I’m a TV expert, and here are the best TVs you can buy today for every budget

Top OLED and mini-LED sets to consider, from elite TVs to wallet-friendly options

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Introduction: Finding Your Perfect Screen

Welcome to my comprehensive guide to the top televisions available on the market right now. As the manager of TechRadar’s TV and projector testing program, I bring over two decades of experience evaluating TVs. Throughout this period, I’ve witnessed the evolution of display technology firsthand, from the advent of standard-definition to high-definition and 4K, and the shift from bulky CRTs and plasmas to sleek OLED and mini-LED panels.

Today’s TVs offer a remarkably enhanced viewing experience compared to models from just three years ago. We’re seeing substantial improvements in brightness, High Dynamic Range (HDR) performance, motion processing, and even integrated audio quality.

With such a rich selection of excellent TVs available, the primary challenge, in my view, is identifying the model that perfectly aligns with your specific budget and usage requirements. Are you a cinephile seeking a TV that faithfully reproduces a director's vision? Or perhaps a sports enthusiast who needs a display that performs brilliantly even in a brightly lit room?

This guide is designed to highlight TVs that are ideally suited for particular purposes and to present options across various budget tiers and screen sizes. If you’re curious about other TVs not featured in this main list, you’ll find details about them, and why they didn’t make the cut, in the "Also Consider" section.

⤵ Read more

Why You Can Trust Me and TechRadar

At TechRadar, our TV review team conducts all testing on-site, under my leadership. I am anISF-trained video calibratorwith over 20 years of experience in AV product testing.

I’ve personally trained our staff reviewers to utilizeindustry-standard testing equipmentto precisely measure objective parameters such as TV brightness and color accuracy. However, we always balance these quantitative measurements with subjective assessments of picture and sound quality, as raw data alone cannot fully capture a TV's overall performance.

Our evaluation process extends beyond mere picture quality to thoroughly examine features, audio performance, gaming capabilities, and overall value. Our reviews include detailed ratings for various sections, alongside measurement graphs that often feature comparable TVs. This allows you to easily gauge a TV’s strengths and weaknesses against its competitors, assisting you in making an informed decision.

TechRadar has a 17-year history of product testing, reviewing more than 1,300 products annually. My team alone evaluates an average of 35 TVs each year, covering the entire spectrum from affordable 32-inch models to expansive 100-inch-plus displays.

Beyond leading TechRadar’s TV testing, I also cover projectors, soundbars, and home theater audio. My previous role was editor of Sound & Vision magazine, and I hold an ISF TV calibrator certification. Having dedicated almost three decades to AV product testing and tech journalism, I’ve had hands-on experience with virtually every flagship TV on the market. This list has been curated with the combined insights of our reviewers and my extensive personal experience, aiming to address a broad range of budgets and viewing preferences.

November 6, 2025: This guide was completely rewritten to streamline the selection process by focusing on a more curated, smaller number of recommended TVs.

Why you can trust TechRadar:We dedicate numerous hours to testing every product or service we review, ensuring you make the best purchase.Find out more about how we test.

Our Expert TV Recommendations

LG C5: Best Overall TV

Our expert review:If I had to pinpoint a single television that excels across all viewing scenarios—movies, sports, and gaming—my choice would unequivocally be theLG C5. This TV delivers a level of picture quality and feature set typically associated with far more expensive models, yet it does so at a remarkably accessible, mid-range price point.

The primary advantage of the LG C5 is its cutting-edgeOLED display panel. In my experience watching films and TV on the C5, the rich, intricate shadows and profound contrast, characteristic of LG's OLED technology, create an astonishingly lifelike image. Gaming on the C5 is equally captivating, with its seamless, lag-free performance during intense action sequences fostering a powerful sense of immersion.

Feature-wise, the C5 incorporates LG’s newAlpha 9 Gen 8 AI Processor, offering a modest boost in picture brightness compared to its predecessor, the LG C4. Furthermore, the C5 boasts a2.2-channel, 40W Dolby Atmos speaker array, capable of delivering reasonably punchy audio with clear dialogue.

LG’s latest smart TV platform,webOS 25, introduces a host of AI-enhanced functionalities for content discovery and automated picture and sound calibration. During our review of the C5, we particularly appreciated how the updated smart interface allows for personalized profiles for different household members, complete with a newVoice IDfeature that automatically switches to customized settings. Another notable webOS innovation is LG’sQuick Menu, which provides effortless on-screen access to various TV adjustments while your current program remains visible in the background.

While the C5 performs admirably in nearly every aspect, it truly shines as a gaming TV. Its input lag is an impressively low9.2ms, and all fourHDMI portssupport4K 144Hz,Dolby Vision gaming,FreeSync Premium, andNvidia G-Sync. Additionally, the C5 supports cloud-based gaming apps, offering excellent options like Xbox, Amazon Luna, and Nvidia GeForce Now.

The C5 truly earns its title as the best overall TV by consistently delivering exceptional performance across the board, all at a competitive price point compared to other premium OLED televisions.

Read our fullLG C5 review

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Roku Plus Series: Best Budget TV (Under $500)

Our expert review:When friends seek my advice for a reliable, affordable TV, my immediate recommendation is theRoku Plus Series. These TVs represent Roku’s mid-range offering, perfectly balancing performance and value.

A significant portion of this performance stems from the Roku Plus Series’ inclusion of amini-LED backlight– a feature rarely found at this price point. When combined with the TV’sQLED display panel, it produces images with strong contrast, deep blacks, and vibrant colors. While many other TVs offer similar picture quality advantages, the 55-inch Plus Series model achieves this for under$500.

Another major benefit of the Roku Plus Series is its impressively straightforward smart TV interface. Having tested TVs from all leading brands, I find the Roku smart TV platform to be exceptionally clean and easy to navigate. Roku TVs offer a wide array of capabilities, from voice-activated content searches to controlling smart home devices like video doorbells and lights, but for simply accessing your desired apps and shows, few TVs make it as effortless.

With a standard60Hz refresh rate, rather than the120Hzpreferred by Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 gamers, the Plus Series provides average gaming specifications. However, anAuto Game Modeactivates when a gaming console input is detected, and the TV's measured11.5ms input lagis notably low for a TV in this price bracket, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay.

Beyond that, Roku Plus Series TVs offer a good selection of features, including support for bothDolby VisionandHDR10+High Dynamic Range. During my review of the 55-inch Plus Series TV, I found its picture quality to be remarkable for the price, establishing it as an excellent budget TV choice.

Read our fullRoku Plus Series review

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Hisense U8QG: Best TV Under $1,000

Our expert review:Hisense TVs are renowned for delivering exceptional picture quality at their price point, and theHisense U8QGis a prime example. I was thoroughly impressed by the U8QG’s visuals during my review, so much so that I awarded it a rare five out of five stars for value. If you’re seeking a fantastic television while keeping your budget under$1,000(the 55-inch model currently retails for this, and the 65-inch frequently drops below this during sales), the Hisense U8QG comes with my strong recommendation.

What truly distinguished the U8QG for me was its screen brightness, which not only rivals but often surpasses TVs costing considerably more. Itsmini-LED backlight’sprecise local dimming control is highly effective forHigh Dynamic Range images—supporting bothDolby VisionandHDR10+formats. This ensures deep shadows and brings out intricate details in bright highlights. Colors on the U8QG also appeared rich during my testing, and itsanti-reflection screen, combined with its high brightness, makes it an excellent choice for daytime sports viewing.

The Hisense U8QG utilizesGoogle TVfor streaming, providing benefits such as seamless integration with a Google account for personalized recommendations and on-screen control ofGoogle Homesmart devices. Gaming support is robust, featuring4K 165Hz,FreeSync Premium Pro,Dolby Vision, andHDR10+ gamingacross its threeHDMI 2.1 ports.

During my evaluation of the U8QG, I was less impressed by its4.1.2-channel, 72W speaker array, which doesn't quite match its outstanding picture. While it delivered clear dialogue and good immersion with movie soundtracks, I did encounter some issues with the TV’s built-in subwoofer. Nevertheless, the savings you'll realize by choosing the U8QG over a more expensive mini-LED TV will easily cover the cost of a quality soundbar.

Read our fullHisense U8QG review

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TCL QM6K: Best Budget Big-Screen TV

Our expert review:While I typically hesitate to recommend a brand's absolute top-tier model for an ultra-large TV purchase, I also wouldn’t suggest the cheapest option merely for affordability, as the results are often underwhelming. What distinguishes theTCL QM6Kis its status as the most affordable TCL television featuring amini-LED backlight—a technology that, in my experience, significantly enhances picture brightness and contrast, especially on larger screens.

The QM6K series is available in screen sizes up to98 inches, with the 85-inch model frequently discounted to under$1,000, and the 98-inch model priced just above$2,000. These represent exceptional values for a big-screen TV offering this caliber of picture quality.

The QM6K is also remarkably feature-rich compared to other budget big-screen TVs I’ve tested. In addition to its mini-LED backlight, it supports bothDolby VisionandHDR10+High Dynamic Range formats and isIMAX Enhanced. The QM6K utilizes theGoogle TVsmart platform for streaming and includeshands-free voice controlvia Google Assistant.

The sound quality from the QM6K’s integrated speakers is merely adequate, but for a screen of this size, I would generally advise pairing it with one of thebest soundbars. Our TechRadar review noted that gaming on the QM6K is a delight, with support for up to4K 144Hz VRR(includingNvidia G-SyncandAMD FreeSync) and288Hz at 1080p resolution.

I genuinely believe there isn't a better big-screen value than the TCL QM6K. While you could achieve a brighter, slightly superior picture by opting for one of TCL's more expensive series, such as theTCL QM8K, I am confident that most viewers will be thoroughly pleased with the QM6K’s image quality and, undoubtedly, its price.

Read our fullTCL QM6K review

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Samsung S95F: Best OLED for Bright Rooms

Our expert review:The moment I first saw theSamsung S95F, it was clear that Samsung had engineered something extraordinary: an OLED TV bright enough to rival mini-LED displays. The S95F’s luminous picture, coupled with itsSamsung OLED Glare Free screen—a technology that proved exceptionally effective at eliminating screen reflections in bright environments during our review—makes this TV a versatile powerhouse for both movie watching and sports viewing.

Now in its second generation, the Glare Free screen on the S95F not only eradicates distracting mirrored reflections but also preserves the intense contrast and deep black levels that OLED enthusiasts, like myself, cherish. Furthermore, the S95F'sSamsung NQ4 AI Gen 3 processorintroduces a suite of AI-driven enhancements to improve detail, upscaling, and motion handling. It can even upscale standard dynamic range content to high dynamic range, ensuring all content looks its best.

Samsung’sTizen smart TV interfaceis consistently among the best, and it receives several upgrades in the S95F. Key additions include new homepage hubs for gaming and productivity applications, as well as anAmbient portalthat allows subscribers (for $5/month) to theSamsung Art Storeto display over 3,000 artworks when the TV is in standby. A new quick menu also provides convenient access to frequently used picture adjustments and user settings.

Gaming is another major highlight of the S95F. It features Samsung’sGaming Hub, which hosts apps from Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now, and others, and providesfour HDMI portsthat support4K 165Hz,FreeSync Premium Pro,ALLM, andHDR10+ gaming. A built-in4.2.2 channel, 70W speaker arraydelivers clear dialogue, and Samsung’sObject Tracking Sound+ systemensures that audio effects precisely follow the on-screen action.

As Samsung’s flagship OLED TV, the S95F commands a premium price. However, for those, like me, who desire a TV that excels equally for movies and sports, the S95F is truly the one. Its sleek, razor-thin design and Samsung Art Store compatibility also make it the closest a television can come to being a piece of art.

Read our fullSamsung S95F review

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Samsung QN90F: Best TV for Sports

Our expert review:If you're a dedicated sports fan, theSamsung QN90Fwill perfectly meet your viewing demands. During my review of the QN90F, I was particularly impressed by its picture quality when watching sports, performing exceptionally well in both bright and dimly lit environments. This stellar performance is largely attributed to this flagship Samsung mini-LED TV’s outstanding brightness, complemented by itsGlare Free screen, which virtually eliminated any reflections from my room's overhead lights and lamps.

High brightness and glare reduction are not the sole contributors to the QN90F’s superb picture. AWide Viewing Anglefeature ensures consistent image quality from any seat in the room. Additionally, Samsung’s excellentAI-enhanced motion processing, combined with its high refresh rate screen, renders fast-paced action solid and blur-free, effectively preventing the "vanishing ball" effect that can plague lesser TVs during sports broadcasts.

Other compelling features enhancing the QN90F’s appeal include a4.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos speaker systemthat delivers crisp, well-defined sound, and an integratedATSC 3.0 tunerfor receiving NextGen digital TV broadcasts in the US. The QN90F boasts an almost impossibly slim and attractive design and comes with Samsung’s rechargeableSolarCell remote, which conveniently powers itself by absorbing ambient light.

Samsung TVs are among the leaders for gaming, and the QN90F featuresfour HDMI portsthat support4K 165Hz,FreeSync Premium Pro,ALLM, andHDR10+ gaming. Even if you don’t own a gaming console, there’s no need to worry, as the TV’sGaming Hubprovides access to Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now, and numerous other cloud-gaming applications.

While the Samsung QN90F commands a higher price than many competing mini-LED TVs, if you’re seeking the ultimate TV for sports—one that also excels remarkably for gaming and movies—you simply cannot do better. I awarded the QN90F a perfect five out of five stars in my overall rating during its review, and I was genuinely sad to see it go once my testing was complete.

Read our fullSamsung QN90F review

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TV Test Results: Objective Performance Data

As part of our rigorous testing process, we objectively measure the performance of televisions using specialized equipment. These numerical figures are then used to inform our judgment on the perceived picture quality.

It's important to note that you shouldn't rely solely on test numbers to judge a TV. However, they can be incredibly useful for making quick comparisons when deciding between models. Below, you'll find a summary of the results for all the TVs we’ve recommended, gathered by our labs and testers using professional-grade equipment and software.

Brightness Measurements

Brightness is a critical factor, measured using both HDR and SDR video, across small highlight areas and fullscreen displays, where the difference can be significant. (Specific results would appear here in a table format in the original guide).

Color Gamut Coverage

These tests measure how closely TVs achieve 100% coverage of the P3 color range, which is essential for HDR video. The BT.2020 range is also used in professional video production but is less relevant for general consumer use. (Specific results would appear here in a table format in the original guide).

Input Lag

Input lag represents the delay from when an image signal enters the TV’s HDMI port until it appears on screen. This is particularly crucial for gaming, where immediate responsiveness to button presses is desired without delay. We measure this using specialized equipment that rapidly flashes an image and detects the delay. (Specific results would appear here in a table format in the original guide).

Also Consider: Other TVs Worth Noting

This buying guide showcases a selection of TVs recently tested by TechRadar. Here are several other worthy televisions, complete with their product highlights and explanations for why they didn't make our primary recommendation list.

Samsung S90F

Samsung’s mid-range OLED TV presents a strong alternative to the LG C5, our top pick for best overall TV. In ourreview, we found it offered slightly higher brightness than the C5 and excellent all-around picture quality. The S90F is also an exceptional gaming TV, arguably surpassing the C5 in gaming features. However, the 65-inch S90F we tested is the only screen size Samsung consistently confirms uses a QD-OLED panel; other sizes may feature a mix of panel types. Therefore, we can only confidently certify its performance for that specific size.

Read our fullSamsung S90F review

Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED

Amazon’s premium Fire TV model offers remarkable value for its features, boasting good overall picture quality and impressive gaming specifications (including 4K 144Hz support) and performance, as detailed in ourreview. It's priced higher than the Roku Plus Series, our under-$500 choice, but delivers a brighter picture. Otherwise, the performance of these two TVs is largely comparable. However, the cluttered Amazon Fire TV interface is less intuitive than Roku’s, which stands out as one of the cleanest and easiest-to-navigate smart TV platforms available. Despite this, the Omni Mini-LED can be purchased at an attractive price, especially during major sales events like Amazon’s Prime Day and Black Friday.

Read our fullAmazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED review

Roku Pro Series

Roku’s flagship TVs feature a mini-LED backlight and impressive sound quality and design for a budget-range TV, as highlighted in ourreview. They are more expensive than our under-$500 pick, the Roku Plus Series, but offer superior brightness, lower input lag, and a 120Hz refresh rate, making them a better choice for gaming.

TCL QM8K

TCL’s near-flagship QM8K TVs are a solid alternative to the Hisense U8QG, our selection for best under-$1,000. In ourreview, we noted that it achieves nearly the same high picture brightness as the U8QG, complemented by superior built-in speakers. While QM8K TVs are typically priced higher than the Hisense, the price differences are generally minimal.

Read our fullTCL QM8K review

LG G5

As the flagship model in LG’s OLED TV lineup, the G5 offers similarly high brightness to the Samsung S95F, our choice for the best OLED TV for bright rooms. However, ourreviewfound its anti-reflection screen to be less effective, which led us to select the Samsung for this guide instead. Apart from this, the G5 delivers excellent overall picture quality, features LG’s outstanding webOS smart TV platform, and provides an impressive array of gaming features.

Read our fullLG G5 review

Best TV Brands: A Performance Overview

The landscape of top TV brands has evolved significantly in recent years, with leading manufacturers shifting positions in the market and emerging brands like Hisense and TCL gaining considerable traction. We’ve also seen the re-entry of Panasonic into the US TV market, alongside new players like Roku and Amazon releasing increasingly high-quality sets. Below is a summary of various TV brands, ranked according to their performance in TechRadar’s TV tests.

Samsung

Based on its overall performance in TechRadar’s recent TV reviews, Samsung stands out as the leading TV brand. We consistently rate Samsung TVs highly for their picture quality, though we often note the absence of Dolby Vision HDR support as a drawback. Samsung TVs also excel in gaming performance and features, with each yearly iteration introducing innovative, cutting-edge designs.

LG

LG TVs consistently receive strong commendation in our reviews for their picture quality and features, and they also offer one of the best smart TV platforms in webOS. Gaming performance and features are frequently praised in our LG TV reviews. However, the company significantly lags behind competitors when it comes to mini-LED TVs, instead relying on OLED technology for its top-tier status, which means it offers fewer compelling budget-friendly options.

Sony

Sony transitioned its focus from OLED to mini-LED technology for its flagship TVs last year. The company’s premium models consistently deliver exceptional picture quality, though they are generally pricier than equivalent flagship models from Samsung and LG. Sony TVs also provide outstanding built-in sound quality, though they fall behind the competition in gaming features and performance, despite offering PS5-centric settings.

Hisense and TCL

Hisense and TCL occupy the middle ground in our overall TV brand rankings. Both brands offer a range of high-value TVs, with their top models providing excellent overall picture and sound quality. Performance generally declines as you move down their respective product ranges. Additionally, the gaming features on their TVs are not quite as extensive as those from Samsung and LG. However, when it comes to high-quality, affordable large-screen sets, these two are arguably the current leaders.

Roku and Amazon

Last but certainly not least, Roku and Amazon have both delivered strong performances in our recent reviews. This is particularly true for their mini-LED TVs, which offer impressive picture quality at budget prices. We typically commend Roku TVs for their excellent smart TV interface, which is visually appealing and intuitive to navigate, while Amazon Fire TVs earn high marks for good overall performance and exceptional value.

TV Buying Advice: Understanding the Basics

The process of buying a new TV can involve a multitude of complex terms, many of which are used throughout this guide. To assist you in your decision, here’s a glossary of the most important terms you’ll frequently encounter.

Glossary of TV Tech Terms

120Hz/144Hz/165Hz:This refers to the TV’s ‘refresh rate’ – the maximum number of image frames it can display per second. For example, 120Hz means a maximum of 120 frames per second. Classified as High Frame Rate (HFR), 120Hz is ideal for next-generation gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, and can also enhance sports viewing. While consoles are capped at 120Hz, some TVs support 144Hz or 165Hz for PC gaming.

4K:Also known as Ultra HD (UHD), a 4K image comprises approximately 4,000 horizontal pixels – specifically 3,840 in the UHD standard for streamers and 4K Blu-ray, by 2,160 vertical pixels. This is four times the pixel count found in Full HD TVs. Most streaming services and TVs 43 inches and larger now support 4K.

ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode):A feature primarily for gaming, where a TV automatically switches to the optimal game picture mode/settings upon detecting a connected gaming console.

ATSC 3.0:Also known as “NextGen TV,” this is a broadcast TV standard developed by the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC). It supports 4K resolution, High Dynamic Range, and immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos. ATSC 3.0 is used by broadcast TV stations in the US and requires a TV equipped with an ATSC 3.0-compatible tuner.

ARC:Audio Return Channel. This feature enables audio signals to be transmitted from a TV to an HDMI ARC-supported device, such as a soundbar or AV receiver, via a single HDMI connection.

⤵ Read more key TV tech terms

Backlight:The light source positioned behind the display panel in an LED-based TV. Various backlight types include edge-lit, direct, and full-array.

Color Gamut:The total range of colors a device can display within a specific color space, such as REC.709, BT.2020, and UHDA-P3. A wider color gamut indicates the TV’s ability to render images more accurately to the original source material.

Direct Backlight:A type of backlight situated directly behind a TV’s panel. Direct backlights typically offer superior dimming control and black uniformity (the consistency of black tones across the screen) compared to edge-lit backlights.

Dolby Vision:A High Dynamic Range (HDR) format used to dynamically optimize image contrast on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis. Dolby Vision is widely adopted in movie theaters, 4K Blu-ray releases, streaming services, and video games.

Dolby Atmos:A 3D sound format that integrates height channels to create an enveloping, immersive audio experience. Dedicated speakers produce the most authentic Atmos sound, though some soundbars and built-in TV speakers can also generate impressive ‘virtual’ Atmos sound.

eARC:Enhanced Audio Return Channel. An upgraded version of HDMI ARC that permits the transmission of higher-quality, uncompressed Dolby and DTS audio formats via HDMI from a TV.

Full Array Backlight:An advanced backlight design that enhances local dimming by dividing the backlight into numerous small zones, each capable of individual light level control. This results in superior contrast, increased brightness, and reduced backlight blooming effects.

HDMI:High Definition Multimedia Interface. A cable standard used for transmitting audio and video from a source device to a display. It is currently the standard connector for TVs.

HDMI 2.1:The latest HDMI version, enabling the transmission of higher-quality, uncompressed Dolby and DTS audio formats, 8K video, and increased video frame rates such as 4K at 120Hz or higher for gaming.

HDR:High Dynamic Range. A video format that allows for images with significantly improved brightness, contrast, and color detail. Most modern TVs support some form of HDR, which is utilized for video games, 4K Blu-ray discs, and streaming services.

HDR10:A prevalent and widely supported HDR format found on 4K Blu-ray players, game consoles, TVs, and streaming services. Virtually any TV device supporting HDR will include HDR10 compatibility.

HDR10+:A less commonly supported HDR format offering similar capabilities to Dolby Vision. HDR10+ is supported by TVs from Samsung, Panasonic, TCL, and Hisense, and is used by streaming services like Prime Video.

HLG:Hybrid-Log Gamma. An HDR format co-developed by the BBC and NHK broadcasting services, designed to simultaneously transmit both SDR and HDR signals. It is primarily used for live HDR broadcasting and is supported by virtually every TV.

Input Lag:The time delay between a video or audio signal being transmitted and the relevant device acting upon it. For TVs, it refers to the interval between the TV receiving an image from, say, a games console, and that image appearing on screen. Input lag is measured in milliseconds (ms); lower numbers are better. This specification is crucial for gaming, where a measurement below 15ms is considered optimal.

Local Dimming:A technique used in LED and mini-LED TVs with full array backlights. It involves dimming darker areas of the screen and accentuating brighter areas, utilizing localized dimming to achieve improved contrast.

Mini-LED:A backlight technology that employs minuscule, almost microscopic LEDs, resulting in more efficient and superior dimming and lighting performance compared to standard LED backlights.

Nits (brightness):A unit of measurement for evaluating brightness. Typical peak brightness levels are around 500 nits for LED TVs, roughly 1,000 nits for QLED TVs, between 600 and 2,000 nits for OLED TVs, and mini-LED TVs can reach over 3,000 nits.

Neo QLED:Samsung’s proprietary term for its range of mini-LED TVs, which integrate a QLED display panel with a mini-LED backlight.

OLED:Organic Light Emitting Diode. A display panel type featuring self-emitting pixels that generate their own light, thus eliminating the need for a separate backlight. OLED TVs typically boast deeper, more accurate black levels than other display types because each pixel can be individually dimmed.

QLED:Quantum Light Emitting Diode. An LED display panel enhanced with a coating of ‘nanocrystals’ (quantum dots). This technology enables higher brightness and produces brighter, more vivid colors than the panels used in standard LED TVs.

SDR:Standard Dynamic Range. A video production and display standard with more limited brightness, contrast, and color gamut coverage compared to HDR. Any content produced before the HDR era can be considered SDR.

VRR (Variable Refresh Rate):A technology primarily used in gaming where the display adjusts its frame rate to match that of the source device (e.g., a console or PC). This prevents judder and screen-tearing effects, and is especially beneficial during high frame rate gaming.

How to Choose the Best TV for You

While a myriad of factors could influence your new TV purchase, not everyone needs to delve deep into every technological detail. Here’s the practical advice our editors frequently offer to those (and there are many) who ask them in real-life situations.

First, establish your budget and desired size. Determine the maximum amount you're willing to spend and the screen size you prefer. Then, narrow your search to only those models that satisfy both criteria. You'll likely find your options quickly reduced to a manageable handful, simplifying the decision-making process. If you have a generous budget, consider setting a minimum budget as well – perhaps 30% below your maximum – to help further refine your choices.

When considering TV size, think about its intended installation location. Whether you’re using one of thebest TV wall mountsor simply placing it on a stand, the same TV can look vastly different in each setup.

Next, you’ll need to make a few more decisions. If you’re looking at mid-range or premium options, do you prefer anOLED TVor anLED/mini-LED TV? For sizes 55 inches and above, LED TVs typically offer greater brightness than OLEDs, making them excellent for watching sports or TV during the day in brightly lit rooms. However, for movie nights, OLED TVs are unrivaled due to their superior contrast, though they generally don't achieve the same peak brightness as LED TVs unless you opt for the most expensive models.

If you're buying a mid-range set, you'll need to decide if a120Hz screenis essential. This is fantastic for gamers (particularly those with a PS5 or Xbox Series X) and also beneficial for movies, as it can display more natural motion. However, if saving money is a priority, opting for a60Hz TVmight be a better choice, as 120Hz TVs consistently come at a higher price.

Finally, give some thought to audio. Most modern thin TVs come with relatively weak built-in sound. If you don't mind purchasing one of thebest soundbars(or if you already own one), then this isn't a concern. But if you prefer to avoid additional devices in your setup, focus on TVs we've recommended where we specifically highlight stronger audio performance. Unfortunately, better audio tends to be a feature of higher-end sets, and even then, not all are equally good. Sony and Samsung are typically strong contenders for audio, making them good starting points.

TV Buying FAQs

What is the best TV overall?

That depends on your definition of "quality." We define it as the optimal blend of picture quality, features, design, and price – seeking the TV that offers the most to the broadest range of people at a given price point. For us, that's why theLG C5leads our list. While some TVs might excel in specific areas, none deliver such a comprehensive range of excellent performance at its price.

What is the best premium OLED TV?

Our top premium OLED choice is theSamsung S95F. This is an extremely high-end option, but its super-bright screen combined with its incredible anti-reflection panel delivers results that are worth every penny.

What is the best TV brand?

No single brand universally outperforms all others, but certain TV manufacturers definitely excel in particular areas more than their competitors.

Some of the leading brands on our list includeHisense,LG,Samsung,Sony, andTCL. These generally represent the top-performing brands at the premium end, although all offer a wide array of models each year.

LGalso produces exceptional OLED TVs – in fact, LG Display manufactures the OLED panels for most other brands. We appreciate that LG provides a diverse range of TVs, catering to different budgets and sizes. TheLG C5, for example, ranges from 42 to 83 inches and performs excellently across the board, which is why it's at the top of this list. LG’swebOSis one of our favorite smart TV platforms, lauded for its intuitive and user-friendly operating system. However, LG’s LED TVs generally offer less value compared to Hisense and TCL.

With its advancements inQD-OLEDtechnology,Samsunghas firmly established itself as a serious contender for best OLED TVs, with the impressiveSamsung S95Fdelivering incredible picture quality and performance. Samsung also offers dynamic mini-LEDs that suit most users in bright environments, though Hisense and TCL currently surpass these models in sheer value for 2025.

Sonyis another major player in the TV market. Its screens are celebrated for stunning picture quality and build quality. However, like other brands on this list, there's considerable variation across their range. Sony's TVs tend to command a premium price for similar features compared to other brands here, though Sony TVs often include some of the best built-in sound in the business, offering extra value for that price.

HisenseandTCLare the two manufacturers who have truly disrupted the market, producing mini-LED TVs at astonishingly good prices. These sets deliver remarkable brightness and impressive contrast, along with solid features. Both brands utilizeGoogle TVas their smart platform, ensuring ease of use and support for all major streaming services.

Is OLED better than QLED?

This is one of the most significant and debated TV technology questions right now. Fortunately, we’ve thoroughly covered all the details in ourOLED vs QLED guide.

However, for a concise summary, we would say thatQLEDis an excellent choice for brightness if you plan to watch in bright, sunlit conditions. In contrast,OLED TVsoffer superior viewing angles and unparalleled contrast for stunning, cinematic images, provided you can control the room lighting with most models.

Is 4K better than OLED?

Fortunately, you don’t have to choose between OLED and 4K – you can have both!4Krefers to the resolution (i.e., the number of pixels on the screen), whileOLEDrefers to the panel technology (i.e., what the pixels are made from).

Thus, you can find4K OLEDscreens (almost all OLEDs are 4K, aside from some expensive 8K OLED TVs), and you can also find 4K screens that utilize QLED, mini-LED, or other display technologies.

LG vs Samsung OLED: Which is better?

Both LG and Samsung are exceptional TV brands, and you generally can’t go wrong with either when it comes to OLED. However, the comparison differs outside of OLED technology.

LG’s LED TVs are notably less competitive than Samsung’s, so if you're considering a budget TV or a mini-LED model, Samsung is typically the better choice between these two.

For OLED TVs, we slightly favor Samsung'sS95Fover the equivalent LG G5, primarily due to its superior anti-reflection screen. However, if your viewing primarily occurs in controlled lighting conditions, theLG G5is equally impressive.

We highly value theLG C5’sversatility, as it's available in many different sizes and packed with every gaming feature you could desire, making it an excellent mid-range model. TheSamsung S90Fis also a great OLED TV option at a similar price point, although Samsung has only confirmed that the 65-inch screen size consistently uses the company's QD-OLED display panel.

How We Test TVs at TechRadar

Every TechRadar TV review involves a series of objective tests conducted with specialized testing equipment. These are then complemented by extensive subjective evaluations using both standardized test patterns and real-world content sources, such as 4K Blu-ray, streamed media, and broadcast TV.

For objective measurements, I assess a TV’s peak and fullscreen brightness levels, along with its HDR color gamut coverage. I also measure color and grayscale accuracy, as well as input lag crucial for gaming.

After pinpointing a TV’s most accurate picture preset through objective tests, I conduct a subjective evaluation with that preset activated. This allows for a general assessment of picture quality, considering factors like contrast, black level, screen uniformity, color reproduction, detail, and more. I also evaluate sound quality, features, design, smart TV interface and menus, gaming features and performance, and overall value, with individual scores for each section contributing to the final overall rating.

You can find a fully detailed overview of our methodology inHow we test TVs at TechRadar, but here’s a summary of the key tests we perform:

Brightness Testing

Brightness is an important factor in TV selection for two main reasons. Firstly, High Dynamic Range (HDR) movies and TV shows feature incredibly bright highlights. A TV with high brightness capabilities will be better equipped to reproduce these highlights, imparting an enhanced sense of depth and realism to the picture. Secondly, brighter TVs generally perform better in well-lit viewing environments, which is often the case when watching sports or gaming.

Color Gamut Coverage Tests

I measure color gamut coverage to gauge the range of colors a TV can display. These results are recorded as a percentage, with a 100% score confirming the TV can render the full spectrum of colors contained in video content with HDR.

Color gamut coverage tests involve two distinct measurements: UHDA-P3 and BT.2020. The first assesses how accurately the TV tracks the UHDA-P3 color space, which is used for mastering 4K Blu-ray and digital cinema releases. The second, BT.2020, represents a more future-oriented standard, though some newer displays, such as RGB laser projectors and RGB mini-LED TVs, are already capable of displaying the full BT.2020 color spectrum.

Grayscale and Color Accuracy Tests

I conduct grayscale and color accuracy tests to evaluate how well a TV can match the visual intent of the director when a movie was mastered in post-production. These measurements are performed with the TV set to its most accurate picture preset—typically Filmmaker Mode, Movie, or Cinema. The tests provide Delta-E values (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what is displayed on-screen) that indicate the TV’s level of accuracy. Any result under 3 is generally regarded as indistinguishable to the human eye from the source and is considered excellent.

Input Lag Tests

Input lag refers to the time elapsed between a source sending a signal to a display and the display showing it on screen. A low input lag time is a critical factor for competitive gaming, with a result of 13ms or lower generally considered acceptable.

To test input lag, I set the TV to its Game picture preset and use a specialized meter that outputs a test signal to the TV’s HDMI input. The meter is placed on the TV’s screen and measures the time it takes to detect the signal, with the result displayed in milliseconds.

Latest Updates to This Guide

Meet the Expert Author

Al Griffinhas been covering and reviewing A/V technology since the era of LaserDiscs and previously held the position of editor at Sound & Vision magazine.

When he's not busy evaluating the latest and greatest gear or enjoying films at home, you’ll typically find him out cycling.