When researching a new TV, you quickly stumble across the keywords “NanoCell” and “QLED”, which are model series from LG and Samsung.
The question which series is better is rightly raised. We explain which series is suitable for your needs.
LG NanoCell and Samsung QLED
compared
Which TV is better?
- 120 Hz
- Viewing angle
- Brightness
- Low input lag
- Dolby Cinema
- HDMI 2.1
- Contrast ratio
- Black level
- Poor local dimming
- 120 Hz
- Deep Black
- Full Array Local Dimming
- Low input lag
- HDR10+
- No DTS
- Viewing angle
LG SM9000 vs Samsung Q70R
To give you a practical comparison between the NanoCell and QLED technology, we compare two equal representatives of these series with each other. The Samsung Q70R and the LG SM9000 will be the exact ones. In comparison, you’ll find that the technologies are fundamentally different.
Basically, Samsung QLED TVs always have a VA panel. This means that the blacks are very deep and brightness and contrast are sufficient for HDR content. Only the viewing angle is limited, so colors slightly lose their luminosity when viewed at an angle and get a gray haze. However, when you’re watching QLED TVs, you’ll notice that they’re extremely saturated and colorful.
LG NanoCell TVs, on the other hand, use a whole different technology. IPS panels with different basic characteristics are used here. Here the viewing angle is much wider, but the blacks are not as deep and uniform. Particularly in very dark rooms, a dark gray stitch is noticeable on the screen due to the backlighting. On the other hand, IPS panels can handle reflections very well and have sufficient brightness to fight against many light sources in the room. On the other hand, the display of HDR details is rather difficult. However, some high-quality NanoCell TVs have additional Full Array Local Dimming to increase contrast. These properties make them very suitable for very bright rooms.
Detailed facts: LG NanoCell or Samsung QLED
Comparison winner
| |
LG SM9000 The LG SM9000 is a NanoCell television, which is especially for gaming a very good choice. Thanks to HDMI 2.1 it is future-proof, as only the next gaming generation will benefit from it. Furthermore, because of its IPS panel, it is a good option for movies, series or sports in bright rooms. The viewing angle is also very wide because of the panel. Despite Full Array Local Dimming, dark tones and performance in poorly lit rooms is not its strength. | Samsung Q70R The Samsung Q70R has a VA panel, which makes its core characteristics fundamentally different compared to the SM9000. This makes it less bright and less reflective, making it a good choice for dark rooms with few light sources. Because of Full Array Local Dimming its black level is very low. It is also extremely suitable for gaming, but it doesn't have HDMI 2.1. |
| Panel type | IPS Panel | VA Panel |
|---|---|---|
| Colour depth | 10 Bit | 10 Bit |
| Contrast ratio | 1000 :1 | 8100 :1 |
| Local Dimming | Full Array Local Dimming | Full Array Local Dimming |
| Frequency | 120 Hz | 120 Hz |
| VRR | HDMI 2.1 | FreeSync |
| Operating system | webOS 4.6 | Tizen 5.0 |
| Response Time | < 5 ms | < 4 ms |
| Input Lag | < 14 ms | < 15 ms |
| HDR10+ | ||
| Dolby Vision | ||
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| DTS | ||
| HDMI 2.1 | ||
| Average brightness | 1.45-times better | |
| Maximum brightness | 1.39-times better | |
| Reflections | less reflections |
Comparison winner
| |
LG SM9000 | Samsung Q70R |
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Our conclusion: NanoCell or QLED?
The comparison of the two TVs above is not representative of the entire NanoCell or QLED lineup, but gives a good overview.
Basically it can be said that NanoCell TVs are better for bright rooms because of their IPS panels. This gives them higher brightness, better handling of reflections and a wider viewing angle. Unfortunately, their black level is rather weak and has an ever so slight grey tint.
QLED TVs can compete with the top brightness of NanoCell TVs, but use VA panels. This means a narrower viewing angle, but much better and deeper black. The contrast of VA panels is also higher. This makes them more suitable for very dark rooms with few light sources.
