Looking for the best TV 4K in 2024? This guide identifies the top models across different needs and budgets. Find out which 4K TVs offer the best picture quality, smart features, and value today.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
The Sony A95L is highlighted as the best overall 4K TV of 2024, praised for its picture quality, color accuracy, and smart features, making it ideal for both gaming and streaming.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Hisense U6K stands out with quantum dots and Mini LED backlighting, offering impressive picture quality without breaking the bank.
The best mid-range 4K TV, the TCL C845K, delivers high value with vivid picture quality, demonstrating that a great viewing experience is accessible without premium pricing.
Introduction
Have you ever been captivated by the lifelike images on a 4K TV? This is due to the presence of four times the pixels of Full HD, creating an intricate canvas where every detail is finely crafted. Ultra HD has set a new standard, one that’s eagerly embraced by content creators and streamers, making upscaling a thing of the past.
Nowadays, 4K TVs are common and have transformed into intelligent, interconnected devices that offer an extensive array of streaming services and apps. However, with a multitude of choices, selecting the right TV can be overwhelming. This guide is crafted to guide you through the choices, spotlighting the best-performing 4K TVs in different categories and price brackets.
With a meticulous evaluation process backed by expert reviews and extensive testing, we’ve cherry-picked models that stand out for their excellent picture quality, gaming prowess, and cinematic grandeur. Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or ready to splurge, our guide aims to connect you with a 4K TV that feels tailor-made just for you.
Best Overall 4K TV
Among the myriad of options, certain 4K TVs stand out, striking a perfect balance between price, performance, and features that cater to most consumers. These are the TVs that don’t just meet expectations; they soar above them, delivering excellent picture quality that’s hard to look away from.
Leading the pack is the Sony A95L, a stunning example of what an OLED TV can do. This marvel of TV tech flaunts impeccable color accuracy and Dolby Vision support, making it an instant favorite for those seeking the best OLED TV experience. With streaming content readily available in 4K, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a moment that isn’t picture-perfect.
But the A95L isn’t just about great picture quality; it’s a smart TV that brings the world to your fingertips. The Google TV smart operating system is a breeze to navigate, offering a vast array of streaming channels that cater to every taste. And if you’re a gamer, rest assured, this TV has you covered with features that make it a great gaming TV as well.
The competition is stiff, though, with other TVs like the Samsung QN90C Neo QLED hot on its heels. This QLED TV is a powerhouse, boasting a peak brightness that makes most TVs pale in comparison. It’s a testament to the fact that whether you’re watching in a dimly lit room or one washed in sunlight, these 4K TVs will dazzle you with their performance.
Then there’s the TCL C845K, a mid-ranger that punches well above its weight. With a picture that’s more intense and vibrant than its peers, it’s a reminder that you don’t always have to splurge to get a superior viewing experience. It’s not just about the brightness or the resolution; it’s about how a TV makes you feel when you watch your favorite show or play the latest video game.
Of course, let’s not forget the budget-friendly Hisense U6K, which makes a compelling case for being the best cheap TV with an image that defies its price tag. With quantum dots and local dimming features, this TV is proof that excellent picture quality doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag.
But what about the smart TV platform, you might wonder? Well, these TVs aren’t just about stunning visuals; they also come with smart TV interfaces that are as intuitive as they are extensive. Whether you’re a fan of Roku TV, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV, there’s a smart TV system that will feel like it was made just for you.
In the end, the best overall 4K TV is the one that checks all the boxes for you. Is it the OLED’s infinite contrast that draws you in, or the QLED’s peak brightness that you crave? Maybe it’s the smart TV system that feels like the connective tissue between you and a world of content. Whatever it is, the best 4K TVs of 2024 are more than just electronic devices; they’re gateways to experiences that once felt like distant dreams.
Best Budget 4K TV
For those balancing a tight budget with high expectations, the world of budget 4K TVs presents some unexpected treasures. These are the TVs that balance affordability with performance, bringing you closer to the 4K dream without necessitating a financial nightmare.
Leading the charge is the Hisense U6K, a TV that’s quickly become the darling of the budget category. With quantum dots and Mini LED backlighting, it’s a TV that refuses to compromise on quality, even when the price tag is more than agreeable.
Hot on its heels is the Hisense U6K QLED, another stellar option for those looking to save a few bucks without missing out on the 4K experience. It’s a clear example that great gaming TVs and excellent picture quality can indeed come with a cheaper price tag.
Then there’s the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED QL50F601, a mouthful of a name that’s equally generous with its features. It’s a smart TV that offers an excellent budget-friendly option for those who enjoy the Amazon ecosystem, complete with a smart TV platform that’s both robust and user-friendly.
But what about gaming? Fear not, for budget 4K TVs like these often come equipped with features specifically designed to please gamers. With support for HDR10 and Dolby Vision, as well as a wider color gamut, these TVs ensure that gaming isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a key consideration.
And let’s not overlook the Hisense U7K, which boasts fantastic reflection handling and an excellent contrast ratio. It’s the sort of TV that’s just as at home in a bright environment as it is in a dark room, delivering a viewing experience that belies its budget status.
In the hunt for the best cheap TV image, features like local dimming backlights and quantum dots are no longer out of reach. The Hisense U6K and U7K are prime examples of how budget TVs have closed the gap, offering advanced performance technologies that were once the exclusive domain of their pricier counterparts.
The cherry on top is the Google TV smart interface, which graces the Hisense U6K. It’s a feature-rich platform that brings the world of streaming to your living room without requiring a deep dive into your savings.
So, whether you’re in the market for a new bedroom TV or a gaming TV to connect to your latest console, the best budget 4K TVs of 2024 prove that “budget” doesn’t have to mean “basic.” With these TVs, the only thing thin is the price—not the features or the fun.
Best Mid-Range 4K TV
Torn between the fascination of premium features and the sensibility of a budget-friendly price? Mid-range 4K TVs might be your sweet spot, offering a slice of luxury without a hefty price tag.
The TCL C845K is a shining example of what the mid-range market can offer. With its value for money and vivid picture quality, it stands tall, challenging even more expensive models with its performance. It’s a reminder that a great picture quality doesn’t have to cost you a fortune.
Sony’s Bravia X93L mini-LED TV is another contender that deserves a standing ovation. While it may not bear the QLED moniker, its motion resolution and color accuracy are nothing short of stellar. It’s a testament to Sony’s commitment to quality, regardless of the label.
And then there’s the Hisense U7K, a TV that’s packed with features and doesn’t skimp on picture performance. With excellent HDR brightness, a 120Hz panel, and support for Dolby Vision, it’s a mid-range TV that punches well above its weight class.
However, not all TVs make the cut. The TCL S4, for instance, was dismissed from consideration due to its lack of local dimming, reliance on an IPS LCD panel, and absence of advanced gaming features—a reminder that not all mid-rangers are created equal.
The mid-range category is where you start to see the convergence of price and performance. It’s where the battle rages between the need for more features and the desire to keep spending under control. And it’s where TVs like the TCL C845K and Hisense U7K emerge as champions, offering more than just a pretty picture—they offer an experience.
In the end, the best mid-range 4K TV is one that feels like it was made just for you. Maybe it’s the Sony Bravia X93L that captures your heart with its impeccable color accuracy, or perhaps it’s the Hisense U7K that wins you over with its advanced gaming features and Google TV platform.
Whatever your preference, the mid-range 4K TV market in 2024 is brimming with options that cater to a variety of tastes. These TVs are proof that you don’t need to compromise on quality or features—you just need to know where to look.
Best High-End OLED TV
For those who settle for nothing less than perfection, the high-end OLED TV market merges the apex of picture quality with the opulence of top-tier features. These are the TVs that not only light up your living room but also your senses.
The Sony A95L is the crown jewel of high-end OLED TVs, revered for its Dolby Vision HDR support and unmatched color accuracy. With its second-generation QD-OLED screen, it sets a new benchmark for what an OLED TV can be.
Boasting a peak brightness of 1,500 nits, the A95L is a beacon of light in the OLED market, ensuring that your viewing experience is nothing short of extraordinary. And with the ability to deliver nearly infinite contrast ratios and perfect blacks, it’s a TV that’s tailor-made for the most discerning of movie buffs.
Beyond its picture quality, the A95L comes equipped with DTS:X passthrough over eARC, allowing for advanced audio connections that don’t compromise on sound. It’s a TV that understands that the auditory experience is just as important as the visual one.
And with a variety of screen sizes ranging from 55 to 77 inches, the A95L caters to rooms and preferences of all sizes. Whether you’re looking to create an intimate home theater or a grand cinematic space, this TV adapts to your vision.
But the A95L isn’t the only star in the high-end OLED galaxy. Its Google TV operating system offers a seamless smart TV experience that’s as intuitive as it is comprehensive.
As we move through this constellation of premium TVs, it’s clear that the best high-end OLED TV isn’t just a machine—it’s an experience, a piece of art, and a technological marvel all rolled into one. It’s the TV that doesn’t just display content; it transforms it.
Best QLED 4K TV
In pursuit of unparalleled picture quality, QLED 4K TVs distinguish themselves with their vibrant colors and luminous brightness. These TVs harness the power of quantum dots to create an image that’s as close to perfection as it gets.
The TCL QM8 is the crown jewel of the QLED lineup, offering superior brightness and impact that set a new standard for what a QLED TV can achieve. With a peak brightness of 2,500 nits, it’s a beacon of light in the QLED realm, ensuring that every scene is displayed in its full glory.
Samsung’s QN90C Neo QLED is another marvel, with near-impeccable HDR performance that pushes the boundaries of what we’ve come to expect from a QLED TV. It’s a shining example of how far QLED technology has come, with chart-topping brightness levels that make it ideal for bright rooms.
Then there’s the Hisense U8N ULED TV, renowned for its intense brightness and deep blacks. It’s a reminder that value and performance can go hand in hand, offering a picture that rivals that of much pricier models.
The TCL QM8 features:
Mini LED backlight
Up to 144Hz refresh rate
Full-array local dimming capabilities
Google TV interface
Google Assistant voice remote
It’s a TV that’s as smart as it is beautiful.
In the end, the best QLED 4K TV is more than just a display; it’s a window to a world where colors are more vibrant, and every detail is illuminated with precision. It’s the TV that doesn’t just play content; it breathes life into it.
Best Gaming 4K TV
For gaming enthusiasts in need of a display that matches their swift reflexes, top gaming 4K TVs are designed with minimal input lag and the newest gaming features, guaranteeing a smooth and crisp frame rate.
Samsung’s Q9 TV is a fierce competitor in the gaming arena, offering a game mode that slashes input lag to the bare minimum. Paired with the TV’s stunning picture quality, gaming becomes an immersive experience that’s hard to tear away from.
But the Sony X90L TV takes it a step further, with custom features that are designed specifically to make the PS5 console shine like no other. It’s not just a TV; it’s a gaming partner that understands the importance of synergy between display and device.
The LG C3 OLED TV is a gamer’s dream come true, with its Game Optimizer settings suite catering to the demands of hardcore gamers. With support for every next-gen feature from Dolby Vision to Nvidia G-Sync, it’s a TV that’s as versatile as it is advanced.
And the Samsung S90C OLED is not to be overlooked, offering a robust array of advanced gaming features that make it a top contender for any gaming setup. With four HDMI 2.1 ports, VRR, and ALLM support, it’s ready for action whether you’re connecting a gaming PC or the latest console through its hdmi ports.
Yet, the LG C3 OLED TV stands out as the best gaming TV mentioned, boasting an impressive set of features designed to enhance every gaming session. From its Dolby Vision support to its 4K 120Hz capabilities, it’s a TV that knows how to play as hard as you do.
With gaming becoming an increasingly integral part of the home entertainment experience, the demand for TVs that can double as high-performance gaming monitors is on the rise. The gaming TVs of 2024 meet this demand head-on, with technology that’s always ready for the next level.
In the end, the best gaming 4K TV is the one that keeps up with the speed of your gameplay, enhances your immersive experience, and brings every virtual world to life with breathtaking clarity. It’s the TV that makes every game feel like a new adventure.
Best 4K TV for Movies
When the lights lower and the popcorn is popped, film lovers understand that the correct TV can morph a regular movie into an epic cinematic journey. The best 4K TVs for movies are those that replicate the theater experience, with exceptional picture quality, HDR support, and an atmosphere that draws you into the story.
The LG OLED C3 stands out for movie lovers, offering:
Perfect black levels
Unbeatable contrast that ensure every scene is as the director intended
Superb off-angle viewing, meaning that every seat in the house is the best seat for watching movies.
With its unrivaled detail and vibrant colors, the LG C3 excels in bringing movies to life, ensuring that no detail is lost in translation from the big screen to your living room. It’s a TV that respects the art of filmmaking by presenting it in its purest form.
The Samsung S95C, with its QD-OLED technology, takes color accuracy to the next level, making it a strong contender for movie buffs who value true-to-life hues and the subtlest of shades.
The Hisense U7K and Vizio V-Series also get their moment in the spotlight, supporting Dolby Vision and HDR10+ to enhance the HDR viewing experience. With these TVs, the darkest shadows and the brightest highlights are all part of the dramatic tension that keeps you glued to the screen.
Yet, it’s not just about the dramatic contrast and vivid colors. Dolby Vision and HDR are crucial for capturing the depth and emotion of every scene, transporting you into the world of the movie.
For an immersive movie-watching experience, the TV’s picture quality is paramount. It’s the difference between merely watching a movie and feeling a part of it. And with the best 4K TVs for movies, every night is a premiere waiting to happen.
In the end, the best 4K TV for movies is the one that can tell a story without saying a word. It’s the TV that becomes an invisible storyteller, one that knows the importance of every shadow, every highlight, and every color in the grand tapestry of cinema.
Best Smart TV Platform
In an era dominated by streaming, the premier smart TV platform is the one that provides a diverse range of apps and a user-friendly, seamless experience. It’s the gateway to a world of content, where ease of use and selection are key.
LG’s webOS stands at the pinnacle of TV operating systems, offering a sleek interface and a robust selection of apps that make it the best smart TV system for many users. It’s the platform that understands the importance of an effortless user experience.
Roku’s simplicity has won it many fans, with its straightforward navigation and extensive app selection that make it a favorite in smart TV systems. It’s about getting you to your content quickly and without fuss.
Google TV is praised for its integration with Google services, making it a smart choice for those deeply embedded in the Google ecosystem. From Google Photos to YouTube TV, it’s a platform that keeps all your content connected.
Samsung’s TV system, featured in their Samsung TV lineup, ranks third among smart TV platforms, offering a solid balance between functionality and user-friendliness. It’s a system that’s as smart as the TVs it powers.
Amazon Fire TV’s platform might be less favored due to its prominent ads, but it still offers a great smart UI experience, especially for those who prefer Alexa’s smart home integration.
The different smart TV interfaces, such as Roku and Fire TV, each bring something unique to the table. Whether it’s the ease of navigation or the vast app ecosystem, these platforms are designed to make your smart TV as enjoyable as it is functional.
In evaluating smart TV platforms, the following factors are put to the test:
App launch speed
Smooth menu navigation
Voice search responsiveness
Digital assistant capabilities
The goal is to ensure that every major streaming app is present and performing at its best.
In the end, the best smart TV platform is the one that feels like an extension of your preferences and habits. It’s the system that makes discovering new content as enjoyable as watching your favorite show. With the right platform, your TV becomes more than just a screen—it becomes a hub of entertainment tailored just for you.
How to Choose the Best 4K TV for You
Embarking on the journey to find the ultimate 4K TV can be intimidating, but don’t worry! By taking into account crucial factors like:
screen size
brightness
supported HDR formats
budget
You can streamline your choices and discover the TV that’s perfectly suited for you.
The best size for a 4K TV is largely dependent on your room size, viewing distance, and, of course, personal preference. A 65-inch model is the typical flagship size, but there’s a range of options to fit spaces both large and small.
When accounting for viewing distance and resolution, remember that the larger the screen, the more immersive the viewing experience—provided you have the space to accommodate it. But, of course, bigger TVs come with bigger price tags, so budget considerations are key.
Brighter rooms demand brighter TVs to combat glare and maintain color saturation. 4K TVs with higher brightness levels are better equipped to handle a variety of lighting conditions, ensuring a great picture no matter the time of day.
With approximately 8 million pixels, 4K resolution offers sharp and clear picture quality that makes even the smallest details stand out. Most TVs on the market now are 4K, making it the standard resolution for many buyers.
Upscaling is another factor to consider, as not all content is available in 4K. A TV with good upscaling can make lower-resolution content look better, so it’s worth looking into if you have a large library of non-4K material.
When choosing a TV, don’t forget to consider the supported HDR formats, sound output, and the type of content you’ll be viewing most often. These factors will influence your overall satisfaction with your new TV.
Ultimately, the best 4K TV for you is one that fits your lifestyle, preferences, and viewing habits. It’s the TV that makes you excited to turn it on, whether you’re settling in for a movie night or gearing up for a gaming session.
How We Test 4K TVs
Our hunt for the finest 4K TVs goes beyond a mere subjective examination of screen quality—it entails a comprehensive process that thoroughly assesses all aspects of a TV’s performance. Here are the key factors we consider:
Picture quality
Audio quality
Gaming features
Smart TV features
We leave no stone unturned in our evaluation.
Picture quality is at the heart of our testing, with a focus on how TVs handle black levels, color fidelity, and sharpness across various resolutions. We test using native 4K, HD, and even SD material to ensure that every TV can handle a wide range of content.
Audio quality is just as important, as a great picture deserves to be paired with rich sound. Our evaluation includes both the TV’s built-in speakers and its ability to connect to external sound systems without losing audio fidelity.
Gaming features are rigorously tested, with an emphasis on low input lag and the presence of the latest advancements like variable refresh rate. We understand that for gamers, these features can make or break the gaming experience.
Smart TV features are evaluated based on ease of use, app selection, and overall user experience, with the smart tv operating system playing a crucial role. We consider factors such as app launch speed, navigation fluidity, and the responsiveness of voice search and digital assistants.
Value for money is a crucial part of our reviews because we believe the best TV is one that offers a high-quality experience at a fair price. We weigh the features and performance against the cost to determine if a TV is truly worth its price tag.
To objectively measure picture performance, we use specialized equipment like test pattern generators, colorimeters, and calibration software. This allows us to gather quantifiable data on brightness, color gamut, and other key metrics.
Our TVs are tested in different viewing conditions, from dark rooms for critical movie watching to spaces with ambient light, ensuring that they can perform well in real-world settings.
By conducting thorough and comprehensive tests, we aim to provide you with reliable recommendations that you can trust. It’s not just about finding the best TVs; it’s about ensuring they’re the best for you.
Learn more, visit Best budget TVs of 2024: Tested and rated.
Summary
As we draw the curtains on our journey through the landscape of 4K TVs in 2024, it’s clear that there’s a TV out there for everyone. From the budget-conscious to the high-end enthusiasts, the market is teeming with options that cater to all tastes and needs.
The best overall 4K TVs, like the Sony A95L and Samsung QN90C, set the bar high with their blend of picture quality, smart features, and gaming prowess. For those on a tighter budget, models like the Hisense U6K and U7K prove that high performance doesn’t have to come at a high price.
Mid-range options such as the TCL C845K and Hisense U7K offer a balance of features and affordability, while the premium Sony A95L and TCL QM8 lead the pack in the OLED and QLED categories, respectively. Gamers are well-served by the LG C3 and Samsung S90C, which offer low input lag and cutting-edge gaming features.
When it comes to immersing yourself in your favorite movies, TVs like the LG OLED C3 and Samsung S95C deliver cinematic experiences that rival any movie theater. And with smart TV platforms like LG’s webOS, Roku, and Google TV, streaming your favorite content has never been easier or more enjoyable.
In conclusion, the best 4K TV for you is one that fits your unique viewing habits, space, and budget. With the insights from our extensive testing and reviews, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision that will enhance your viewing experience for years to come. So, go ahead and embrace the world of 4K—it’s brighter, sharper, and more vibrant than ever before.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best size for a 4K TV in my room?
The best size for a 4K TV in your room depends on the size of the room, your viewing distance, and your personal preference. A 65-inch model is usually a good choice, but be sure to consider your space and budget.
Can budget 4K TVs still offer good picture quality?
Yes, budget 4K TVs can still offer good picture quality, with features like quantum dots and local dimming, allowing for a great viewing experience without breaking the bank.
Are there 4K TVs that are good for both gaming and watching movies?
Yes, some 4K TVs are great for both gaming and watching movies, so look for ones with low input lag, high picture quality, and support for HDR formats like Dolby Vision for the best experience.
How important is the smart TV platform in a 4K TV?
The smart TV platform is crucial in a 4K TV as it directly impacts user experience, app availability, and overall ease of use. It can make a big difference in your streaming experience and convenience.
What should I look for when choosing a 4K TV for a brightly lit room?
Look for 4K TVs with higher brightness levels, like QLED TVs such as the Samsung QN90C, which combat glare and maintain color saturation in brightly lit rooms.
