Buying Guide: The Best TVs for 2024

In the past, when purchasing a new TV, resolution held significant importance. However, the current TV market has witnessed a shift in this trend. Initially, consumers had to choose between 720p (1,280 by 720 pixels) and 1080p (1,920 by 1,080 pixels). This dilemma evolved into a choice between 1080p and Ultra HD, or 4K (3,840 by 2,160 pixels, equating to over eight million pixels). Presently, the resolution question has become obsolete, with 4K emerging as the standard for medium-sized and larger televisions across all major manufacturers.

Interestingly, the higher resolution no longer demands a premium price, and one can easily find a 65-inch 4K TV for under $1,000. With some compromises, it's even possible to assemble an entire home theater for the same budget. In reality, it's challenging to locate a TV larger than 40 inches from a reputable brand that isn't 4K. Almost every TV on the market (with one exception) is now 4K.

Most 4K TVs come equipped with connected features for streaming 4K content. Smart TV platforms like Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, and Roku TV have empowered various TV brands to incorporate smart TV functionalities without developing their first-party systems, as LG, Samsung, and Vizio have done. These platforms offer a plethora of features, granting access to major streaming services, along with additional perks such as voice assistants, local media streaming, and a diverse range of apps. If the desired apps or services are not available on the TV, users have the option to connect a separate 4K media streamer to an HDMI 2.0 port to bridge that gap.

Now, you can enjoy Apple AirPlay 2 on the latest TVs from LG, Samsung, Sony, and Vizio, as well as all Roku media streamers, including Roku TVs. Additionally, it's accessible on various Google TVs, such as those produced by Hisense and TCL. With this cool feature, you can effortlessly stream content from your iPhone or iPad directly to the TV, making your viewing experience even more convenient.

What's even better is that Apple has expanded its reach by offering the Apple TV app, featuring the Apple TV+ service, on all major smart TV platforms. This means you can enjoy Apple's video content on almost any TV without needing an Apple TV 4K box, which used to be a requirement.

Nowadays, you can easily access 4K content on numerous streaming platforms and Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, despite its limited integration into broadcast or cable TV services (you can find more information on the ATSC 3.0 standard for details). With a speedy internet connection, you have the opportunity to enjoy high-quality shows on Amazon and Netflix in stunning 4K resolution. Most new original programming on these services is now produced at this enhanced resolution. Additionally, the latest films are being released digitally in 4K through various on-demand streaming services, expanding the options for those seeking top-notch visual experiences.

Ultra HD Blu-ray discs are a cool physical media option that can store 4K HDR content and are pretty easy to find. Just keep in mind that your current Blu-ray player won't do the trick; you'll need a separate Ultra HD Blu-ray player, a Microsoft Xbox Series X (or if you can get your hands on one, an Xbox One S/X), or a Sony PlayStation 5 to handle this format. The great thing about Ultra HD Blu-ray is that it not only stores 4K video with HDR (more on that below), but it also supports advanced surround sound if your speaker system is up for it.

The best part? Unlike streaming, you physically own this piece of media, and there's no need for an internet connection or a subscription. However, it's worth noting that Ultra HD Blu-ray releases are a bit limited, especially outside of major new movies. So, if you're itching to watch your favorite hidden gem, you might have to settle for 1080p or even 480p with a regular Blu-ray or DVD.

Should You Wait for 8K?

Take a breather from the 8K hype for now, despite the buzz and the fact that the HDMI 2.1 standard is on board with it. 8K resolution stands at 7,680 by 4,320 pixels, which is four times the pixel count of 4K. While 8K TVs are currently on the market as premium models, boasting a heftier price tag compared to their 4K counterparts (including the already pricey OLED TVs), they won't hold significant value for consumers for a few more years. Unless you're swimming in cash, there's little reason to consider investing in one at the moment.

Furthermore, there is currently no 8K media readily accessible for consumers, and major studios or distributors haven't broached the subject of releasing 8K movies or shows. The absence of established physical or streaming media standards capable of supporting commercial 8K releases adds to the limitation. Even if you manage to get your hands on an 8K TV, the most you can expect is to watch upconverted 4K video on it. Therefore, for the time being, there's no need to fret about 8K swiftly replacing 4K; such a transition is unlikely to happen anytime soon.

Is a 4K HDR TV Worth It?

Opting for 4K is a no-brainer, but when you're in the market for a TV, it's worth considering the next-level video technology—High Dynamic Range (HDR). HDR content delivers significantly more information to the display compared to a standard video signal, even though the resolution remains the same. The magic happens in the broader range of colors and the increased amount of light each pixel can emit.

Thanks to advancements in LCD and OLED panel technology, top-tier televisions can now showcase wider color gamuts and finer gradations of light and dark than ever before. Standard video was originally designed around the constraints of older cathode ray tube televisions, deliberately using a limited range of color and light information in the signal. HDR breaks free from these limitations by employing expanded ranges with finer values in between. In simpler terms, HDR displays can produce a more extensive array of colors and a greater variety of shades of gray (or, more accurately, luminance values) compared to standard dynamic range displays.

Currently, there are three prominent HDR standards featuring commercially accessible content: Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+. HDR10 operates as an open platform employing 10-bit color values. The UHD Alliance grants certification to televisions meeting the HDR10 standard, which also includes specific minimum brightness and contrast ratios, labeling them as UltraHD Premium. In contrast, Dolby Vision represents a closed standard developed by Dolby.

It supports 12-bit color and dynamically determines signal ranges for a display based on the display's characteristics and the scene's requirements. Televisions equipped with Dolby Vision typically showcase this feature prominently on their packaging.

While there are additional HDR standards and variations available, none have achieved the widespread acceptance of HDR10 and Dolby Vision. An example is Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG), a standard jointly developed by the BBC and Japanese broadcaster NHK. HLG is noteworthy for its backward compatibility with standard dynamic range TVs.

Samsung introduced HDR10+, incorporating variable metadata to adjust brightness, altering the display range of bright and dark scenes throughout a video. This is Samsung's alternative to Dolby Vision, a standard they curiously opt not to include on their TVs in favor of their proprietary format.

Although HDR content is generally less common than Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) Ultra HD content, it remains readily available, especially for new shows and films on major streaming services. HDR is supported by Ultra HD Blu-rays, as well as streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Max, and others, adopting both HDR10 and/or Dolby Vision.

Determining which standard is superior is challenging at this point; HDR10 employs more tangible values and is easier to technically assess, whereas Dolby Vision is tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the television being used. Whether HDR10 or Dolby Vision, televisions capable of HDR deliver a superior picture compared to those that lack support for wider color gamuts or increased luminance information.

What Is the Best Time to Buy a TV?

Typically, manufacturers unveil their latest TV models in January (we observed numerous releases at CES 2023), but these models typically don't become available on store shelves until the spring or summer. This creates a robust three- or four-month window where consumers are aware of the upcoming TV releases. If, during this time, you come across significant discounts for the previous year's models and our reviews confirm their performance, it's a smart move to consider purchasing them.

Stay alert for sales during major sporting events such as the Super Bowl or the kickoff of football season. During these times, you could stumble upon discounts of a few hundred dollars or more. As with any sales event, be sure to take note of the specific TV models being offered. Different tiers and series of TVs can exhibit significant variations in performance.

While Black Friday often boasts substantial price cuts, especially on budget or midrange televisions, it's essential to be cautious. Despite the apparent large discounts, the picture quality of these TVs may not match up to higher-end models. Thoroughly check the model numbers against reviews to gauge whether the discounted price is genuinely worth it.

Are Cheap TVs Worth the Price?

Opting for budget-priced TVs can be tempting, particularly if you're yet to embrace 4K and are hesitant about shelling out over $1,000. However, exercise caution when encountering enticing deals on TVs, even if they boast 4K HDR capabilities. It could turn out to be a fantastic bargain, or it might lead to disappointment.

The performance of budget TVs varies significantly and tends to lean toward the average. While you may stumble upon some gems, such as the Hisense U6K, which offers an impressive blend of picture quality and affordability, you're also likely to encounter a multitude of inexpensive TVs that fall short in one aspect or another.

Don't assume that renowned brands consistently deliver high quality in their budget TV lines. While LG, Samsung, and Sony are known for crafting exceptional flagship TVs, their affordable models typically don't surpass baseline offerings from budget-focused brands like Hisense and TCL—and they often come with a slightly higher price tag. As usual, consulting our reviews, which include detailed picture quality tests, can guide you in finding a screen that doesn't compromise quality for affordability.

What Is the Best OLED TV?

Around two decades ago, Plasma TVs were the sole option for flat-panel models. However, this category is now obsolete, and you won't find any major television manufacturer selling new plasma models. Consequently, your choices in the current market largely boil down to LED-backlit LCD TVs, often simply referred to as LED TVs, or the less common and pricier OLED displays.

A quick clarification: LCD and LED TVs are distinct despite both utilizing LCD panels that necessitate some form of illumination. While traditional LCD TVs employ cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs) for this purpose, the more prevalent LED TVs use LEDs.

There are additional distinctions in the various designs of LED TVs. LED TVs can fall into either the category of edge-lit or backlit. Edge-lit TVs illuminate their screens using arrays of LEDs positioned along the edges of the panels, resulting in a thin and lightweight design. On the other hand, backlit TVs employ a sizable array of LEDs positioned directly behind the panel.

This choice in design may make the screen slightly thicker, but it ensures more uniform illumination and, for high-end screens, the capacity to adjust individual LEDs for enhanced black levels. While very capable edge-lighting systems can produce excellent pictures, TV manufacturers are progressively reducing the size and thickness of backlit LED arrays, diminishing the significance of this distinction compared to the past. Regardless of the technology employed, the thinness and brightness of an LED TV are generally proportionate to its price.

OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays represent a rare and notably expensive technology in the realm of TVs. Despite their name, they differ significantly from LED-backlit televisions and share more similarities with plasma screens in their functioning. Each diode in OLED generates both color and light, similar to plasma screens, but these diodes can be much smaller and thinner than even panels lit by LEDs.

This characteristic allows OLED displays to achieve exceptionally impressive black levels. Initially, LG and Sony were the exclusive manufacturers offering OLED models. However, Vizio joined the market three years ago, and in 2022, Samsung made its entry into the OLED TV segment. In 2023, Samsung introduced the S95C, the brightest OLED TV observed thus far.

What Size TV Should You Get?

Optimal TV viewing is not solely determined by screen size, as having a large TV too close or a small one too far away can be equally discomforting. It's a misconception that the biggest screen available is always the best choice. Consideration of the viewing distance is crucial, and there are general guidelines for determining the suitable TV screen size based on your proximity.

Typically, the distance between your couch and your TV should range between 1.2 and 1.6 times the diagonal measurement of your screen. For example, if your couch is six feet away from your screen, an ideal TV size would fall between 42 and 60 inches. Alternatively, if your couch is five feet away, a screen size ranging from 37 to 52 inches should provide an enjoyable viewing experience.

What Is a Good TV Refresh Rate and Contrast Ratio?

When narrowing down your TV choices, one of the most significant challenges is dealing with the multitude of specifications. To simplify your decision-making process, it's safe to overlook two major factors: refresh rate and contrast ratio.

The contrast ratio refers to the distinction between the deepest black and the brightest white that a panel can exhibit. In theory, a higher contrast ratio is preferable as it contributes to a superior picture quality by showcasing dark blacks and vivid whites. However, there is no standardized method for manufacturers to measure this specification, leading to a competitive environment where vendors strive to claim the highest ratios to make their TVs appear more attractive.

Historically, OLED TVs were the only models capable of achieving an "infinite" contrast ratio with a flawless black level. Yet, recent advancements in mini LED backlight systems, as seen in Samsung's flagship LED models, have also enabled impeccable black levels without noticeable light blooms. We employ a consistent measurement process for contrast ratios across all TVs, ensuring the reliability of our reported figures.

What Is the Best Smart TV?

Most TVs nowadays come equipped with web apps and built-in Wi-Fi through smart TV platforms. These functionalities enable you to connect your television to the internet, granting access to various online streaming services like Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV, and YouTube. Many TVs also incorporate social network services such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, several manufacturers provide downloadable app ecosystems that offer a range of programs and games for use on your TV.

While companies like LG, Samsung, and Vizio develop their proprietary systems, others like Hisense, Sony, and TCL opt for third-party systems like Google TV and Roku TV to furnish their TVs with apps and online services.

While these apps are available on affordable media streaming devices, they are not essential. Nevertheless, having a user-friendly interface that provides access to the services you desire proves convenient and eliminates the need to purchase any additional devices.

What Are the Different TV Connections?

Ideally, a television should offer sufficient video connections not only for current needs but also for anticipated requirements in the future. The primary input to consider is HDMI, a versatile interface supporting various digital video sources like Blu-ray players, game consoles, set-top boxes, and PCs through a single cable.

While most TVs feature three or four HDMI ports, some may only have two. If you are opting for a 4K screen, it's crucial to ensure that the HDMI ports are at least HDMI 2.0, which is the current standard and enables support for 4K video at 60 frames per second. Older HDMI ports may only handle 4K at a maximum of 30 frames per second. HDMI 2.1, on the other hand, supports higher resolutions and faster refresh rates, but its necessity is limited for most currently available content.

When it comes to cables, unless you have an extensive home theater system with plans to run cables over distances exceeding 25 feet (and that's being generous), the brand and price typically don't make a significant difference. Our comparisons of high-end and budget cables have shown that they all effectively transmit digital signals.

While pricier cables may boast better build quality, there are no discernible performance advantages. Avoid shopping for HDMI cables at retail stores, and disregard any warnings from clerks about "dirty electricity" or "viruses" associated with cheaper cables—both claims I've encountered. Instead, go online to find the most budget-friendly cable in the size you require and make your purchase.

HDMI also accommodates the highest-quality home theater audio standards, although using it often means sacrificing a port that could otherwise serve as a video input. Most TVs feature an HDMI port equipped with an Audio Return Channel (ARC), clearly indicated on the back. ARC facilitates the transmission of audio from the TV to a connected soundbar or speaker system over HDMI, supporting compressed 5.1-channel surround sound, similar to optical connections.

However, newer TVs now incorporate enhanced versions of ARC, known as eARC, which deliver superior audio quality and additional features compared to optical or standard ARC. eARC can handle uncompressed multi-channel sound, including spatial audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. In essence, if you intend to use these more advanced surround systems instead of discrete channel feeds, opting for eARC is essential.

For users with legacy devices predating the era of HDTVs, certain new TVs may still provide compatibility. While not standard, many TVs offer composite or component video inputs suitable for connecting VCRs and older game systems. Some TVs may feature groups of full-sized RCA ports, but more commonly, you'll encounter 3.5mm ports designed for use with included dongles that convert the 3.5mm connection to three RCA ports for composite video or five RCA ports for component video.

Should You Calibrate Your TV?

The majority of contemporary TVs are sufficiently accurate upon initial setup, eliminating the need for calibration.

However, if you've invested significantly in your new TV, you might consider calibrating it to achieve the optimal picture quality. Professional calibrations often come with a hefty price tag, potentially costing hundreds of dollars. However, if you possess a high-end home theater, especially one you hired someone to design, this could be a worthwhile additional expense.

An alternative is to utilize the Apple TV's Color Balance feature, although it falls short of professional calibration and solely impacts the output of the Apple TV device (not the Apple TV app).

And, of course, remember to disable motion smoothing—the effect that can make everything resemble a soap opera—unless you're watching sports.

Which Sound System Is Best for TV?

Television sets come equipped with built-in speakers that serve their purpose adequately for clear dialogue comprehension. However, beyond that, they typically lack the immersive audio experience desired for movies and gaming. In most cases, enhancing your viewing and gaming enjoyment can be achieved significantly by incorporating an external speaker system, such as a soundbar or a dedicated multi-channel home theater system.

For those constrained by space or on a limited budget, a soundbar is the optimal choice. Soundbars are sleek, self-contained speakers that can be positioned either under or over your TV. Compact and easy to set up, they present a more cost-effective alternative to multi-speaker systems.

Although soundbars may not precisely separate channels for accurate sound effect placement, they have excelled in creating an expansive sound field around the viewer. Additionally, many soundbars seamlessly pair with a subwoofer, adding a powerful bass element for an enhanced cinematic experience.

The Best Outdoor TVs

As a general guideline, TVs are not designed to withstand rugged conditions, and using them outdoors is not recommended. They lack the construction to endure extreme temperatures or endure significant exposure to moisture or dirt. If you intend to place a TV on your porch or deck, it is crucial to opt for a specialized set explicitly designed for outdoor use.

Companies like SunBriteTV manufacture robust TVs capable of functioning in a broader temperature range than typical consumer TVs and are resistant to the elements. These TVs are engineered to withstand exposure to rain and snow, featuring a sturdy chassis and shielded connection bays. However, the added protection comes at a higher cost; most outdoor TVs are priced at least twice as much as their indoor counterparts.