Oh how far we have come from the days of big box TVs and CRTs that took up so much room against a wall in your room! Today, with flat-panel TVs and slim bezels, TVs look very different, and that couldn’t be more true for models like the Samsung Frame TV and the LG Gallery televisions. What helps differentiate these models from the rest of the “black” boxes that can hang on your wall today is that they offer dual functionality. Instead of “just” being a television, Samsung’s “The Frame” and LG’s Gallery lineup can each turn into a work of art when not in use. In other words, instead of just being “off” as a traditional television would be when not in use, these models have an always-on display that showcases artwork or, in Samsung’s case, photos of your choosing.
So, which one of these two television lineups is the right one for you? Let’s take a look and help answer that question.
5 Key Facts About the Samsung Frame TV and LG Gallery
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The Samsung Frame is a single TV model, while LG offers the LG G1, G2, and previously GX Gallery TVs.
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Samsung offers The Frame in sizes from 43 to 85 inches, while LG Gallery is only available in 55, 65 and 77 inches.
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Samsung uses the Tizen smart TV platform, while LG uses webOS. Both include voice assistants.
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Only Samsung offers an anti-glare matte display to reduce screen reflections.
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Samsung uses QLED display tech, while LG uses OLED and “OLED Evo” for the Gallery series.
Detailed Side-by-Side Comparison
| Specs | Samsung The Frame | LG Gallery Series |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Sizes | 43", 50", 55", 65", 75", 85" | 55", 65", 77" |
| Display Type | QLED | OLED Evo |
| Resolution | 4K | 4K |
| Matte Screen? | Yes | No |
| Smart Platform | Tizen OS | webOS |
| Voice Control | Google/Alexa | Google/Alexa |
| Inputs | 4 HDMI, 2 USB | 4 HDMI, 3 USB |
| VRR Support? | Yes | Yes |
| Price Range | $599-$4299 | $1399+ (55") |
Key Differences Between the Samsung Frame and LG Gallery
There are a few notable differences between these TVs that are important to consider when deciding between the two:
Availability and Screen Size Options
The Samsung Frame comes in a much wider range of sizes, from compact 43-inch models up to massive 85-inch screens. LG‘s Gallery series is only available in 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes. So Samsung provides a lot more flexibility to find a size that fits your room.
The Frame is also a single model of TV called "The Frame." LG has the Gallery series technology across the G1, G2 and now discontinued GX models. So it‘s easier to just shop for "The Frame" rather than figuring out LG‘s model numbers.
Display Technology
The Samsung Frame uses QLED display technology, while the LG G1 and G2 Gallery models use LG‘s latest OLED Evo panels.
In terms of picture quality:
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OLED generally beats QLED when it comes to contrast, viewing angles and response times. individual OLED pixels emit their own light, allowing for truly black blacks.
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However, QLED panels like Samsung‘s are brighter overall, making them better for well-lit rooms. Samsung also added a new anti-glare matte layer to reduce screen reflections.
So it‘s largely user preference – OLED looks best in darker home theater rooms, while QLED is ideal for living rooms or where you can‘t control the lighting.
Smart TV Operating Systems
Samsung uses their Tizen software platform, while LG TVs run on webOS.
Both provide access to all the popular streaming apps like Netflix and Disney+, along with smart home integrations and voice assistants. Tizen gives a bit more customization over the home screen layout compared to webOS. But the latest webOS updates brought welcome improvements to LG‘s platform.
LG‘s "Magic Remote" also stands out – it works like a Nintendo Wii controller, letting you simply point at menu options instead of remembering button presses.
Art Mode & Customization
The main appeal of these TVs is the ability to display artwork or photography when not being used as a traditional television.
Samsung‘s Art Mode lets you choose from different frame color options to match your room decor. You can upload your own photos or art via USB to display alongside Samsung‘s collection of artwork. Overall, it provides more personalization than LG.
LG‘s Gallery Mode offers a set selection of artwork genres and photos. But you‘re limited to what LG includes out of the box – there‘s no option for adding your own images.
So Samsung Frame wins out on letting you customize both the frame/bezel design and artwork selections displayed.
Which is the Better Value: Samsung Frame or LG Gallery?
When it comes to value for money, here is how the Samsung Frame and LG Gallery models compare:
Samsung The Frame
Pros
- More screen size and bezel options
- Upload your own photos for Art Mode
- Anti-glare matte display
- Quantum dot QLED picture
- Typically cheaper than LG Gallery
Cons
- QLED contrast and black levels can‘t match OLED
- Tizen OS less intuitive than webOS
Who it‘s best for: Buyers who want deeper customization of “Art Mode" and a wider range of sizes and prices to choose from. The matte display makes The Frame a better choice for well-lit rooms.
LG G1/G2 Gallery Edition
Pros
- Superior OLED Evo picture quality
- AI auto-optimizes picture/sound
- Flush wall mount design
- Magic Remote pointer
Cons
- Limited screen sizes (55, 65, 77 inches)
- Higher prices than The Frame
- No option for custom “Art Mode" images
Who it‘s best for: Home theater enthusiasts who want the best-in-class picture quality from LG’s latest OLED Evo panels and advanced AI processing.
FAQ
Can you add your own photos to the Samsung Frame or LG Gallery?
Samsung Frame allows you to display your own images via USB. LG Gallery is limited to the default art gallery selections included.
Which is better for picture quality?
LG Gallery TVs use OLED Evo panels which deliver better contrast and black levels compared to Samsung QLED tech. But QLED matches or beats OLED in terms of brightness.
What about response times and gaming performance?
The LG G1 and G2 offer outstanding gaming performance with 4 HDMI 2.1 ports, low input lag, and fast response times. Casual gamers would likely be very satisfied with either LG or Samsung though.
Which TV model costs more?
The LG Gallery televisions are sold at a premium price point given the high-end OLED Evo technology inside. Samsung Frame models can be purchased for well below $1000 even for 65-inch and larger sizes.
In summary, the Samsung Frame provides a better overall value, but LG Gallery models deliver a superior viewing experience for buyers focused strictly on picture quality. Evaluate your needs to decide which technology is the better fit.
