Sony A80l vs LG C3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

LG C3 & Sony A80L share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the LG C3 rather than the Sony A80L

Why Do I Recommend The LG C3

  • The LG C3 has four HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting multiple high-bandwidth devices like PS5, Xbox Series X, and gaming PCs simultaneously without switching cables or losing advanced features, compared to the Sony A80L’s limited two HDMI 2.1 ports.
  • LG C3 supports NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync for eliminating screen tearing and stuttering during fast-paced gaming, resulting in smoother and more responsive gameplay, while the Sony A80L lacks compatibility with either technology.
  • It includes Brightness Booster technology for increasing peak luminance, which improves HDR highlights and overall visibility in bright rooms compared to the standard OLED panel on the Sony A80L.
  • The LG C3 features webOS 23 for faster navigation, easier content discovery, and a more personalized user experience with features like Quick Cards and customizable dashboards, while the Sony A80L lacks this feature.
  • LG C3 has Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for faster, more reliable wireless connectivity to modern routers and accessories, which improves streaming stability and device pairing compared to the A80L’s older wireless specs.
  • It includes a Game Optimizer mode for centralizing all gaming settings in one dashboard to tweak latency, VRR, black levels, and input responsiveness, while the Sony A80L lacks Game Optimizer mode.
  • The LG C3 is significantly lighter and slimmer than the Sony A80L for easier wall mounting and more seamless integration into minimalist room designs.

Maybe the Sony A80L price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the LG C3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureLG C3Sony A80L
Panel TypeOLED EvoOLED
Brightness EnhancementBrightness BoosterNo Brightness Booster
Image Processorα9 AI Processor Gen6Cognitive Processor XR
Smart PlatformwebOS 23Google TV
Voice AssistantLG ThinQ, Alexa, Google AssistantGoogle Assistant, Alexa
Apple Ecosystem SupportAirPlay 2, HomeKitAirPlay 2, HomeKit
HDMI Ports4x HDMI 2.12x HDMI 2.1
VRR SupportHDMI VRR, NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSyncHDMI VRR only
G-Sync/FreeSyncYesNo
Game FeaturesGame Optimizer, HGiGAuto HDR Tone Mapping
Audio TechAI Sound Pro, Dolby AtmosAcoustic Surface Audio+, Dolby Atmos
Picture ModesFilmmaker Mode, ISFNetflix Calibrated Mode
Remote ControlMagic Remote with pointerStandard Remote with Mic
Webcam SupportLG Webcam AccessoryBravia Cam
Stand DesignSlim centered standWide blade stand
Wall Mount CompatibilityVESA compatibleVESA compatible
Bezel ThicknessUltra-slim bezelsMinimal bezels
Size Variants42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″55″, 65″, 77″
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 4.2
Wi-Fi VersionWi-Fi 6Wi-Fi 5
Cloud GamingGeForce Now, BoosteroidPS Remote Play
Audio Output PortsOptical, eARC HDMIeARC HDMI
PriceCheck LG C3 PriceCheck Sony A80L Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • OLED Display Technology: Both LG C3 and Sony A80L use self-emissive OLED panels, delivering infinite contrast, perfect blacks, and wide viewing angles ideal for home cinema.
  • 4K Resolution and 120Hz Refresh Rate: They share a native 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, enabling sharp, fluid visuals for movies, sports, and next-gen gaming.
  • High Dynamic Range (HDR): Each supports HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision including Dolby Vision IQ, which adjusts picture settings in real-time based on ambient lighting.
  • Dolby Atmos Support: Both TVs include Dolby Atmos support for immersive, 3D audio whether via built-in speakers or a connected sound system through HDMI eARC.
  • Gaming Features: They both support HDMI 2.1, 4K at 120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), ensuring smooth and responsive gaming experiences.
  • Smart Capabilities & Voice Assistants: Both are smart TVs with built-in support for Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing voice commands, smart home control, and universal search.
  • Apple Ecosystem Compatibility: LG C3 and Sony A80L support Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit, letting you stream content from Apple devices and integrate into a HomeKit setup.
  • Streaming Services Access: Pre-installed apps include Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and more, with the ability to install additional services.
  • ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV): Both include tuners for ATSC 3.0 for future-proofed broadcast compatibility and improved over-the-air 4K reception.
  • Wall Mount and Size Availability: Both TVs come in 55″, 65″, and 77″ variants, are VESA wall-mount compatible, and fit well in various home theater configurations.

Common Features

FeatureLG C3Sony A80L
Display TypeOLEDOLED
Resolution4K Ultra HD (3840 × 2160)4K Ultra HD (3840 × 2160)
Refresh Rate120Hz Native120Hz Native
HDR SupportHDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionHDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision
Dolby Vision IQYesYes
Dolby AtmosYesYes
Upscaling TechnologyAI UpscalingXR 4K Upscaling
HDMI eARC SupportYesYes
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)YesYes
HDMI 2.1 SupportYesYes
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)YesYes
Gaming at 4K 120HzYesYes
Smart TV CapabilitiesYesYes
Voice AssistantsGoogle Assistant, AlexaGoogle Assistant, Alexa
Apple AirPlay 2YesYes
Apple HomeKitYesYes
Screen SizesAvailable in 55″, 65″, 77″Available in 55″, 65″, 77″
Wall MountableYesYes
ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV)YesYes
HDCP 2.3 SupportYesYes
CEC ControlYesYes
Filmmaker ModeYesYes
Streaming AppsNetflix, Prime, Disney+, YouTube, etc.Netflix, Prime, Disney+, YouTube, etc.
Remote with Voice InputYesYes
Bluetooth Audio OutputYesYes
Price Check LG C3 Price Check Sony A80L Price

FAQ

What type of display panels do the LG C3 and Sony A80L use?
Both the LG C3 and Sony A80L use OLED panels, which provide perfect blacks, high contrast, and wide viewing angles thanks to self-emissive pixels.

Do both TVs support Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos?
Yes, both the LG C3 and Sony A80L support Dolby Vision for high dynamic range video and Dolby Atmos for immersive audio experiences.

Which operating systems do these TVs run on?
The LG C3 runs on webOS 23, while the Sony A80L operates on the Google TV platform, each offering unique user interfaces and app ecosystems.

Do they support HDMI 2.1 for gaming features?
Yes, both TVs support HDMI 2.1, though the LG C3 has four HDMI 2.1 ports, while the Sony A80L includes two (HDMI 3 and 4).

Are these TVs compatible with 4K at 120Hz gaming?
Yes, both models support 4K at 120Hz with features like VRR and ALLM, making them suitable for next-gen gaming consoles.

Do the LG C3 and Sony A80L support G-Sync or FreeSync?
Only the LG C3 supports both NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync technologies, whereas the Sony A80L does not support either.

What is the main difference in their audio systems?
The Sony A80L uses Acoustic Surface Audio+ that vibrates the screen for sound, with a 3.1 channel 50W system, while the LG C3 uses a 2.2 channel 40W setup with AI Sound Pro.

Do both TVs include voice assistant functionality?
Yes, both TVs support voice assistants including Alexa and Google Assistant, with voice-enabled remotes for hands-free control.

Are these TVs compatible with Apple AirPlay and HomeKit?
Yes, both the LG C3 and Sony A80L support Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit, allowing streaming and smart home integration with Apple devices.

Can I wall mount both of these TVs?
Yes, both models are VESA wall mount compatible, allowing for flexible installation options in home setups.

Is there a difference in the number of available screen sizes?
Yes, the LG C3 is available in 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, and 83″, while the Sony A80L is only offered in 55″, 65″, and 77″ sizes.

Which TV has a slimmer and lighter design?
The LG C3 is noticeably lighter and slimmer than the Sony A80L, making it more ideal for wall mounting and minimalist spaces.

What processors power these TVs?
The LG C3 is powered by the α9 Gen6 AI Processor, while the Sony A80L uses the Cognitive Processor XR for intelligent scene analysis and upscaling.

Can both TVs access the same streaming services?
Yes, both models support popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and more through their respective app stores.

Which TV is generally more affordable?
The LG C3 is generally more affordable than the Sony A80L at similar screen sizes, making it a better value option for many consumers.

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