The 6 Best Small TVs - Summer 2019
Reviews

Even though 55" and 65" have become the most popular TV sizes, smaller TVs are still very important to a lot of people. These sizes are great for a secondary TV, like in a guest room or kitchen, or even for student dorms. Although you usually won't get the most advanced features or the best picture quality, there are still many decent TVs available in smaller sizes.

We've reviewed 27 TVs, and below you'll find our picks for the best small TVs available for purchase in 2019. See also our recommendations for the best 32 inch TVs.

Note: Since new TVs tend to launch at very high prices, it's unlikely that these newer models will become reasonable choices until the latter half of the year. Because of this, the 2018 models remain as picks in our recommendations.

1. Best 28 Inch TV: TCL 28S305

   

   TCL 28S305

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.3

   Test Benches:

   • 1.3: Spring 2019
   • 1.2: Winter 2018
   • 1.1: Summer 2017
   • 1.0: Winter 2015
   • 0.9: Winter 2014
   • 0.8: Winter 2013

   See changelog and how ratings work

   6.3

   Mixed Usage

   What it is: General purpose. The TV will be used for a variety of content and usages. Movies at night, TV shows during the day, video games from time to time, etc.

   Score components:

   • 22% TV Shows
   • 22% Sports
   • 16% Movies
   • 16% Video Games
   • 10% HDR Gaming
   • 9% HDR Movies
   • 5% PC Monitor

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   5.8

   Movies

   What it is: Movies in the dark. The TV will be used for watching movies in a controlled environment, directly in front, in a home theater way. Mostly only high quality content, like Blu-rays, UHD Blu-rays, streaming and a little bit of HDR.

   Score components:

   • 20% Contrast
   • 17% Local Dimming
   • 11% 1080p Input
   • 10% Black Uniformity
   • 8% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 4k Input
   • 6% 24p Judder
   • 5% Motion Interpolation
   • 5% Stutter
   • 3% SDR ABL
   • 3% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Post Calibration
   • 2% 480p Input

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   6.9

   TV Shows

   What it is: TV Shows in a bright living room. The TV will be used in to watch TV shows, in a bright room during the day, from multiple viewing positions at different angles. The content watched has an average quality: cable, streaming, SD channels, etc.

   Score components:

   • 29% Reflections
   • 16% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% 1080p Input
   • 7% 720p Input
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% 4k Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Smart Features
   • 3% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention
   • 1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.1

   Sports

   What it is: Sports in a living room. The TV will be used to watch sports during the day, like football or hockey. Usually watched with a group, so from multiple viewing position.

   Score components:

   • 25% Reflections
   • 20% Response Time
   • 14% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 720p Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.0

   Video Games

   What it is: Video games. The TV will be used to play video games, directly in front, in a controlled light environment. Usually fast games, like online FPS, where motion blur and input lag is important.

   Score components:

   • 33% Input Lag
   • 22% Response Time
   • 6% 1080p Input
   • 6% 4k Input
   • 4% Contrast
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 3% Reflections
   • 3% Gray Uniformity
   • 3% Sound Quality
   • 3% Local Dimming
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Stutter
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% 4k @ 60 Hz
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% 1440p @ 60 Hz

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   4.6

   HDR Movies

   What it is: HDR Movies and TV shows. The TV will be used to watch 4k UHD HDR content, with a wide color gamut and a high peak brightness. Either via UHD Blu-rays or HDR streaming.

   Score components:

   • 22% Contrast
   • 14% Local Dimming
   • 12% 4k Input
   • 11% Black Uniformity
   • 6% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 6% Color Gamut
   • 6% Color Volume
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 4% Stutter
   • 4% 24p Judder
   • 2% HDR ABL
   • 2% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   4.1

   HDR Gaming

   What it is: HDR Gaming. The TV will be used to play HDR video games using consoles that support it or on current generation gaming PCs. Xbox One S, PS4 Pro, GTX 10 series and AMD RX series graphics cards.

   Score components:

   • 25% 4k @ 60 Hz + HDR
   • 15% Response Time
   • 8% Contrast
   • 7% Color Gamut
   • 7% Color Volume
   • 5% Local Dimming
   • 4% 1080p Input
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 3% HDR ABL
   • 3% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Reflections
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% HDR10
   • 1% Sound Quality
   • <1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   6.6

   PC Monitor

   What it is: PC Monitor. The TV will be used as a PC monitor, from 2-3 feet away, either for productivity purposes or gaming. Sharp text is important, as well as a high resolution.

   Score components:

   • 27% Inputs
   • 14% Viewing Angle
   • 13% Response Time
   • 8% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 6% Reflections
   • 5% Temporary Image Retention
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Curved
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% 1080p Input
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Black Uniformity
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations
   Type : LED

   Sub-Type

   What it is: Type of display technology used by the TV.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses

   Good value: IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.

   : VA

   Resolution : 1080p (except 28", 32")

   The best small TV we've tested that is also available in 28" is the TCL S305 2018. Its small size makes it suitable for rooms where space is scarce, like a kitchen or a dorm room. This is a mediocre TV. It can't get very bright, so it's not a good choice if your room is bright. It can display deep blacks thanks to the high native contrast ratio, and this improves dark room performance, but the overall picture quality is just mediocre.

   This TV has a 720p resolution and is powered by the same excellent Roku TV smart platform found on higher-end TCL models. There is an abundance of apps and many streaming channels to choose from. You will most certainly find what you're looking for, and you can also stream files from your mobile device.

   Overall, this is a mediocre TV, but the best from the ones available in this size.

   See our review

2. Best 32 Inch TV: Samsung N5300

   

   Samsung N5300

   SEE PRICE

   B&H
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.3

   Test Benches:

   • 1.3: Spring 2019
   • 1.2: Winter 2018
   • 1.1: Summer 2017
   • 1.0: Winter 2015
   • 0.9: Winter 2014
   • 0.8: Winter 2013

   See changelog and how ratings work

   6.3

   Mixed Usage

   What it is: General purpose. The TV will be used for a variety of content and usages. Movies at night, TV shows during the day, video games from time to time, etc.

   Score components:

   • 22% TV Shows
   • 22% Sports
   • 16% Movies
   • 16% Video Games
   • 10% HDR Gaming
   • 9% HDR Movies
   • 5% PC Monitor

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   4.8

   Movies

   What it is: Movies in the dark. The TV will be used for watching movies in a controlled environment, directly in front, in a home theater way. Mostly only high quality content, like Blu-rays, UHD Blu-rays, streaming and a little bit of HDR.

   Score components:

   • 20% Contrast
   • 17% Local Dimming
   • 11% 1080p Input
   • 10% Black Uniformity
   • 8% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 4k Input
   • 6% 24p Judder
   • 5% Motion Interpolation
   • 5% Stutter
   • 3% SDR ABL
   • 3% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Post Calibration
   • 2% 480p Input

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.4

   TV Shows

   What it is: TV Shows in a bright living room. The TV will be used in to watch TV shows, in a bright room during the day, from multiple viewing positions at different angles. The content watched has an average quality: cable, streaming, SD channels, etc.

   Score components:

   • 29% Reflections
   • 16% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% 1080p Input
   • 7% 720p Input
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% 4k Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Smart Features
   • 3% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention
   • 1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.6

   Sports

   What it is: Sports in a living room. The TV will be used to watch sports during the day, like football or hockey. Usually watched with a group, so from multiple viewing position.

   Score components:

   • 25% Reflections
   • 20% Response Time
   • 14% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 720p Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   6.4

   Video Games

   What it is: Video games. The TV will be used to play video games, directly in front, in a controlled light environment. Usually fast games, like online FPS, where motion blur and input lag is important.

   Score components:

   • 33% Input Lag
   • 22% Response Time
   • 6% 1080p Input
   • 6% 4k Input
   • 4% Contrast
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 3% Reflections
   • 3% Gray Uniformity
   • 3% Sound Quality
   • 3% Local Dimming
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Stutter
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% 4k @ 60 Hz
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% 1440p @ 60 Hz

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   4.4

   HDR Movies

   What it is: HDR Movies and TV shows. The TV will be used to watch 4k UHD HDR content, with a wide color gamut and a high peak brightness. Either via UHD Blu-rays or HDR streaming.

   Score components:

   • 22% Contrast
   • 14% Local Dimming
   • 12% 4k Input
   • 11% Black Uniformity
   • 6% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 6% Color Gamut
   • 6% Color Volume
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 4% Stutter
   • 4% 24p Judder
   • 2% HDR ABL
   • 2% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   4.5

   HDR Gaming

   What it is: HDR Gaming. The TV will be used to play HDR video games using consoles that support it or on current generation gaming PCs. Xbox One S, PS4 Pro, GTX 10 series and AMD RX series graphics cards.

   Score components:

   • 25% 4k @ 60 Hz + HDR
   • 15% Response Time
   • 8% Contrast
   • 7% Color Gamut
   • 7% Color Volume
   • 5% Local Dimming
   • 4% 1080p Input
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 3% HDR ABL
   • 3% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Reflections
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% HDR10
   • 1% Sound Quality
   • <1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   6.9

   PC Monitor

   What it is: PC Monitor. The TV will be used as a PC monitor, from 2-3 feet away, either for productivity purposes or gaming. Sharp text is important, as well as a high resolution.

   Score components:

   • 27% Inputs
   • 14% Viewing Angle
   • 13% Response Time
   • 8% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 6% Reflections
   • 5% Temporary Image Retention
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Curved
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% 1080p Input
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Black Uniformity
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations
   Type : LED

   Sub-Type

   What it is: Type of display technology used by the TV.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses

   Good value: IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.

   : IPS

   Resolution : 1080p

   Sizes : 32" 43"

   If you want a small TV with wide viewing angles, check out the Samsung N5300. This is a basic 1080p TV with mediocre picture quality. It has decent viewing angles thanks to its IPS panel, but dark room performance is lacking. It has good gray uniformity and almost no dirty screen effect, which makes it a good TV for watching sports. It has a fast response time but no other motion-enhancing features.

   Its input lag is low but is still one of the highest we've measured so far. This doesn't make it a good choice for those who seek a responsive TV to use for gaming or as a PC monitor. It supports HDR content, but can't deliver a good HDR performance.

   Overall, it's a mediocre 32'' 1080p TV, more suitable for smaller rooms.

   See our review

3. Best 43 Inch TV: Vizio E43-F1

   

   Vizio E43-F1

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.3

   Test Benches:

   • 1.3: Spring 2019
   • 1.2: Winter 2018
   • 1.1: Summer 2017
   • 1.0: Winter 2015
   • 0.9: Winter 2014
   • 0.8: Winter 2013

   See changelog and how ratings work

   7.7

   Mixed Usage

   What it is: General purpose. The TV will be used for a variety of content and usages. Movies at night, TV shows during the day, video games from time to time, etc.

   Score components:

   • 22% TV Shows
   • 22% Sports
   • 16% Movies
   • 16% Video Games
   • 10% HDR Gaming
   • 9% HDR Movies
   • 5% PC Monitor

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.1

   Movies

   What it is: Movies in the dark. The TV will be used for watching movies in a controlled environment, directly in front, in a home theater way. Mostly only high quality content, like Blu-rays, UHD Blu-rays, streaming and a little bit of HDR.

   Score components:

   • 20% Contrast
   • 17% Local Dimming
   • 11% 1080p Input
   • 10% Black Uniformity
   • 8% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 4k Input
   • 6% 24p Judder
   • 5% Motion Interpolation
   • 5% Stutter
   • 3% SDR ABL
   • 3% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Post Calibration
   • 2% 480p Input

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.4

   TV Shows

   What it is: TV Shows in a bright living room. The TV will be used in to watch TV shows, in a bright room during the day, from multiple viewing positions at different angles. The content watched has an average quality: cable, streaming, SD channels, etc.

   Score components:

   • 29% Reflections
   • 16% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% 1080p Input
   • 7% 720p Input
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% 4k Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Smart Features
   • 3% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention
   • 1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.6

   Sports

   What it is: Sports in a living room. The TV will be used to watch sports during the day, like football or hockey. Usually watched with a group, so from multiple viewing position.

   Score components:

   • 25% Reflections
   • 20% Response Time
   • 14% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 720p Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   8.5

   Video Games

   What it is: Video games. The TV will be used to play video games, directly in front, in a controlled light environment. Usually fast games, like online FPS, where motion blur and input lag is important.

   Score components:

   • 33% Input Lag
   • 22% Response Time
   • 6% 1080p Input
   • 6% 4k Input
   • 4% Contrast
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 3% Reflections
   • 3% Gray Uniformity
   • 3% Sound Quality
   • 3% Local Dimming
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Stutter
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% 4k @ 60 Hz
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% 1440p @ 60 Hz

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   7.3

   HDR Movies

   What it is: HDR Movies and TV shows. The TV will be used to watch 4k UHD HDR content, with a wide color gamut and a high peak brightness. Either via UHD Blu-rays or HDR streaming.

   Score components:

   • 22% Contrast
   • 14% Local Dimming
   • 12% 4k Input
   • 11% Black Uniformity
   • 6% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 6% Color Gamut
   • 6% Color Volume
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 4% Stutter
   • 4% 24p Judder
   • 2% HDR ABL
   • 2% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   8.1

   HDR Gaming

   What it is: HDR Gaming. The TV will be used to play HDR video games using consoles that support it or on current generation gaming PCs. Xbox One S, PS4 Pro, GTX 10 series and AMD RX series graphics cards.

   Score components:

   • 25% 4k @ 60 Hz + HDR
   • 15% Response Time
   • 8% Contrast
   • 7% Color Gamut
   • 7% Color Volume
   • 5% Local Dimming
   • 4% 1080p Input
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 3% HDR ABL
   • 3% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Reflections
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% HDR10
   • 1% Sound Quality
   • <1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations

   8.2

   PC Monitor

   What it is: PC Monitor. The TV will be used as a PC monitor, from 2-3 feet away, either for productivity purposes or gaming. Sharp text is important, as well as a high resolution.

   Score components:

   • 27% Inputs
   • 14% Viewing Angle
   • 13% Response Time
   • 8% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 6% Reflections
   • 5% Temporary Image Retention
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Curved
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% 1080p Input
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Black Uniformity
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

   See our best recommendations
   Type : LED

   Sub-Type

   What it is: Type of display technology used by the TV.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses

   Good value: IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.

   : VA

   Resolution : 4k

   If you want a little larger TV, then the best small TV in the 43" size is the Vizio E Series 2018. This TV has a decent picture quality and delivers excellent dark room performance with deep uniform blacks, thanks to its excellent native contrast ratio, outstanding black uniformity, and local dimming support. It has good SDR brightness and is suitable for most not too bright rooms, and can handle reflections well. Motion handling is decent with great response time and a handy black frame insertion feature. Gamers will appreciate the excellent low input lag in almost any mode.

   Unfortunately, like with most VA panel TVs, the image deteriorates when viewed from the side, it can't deliver the best HDR experience as it can't produce bright highlights in some scenes, and it can't display a wide color gamut.

   Overall, this is a good TV that should please most people.

   See our review

4. Alternative With Wider Viewing Angles: LG 43UM7300

   

   LG 43UM7300

   SEE PRICE

   B&H

   Type : LED

   Sub-Type

   What it is: Type of display technology used by the TV.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses

   Good value: IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.

   : IPS

   Resolution : 4k

   If you find the viewing angles of the Vizio E Series 2018 inadequate for your wide room, then get the LG UM7300. You won't get the same dark room performance, as this TV has worse contrast ratio and lacks local dimming support. On the upside, the image remains accurate at an angle, the TV has a motion interpolation feature for the soap opera effect fans, and it can handle reflections better. Overall, this is a good TV that is just as good or better than the Vizio if you don't care about dark room performance.

   See our review

5. Best Small Smart TV: TCL 43S517

   

   TCL 43S517

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.3

   Test Benches:

   • 1.3: Spring 2019
   • 1.2: Winter 2018
   • 1.1: Summer 2017
   • 1.0: Winter 2015
   • 0.9: Winter 2014
   • 0.8: Winter 2013

   See changelog and how ratings work

   7.5

   Mixed Usage

   What it is: General purpose. The TV will be used for a variety of content and usages. Movies at night, TV shows during the day, video games from time to time, etc.

   Score components:

   • 22% TV Shows
   • 22% Sports
   • 16% Movies
   • 16% Video Games
   • 10% HDR Gaming
   • 9% HDR Movies
   • 5% PC Monitor

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   7.1

   Movies

   What it is: Movies in the dark. The TV will be used for watching movies in a controlled environment, directly in front, in a home theater way. Mostly only high quality content, like Blu-rays, UHD Blu-rays, streaming and a little bit of HDR.

   Score components:

   • 20% Contrast
   • 17% Local Dimming
   • 11% 1080p Input
   • 10% Black Uniformity
   • 8% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 4k Input
   • 6% 24p Judder
   • 5% Motion Interpolation
   • 5% Stutter
   • 3% SDR ABL
   • 3% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Post Calibration
   • 2% 480p Input

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   7.5

   TV Shows

   What it is: TV Shows in a bright living room. The TV will be used in to watch TV shows, in a bright room during the day, from multiple viewing positions at different angles. The content watched has an average quality: cable, streaming, SD channels, etc.

   Score components:

   • 29% Reflections
   • 16% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% 1080p Input
   • 7% 720p Input
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% 4k Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Smart Features
   • 3% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention
   • 1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   7.1

   Sports

   What it is: Sports in a living room. The TV will be used to watch sports during the day, like football or hockey. Usually watched with a group, so from multiple viewing position.

   Score components:

   • 25% Reflections
   • 20% Response Time
   • 14% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 11% Viewing Angle
   • 9% Gray Uniformity
   • 8% 720p Input
   • 5% Sound Quality
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Temporary Image Retention

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   8.1

   Video Games

   What it is: Video games. The TV will be used to play video games, directly in front, in a controlled light environment. Usually fast games, like online FPS, where motion blur and input lag is important.

   Score components:

   • 33% Input Lag
   • 22% Response Time
   • 6% 1080p Input
   • 6% 4k Input
   • 4% Contrast
   • 4% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 3% Reflections
   • 3% Gray Uniformity
   • 3% Sound Quality
   • 3% Local Dimming
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 1% Flicker-Free
   • 1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Stutter
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% 4k @ 60 Hz
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% 1440p @ 60 Hz

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   7.1

   HDR Movies

   What it is: HDR Movies and TV shows. The TV will be used to watch 4k UHD HDR content, with a wide color gamut and a high peak brightness. Either via UHD Blu-rays or HDR streaming.

   Score components:

   • 22% Contrast
   • 14% Local Dimming
   • 12% 4k Input
   • 11% Black Uniformity
   • 6% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 6% Color Gamut
   • 6% Color Volume
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 4% Stutter
   • 4% 24p Judder
   • 2% HDR ABL
   • 2% Motion Interpolation
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   7.8

   HDR Gaming

   What it is: HDR Gaming. The TV will be used to play HDR video games using consoles that support it or on current generation gaming PCs. Xbox One S, PS4 Pro, GTX 10 series and AMD RX series graphics cards.

   Score components:

   • 25% 4k @ 60 Hz + HDR
   • 15% Response Time
   • 8% Contrast
   • 7% Color Gamut
   • 7% Color Volume
   • 5% Local Dimming
   • 4% 1080p Input
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 3% HDR ABL
   • 3% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Gradient
   • 1% Reflections
   • 1% Variable Refresh Rate
   • 1% HDR10
   • 1% Sound Quality
   • <1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Temporary Image Retention
   • <1% Post Calibration
   • <1% HDR10+
   • <1% Dolby Vision

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

   Become an Insider to see distribution charts

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   7.9

   PC Monitor

   What it is: PC Monitor. The TV will be used as a PC monitor, from 2-3 feet away, either for productivity purposes or gaming. Sharp text is important, as well as a high resolution.

   Score components:

   • 27% Inputs
   • 14% Viewing Angle
   • 13% Response Time
   • 8% Permanent Burn-In Risk
   • 6% Reflections
   • 5% Temporary Image Retention
   • 4% 4k Input
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 3% 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
   • 2% Curved
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% 1080p Input
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Black Uniformity
   • <1% Flicker-Free
   • <1% Pre Calibration
   • <1% Post Calibration

   Score distribution:

   - SAMPLE -

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   Type : LED

   Sub-Type

   What it is: Type of display technology used by the TV.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses

   Good value: IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.

   : VA

   Resolution : 4k

   If you want a small TV with great smart features, the best small smart TV is the TCL S517 2018. It's a decent LED UHD TV with a wide color gamut, great dark room performance, and low input lag for gaming or for use as a PC monitor.

   This TV has great smart features. There are hundreds of streaming channels (apps) available, so you won't need to worry about having an external streaming box like an Apple TV connected to the TV. It can also stream files directly from your mobile device, similar to a Chromecast.

   Unfortunately, it doesn't have a local dimming feature, and the smaller models don't support motion interpolation. Like the Vizio E Series 2018 E43-F1, it isn't very bright and the image degrades when viewed at an angle. Overall, it's a decent 4k TV that should please most people.

   See our review

6. Cheaper Alternative: TCL 4 Series/S425 2019

   

   TCL 4 Series/S425 2019

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com

   Type : LED

   Sub-Type

   What it is: Type of display technology used by the TV.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses

   Good value: IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.

   : VA

   Resolution : 4k

   Sizes : 43" 49" 50" 55" 65" 75"

   If you are looking for a cheaper alternative that still incorporates the smart features found on the TCL S517, then get the TCL S425. This is the replacement of the S405 and it's very similar. This is a simpler version of the S517 but has all the same great smart features. Unfortunately, it can't get as bright, but it has good dark room performance. The low input lag makes the TV very responsive, and the response time is fast so fast content is not too blurry. This is a decent, cheap 4k TV that's best as a secondary TV or as a PC monitor.

   See our review