Top 5 4K TVs for Every Home
TCL 65″ Class Q6-Series 4K UHD HDR QLED Smart Google TV
We found this testing-lab-favorites-february-2024/”>model to be perfect for those seeking a vibrant viewing experience with a user-friendly interface.
- Exceptional colour accuracy and brightness.
- Easy access to popular streaming platforms.
- The built-in speakers could use improvement for enhanced audio.
Roku 50″ Select Series 4K HDR Smart RokuTV
We thought this TV suits budget-conscious buyers who still want a quality 4K experience without compromising on features.
- Affordable price without sacrificing performance.
- Simple interface that makes streaming hassle-free.
- The screen size may feel small for larger rooms.
Westinghouse 43-Inch 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart TV
We found this model ideal for small spaces or as a secondary TV, offering solid performance for its size.
- Compact design fits well in limited spaces.
- Good picture quality at an accessible price point.
- Limited features compared to larger, more expensive models.
Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD Smart TV
We really liked how this model integrates seamlessly with the Alexa ecosystem, making it perfect for smart home enthusiasts.
- Excellent voice control capabilities with Alexa.
- Solid picture quality for the price.
- Limited sound quality from built-in speakers.
Samsung The Frame TV (2025)
We thought this model was a brilliant choice for those who appreciate aesthetics, as it doubles as art when not in use.
- Transforms into artwork with customizable bezels.
- High-quality display with vibrant colours and excellent HDR support.
- It’s on the pricier side compared to standard models.
Best 4K TVs
Ready to buy now? shop the best:
- Best of the Best: TCL 65″ Q6-Series 4K QLED Smart Google TV
- Best Bang for the Buck: Roku 50″ Select Series 4K TV
- Budget Pick: Westinghouse 43″ 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart TV
- Premium Amazon: Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD
- Work of Art: Samsung 55″ The Frame QLED 4K Smart TV
4K TVs have become the standard in the television market, available in a wide variety of sizes and price ranges. With the rise of streaming services such as Netflix and HBO offering content in 4K, many consumers may not even notice they’ve transitioned to a 4K TV until they experience the improved sharpness of their favourite shows.
The term ‘4K’, also known as Ultra HD (UHD), refers to the resolution of the screen. A 4K display contains approximately four times the number of pixels of a 1080p (Full HD) screen, resulting in clearer and more detailed images. This technology has been prevalent since its introduction in 2013, and it remains the preferred choice for avid streamers.
When selecting a 4K TV, it’s crucial to consider more than just the resolution. Key factors such as picture quality—including contrast, brightness, and colour accuracy—are paramount. The size of the TV is also significant; choosing the right size depends on your room size and desired viewing experience. Given that many flat-screen TVs may come with subpar built-in audio, assessing the sound capabilities, including support for surround sound and Dolby Atmos, is advisable.
Our top pick for the best 4K TV is the LG C2 Series OLED Smart TV. We appreciate its exceptional picture quality and contrast made possible by its OLED display. However, we recognise that OLED TVs can be quite costly, which is why we also recommend the TCL 6-Series QLED Smart Roku TV as a fantastic budget choice—offering impressive performance and features at under £1,000 for a 65-inch model.
Best 4K TVs
LG C2 Series
The LG C2 series of smart OLED TVs stands out for its remarkable picture quality. We found the true blacks and infinite contrast of OLED technology to be unmatched. Additionally, the C2 series offers brightness and colour enhancements that address common OLED concerns.
This model is available in sizes ranging from 42 to 83 inches. It excels at upscaling non-4K content and features Dolby Atmos support for an immersive audio experience. Moreover, it supports HDR standards including HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, making it ideal for movie lovers and gamers alike.
With four HDMI 2.1 ports, the C2 provides robust connections for gaming consoles and other devices while granting access to all major streaming platforms. Furthermore, it is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and supports Apple AirPlay and HomeKit.
TCL 6-Series
The TCL 6 Series has a reputation for delivering high-end features at competitive prices. We appreciated the QLED display, which offers vivid colours and brightness, while the Mini-LED backlighting enhances contrast significantly.
It runs on the Roku platform, providing an extensive library of streaming content, both paid and free. For gamers, the 6 Series features a 120-hertz refresh rate, auto game mode, and support for AMD FreeSync VRR. It includes four HDMI ports, two of which are high-speed, and is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Samsung QN90B Series
With vibrant colours and impressive brightness, the Samsung QN90B series exemplifies the strength of QLED technology. We found this series to be sleek in design, supporting HDR32K for enhanced contrast.
The QN90B boasts a smooth 120-hertz refresh rate and employs an AI-powered processor for upscaling content. Additionally, it supports Dolby Atmos and 3D object tracking for an exceptional audio experience. While Samsung’s Tizen OS may not be universally appealing, this TV supports all major streaming services and is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Amazon Fire TV Omni Series
Amazon’s Omni Series represents a great mid-range option. We tested it and appreciated the solid picture quality it delivers, although it doesn’t quite match the excellence of OLED or QLED displays.
This series excels with deep Alexa integration, allowing voice commands for many functions. If you’re already in the Amazon ecosystem with a Prime account, we believe you’ll enjoy the Omni Series, which also supports Apple AirPlay and popular streaming services.
Samsung The Frame (2022)
Samsung’s The Frame is a unique choice, serving as both a TV and a decorative piece. We love how it transforms into art when not in use, thanks to its anti-glare screen and swappable bezels.
With rich colour and excellent HDR support, The Frame offers a fast 120-hertz refresh rate and access to a variety of streaming options, making it a versatile choice for any home.
How we tested
In our evaluation of the latest 4K TV models, we focused on a 50-inch class Amazon Fire TV Omni Series in our testing lab, assessing its performance in several key areas.
Ease of use
- Setup: We examined how straightforward it was for a single user to set up, from unboxing to personalising the streaming OS.
- User interface: As smart TVs are prevalent, we evaluated the intuitiveness of the user interface, especially for streaming apps.
- Remote and voice assistant: We tested the effectiveness of the TV’s remote control and its responsiveness to voice commands via assistants like Alexa.
Quality
- Picture: We assessed picture quality by watching various TV programs and videos in different lighting conditions, comparing it with non-4K TVs.
- Audio: We listened to the built-in speakers and tested connectivity with external audio systems.
Advanced features
- Screen mirroring: We evaluated the ease of connecting to other devices via wireless connections.
- Gaming: We checked the TV’s responsiveness to fast-paced gaming and compatibility with consoles.
- Accessibility features: We reviewed the functionality of features like screen readers and closed captioning.
What to know before you buy a 4K TV
Different Display Technologies: OLED, QLED, LED
Understanding the various display technologies is crucial. OLED, QLED, and LED represent different methods of producing images. OLED displays operate without a backlight, allowing each pixel to emit its own light, which results in superior black levels. In contrast, QLED and LED displays use a backlight, with QLED models incorporating quantum dots for enhanced colour accuracy.
Choosing the Right Size
While larger TVs may seem appealing, it’s essential to select a size that complements your room. A general guideline suggests sitting at a distance of 1.5 times the vertical screen size for optimal viewing. For instance, a 65-inch 4K TV typically has a vertical size of 32 inches, translating to a recommended viewing distance of about four feet.
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
HDR significantly enhances the viewing experience by improving both contrast and colour quality. The most common HDR formats are HDR10 and Dolby Vision, the latter often recognised for superior image quality.
HDMI Ports
Ensure your 4K TV has sufficient HDMI ports for all your devices. Look for HDMI 2.1 ports, as they support higher bandwidth and better performance.
FAQ
Q. How much does a 4K TV cost?
A. Prices can range significantly based on size and technology, from around £250 for smaller LED models to nearly £4,000 for premium OLED displays. Common sizes like 55 to 65 inches typically fall between £450 and £2,000.
Q. What should gamers look for in a 4K TV?
A. For gaming, focus on fast refresh rates, low input lag, and HDMI 2.1 compatibility to leverage the latest console features.
Q. Should I update the firmware on my 4K TV?
A. Yes, regularly updating the firmware ensures you receive the latest features and security improvements.
Q. Where can I find 4K TV shows and movies?
A. Many streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime offer a wide selection of 4K content, alongside Ultra HD Blu-rays.
Q. Do I need new HDMI cables for a 4K TV?
A. If your HDMI cable is from the last few years and marked as Ultra High-Speed, it should work fine with 4K TVs. However, for maximum performance, HDMI 2.1 cables are recommended.