When it comes to buying a new TV, the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming. However, with our guide, finding the best TV for your needs and budget is easier than ever as we've listed some of the most impressive displays on the market that cater to all kinds of different needs and situations.
With big names like LG, Sony, and Samsung all vying for the top spot, there's no shortage of great options to choose from. However, there are a handful of TVs that stand out from the rest due to their impressive specifications, reviews, and, of course, their picture quality.
For example, one of the best budget TVs we found is the Samsung BU8500 which, despite its lower price tag, still delivers a 4K picture and features a handy Smart Hub packed with streaming applications like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV, allowing you to keep up-to-date with all your favourite shows. Gamers need not worry either as we've made sure to include options, like the Samsung S95B, that come with HDMI 2.1 ports to deliver 4K/120Hz gameplay depending on what you're playing.
So, whatever it is you're after, our list of the best televisions has you covered. Sit back, relax, and let us help you find an upgrade. Let's get into it...
Best televisions
click to enlarge1. LG OLED evo C2
Best TV
Refresh rate: 120Hz HDR: 10 Ports: 4x HDMI 2.1, 3x USB
LG has a reputation for producing exceptional televisions, but its OLED evo C2 range takes the crown as being one of the best. Available in sizes ranging from 48 inches all the way up to 83, this impressive 4K OLED display has a lot to offer for both gaming and everyday use.
Firstly, you get HDR10 alongside Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro, which improves the detail of 5,000 blocks across the screen. Moreover, it comes with Dolby Vision Bright and Dolby Vision Dark modes, making it a great TV for watching content through the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S's in-built Dolby Vision mode.
Adding to the picture quality is some impressive sound. The C2 uses an α9 Gen 5 AI Processor to up-mix 2-channel audio into virtual 7.1.2 channel sound. This may sound confusing, but it means it can deliver all the action from a movie or your gameplay as if it were taking place around you.
As if that wasn't enough, the TV also offers Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support and delivers a 0.1ms response time to ensure you've got the competitive edge online. Furthermore, the TV comes with four different HDMI 2.1 sockets that run at 48gbps in full 4K, with HGiG included for greater HDR accuracy.
The TV is by no means cheap, but it's one of the best OLED TVs we've come across. It delivers exceptional picture and sound quality and has a sleek appearance, making it well worth considering in our opinion.
click to enlarge2. Samsung BU8500
Refresh rate: 50/60Hz HDR: 10+ Ports: 3x HDMI 2.0b, 2x USB
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, the Samsung BU8500 might be the TV for you. This 4K display comes in various sizes, ranging from 43 inches to 75 inches. Although it's not an OLED TV, it still features HDR10+ to maximise brightness, contrast, and colour accuracy. It's also a smart device that supports popular streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.
The sleek design of the TV means it should fit comfortably in your living space, bedroom, or kitchen, with its ultra-thin AirSlim profile making it a great option if you're looking for something that can blend in seamlessly in your home.
It's also worth noting you get three HDMI 2.0 inputs, with one of the HDMI ports eARC enabled for a soundbar. You can also control the TV using your smartphone or voice commands, as it's compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Bixby. If you prefer using a remote, the TV comes with a standard remote control and a solar-powered smaller handset for even greater ease.
On the whole, this Samsung TV is definitely a great option to consider as it offers excellent value for money, with features that rival even some of its more expensive competitors.
click to enlarge3. Sony Bravia XR A95K
Best premium TV
Refresh rate: 120Hz HDR: 10 Ports: 4x HDMI 2.1, 1x USB
The Sony Bravia XR A95K is a top-of-the-line television available in two sizes - 55 and 65 inches. Although it comes at a high cost, it delivers exceptional audio and visual quality that helps it justify its price tag, thus earning a spot here.
One of the most impressive aspects of this TV is its sound quality thanks to Acoustic Surface Audio＋turning the screen into a multi-channel speaker, thus eliminating some of the need for a soundbar.
Picture-wise, its OLED and HDR technology allow it to deliver stunning colours and brightness, supporting HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision for the best viewing experience possible. It's also a smart TV, so you get access to various streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+, and Apple TV.
In terms of gaming, this TV has two HDMI 2.1 ports and full VRR support, enabling gamers to play high-performance games with smooth visuals. With its Variable Refresh Rate settings, games such as God Of War: Ragnarok can run at 120FPS for a seamless experience.
All in all, the Sony Bravia is an outstanding TV with exceptional audio and visual quality, various streaming apps, and gaming capabilities. Though it comes with a hefty price tag, its size, picture quality, and features mean you shouldn't have to upgrade for a long time.
click to enlarge4. Samsung S95B
Best gaming TV
Refresh rate: 120Hz HDR: 10+ Ports: 4x HDMI 2.1, 3x USB
The Samsung S95B is another standout OLED TV available in either 55 inches or 65 inches. What's more, it offers cutting-edge technology, stunning visuals, impressive audio, and is a top choice for gamers.
The TV boasts support for HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG to give maximum brightness and increase contrast. It also features four HDMI ports, all of which support 4K/120Hz gaming, with one eARC port for soundbar connectivity.
Adding to its gaming prowess is its support for FreeSync Premium, VRR, and its Auto Low Latency Mode to minimise screen tearing and stuttering for silky smooth gameplay.
Also, you get the usual range of smart features, with support for popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime, Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV, YouTube, HBO Max, and more. Overall, this TV is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality TV packed with features to maximise your gaming experience.
click to enlarge4. Samsung Frame TV
Best TV for wall mounting
Refresh rate: 50/60Hz HDR: 10+ Ports: 4x HDMI, 2x USB
The Samsung Frame TV is perhaps the most unique entry as it's designed to mimic a picture frame and can be enhanced with a wooden edge to seamlessly blend into a wall.
It's available in a wide range of sizes, starting with the 32-inch model and going up to the 85-inch display, giving you plenty of options to find a size that suits your space.
In terms of features, the Samsung Frame TV is a smart device that supports voice control for Bixby, Alexa, and Google Assistant. It comes with four HDMI ports, with models larger than 50 inches offering one HDMI port capable of 4K/120Hz, and it comes with FreeSync Premium Pro support, an Auto Game Mode, plus Samsung's Game Bar built into the system.
Finally, the TV boasts Dolby Vision and QLED to deliver superior picture quality, with full 4K HDR to enhance colours and provide a vibrant image. All in all, an excellent option to consider for mounting on your wall to blend seamlessly into your home.
Frequently asked questions about TVs
Navigating the world of televisions can be confusing, and can often lead to a ton of questions. However, fear not, as we have compiled a list of the most commonly asked queries below to help you out.
What should you look for from a TV?
Even the best TV comes with some sacrifices, so chasing perfection might leave you disappointed. Instead, you should focus on your specific needs, balancing your budget against screen size, resolution, panel type, and feature support if you want immersion, and refresh rate if you're a competitive gamer.
Measure the space you have to determine the maximum screen size that will fit comfortably and provide the best viewing angles possible. Then, consider the picture quality you want; OLED TVs are some of the best around right now, but tend to be a little more expensive than QLED or LCD displays. Make sure you also consider the HDR capabilities as well to ensure you're getting the best colour and contrast output possible.
Next, make sure you consider the TV's sound output as you don't want to end up with something that's difficult to hear or low-quality. You can always improve the sound quality by investing in one of the best soundbars if you're not completely satisfied with your TV's audio output, but built-in speakers make for a clean setup.
Other characteristics worth keeping in mind include whether or not the TV you're looking to purchase comes with smart features and streaming apps, and if you're planning to use it for gaming, consider picking up a device capable of 4K/120Hz with options like VRR to ensure you remain competitive online.
Should you buy an 8K TV now?
This is a tricky one to answer as 8K content is currently very limited, with only a few movies and TV shows available at that resolution. Streaming services are slow to adopt the new standard, and it's incrediibly difficult for current PC hardware to play games at such a high pixel count.
It arguably offers diminishing returns against 4K resolution, too. 8K is undoubtedly sharper than UHD, but most people won't perceive it as a big jump compared to moving from 480p was to 1080p or HD to QHD.
If you're someone who enjoys being at the forefront of technology and wants the latest and greatest in visual quality, an 8K TV may be worth considering, although you will have to pay a premium to acquire one right now. Otherwise, we'd recommend placing more emphasis on the HDR capabilities and panel type over pixel count.
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