The appeal of a cinematic experience at home has never been more possible, especially with the growing popularity of 4K TVs. These marvels of technology bring lifelike images right into the living room, turning movie nights into immersive adventures. Before upgrading an entire home entertainment setup, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of selecting a 4K TV. For those looking to enhance their gaming setup, a 4K TV can be a game-changer.
Pairing a 4K TV with an amazing gaming console elevates the gaming experience, offering unparalleled graphics and realism. Whether it’s fast-paced action or cinematic RPGs, a top-tier 4K TV can transform gaming into a truly immersive experience. To help users make the right choice, Game Rant has curated the best 4K TVs that should meet the expectations and budget of every consumer.
How to Choose the Best 4K TV
Welcome to the exciting, cinematic world of 4K TVs! Picking the right 4K TV involves understanding key factors that determine the viewing experience. Here’s a closer look at each critical aspect to help guide making an informed decision.
Screen Size and Viewing Distance: The balance between screen size and viewing distance is pivotal. A larger screen provides an immersive experience, but too large for a given space can be overwhelming. Ideally, for a 4K TV, a viewing distance of approximately 1.5 times the screen’s diagonal measurement offers the best balance.
Panel Technology and Picture Quality: Different panel technologies like OLED, QLED, and LED offer unique viewing experiences. OLED stands out for deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it ideal for viewing in dark rooms. QLED, on the other hand, excels in brighter rooms with its luminous display. LED is a budget-friendly option that still delivers decent picture quality.
Smart Features and Connectivity: Smart features and connectivity options extend a 4K TV’s utility beyond traditional viewing. Compatibility with popular streaming services, ease of connecting with other devices, and user-friendly interfaces are crucial. These features ensure the 4K TV is a versatile hub for entertainment.
Here are Game Rant’s Best 4K TVs in 2024
VIZIO 50-inch MQX Series Premium 4K TV
Best Overall 4K TV
$607 $620 Save $13
This Vizio MQX Series 4K television comes with a 50-inch display panel with QLED technology. The Quantum Color technology allows increased color performance in a 4K resolution with the use of Active Full Array Backlight technology and local dimming. The TV supports Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+ for vibrant high dynamic range content.
Vizio’s smart TV platform allows easy access to millions of titles from popular streaming channels and other apps. With Vizio WatchFree+, there are also over 250 live-streaming channels for free.
- Brand
- Vizio
- Display Size
- 50″
- Dimensions
- 10″D x 43.8″W x 25.5″H
- Display Resolution
- 4K
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Quantum Color technology for vibrant
- 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth motion for gaming
- Integrated smart platform to easily access streaming services
- Heavier than some models
- Requires calibration for optimal picture quality
The VIZIO 50-inch MQX Series Premium 4K TV, crowned as the best overall in its 4K class, redefines home cinema with its cutting-edge Quantum Color technology. This technology, combined with Active Full Array Backlight and local dimming, provides an unparalleled visual experience with deep blacks and vibrant colors. The TV’s 120Hz refresh rate caters to gamers and movie enthusiasts alike, ensuring smooth motion in fast-paced scenes. Plus, with Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+ support, viewers can enjoy a wide range of content in a stunning high dynamic range.
While this TV is a powerhouse in picture quality, it does have a few limitations. For instance, the limited viewing angles might diminish the experience for larger groups. Additionally, achieving the highest picture quality requires some initial calibration, which may be a task for less tech-savvy viewers. Despite these points, the VIZIO MQX Series stands as a top contender in the 4K TV market, providing exceptional value and a premium viewing experience that will please fans of all genres.
Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K TV
Best Entry-Level 4K TV
This 50-inch 4-Series Fire TV from Amazon features a high-resolution display that supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus. Thanks to the Fire TV platform, it has access to all the popular apps and streaming services with a catalog of over a million movies and TV show episodes from the likes of Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more.
- Brand
- Amazon Fire TV
- Display Size
- 50′
- Operating System
- Fire TV OS
- Display Type
- VA
- Display Resolution
- 3840 x 2160
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, 3 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x HDMI eARC 2.1
- Refresh rate
- 60 Hz
- Weight
- 20.6 lb
- Integrated Fire TV OS offers seamless access to streaming services
- Compatible with Ring cameras for enhanced smart home integration
- Value for money, offering high-end features at an entry-level price
- Mixed reviews on performance and speed
- Sound quality may not meet all users’ expectations
The Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K TV stands as a testament to entry-level excellence, offering a high-quality 4K experience at a price point that is accessible to a broader audience. Its 3840 x 2160 resolution, bolstered by HDR 10 and HLG, delivers vivid and dynamic picture quality. Additionally, the integration of Fire TV OS not only provides a vast array of streaming options but also facilitates easy smart home integration, even with Ring cameras. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a smart and affordable 4K TV.
However, it’s important to consider some of the drawbacks. While the TV shines in terms of value and picture quality, some users have noted mixed experiences with its performance and speed. The sound quality, too, may require an external sound system to meet the expectations of audiophiles truly. Despite these considerations, the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series remains a compelling option for those entering the world of 4K TVs, thanks to its balance of features and affordability, thus earning its position as the best entry-level 4K TV.
Samsung S90C OLED 4K
Best OLED 4K TV
$1800 $2600 Save $800
The Samsung S90c packs some exciting gaming features for a smart TV. It supports streaming on platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Xbox. It packs Samsung’s OLED technology along with 4K resolution and a native refresh rate of 120 Hz. Among its strong points are the Neural Quantum Processor with 4K upscaling, Quantum HDR OLED, and Real Depth Enhancer. It features the Samsung Gaming Hub where gamers can play console games and check out game streaming apps.
- Dimensions
- 10.5″D x 56.9″W x 35.3″H
- Display Technology
- QD-OLED
- What’s Included
- User Manual, E-Manual, Power Cable, Remote Control
- Brand
- Samsung
- Refresh Rate
- 144Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- HDR?
- Yes
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- Yes, FreeSync Premium Pro
- 4K resolution ensures stunning picture clarity
- Neural Quantum Processor for exceptional image upscaling
- Gaming Hub offers an enriched cloud gaming experience
- Some users find the remote lacking in features
- Premium pricing compared to standard 4K TVs
The Samsung S90C OLED 4K Smart TV is a marvel in the world of OLED technology, earning its spot as the best OLED 4K TV. With its 4K resolution paired with a 120Hz native refresh rate, viewers are treated to a visual feast of vivid colors and deep blacks. The Quantum HDR and Neural Quantum Processor elevate every scene to a near-photorealistic quality, making this TV a favorite among viewers. Its Real Depth Enhancer adds a new layer of immersion to the viewing experience, making it a top choice for both movie enthusiasts and gamers.
While the Samsung S90C OLED 4K excels in many areas, it’s important to consider its premium price point and the need for a potential additional sound system to achieve the best audio quality. Some users have also expressed a preference for a more feature-rich remote control. However, these minor drawbacks don’t diminish its standing as a top contender in the OLED category. Fans of high-quality visuals and gaming enthusiasts will find the Samsung S90C OLED 4K to be a worthwhile investment, thanks to its plethora of features and exceptional performance.
TCL 65-inch Class S4 4K LED TV
Best Mid-Range 4K TV
The TCL S4 4K follows the path of other TCL TVs and delivers excellent value at a rational price point. Buyers get to experience superior picture quality thanks to the TV’s 4K resolution. With Fire TV OS built-in, users can perform many tasks ranging from launching apps to finding content through Alexa. There is also a wide range of content across diverse streaming services to explore. Gaming on this TV is also great, with Auto Game Mode enhancing the settings to reduce high input lag.
- Dimensions
- 3.6″D x 65.7″W x 37.8″H
- Display Technology
- LED
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi, HDMI
- What’s Included
- Stand, Remote Control, 2x Remote Control Batteries, Power Cord, Quick Start Guide
- Brand
- TCL
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- HDR?
- Yes
- 4K resolution delivers superior picture quality
- Supports remote voice control using Alexa
- Auto Game Mode optimizes settings for lag-free gaming
- No HDMI 2.1 port
- No local dimming
Intended to whet the appetite of viewers on a modest budget, the TCL 65-inch TV offers four times the resolution of a 1080p TV with a dazzling 4K picture quality. This makes for a lovely viewing experience, whether it’s a movie or a gaming session. While not in the same class as premium 4K TVs, buyers will hardly feel cheated by the S4’s performance. Using HDR technology, this TV helps viewers to see precise details in movies and games, even when a scene is too dark or bright.
The TC S4 ships with Fire TV OS, bringing one of the best smart TV interfaces to the home. Feel free to ask Alexa to launch an app, search for a certain movie, and more using the remote’s voice feature. To help buyers tap into an immersive listening experience, the TV supports Dolby Atmos. Alternatively, buyers can opt to listen privately to music, movies, or the pulsating sounds of an action game using Bluetooth headphones. Speaking of gaming, players can take those crucial in-game actions without worrying about delays due to high input lag. Auto Game Mode automatically optimizes the TV’s settings for responsive gameplay.
Samsung S95B 65-inch 4K OLED TV
Best High-End 4K TV
$1600 $3000 Save $1400
The Samsung S95B is Samsung’s first attempt to push an OLED-based TV as it merges its QD (Quantum Dot) technology along with the benefits of an OLED TV to provide a more nuanced experience. This TV has better ABL handling and a more vivid picture thanks to its reliance on red, green, and blue subpixels to drive better color reproduction versus older WOLED tech.
- Dimensions
- 56.9″ x 35.1″ x 11.3″
- Display Technology
- QD-OLED
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi 5 + Bluetooth 5.2
- What’s Included
- Remote Controller, Batteries, Power Plug, Manual, E-Manual
- Brand
- Samsung
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz Native
- Resolution
- 4K Ultra HD (3,840 x 2,160)
- HDR?
- Yes, Quantum HDR OLED, HDR10+ Certified
- Ports
- HDMI 2.1 (4 ports), 2 USB, Optical audio output
- Weight
- 57.3lbs
- FreeSync
- Yes, Premium Pro
- G-SYNC
- Yes
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- Yes
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
- Yes
- QD-OLED display offers exceptional picture quality
- Supports many gaming features Nvidia G-Sync
- 120Hz native refresh rate for smooth, lifelike motion
- Quite pricey for budget-conscious users
For those seeking a top 4K TV, the Samsung S95B 65-inch 4K OLED TV is distinguished as the best high-end option. This TV is a true standout in the world of 4K entertainment. Its QD-OLED display not only delivers stunning 4K Ultra HD resolution but also excels in color reproduction and brightness, thanks to Quantum HDR OLED technology and HDR10+ certification. This TV is particularly appealing to gamers, with its 120Hz native refresh rate and support for advanced gaming features like FreeSync Premium Pro, G-SYNC, VRR, and ALLM.
The S95B excels in picture quality and gaming features, although users have noted some concerns. A notable issue is the random shutdowns experienced by some, which can interrupt viewing and gaming experiences. Additionally, opinions are mixed regarding the ease of installation and sound quality. However, its exceptional visual performance, combined with its sleek design and comprehensive connectivity options, solidifies its position in the best 4K TVs list.
Toshiba 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K TV
Best Budget 4K TV
$220 $280 Save $60
The Toshiba Class C350 Series LED 4K TV keeps content in one place, thanks to Fire TV. Whether it’s live, over-the-air TV, streaming channels, or other favorite apps, users can access them all on the home screen. The Regza Engine 4K, Toshiba’s high-performance 4K engine, combines ultra-essential PQ technology with a high-quality LCD panel to produce stunning picture quality.
With four times the resolution of Full HD, the Toshiba 4K TV provides uncompromisingly crisp, clear visuals for a fully immersive experience. Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 transform TVs into true entertainment powerhouses, offering an amazing realism users will see, hear, and feel like never before.
- Dimensions
- 2.9″D x 37.9″W x 22″H
- Display Technology
- LED
- Connectivity Technology
- Coaxial
- Brand
- Toshiba
- Refresh Rate
- 120
- Resolution
- 4K
- Ports
- 3 HDMI
- Regza Engine 4K for high-quality picture performance
- Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 support enhancing visual depth
- Multiple connectivity options
- 43-inch screen might be small for some viewers
- Limited to LED technology
The Toshiba 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K TV, hailed as the best budget option, offers a high-performance visual feast without breaking the bank. Its Regza Engine 4K and 120Hz refresh rate ensure vibrant colors and sharp, fluid motion, bringing a premium viewing experience to the budget-conscious consumer. The inclusion of Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 support adds depth and dimension to every scene, making this TV a standout choice for movie buffs, casual viewers, and gamers.
While the 43-inch screen size may not suit larger rooms, it’s a perfect fit for smaller spaces or as a secondary TV. The user-friendly interface, praised by customers, makes setup and navigation easy, though some may find it less intuitive. Despite its impressive visuals, users might want to pair it with an external sound system for a more robust audio experience. Overall, the Toshiba 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K TV is a top pick in its budget class, offering a balance of quality, functionality, and affordability.
Sony X80K 65-inch 4K LED TV
Best 4K TV for PS5
$800 $850 Save $50
The 65-inch Sony X80K is a great TV for the PlayStation 5 primarily because it ships with exclusive features for the phenomenal game console. Furthermore, it also features Google TV’s Game Menu, a hub for customizing gameplay settings like motion blur reduction and crosshair. Aside from gaming purposes, the X80K also allows casting, streaming, the upscaling of near-4K content to 4K resolution, and more.
- Dimensions
- 13.38″D x 57.25″W x 35.75″H
- Display Technology
- LED
- Brand
- Sony
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- What’s Included
- Stand, Remote Control, Power Cable
- Weight
- 49.8 lbs
- Exclusive PlayStation 5 features
- Upscales non-4K content to near-4K quality
- Game Menu lets users personalize gameplay settings
- 43-inch screen might be small for some viewers
- Limited to LED technology
The Sony X80K 65-inch 4K LED TV is perfect for those looking to pair it with a PlayStation 5. This TV not only showcases stellar picture quality with its 4K upscaling but also includes Google TV’s Game Menu, allowing for a tailored gaming experience. Fans of Sony’s gaming consoles will appreciate the exclusive PlayStation 5 features, like Auto HDR Tone Mapping, which fine-tunes HDR settings to allow players to see fine details and realistic colors when gaming.
Although this TV excels in many aspects, especially for PlayStation gamers, it does have a few limitations worth mentioning. The 60 Hz refresh rate, while sufficient for most content, may not meet the demands of high-frame-rate gaming. Connectivity issues have been a concern for some users, and the sound quality, though decent, might benefit from external audio solutions. Despite these points, the Sony X80K stands as a remarkable choice for its category, offering a well-rounded package for gamers and movie lovers alike.
FAQ
Q: Are 4K TVs good for gaming?
Indeed, 4K TVs are excellent for gaming, offering higher resolution and often coming with gaming-centric features like low input lag and high refresh rates.
Q: Is OLED or QLED better for 4K TVs?
Both OLED and QLED have their merits for 4K TVs. OLED offers superior contrast and black levels, while QLED shines in brightness and color vibrancy.
Q: Are all 4K TVs smart TVs?
Most 4K TVs are smart TVs, equipped with built-in internet connectivity and apps for streaming, but there are exceptions.
