted—sometimes significantly. If you’re budget-conscious and not interested in the absolute latest tech, the G4 offers fantastic value.

Final Verdict: LG G5 vs LG G4

Buy the LG G5 if:

• You want the very best OLED TV currently available.

• Brightness and HDR impact are top priorities.

• You plan to game at refresh rates beyond 120Hz.

• You’re buying the 55–83-inch sizes (the only ones with the best panel tech).

• You’re willing to pay more for early access to the latest advancements.

Buy the LG G4 if:

• You want a premium OLED experience at a discounted price.

• You’re less concerned with maximum brightness or cutting-edge tech.

• You can find it at a significantly reduced cost (which is likely in 2025).

Bottom Line

The LG G5 is a clear step forward in OLED TV technology. Its new RGB Tandem OLED panel delivers industry-leading brightness, color volume, and contrast, placing it at the top of the 2025 TV hierarchy. While the G4 remains an excellent television and a compelling choice due to its now-lower price, the G5 earns the crown for those who want the best of the best.

If you can afford it—or wait for discounts later this year—the LG G5 is the OLED TV to beat in 2025.