When the new G5 OLED TV was unveiled at CES 2025, excitement was high. Promising a next-level screen with a new panel type, it aimed to surpass previous models like the G3 and G4.
After spending a couple of weeks with the G5, the picture quality is truly stunning. Colors pop in a lifelike way, blacks are deep and rich, and there’s a sense of depth that makes movies and shows almost three-dimensional. Gaming is also excellent, with fast response times and smooth motion. This is a phenomenal all-around display.
But the real frustration comes with the redesigned Magic Remote.
The old remote was long, slightly curved, and fit comfortably in the hand. The new version is more rectangular. While it looks modern, it doesn’t feel as ergonomic or comfortable for extended use.
Some features remain, like the pointer function, but it’s often slower than using the directional arrows. The center select button now feels softer and less precise compared to the reassuring click of the previous version.
New additions include:
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A button for the AI assistant, intended to respond to voice commands. In practice, it can be unreliable or misinterpret queries.
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A ThinQ smart home button for controlling compatible devices, which may be redundant for those already using other smart home apps.
Equally frustrating is the removal of some basic buttons:
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No input button: Switching between devices now requires navigating a menu instead of pressing a single button.
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No mute button: Muting requires holding the volume button, which is slower than a dedicated mute button.
Additionally, the remote still uses AAA batteries instead of a built-in rechargeable option, which feels outdated compared to competitors’ solutions.
Bottom line:
The TV itself is exceptional and worth the purchase for its picture quality and performance. However, the redesigned remote feels like a step backward, with awkward ergonomics, missing buttons, and added smart features that don’t always work as intended. It’s a reminder that sometimes, simplicity beats “smart.”