I purchased the 2016 model with 3.0 software. I compared both TVs and did see improved contrast and more vivid color with the 2016 model with 3.0 software.. My biggest reason was to get three HDMI inputs combined with 3.0 software. Only the 2016 3.0 software gives you the ability to display two separate signal inputs on the TV screen at the same time. LG calls it "Multi-View". This was important to me because I have a security camera system that allows me to watch for arriving company while watching another TV station. My cable DVR box is connected to HDMI 2 & my security camera system is connected to HDMI 3 and of course my Apple TV is connected to HDMI 1. It is awesome to have any two live feeds on the screen at the same time... especially since no one seems to offer "Picture in Picture" any more. This is a GREAT TV, worth the money. The way it upscales the 1080P to 4K makes it worth the price alone... original 4K shows, videos & movies become the icing on the cake not to mention that the ability to turn of each of the over 8 million pixels individually gives unbelievable contrast!!!