Nowadays, almost every television set with a screen of at least 32 inches is available in 4K Resolution for prices that are basically equivalent to older, low-resolution 1080p TVs, so 4K is no longer an expensive magnifying feature available only on a high-end TV. If you are buying a 50 inch or larger screen, it is difficult to find any model that it is not 4K
The best 4K TV screen may be more affordable than you think. The popular TCL 4-Series, which I like very much as a basic option, starts with a $ 230 TV budget for the 43-inch model. O 65 inch version dropped to less than $ 500.
Here’s the thing: 4K resolution on a screen doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get great image quality. All those millions of pixels – 8,294,440 to be exact – don’t have much impact on the image’s appearance. The best performing TVs in our analysis and the best TVs for the money stand out in other areas of image quality, such as contrast, dynamic range and HDR performance. They have 4K resolution too, but that’s basically what’s at stake these days.
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The list below represents the best 4K TVs (which are, let’s face it, the best TVs, period) I analyzed it at the CNET test lab, where I compare them side by side to see which ones are more worth buying. I considered factors such as image quality, design, smart TV functionality, connectivity and more. Here are my most recent recommendations, with the following notes to keep in mind:
Sarah Tew / CNET
No TV I’ve ever tested offers so much picture quality for that money. The 2020 TCL 6-Series has even better image quality than its predecessor, thanks to well-implemented mini-LED technology and full-array local dimming that helps it circulate on almost any other TV at this price. It is also a solid choice for players with a new THX mode that combines low input delay and high contrast. As if that were not enough, the Roku TV operating system is our absolute favorite.
Sizes: 55-, 65-, 75 inches. Read our review of the TCL 6 series (2020 Roku TV).
David Katzmaier / CNET
What did you say? Do you just want the best TV, money without a problem? Here it is. In my side-by-side tests, the 2020 LG CX is the best TV I have ever reviewed, with worldwide contrast, perfect out-of-angle vision and excellent uniformity. If you can afford it, this is the right TV.
Sizes: 48-, 55-, 65-, 77 inches. Read our review of the LG OLEDCX series.
In addition to the TCL 6 series above, this is the best TV for the money. TCL has a better image and a better smart TV system, so it’s a superior TV overall, but it’s also a few hundred dollars more expensive. If you can’t afford the Series 6, this Vizio is a great runner-up. Read our review of the Vizio M7-Series Quantum (2020).
Sarah Tew / CNET
If you value the Sony brand, the X900H is an excellent choice, with image quality on the same level as the TCL 6 Series and a price that does not This one Much more expensive. And your connection pool is actually better than TCL. In the winter of 2020, it will have 4K / 120Hz HDMI input capability to maximize the potential of the new Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, and is now the cheapest TV that works with ATSC 3.0 antenna broadcasts. Read our review of the Sony XBR-X900H series.
Sarah Tew / CNET
Roku is our favorite platform for viewing content with Netflix live TV streaming apps, and it’s an even better experience when integrated into your TV. This Ultra HD TV from the TCL 4 series cannot beat any of the above models in image quality – its 4K resolution and HDR compatibility do nothing to improve the image – but it is perfectly suited for most people, especially at this price.
Sizes: 43-, 50-, 55-, 65-, 75 inches. (The price shown below is for the 50 inch size.) Read our review of the TCL S425 series (Roku TV).
Sarah Tew / CNET
TCL’s Series 8 also features mini LEDs and the result is excellent contrast, brightness and high dynamic range that outperforms the less expensive Series 6 in my side-by-side comparison. The overall image quality does not reach OLED levels, but it comes very close and costs a lot less, especially at the size of 75 inches.
Sizes: 65-, 75 inches. Read our review of the TCL 8 series (2019 Roku TV).
Other things you should know about buying a new 4K TV
I’m sure you would be happy with any of the TVs above, but a new set can be a big investment, so maybe you’re looking for more information. Here is a quick and dirty list.
- In my opinion, the bigger the better. Big TVs are cheaper than ever and your money is better spent on big screens than a small upgrade in picture quality.
- If you don’t like the integrated smart TV system, you can add a media streamer. They are cheap and easy to use and receive updates more often than most smart TVs. See our picks of the best media streamers.
- Most of the built-in speakers sound awful, so it’s worth pairing your new set with a soundbar or other speaker system. The good ones start at around $ 100. See the best soundbars.
Looking for even more information? Here’s everything to know about buying a new TV in 2021.
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TCL 6-Series Roku TV review: Brighter and better than …
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