UPDATE: New reviews confirm that the highly anticipated 2025 OLED TVs—the 48-inch LG C5 and 48-inch Samsung S90F—are now available for consumers. However, potential buyers are urged to consider an essential addition: a soundbar.
The What Hi-Fi? team has been rigorously testing these two models, revealing that while both TVs deliver impressive visuals, neither provides satisfactory audio quality. This finding comes at a crucial time as consumers prepare to invest in new home entertainment systems this summer.
In a side-by-side comparison, the LG C5 offers cooler tones and more controlled picture quality, making it a safe choice for viewers. In contrast, the Samsung S90F delivers brighter scenes with a warmer aesthetic that grabs attention but may overemphasize certain visuals. As the competition heats up in the small OLED TV market, the decision on which model to choose ultimately hinges on personal preference.
However, after extensive testing, the review team has one decisive recommendation: both TVs fall short in the audio department. The LG C5’s 40W speaker system lacks directionality and sounds flat, failing to enhance the experience during action-packed scenes. Meanwhile, the Samsung S90F, with its 60W system, provides some directional audio but remains underpowered—conversations can still be held comfortably even at maximum volume.
Both models feature AI-powered audio modes claiming to optimize sound quality, but users report that these settings only exacerbate the issue, leaving dialogue and high-frequency effects sounding thin and unsatisfactory.
As viewers gear up for movie nights, the importance of investing in a quality soundbar cannot be overstated. The Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is recommended as a top choice for its price and performance, frequently appearing in best soundbar lists. For those on a tighter budget, the Sony HT-SF150 remains a solid entry-level option that significantly outperforms the built-in audio systems.
With the 2025 OLED TV models hitting the market, it’s clear that while stunning picture quality is now a given, audio performance still requires extra investment for a true home cinema experience.
For more updates on the latest technology trends and reviews, stay tuned to What Hi-Fi?.
