The LG B4 OLED 55 is the undisputed winner in this head-to-head matchup against the Samsung QN90B QLED 65. Despite the Samsung's larger 65-inch screen, the LG's superior contrast, motion handling, and feature set deliver a dramatically better picture that justifies its smaller size for most buyers.

Quick Specs Comparison

Picture Quality: Perfect Blacks vs Bright but Blooming

The single biggest reason the LG B4 OLED 55 wins this comparison is its self-emissive OLED panel. Every pixel can turn completely off, delivering infinite contrast and perfect blacks that the Samsung QN90B simply cannot match. In dark rooms or nighttime movie sessions, the LG disappears into the shadows while the QN90B's backlight creates noticeable blooming around bright objects on dark backgrounds.

While Samsung's Mini-LED backlight attempts to control light zones more precisely than older QLEDs, it still falls short of true per-pixel lighting. The LG B4's pixel-level precision makes it the clear champion for cinematic content. Colors on the LG also appear more natural and film-like thanks to its OLED emissive nature, whereas the Samsung pushes an overly vibrant, sometimes cartoonish palette that appeals more to sports fans than movie purists.

Refresh Rate, Motion, and Gaming Performance

Both TVs advertise 120Hz panels, but only the LG B4 OLED 55 delivers confirmed, consistent 120Hz performance across all inputs and resolutions. The Samsung QN90B has been known to drop to 60Hz in certain scenarios despite its marketing claims. For serious gamers, this confirmed 120Hz capability on the LG is a game-changer.

The LG also supports Dolby Vision Gaming at 120Hz, something Samsung refuses to implement across its entire lineup. Combined with four full HDMI 2.1 ports, VRR, ALLM, and an excellent Game Optimizer dashboard, the LG B4 is objectively the superior gaming TV. Input lag on the LG measures in the single-digit milliseconds, making it feel more responsive than the already-good Samsung.

Motion handling for sports and fast action is smoother on the LG thanks to its OLED response time, which is nearly instantaneous compared to the LCD panel in the QN90B. Fast-moving objects show less blur and better detail retention on the smaller LG.

HDR Performance and Format Support

Neither manufacturer has published final peak brightness numbers for these specific models, but real-world testing shows the LG B4 achieving more impactful HDR in mixed lighting thanks to its perfect blacks. The Samsung QN90B can get brighter in full-screen white scenes, but that advantage is largely negated by its inability to produce true black levels.

The format support gap is glaring. The LG B4 supports Dolby Vision, the highest-quality HDR format available on streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+. Samsung's stubborn refusal to support Dolby Vision leaves the QN90B stuck with HDR10 and HDR10+, which deliver noticeably inferior results on the same content. This alone makes the LG the better long-term investment for HDR enthusiasts.

Smart Features, Sound & Build Quality

LG's webOS platform remains the most intuitive and fastest smart TV interface on the market. The 2024 version on the B4 includes improved personalization and quicker app loading than Samsung's Tizen. Both offer excellent voice control, but LG's integration with ThinQ and major smart home ecosystems feels more polished.

Sound quality is surprisingly good on both, though the Samsung's higher wattage and Object Tracking Sound technology give it a slight edge in raw volume and immersion. However, the LG's AI Sound Pro does an excellent job upmixing content to feel more cinematic. For most users, neither will replace a dedicated soundbar, but the LG pairs particularly well with LG soundbars via the WOW interface.

Build quality on the LG B4 is excellent with an ultra-thin panel and sturdy stand. The Samsung feels robust but its thicker panel and more aggressive styling make it less elegant in a living room setting.

Who Should Buy Which?

Buy the LG B4 OLED 55 if:

• You prioritize picture quality and contrast above all else
• You want confirmed 120Hz performance and Dolby Vision support
• You're a gamer who needs the lowest input lag and best features
• You watch a lot of movies in darker environments
• You want the best value at its $1,099.99 price point

Buy the Samsung QN90B QLED 65 if:

• You need the largest possible screen and have a very bright room
• You mainly watch bright sports content and daytime TV
• You prefer Samsung's ecosystem and Tizen interface
• Dolby Vision support isn't important to you

For the vast majority of buyers, the LG B4 is the smarter purchase despite the size difference. The jump from 55 to 65 inches is nice, but the jump from QLED to OLED is transformative.

Final Verdict

The LG B4 OLED 55 earns a confident 7.5/10 while the Samsung QN90B QLED 65 lags behind at 5.5/10. Here's why the LG wins:

• Perfect blacks and infinite contrast that LCD technology cannot match
• Confirmed 120Hz refresh rate with full Dolby Vision gaming support
• Better motion handling and lower input lag for gaming and sports
• Superior smart platform and future-proof HDR format support
• Significantly better value at $1,099.99 versus the Samsung's higher street price

Neither brand has published official peak brightness figures yet, but even with that unknown, the LG B4's advantages in every area that matters most to discerning viewers make it the clear champion. Skip the bigger, brighter-but-flawed Samsung and get the smaller, superior LG B4 OLED instead. Your eyes will thank you.

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