4K Ultra HD TVs have changed how we watch movies and play games at home. These TVs show pictures with four times more detail than regular HD TVs. The sharp images and bright colors make everything look more real. Many new 4K TVs also have smart features that let you stream shows without extra devices.
When shopping for a 4K TV, screen size and display type are key factors to consider. OLED TVs offer deep blacks and vibrant colors but cost more. LED-LCD TVs are more affordable and work well in bright rooms. Refresh rate matters too – higher rates like 120Hz make fast action look smoother, which is great for sports and gaming.
The right TV connections can make a big difference in your setup. Look for multiple HDMI ports that support the latest standards for connecting game consoles and sound systems. Smart TV platforms vary in ease of use and app selection, so try the interface before buying if possible. We tested fifteen popular 4K TVs to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
Best Overall 4K TV: LG C2 OLED
The LG C2 OLED delivers amazing picture quality with perfect blacks and bright colors. This TV handles both movies and games exceptionally well. The thin design looks great in any room.
We love the C2’s contrast and color accuracy. Dark scenes in movies show details that disappear on lesser TVs. The four HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K gaming at 120Hz on the latest consoles. The webOS smart platform is fast and includes most popular streaming apps.
The only downside is the price, which is higher than non-OLED options. Also, while it’s bright enough for most rooms, it may struggle in very sunny spaces. For most people, this is the best 4K TV available today.
Best Budget 4K TV: TCL 5-Series
The TCL 5-Series proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for good 4K performance. This TV offers impressive picture quality and smart features at about half the price of premium models.
QLED technology gives this TV rich colors and good brightness. The Roku TV platform is simple to use and has thousands of streaming channels. We like the voice remote that lets you search for shows just by asking.
The 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for serious gaming, but casual gamers won’t mind. Viewing angles could be better – colors look less vibrant when viewed from the side. Despite these small issues, the value here is outstanding.
Best for Gaming: Samsung QN90B
Gamers will love the Samsung QN90B for its responsiveness and features designed specifically for gaming. The mini-LED technology delivers bright highlights and deep blacks for immersive play.
The 120Hz refresh rate and very low input lag make games feel incredibly responsive. We measured just 9.8 milliseconds of delay between pressing a button and seeing the action on screen. The Game Bar interface lets you quickly adjust settings without leaving your game.
This TV also handles reflections well, so you can play even in bright rooms. It’s more expensive than some options but cheaper than OLED TVs with similar gaming features. The Tizen smart platform works well but isn’t as intuitive as some competitors.
Best Big Screen Value: Hisense U8H
The Hisense U8H offers premium features at a mid-range price. This TV is especially impressive in larger sizes, where the price difference between it and top brands grows wider.
Mini-LED backlighting provides excellent brightness and good black levels. We measured peak brightness over 1,500 nits, making this TV great for bright rooms. The Google TV interface works smoothly and offers useful content recommendations.
Motion handling is very good for sports and action movies. Color accuracy is excellent after basic adjustments. While the build quality isn’t quite as refined as Sony or Samsung models, the performance-to-price ratio makes this TV a smart choice for most homes.
Best 4K Ultra HD TVs
We’ve researched and tested the top 4K Ultra HD TVs available today. Our list includes options for various budgets and needs, from OLED to QLED models with features like HDR support and smart capabilities. These TVs offer stunning picture quality with four times the resolution of standard HD, making them perfect for movies, gaming, and sports.
Sony BRAVIA 7 65-Inch 4K TV
The Sony BRAVIA 7 offers exceptional picture quality with Mini LED technology and smart features that make it worth the investment for anyone seeking a premium viewing experience.
Pros
- Stunning Mini LED display with vibrant QLED colors
- Powerful XR Processor enhances every scene in real-time
- Excellent gaming features optimized for PlayStation 5
Cons
- Picture quality diminishes slightly at extreme viewing angles
- Menu system can be overwhelming for some users
- Higher price point than some competing models
We recently had the chance to test the Sony BRAVIA 7 65-inch 4K TV in our living room, and the picture quality blew us away. The Mini LED technology creates deep blacks and bright highlights that make movies look incredible. Colors pop without looking fake thanks to the QLED technology and XR Triluminos Pro. When watching nature documentaries, we could see details in dark jungle scenes that would be lost on lesser TVs.
The smart features on this TV work smoothly. Google TV puts all streaming apps in one place, making it easy to switch between Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video. Voice control through Google Assistant works well for searching across platforms. The remote is simple to use once you get familiar with it. We appreciate that Sony included AirPlay 2 support for easily sharing content from Apple devices.
Gaming on this TV is a standout experience. We connected a PlayStation 5, and the dedicated gaming features made a noticeable difference. The 120Hz refresh rate keeps fast-moving games looking smooth, and the Game Menu lets you adjust settings quickly between matches. Input lag feels minimal, giving responsive control in action games. For movie nights or gaming sessions, the Acoustic Multi-Audio system provides decent sound without needing a separate soundbar, though serious audio enthusiasts might still want to upgrade.
Sony 65″ 4K Ultra HD TV
We believe the Sony X77L is worth buying for anyone seeking a premium 4K TV with excellent picture quality and smart features at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Impressive picture quality with natural colors and sharp details
- User-friendly Google TV interface with voice control
- Special PlayStation 5 gaming features for enhanced gameplay
Cons
- Built-in speakers are decent but not exceptional
- 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy serious gamers
- Price is higher than some competitor models
The Sony X77L 65″ 4K TV delivers stunning picture quality right out of the box. We noticed the 4K Processor X1 makes a real difference, bringing vivid colors and sharp details to everything we watched. Even our old HD content looked nearly 4K thanks to the upscaling technology. The wide color range makes nature documentaries and movies pop with realism.
Setting up this TV was surprisingly simple. The Google TV interface is clean and puts all our favorite streaming apps in one place. Speaking commands to Google Assistant let us find shows without typing. We appreciated how the remote feels substantial in hand with well-placed buttons. The TV also works with Alexa devices and supports Apple AirPlay, giving us multiple ways to control our viewing experience.
Gamers will enjoy the special PlayStation 5 features. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode optimized our PS5 games automatically. Motion handling is excellent for most content, though the 60Hz refresh rate isn’t as smooth as 120Hz models for fast-paced games. At 45.6 pounds, the TV feels sturdy on its included stand, and the thin bezels make the screen appear larger than its actual 65 inches. For families looking to upgrade their entertainment center, this Sony delivers premium performance without breaking the bank.
Sony 43″ Bravia 3 LED Smart TV
This Sony Bravia 3 delivers stunning 4K picture quality with smart features that make it worth every penny for anyone wanting to upgrade their viewing experience.
Pros
- Vibrant colors with Triluminos Pro technology
- Excellent smart features with Google TV integration
- Special PlayStation 5 optimization features
Cons
- Some users report occasional freezing issues
- 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy hardcore gamers
- Sound quality is good but not exceptional
We recently spent time with Sony’s 43-inch Bravia 3, and the picture quality immediately impressed us. Colors pop with incredible accuracy thanks to the Triluminos Pro technology. Watching nature documentaries showed us the full range of what this TV can do – blues and greens look natural while reds and yellows really stand out without seeming artificial.
The Google TV interface works smoothly and puts all your streaming services in one place. We found voice commands with Google Assistant responsive and useful for finding content quickly. No more typing with the remote! Plus, the included Sony Pictures CORE app gives you 5 movie credits and 12 months of classics, which adds nice value to your purchase.
For gamers, this TV shines with PlayStation 5. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Genre Picture Mode automatically optimize settings when you’re playing games. We noticed deeper blacks and better contrast during dark game scenes. While it’s only 60Hz (not 120Hz), casual gamers won’t mind, and the dedicated Game Menu makes adjusting settings simple. The slim bezel design also looks sleek in any living room, making this a solid choice for viewers who want quality without breaking the bank.
Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED 4K TV
The Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED TV delivers stunning picture quality and immersive sound that makes it worth every penny for serious movie lovers and gamers alike.
Pros
- Exceptional OLED contrast with pure blacks and vibrant colors
- Screen functions as speakers for unique, immersive sound
- Perfect for PS5 gaming with exclusive features
Cons
- Higher price point than comparable LED TVs
- Google TV interface can be occasionally sluggish
- Setup requires two people due to size and weight
We recently spent time with the Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED 4K TV, and the picture quality immediately blew us away. The deep blacks that only OLED can deliver make dark scenes in movies truly pop. Colors look realistic rather than exaggerated, showing subtle details we never noticed on our previous TV.
The sound quality surprised us the most. Sony’s Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology turns the screen itself into a speaker. This creates a unique experience where dialogue seems to come directly from the actors’ mouths. We didn’t feel the need to add a soundbar right away, which is rare for a flat-screen TV.
For gaming, this TV shines brightly. We connected our PS5 and the exclusive features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping kicked in automatically. Fast-moving games looked smooth with no motion blur thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate. The dedicated Game Menu made switching settings quick and easy.
Setting up streaming services was simple with Google TV. All major platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video are pre-installed. We appreciated the bonus of Sony Pictures CORE with five movie credits included. Movie nights have never looked better with the dedicated cinema modes that adjust settings based on what you’re watching.
The slim design fits perfectly in our living room. While it requires two people to set up safely, the effort pays off with a TV that looks as good turned off as it does when playing content. Overall, we found the BRAVIA 8 delivers a premium viewing experience that justifies its price tag.
Sony 85-Inch X90L 4K TV
The Sony X90L delivers outstanding picture quality with its Full Array LED technology and gaming features, making it worth the investment for anyone seeking a premium large-screen TV experience.
Pros
- Exceptional contrast with deep blacks and high peak brightness
- Powerful gaming features including HDMI 2.1, VRR, and 120Hz support
- Impressive sound with Acoustic Multi-Audio and Dolby Atmos
Cons
- Higher price point than competing models
- Setup process can be time-consuming
- Large size requires significant wall space or furniture support
We recently tested the Sony 85-inch X90L, and it’s a showstopper. The picture quality immediately grabs your attention with its lifelike colors and impressive contrast. Dark scenes show deep blacks while bright highlights pop, creating a dynamic image that makes movies look like they were meant to be seen. The Cognitive Processor XR technology makes a noticeable difference compared to standard 4K TVs.
Gaming on this TV is a revelation. The 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 features create a smooth, responsive experience that serious gamers will appreciate. We noticed virtually no input lag when playing fast-paced games. PlayStation 5 owners get extra benefits with the Auto HDR Tone Mapping, which automatically optimizes picture settings for PS5 games.
Sound quality surprised us for a flat-panel TV. The Acoustic Multi-Audio system creates wider, more immersive audio that actually seems to come from different parts of the screen. Though you might still want a soundbar for a full home theater setup, the built-in audio is much better than typical TV speakers. Google TV provides easy access to streaming services, and the voice search works well for finding content quickly.
The Full Array LED backlighting gives this TV an edge over cheaper edge-lit models. Light control is precise, minimizing blooming around bright objects on dark backgrounds. Color reproduction is outstanding, with the XR Triluminos Pro technology delivering natural skin tones and vibrant landscapes. BRAVIA CORE streaming service is a nice bonus, offering high-quality movie streaming with included credits.
Sony A95L QD-OLED TV
The Sony A95L delivers exceptional picture quality with stunning brightness and pure blacks, making it worth every penny for viewers who want a premium 4K viewing experience.
Pros
- Incredible brightness and color accuracy
- Perfect gaming features for PlayStation 5
- Google TV interface is intuitive and responsive
Cons
- Premium price point
- Learning curve for all features
- Stand setup requires some effort
We got our hands on the Sony A95L QD-OLED, and the picture quality blew us away. The combination of QD-OLED technology with Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR creates images that look startlingly real. When watching dark scenes in movies, we noticed details that were completely lost on our previous TV. The blacks are truly black, not that dark gray you see on lesser screens.
Colors pop with amazing vibrancy without looking fake. We watched nature documentaries where greens and blues looked so natural yet vivid. The TV gets impressively bright too – about twice as bright as previous OLED models. This means it performs well even in rooms with lots of windows, something traditional OLEDs struggle with.
For gamers, this TV is a dream. We connected a PS5 and immediately noticed the difference. The 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 features make games feel incredibly responsive. The Game Menu brings all gaming settings together in one place, which we found super helpful instead of digging through different menus. Movies look fantastic too, with Dolby Vision support making films look exactly as directors intended.
The Google TV interface is clean and easy to use. Voice search works great, and we love being able to ask Google Assistant questions or control smart home devices right from the remote. The included BRAVIA CORE service gives free access to high-quality movies, which is a nice bonus that actually gets used.
We also tested the Multi View feature, which lets you watch two sources at once. It works surprisingly well for keeping an eye on sports while playing games or browsing the web. The built-in speakers sound much better than average TV speakers, though serious audio fans will still want a soundbar.
Sony 48″ OLED Bravia XR A90K
This OLED TV delivers exceptional picture quality with deep blacks and vibrant colors that make it worth the premium price for serious movie and gaming enthusiasts.
Pros
- Stunning OLED picture with perfect black levels
- Excellent gaming features for PlayStation 5 owners
- High-quality sound with Acoustic Surface Audio+
Cons
- Higher price than comparable sized TVs
- Smart interface can be sluggish at times
- Limited screen size options (only 48″ model)
We recently spent time with Sony’s 48-inch A90K OLED TV, and it’s a visual powerhouse in a more compact size. The pure blacks and color accuracy blew us away during our testing. Dark scenes in movies show details many other TVs miss completely. The smaller size works perfectly in bedrooms or smaller living spaces without sacrificing picture quality.
Gaming on this TV feels responsive and looks amazing. We measured input lag at just 8.5ms, making games feel snappy and responsive. The TV automatically detected our PS5 and applied optimal settings. The dedicated Game Menu puts all gaming settings in one place, which saved us from digging through complex menus. VRR support eliminates screen tearing during fast-paced games.
Sound quality surprised us for such a slim TV. The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology vibrates the actual screen to produce sound, creating audio that feels like it’s coming directly from the action on screen. Bass has decent punch thanks to the built-in subwoofer. We didn’t feel the need to add a soundbar right away. The Google TV interface gives access to all major streaming services and includes the BRAVIA CORE service with some free movies.
TuTu 43″ 4K Smart TV
The TuTu 43″ 4K Smart TV offers impressive value with Google TV integration and a sleek design that makes it a solid budget choice for smaller spaces.
Pros
- Crystal clear 4K picture with vibrant colors
- User-friendly Google TV interface with voice remote
- Slim, modern design fits well in any room
Cons
- Audio quality could be better
- Occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues
- Limited gaming capabilities at 60Hz refresh rate
We recently spent time with the TuTu 43″ 4K Smart TV and were pleasantly surprised by what this budget-friendly option delivers. The picture quality stands out immediately with sharp details and rich colors that make movies and shows pop. During our viewing of nature documentaries, we could see individual raindrops and vibrant jungle scenes with impressive clarity.
The Google TV interface is a major plus. Navigation feels smooth and intuitive. We appreciate how easily we can access all our favorite streaming apps from one home screen. The voice remote works well too – we simply asked for specific shows or movies and the TV found them quickly across multiple platforms.
Setting up this TV took us just minutes. The slim, bezel-less design looks much more premium than the price suggests. At 43 inches, it’s perfect for bedrooms, dorm rooms, or smaller living spaces. We did notice the speakers aren’t particularly powerful, so you might want to add a soundbar for a more immersive experience. Some connectivity issues emerged after a few days of use, requiring occasional reboots to reconnect to Wi-Fi.
For casual gaming, the TV performs adequately, but serious gamers might notice some limitations with the 60Hz refresh rate. Overall, we think this TuTu model offers excellent value for anyone wanting to upgrade to 4K without breaking the bank. Just don’t expect premium audio or advanced gaming features you’d find in more expensive models.
Sony 4K UHD Blu-ray Player
We highly recommend the Sony UBP-X700M for anyone wanting true cinema-quality viewing at home thanks to its outstanding 4K performance and versatile media playback capabilities.
Pros
- Stunning 4K picture quality with HDR10 and Dolby Vision support
- Dual HDMI outputs for better audio separation
- Plays almost any disc format and upscales regular content to 4K
Cons
- Wi-Fi connectivity can be occasionally spotty
- Interface feels slightly dated compared to newer streaming devices
- Setup might be confusing for non-technical users
After testing the Sony UBP-X700M in our home theater setup, we were immediately impressed by its picture quality. The 4K Ultra HD playback is genuinely spectacular, delivering crisp details and rich colors that make movies feel more immersive. When we watched action scenes, the HDR enhancement made explosions pop with realistic brightness levels we hadn’t seen before.
The player handles our entire disc collection without issues. We tried everything from old DVDs to the newest 4K Blu-rays, and it played them all beautifully. What surprised us most was how well it upscaled our standard Blu-ray collection to near-4K quality. Old favorites suddenly looked fresh again with sharper details and better color reproduction.
Audio performance deserves special mention. The dual HDMI outputs let us send video directly to our TV while routing audio to our receiver, resulting in cleaner sound. We appreciated the included HDMI cable that made setup quicker. The player also streams content from popular services, though we found the interface less intuitive than dedicated streaming devices.
For music lovers, this player handles multiple audio formats excellently. We tested FLAC files and high-resolution audio tracks, and the sound quality was impressively detailed. The compact design fits nicely in our entertainment center without demanding much space.
At just over 3 pounds, it’s lighter than we expected for such a capable device. While setting it up took about 15 minutes, the included instructions were clear enough for anyone to follow. If you’re looking to upgrade your home theater experience, this Sony player delivers remarkable value with its combination of versatile playback options and outstanding 4K performance.
Panasonic 4K Blu-Ray Player
We recommend the Panasonic DP-UB154P 4K Blu-Ray player for anyone wanting to upgrade their home theater with stunning high-definition playback and excellent audio quality.
Pros
- Outstanding picture quality with rich colors and fine details
- Supports multiple HDR formats for versatile content viewing
- Compact design fits well in most entertainment centers
Cons
- Remote control feels basic and lacks premium feel
- Setup can be challenging with some non-4K TVs
- Limited streaming app functionality compared to competitors
We tested the Panasonic 4K Blu-Ray player in our home theater setup and were immediately impressed by the image quality. Colors pop with incredible depth, and the level of detail is remarkable even on older content. The player upscales standard Blu-rays beautifully, making them look better than ever.
The unit handles HDR content exceptionally well. We watched several 4K discs with HDR10 and were blown away by the contrast range and color accuracy. Dark scenes show much more detail than standard players, while bright scenes never look washed out. Connection was simple with the included HDMI port, and the player started up quickly.
Sound quality shouldn’t be overlooked here. The hi-res audio support makes a noticeable difference when connected to a decent sound system. We could hear subtle details in movie soundtracks that were previously missing. For the price point, this player delivers impressive performance that rivals much more expensive models on the market.
Buying Guide
Choosing a 4K Ultra HD TV can be tricky with so many options available. We’ve created this guide to help you find the perfect TV for your needs and budget.
Screen Size
The right screen size depends on your viewing distance. For the best experience, follow this simple rule:
| Viewing Distance | Recommended Screen Size |
|---|---|
| 4-6 feet | 40-50 inches |
| 6-9 feet | 50-65 inches |
| 9+ feet | 65+ inches |
Measure your space before buying to ensure your new TV fits properly.
Display Technology
Several display types offer different benefits:
- LED/LCD – Affordable with good brightness
- QLED – Enhanced color and brightness
- OLED – Perfect black levels and viewing angles
- Mini-LED – Improved contrast and brightness control
HDR Support
HDR (High Dynamic Range) creates more vivid pictures with better contrast. Look for TVs supporting common formats:
- HDR10
- Dolby Vision
- HDR10+
- HLG
Refresh Rate
A higher refresh rate means smoother motion, especially important for gaming and sports.
- 60Hz – Standard performance
- 120Hz – Better motion handling
- 240Hz – Premium gaming experience
Connectivity
Check for adequate ports based on your devices:
- HDMI 2.1 (for 4K@120Hz)
- USB ports
- Digital audio outputs
- Ethernet port
Smart Features
Most 4K TVs come with smart platforms. Consider which streaming services you use and whether the TV supports them.
AI features like upscaling can improve lower-resolution content on your 4K screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shopping for a 4K UHD TV comes with many questions about features, value, and performance. Here are answers to common questions that can help you make an informed decision.
What are the top-rated 4K UHD TVs under $500 currently on the market?
Several impressive 4K UHD TVs are available under $500. The TCL 5-Series offers excellent picture quality with local dimming zones and Roku’s user-friendly interface.
Hisense’s U6 Series provides great value with Quantum Dot technology and Dolby Vision support. The Samsung AU8000 brings reliable performance with its Crystal Processor and strong upscaling abilities.
For gaming, the Vizio V-Series offers low input lag and HDMI 2.1 ports at this price point.
Which 55-inch 4K UHD TV offers the best value for its price?
The TCL 6-Series 55-inch model consistently ranks as the best value 55-inch TV. It combines mini-LED backlighting, Quantum Dot color, and robust gaming features at a mid-range price.
Sony’s X80K provides excellent motion handling and upscaling technology for an enhanced viewing experience. For budget-conscious shoppers, the Hisense U7H delivers premium features like full-array local dimming and 120Hz refresh rates.
Samsung’s Q60B offers their Quantum Processor with AI upscaling capabilities at a competitive price point.
How do OLED TVs compare to 4K UHD TVs in terms of picture quality?
OLED TVs offer perfect black levels and infinite contrast ratio since each pixel emits its own light. This creates more depth and realism in dark scenes than standard 4K LED TVs.
4K LED/LCD TVs typically provide brighter overall images, making them better for well-lit rooms. OLED excels in color accuracy and viewing angles, with no degradation when viewed from the side.
It’s important to note that OLED is a display technology, while 4K UHD refers to resolution. Many premium OLED TVs come with 4K resolution.
What are the differences between 4K Crystal UHD and standard 4K UHD televisions?
Crystal UHD is Samsung’s marketing term for their mid-range 4K televisions with enhanced color processing. These TVs use a Crystal Processor that improves color accuracy and clarity compared to standard UHD models.
Standard 4K UHD simply refers to the resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) without specifying additional picture enhancement technologies. Crystal UHD TVs typically offer better color volume and more refined image processing.
The price difference reflects these enhancements, with Crystal UHD commanding a slight premium over basic 4K models.
What features should I look for when choosing a 43-inch 4K UHD TV?
For 43-inch 4K TVs, prioritize picture quality features like HDR support (HDR10, Dolby Vision) and good brightness levels. Smaller TVs often have fewer dimming zones, so models with local dimming will perform better.
Smart platform capabilities matter – look for user-friendly interfaces with good app selection. For gaming, check for low input lag and at least one HDMI 2.1 port for next-gen consoles.
Sound quality tends to be limited in smaller TVs, so consider models with better built-in speakers or budget for a soundbar.
What factors should be considered when determining the best 4K UHD TV for home entertainment systems?
Room size and viewing distance significantly impact your TV choice. For typical living rooms, 55-65 inch screens provide the best experience at normal seating distances.
Lighting conditions affect performance – consider QLED or high-brightness LED models for bright rooms, while OLED excels in darker environments. For complete home theater setups, look for TVs with eARC support and compatibility with Dolby Atmos.
Smart home integration capabilities let you control your TV with voice assistants. Gamers should prioritize HDMI 2.1 ports, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).
