The LG C2 OLED evo 4K TV is one of the best televisions you can buy in 2022. The picture quality is excellent as usual, the user interface adds more features, and feels more responsive. The C2 is also arguably the best choice for gamers — it now comes in a new 42-inch version that's perfect for your gaming den. More importantly, LG's pricing for the C2 is very competitive compared to its main rivals.

So my initial plan was to find out how the new 42-inch model fares as a PC monitor. But alas, LG only had the 48-inch version available for review. Nevertheless, I still tried the slightly larger 48-inch C2 on my desk. It's not quite as ideal, and not just because of the size. The 48-inch C2 has a central TV stand that takes up quite a bit of desk space, compared to the 42-inch (see photo above) that has two slim feet with a smaller footprint. Of course, you'll also need a powerful PC to make full use of the C2 as a monitor. An Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 Series graphics card is practically a must if you intend to play games at the TV's native 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.

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As a monitor, the 48-inch C2 is large to say the least. Moving around the desktop with my mouse required a bit more effort. But the C2 definitely looked better than most monitors, except maybe the Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED. My desktop never seemed more vibrant. However, I found myself pixel peeping a lot more while streaming TV shows because of how close I sat. Netflix's Stranger Things, for example, seemed more grainy, though Disney's Ms Marvel still appeared crisp and slick. Games looked great, especially with an Xbox Series X|S that supports Dolby Vision in games. Ori and the Will of the Wisps, for example, was spectacular on the C2 at 4K 60fps on an Xbox Series S. And you can even push this up to 4K 120fps with an Xbox Series X.

Thanks to a new processor, the new C2 offers a slightly more refined picture than last year's C1. But in darker scenes, some shadow details still go missing. Note that LG has said that the 42- and 48-inch C2 isn't as bright as the 55-inch and larger versions. I think the brightness is fine for an OLED TV — you aren't going to get the wince-inducing brightness of mini-LED TVs anyway. Instead, you'll get deep blacks and a lack of blooming. The audio is decent for a TV, but even an entry-level soundbar like LG's S65Q will make a difference. The revamped webOS 22 interface feels more responsive, and adds new features like individual user profiles and limits on screen time. The C2 comes with the Magic Remote control that has served LG well over the years. It has motion sensing so you can use it like a pointer.

The LG C2 starts at S$2,199 for the 42-inch model from the official LG store, but know that you may be able to bargain your way to lower prices at retail outlets. However, last year's C1 (if you can find one) remains a very capable option for those looking to maximise their budget. But if you're eyeing the 42-inch model to pair with your game console, you have to get the C2 — and you won't regret it. It's available now from Shopee, Lazada, and Amazon SG.

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Note: Review unit provided by LG.