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LG NanoCell vs. Samsung OLED vs. Samsung Crystal UHD (Ultimate TV Comparison)

LG NanoCell vs. Samsung OLED vs. Samsung Crystal UHD (Ultimate TV Comparison)

NanoCell, OLED, UHD: It seems that smart TVs get more and more complicated every year. You reasonably want the best bang for your buck––and that includes quality picture, sound, and resolution. However, if you don’t know what each of these things means and their benefits, it can only add to your confusion.

The following is a quick guide for deciding between an LG NanoCell, Samsung OLED, and a Samsung Crystal UHD TV.

LG NanoCell vs. Samsung OLED vs. Samsung Crystal UHD

Before getting into specifics, here’s what you can expect from these different TVs:

TVsPixelsColorPriceBurn-InLifespanLight
Samsung OLEDEach pixel can transform into millions of colors.Deep contrast, the “blackest black” on today’s marketOne of the most expensive TVs available  Risks burn-in if the screen stays on static image for too long30,000 hours (or 3 hours a day for 27 years)Each pixel lights up on its own
 Samsung Crystal UHDPixels rely on combinations of red, green, and blue.Vivid colors, dark colors aren’t so greatMid-range priceMinimal burn-in  Between 40,000 to 10,000 hours (four to 10 years, depending on usage)Uses a backlight comprising of LED lights
LG NanoCellPixels rely on combinations of red, green, and blue.Great image quality, wide array of colorsMid-range priceMinimal burn-in40,000 to 60,000 hours (six to eight years)Uses a backlight that adjusts based on what you’re watching

At first glance, the main difference between these TVs is the price. While OLED TVs consistently top Consumer Reports’ reviews, they are undoubtedly expensive. Consider the following: a 65-inch Samsung OLED TV costs about $900, while a 65-inch Samsung Crystal UHD costs around $500.

Upon further examination, you’ll also notice these stark differences:

Each TV Uses Different Technologies

Every TV, even decades-old ones, uses pixels. The more pixels a screen has, the better the resolution. Standard pixels (like the ones used by LED screens) use a combination of red, blue, and green to create millions of color combinations.

LED screens rely on a single backlight to illuminate these pixels. It’s worth mentioning that the Samsung Crystal UHD, at its core, is a high-end LED screen. Now, consider the following:

  • Samsung OLED TVs don’t rely on pixel color combinations; each pixel can transform into millions of colors. These TVs don’t rely on backlights, either. Each pixel lights up, creating a stunning state-of-the-art resolution.
  • LG NanoCell TVs use a filter layer that sits on top of the screen. This filter absorbs light waves and, in turn, improves color depths. Like standard TVs, these devices also rely on red, blue, and green pixel color combinations.

The TVs Deliver Different Color Intensities

Here, Samsung OLED TVs come out on top. Because each pixel emits its own color and light, it creates stunning colors and resolutions. It’s also worth mentioning that “glare” doesn’t affect OLED TVs like other models. This means you don’t have to try a million different locations to find the right one for your TV.

It’s worth mentioning LG NanoCell TVs and the Samsung Crystal UHD aren’t too far behind. While these TVs don’t respond to glare as well as OLED TVs, their color schemes are almost as brilliant.

OLED TVs Risk “Burn-In”

Despite Samsung OLED TVs’ breathtaking pictures, these devices aren’t perfect. They actually run the risk of “burn-in.” This is when a static image remains on the TV for too long, causing the picture’s outline to “burn into” the screen. If you purchase this TV, you can avoid burn-in by having your TV enter “sleep mode” after a certain period or having a screensaver play when it’s not in use.

Because Samsung Crystal UHD and LG NanoCell TVs rely on different technologies, they do not run the risk of burn-in. You can have your TV on the same picture for hours at a time and not have the image burn into your screen.

NanoCell, OLED, and UHV: Similarities

Aside from their hardware, picture, and resolution, these TVs get the job done. They let users watch live TV, stream their favorite shows, and mirror third-party devices, like smartphones.

Regardless of what TV you purchase, you can expect:

  • Compatibility with smart home assistants. Depending on what specific model you purchase, each of these TVs works with Google Home and Alexas. So, you can use voice-activated commands to select your favorite programs.
  • HDMI ports. Want to connect your video game console to the big screen? No problem. You can also connect DVD players, computers, and other hardware. You can also purchase an adapter to use the HDMI port as an ethernet port.
  • Artificial intelligence (AI). Each TV adjusts its sound and picture quality based on what you’re watching, so you don’t have to adjust the settings every time you watch something new.

A Final Word

You really can’t go wrong with any of these TVs. However, when considering which one suits your needs, consider your budget and viewing habits.