I tested LG's newest Mini-LED TV – is the QNED93 better than LG's OLED?

I tested LG's newest Mini-LED TV – is the QNED93 better than LG's OLED?

  • 22.03.2025 22:10
  • t3.com
  • Keywords: No

LG's QNED93 Mini-LED TV offers bright, vibrant images and impressive gaming features but struggles with backlighting issues and average sound quality. While it's a strong contender, its inability to match OLED performance keeps it from earning top marks, though it may shine more when prices drop in the future.

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Estimated market influence

LG

LG

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Analyst rating: Buy

The LG QNED93 is a top-tier TV that offers bright, vibrant images and impressive motion control, making it a strong competitor in the market. However, it faces some drawbacks like backlighting issues and average sound quality.

T3

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Analyst rating: N/A

T3 provided a verdict on the LG QNED93, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, which helps consumers make informed decisions.

Context

Analysis of LG QNED93 Mini-LED TV: Business Insights and Market Implications

Critical Facts and Data Points

  • TV Model: LG QNED93 (QNED92 in some regions)
  • Sizes Available:
    • 55-inch: £1,299
    • 65-inch: £1,799
    • 75-inch: £2,699
    • 85-inch: £3,799
  • Technology: LCD with Nanocell and Mini-LED backlighting
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh Rate: Up to 144Hz
  • HDR Support: HLG, HDR10, Dolby Vision
  • Game Features: Dolby Vision Gaming at 120Hz
  • Processor: Alpha 8 AI Processor 4K Gen 2 with quad-core CPU
  • Picture Quality:
    • Bright and vibrant images
    • High contrast and detail in most scenes except brightest
  • Sound Quality: Described as "humdrum"
  • Smart TV OS: webOS 25 (upgradable to version 30)
  • Connectivity: Home Hub for IoT, AirPlay 2

Business Insights

  • Positioning: The QNED93 is positioned as a premium product with advanced features, competing directly with LG's OLED TVs.
  • Pricing Strategy: High initial prices (especially for larger sizes) suggest targeting the premium market. Price reductions in six months could enhance its appeal.

Market Implications

  • Competitive Landscape:
    • Competing against OLED TVs from LG and other brands like Samsung (QLED) and Sony.
    • Mini-LED technology offers brightness and contrast, positioning it as a viable alternative to OLED.
  • Technological Advancements: The use of Mini-LED highlights LG's commitment to innovation, potentially capturing market share from OLED if price points align.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Strengths:
    • High brightness and vibrant images make it suitable for environments with ambient light.
    • Advanced gaming features (Dolby Vision Gaming) cater to the gaming community.
  • Weaknesses:
    • Sound quality is underwhelming, a critical factor for some consumers.
    • Slight backlighting issues in bright scenes.

Strategic Considerations

  • Long-term Strategy: LG's focus on Mini-LED technology could pay off as the tech matures and costs decrease. This could allow them to compete more effectively with OLED TVs.
  • Platform Strength: The webOS platform is a strength, offering a user-friendly interface and IoT integration.

Potential Market Impact

  • Consumer Perception: Despite its high rating, the QNED93's four-star verdict indicates it may not yet be seen as top-tier. Consumer perception could shift with price reductions.
  • Market Share: If successful, LG could gain market share in the premium TV segment, challenging OLED leaders.

Conclusion

The LG QNED93 represents a significant step for LG in the competitive TV market, offering cutting-edge technology and features. While it faces challenges from OLED TVs, its potential with price adjustments and technological advancements positions it as a strong contender.