For years, those with modestly sized rooms have been unable to own the best TVs. It wasn't until 2020 that the first 48-inch OLED TV became available, and even that size is too large for many living rooms. You might expect manufacturers to have addressed this gap with premium LCD sets, but the quality of non-OLED TVs under 55 inches has generally been lackluster until recently.

However, 2022 marks the year when exceptional flagship performance is available in smaller TVs, as 42-inch OLEDs have finally arrived, starting with LG's OLED42C2. To put it simply, it's the best 42-inch TV ever made.

Price

When it comes to value for money, this product truly stands out. Affordability meets high performance, offering you the best of both worlds. You'll find it hard to beat in terms of cost-effectiveness and quality. Whether you're on a tight budget or simply looking for the best deals, this is an option you won't want to miss. Secure high value without compromising on features or functionality.

The OLED42C2’s launch price was £1399 / $1400 / AU$2695, which many might find steep for a 42-inch TV. Fortunately, substantial discounts have brought the price down to £999 / $1150 / $2295. While still on the pricier side for this size, it’s more attainable and quite reasonable given it’s the first of its kind.

The new 42-inch OLED panel in the C2 is also featured in the Sony XR-42A90K, which, even after discounts, remains costly at £1399 / $1250 / AU$2795. UK buyers also have three different 42-inch Panasonic OLEDs to consider: the TX-42LZ800B (£1199), TX-42LZ980B (also £1199), and TX-42LZ1500B (£1399).

Potential buyers might find themselves choosing between the LG C2 OLED and Samsung’s QN90B ‘Neo’ QLED, which is currently priced at £899 / $1100 / AU$1999.

Design

Our latest product showcases a sleek and modern design that effortlessly blends style and functionality. The ergonomic structure ensures a comfortable user experience, while the elegant lines and high-quality materials exude a sense of sophistication. Perfect for any setting, our innovative design stands out in both home and office environments.

In a world dominated by TVs that are 55 inches and bigger, the OLED42C2 stands out as uniquely compact. Not too long ago, 42 inches was considered very large for a television, making it an ideal choice for smaller living rooms and larger bedrooms.

LG recognizes the demand for smaller OLEDs not just as TVs but also as monitors for work and gaming. This is why they've replaced the pedestal stand of larger C2 models with two blade-like feet that occupy less desk space.

Without the feet, the set is 4.1cm (1.6 inches) thick, and this thickness remains consistent, except for a few centimetres on the sides and back where the processing hardware, connections, and speakers are housed within the chassis.

Overall, the 42-inch C2 embraces minimalism, appearing almost plain. While this won't be a problem for most users, those in search of the flashy designs typical of some gaming monitors might want to consider other options.

Features

Discover the standout features that make our product a must-have in today's market. Designed to deliver unparalleled performance and user experience, each aspect combines cutting-edge technology with practical functionality. From its sleek design to its robust build, every detail is curated to enhance your daily life. Dive into a world where innovation meets comfort, and get ready to elevate your expectations.

The 42-inch C2 is a compact, feature-rich version of its larger siblings, with one key difference—it doesn’t get as bright as the 55-inch and above models. Despite the ‘OLED Evo’ branding, which refers to the combination of picture hardware and software, the smaller sizes can’t be driven as hard due to the density of the OLEDs (Organic Light Emitting Diodes).

Although the 42-inch and 48-inch models miss out on the brightness boost seen in the 55-inch C2s and larger, they still match last year’s C1 OLED TVs in brightness. So, rest assured, these smaller screens won’t appear dull by comparison.

Under the hood, the 42-inch C2 packs the same Alpha 9 Gen 5 processor as its bigger counterparts. This powerful processor improves AI upscaling by eliminating artefacts, and introduces a Dynamic Tone-mapping Pro Algorithm for more precise screen enhancements.

The Alpha 9 Gen 5 also supports the impressive new Dolby Vision IQ with Precision Detail. This feature tweaks contrast and brightness to uncover more detail, especially in dark scenes. While it’s a notable addition, some may find it introduces shimmer to the image. However, future software updates might make it more appealing.

Gamers will find no room for disappointment. The 42-inch C2 includes four 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K/120Hz signals from the Xbox Series X, PS5, and top-tier PC graphics cards. Plus, it supports all major gaming specs including VRR, ALLM, and features an excellent HGiG mode. Uniquely, LG’s C2, G2, and Z2 OLEDs support Dolby Vision gaming up to 4K/120Hz. With input lag under 10ms in Boost Mode, it’s perfect for next-gen gaming.

For those who love TV and movies, the C2's webOS22 platform offers a treasure trove of apps. Every streaming service you could want is available, and all the must-watch content is ready in 4K, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.

Picture

Our latest product offers an exceptional picture quality that will leave you in awe. Upgraded with cutting-edge technology, this model ensures vibrant colors and remarkable clarity, making your viewing experience truly immersive.

Whether you're a movie enthusiast or a gaming aficionado, our product's superior display capabilities cater to all your visual needs. Enjoy sharper images, enhanced contrast, and lifelike detail — all of which bring your content to life.

• Stunning Resolution: Experience every detail with our state-of-the-art resolution technology.

• Vibrant Colors: The advanced color processing provides a broad spectrum of vivid hues.

• Enhanced Brightness: Revel in clear visibility, even in brightly lit rooms.

Get ready to transform your viewing habits with the sophisticated picture quality of our newest product. It's time to see entertainment in a whole new light!

While there have been brighter TVs at this size, none have matched the contrast delivered here. Watching the night-time attack on New Asgard in Thor: Love And Thunder is mesmerizing, with a striking mix of inky blacks and pure whites. The brightness is consistent, so you stay immersed in the action without distraction.

Though LCD-based models like the Samsung QN90B can achieve higher brightness levels than OLEDs, they usually struggle to produce intense highlights in dark scenes without creating an unpleasant bloom. For instance, in the basement scene at the start of It, the LG C2 makes the 'eyes' Georgie sees sparkle menacingly in the darkness, whereas the QN90B's dim reproduction reduces the scene's intensity.

If you think inky blacks and bright highlights mean a lack of subtlety, think again. The C2 achieves a near-perfect balance of deep blacks and shadow details, enhancing the dramatic intensity of the darker scenes without exaggeration.

The C2 also excels in color accuracy. While the Sony XR-42A90K may appear more authentic at times, it can occasionally make scenes or characters appear somewhat pale. In contrast, the C2 offers a warmer and richer color balance that, while slightly less accurate, always looks natural and pleasing. Its ability to distinguish between shades ensures that Bond’s tan suit remains distinct from the similarly beige stonework and light-brown hillside of Matera in the No Time To Die 4K Blu-ray.

Where the Sony A90K has a significant edge is in motion processing, providing a perfect balance of smoothing and naturalism. The LG C2, though theoretically capable, lacks a perfect setting. With TruMotion off or set to Cinematic Movement, there's slight judder and blur. The Natural setting is excellent most of the time but can occasionally produce a soap opera effect and a bit of shimmer. Overall, while the C2's motion processing is excellent by TV standards, it requires a compromise you wouldn’t face with the pricier Sony model.

In summary, the C2 is balanced in every other aspect. It's punchy yet controlled, vibrant yet natural, and sharp without being exaggerated. Minimal adjustment is needed from the user, thanks to high-quality presets. The most significant decision you'll face is choosing the most satisfying TruMotion setting.

Sound

Experience transformative sound that elevates your listening sessions. With our advanced technology, every note, beat, and melody is rendered with crystal-clear precision. Our sound systems are designed to deliver an immersive audio experience, bringing your favorite tunes to life like never before.

Whether you're into booming bass or crisp treble, our products cater to every audiophile's preference. Each piece is engineered for optimal performance, ensuring that you hear music just as the artist intended.

Ready to upgrade your audio experience? Explore our range of products and discover how superior sound can make a difference. From state-of-the-art speakers to innovative soundbars, we have everything you need to enhance your auditory journey. Check out our latest offerings and take the first step towards unparalleled sound quality.

Generally, smaller TVs have weaker sound, especially in terms of volume and bass. Unfortunately, the 42-inch C2 follows this trend. It doesn't get very loud, even at max volume, and its bass is lacking. It tries to handle deep frequencies, like those in Blade Runner 2049, but ends up sounding fairly weak and slightly flappy.

However, it's important to remember that overall audio quality in TVs of this size is typically not great, and the C2 holds its own among similar models. While it lacks deep bass and volume, it does offer clear, punchy, and spacious sound. If you mostly watch standard TV, you'll likely be satisfied. For a more cinematic experience, consider adding a soundbar to your setup.

Verdict

In conclusion, this product stands out as a remarkable choice in its category. Its blend of excellent performance and user-friendly features make it a top contender. For anyone seeking quality and reliability, this is a solid option worth considering.

The LG OLED42C2 stands as the best 42-inch TV to date. While it's notably the first OLED of its size, it outshines even Sony's new XR-42A90K with its stellar contrast, vibrant colors, and impressive punch.

Combine that with an enhanced gaming spec and a significantly reduced price, and you've got an unbeatable performance-for-price champion.