LG B5 OLED Review: Is LG’s Cheapest OLED TV Worth Buying?

Do you want a real OLED TV without paying flagship prices? The LG B5 OLED is LG’s entry level OLED for 2025. It gives you perfect blacks, rich colors, and great gaming features for a lot less money than the C5 or G5.

It does have weak spots, though. Brightness is average, and the speakers are basic. In this review, I go through what the B5 does well, where it falls short, and who should buy it. By the end, you will know if this TV fits your room and your budget.

In a Nutshell

Short on time? Here is the quick version of this LG B5 OLED review.

1. Picture quality is the main reason to buy it. The B5 uses self lit OLED pixels, so it shows true black and endless contrast. Colors look rich and accurate. In testing it covered about 99.5% of the UHDA P3 color space.
2. Gaming is a big strength. You get four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K at 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming. TechRadar measured input lag at only 9.1 milliseconds, which feels instant.
3. Brightness is the biggest weakness. Peak HDR brightness reached about 668 nits, and the screen reflects a lot of light. The B5 looks best in a dim or dark room.
4. The built in sound is only average. It has a 2.0 channel, 20W speaker system with Dolby Atmos. Dialogue is clear, but bass is weak. A soundbar makes a big difference.
5. webOS 25 is smooth and simple to use. It adds AI Search, AI Concierge, and AI Voice ID profiles. All the major streaming apps are there.
6. It is a strong value when it is on sale. The B5 is very close to the older B4. It makes the most sense when you can get it at a good discount.

LG B5 OLED: Quick Overview

Last update on 2026-10-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The LG B5 OLED is the cheapest model in LG’s 2025 OLED lineup. It sits below the C5, the G5, and the wireless M5. It replaced the popular LG B4, which many reviewers called one of the best value TVs of 2024.

The B5 uses a standard WOLED panel. It does not get the brighter “evo” panel found in the C5, or the new Primary RGB Tandem panel in the G5. That one choice explains most of the gap in brightness between these models.

Inside, the TV runs on the Alpha 8 AI Processor Gen2. This chip handles AI Super Upscaling, AI Picture Pro, and AI Sound Pro. It does a good job cleaning up HD streams and cable TV.

Here are the key specs you should know:

• Panel and resolution: WOLED panel with a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels.
• Refresh rate: The panel refreshes at up to 120Hz for smooth motion and gaming.
• HDR formats: It supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, but not HDR10+.
• Ports and wireless: You get four HDMI 2.1 ports, two USB ports, and WiFi 6E.
• Audio: A 2.0 channel, 20W speaker system with Dolby Atmos. There is no DTS support.

The big new features come from software. webOS 25 brings AI tools, a new AI Magic Remote in the US, and voice based user profiles. Hardware wise, the B5 is very close to the B4. The picture is still excellent for the money, though.

Price, Sizes, and Release Date

LG launched the B5 in the US around July and August 2025. It comes in five sizes, so it fits most rooms, from a small bedroom to a big home theater.

These were the US launch prices:

• 48 inch: This size launched at $899.99 and suits bedrooms or a desk.
• 55 inch: This size launched at $1,499.99 and is a popular living room pick.
• 65 inch: This size launched at $1,999.99 and is the sweet spot for most families.
• 77 inch: This size launched at $2,999.99 for larger rooms.
• 83 inch: This size launched at $4,499.99 for a true cinema feel.

Prices have dropped a lot since launch. LG’s own site has listed the 65 inch model at about $1,499.99. Big sales like Black Friday often push prices even lower. Some Reddit users have spotted the 55 inch for well under $1,000.

So here is my simple advice. Never pay full launch price for the B5. This TV makes sense when you buy it on sale.

You should also watch the price of the LG C5. In the past, the C5 sometimes dropped close to the B5’s price. When that happens, the C5 is the smarter buy because it is much brighter.

LG has now launched the B6 for 2026. That usually means older stock gets cheaper. This could be a great time to grab a B5 deal.

Design and Build Quality

The B5 is an entry level TV, but it does not look cheap. LG gave it a clean, slim look that blends into most living rooms.

The TV stands on two metal feet. They feel solid and heavy. Once you attach them, the TV stays very steady even though it is light. You can also mount it on the wall with a standard VESA bracket.

The back panel has a marble style finish. Most people will never see it, but it adds a premium touch. The B5 is about as deep as the C5. It does not have the flat, gallery style design of the G5, which is made to sit flush on a wall.

The feet sit near the ends of the TV. So make sure your TV stand is wide enough before you buy. Measure your furniture first, especially for the 65 inch and 77 inch models.

US buyers get LG’s new AI Magic Remote. It is smaller and sleeker than older Magic Remotes. It still has the point and click pointer, which makes typing and scrolling easy. LG removed some buttons and added a dedicated AI button for voice search and the AI assistant.

The remote also has built in microphones. You can use LG’s own voice tools or Amazon Alexa, which is built into the TV.

Overall, the build feels well made. TechRadar gave the design 4 out of 5, which is a fair score for a TV at this price.

Top 3 Alternative for LG B5 OLED

The B5 is a great TV, but it is not the right pick for everyone. Here are three strong alternatives to look at before you buy.

LG C5 OLED

Last update on 2026-10-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The LG C5 is the step up model in LG’s 2025 lineup. It uses the brighter OLED evo panel and hit about 1,180 nits in TechRadar’s tests. That is almost double the B5’s peak brightness.

It also supports 144Hz for PC gaming, and it has a faster processor. When the price gap is small, the C5 is the better value.

Samsung S90F OLED

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The Samsung S90F is a strong rival from Samsung. It is brighter than the B5 and supports 144Hz for gaming. It also supports HDR10+.

There is one catch. It does not support Dolby Vision, and it runs Samsung’s Tizen system. Pick it if you want more punch in a brighter room.

Sony Bravia 8 II

Last update on 2026-10-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Sony Bravia 8 II is a premium QD OLED TV. It offers very bright, vivid colors and some of the best picture processing you can buy. It runs Google TV.

It costs much more than the B5. But if movies are your top priority and your budget is flexible, it is a big upgrade.

Picture Quality

Picture quality is where the B5 really shines. Every pixel makes its own light and can turn off completely. That gives you perfect black levels and endless contrast.

Dark movies look amazing in a dim room. TechRadar tested scenes from The Batman, and the dark areas looked deep with excellent shadow detail. There was some minor black crush in very dark scenes in Filmmaker Mode, but overall the results were very good.

Textures look crisp and lifelike. Skin tones look natural. You can see fine details like facial hair and skin pores. Reviewers described the image as having a 3D like level of crispness.

Upscaling is also solid. The Alpha 8 Gen2 chip makes HD streams look sharper and adds a bit more contrast. Old DVDs improve too, but they will not look like true 4K.

Motion handling is smooth. For movies, you can turn on Cinematic Movement to cut down judder in slow camera pans. For sports, Standard Mode with Natural motion gives smooth action without ghosting around the ball.

Viewing angles are a classic OLED strength. The picture stays accurate even when you sit off to the side. That is great news for big families and wide sofas.

Which picture mode should you use? These two work best:

• Filmmaker Mode: This mode gives the most accurate image and is best for dark movies at night.
• Cinema Mode: This mode looks a bit brighter, which helps in brighter scenes and rooms.

TechRadar scored the B5 4.5 out of 5 for picture quality. That is impressive for LG’s cheapest OLED.

Brightness and Bright Room Performance

Brightness is the B5’s biggest weak spot. You should know this before you buy.

TechRadar measured 668 nits of peak HDR brightness in Cinema Mode on a 10% window. That is almost the same as the older B4. The C5, by comparison, hit about 1,180 nits in the same type of test.

Full screen brightness is also low. The B5 reached only 131 nits in Cinema Mode and 172 nits in Standard Mode on a full white screen. This matters for bright scenes like snowy landscapes or hockey games.

The screen is also quite reflective. In a room with lots of daylight or overhead lights, you will see glare. Dark movies become hard to watch with the lights on.

So who is the B5 good for? It works best for people who:

• Watch at night: The B5 looks stunning with dim lights or with the lights off.
• Can control the light: Curtains or blinds help a lot in a room with big windows.
• Love movies and games: Deep blacks matter more to these viewers than raw brightness.

If your living room is very bright, look at the C5, the Samsung S90F, or a good Mini LED TV. They handle glare and daylight much better.

Do not let this scare you away, though. For many homes, 668 nits is plenty. Highlights still pop because they sit right next to perfect black. Many owners say the TV looks brighter in person than the numbers suggest.

HDR and Color Performance

The B5 supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. Dolby Vision is a big plus because Netflix, Disney Plus, and Apple TV all use it for lots of shows and movies.

It does not support HDR10+. Some Prime Video content uses this format. You will still get good HDR from those titles, just not the extra HDR10+ data.

Color performance is excellent. In testing, the B5 covered 99.5% of UHDA P3 and 74.85% of BT.2020. In simple terms, colors look vivid but still accurate.

TechRadar watched Elemental in Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode. The orange and purple glow in the glass vase scene looked rich and punchy. In Wicked, pink flowers and green skin tones looked true to life with lots of depth.

The B5 also handles bright highlights well for its class. With content mastered at 600 or 1,000 nits, it gently rolls off near its peak. This keeps some detail in bright clouds and lamps instead of turning them into flat white blobs.

Contrast feels strong too. Scenes with dark backgrounds and bright torches or lamps have real depth. The range is not as wide as on brighter OLEDs, but it is still very impressive.

Black and white films also look great. The B5 shows a smooth range of grays between deep shadows and bright highlights.

If you watch a lot of HDR movies at night, the B5 delivers a cinema like experience at a fair price.

Gaming Performance

Gaming is one of the best reasons to buy the B5. It scored a perfect 5 out of 5 for gaming in TechRadar’s review.

All four HDMI ports are HDMI 2.1. That means you can plug in a PS5, an Xbox Series X, and a gaming PC at the same time. Every port supports 4K at 120Hz.

You also get a full set of gaming features:

• VRR support: It works with AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G SYNC Compatible to stop screen tearing.
• ALLM: The TV switches to game mode on its own when you start your console.
• HGiG: This gives you accurate HDR tone mapping in supported games.
• Dolby Vision gaming: This makes supported Xbox games look richer and more detailed.

Input lag is super low. TechRadar measured 9.1 milliseconds with Boost mode on. Like every OLED, the B5 also has near instant pixel response, so motion looks very clear.

The Game Optimizer menu puts all your game settings in one place. You can adjust black levels, input lag, and VRR without digging through menus.

There is one small quirk for Xbox owners. With Dolby Vision gaming turned on, you may not be able to change the input delay setting. The fix is simple. Turn off Dolby Vision on the Xbox, set Boost mode, then turn Dolby Vision back on.

The main limit is the 120Hz cap. Console gamers will not notice, because consoles top out at 120Hz. PC gamers who want 144Hz should look at the C5 instead.

Smart TV Features and webOS 25

The B5 runs webOS 25, LG’s latest smart TV system for 2025 models. It is fast, simple, and easy for the whole family to use.

The home screen uses Quick Cards. These group your apps into sections like Games, Sports, and Music. The Quick Menu lets you change settings without leaving your show.

All the big streaming apps are here. You get Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, YouTube, Max, Apple TV, and more. LG Channels also offers free live TV.

New AI features are the headline this year:

• AI Search: You can search for shows using normal, everyday questions.
• AI Concierge: It suggests content based on what you watch and search for.
• AI Voice ID: It knows who is talking and opens that person’s profile.
• AI Picture Wizard and AI Sound Wizard: These short quizzes help you set the picture and sound you like.

Profiles are a nice touch for shared homes. Each person gets their own home screen and recommendations.

The TV also works with Alexa, Apple AirPlay, and Google Cast style casting, so it fits easily into most smart homes. Menus felt smooth and quick in testing.

LG also promises webOS upgrades for several years through its webOS Re:New program. That helps the TV stay fresh longer.

There is one downside. The home screen shows ads and promoted content. It is not a dealbreaker, but some users find it a little annoying.

Sound Quality

The B5’s speakers are fine for daily TV, but they do not match the amazing picture.

It uses a 2.0 channel, 20W speaker system. It supports Dolby Atmos, but it does not support DTS. That is true for all 2025 LG TVs, so keep it in mind if you own DTS movie discs.

The best sound mode is AI Sound Pro. It studies what is on screen and adjusts the audio. It also creates a virtual 9.1.2 surround effect. This adds width and makes dialogue clear.

TechRadar tested the Batmobile chase in The Batman. Tire screeches and gunfire were well placed and closely linked to the action. But the deep rumble of the engine was missing. Bass is the weak point.

For news, sitcoms, and YouTube, the speakers are perfectly okay. Many owners say the sound is louder and clearer than they expected.

For movies, sports, and games, a soundbar is a must. LG’s WOW Orchestra feature lets the TV speakers work together with a compatible LG soundbar. That gives you a bigger and punchier sound.

You also get eARC on one HDMI port. This lets you send Dolby Atmos audio to a soundbar or AV receiver.

My tip is simple. Save a little money for a soundbar. Even a mid priced model will make the B5 feel like a true home theater.

LG B5 vs LG B4 and LG C5

Should you pick the B5, the older B4, or the step up C5? This choice confuses many buyers, so here is a clear breakdown.

LG B5 vs LG B4: These two TVs are almost the same. They have similar panels, similar brightness, and the same main gaming features. The biggest change is webOS 25 with its new AI tools. The B5 also drops DTS support.

So if you find a B4 at a much lower price, buy the B4. If you already own a B4, there is no reason to upgrade.

LG B5 vs LG C5: This is a bigger jump. The C5 uses a brighter OLED evo panel and reaches about 1,180 nits. The B5 reaches about 668 nits. The C5 also has a stronger processor and supports 144Hz for PC gaming.

Here is how the two compare:

• Brightness: The C5 is much brighter and handles daylight better.
• Refresh rate: The C5 goes up to 144Hz, while the B5 stops at 120Hz.
• Gaming and HDMI: Both have four HDMI 2.1 ports with VRR and ALLM.
• Smart TV: Both run webOS 25 with the same AI features.
• Price: The B5 is usually cheaper, sometimes by a few hundred dollars.

My rule of thumb is this. If the C5 costs only $100 to $200 more, buy the C5. If the gap is bigger, the B5 gives you most of the OLED magic for less.

There is also the new LG B6 for 2026. Early side by side tests show the B5 still holds up very well, so a discounted B5 stays a smart buy.

Pros and Cons

Every TV has its strengths and weak spots. The B5 is no different. Here is a clear and honest list to help you decide.

The good news is that the B5 gets the most important things right. Picture quality, gaming, and the smart system are all excellent for an entry level OLED.

Pros

• Stunning OLED picture: You get perfect blacks, endless contrast, and wide viewing angles that look great from any seat.
• Accurate, vivid colors: It covers 99.5% of UHDA P3, so movies look rich and true to life.
• Excellent gaming features: Four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K at 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming cover every console.
• Very low input lag: About 9.1 milliseconds makes games feel fast and responsive.
• Smooth smart system: webOS 25 is simple to use and adds helpful AI search and profiles.
• Premium feel: Solid metal feet and a sleek design make it look more expensive than it is.
• Five size options: From 48 inches to 83 inches, there is a size for almost every room.

The weak points are mostly about brightness and audio. These matter more in some homes than others.

Cons

• Average brightness: About 668 nits peak is low next to the C5 and other step up OLEDs.
• Reflective screen: Glare can be a problem in bright rooms with lots of windows.
• Basic speakers: The 20W system has weak bass, so you will likely want a soundbar.
• No HDR10+ or DTS: Some Prime Video titles and DTS movie discs lose their extra formats.
• Small upgrade over the B4: It changes very little from last year’s model apart from software.
• 120Hz limit: PC gamers who want 144Hz need to look at the C5.

Who Should Buy the LG B5 OLED?

The B5 is not for everyone. But for the right buyer, it is one of the best value TVs you can get. Here is who it fits best.

Movie lovers who watch at night will love the B5. In a dim room, the perfect blacks and rich colors look stunning. Dolby Vision movies feel almost like a cinema.

Console gamers are a perfect match too. You get four HDMI 2.1 ports, VRR, ALLM, and very low input lag. The 120Hz limit does not matter for PS5 or Xbox Series X.

First time OLED buyers should look closely at the B5. It gives you the core OLED experience without the high price of the C5 or G5. It is a great way to upgrade from an old LED TV.

Bedroom and smaller room setups also suit the B5 well. The 48 inch model is great for a bedroom or a gaming desk.

Now, who should skip it?

• Bright room viewers: If your room gets lots of sunlight, a brighter C5 or Mini LED TV will look better.
• B4 owners: The B5 adds almost nothing over the B4, so upgrading makes no sense.
• Serious PC gamers: If you want 144Hz, the C5 or Samsung S90F is a better pick.
• People who want great built in sound: Plan for a soundbar, or look at another option.

Ask yourself one simple question. Do I mostly watch in a dim room? If the answer is yes, the B5 is very likely a great fit for you.

Final Verdict

The LG B5 OLED is a great entry level OLED TV. It delivers the things people love about OLED: perfect blacks, rich contrast, and lifelike colors. It also packs a full set of gaming features that many pricier TVs still lack.

Its weak spots are clear. Brightness is only average, and the screen reflects light. The speakers sound thin, so a soundbar is a smart add on. It also changes very little from the older B4.

Still, the overall package is excellent. Review sites gave it high marks for picture quality, gaming, and smart features. TechRadar called it a TV that offers serious bang for your buck, and I agree.

So here is my final advice:

• Buy the B5 on sale: It offers its best value when you pay well below launch price.
• Check the C5 price first: If the C5 costs only a little more, the brighter C5 is worth it.
• Pick it for dim rooms: The B5 looks its best at night or in rooms where you control the light.
• Add a soundbar: A good soundbar turns this TV into a real home theater.

If you want a true OLED for movies and gaming without spending a fortune, the LG B5 is an easy TV to recommend. Find a good deal, dim the lights, and enjoy the show.

FAQs

Here are quick answers to the most common questions about the LG B5 OLED.

Is the LG B5 OLED good for gaming?

Yes, it is excellent for gaming. It has four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K at 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming. Input lag is about 9.1 milliseconds, which feels instant.

How bright is the LG B5 OLED?

The B5 reaches about 668 nits of peak HDR brightness in testing. That is fine for dim rooms, but it is lower than the C5. It struggles more in very bright rooms.

What is the difference between the LG B5 and C5?

The C5 has a brighter OLED evo panel, a stronger processor, and 144Hz support. The B5 is cheaper and caps at 120Hz. Both run webOS 25 and have four HDMI 2.1 ports.

Is the LG B5 better than the LG B4?

Not by much. The two TVs have very similar picture quality and brightness. The B5 mainly adds webOS 25 AI features. If the B4 is cheaper, it is the better deal.

Does the LG B5 support Dolby Vision?

Yes. It supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. It also supports Dolby Vision gaming. It does not support HDR10+.

Do I need a soundbar with the LG B5?

It is a good idea. The 20W speakers sound clear but lack bass. A soundbar adds deeper bass and fuller sound. LG soundbars also work with the TV’s WOW Orchestra feature.

What sizes does the LG B5 come in?

The B5 comes in 48, 55, 65, 77, and 83 inch sizes. The 65 inch model is the most popular choice for living rooms.

Will the LG B5 OLED get burn in?

Burn in is possible on any OLED, but it is rare with normal use. LG adds tools like pixel refresh and logo dimming to lower the risk. Mixing up your content helps a lot.