Comparison of Panasonic W95A with OLED TVs, Discussion on HDMI Cables, and Upgrade Options for Soundbars
Chuck is on the hunt for a new TV, pondering between the Panasonic W95A mini-LED and the LG Z85 OLED. His priorities are contrast, true color, detail, and brightness, in that order.
The LG Z85 OLED offers infinite contrast, producing true blacks and exceptional contrast precision. It delivers excellent color accuracy and deep saturation, making it an ideal choice for dimly lit or dark viewing environments. On the other hand, the Panasonic W95A mini-LED simulates contrast via thousands of tiny LEDs with local dimming zones, offering good contrast but with some haloing around bright objects.
When it comes to true color, OLED displays have natural saturation, while Mini-LED TVs that include quantum dot layers can achieve higher color volume at very bright levels, making HDR highlights like neon signs and fireballs appear very vibrant. Both technologies deliver vivid colors, with Mini-LED sometimes offering slightly more saturated tones at high brightness.
In terms of brightness, Mini-LED typically achieves much higher brightness levels than OLED, which benefits scenes requiring impactful brightness like HDR explosions. Although flagship OLED models are improving brightness performance, Mini-LED generally retains an edge in this area.
In Chuck's dimly lit viewing environment, the OLED's ability to produce perfect blacks and infinite contrast levels makes it a better suited choice. However, the W95A works well in bright rooms but may exhibit backlight blooming and local dimming limitations compared to true pixel-level control in OLED.
If budget allows, a 65-inch LG C4 is recommended for a more immersive experience. A 55-inch LG G4 is also a good option, but a 65-inch LG C4 might offer a better viewing experience. If Chuck insists on the OLED, the reviewer suggests the LG G4 as a good option.
It's worth noting that the reviewer does not provide specific recommendations for the LG C4, Hisense U8NQ, or any other specific mini-LED TVs. If Chuck's current soundbar system is working smoothly, it's recommended to ride it out unless he's upgrading to something significantly better.
Chuck listens through headphones, so sound quality is not a concern. When moving the TV carefully, issues are rare, making it durable. His viewing environment is dimly lit and he watches the TV angled out on a wall mounted arm, while sitting at the kitchen table.
Year after year, LG's C-series TVs are attractive due to their price-to-performance ratio. If the OLED is not bright enough, the W95A's contrast should still satisfy Chuck and be a step up from his current TV. If Chuck doesn't want the hassle of potentially returning the OLED, he should go with the W95A.
Lastly, when purchasing HDMI cables, look for those labeled "Premium Certified" to pass 4K content. The LG G4 is a great TV, with a picture that's plenty bright, making it a good option for Chuck's consideration.
In consideration of Chuck's dimly lit viewing environment and preference for lifestyle products, the LG Z85 OLED, with its ability to produce perfect blacks and infinite contrast levels, might be a suitable choice for his home-and-garden setting. On the other hand, the Panasonic W95A mini-LED, while offering good contrast and vibrant colors, may not meet Chuck's expectations due to potential backlight blooming in a dimly lit environment.
