Best TV to Buy Now: Top Picks for 2024
Television technology has come a long way since the days of bulky CRT screens. Today, we have a vast array of options to choose from when it comes to buying a new TV. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a hardcore cinephile, there’s a TV out there that will suit your needs. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best TVs to buy now.
When it comes to buying a TV, there are several factors to consider, including screen size, resolution, and picture quality. Screen size is perhaps the most crucial factor, as it determines how immersive your viewing experience will be. Resolution is also essential, as it affects the clarity and sharpness of the image. Picture quality, including color accuracy and contrast, is another critical factor to consider.
When purchasing a TV, it’s also essential to consider the type of content you’ll be watching. If you’re a sports fan, for example, you’ll want a TV with a high refresh rate to ensure smooth and fluid motion. If you’re a gamer, you’ll want a TV with low input lag to ensure a responsive gaming experience.
In this article, we’ll be focusing on the best TVs to buy now, taking into account factors such as screen size, resolution, picture quality, and content compatibility. Whether you’re in the market for a budget-friendly option or a top-of-the-line model, we’ve got you covered.
Best TVs
We’ve done the research and testing to bring you our top picks for the best TVs available now. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a top-of-the-line model with all the latest features, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find the perfect TV for your home entertainment setup.
TCL 55-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly 4K TV with great picture quality and a plethora of features, the TCL S4 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The 4K Ultra HD resolution provides stunning detail with four times the resolution of Full HD.
- The HDR PRO (Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG) delivers bright and accurate colors for a lifelike viewing experience.
- The FullView metal bezel-less design gives the TV a modern and elegant look that blends seamlessly into any home.
Cons
- The refresh rate of 60Hz may not be ideal for fast-paced sports or action scenes.
- The sound quality is average and may require external speakers for a better audio experience.
- The “Display -amp; Sounds” menu has been reported to display an empty gray screen with a white bar, which can be frustrating for some users.
We recently purchased the TCL S4 and have been impressed with its performance. The 4K resolution provides stunning detail and the HDR PRO technology enhances the colors for a more lifelike viewing experience. The TV also has a sleek and modern design that looks great in any room.
One downside we’ve noticed is the refresh rate of 60Hz, which may not be ideal for fast-paced sports or action scenes. Additionally, the sound quality is average and may require external speakers for a better audio experience.
Overall, the TCL S4 is an excellent budget-friendly option for those looking for a 4K TV with a great picture quality and a plethora of features.
Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV
If you’re looking for a smart TV that delivers an immersive viewing experience, the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV is a great option. With its vivid 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus support, you can enjoy a clearer and more vibrant picture with brighter colors compared to 1080p Full HD.
Pros
- The 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, and HLG deliver a clearer and more vibrant picture with brighter colors compared to 1080p Full HD.
- The Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote allows you to easily find, launch, and control your content, or check the weather, sports scores, and more.
- You can stream over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, including favorites with subscriptions to Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , and more.
Cons
- The TV legs are a bit far apart, so you’ll need a wider surface to place the TV on.
- The built-in speakers are not very powerful, so you may need to invest in a soundbar or external speakers for a better audio experience.
- The TV is not compatible with all devices, so you may need to purchase additional accessories to connect some devices.
We recently purchased the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV, and we were impressed with its performance. The picture quality is excellent, and the colors are vibrant and true to life. The Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote is also a great feature, as it allows us to easily find and launch our favorite content with just a few words.
One thing we did notice is that the TV legs are a bit far apart, so we needed to find a wider surface to place the TV on. Additionally, the built-in speakers are not very powerful, so we ended up purchasing a soundbar for a better audio experience.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV to anyone looking for a great smart TV with excellent picture quality and a user-friendly interface.
VIZIO 40-inch D-Series Full HD 1080p Smart TV
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly smart TV that delivers crisp, clear picture quality, the VIZIO 40-inch D-Series Full HD 1080p Smart TV is a solid choice.
Pros
- The full array LED backlighting delivers superior light uniformity and picture performance.
- The IQ Picture Processor ensures faster navigation and quicker load times for your favorite content.
- The V-Gaming Engine optimizes picture mode for gaming, making next-gen console gameplay more responsive.
Cons
- The refresh rate of 60 Hz is lower than some higher-end models, which may lead to motion blur during fast-paced action scenes.
- The sound quality is average, so you may want to consider investing in a soundbar or other external speakers.
- The SmartCast app can be slow to load and navigate at times.
We’ve been using the VIZIO 40-inch D-Series Full HD 1080p Smart TV for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its overall performance. The full array LED backlighting ensures that the picture quality is consistently bright and clear, even in darker scenes. The IQ Picture Processor also makes it easy to navigate through the TV’s various features and apps, and we appreciate the V-Gaming Engine’s ability to optimize picture mode for gaming.
That being said, there are a few downsides to consider. The refresh rate of 60 Hz is lower than some other models, which may result in motion blur during fast-paced action scenes. Additionally, the sound quality is average, so you may want to invest in a soundbar or other external speakers if you’re looking for a more immersive audio experience. Finally, while the SmartCast app is generally user-friendly, we did notice that it can be slow to load and navigate at times.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable smart TV that delivers solid picture quality and a range of features, the VIZIO 40-inch D-Series Full HD 1080p Smart TV is a great choice.
INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV with smart capabilities and voice control, the INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote might be a good choice.
Pros
- Enjoy stunning 4K resolution and upscale your current content to Ultra HD-level picture quality.
- Control your TV verbally with Alexa voice control and access thousands of shows with Fire TV.
- Experience immersive audio with DTS Studio Sound and pair with your Amazon Echo for hands-free control.
Cons
- The TV has a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which might not be ideal for fast-paced action scenes.
- Some users have reported issues with the sound quality, which might require additional investment in a soundbar or external speakers.
- The TV is only available in one size (50 inches), which might not be suitable for larger rooms.
We recently purchased the INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote for our living room and have been generally satisfied with our purchase. The picture quality is impressive, and we’ve enjoyed watching our favorite shows and movies in 4K resolution. The Alexa voice control feature has also been convenient, allowing us to search for titles, play music, and control smart home devices with just our voice.
One downside we’ve noticed is that the TV has a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which might not be ideal for sports or action movies with fast-paced scenes. We’ve also experienced some issues with the sound quality, which can be a bit tinny and lacks depth. However, we were able to improve the sound by investing in a soundbar.
Overall, we think the INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote is a good budget-friendly option for those looking for a smart TV with voice control and decent picture quality. However, if you’re looking for a larger TV or have specific requirements for refresh rate or sound quality, you might want to consider other options.
INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV with smart features, the INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The Alexa Voice Remote makes it easy to control your entertainment with just your voice.
- With the Fire TV experience built-in, you have access to over 1 million streaming movies and TV episodes.
- The TV supports Apple AirPlay, so you can easily share videos, photos, music, and more from an Apple device to your TV.
Cons
- The 720p resolution might not be as sharp as higher resolution TVs.
- The TV has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which might not be as smooth as higher refresh rate TVs.
- The TV might not be as durable as more expensive models.
We found that the INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote is a great value for the price. The Alexa Voice Remote is a game-changer, allowing us to easily search for content and control our entertainment with just our voice. The Fire TV experience built-in is also a huge plus, giving us access to a vast library of streaming content. The TV’s support for Apple AirPlay is also a nice touch, making it easy to share content from our Apple devices.
However, the 720p resolution might not be as sharp as higher resolution TVs, and the 60 Hz refresh rate might not be as smooth as higher refresh rate TVs. Additionally, the TV might not be as durable as more expensive models, so it’s important to handle it with care.
Overall, we would recommend the INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote for anyone looking for a budget-friendly TV with smart features.
TCL 85-Inch Q7 QLED 4K Smart TV
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line TV that offers an immersive cinematic experience, the TCL 85-Inch Q7 QLED 4K Smart TV is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With Quantum Dot Technology and UltraWide Color Gamut, this TV offers over a billion colors for rich and lifelike images.
- Full Array PRO Local Dimming with over 200 local dimming zones dynamically adapts to on-screen content, providing deep blacks without image blooming.
- Equipped with Motion Rate 480 and MEMC frame insertion, this TV combines multiple motion enhancement technologies for best-in-class motion clarity.
Cons
- This TV is quite expensive.
- The Google TV interface can be a bit confusing for some users.
- The TV is quite heavy and may require professional installation.
We were blown away by the TCL 85-Inch Q7 QLED 4K Smart TV’s incredible picture quality. The Quantum Dot Technology and UltraWide Color Gamut offer over a billion colors, providing rich and lifelike images. The Full Array PRO Local Dimming with over 200 local dimming zones dynamically adapts to on-screen content, providing deep blacks without image blooming. The Motion Rate 480 and MEMC frame insertion combine multiple motion enhancement technologies for best-in-class motion clarity.
One downside of this TV is its price. It’s quite expensive, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some users may find the Google TV interface a bit confusing. Finally, the TV is quite heavy and may require professional installation.
Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line TV that offers an immersive cinematic experience, the TCL 85-Inch Q7 QLED 4K Smart TV is definitely worth considering.
TCL S4 4K LED Smart TV
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that offers great features, the TCL S4 is a great option.
Pros
- The 4K Ultra HD resolution offers incredible detail with 4X the resolution of 1080p Full HDTVs.
- The Motion Rate 240 with MEMC Frame Insertion technology combines multiple motion enhancement technologies for exceptional motion clarity.
- The HDR PRO (Dolby Vision, HDR10, -amp; HLG) provides enhanced contrast, accurate colors, and fine details utilizing all the most advanced HDR formats.
Cons
- The refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which may not be sufficient for some users.
- The TV’s processor is a bit slow, which can cause lag when navigating menus or streaming content.
- The TV’s built-in speakers are not the best, so you may want to consider purchasing external speakers for a better audio experience.
We were impressed with the TCL S4’s 4K Ultra HD resolution, which offers stunning picture quality with enhanced clarity and detail. The Motion Rate 240 with MEMC Frame Insertion technology is also a standout feature, providing exceptional motion clarity for your favorite shows, movies, and sporting events.
However, the refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which may not be sufficient for some users who want a smoother viewing experience. We also found that the TV’s processor is a bit slow, which can cause lag when navigating menus or streaming content. Additionally, the TV’s built-in speakers are not the best, so you may want to consider purchasing external speakers for a better audio experience.
Overall, the TCL S4 is a great budget-friendly TV that offers plenty of features and impressive picture quality. If you’re looking for a TV that won’t break the bank, this is definitely one to consider.
TCL 85-Inch QM8 QLED 4K Smart Mini LED TV
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line TV that offers stunning picture quality, the TCL 85-Inch QM8 QLED 4K Smart Mini LED TV is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 85-inch screen is perfect for immersive viewing experiences, whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or streaming your favorite shows.
- The QLED technology and UltraWide Color Gamut offer over a billion colors for rich and lifelike images.
- The HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ provides stunning picture clarity, an expanded color spectrum, and incredible contrast for lifelike visuals.
Cons
- The TV is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
- The large screen size may not be suitable for smaller living spaces.
- The TV is quite heavy and may require professional installation.
Overall, we highly recommend the TCL 85-Inch QM8 QLED 4K Smart Mini LED TV for anyone who wants a true flagship 4K TV experience. With its advanced technology and stunning picture quality, this TV is sure to impress even the most discerning viewers.
The TCL Q Class Smart TVs combine stunning 4K HDR and Mini-LED technology in a bold, brushed metal bezel-less design for a true flagship 4K TV experience. With QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ, you can enjoy enhanced contrast, vivid colors and fine details on this 85 inch QLED TV. The TV’s High Brightness ULTRA Direct LED Backlight produces up to 2,000 nits peak brightness for dazzling specular highlights, perfect for any viewing environment. The Mini-LED ULTRA with up to 2300 zones adapt to on-screen content for deep blacks without image blooming.
Powered by TCL’s AIPQ Engine Gen 3, this flat screen TV is equipped with an advanced processor that optimizes each scene with machine learning for an unrivaled cinematic experience. With a 120Hz native panel refresh rate with Motion Rate 480, this smart TV focuses on best-in-class motion clarity producing smooth video playback. With Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode gameplay is blistering fast keeping you ahead of the competition.
In terms of connectivity, the TV supports Wi-Fi and comes with a Chromecast, making it easy to stream your favorite content from your smartphone or tablet. The TV also comes with a voice remote and works with Alexa, providing a seamless viewing experience.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a high-end TV that offers stunning picture quality, the TCL 85-Inch QM8 QLED 4K Smart Mini LED TV is definitely worth considering.
Hisense 70-Inch Class A6 Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV
If you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable 4K TV, the Hisense A6 series is an excellent choice. With its advanced picture quality enhancements and upgraded operating system, this TV is the perfect fit for consumers who want both options and affordability.
Pros
- The A6 series offers 4K Ultra High Definition, producing a clear and realistic picture. With Hisense’s AI UHD Upscaler, non-4K content is enhanced to near-4K quality.
- Google TV brings together movies, shows, live TV, and more from across your apps and subscriptions, organizing them just for you. You can watch anywhere, anytime, and ask Google to find movies and shows, answer questions, control smart home devices, and more with your voice.
- The A6 series includes Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10, innovative visual technology that brings characters to life with darker darks, brighter brights, and an unmatched color range.
Cons
- The shimmering effect when viewing at an angle is a minor drawback.
- The standard Google TV OS may not be as customizable as some users would prefer.
- The built-in speakers may not be as powerful as some users would like.
Overall, the Hisense A6 series is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an affordable, high-quality 4K TV. Its advanced picture quality, Google TV, and Dolby Vision HDR make it an excellent option for both movie and gaming enthusiasts.
TOSHIBA 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (43C350LU, 2023 Model)
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV with a crisp, clear picture, the TOSHIBA 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Fire TV feature is incredibly user-friendly and makes it easy to navigate between live TV and streaming channels.
- The Regza Engine 4K technology provides stunning picture quality, with vivid colors and sharp details.
- The Auto Low Latency Game Mode is a great feature for gamers, reducing input lag for a smoother gaming experience.
Cons
- The TV’s sound quality is average at best and may require additional speakers for a better audio experience.
- The TV’s durability is questionable, with some users reporting issues with the TV breaking or malfunctioning after a short period of time.
- The TV’s interface can be slow to load and may require some patience when switching between apps or channels.
Overall, the TOSHIBA 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable TV with decent picture quality and user-friendly features. However, if you’re looking for top-of-the-line sound quality or a TV with a more durable build, you may want to consider other options.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a new TV, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look out for:
Screen Size
The size of the TV you choose will depend on the size of the room it will be placed in and your viewing preferences. A larger screen size will provide a more immersive viewing experience, but it may not be suitable for smaller rooms. Consider the distance between the TV and the seating area to determine the ideal screen size.
Resolution
Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the display. A higher resolution will provide a clearer and more detailed picture. Look for TVs with at least a 1080p resolution, but if you want the best picture quality, consider a 4K TV.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is the number of times the screen is refreshed per second. A higher refresh rate will provide smoother motion and reduce motion blur. Look for TVs with a refresh rate of at least 60Hz.
Smart TV Features
Smart TVs allow you to access streaming services and browse the internet directly from your TV. Look for TVs with built-in Wi-Fi and app support for the streaming services you use most.
HDR
HDR (High Dynamic Range) provides a wider range of colors and brightness levels, resulting in a more lifelike picture. Look for TVs with HDR support for the best picture quality.
By considering these factors, you can find the best TV for your needs and enjoy a high-quality viewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a smart TV currently on the market?
When shopping for a smart TV, it’s important to consider the following features:
- Operating System: Look for a TV with a user-friendly operating system that allows you to easily navigate through apps and settings.
- Connectivity: Make sure the TV has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy streaming and device pairing.
- Picture Quality: Look for a TV with 4K Ultra HD resolution and HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology for the best picture quality.
- Sound Quality: Consider a TV with built-in speakers that deliver clear and powerful sound.
- Smart Features: Look for a TV with smart features like voice control, app compatibility, and screen mirroring.
How do OLED and QLED technologies compare in today’s televisions?
OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) and QLED (Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode) are two popular TV display technologies. OLED TVs offer deeper blacks and wider viewing angles, while QLED TVs offer brighter and more vibrant colors. Ultimately, the choice between these two technologies comes down to personal preference and budget.
What are the best performing TV brands available today?
Some of the top performing TV brands on the market today include Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio. These brands are known for producing high-quality TVs with advanced features and reliable performance.
Which size TV provides the best value for households at the moment?
The best TV size for your household depends on your viewing preferences and the size of your room. Generally, a 55-inch TV provides a good balance between screen size and value.
How do I choose the best TV for my specific viewing preferences?
Consider the following factors when choosing a TV for your specific viewing preferences:
- Content: If you watch a lot of sports or action movies, look for a TV with a fast refresh rate and low input lag.
- Room Lighting: If you watch TV in a bright room, look for a TV with high brightness levels and anti-glare technology.
- Viewing Distance: If you sit far away from the TV, consider a larger screen size for optimal viewing.
What should I consider when looking for a high-quality television with a budget in mind?
When shopping for a budget-friendly TV, consider the following:
- Brand Reputation: Look for a reputable brand that offers good value for the price.
- Screen Size: Consider a smaller screen size to save money.
- Features: Prioritize the features that are most important to you and your viewing habits.