Another year, another G-Series OLED – how do the LG G4 vs LG G3 compare?
Updated: Jan 12, 2024 5:08 pm
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It’s no secret that CES 2024 has provided us with more than enough to look forward to this year, and with a fresh line-up of LG OLED TVs on their way, we want to compare the LG G4 vs LG G3 OLED TV. These two fall within the more high-end category as gaming TVs – just ahead of the LG C4 and LG B4 as part of the 2024 range.
The LG G4 release date is soon upon us, so if you’re already looking at where to buy one, then we suggest doing some research and figuring out if it’s really worth it over last year’s G3. Thankfully, that’s where we come in, as we compare everything from specs to price. We’ve already done a LG C3 vs LG C4 OLED TV comparison, so the G4 is next in line. Year after year, LG prove that they deserve to the make the list of the best OLED TVs on the market.
LG G3 OLED Series
55″, 65″, 77″, 83″
LG G4 vs LG G3 specs
| Specification | LG G4 | LG G3 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Alpha 11 AI Chip | Alpha 9 Gen 6 |
| MLA (Micro Lens Array) | Yes | Yes (except 83″ model) |
| Screen technology | OLED | OLED |
| Screen resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) | 3840 x 2160 (4K) |
| Max refresh rate | 144Hz | 120Hz |
| Response time | 0.1ms (expected) | 0.1ms |
| Connectivity | HDMI 2.1 (x4), same connectivity options expected | HDMI 2.1 (x4), USB 2.0 (x3), Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6E |
| VRR | HDMI 2.1 VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium, Nvidia G-Sync | HDMI 2.1 VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium, G-Sync Compatible |
| Audio | AI Sound Pro (2 more audio channels), wireless lossless Dolby Atmos support, | AI Sound Pro, Dolby Atmos |
The LG G3 was the debut of MLA (Micro Lens Array) technology and a real step up in terms of OLED brightness compared the G2 or older. It’s hard to top that kind of jump this year, but there are some details to discuss. The G4 comes with a newer Alpha 11 AI Chip, including features such as a Peak Highlighter capable of going as high as 50% brighter, though it won’t be this substantial in practice. One important detail is that MLA is coming to the 83-inch G4, something that the G3 size equivalent missed out on.
Many specs remain similar, but the refresh rate is actually getting an increase for the LG G4. This is great for PC gamers, even if console gaming dominates on these large G-series screens. Up from 120Hz to 144Hz and support from Nvidia G-Sync, rather than the basic ‘Compatible’ standard on the G3. Worth noting that current gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X will max out at 120Hz regardless.
LG G4 vs LG G3 design & sizing
Moving on to design now and these two TVs are largely similar in terms of how they look. As you may expect from an OLED TV, they’re ultra-slim. Both the LG G4 and G3 come in a similar range of sizes (55-inch, 65-inch, 77-inch, and 83-inch), which is not a surprise to see, but the G4 will be getting a massive 97″ model as well.
There is one part of the design which is important to mention. The LG G4 comes with a stand, something you’d actually have to pay extra for with the G3 as that would only come with the Zero Gap Wall Mount. This time around, the smaller 55″ and 65″ models come with a pedestal stand, and the any size higher will come with a wall mount, as it is recommended to do so as once you go this far up in sizing.
LG G4 vs LG G3 price
We’re still waiting on exactly how much the LG G4 will cost, but we suspect that it will be incredibly similar to the LG G3’s launch pricing. For reference, this is how that looked:
- LG G3 83″: $6,499
- LG G3 77″: $4,499
- LG G3 65″: $3,299
- LG G3 55″: $2,299
As a high-end model, you can obviously expect it to cost a fair amount of cash. The good news if you’re not so sold on upgrading to the G4 is that the LG G3 has been dropping down in price ever since it was released – even more so now that the 2024 refresh is on the way. We’ve been spotting lots of deals recently, so you can pick up the 3rd gen display for considerably cheaper these days.
LG G4 vs LG G3 gaming performance
There’s no denying that both of these 4K gaming TVs are fantastic for, well, just that. You won’t be disappointed with the G3 for gaming, especially if you’re making the most of its 120HZ at 4K performance thanks to HDMI 2.1. We do have to point out though that the G4 does have the slight edge in gaming scenarios.
As we mentioned before, PC gaming has a little of extra potential unlocked in the LG G4 thanks to the higher 144Hz refresh rate, as well as proper Nvidia G-Sync support – something that is usually reserved for gaming monitors. Even though the LG OLED C-Series has been preferred for PC gaming thanks it smaller sizes that fit well on a desktop, the impressive G4 gives you a top-tier option.
LG G4 vs LG G3 OLED TV – which is better?
If you want to compare these two based on the specs alone, then of course the LG G4 comes out on top. It represents a refresh of the LG G3, with some noteworthy improvements. We think that the jump from the LG G2 to G3 was more substantial though due to the MLA technology. We don’t suggest upgrading to the G4 if you already have a G3, unless you happen to have more than enough cash to throw around or specifically want to upsize to a newer 83″ MLA or 97″ model.
Overall, this 2024 model is a solid upgrade to what we saw last year. As the tech gets better and potential growth shrinks, smaller improvements have to be made per generation. AI was a massive aspect of CES 2024 and the G4 makes good use of that, helping it become one of the best OLED TVs of 2024 without question.
LG G4 vs LG G3 OLED TV FAQs
Does the LG G4 OLED TV have Micro Lens Array?
Yes, the LG G4 does feature their brightness-boosting MLA technology, much like the G3. If you’re looking to benefit from this, then you’ll have to stick to the G-series or better, as even the new LG C4 lacks this tech.
Should I get the LG G4 or LG G3?
Picking between the LG G4 and LG G3 doesn’t have to be too difficult. If you want the very latest tech or want to benefit from upgrades such as the slightly higher refresh rate, then the G4 is for you. Otherwise, the G3 is a fantastic TV in its own right and will only get cheaper as time goes by.
