Best Refresh Rate TVs for a Smooth and Clear Picture Experience

Television technology has come a long way since its inception. With the advent of high-definition picture quality, smart features, and advanced audio, televisions have become an essential part of our lives. However, one crucial aspect that often goes unnoticed is the refresh rate of the TV. The refresh rate is the number of times a TV can update its image in one second, and it is measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate means a smoother image, and it is especially important for fast-paced content like sports, action movies, and video games.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the best refresh rate TVs available in the market. We’ll be looking at TVs with a refresh rate of 120Hz and above, as they provide the best viewing experience. We’ll also be considering other factors like picture quality, smart features, and price to help you make an informed decision.

When buying a TV, it’s essential to consider the size of the screen, the type of panel, and the resolution. However, when it comes to refresh rate, the critical thing to keep in mind is that a higher refresh rate equals a smoother image. If you’re an avid gamer or a sports enthusiast, a TV with a high refresh rate is a must-have.

In the following sections, we’ll be discussing the top refresh rate TVs available in the market and what sets them apart from the rest. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a top-of-the-line model, we’ve got you covered.

Best Refresh Rate TVs

When it comes to watching sports, playing video games, or simply enjoying a fast-paced action movie, having a TV with a high refresh rate can significantly enhance your viewing experience. We’ve researched and tested various models to bring you our top picks for the best refresh rate TVs on the market. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a serious gamer, these TVs offer smooth and fluid motion, vibrant colors, and exceptional picture quality. Check out our list below to find the perfect TV for your needs.

TCL Q7 QLED 4K Smart Google TV

If you’re looking for a premium TV that offers an immersive cinematic experience, then TCL’s Q7 QLED 4K Smart Google TV is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ provide enhanced contrast and vivid colors, making the viewing experience truly immersive and realistic.
• The Full Array PRO local dimming with over 200 zones adapts to on-screen content for deep blacks without image blooming, ensuring that every scene is clear and detailed.
• The Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode make gameplay fast and responsive, keeping you ahead of the competition.

Cons

• The TV is quite heavy and may require two people to mount it on the wall.
• The remote control can be a bit confusing to use at first, but after a few tries, it becomes easy to navigate.
• The TV does not come with a built-in camera, so you’ll need to purchase an external one if you want to use video conferencing apps.

The TCL Q7 QLED 4K Smart Google TV is a great choice for those who want a premium TV that offers an exceptional viewing experience. The Quantum Dot technology and HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ provide enhanced contrast and vivid colors, making the viewing experience truly immersive and realistic. The Full Array PRO local dimming with over 200 zones adapts to on-screen content for deep blacks without image blooming, ensuring that every scene is clear and detailed.

The Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode make gameplay fast and responsive, keeping you ahead of the competition. This TV is perfect for those who enjoy fast action movies, sports, and next-level gaming. The TV’s AIPQ Engine Gen 3 optimizes each scene with machine learning for an unrivaled cinematic experience.

Overall, the TCL Q7 QLED 4K Smart Google TV is a great investment for those who want a premium TV that offers a truly immersive and realistic viewing experience.

Sony X85K Series 43 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV

If you’re looking for a TV that delivers smooth and clear picture quality, the Sony X85K Series 43 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The 4K HDR Processor X1 delivers a picture that is smooth and clear, full of rich colors and detailed contrast.
• See blur-free picture quality in fast-moving sports and action-packed movies with native 120Hz refresh rate and Motionflow XR technology.
• Reproduces over a billion accurate colors resulting in picture quality that is natural and precise, and closer than ever to real life, enhanced by TRILUMINOS Pro.

Cons

• The TV is relatively expensive compared to other models on the market.
• The remote control may take some time to get used to.
• Some users have reported issues with the TV’s software.

We were impressed with the Sony X85K Series 43 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV’s picture quality, which is smooth and clear, full of rich colors and detailed contrast. The native 120Hz refresh rate and Motionflow XR technology ensure that fast-moving sports and action-packed movies are blur-free. The TV also reproduces over a billion accurate colors, resulting in picture quality that is natural and precise, and closer than ever to real life, enhanced by TRILUMINOS Pro.

However, the TV is relatively expensive compared to other models on the market. Additionally, the remote control may take some time to get used to, and some users have reported issues with the TV’s software. Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality TV, the Sony X85K Series 43 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV is a great option to consider.

VIZIO 50-inch MQX-Series 4K 120Hz QLED HDR10 Smart TV

If you’re in the market for a new TV, the VIZIO 50-inch MQX-Series 4K 120Hz QLED HDR10 Smart TV is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The picture quality is stunning, with over 1 billion colors and deep contrast achieved with the Active Full Array Backlight local dimming, enhanced with Dolby Vision HDR Bright Mode -amp; HDR10 .
• The TV is designed for gamers, with a refresh rate of 120 Hz with 4K and 240 Hz with FHD, AMD FreeSync Premium, VRR, ultra-low input lag, HDMI 2.1, Dolby Vision, and the integrated gaming menu power on with Auto Game Mode when a console or PC is detected.
• The TV is equipped with WiFi 6E, which is double the bandwidth of 5G, and allows you to stream more content without interrupting other connected devices in your Smart Home.

Cons

• The TV is quite large, at 50 inches, and may not be suitable for smaller living spaces.
• The VIZIO SmartCast app can be difficult to navigate, and may take some getting used to.
• The TV does not come with a built-in camera for video conferencing.

Overall, we highly recommend the VIZIO 50-inch MQX-Series 4K 120Hz QLED HDR10 Smart TV for its stunning picture quality and advanced gaming features. The WiFi 6E connectivity is also a major plus for those with multiple connected devices in their home.

SAMSUNG 85″ Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Series Mini LED Quantum HDR 32x, Dolby Atmos,Object Tracking Sound ,Anti-Glare,Ultra Viewing Angle,Smart TV,Bluetooth with Alexa Built-In(QN85QN90BAFXZA,2022 Model) 85-Inch TV Only

If you’re looking for the ultimate viewing experience, the SAMSUNG 85″ Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Series Mini LED Quantum HDR 32x TV is definitely worth considering. With its Quantum Matrix Technology, powered by precision Mini LEDs, it delivers breathtaking color and contrast, even in daylight. Thanks to 14-bit processing, this TV also offers deep blacks and over a billion shades of color, making it perfect for movies, sports, and more.

Pros

• The Quantum HDR 32X and its wide range of vivid shades of color bring every detail to life in realistic contrast and brilliance.
• The Neo Quantum Processor 4K uses AI-based deep learning to analyze your content and optimize it to full 4K resolution, so you can enjoy everything you love in spectacular detail.
• With Dolby Atmos built-in and Object Tracking Sound , you’ll experience realistic 3D sound that puts you right in the middle of the action.

Cons

• At 85 inches, this TV is definitely on the larger side, so it may not be the best option for smaller rooms.
• While the Smart Calibration feature is great for enhancing your screen, it can take up to 12 minutes to complete.
• The SAMSUNG 85″ Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Series Mini LED Quantum HDR 32x TV is a bit on the pricey side, so it may not be the best option for those on a budget.

We were impressed with the SAMSUNG 85″ Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Series Mini LED Quantum HDR 32x TV. The Anti-Glare with Ultra Viewing Angle feature ensures you get the best view from every seat, while the Q-Symphony technology allows your TV speakers and Q-Series soundbar to work together for a masterfully orchestrated audio experience. The Smart TV comes with multiple voice assistants built-in and ready to help, so you can choose from Bixby, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant depending on your preference.

Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line TV with incredible picture and sound quality, the SAMSUNG 85″ Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Series Mini LED Quantum HDR 32x TV is definitely worth considering.

VIZIO V-Series 4K UHD Smart TV

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your next TV purchase, the VIZIO V-Series 4K UHD Smart TV might be worth considering.

Pros

• The 4K Ultra HD picture quality is impressive and provides crystal-clear and sharp picture quality.
• The Dolby Vision Bright Mode and HDR10 support offer lifelike accuracy, color saturation, black detail, and brightness.
• The V-Gaming engine enables sub 10ms input lag, 4K 48-60 fps Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Game Mode, and a newly added gaming menu, making it a great choice for gamers.

Cons

• The TV has a refresh rate of only 60 Hz, which might not be ideal for some users who want a smoother viewing experience.
• The legs of the TV are weak, and the TV might fall over if not screwed on properly.
• The SmartCast platform could be improved to offer more built-in apps and better functionality.

We recently had the chance to try out the VIZIO V-Series 4K UHD Smart TV, and we were impressed with the picture quality. The 4K Ultra HD resolution provides stunning detail and clarity, and the Dolby Vision Bright Mode and HDR10 support offer lifelike accuracy, color saturation, black detail, and brightness. The full array backlight also provides superior light uniformity and picture performance.

The V-Gaming engine is a standout feature for gamers, providing sub 10ms input lag, 4K 48-60 fps Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Game Mode, and a newly added gaming menu. We found that gaming on this TV was smooth and enjoyable, with no noticeable lag or stuttering.

While the SmartCast platform offers a good selection of built-in apps, including WatchFree that lets you enjoy free access to live TV and hundreds of free channels right out of the box, we did find that it could be improved to offer more apps and better functionality. Additionally, the legs of the TV are weak, and we found that the TV might fall over if not screwed on properly.

Overall, the VIZIO V-Series 4K UHD Smart TV is a great budget-friendly option for those looking for a TV with impressive picture quality and gaming features. However, if you’re looking for a TV with a higher refresh rate or more advanced Smart TV features, you might want to consider other options.

SunBrite 55-Inch Outdoor Television 4K with HDR – Signature 2 Series – for Partial Sun

If you’re looking for a TV that can handle outdoor viewing, the SunBrite 55-Inch Outdoor Television 4K with HDR is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The TV is weatherproof and built for permanent outdoor installation, with a durable aluminum casing to protect against the elements.
• The commercial-grade 4K UHD high-brightness screen with direct LED backlight and TruVision anti-glare technology cuts glare and delivers ultra-bright, dramatic picture detail.
• The built-in receiver with IR repeater allows for receiving up to 4K UHD resolution video, power, and control over a single Cat5E Ethernet cable.

Cons

• The TV does not come with speakers, so you’ll need to purchase a separate sound bar.
• Some users have reported issues with the TV breaking down after a short period of time.
• The TV is quite heavy, which can make installation difficult.

Overall, we think that the SunBrite 55-Inch Outdoor Television 4K with HDR is a solid choice for those looking for a TV that can handle outdoor viewing. The TV is weatherproof, has a bright and clear picture, and is designed for permanent outdoor installation. However, the lack of built-in speakers and the TV’s weight may be drawbacks for some users. If you’re looking for a TV that can handle outdoor viewing, this is definitely one to consider.

LG NANO75 Series 65-Inch Class Smart TV 65NANO75UQA

If you’re in the market for a high-quality TV with a fast refresh rate, the LG NANO75 Series 65-Inch Class Smart TV 65NANO75UQA is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The NanoCell display produces over a billion rich and vivid colors, resulting in a lifelike image that is sure to impress.
• The α5 Gen5 AI Processor 4K enhances both picture and sound quality, making for an immersive viewing experience.
• The Game Optimizer feature lets you adjust all of your game settings in one convenient dashboard, with low input lag and fast response times.

Cons

• The webOS can be slow at times, which can be frustrating when trying to switch between apps or content.
• The remote control is not as intuitive as it could be, and some users may find it difficult to navigate.
• The TV stand is sold separately, which can be an added expense for those who don’t plan to mount the TV on the wall.

Overall, we highly recommend the LG NANO75 Series 65-Inch Class Smart TV 65NANO75UQA for those looking for a high-quality TV with a fast refresh rate. The NanoCell display produces stunning visuals, while the α5 Gen5 AI Processor 4K enhances both picture and sound quality. The Game Optimizer feature is a nice touch for gamers, and the ability to control the TV and connected devices by voice is a convenient feature. However, the webOS can be slow at times, and the remote control could be more user-friendly.

TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV

We highly recommend the TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV due to its stunning picture quality, advanced HDR formats, and numerous smart features.

Pros

• The Full HD Resolution provides a crystal-clear picture quality with enhanced clarity and detail.
• The HDR (HDR10, -amp; HLG) feature enhances contrast, accurate colors, and fine details utilizing all the most advanced HDR formats.
• The Google TV Smart OS brings your favorite movies, shows, and live shows together, making it easy to find and watch your favorite content.

Cons

• With a refresh rate of only 60Hz, this TV may not be suitable for fast-paced action scenes or gaming.
• The sound quality may not be sufficient for those who prefer a more immersive audio experience.
• The TV may be too small for those who prefer larger screens for their viewing pleasure.

The TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV is a great small to mid-size TV that can also double as your PC monitor. The FullView Metal Bezel-less Design provides an elegant edge-to-edge glass design for a modern look that blends seamlessly into any home. Additionally, the Bluetooth Personal Audio feature allows you to pair your favorite Bluetooth headphones to the TV for a private listening experience.

The TV also comes with 2 HDMI Inputs (One with ARC) for the best connection to gaming consoles, set-top boxes, AV receiver, and more. The Chromecast Built-in feature works with the streaming apps you know and love, allowing you to enjoy TV shows, movies, videos, songs, games, sports, and more from thousands of apps. Furthermore, the TV works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to use your voice to control your TV using the most popular voice assistants.

Overall, the TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV is an excellent choice for those looking for a small to mid-size TV with advanced features and stunning picture quality.

Hisense 65-Inch Class U7 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV (65U7K) – QLED, Native 144Hz, 1000-Nit, Dolby Vision IQ, Full Array Local Dimming, Game Mode Pro, Alexa Compatibility, 65U7K 65 Inch

If you’re looking for a TV that delivers an exceptional gaming experience, the Hisense U7 series is definitely worth considering. With its 144Hz variable refresh rate panel, Dolby Vision Gaming, AMD Free sync Premium Pro, and 2.1 channel audio, it’s sure to impress even the most demanding gamers. Plus, the Mini-LED and Quantum Dot Color technologies provide an immersive viewing experience that’s hard to match.

Pros

• The 144Hz variable refresh rate panel and Dolby Vision Gaming provide an exceptional gaming experience.
• The Mini-LED and Quantum Dot Color technologies deliver an immersive viewing experience with vibrant colors and deep blacks.
• The Hands-Free Voice Control and Google TV make it easy to find and play your favorite content.

Cons

• Some users have reported slight screen uniformity issues.
• The TV’s energy saver function can affect picture quality, so it’s best to turn it off.
• The price point may be too high for some buyers.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Hisense U7 series, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The 144Hz variable refresh rate panel and Dolby Vision Gaming made for an exceptional gaming experience, with smooth, uninterrupted play and minimal input lag. The Mini-LED and Quantum Dot Color technologies also delivered stunning visuals with vibrant colors and deep blacks.

One downside we noticed was some slight screen uniformity issues, but it wasn’t enough to detract from the overall viewing experience. We also found that turning off the energy saver function helped improve picture quality.

Overall, we think the Hisense U7 series is a great choice for gamers and movie enthusiasts alike. Its advanced features and immersive viewing experience make it a standout option in the market.

LG QNED80 Series 65-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV 4K Processor Smart Flat Screen TV for Gaming with Magic Remote AI-Powered 65QNED80URA, 2023 with Alexa Built-in,Black 65 inch TV Only

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line TV that can handle all your entertainment needs, the LG QNED80 Series 65-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV is an excellent choice. With its cutting-edge Quantum Dots and NanoCell technology, you’ll enjoy bright, colorful images that are sure to impress.

Pros

• The native 120Hz refresh rate makes for a smooth, seamless viewing experience, whether you’re watching sports or playing video games.
• The a7 AI Processor Gen6 automatically detects what you’re watching and adjusts the picture and sound quality for optimal viewing.
• With LG webOS 23 and Quick Cards, you’ll spend less time searching for content and more time enjoying it.

Cons

• At 65 inches, this TV is on the larger side and may not be suitable for smaller rooms or apartments.
• The price point may be higher than some other models on the market.
• Some users have reported issues with connectivity and lag when using certain features.

We were impressed with the LG QNED80’s performance during our testing. The Quantum Dot NanoCell technology really makes the colors pop, and the Dimming Pro feature ensures that even the darkest scenes are easy to see. We also appreciated the virtual 5.1 surround sound, which made us feel like we were right in the middle of the action.

One of the standout features of this TV is the a7 AI Processor Gen6. It really does make a noticeable difference in the picture and sound quality, and we appreciated not having to constantly adjust the settings ourselves. And with LG webOS 23 and Quick Cards, we were able to easily find and watch all our favorite content without any hassle.

That being said, this TV may not be for everyone. If you have a smaller living space, the 65-inch screen may be overwhelming. And while the price point is definitely on the higher side, we believe that the performance and features of the LG QNED80 make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend the LG QNED80 Series 65-Inch Class QNED Mini LED Smart TV for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line viewing experience.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best refresh rate TV, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your decision:

Refresh Rate

The refresh rate is the number of times per second that the TV’s screen refreshes. A higher refresh rate means smoother motion and less blur, which is especially important for sports and action movies. Look for a TV with a refresh rate of at least 120Hz for the best viewing experience.

Screen Size

The size of your TV will depend on the size of your room and your personal preferences. Consider the distance between your TV and seating area, as well as the layout of your room. A larger screen may offer a more immersive viewing experience, but it’s important to find the right balance between size and comfort.

Resolution

The resolution of your TV refers to the number of pixels on the screen. A higher resolution means sharper and more detailed images. Look for a TV with at least 1080p resolution, or consider upgrading to 4K for even better picture quality.

Smart Features

Many modern TVs come with built-in smart features, such as streaming apps and voice control. These features can make it easier to access your favorite content and control your TV. Consider whether you want these features and how important they are to you.

Price

Finally, consider your budget when choosing a refresh rate TV. Prices can vary widely depending on the size, features, and brand of the TV. Look for a TV that offers the features you need at a price point that works for you.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best refresh rate TV for your needs and enjoy a high-quality viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a higher refresh rate on a TV for gaming?

A higher refresh rate on a TV can significantly enhance the gaming experience. It means that the TV can display more frames per second, resulting in smoother and more fluid motion. This can be especially beneficial for fast-paced games where quick reactions and movements are crucial. A higher refresh rate can also reduce input lag, which is the time it takes for your TV to display your actions on the screen. This can be a game-changer for competitive gaming.

How does a 120Hz refresh rate improve the viewing experience on a 4K TV?

A 120Hz refresh rate on a 4K TV can provide a more immersive and lifelike viewing experience. It means that the TV can display 120 frames per second, which can result in smoother motion and reduce motion blur. This can be especially noticeable when watching fast-paced action scenes or sports. A higher refresh rate can also improve the overall picture quality, making colors and details appear more vibrant and clear.

What should I consider when choosing a TV with a high refresh rate for sports viewing?

When choosing a TV with a high refresh rate for sports viewing, it’s important to consider the size of the TV and the viewing distance. A larger TV with a higher refresh rate can provide a more immersive experience, but it may not be necessary for smaller rooms or shorter viewing distances. It’s also important to consider the type of sports you’ll be watching. For fast-paced sports like football or basketball, a higher refresh rate can result in smoother motion and reduce motion blur.

Is there a noticeable difference between 60Hz and 120Hz TVs for everyday use?

There can be a noticeable difference between 60Hz and 120Hz TVs for everyday use, but it may not be as significant as it is for gaming or sports viewing. A higher refresh rate can provide a smoother and more fluid viewing experience, but it may not be necessary for everyday use. It’s important to consider your personal preferences and the type of content you’ll be watching when choosing a TV with a high refresh rate.

Can a 144Hz refresh rate on a TV benefit console gaming, and how?

A 144Hz refresh rate on a TV can benefit console gaming by providing a smoother and more responsive gaming experience. It means that the TV can display 144 frames per second, resulting in less input lag and smoother motion. This can be especially beneficial for fast-paced games where quick reactions and movements are crucial. However, it’s important to note that not all consoles can support a 144Hz refresh rate.

Are there affordable TVs with a 120Hz refresh rate that don’t compromise on quality?

Yes, there are affordable TVs with a 120Hz refresh rate that don’t compromise on quality. It’s important to do your research and compare different models to find the best option for your budget. Some brands offer budget-friendly options with a 120Hz refresh rate, while others may offer more premium features at a higher price point. It’s also important to consider the overall picture quality and other features that are important to you when choosing a TV.