With TV screens getting bigger and sharper every year, 86 inch and even 85 inch TVs are becoming more mainstream. The two top contenders in this giant screen size category are the LG 86 inch TVs and the Samsung 85 inch TVs.
But which one is right for your living room or home theater? Here’s a detailed comparison of the key factors to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs | LG 86″ TV | Samsung 85″ TV |
| Screen Type | LED | QLED |
| Resolution | 4K | 4K |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| HDR Format | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10 Pro | HDR10+ |
| Smart TV Platform | webOS | Tizen |
| Voice Assistant | LG ThinQ AI | Bixby |
| Speakers | 4.2 Ch, 80W | 4.2 Ch, 60W |
Overview Of LG And Samsung TV
When it comes to extra-large screens, LED and QLED are currently the two best display technologies. LG uses a direct LED backlight system on its 86 inch screens, while Samsung uses self-emitting QLED technology on its 85 inch models.
Both deliver gorgeous 4K ultra HD resolution and fast 120Hz refresh rates for smooth motion. You’ll also get excellent high dynamic range (HDR) performance from the advanced HDR formats supported.
LG’s webOS smart platform is intuitive to use with built-in access to all popular streaming apps. Samsung’s Tizen interface is equally robust and even offers Ambient Mode for displaying art or photos when the TV is idle.
LG TVs work with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for hands-free voice control. Samsung has its own Bixby assistant, but it also supports Google Assistant and Alexa.
One difference is in the sound system. LG packs a more powerful 80W 4.2 channel speaker system compared to Samsung’s 60W speakers. But for a truly immersive experience, you’ll want to pair either TV with a surround sound system or soundbar.
Now let’s dive deeper into some key considerations that can help sway your buying decision one way or the other when choosing between these two top-tier extra-large screen TVs.
Picture Quality Face-Off
LG’s NanoCell LED backlighting produces brilliant colors and deep blacks. The TV’s intelligent processor analyzes source content and ambient conditions to optimize HDR and SDR picture quality.
Samsung’s QLED panels deliver outstanding contrast and color accuracy powered by quantum dot technology. The company’s Quantum Processor automatically upscales lower resolution content and adapts the picture to the viewing environment.
Both TVs support Dolby Vision and HDR10 for amazing HDR imaging. LG also supports Dolby Vision IQ which analyzes ambient lighting and adapts the picture accordingly. Samsung includes HDR10+ which is an open standard version of HDR with dynamic metadata.
Ultimately, both TVs deliver gorgeous, cutting-edge 4K HDR picture quality and perform neck and neck in this category. It’s a matter of subjective preference in terms of colors and contrast between OLED and QLED when picking between these market leaders.
Gaming Performance
For serious console or PC gaming, these extra-large screens both shine. With 4K resolution, 120Hz refresh rates, and fast response times, you’ll get super smooth gameplay.
LG TVs support Nvidia G-Sync, AMD FreeSync, and the HGiG HDR gaming profile. Samsung also has FreeSync support. Auto low latency modes get input lag down to impressively low levels for competitive gaming.
Both brands offer advanced gaming features across their lineup. Large screen size combined with gaming enhancements makes either of these TVs a superb pick for immersive, big-screen gaming.
Also Read: Comparison Between Sony A80J And A80K OLED TV.
Smart TV & Apps
You’ll be well served by either webOS or Tizen – two of the best smart TV platforms on the market. All major streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+ and more are present on both platforms.
Both LG and Samsung allow you to quickly jump into live over-the-air TV from the home screen. You also get ports for pay TV setup boxes. The intuitive interfaces make it easy to access free streaming channels and apps.
One advantage of LG is that it offers built-in access to the Stadia cloud gaming service. But Samsung isn’t far behind with its own cloud gaming platform.
Overall, you’ll have an abundance of entertainment options from these two smart hubs. WebOS and Tizen are mature, robust, and easy to use making either one a great choice.
Design & Connectivity
With giant screens, aesthetics and connectivity options are important. Both TVs have minimal bezels with sleek, modern designs. They can be wall mounted but also look great on the included stand.
For ports, you get 4 HDMI inputs with HDMI 2.1 support for full bandwidth to external devices. There are also USB ports plus RF and composite connections. Dual band Wi-Fi and Ethernet ensure reliable wireless or wired connectivity.
One advantage of LG is that some models include the newer HDMI 2.1 ports needed for 8K video and advanced gaming features. Only one port on Samsung’s TV has full HDMI 2.1 capability.
Audio Performance
With big screens, sound quality can’t be overlooked. LG integrates more speaker drivers for 80W of sound power – enough to fill larger rooms. Their AI Sound Pro feature analyzes content and optimizes audio output.
Samsung’s 60W 4.2 channel speakers with object tracking sound can project audio at different angles for a more immersive experience. Their Q-Symphony feature lets the TV speakers synchronize with a soundbar.
For truly powerful, nuanced audio, adding a soundbar or surround system is recommended for either TV. But LG may have an edge for audio performance right out of the box.
Also watch the video about Samsung 85″ TV!
Price Comparison
With top-tier flagship TVs like these, price tags can run very high. But you may be able to find discounts and deals especially during holiday sales events.
The 86″ LG NanoCell TV originally retailed at $5,999 but can now be found for around $3,500. Samsung’s 85″ Neo QLED 8K TV launched at $9,999 but has seen discounts bringing it down to around $5,500.
Of course, prices vary by exact model. But expect to pay a premium for these largest screen sizes. Carefully compare prices between different retailers to find the best deal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Both LG and Samsung make top-tier TVs using the latest display technologies. In terms of pure picture quality, they are extremely close and comparable overall. Look at specific features and prices to choose what’s better for you.
LG’s latest NanoCell LED TVs compete head to head with Samsung’s QLED screens. Both deliver amazing 4K HDR picture quality. LG has an advantage for brightness while Samsung may have better black levels. It’s very close between these two display technologies.
Yes, LG makes excellent LED and OLED TVs that regularly earn top rankings and reviews. Their advanced display tech and smart TV features match or beat competitors. LG TVs are a great choice for both picture quality and value.
Samsung TVs justify their premium pricing with top-tier performance and innovative technology like QLED screens. You’re getting superb quality that can match more expensive OLED TVs at a lower cost from Samsung.
Also Read: Is Vizio Better Than Philips TV?
Which is Better for You?
For most buyers, this matchup is too close to call definitively. Both LG and Samsung make excellent LED TVs and you can expect world-class performance either way.
Think about which features and capabilities matter most like gaming, audio, or smart apps. Look at pricing and availability too. And consider aesthetics since these TVs anchor your living space.
It’s worth visiting retail stores to see LG and Samsung models side by side if possible. And be sure to research reviews from credible technology sites.
At the end of the day, you have two fantastic options for giant screen home theater entertainment. Pick the one that aligns with your needs, budget, and style preferences. Rest assured you will be rewarded with an amazing TV viewing experience.