LG‘s C2 and CX OLED TVs represent the pinnacle of home entertainment technology. With their perfect black levels, vibrant colors, infinite contrast andpixel-level dimming, these displays continue LG‘s legacy of outstanding 4K performance.
But with a two-year gap between their releases, should you consider saving money by opting for 2020‘s CX instead of the latest 2022 C2 model? Or do the updates and enhancements make the C2 the wiser purchase despite the higher price?
This extensive head-to-head guide will analyze every aspect of these flagship televisions to reveal whether the C2 justifies its cost. After examining their designs, display quality, audio, smart platforms, gaming chops and more, you‘ll have all the details to determine which LG OLED is right for your viewing needs.
Design and Build Quality
LG has always prioritized slim, elegant designs for its premium TVs rather than bulky enclosures. This emphasis continues with both the C2 and CX OLEDs — from any angle, these displays are marvels of modern engineering.
Dimensions
- CX 65": 57" x 32.7" x 1.8" without stand
- C2 65": 56.7" x 32.5" x 1.8" without stand
As you can see, the chassis dimensions are nearly identical. Both TVs feature LG‘s slim wallpaper-style profile with razor thin bezels, allowing the gorgeous OLED panel to take center stage.
Weight
- CX 65": 52.9 lbs without stand, 71.9 lbs with stand
- C2 65": 36.6 lbs without stand, 40.8 lbs with stand
However, there is a noticeable difference in heft. The lighter C2 sheds over 12 lbs from the CX‘s weight, making it easier to mount and posing less strain on your wall over time.
Stands
The C2 also gains an updated stand design. Taller and narrower than the CX‘s, it provides greater space to position a soundbar without blocking the display‘s lower edge.
So while both deliver iconic LG style, the C2 takes the lead with its reduced weight and improved stand.
Display Performance
As flagship OLED TVs, both the CX and C2 produce world-class picture quality matched by few competitors. But LG didn‘t stand pat on a winning formula — the C2 introduces a major display innovation.
OLED Evo Panel
The C2 features LG‘s new OLED Evo technology, boosting brightness by up to 20% compared to standard OLED panels. An extra emission layer and better heat dissipation allow for higher peak brightness, resulting in enhanced HDR pop and sparkling highlight details.
Image Processing
This performance also gets a boost from the C2‘s upgraded α9 Gen 5 AI Processor 4K. Leveraging enhanced deep learning algorithms, it handles contrast, color and clarity adjustments more seamlessly.
Clarity and Brightness
Between its OLED Evo panel and latest processor, the C2 delivers superior sharpness, better brightness in high APL scenes and excellence in near-black shadow areas. This makes it the superior choice for very bright viewing environments.
That said, the CX is no slouch — it produces outstanding 4K images that set standards for black levels, color accuracy and motion clarity. The C2 simply builds on this formula with welcome improvements.
Audio Quality
With sound lagging behind rapid display advancements, most discerning viewers pair their OLED TV with an external audio solution. But how do the built-in speakers compare?
Speaker Systems
- CX: 40-watt 2.2 channel system with AI Sound Pro
- C2: 40-watt 2.2 channel system with AI Sound Pro
On paper, the audio hardware seems identical. And indeed, you can expect very similar sonic performance. Dialogue and sound effects come through cleanly at moderate volumes. The wide soundstage creates an enveloping ambiance.
Dolby Atmos
Thankfully, both TVs support Dolby Atmos playback through their HDMI eARC port. So if you add an Atmos-capable soundbar or speaker system, you‘ll enjoy room-filling 3D audio with pinpoint directional cues placed and moving through space.
While the C2‘s audio holds no clear advantage, its thinner frame and higher stand help with soundbar placement.
Smart Platform
Streaming and smart integration play an ever-increasing role in modern television usage. LG‘s webOS platform aims to satisfy this demand through its slick interface and abundant app selection.
Both CX and C2 models run webOS, but they leverage different versions:
webOS Versions
- CX: webOS 5.0
- C2: webOS 22
The newer webOS 22 features some subtle but useful enhancements. For example, separate profiles allow users to easily switch between customized setups for gaming and movie watching. Users can also move apps around more freely based on personal preference instead of LG‘s prescribed layouts.
App Support
Both webOS editions provide access to all major streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max and YouTube. Support for Apple content via AirPlay 2 and HomeKit is included as well.
Gamers will also appreciate cloud gaming integration for Google Stadia and GeForce Now through the dedicated Game Optimizer portal.
For the most seamless smart TV experience though, webOS 22 nudges the C2 ahead. And going forward, it likely guarantees an extra year or two of long-term support compared to the CX‘s older platform base.
Connectivity
With so many 4K sources and display inputs to juggle, connectivity plays a huge role in setup satisfaction and flexibility. Both OLED contenders come well equipped to accommodate various equipment hookups.
Ports
- CX: 4x HDMI 2.1, 3x USB 2.0, RF, Ethernet, Composite, Optical Digital Audio
- C2: 4x HDMI 2.1, 1x HDMI 2.0, 3x USB 2.0, RF, Ethernet
As we can see, port selection is very comparable, with four future-facing HDMI 2.1 inputs checking the right compatibility boxes for gaming consoles and high-performance video sources.
The CX interestingly adds legacy composite inputs which the C2 omits. But with the aging composite format on its way out, most buyers will gain more practical value from the C2‘s extra available USB 2.0 port.
Wireless Connectivity
Both TVs cover the essential wireless bases with built-in Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 support. The CX also included older Bluetooth 4.2, while the C2 upgrades to Bluetooth 5.1 for minor speed and latency advantages.
Gaming Performance
Console and PC gaming on OLED TVs represent a match made in heaven, with LG‘s C-Series models consistently topping best gaming TV lists. Let‘s see how the CX and C2 compare when it comes to gaming metrics.
Refresh Rate
- CX and C2: Up to 120Hz native refresh rate
The 120Hz maximum yields silky smooth rendering that takes full advantage of the PS5, Xbox Series X and high-frame-rate PC games. Fast response times minimize distracting motion blur as the action heats up.
Variable Refresh Rate
Both TVs support variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM) over HDMI. With VRR, games dynamically sync rendered frames with the display for tear-free images as frame rates fluctuate. ALLM automatically enables low latency presets when detecting a game.
Latency
The C2‘s newer processor facilitates a lower input lag rating, with lag measuring an astonishingly low 5ms across all HDMI ports in game mode. The CX still provides extremely competitive 13ms lag times that all but eliminate perceptible delay.
For hardcore competitive gamers, the C2‘s leading input latency provides the ultimate responsive edge. But both OLEDs remain shone as ideal gaming displays.
Pricing and Size Options
As flagship models occupying the top rung of LG‘s TV lineup, neither the C2 nor CX qualify as budget purchases. However, excellent holiday discounts are bringing these OLEDs within reach for a growing segment of home theater shoppers.
Price Range
- CX 48": $799 (MSRP $1499)
- C2 42": $896 (MSRP $1399)
The CX currently sees wider availability and bigger markdowns from its original MSRP. As LG‘s 2020 model, retailers are motivated to clear remaining CX inventory.
If paying full price, the C2 demands a significant premium. But real-world deals even out the score. Considering the C2‘s superior brightness and gaming chops, its value proposition strengthens.
Prospective buyers can choose from four sizes for the CX ranging from 48 to 77 inches. The C2 adds a new compact 42-inch model while maxing out at 83 inches. With abundant size overlap, both should accommodate any room layout.
The Verdict: LG C2 Wins as the Best Performing OLED
For shoppers debating between the LG C1 and CX, the decision ultimately comes down to performance needs versus budget restraints.
The CX remains an outstanding OLED television that‘s still selling for an attractive price given its impressive capabilities. Gamers and movie lovers will struggle to be disappointed.
However, as LG‘s latest generation OLED, the C2 earns its flagship reputation. The noticeable boosts in brightness, smoothness and responsiveness leave little doubt regarding its superiority:
- OLED Evo panel enables better HDR and SDR brightness
- Upgraded processor ensures smoother, sharper images
- Game Optimizer menu streamlines gaming customization
- Brighter highlights and detailed shadows stand out in HDR content
- Quicker response delivers extremely low input lag for fast-paced console/PC games
- New stand design offers greater clearance for adding a soundbar
Considering how closely it matches and even surpasses its predecessor, the LG C2 proves its worth against the CX with meaningful improvements across the board. If purchasing today without price constraints, the C2 represents the more future-proof investment.
LG may intend for the C2 to tempt existing CX owners into upgrading. For new buyers deciding between them though, it makes recommending the CX difficult. The C2 simply outclasses it as 2022‘s best LG television.