What is the Panasonic Z86C TV?

The Panasonic Z86C is an entry-level OLED TV from Panasonic's 2026 line-up, featuring LG Display's new OLED SE panel.

What are the key features of the new OLED SE panel in the Z86C?

The OLED SE panel is designed to be cheaper to produce and brighter, capable of reaching up to 1,000 nits, though it omits a polarizer.

How does the Panasonic Z86C compare to mid-range OLEDs like the Z90B?

The Z86C shows comparable brightness and reflectivity, but may have differences in tone mapping and detail in certain scenes compared to the Z90B.

Home / Technology / Panasonic's New OLED: Budget Brightness Breakthrough?

Panasonic's New OLED: Budget Brightness Breakthrough?

26 Feb

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Summary

Panasonic Z86C uses LG Display's new OLED SE panel.
New panel offers potential for cheaper production and higher brightness.
Initial impressions show good brightness but potential tone mapping differences.

Panasonic's New OLED: Budget Brightness Breakthrough?

Panasonic has unveiled its 2026 TV line-up for the UK and Europe, featuring the new Z86C (known as Z85C in Europe). This entry-level OLED TV is notable for being the first to incorporate LG Display's new OLED SE panel. This panel is designed for more cost-effective manufacturing and is capable of reaching brightness levels up to 1,000 nits.

During a demonstration, the Z86C impressed with its brightness, even when compared to Panasonic's mid-range Z90B from the previous year. Despite the OLED SE panel's cost-saving measure of omitting a polarizer, the Z86C showed comparable reflectivity to the Z90B, thanks to Panasonic's addition of its own polarizer.