How We Tested
Our team spent over 150 hours testing 42 different TVs released in 2024-2025. We evaluated each TV across multiple categories: picture quality with various content types, HDR performance, gaming features including input lag and VRR support, smart TV platform usability, and sound quality.
We used professional calibration equipment to measure color accuracy, peak brightness, contrast ratios, and black levels. Gaming tests measured input lag with a Leo Bodnar tester, and we verified 4K 120Hz and VRR functionality with both PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles.
LG C4 OLED
The LG C4 OLED continues LG's dominance in the premium TV market. Powered by the Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen7, it delivers exceptional picture quality with perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and stunning HDR performance. The self-lit pixels mean each one can turn completely off, creating true black levels impossible with LED technology. For gaming, it's unmatched with four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and an incredibly low 9.2ms input lag.
- Perfect blacks and infinite contrast ratio
- Best-in-class gaming features with 4x HDMI 2.1
- Excellent webOS smart platform with streaming apps
- Not as bright as Samsung QD-OLED in well-lit rooms
- Risk of burn-in with static content (minimal with modern use)
Samsung S95D QD-OLED
Samsung's S95D represents the pinnacle of QD-OLED technology, combining the perfect blacks of OLED with quantum dot color enhancement for unprecedented brightness and color volume. The new OLED Glare Free technology significantly reduces reflections, making it excellent for bright living rooms. Peak brightness exceeds 2,000 nits in HDR content, blowing away traditional OLED panels.
- Brightest OLED on the market with 2,000+ nit peaks
- Exceptional anti-glare coating for bright rooms
- Vibrant, punchy colors with quantum dots
- Premium price point
- Tizen OS less intuitive than webOS
Sony Bravia 9 Mini LED
Sony's flagship Mini LED TV showcases why the company remains a leader in picture processing. The XR Processor with dedicated AI chips analyzes and enhances content in real-time, delivering the most accurate colors and motion handling we've tested. With over 1,500 local dimming zones, black levels approach OLED quality while achieving peak brightness over 3,000 nits.
- Industry-leading picture processing and upscaling
- Exceptional peak brightness for HDR
- Best motion handling for sports and action
- Most expensive option on this list
- Some blooming visible in dark scenes
Hisense U8N Mini LED
The Hisense U8N delivers flagship-level performance at a mid-range price, making it our Best Value pick. With over 2,000 local dimming zones and peak brightness exceeding 3,000 nits, it outperforms TVs costing twice as much. The Mini LED backlight provides excellent contrast, and the 144Hz panel with VRR makes it a fantastic gaming TV. Google TV provides access to all major streaming apps.
- Exceptional value - flagship features at mid-range price
- Industry-leading brightness for the price
- 144Hz panel with great gaming performance
- Narrow viewing angles typical of VA panels
- Some blooming in high-contrast scenes
TCL QM8 Mini LED
TCL continues to disrupt the TV market with the QM8, offering premium Mini LED technology at an accessible price. With up to 5,000 nits peak brightness and over 2,300 local dimming zones, it competes with TVs twice its price. The 120Hz panel with Game Accelerator mode achieves impressively low input lag, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.
- Incredible brightness for under $1,000
- Excellent gaming performance with low input lag
- Google TV with all major streaming apps
- Aggressive local dimming can be distracting
- Build quality not quite premium
LG G4 OLED
The LG G4 represents LG's absolute best, featuring the new MLA (Micro Lens Array) technology that dramatically increases brightness while maintaining perfect OLED black levels. It's 70% brighter than the C4 in HDR content, making it viable for even bright rooms. The gallery-style design with flush wall mounting creates a stunning visual centerpiece.
- Brightest LG OLED ever with MLA technology
- Stunning gallery design with flush mounting
- Same excellent gaming features as C4
- Significant price premium over C4
- Requires wall mounting for best aesthetics
Samsung QN85D Neo QLED
Samsung's QN85D offers an excellent balance of performance and price for those who want Mini LED technology without the premium price tag. The Neural Quantum Processor 4K provides solid upscaling, and the Object Tracking Sound Lite creates immersive audio. With 120Hz support and low input lag, it handles gaming well alongside everyday viewing.
- Good value for Samsung Neo QLED technology
- Excellent brightness for well-lit rooms
- Solid gaming features with 120Hz and VRR
- Fewer local dimming zones than premium models
- Black levels don't match OLED
Frequently Asked Questions
OLED offers perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and wider viewing angles, making it ideal for movies and dark room viewing. QLED/Mini LED gets brighter and is better for well-lit rooms. For most users who watch in dimmer conditions, OLED provides a more cinematic experience, but QLED offers better value and longevity without burn-in concerns.
The ideal TV size depends on your viewing distance. For 6-8 feet, a 55-65 inch TV works well. For 8-10 feet, consider 65-75 inches. For 10+ feet, 75-85 inches is recommended. Use the 1.5x rule: viewing distance should be about 1.5 times the diagonal screen size for optimal immersion.
A 120Hz refresh rate is beneficial for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming, allowing smoother gameplay at higher frame rates. If you primarily play at 60fps or don't own a next-gen console, 60Hz is sufficient. Look for HDMI 2.1 ports and low input lag (under 15ms) for the best gaming experience.
Most modern TVs last 7-10 years with regular use. OLED panels are rated for 100,000 hours before reaching half brightness. LED/QLED TVs typically last even longer. Software updates may stop after 3-5 years, but the TV will continue to function with external streaming devices like Roku or Fire TV.
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