When it comes to high-end TVs in 2024, two models are generating the most buzz: the Samsung 65" QN90D Neo QLED ($2,498) and the LG 65" G4 OLED evo ($2,600). Both released in March 2024, these TVs represent the latest in display technology, but they take quite different approaches to delivering that perfect picture.
The 65-inch size has become the sweet spot for many homes, offering an immersive experience without overwhelming most living rooms. It's large enough to appreciate 4K resolution from normal viewing distances (about 8-10 feet back), yet still manageable for wall mounting or furniture placement.
What's changed in recent years is how these premium TVs achieve their stunning pictures. We've moved beyond simple LED vs. OLED debates into more nuanced territory, with each technology making significant advances.
The Samsung QN90D uses Mini-LED technology (which Samsung brands as "Neo QLED"). Think of it as thousands of tiny LED lights behind the screen, each precisely controlled to create bright highlights and dark shadows. This year's model features even smaller LEDs and more precise control zones than last year's QN90C.
The LG G4 OLED evo takes a different approach. Each pixel creates its own light, which means perfect blacks (because pixels can completely turn off) and infinite contrast. The "evo" panel is LG's latest advancement, addressing OLED's historical brightness limitations.
In my experience testing both TVs, these differences matter most in two scenarios:
Both TVs are gaming powerhouses, supporting all the latest features:
The G4 has a slight edge in response time and input lag, making it the better choice for competitive gaming. However, the QN90D's higher brightness might be preferable for daytime gaming sessions.
For dedicated home theater use, there are several factors to consider:
The LG G4 has the advantage here, particularly in a controlled lighting environment. The perfect blacks and infinite contrast ratio create a more cinema-like experience. Having tested both in my home theater, the difference is most noticeable in letterboxed movies, where the black bars truly disappear on the OLED.
Both TVs handle HDR content beautifully, but differently:
While both TVs have improved sound systems compared to their predecessors, you'll still want a separate sound system for a true home theater experience. Both support eARC for easy connection to modern AV receivers or soundbars.
The Samsung QN90D offers slightly better value if:
The LG G4 justifies its higher price if:
Consider these key questions:
In my experience testing dozens of TVs, I'd suggest:
For a bright living room: Go with the Samsung QN90D. Its anti-reflective coating and high brightness make it more versatile for varied lighting conditions.
For a dedicated home theater or primarily night-time viewing: Choose the LG G4. The perfect blacks and superior contrast create an unmatched movie-watching experience.
For a mixed-use space: Consider your primary viewing habits. If you watch more than 50% of your content during bright daylight hours, lean toward the Samsung. If you're more of an evening viewer, the LG will give you the better experience.
Both TVs represent significant improvements over their 2023 predecessors, with better processing, improved brightness, and more refined gaming features. You really can't go wrong with either choice - it's more about matching the TV to your specific needs and environment than finding an absolute "best" option.
Remember, these are both premium TVs that will deliver excellent picture quality. The key is choosing the one that best matches your viewing environment and habits.
| Samsung 65" QN90D Neo QLED ($2,498) | LG 65" G4 OLED evo ($2,600) |
|---|---|
| Display Technology - Fundamentally affects image quality, brightness, and viewing conditions | |
| Neo QLED (Mini-LED backlit LCD) | OLED (self-emitting pixels) |
| Peak Brightness - Critical for HDR impact and bright room viewing | |
| 2,000+ nits (excellent for bright rooms) | 1,000+ nits (good for moderate lighting) |
| Black Levels - Determines contrast and dark scene quality | |
| Very good (local dimming zones) | Perfect (pixels turn completely off) |
| Gaming Features - Impacts responsiveness and smoothness | |
| 4K/120Hz, VRR, 4ms input lag | 4K/120Hz, VRR, 1.5ms input lag |
| Processing - Affects upscaling and motion handling | |
| NQ4 AI Gen2 (new for 2024) | Alpha 11 (70% faster than 2023) |
| HDR Support - Determines compatibility with different HDR content | |
| HDR10+, HLG (no Dolby Vision) | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG |
| Viewing Angles - Important for wide seating arrangements | |
| Good (Ultra Viewing Angle layer) | Excellent (inherent to OLED) |
| Burn-in Risk - Consider for static content or news tickers | |
| None | Very low (with protective features) |
| Power Consumption - Impacts energy bills | |
| Higher (83W typical) | Lower (60W typical) |
For dedicated home theater use, the LG G4 OLED evo is superior due to its perfect black levels and infinite contrast ratio. However, if your theater has ambient light, the Samsung QN90D might be a better choice.
OLED technology, found in the LG G4, typically provides a better movie-watching experience due to superior contrast and perfect blacks. The Samsung QN90D QLED performs better in bright rooms but can't match OLED's black levels.
Both TVs offer excellent gaming features, but the LG G4 has a slight edge with lower input lag (1.5ms vs 4ms) and better motion handling compared to the Samsung QN90D.
The Samsung QN90D performs better in bright rooms with its higher peak brightness and anti-reflective coating. The LG G4, while still good, is better suited for controlled lighting conditions.
The $100 price difference between the Samsung QN90D ($2,498) and LG G4 ($2,600) is minimal at this price point. The choice should be based on your viewing environment rather than price.
The LG G4 has slightly better built-in audio with its 4.2 channel system compared to the Samsung QN90D's 2.2 channels. However, both should be paired with a separate sound system for home theater use.
The LG G4 supports Dolby Vision, while the Samsung QN90D uses HDR10+ instead. This matters if you watch a lot of Netflix or Apple TV+ content, which primarily use Dolby Vision.
Both TVs are well-built, but the Samsung QN90D has no risk of burn-in. While burn-in risk is low on modern OLEDs like the LG G4, it's still possible with static images displayed for extended periods.
The Samsung QN90D performs better for sports due to its higher brightness and excellent motion handling, especially during daytime viewing. The LG G4 still performs well but may appear dimmer in bright rooms.
Both the Samsung QN90D and LG G4 can be wall-mounted using standard VESA mounts. The G4 is specifically designed for wall mounting with its super-slim gallery design.
Both offer comprehensive smart platforms - the Samsung QN90D uses Tizen while the LG G4 uses webOS. Both support major streaming services and voice assistants, though their interfaces differ slightly.
For optimal performance with next-gen gaming consoles or 4K/120Hz content, both the Samsung QN90D and LG G4 require HDMI 2.1 cables, which may need to be purchased separately if you're using older cables.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: samsung.com - standardtvandappliance.com - gerhardsappliance.com - bestbuy.com - image-us.samsung.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - images.samsung.com - tomsguide.com - crutchfield.com - visions.ca - youtube.com - cnet.com - schaeferstv.com - rtings.com - costco.com - bhphotovideo.com - techradar.com - youtube.com - abcwarehouse.com - youtube.com
