LG C3 vs. Z3: Which TV is the Better Value?

LG is undoubtedly a brand worth considering if you want to upgrade your television. They offer high-quality television sets featuring outstanding designs, wide viewing angles, and great picture quality.

The LG C3 and Z3 OLED TVs are among the latest additions to the brand’s lineup, as announced at the recently concluded CES 2023. These new generations OLED Evo panels have amazing color rendering, brightness, and sound quality when compared to previous generations.

The LG C3 is a modest upgrade of the LG C2 that was released in 2022. It includes an updated version of webOS and a 4K a9 Gen6 AI processor — both technologies significantly improving sound and image quality. The LG Z3 is an upgrade of the LG Z2, also released in 2022. It includes these same features but comes in at a higher price point with an 8K resolution. It is also limited to only two size options.

Choosing between the two is not easy, especially because they are yet to hit the retail market. However, we’ll do our best to compare these two new LG OLED TVs using the limited information provided by the manufacturer and referring to the preceding models. So, here we discuss the factors to consider and highlight the differences between the two to make the decision easier for you.

LG C3 vs. Z3: Side-by-Side Comparison

LG C3 vs. Z3: What’s the Difference?

The LG C3 and Z3, headliners of LG’s 2023 TV lineup, are nothing less than impressive. They include the latest technologies to elevate your viewing experience by enhancing image brightness and accuracy and improving sound quality precision. We also can’t forget the upgraded webOS platform that packs more smart features for you to enjoy. Let’s look at how these new OLED TVs by LG compare.

Picture Quality

The LG C3 and Z3 will include the latest a9 AI Gen6 processor — a deep learning technology that allows content upscaling and dynamic tone mapping. This advanced processor automatically enhances visual quality by fine-tuning image reproduction.

They also include a Quick Media Switching VRR that facilitates smooth transitions between different media types by eliminating the brief transitory black screen that occurs when you’re playing media from different output sources. The difference in resolution brings about the major difference in picture quality between the two TVs. The LG C3 is a 4K TV, meaning it has up to 3840 x 2160 pixels, while the LG Z3 is 8K and doubles the number of pixels to 7680 x 4320 pixels.

8K is the future resolution, providing a more immersive viewing experience with more naturalistic and detailed picture quality. The increased resolution also results in sharper pictures with smoother lines and curves and a more accurate representation of images. The 8K upscaling technology in the LG Z3 will transform 4K content into immersive 8K resolution through deep learning. The LG Z3, unlike the LG C3, will also include ATSC 3.0 support, a broadcast TV standard that allows for better picture quality by allowing for higher quality and more vivid colors.

Sound Quality

According to LG, these new OLED TVs will have significantly better sound than their predecessors, thanks to the a9 Gen 6 AI processor. The AI processor creates a virtual 9.1.2 surround sound in the built-in speakers, an upgrade from the documented 7.1.2 surround sound produced by the 2022 LG C2 and Z2 models.

They’ll also boast a new sound technology called the WOW Orchestra, which improves the sound quality when streaming sound through the built-in speakers and compatible soundbars. This sound feature creates a more realistic listening experience by expanding the soundstage and adding depth, detail, and impact to the sound.

Connectivity

LG always maximizes the connectivity features of all its TVs, and they didn’t fall short with these new OLED TVs. Their announcement during CES 2023 shows that the new models will include NVIDIA G-SYNC, AMD FreeSync, and HDMI 2.1 support. These technologies guarantee quality images, smooth transitions, and minimal input lag.

HDMI 2.1 is the latest HDMI specification that supports various high video resolutions, including 4K and 8K videos with HDR. The cable is backward compatible with devices, has low electromagnetic interference, and supports Source-Based Tone Mapping.

The LG Z3 and C3 will also be among the first TVs to include a Quick Media Switching VRR (QMS-VRR) function that ensures smoother transitions between various media types with different frame rates. This technology phases out the intermittent black screen when streaming content from different devices connected to the TV via the HDMI 2.1 ports.

Gaming Capabilities

LG OLED TVs are among the best gaming monitors you can use, thanks to the 0.1 ms response time, variable refresh rate (VRR), low input lag, and the connectivity technologies included. The LG C3 and Z3 will offer a next-generation gaming experience because they include NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium technologies. These deliver the best image quality and transfer rates when playing fast-paced games. 

The NVIDIA G-SYNC is an amazing display technology that delivers a super smooth and fast gaming experience with minimal input lag and screen tearing. It also synchronizes the display refresh rates with the GPU, meaning game scenes will appear instantly on your LG TV, and the images will be sharper. The LG C3 and Z3 will also include a new HDR feature: source-based tone mapping. This feature will ensure your monitor automatically produces an optimized HDR signal that maximizes each display’s potential.

Software

The LG C3 and Z3 TV models are supposed to include updated webOS Smart TV software. The software has advanced personalization tools powered by AI, a new interface, an updated home screen, and a Quick Cards function. You will now have access to individual profiles for each family member and customized content suggestions based on viewing preferences, search, or viewing history. Besides, the Quick Cards function will organize content and services into logical categories for you. 

The new interface is generally more user-friendly and easier to navigate. It also supports a wide range of content from various providers. This allows you to switch between different content sources and apps without having to exit the current app first. Additionally, it allows integration with other connected devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and game consoles, making it easy to access and control multiple devices from one platform.

Sizes

The diagonal size of your TV is an essential feature to consider because it determines whether or not your TV will fit and complement your space. The LG C3 has significantly more size options, including 42, 48, 55, 65, 77, and 83 inches. This gives you more options to choose from, whether your space is big or small. The LG Z3, on the other hand, is best for big spaces because it only comes in two large-size options: 77 inches and 83 inches.

LG C3 vs Z3: 5 Must-Know Facts

• The LG C3 and Z3 have an a9 AI Gen6 processor, a deep-learning technology that allows content upscaling and dynamic tone mapping. 
• The a9 Gen 6 AI processor in the LG C3 and LG Z3 will facilitate the production of a virtual 9.1.2 surround sound created by the built-in speakers.
• The LG C3 and Z3 models will have better connectivity thanks to NVIDIA G-SYNC, AMD FreeSync, and HDMI 2.1 support.
• The LG C3 and Z3 will offer a next-generation gaming experience because they include NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium technologies.
• The LG C3 and Z3 TV models will have the updated webOS Smart TV software with advanced personalization tools powered by AI.
• The LG C3 is available in many diagonal sizes, including 42, 48, 55, 65, 77, and 83 inches.
• There are only two diagonal size options for the LG Z3: 77 and 83 inches.

LG C3 vs. Z3: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Buy?

It’s still hard to tell which one is the better unit because, so far, we can only rely on the information shared by the manufacturer and compare the 2023 LG C3 and Z3 TVs to the specifications and performance of the 2022 C2 and Z2 models. We look forward to bringing you a more detailed review after the official retail launch in the spring. Then, we’ll be able to dive deeper into the specifications, features, and performance of the 2023 LG C3 and Z3 Smart TV models.

However, we recommend buying a TV that aligns with your lifestyle and budget. We expect the LG Z3 to come in at a higher price point, making it an excellent choice if you aren’t on a budget and enjoy a future-proof 8K resolution. The LG C3 is a good choice if you are on a budget but still want a beautiful viewing experience.

LG C3 and Z3: Technology Update

Both the LG C3 and Z3 TVs have received recent technology updates:

LG C3:

May 2023

• A software update improved the image processing engine’s performance.
• A new feature “Game Optimizer” was added, enhancing the gaming experience.

July 2023

• The “Advanced Contrast Enhancer,” utilizing AI to improve HDR content contrast, was introduced.
• Support for the new Filmmaker Mode, delivering content as intended, was also added.

LG Z3:

June 2023

• A software update improved the image processing engine’s performance.
• The update introduced “Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro,” using AI to enhance the dynamic range of HDR content.
• Like the LG C3, the Z3 also received support for the new Filmmaker Mode.

Both TVs received bug fixes and performance improvements alongside these updates.

LG C3 and Z3: What’s Next

Future technology updates for the LG C3 and Z3 TVs may include:

• Support for new HDR formats: Expect potential updates to add compatibility with Dolby Vision IQ or HDR10+ Adaptive alongside their current support for HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG.
• Enhanced gaming features: Anticipate more gaming features, like support for variable refresh rate (VRR) or automatic low latency mode (ALLM), to improve the gaming experience.
• Innovative control options: Look forward to possible additions like smartphone app control or gesture controls, providing new ways to interact with the TVs.

Moreover, LG may release specific gaming features, optimized for the TVs’ fast response times and low input lag, as well as features designed to enhance HDR content performance.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©TK Kurikawa/Shutterstock.com.