A look at the year’s best options for smart TVs
The smart TV is the cornerstone of any home entertainment system. They continue to evolve each year with new innovations and technologies, offering high-quality images, vivid detail and vibrant colors.
Smart TVs vary in size, power and resolution; they may feature any number of apps and convenient extras and tend to possess settings that cater to your viewing needs. Your smart TV requires compatible services and may need to integrate with a gaming console, soundbar or Blu-ray player. There’s plenty to consider, but our guide is here to help distill all you need to know as we take a look at the top smart TVs right now:
What to know before buying
Smart TVs range in size from as small as 40 inches to as large as 85 inches. This number is measured from one diagonal to the other. You can set up your smart TV on an entertainment stand or TV bench or opt to mount it to the wall. Consider the support that’s required either way, and note the size of the room the TV will be living in. You don’t want to be too close to or too far away from the screen.
Resolution is another important factor. 4K, or ultra high-definition, has become the standard for smart TVs, as most series, films and games of the last decade shoot in 4K. HD TVs are still available and are ideal for those on a budget.
Note the processing speed of a smart TV. Like computers, more powerful processors result in a better picture quality. A weak processor may lead to grainy or lagging images with less vibrant colors.
Smart TV features
- Viewing modes: Some smart TVs come with specific picture settings that cater to your content. For example, an included gaming mode enhances the quality of video games.
- Compatibility: Some smart TVs may be more compatible with certain devices than others. You may want to take a look at smart TVs made by companies that also make your computer, smartphone or gaming console, as these likely offer smoother and more convenient operation.
- Speakers: Generally, smart TV speakers aren’t impressive, since the focus is on high-quality images and not top-notch sound. Still, some smart TVs have more than adequate speakers. Consider whether a soundbar is a worthy investment.
- Mounting: One way to set up your smart TV is by mounting it to the wall. Your purchase may come with the option to add on a mounting unit or the chance to have it professionally installed.
- Inputs: Consider what devices you want to hook up permanently as well as any devices, like a memory stick, that may be used once in a while.
- Control: Your TV comes with a remote, though only some feature integrated buttons to immediately access your favorite apps. Some TVs may be operated by your smartphone or through voice activation via a virtual assistant.
Best of the best
Samsung 65-inch Smart 4K QLED TV, $ 1,299.99
Our take: A larger size of our returning favorite, this high-end smart TV offers vivid detail and contrast at a premium price.
What we like: Top-of-the-line, innovative Samsung TV with stunning images, fast processing and an impressive size.
What we dislike: Need enough space to accommodate the size; pricey.
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Best bang for your buck
TCL 43-inch 4K Smart TV, $329.99
Our take: Our new bargain pick, this is a small but potent 4K smart TV that offers ease and convenience at a low cost.
What we like: Compact 4K smart TV with a simple interface, access to numerous apps and plenty of inputs. Inexpensive investment.
What we dislike: One of the smallest smart TVs available.
Choice 3
Sony 65-inch Master Series Bravia OLED 4K Smart TV, $3,499.99
Our take: Another newcomer to our short list, this powerful, top-of-the-line smart TV is ideal for gamers and sports fans.
What we like: From a leading name in electronics, this powerful smart TV isn’t the largest but offers one of the fastest processors and most stunning visuals.
What we dislike: Quite expensive.
