LG and Sony are two of the most respected TV manufacturers, known for making top-tier displays packed with innovative features. When it comes to their 2023 OLED TV lineup, the LG A2 and Sony Bravia models stand out as great options for shoppers seeking superb 4K picture quality. But how do they compare, and which is the better buy this year?
Overview of the LG A2 OLED TV
The A2 is LG’s most affordable 2023 OLED TV. It comes in 48”, 55”, 65” and 77” screen sizes, featuring LG’s latest α7 Gen6 AI Processor to optimize picture and sound. The self-lit OLED panel delivers perfect blacks and infinite contrast, aided by support for Dolby Vision and HDR10 high dynamic range formats.
Other key features of the LG A2 include:
- 4K (3,840 x 2,160) resolution
- 120Hz refresh rate
- HDMI 2.1 ports (allows 4K/120Hz input)
- Low input lag for gaming
- webOS smart platform with access to popular streaming apps
- Magic remote included
- Starting price around $1,300
Overview of Sony’s 2023 Bravia OLED TV Lineup
Sony Bravia OLED TVs come in both Master Series and standard models, ranging from 48” to 77” screen sizes. They match the A2‘s self-lit OLED panels and Dolby Vision/HDR specs, taken further with Sony’s advanced XR cognitive processor for best-in-class upscaling and image enhancements.
Other shared Bravia specs and features:
- 4K resolution up to 120 fps
- Next-gen HDMI 2.1
- Acoustic Surface Audio+ (speaker system built into screen)
- Google TV smart platform
- Voice remote control
- Prices from around $1,300 up to $6,000
Unique aspects of the high-end “A95K” Master Series model include QD-OLED technology for wider colors and better brightness, along with a sleek, minimalist standless design.
Design and Physical Attributes
The A2 sports LG‘s familiar minimalist style, with slim black bezels surrounding the screen and no external speakers cluttering up the frame (sound comes from downward-firing speakers). The included stand consists of two angled legs toward the edges. The rear plastic housing feels a bit insubstantial but allows for easy wall mounting.
Sony‘s Bravia displays all use the same monolithic design approach seen in last year‘s critically acclaimed A95K. Bezels are non-existent, there’s no distracting stand or visible speakers, and the panel is floats ethereally in front of your wall. This takes home theater aesthetics to another level while allowing the picture to truly take center stage.
Build quality and components seem more premium across Sony‘s range compared to LG‘s cheaper-feeling budget models. But ultimately aesthetic preference will determine which look you prefer for your living space.
Display Technology and Picture Quality
Both LG and Sony use OLED panels boasting perfect black levels and pixel-precise illumination control, so you can expect world-class contrast from both. When displaying HDR content from the likes of Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, highlights and colors will pop beautifully on either brand.
However, Sony’s 2023 TVs add their unique “XR OLED Contrast Pro” tech for up to 200% more brightness in highlights versus last year‘s models. Reviewers praise Sony for continuing to push OLED to become even better. So when it comes to raw picture specs and performance, Sony likely retains an edge this year.
Processing is another Sony strong suit. Their cognitive XR chip leverages advanced AI and cutting-edge upscaling algorithms to optimize any video source to full 4K HDR glory. Sony TVs are renowned for making lower quality content look great, revealing new details in movies and shows. LG’s latest α7 Gen6 AI Processor offers its own upscaling and processing perks, but lags slightly behind Sony based on experts analyses.
One area where LG excels is off-angle viewing. Their OLED screens maintain color accuracy and contrast at wider angles compared to Sony. So if you have a very wide living room where people will be watching the TV from all seats, LG is the safer pick.
To summarize, Sony Bravia TVs should deliver the all-around best picture, while LG is nearly as good and better suited for big rooms with wide seating. But reviewers say even LG‘s budget models like the A2 achieve superb image quality that will satisfy most users.
Gaming Performance
For gaming, LG pulls ahead in a few regards. They offer lower input lag (under 10ms) ensuring super responsive game controls, along with FreeSync Premium variable refresh rate support for smooth graphics lacking tearing or stutters. Fan-favorite gaming features like low latency and fast response times come standard across all LG’s 2023 OLED models, including the affordable A2.
Sony’s displays also offer solid gaming specs, but some features require stepping up in price. The high-end Sony XR83A90K has under 8ms input lag with VRR support matching LG’s capability. However budget Sony sets omit gaming conveniences found even in cheap LG models like the A2. So LG takes the crown as the better brand for gaming value.
Smart TV and Connectivity
LG‘s user-friendly webOS platform offers intuitive controls and quick access to all the major streaming video services. From Netflix to Disney+ and beyond, LG makes hopping between apps simple. webOS also supports advanced features like custom user profiles, ambient modes when idle, and AI-enhanced voice commands via integrated mics. Pairing Bluetooth accessories and external devices is a cinch as well.
Over in Sony‘s corner, their Google TV interface provides a more stripped down smart TV experience focused on streaming entertainment. The home screen highlights trending content and personalized recommendations for shows/movies across installed apps. Bluetooth andcasting from phones works great, while a minimalist settings menu keeps things direct.
Both smart TV systems have strengths and weaknesses – webOS offers richer features while Google TV nails content aggregation. Regardless, streaming fans will have full access to 4K HDR movies, shows, sports and more on either brand‘s TVs equipped with ample connectivity. From an interface standpoint Sony perhaps keeps things simpler while LG provides more personalization and multimedia options.
Sound Systems
As both TVs use OLED panels without room to stick rear speakers, built-in audio relies on downward or forward-firing speaker systems with limited bass response. For truly cinematic sound you‘ll still want to pair either the A2 or Bravia TV with a premium soundbar (or surround system).
However, Sony‘s Acoustic Surface Audio+ tech leverages actuators behind the display to turn the whole screen into a speaker. This allows for perceptibly better clarity and channel separation. Dialogue seems to come directly from characters’ mouths thanks to centered audio tied to on-screen positioning. Sony Bravia TVs offer the better sounding integrated audio solution of the two brands.
Prices and Warranties
LG‘s affordable pricing across all sizes of the A2 makes it among the cheapest OLEDs with flagship-level performance. The 65-inch model retails around $1300, hundreds less than Sony‘s entry-level OLED of the same size. Stepping up to one of Sony’s premium Master Series models can cost $3000+ for 65” or larger.
However, Sony comes with the peace of mind of a 5 year limited warranty covering most users across its entire OLED lineup in 2023. LG provides just a 1 year warranty standard. Picking Sony means that much longer lasting protection should issues arise down the line.
Here’s a pricing breakdown for two of the most popular 65-inch configurations:
- LG 65" OLED A2 – $1299.99 retail with 1 year warranty
- Sony 65” Bravia XR65A90K – $2499.99 retail with 5 year warranty
While the LG A2 offers tremendous value upfront, over time Sony delivers hundreds in additional savings. Factor in extended warranty coverage and LG’s budget model becomes less affordable long term.
Verdict: LG A2 vs Sony Bravia OLED
When it comes to winning value, rich features and sheer wow-factor, Sony Bravia OLED TVs edge out LG in 2023. The combination of Cognitive XR processing, polished Google TV software, and best-in-industry acoustic engineering allow Sony models to justify premium prices. Savings from half-a-decade of included warranty coverage also offset higher upfront costs over time.
However, LG‘s discounted A2 series provides near-flagship performance for budget-minded shoppers. Gamers will also prefer LG’s OLEDs for optimal gaming responsiveness and VRR support right out of the box. For buyers prizing upfront affordability over premium frills, the LG A2 takes the trophy as a cost effective way to enjoy superb OLED picture quality.
In the end you can’t go wrong with either brand‘s 2023 OLED lineup. We recommend LG for their value and gamer-friendly displays, while Sony excels for home theater enthusiasts wanting the ultimate OLED experience. Choose the one aligning best with your OLED TV priorities this year!
