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Those prices and preorder benefits are historical, not current offers. By September 2026, the G5 and C5 are previous-generation models, so shoppers should compare today’s pricing with discounted G4/C4 sets and LG’s newer C6/G6 generation.
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Quick verdict
- Choose the G5 for a brighter-room installation, wall-mounted gallery design, stronger HDR ambitions, or high-end PC gaming that can use refresh rates above 144Hz.
- Choose the C5 for lower cost, 42- or 48-inch options, living-room viewing, movies, streaming, sports, and console gaming.
- Do not buy either model solely for the 165Hz headline. It is primarily useful to PC gamers with suitably powerful hardware, not films, broadcast television, or ordinary console play.
LG announced the U.S. rollout and pricing on March 11, 2025, following the lineup’s CES introduction on January 5. Retail availability was planned for March 2025. LG also announced the wireless M5 OLED line at CES, but the G5 and C5 were the models covered by the U.S. pricing announcement. LG’s launch announcement said additional 2025 OLED models would be announced separately.
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Every figure below is the original U.S. launch MSRP. It should not be confused with a live September 2026 selling price.
#1 Best Overall
- ADVANCED PROCESSING POWERS AI-ENHANCED** 4K CLARITY: Uses AI with the power of 20 neural networks to enhance picture quality of your content to 4K and optimizes sound for superb performance in everything you watch.
- BOOSTS YOUR FAVORITE CONTENT TO CAPTIVATING 4K RESOLUTION**: Watch your shows and videos in stunning detail. Our AI processor upscales your content to up to 4K using 20 AI neural networks and ensures sharp and smooth picture quality.*
- DYNAMIC BRIGHTNESS AND CONTRASTS: Reveal hidden details with bold brights and inky blacks in each scene. The NQ4 AI Gen2 processor analyzes each scene* to improve brightness for a more dynamic picture.
- EXPERT-VALIDATED COLOR AND SKIN TONES FOR A REALISTIC PICTURE: With color validated by the experts at Pantone, you can be sure colors look realistic and skin tones accurately shown, for a vibrant and true-to-life picture.
- DESIGN THAT EMBODIES SOPHISTICATION: Made to look bold, yet elegant design that evokes gentle waves. Smooth lines and flowing design come together to harmoniously blend into your home.
LG OLED evo G5
| Size | Model | Launch MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 55-inch | OLED55G5WUA | $2,499 |
| 65-inch | OLED65G5WUA | $3,399 |
| 77-inch | OLED77G5WUA | $4,499 |
| 83-inch | OLED83G5WUA | $6,499 |
| 97-inch | OLED97G5WUA | $24,999 |
LG OLED evo C5
| Size | Model | Launch MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 42-inch | OLED42C5PUA | $1,399 |
| 48-inch | OLED48C5PUA | $1,599 |
| 55-inch | OLED55C5PUA | $1,999 |
| 65-inch | OLED65C5PUA | $2,699 |
| 77-inch | OLED77C5PUA | $3,699 |
| 83-inch | OLED83C5PUA | $5,399 |
The important pricing detail is that the C5’s $1,399 starting price applied to the 42-inch C5. It was not the price of the 55-inch or 65-inch version. For a fair comparison, compare matching sizes: 55-inch G5 versus 55-inch C5, or 65-inch G5 versus 65-inch C5.
Because television pricing changes quickly, check LG’s current OLED category and authorized retailers for live prices. Promotional discounts may make a current C5, G5, G4, or C4 a better value than the original MSRP suggests.
G5 versus C5: what changes?
| Feature | G5 | C5 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen2 | Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen8 |
| Maximum stated refresh rate | 4K/165Hz VRR | 4K/144Hz |
| Sizes | 55, 65, 77, 83, 97 inches | 42, 48, 55, 65, 77, 83 inches |
| Brightness system | Brightness Booster Ultimate | Brightness Booster |
| Warranty claim in launch material | Five-year panel warranty | Check the applicable C5 warranty |
| Dolby Vision and Atmos | Yes | Yes |
Why pay more for the G5?
The G5 was LG’s premium 2025 OLED evo model. LG claimed its brightness was 45% higher than the previous-generation G4, but that is a manufacturer comparison—not an independently measured brightness result. The set also used Brightness Booster Ultimate, the Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen2, and a gallery-oriented design intended for wall mounting. LG’s product listings show supplied wall-mount positioning, so installation may be a more significant part of the total cost than it is with a conventional television.
The G5 also added 4K/165Hz variable refresh rate, with support listed for NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium. Its five-year panel warranty claim may be valuable, but it should not be interpreted as five years of complete coverage for every component, labor, accessory, accidental-damage, or burn-in scenario. Read the applicable warranty document and exclusions before relying on it.
Rank #2
- BRIGHTNESS BOOSTER: Brighter visuals and vivid detail with Brightness Booster powered by the a11 AI Processor Gen 3
- PERFECT BLACK AND PERFECT COLOR: Over 8.3 million self-lit smart pixels with Perfect Black and Perfect Color technology¹.
- A11 AI PROCESSOR: Find and choose what to watch fast, without lag, and enjoy optimized picture with AI Director Processing powered by the LG a9 AI Processor Gen8, delivering 5.6x greater AI processing, 50% faster performance, and 70% improved graphics
- DOLBY VISION, DOLBY ATMOS AND FILMMAKER MODE: Loaded with Dolby Vision for extraordinary color, contrast and brightness, plus Dolby Atmos² for sound you can feel all around you. Land in the center of the action with FILMMAKER MODE with Ambient Light Technology, allowing you to see films just as the director intended.
- ULTIMATE GAMEPLAY: Delivers smooth, responsive gaming with a 0.1ms response time, up to 165Hz⁵ refresh rate, NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium and VRR.
Why choose the C5?
The C5 retained the core OLED strengths—self-lit pixels, deep blacks, high contrast, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, VRR, and high refresh rates—while reducing the entry price. Its 42- and 48-inch sizes make it practical for bedrooms, smaller rooms, desks, and compact gaming spaces where no G5 is available.
The C5 supports up to 4K/144Hz and uses the Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen8. For most streaming, movie, sports, and console users, the difference between 144Hz and 165Hz will matter less than room brightness, screen size, viewing distance, current sale price, and installation requirements. The C5 is a premium OLED, not a low-end alternative.
What 165Hz means in practice
A 165Hz television can refresh the image up to 165 times per second when the source, connection, settings, and content support that mode. On the G5, the feature is specified as 4K/165Hz with VRR, which can make PC games feel smoother and more responsive when the computer is producing frame rates above 120 frames per second.
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- A gaming PC and graphics card capable of rendering the game at high frame rates at 4K.
- A suitable high-bandwidth HDMI connection and cable.
- Correct Windows, graphics-driver, and television output settings.
- A game that can actually exceed 120fps under the selected resolution and quality settings.
- VRR configured correctly if the goal is to reduce tearing and uneven motion.
The number does not make movies, broadcast television, or ordinary console games run at 165 frames per second. Console buyers should focus on 4K/120Hz support, VRR, HDMI capabilities, input response, and game-mode behavior. A console generally cannot exploit the G5’s full 165Hz capability merely because the television supports it.
Rank #3
- OLED HDR+ WITH GLARE FREE*: Experience incredible brightness and deep contrast. Advanced AI enhances details, while Glare Free technology eliminates distracting reflections.*
- NQ4 AI GEN3 PROCESSOR: Powered by 128 neural networks to deliver AI-enhanced picture and sound, resulting in an exceptional 4K experience for streaming, gaming, live sports and more.*
- ULTIMATE GAMING PACK*: Conquer the competition with ultra-smooth, tear-free, low-latency gameplay and real-time responsiveness. Unlock the ultimate gaming experience with the powerful combination of Motion Xcelerator 165Hz with NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.*
- 4K AI UPSCALING PRO: See impressive details on screen. Our AI processor upscales everything you watch to 4K using 128 AI neural networks and ensures incredibly sharp and smooth picture quality.*
- AI MOTION ENHANCER PRO: The AI processor smooths the motion of fast-moving balls and text, reducing blur and flickering, so you don't lose sight of the action.*
LG’s G5 product page and C5 product page distinguish the models’ stated refresh-rate capabilities.
What the preorder promotion included
LG’s launch promotion applied to qualifying purchases made from March 10 through March 30, 2025. It was not a permanent G5 feature and is not a current September 2026 offer.
- Free wall mounting or stand setup through Handy on select qualifying 2025 OLED televisions, with a stated maximum wall-mounting value of $164.99.
- Up to $200 off select LG soundbars.
The installation service had to be added to the original television order and was applied in the cart when requirements were met. LG’s terms said the benefit could be voided if qualifying items were removed, returned, or canceled. Service availability was subject to promotional and geographic limitations. Current installation terms can be reviewed at Handy’s terms page, but those terms do not revive LG’s expired preorder offer.
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Buy the G5 if:
- Your room receives substantial daylight and you want the G5’s higher-end brightness system.
- You want a wall-mounted, gallery-style installation.
- You have a high-end PC capable of using 4K frame rates above 144fps.
- You value LG’s stated five-year panel warranty after checking its exact terms.
- You want the premium 2025 LG OLED and are comfortable paying for it.
Buy the C5 if:
- You want the lowest-cost entry into this 2025 OLED evo range.
- You need a 42- or 48-inch screen.
- Your main activities are streaming, films, sports, or console gaming.
- You would rather spend the G5 premium on a soundbar, receiver, gaming PC, larger screen, or professional installation.
- You find the C5 at a substantial discount from its launch MSRP.
Consider a previous-generation OLED if:
A discounted G4 or C4 provides the features you need at a meaningfully lower price. The G5’s 165Hz mode is not essential for most buyers, and the newer model’s advantages should be weighed against clearance pricing. Since the C6 and G6 generation has also been announced by 2026, compare those models as well rather than treating the G5 and C5 as LG’s newest televisions.
Rank #4
- OUR MOST ADVANCED 4K AI PROCESSOR: Powered by 128 neural networks to deliver AI-enhanced picture and optimized sound, resulting in an exceptional 4K experience for streaming, gaming, live sports and more.*
- TRANSFORMS EVERYTHING ON SCREEN TO IMPRESSIVE 4K RESOLUTION*: See impressive details on screen. Our AI processor upscales everything you watch to 4K using 128 AI neural networks and ensures incredibly sharp and smooth picture quality.*
- POWERFUL BRIGHTNESS AND DEEPER CONTRAST IN EVERY PIXEL**:Experience powerful brightness and deeper contrast revealing nuanced detail in each scene. The NQ4 AI Gen3 processor analyzes each scene and boost brightness to illuminate even the smallest details.**
- BRINGS SMOOTH MOTION TO SPORTS AND TEAR-FREE GAMING: Experience smooth visuals and elite speeds for VRR gaming at up to 4K 144Hz.***
- KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL: The AI processor smooths the motion of fast-moving balls and text, reducing blur and flickering, so you don't lose sight of the action.*
OLED trade-offs and installation considerations
OLED’s self-lit pixels provide excellent black levels and contrast, but OLED is not automatically the best choice for every room. The brightest LCD or mini-LED televisions may be preferable where intense ambient light is the dominant concern. Reflections can also affect daytime viewing, depending on room layout and screen position.
Static content deserves consideration. PC desktops, news tickers, sports scoreboards, and always-on interfaces can contribute to image retention or burn-in risk over time. Use the television’s screen-saving features, vary displayed content, hide static taskbars where practical, and avoid leaving a paused image on screen for long periods. No claim about burn-in endurance should be inferred from LG’s launch announcement alone.
Large G5 models may require two-person handling or professional installation, particularly when wall mounted. Before buying, confirm wall construction, mount compatibility, power and cable routing, viewing height, delivery access, and the installer’s cost. The expired preorder installation benefit should not be included in a current budget.
Quick Recap
Buying checklist for 2026
- Check the live price: keep the original MSRP separate from today’s sale price.
- Confirm the size and model number: especially when comparing retailer listings or open-box stock.
- Compare equivalent sizes: do not compare the 42-inch C5’s launch price with a 55-inch G5.
- Read the warranty: the G5’s five-year statement concerns the panel and is not automatically comprehensive coverage.
- Budget for installation: particularly for a large, wall-mounted G5.
- Check return and delivery policies: large OLED panels require careful inspection on arrival.
- Compare alternatives: include discounted G4/C4 models and available C6/G6 sets.
- Match the TV to the source: verify that your PC, console, cable, and game can use the refresh rate you are paying for.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
