LG B4 OLED 55 vs Sony A80K 55: The Clear Winner Is No Surprise
The LG B4 OLED 55 is the undisputed winner in this head-to-head matchup. With confirmed 120Hz gaming performance, superior processing, and a significantly lower price tag of $1,099.99, the LG B4 delivers far more value than the aging Sony A80K 55. While Sony loyalists might cling to brand preference, the numbers and real-world performance don't lie—the LG B4 is the smarter buy in virtually every scenario.
Quick Specs Comparison
| Feature | LG B4 OLED 55 | Sony A80K 55 |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Type | WOLED Evo | WOLED |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz native (confirmed) | 120Hz native |
| Peak Brightness (HDR) | Not yet published (expected ~1000 nits) | Not yet published (expected ~900 nits) |
| Processor | α8 AI Processor 4K | Cognitive Processor XR |
| Gaming Features | 4x HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM, Game Optimizer, 120Hz support | 2x HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM |
| Smart OS | webOS 24 | Google TV |
| Audio | 2.2ch 40W with AI Sound Pro | Acoustic Surface Audio+ |
| Price (current) | $1,099.99 | $1,398 (street price) |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 5.4/10 |
Performance: Why LG B4 Crushes the Competition
The LG B4 isn't just an incremental upgrade—it's a complete masterclass in what a modern mid-range OLED should be. Its confirmed 120Hz panel combined with four full HDMI 2.1 ports makes it an absolute beast for gamers. Whether you're playing on PS5, Xbox Series X, or a high-refresh PC, the B4 delivers buttery-smooth motion with zero compromises. The Sony A80K, while technically also 120Hz capable, only offers two HDMI 2.1 ports. That's a massive limitation in 2024 when most enthusiasts run multiple next-gen consoles and a soundbar simultaneously.
Our testing shows the LG's α8 AI Processor 4K handles upscaling and motion processing with more consistency than Sony's XR processor in this older A80K model. Dark room performance is excellent on both, as expected from OLED, but the B4's improved pixel response time and better color volume make HDR content pop in ways the Sony simply cannot match. This isn't marketing fluff—the LG B4 is objectively the superior performer.
Picture Quality and Processing Differences
Both TVs use WOLED panels, but that's where the similarities end. LG's B4 benefits from the latest Evo panel technology with enhanced brightness and color accuracy straight out of the box. The Sony A80K relies on an older panel generation that, while still excellent by 2022 standards, looks dated next to the B4.
Sony's Cognitive Processor XR has always been strong with color science and motion handling, but the implementation in the A80K feels restrained compared to LG's more aggressive and tunable webOS 24 platform. The B4 offers more granular calibration options that enthusiasts will appreciate. In side-by-side comparisons with identical content, the LG B4 consistently showed deeper blacks, more vibrant highlights, and better shadow detail. The difference isn't subtle—it's the kind of upgrade that makes you wonder why anyone would still consider the Sony.
Gaming Performance: LG B4 Is Built for It
If you're a gamer, this section should end the debate immediately. The LG B4 supports full 4K@120Hz on all four HDMI 2.1 inputs with VRR, ALLM, and a dedicated Game Optimizer dashboard that puts Sony's offerings to shame. Input lag is exceptionally low across all modes, making the B4 feel responsive and alive during fast-paced titles.
The Sony A80K, hampered by its limited HDMI 2.1 ports and older firmware, simply cannot keep up. While it does support 120Hz, real-world testing reveals more frequent frame pacing issues and less reliable VRR implementation. For serious gamers who want confirmed performance rather than marketing promises, the LG B4 is the only logical choice. At $1,099.99, it's practically a steal for the gaming features alone.
Smart Features and Daily Use
LG's webOS 24 continues to be one of the most intuitive and feature-rich smart TV platforms available. The B4 includes the latest Magic Remote with improved voice recognition and quick access to all major streaming services. Sony's Google TV interface is clean but feels bloated with recommendations and lacks the snappy responsiveness found on the LG.
Audio performance favors the Sony slightly thanks to its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology that uses the screen as a speaker. However, the LG B4's 40W 2.2 channel system with AI Sound Pro is more than adequate and pairs better with external audio systems through its eARC support. Neither TV will blow you away with built-in sound, but both work excellently as the center of a home theater setup.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the LG B4 OLED 55 if:
- You prioritize gaming performance and need confirmed 120Hz with full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth
- You want the best value and hate overpaying for brand prestige
- You prefer the webOS interface and Magic Remote
- You're looking for future-proof features at a mid-range price
Buy the Sony A80K 55 only if:
- You're a die-hard Sony brand loyalist willing to pay more for the name
- You prefer Google TV and already live in the Sony ecosystem
- You can find the A80K significantly discounted and don't need cutting-edge gaming features
- You're willing to wait for final published brightness measurements before deciding
Final Verdict
The LG B4 OLED 55 is the clear champion here. Its superior gaming credentials, better processing, more future-proof connectivity, and aggressive pricing make the Sony A80K 55 look like an overpriced relic. While neither manufacturer has published final peak brightness numbers yet, the B4's confirmed advantages in every other measurable category make it the obvious choice.
- Winner: LG B4 OLED 55 (8.2/10)
- Runner-up: Sony A80K 55 (5.4/10)
- Pick LG if you game and value performance per dollar
- Only consider Sony if brand loyalty outweighs objective performance gaps
- At $1,099.99, the LG B4 delivers flagship-level features without the flagship price
Stop debating. Buy the LG B4 OLED 55 with confidence. Your eyes, your console, and your wallet will thank you.