OLED (organic light-emitting diode) televisions have become the gold standard for home entertainment thanks to their ability to turn each pixel on and off independently. This creates a level of contrast and image detail beyond what regular LED/LCD TVs can achieve. Rich, inky blacks right alongside vibrant colors.
Within the OLED TV space, LG and Sony have emerged as top-tier manufacturers. Both companies are constantly innovating to make their OLED panels brighter, sharper and packed full of features catering to various audiences like gamers and cinephiles.
The LG C2 and Sony A80K represent mid-range 2022 models from each brand. They come at approachable prices while still delivering superb 4K picture quality powered by the latest image processors.
But which one provides the best bang for your buck? Let‘s find out in this in-depth comparison of the LG C2 vs Sony A80K OLED TVs.
LG C2 vs Sony A80K: At a Glance
| Specs | LG C2 | Sony A80K |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Sizes | 42", 48", 55", 65", 77", 83" | 55", 65", 77" |
| Display Type | OLED Evo | OLED |
| Resolution | 4K (3,840 x 2,160) | 4K (3,840 x 2,160) |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz native | 120Hz native |
| HDR Formats | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG |
| Processor | α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K | Cognitive Processor XR |
| HDMI Ports | 4 (HDMI 2.1) | 2 (HDMI 2.1) |
| Gaming Features | Nvidia G-Sync, AMD FreeSync, Game Optimizer Mode | Auto HDR Tone Mapping, Auto Genre Selection |
| Smart Platform | webOS 22 | Google TV (Android) |
| Voice Assistant | LG ThinQ AI with Alexa & Google Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Panel Depth | ~1.8" | ~2.2" |
| Prices | $999 – $3,999 | $1,299 – $2,899 |
As you can see, besides some minor differences, both OLED TVs match up closely in terms of core specs. But the similarities end there. Once we analyze real-world image quality, smart features, sound and other aspects, a clearer winner begins to emerge as we’ll explore next.
Picture Quality
Since these are TVs we‘re talking about, picture performance reigns supreme. There’s a lot to unpack here across various metrics like brightness, color reproduction, upscaling capability and more.
Brightness
When it comes to brightness, the LG C2 clearly pulls ahead. Its "OLED Evo" panel with deuterium gas can hit around 800 nits when displaying HDR content. This allows the TV to combat glare and render imagery with plenty of specular highlights. It unlocks the full potential of HDR (high dynamic range) video.
In comparison, the regular OLED panel inside the Sony A80K tops out at around 650 nits. Still great, but you may notice differences when viewing HDR content in a sun-drenched living room.
Winner: LG C2
HDR & Dolby Vision
Both TVs cover the major HDR formats – HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision. So you can count on an impactful HDR experience regardless of what content you are streaming or playing.
Sony does have a small advantage with its unique auto HDR tone mapping feature. When enabled, it automatically optimizes HDR output when gaming on a PS5 console connected to non-HDR screens. This prevents crushed blacks and blown out highlights. LG C2 lacks any sort of auto tone mapping.
Speaking of crushed blacks, that‘s an occasional issue plaguing certain Dolby Vision content on LG TVs. Sony‘s always-solid Dolby Vision performance avoids such problems.
Winner: Sony A80K
Color Accuracy
The Sony A80K is simply more color accurate out of the box compared to the LG C2. Backed by Sony‘s precise "Triluminos Pro" display technology, the A80K reproduces a wider color gamut that‘s closer to visual reality.
Winner: Sony A80K
Contrast & Black Levels
This category is too close to call. Both OLED panels deliver perfectly dark blacks and seemingly infinite contrast since pixels activate and deactivate individually. You‘ll be wowed watching dark, atmospheric movies or playing games with shadowy environments on either television.
Winner: Tie
Viewing Angles
OLED screens in general suffer far less than LED/LCD panels when viewed slightly off-center. So the LG C2 and Sony A80K once again end up in a tie here – images remain accurate with minimal color shifting from around 30 degrees off-axis on both models.
Winner: Tie
Upscaling
The proprietary α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K chipset equipping the LG C2 works wonders at upscaling lower-resolution content like DVDs or cable TV to crisp-looking 4K. It intelligently sharpens and cleans up images by recognizing and enhancing object edges in real-time.
Sony‘s Cognitive Processor XR is no slouch either of course. But LG‘s upscaling tech still seems a smidgen more impressive based on side-by-side comparisons.
Winner: LG C2
Gaming Capabilities
Gaming on these OLED TVs proves extremely responsive thanks to fast 120Hz refresh rates, HDMI 2.1 inputs (enabling 4K @ 120Hz) and ultra-low input lag. But LG pulls ahead in the gaming department primarily thanks to unique features that enhance the user experience.
The Game Optimizer mode on the C2 for one centralizes key gaming settings and provides presets tailored for different genres. You also get support for Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium VRR technologies for buttery smooth visuals devoid of screen tearing.
Latency remains equally impressive on both models though – around 5ms across the board when gaming under optimal conditions. And Sony matches LG by supporting the latest HDMI 2.1 gaming features across inputs as well like 4K/120fps and automatic low latency mode.
One advantage held by the A80K lies in Auto HDR Tone Mapping which kicks into action automatically when a Playstation 5 console is connected. So no fiddling with settings to enjoy HDR gaming!
But all in all, LG pulls ahead gaming-wise thanks to deeper settings control and VRR support in the C2. Hardcore gamers who own multiple consoles beyond a PS5 have an easier time unlocking the TV‘s full gaming potential.
Winner: LG C2
Smart Platform & Features
Your preference between webOS and Android TV smart platforms may boil down to personal taste more than anything. But a few pros and cons exist that are worth pointing out.
LG‘s user interface looks slick but offers limited customization compared to Android TV. The home screen layout remains static with no reorganization capability. Yet zippy performance and intuitive controls make webOS easy to live with for most folks.
Meanwhile, Android TV grants users way more customization freedom alongside smarter features lacking on LG sets. For example, personalized profiles, watchlists, Google Cast streaming, built-in Chromecast and the Play Store for installing extra apps.
The Apple-like approach of webOS definitely keeps things simple. But Android TV‘s open ecosystem, abundant apps and AI-enhanced usability keep Sony‘s smart platform feeling more modern. Not to mention, native integration with Google Assistant which supports advanced hands-free voice control.
Winner: Sony A80K
Audio Performance
Neither the LG C2 or Sony A80K will blow away audiophiles with their built-in speakers. Plan on upgrading to a quality sound bar for room-filling, heart-thumping surround sound.
That being said, Sony again has the upper hand audio-wise. The Acoustic Surface technology vibrates the display to emit sound directly from the panel. Along with two subwoofers and XR Surround technology onboard, audio feels more dynamic and enveloping even without a sound bar connected.
LG‘s AI Sound Pro feature attempts to achieve virtual surround effects but can‘t match the expansive, detailed soundstage produced by the A80K. If your TV will pull double duty for both films and music, Sony brings more acoustic energy to the table.
Winner: Sony A80K
Design
Thin bezels and streamlined pedestals give both OLED TVs plenty of visual swagger. As long as you don‘t wall-mount them, differences come down to stand design.
LG opts for a centrally-located stand leaving little surface space underneath for a sound bar. Meanwhile Sony‘s feet assemble into with three configurations – narrow, standard and sound bar friendly (with 4.7" clearance).
So Sony takes the design crown thanks to stands that better accommodate audio upgrades in the future.
Winner: Sony A80K
Verdict: LG C2 vs Sony A80K
When the dust settles, is the LG C2 or Sony A80K the superior mid-range OLED TV?
For gamers, the LG C2 clinches the title. Beefed up gaming features like Game Optimizer mode, FreeSync/G-Sync support and four HDMI 2.1 ports add up to a nirvana of high FPS visuals.
For movie & TV fans, it‘s mostly a toss up. Sony A80K wins on color and audio but the C2 counters with brighter HDR and smoother webOS smart features. Home theater buffs who frequently stream may prefer Android TV‘s added apps and optimization.
For casual viewers who aren‘t particular about gaming or the very best cinema-like picture, the Sony A80K strikes a great balance. Superior smart features and audio sweeten the deal.
In a nutshell:
- LG C2 – Best for gaming
- Sony A80K – Best for streaming & smart features
- Overall winner: Toss up based on user priorities
Yes, both OLED TVs MSRP within a similar $1,000 to $3,000 range. But LG C2 deals are slightly more common giving it a value advantage. For shoppers eyeing 55" or 65” models under $1,500 in particular, C2 delivers remarkable OLED performance that outshines more expensive Sony or Samsung competitors.
So if you want a feature-packed OLED TV suitable for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming plus films and streaming video, the LG C2 fits the bill beautifully without breaking your budget.
