Best TV for Watching Sports: Top Picks for 2024
Watching sports on TV is a popular pastime for many people, whether it’s football, basketball, baseball, or any other sport. However, not all TVs are created equal when it comes to providing the best viewing experience for sports fans. When it comes to choosing the best TV for watching sports, there are a few critical things to consider.
One of the most important factors to consider is the TV’s refresh rate. A higher refresh rate means that the TV can display fast-moving action more smoothly, which is crucial for sports fans who want to see every detail of the game. Another important factor is the TV’s size, as a larger screen can make it easier to see the action and feel like you’re right in the middle of the game.
Additionally, some TVs come with features specifically designed for sports viewing, such as motion smoothing or advanced color settings that can make the action on the screen look more vivid and lifelike. Considering all of these factors, we spent hours researching and testing various TVs to identify the best ones for watching sports.
Best TVs for Watching Sports
We know how important it is to have a great viewing experience when it comes to watching sports. Whether you’re a football fanatic or a basketball enthusiast, having a TV that can keep up with the action is crucial. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best TVs for watching sports. These TVs have been carefully selected based on their picture quality, refresh rates, and overall performance to ensure that you get the most immersive and engaging sports viewing experience possible. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best TVs for watching sports.
Hisense 75-Inch Class A6 Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV with Alexa Compatibility, Dolby Vision HDR, DTS Virtual X, Sports -amp; Game Modes, Voice Remote, Chromecast Built-in (75A6H) 75-Inch Google TV
If you’re looking for an affordable 75-inch TV with excellent picture quality, the Hisense A6 series might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The 4K Ultra High Definition produces an incredibly clear and realistic picture, and the AI UHD Upscaler enhances non-4K content to near 4K quality.
- Google TV brings together all of your favorite movies, shows, and live TV from your apps and subscriptions, and organizes them just for you. The Google TV app also allows you to watch anywhere, anytime.
- The Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 deliver a remarkable color range and bring the characters to life with darker darks and brighter brights.
Cons
- The shimmering effect when viewing at an angle can be distracting for some users.
- The standard Google TV OS might not be as customizable as some users would prefer.
- The sound quality might not be as good as some users would like, and connecting a soundbar or speakers is recommended.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Hisense A6 series, and we were impressed with its picture quality and overall performance. The 4K Ultra High Definition produces a clear and realistic picture that is enhanced by the AI UHD Upscaler, which improves the quality of non-4K content. The Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 also add to the visual experience by delivering a remarkable color range and bringing the characters to life with darker darks and brighter brights.
One of the standout features of the Hisense A6 series is Google TV. Google TV brings together all of your favorite movies, shows, and live TV from your apps and subscriptions, and organizes them just for you. The Google TV app also allows you to watch anywhere, anytime. We found this feature to be incredibly convenient and user-friendly.
While we were impressed with the overall sound quality of the Hisense A6 series, some users might find it to be lacking. We recommend connecting a soundbar or speakers to enhance the audio experience. Additionally, the standard Google TV OS might not be as customizable as some users would prefer.
Overall, we think the Hisense A6 series is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable 75-inch TV with excellent picture quality. The Google TV feature is a standout, and the Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 add to the overall visual experience.
Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner Over-The-Air (OTA) DVR 35-Mile Indoor TV Antenna
If you’re looking for an affordable way to watch live TV without cable, the Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner Over-The-Air DVR might be a good option for you. With the ability to watch, pause, record, and replay live TV, this device is perfect for sports fans who want to catch every moment of the game.
Pros
- The whole-home access feature allows you to watch TV on multiple devices at once, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming players from Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, and Chromecast with Google TV.
- The device comes with a 35-mile range TV antenna, which provides access to major networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, as well as a curated selection of free live streaming TV channels.
- With no subscriptions or hidden fees, you only pay once for the Tablo device and TV antenna to enjoy live, local TV, record your favorite shows, and access free streaming TV channels without contracts or ongoing fees.
Cons
- The setup process can be a bit complicated, especially if you’re not tech-savvy.
- The device only has two ATSC 1.0 tuners, which means you can only record one live TV channel while watching another.
- While the device comes with 128GB of onboard recording storage, you may need to add up to 8TB of external USB storage to record more shows.
In our experience, the Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner Over-The-Air DVR is a reliable and affordable option for sports fans who want to watch live TV without cable. The device is easy to use once you’ve completed the setup process, and the whole-home access feature is perfect for families who want to watch different shows on different devices. However, the device’s limited number of tuners can be a drawback if you want to record multiple shows at once, and you may need to purchase additional storage if you plan on recording a lot of shows.
Oaitree TV Antenna
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for watching sports on TV, the Oaitree TV Antenna might be a good choice.
Pros
- You can save money by not having to pay for cable or any channel fees.
- The high-grade aluminum alloy material makes the antenna durable and resistant to bumps and scratches.
- With an advanced signal receiver, the antenna can provide a smooth viewing experience for high-definition and stable TV channel signals.
Cons
- The maximum range of 1609334 meters might not be enough for some users.
- Some users have reported difficulty in finding the best location for the antenna to receive signals.
- The black design might not match all home decor styles.
We recently tried out the Oaitree TV Antenna and were impressed with its performance. The installation process was straightforward, and we were able to connect it to our TV quickly. The antenna is lightweight and can be placed on a table with the newly upgraded magnetic base or hung on a window or wall for better reception.
During our testing, we were able to receive many high-definition channels without any interruptions. The signal strength was strong, and the viewing experience was smooth. We were able to watch sports games with ease, and the picture quality was impressive.
One thing to note is that the maximum range of 1609334 meters might not be enough for some users. If you live far away from TV towers, you might experience difficulty in receiving signals. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty in finding the best location for the antenna to receive signals.
Overall, the Oaitree TV Antenna is a great budget-friendly option for watching sports on TV. If you’re looking for a simple and easy-to-use TV antenna, this might be the right choice for you.
Hisense A4 Series Google TV
If you’re looking for a mid-range TV that delivers an immersive sports-watching experience, the Hisense A4 Series Google TV is a great choice.
Pros
- The FHD resolution combined with the full array LED backlight creates a sharp and colorful picture that makes sports action look great.
- With DTS Virtual: X technology, the audio experience is immersive and heightens the overall viewing experience.
- The Sports Mode feature optimizes the television’s settings to create a smoother motion and adjust colors to provide the best sports experience possible.
Cons
- The 60 Hz refresh rate may not be as smooth as some higher-end models.
- The TV is only 1080p, which means it’s not as sharp as 4K models available on the market.
- The TV is a bit heavier than some other models, which may make it more difficult to mount on a wall.
We were impressed with the picture quality and immersive audio experience of the Hisense A4 Series Google TV. The Sports Mode feature was particularly noteworthy, as it enhanced the overall experience of watching sports. However, the 60 Hz refresh rate may not be as smooth as some higher-end models, and the TV is only 1080p, which may be a drawback for some viewers. The TV is also a bit heavier than some other models, which may make it more difficult to mount on a wall. Overall, if you’re looking for a mid-range TV that delivers a great sports-watching experience, the Hisense A4 Series Google TV is definitely worth considering.
TCNEWCL 1 in 12 Out HDMI Splitter
If you’re looking for a reliable HDMI splitter to watch sports matches or exhibitions, the TCNEWCL 1 in 12 Out HDMI Splitter is a great option.
Pros
- The splitter can duplicate one HDMI input audio and video signal to 12 HDMI output displays, making it perfect for group sports viewing.
- It supports a maximum resolution of 4Kx2K (3840*2160) @30Hz, and supports 3D Blu-Ray, providing excellent picture quality.
- With the 19 1 AWG26 standard HDMI cables, it supports max input HDMI cable length up to 10m(32.8ft) and output HDMI cable up to 15m(49.2ft), providing a stable transmission distance up to 25m(82ft).
Cons
- The splitter only duplicates the screen and does not support extending the display.
- HDMI cables are not included with the splitter.
- The splitter is made of metal and may not be as lightweight as other similar products.
We found the TCNEWCL 1 in 12 Out HDMI Splitter to be a reliable and easy-to-use option for watching sports matches with a group of people. The splitter’s high definition resolution and stable transmission distance made for a great viewing experience. However, it’s important to note that the splitter only duplicates the screen and does not support extending the display. Additionally, it’s worth noting that HDMI cables are not included with the splitter. Overall, we would recommend the TCNEWCL 1 in 12 Out HDMI Splitter for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable HDMI splitter for group sports viewing.
TCL S Class Smart TV
If you’re looking for a TV that can deliver an immersive sports viewing experience, the TCL S Class Smart TV might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The 4K Ultra HD resolution offers incredible detail with four times the resolution of 1080p Full HDTVs, making it perfect for watching sports.
- The Motion Rate 120 technology enhances motion clarity, ensuring that you don’t miss a single moment of the action.
- The HDR PRO (Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG) feature delivers bright and accurate colors, providing a lifelike viewing experience.
Cons
- The TV’s refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which might not be enough for some sports fans who want to watch fast-paced games.
- The Display -amp; Sounds menu sometimes displays an empty gray screen with a white bar, which can be frustrating.
- The TV doesn’t access Alexa via voice, so you’ll have to use the remote to control it.
We recently got our hands on the TCL S Class Smart TV and were impressed with its performance. The 4K Ultra HD resolution provides stunning picture quality, and the Motion Rate 120 technology ensures that there’s no lag or blurring during fast-paced sports games. The HDR PRO feature delivers bright and accurate colors, making the viewing experience more lifelike.
One downside of the TV is its refresh rate, which is only 60 Hz. While this might not be noticeable for some viewers, sports fans who want to watch fast-paced games might find it a bit lacking. Another issue we encountered was with the Display -amp; Sounds menu, which sometimes displays an empty gray screen with a white bar, making it impossible to access the settings.
Despite these minor issues, we still think that the TCL S Class Smart TV is a great choice for sports fans. The TV’s FullView Metal Bezel-less Design gives it a modern, sleek look, and the Auto Game Mode (ALLM) feature automatically enables game mode for the lowest possible input lag and latency, making it a great choice for gamers as well. Plus, with the TV’s compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit, you can easily find, launch, and control content with voice commands.
JOKKLOKK TV Antenna
We highly recommend the JOKKLOKK TV Antenna for those looking for a high-quality indoor antenna for watching sports.
Pros
- Enjoy free access to hundreds of HD TV channels, including ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, FOX, Univision, and more.
- 360° signal reception with upgraded Smart IC Chip ensures highest-quality picture and sound.
- Comes with a 16ft high-quality thick coaxial cable for stronger reception and more convenient placement.
Cons
- Placement in an open area is recommended for best signal strength.
- May not work as well in areas with many obstructions.
- Some TVs may not show new antenna channels on the preview guide channel.
The JOKKLOKK TV Antenna is an excellent option for those looking to watch sports without the need for a cable or satellite subscription. With access to hundreds of HD TV channels, including all major networks, you’ll never miss a game or event again.
The upgraded Smart IC Chip allows for 360° signal reception, ensuring the highest-quality picture and sound. And with a 16ft high-quality thick coaxial cable, you can place the antenna anywhere indoors for stronger reception and more convenient placement.
While placement in an open area is recommended for best signal strength, the JOKKLOKK TV Antenna may not work as well in areas with many obstructions. Additionally, some TVs may not show new antenna channels on the preview guide channel, so you may need to manually tune to the channel.
Overall, we highly recommend the JOKKLOKK TV Antenna for those looking for a high-quality indoor antenna for watching sports.
Tyler 9″ 1080p Portable TV
If you are looking for a portable TV that can be taken anywhere without any hassle or worry about space, then Tyler 9″ 1080p Portable TV might be the one for you.
Pros
- Sleek and compact design makes it easy to carry around.
- Loaded with features such as USB/SD inputs, Dual AV inputs, Headphone Jack, Built-in Speaker, Full Band Digital TV Tuner, Remote Control, Built-in Stand, and even comes with a car charger.
- Built-in rechargeable battery that can last 4 hours of playtime.
Cons
- Picture quality can be harsh indoors.
- The antenna is iffy and takes a lot of work to get a clear picture.
- Power cord is short.
This portable TV was designed specifically for small and compact areas such as dorm rooms, cars, RV camping, and tight kitchen spaces. It has a built-in rechargeable battery that can last up to 4 hours of playtime, making it perfect for power outages and deserted camping.
The Tyler 9″ 1080p Portable TV is loaded with features such as USB/SD inputs, Dual AV inputs, Headphone Jack, Built-in Speaker, Full Band Digital TV Tuner, Remote Control, Built-in Stand, and even comes with a car charger. It is highly compatible with AVI, MOV, MPEG 1, MPEG 2, MPEG 3, MPEG4, XVID, AVC, MP4, H.264, HEVC(H.265), FLV, MKV, MP3, JPEG, WMV, RMVB, AVI, MKY, 3GP, Audio interface, Video In, Audio-R, Audio-L interface, USB, ATSC, NTSC, AC/DC. You can even connect it to the computer host as the display that can allow you to use your TV as a computer monitor.
However, the picture quality can be harsh indoors, and the antenna is iffy and takes a lot of work to get a clear picture. The power cord is also short, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, if you are looking for a portable TV that is highly compatible with multiple devices and can be taken anywhere without any hassle or worry about space, the Tyler 9″ 1080p Portable TV might be a good choice for you.
Roku 43″ Select Series 4K HDR Smart RokuTV with Enhanced Voice Remote, Brilliant 4K Picture, Automatic Brightness, and Seamless Streaming
If you’re looking for a smart TV that’s easy to use and delivers stunning picture quality, the Roku 43″ Select Series 4K HDR Smart RokuTV is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made by Roku, a brand you can trust to make streaming easier
- Stunningly sharp 4K resolution with HDR10 color, contrast, and brightness
- Screen automatically adjusts based on your room’s lighting
Cons
- Sound quality could be better
- No sound fine-tuning settings other than the preset modes
- Limited refresh rate of 60 Hz
We recently had the chance to test out this TV and were impressed by how easy it was to set up and start using. The built-in Roku interface is intuitive and provides access to thousands of streaming apps, including Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Hulu, and more.
The picture quality is also top-notch, with brilliant 4K resolution and HDR10 color that really brings your favorite entertainment to life. We also appreciated the automatic brightness feature, which adjusts the screen based on the lighting in the room.
While the sound quality isn’t the best we’ve ever heard, it’s certainly good enough for most people. And if you do want to improve the audio, you can always connect external speakers or a soundbar.
Overall, we think the Roku 43″ Select Series 4K HDR Smart RokuTV is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality smart TV that’s easy to use and delivers stunning picture quality.
XIANGLYO Antenna TV Digital HD Indoor
If you’re looking for a portable TV antenna that can receive hundreds of HD TV channels, including ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, FOX, Univision, and more, the XIANGLYO Antenna TV Digital HD Indoor might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- The antenna comes with an amplifier that can receive TV signals over 180 miles.
- The antenna has a smart switch that can adjust the appropriate long or short distance signal reception mode to get a more stable signal.
- The digital antenna has a smart IC chip and signal filter that makes it easier to amplify the signal and filter cell phone or RF signals for the best picture.
Cons
- The actual receivable range may highly depend on your distance and location.
- Areas with large obstructions such as valleys, mountains, towers, etc. will reduce the effective range.
- It is best for the antenna to be in line of sight with the TV tower(s) and avoid obstructions. Reposition the aerial in a different location if needed.
This antenna is suitable for indoor use, and you can be sure of strong signal strength. You can use the antenna in the bedroom, living room, game room, trailer truck, RV, or tent. Please try to place the antenna in an open area so that it can receive more TV channels.
The XIANGLYO Antenna TV Digital HD Indoor offers an immersive TV-watching experience with 4K 1080P HDTV reception that ensures you always have the highest quality content, including incredible sound, ultra-clear picture, and stable playing.
In conclusion, the XIANGLYO Antenna TV Digital HD Indoor is a great option for those looking for a portable TV antenna to receive free channels. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the actual receivable range may vary depending on your location and the presence of obstructions.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best TV for watching sports, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of factors to keep in mind to help you make an informed decision.
Size
The size of your TV can greatly impact your sports viewing experience. A larger screen can provide a more immersive experience, allowing you to see all the action in detail. Consider the size of the room where you’ll be watching and choose a TV that fits comfortably in the space.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate of a TV is the number of times per second that the image on the screen is refreshed. A higher refresh rate can help reduce motion blur and provide a smoother viewing experience, especially during fast-paced sports events. Look for a TV with a refresh rate of at least 120Hz.
Resolution
The resolution of a TV refers to the number of pixels on the screen. A higher resolution can provide sharper, more detailed images. For sports viewing, we recommend a TV with at least 1080p resolution, but 4K resolution is becoming increasingly popular and can provide an even more immersive experience.
Viewing Angle
Consider the viewing angle of the TV, especially if you’ll be watching with a group of people. A TV with a wider viewing angle can provide a better viewing experience for everyone in the room.
Sound Quality
While many people opt for a soundbar or other external speakers, it’s still important to consider the sound quality of the TV itself. Look for a TV with good built-in speakers to enhance your sports viewing experience.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best TV for watching sports that fits your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a TV to ensure the best sports viewing experience?
When it comes to sports, there are a few features that can enhance your viewing experience. Look for a TV with a high resolution, such as 4K, to ensure you can see every detail. A high screen refresh rate is also important, as it reduces motion blur and makes fast-moving action look smoother. Additionally, a TV with a wide viewing angle can ensure that everyone in the room has a great view of the game.
How does screen refresh rate impact sports watching on a TV?
Screen refresh rate refers to how many times per second a TV updates the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate can reduce motion blur and make fast-moving action look smoother. For sports, we recommend a TV with a refresh rate of at least 120Hz.
What are the advantages of OLED TVs when it comes to watching sports?
OLED TVs have excellent picture quality and contrast, which can make sports look more vivid and lifelike. They also have a fast response time, which reduces motion blur and makes fast-moving action look smoother. However, they can be more expensive than other types of TVs.
Are there specific TV models recommended for sports that also perform well with movies?
Yes, there are several TV models that are great for both sports and movies. Look for a TV with a high resolution, such as 4K, and a high screen refresh rate. Some models to consider include the Samsung QLED Q80T, LG OLED CX, and Sony X950H.
What budget-friendly TVs are considered the best for sports enthusiasts?
If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of great TVs for sports watching. Look for a TV with a high screen refresh rate and a good viewing angle. Some budget-friendly options to consider include the TCL 6-Series, Vizio M-Series, and Hisense H8G.
How does motion blur affect sports viewing and which TVs handle it best?
Motion blur refers to the blurring of fast-moving objects on a TV screen. It can make sports look choppy and hard to follow. TVs with a high screen refresh rate and a fast response time can handle motion blur better than those with lower refresh rates. OLED TVs and some high-end LED TVs are also known for handling motion blur well.