Top 5 QLED TVs for Home Entertainment

Buying Guide for Best QLED TVs

Ready to buy now? Shop the best:

• Best of the Best: TCL Class Q6 Series
• Best Bang for the Buck: Fire TV Omni QLED Series
• Feature-packed: Samsung The Frame QLED Series
• Cleanest Visuals: Samsung Class QN90C Series
• Best for Sports: Hisense Class U6 Series

The world of television technology has seen rapid advancements, with modern devices now boasting impressive sizes, remarkable detail, and powerful capabilities. Whether you’re a fan of movies, sports, or video games, there are countless options out there. Quantum Dot LED (QLED) TVs, developed by Samsung, provide outstanding detail and brightness, allowing for a cinema-like experience at home.

Since their introduction in 2017, QLED TVs have gained immense popularity. Samsung has collaborated with brands like Hisense, TCL, and Vizio to broaden the accessibility of QLED technology.

As numerous brands and technologies compete for attention, it’s vital to understand what QLED TVs provide and how they stack up against other options.

Key Considerations

Understanding QLED

QLED stands for “quantum-dot light-emitting diode,” a display technology that has evolved over the years. While the term “quantum” may sound technical, it essentially serves as a marketing term. QLED TVs are essentially an upgraded version of Samsung’s Super Ultra HD (SUHD) TVs.

In simple terms, QLED TVs enhance the traditional LED technology that’s been around for decades. In LED TVs, pixels are lit from behind to create images, with local dimming allowing specific areas to be illuminated or darkened based on the content.

QLED incorporates a quantum-dot filter between the screen and backlight, enhancing the colour spectrum and improving contrast. This results in brighter colours, especially whites; however, some users may notice contrast issues with darker shades. While older QLED models may suffer from shadowing or blurring, newer options have made significant improvements.

Resolution Matters

Most QLED TVs now feature 4K resolution, which is the standard for contemporary televisions. Known as Ultra High Definition (UHD), 4K has four times the pixel count of Full HD, boasting over 8 million pixels. Many new films and premium series are produced in 4K, allowing you to enjoy them as intended. For older content, these TVs can upscale to improve the picture quality.

Additionally, 8K QLED TVs are available, offering nearly four times the pixel count of 4K, which results in astonishing clarity and detail. However, these models can be quite expensive, and the availability of native 8K content is still limited.

Brightness Features

High dynamic range (HDR) technology enables TVs to achieve remarkable brightness and colour saturation, replicating the original vision more accurately. QLED TVs support HDR, with various versions available. Samsung’s models feature HDR10+, which offers improved brightness and enhanced contrast compared to standard HDR10.

Features of QLED TVs

Size Options

QLED TVs vary in size, from 43 to 98 inches, so it’s essential to measure your available space. A 65-inch TV is typically suitable for an average-sized living room, while larger sizes can create a more immersive viewing experience.

Neo QLED Technology

Samsung’s Neo QLED is the latest innovation, featuring mini LED backlighting for enhanced dimming capabilities, increased brightness, and improved contrast.

Smart Platforms

Samsung TVs utilise the Tizen Smart TV platform for easy access to popular streaming apps such as Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube, and Netflix. TCL TVs, on the other hand, utilise Roku TV, which offers a simple interface, while Hisense TVs feature Android TV, making them ideal for Google users.

Specialty QLED Options

Samsung presents an array of specialty QLED TVs tailored for specific needs:

• The Terrace: Designed for outdoor viewing, this model minimises glare and withstands various weather conditions.
• The Frame: This unique QLED TV can display artworks when not in use, blending seamlessly into your home.
• The Sero: This model caters to social media enthusiasts, allowing users to rotate the display between landscape and portrait orientations.
• The Serif: A freestanding TV that can be easily positioned away from walls, suitable for open-plan living spaces.

Quantum dots are less prone to burn-in compared to other technologies, ensuring your TV remains in good condition for several years.

Recommended Accessories

Soundbar: Consider the Samsung HW-Q800A 3.1.2 Channel Soundbar for enhanced audio quality. While QLED TVs provide decent sound, this soundbar is designed to complement their capabilities.

4K Blu-ray Player: A reliable option like the Sony 4K Home Blu-ray Player will ensure you enjoy 4K content without interruptions from lag or buffering.

Pricing Overview

Budget-Friendly: The most affordable QLED TVs start at around $750, including models from budget brands and smaller Samsung options.

Mid-Range: Expect to pay between $750 and $2,000 for most QLED TVs, including Samsung’s specialty lines and Neo QLED models.

Premium: The newest and largest QLED TVs can exceed $2,000, with many 8K models ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.

Helpful Tips

• Mount Your TV: We recommend wall-mounting your TV to optimise viewing angles and save space.
• Check Connections: Ensure your QLED TV has adequate HDMI ports, particularly HDMI 2.1 for fast 4K transmission, and use compatible cables.
• Adjust Settings: Experiment with display settings based on your viewing environment to achieve the best picture quality.
• Utilise SmartThings: If you have other Samsung smart devices, connect them to your TV for easier control.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between QLED and OLED TVs?

A: Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) TVs, favoured by LG, have individually lit pixels for better contrast, especially in dark scenes. However, they don’t achieve the same brightness levels as QLED TVs, and OLED models tend to be more expensive.

What does “motion rate” mean?

A: Motion rate refers to the refresh rate, indicating how often the screen refreshes per second. While the standard is 60 hertz, QLED TVs often feature rates of 120 hertz or higher, which helps reduce motion blur during fast-paced scenes.

Are QLED TVs suitable for gaming?

A: Yes, QLED TVs excel for gaming due to their brightness and high refresh rates. Many models offer features like Real Game Enhancer and low latency mode, ensuring a smooth gaming experience.