The 6 Best TVs - March 2018
Reviews

With 2019 in full swing, now is a great time to take a look at the best TVs currently on the market. The beginning of the year brings some amazing deals with it, as manufacturers try and clear out excess inventory to try and make room for the coming 2019 models. If you want to buy a new TV, now is a great time to start looking, as most 2018 models will be at their lowest price until the 2019 models hit the market.

We've tested 80 TVs, and below are our picks for the best TVs on the market in March 2019. See also our picks for the best 4k TVs and the best smart TVs.

Note: Prices and availability fluctuate after the beginning of a year as different models become available.

1. Best TV: LG B8

   

   LG B8

   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

   8.8

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   9.3

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.5

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.7

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   9.0

   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 @ 60Hz

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   9.0

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.8

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.4

   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 @ 60Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60Hz @ 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:

   See our best recommendations
   Type : OLED
   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.

   : WRGB
   Resolution : 4k
   Sizes : 55" 65"

   If you want the absolute best TV on the market, check out the LG B8. The B8 is an outstanding 4K OLED TV that delivers exceptional picture quality and has perfect dark room performance. It also performs well in bright rooms, although it can't overcome really bright glare if you have a lot of windows, and it has great wide viewing angles.

   The LG also has excellent low input lag and nearly instantaneous response time, so motion looks crystal clear without even a hint of blur. This near-perfection can bother some people, though, especially when watching 24p movies on Blu-ray. If it does bother you, it has some features that can help improve this, including a black frame insertion feature, or by enabling motion interpolation.

   Unfortunately, this TV has the risk of temporary image retention and permanent burn-in when exposed to static images for extended periods of time. With varied enough usage, we don't expect this to be an issue for most people. Overall, it is an outstanding TV that should please most people. The other LG OLEDs, including the C8 and E8, are just as good.

   See our review

2. Hard-To-Find Alternative: Vizio P Series Quantum

   

   Vizio P Series Quantum

   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 : 65"

   If you would prefer a TV that doesn't have any risk of burn-in or temporary image retention, the Vizio P Series Quantum is the best LED LCD TV that we've reviewed so far. It delivers great picture quality, and it has excellent motion handling. It has an impressive fast response time, almost as fast as the LG OLEDs, and it has impressive low input lag.

   This is one of the most versatile TVs we've ever reviewed. It has outstanding dark room performance, thanks to the impressive native contrast ratio and excellent local dimming. At the same time, it performs extremely well in a bright room, thanks to the great reflection handling and extremely high peak brightness in both SDR and HDR. Unfortunately, the Vizio P Series Quantum doesn't have the most advanced smart features, and there is no way to add apps. It also doesn't have the wide viewing angles of the OLEDs, and is currently only available in one size. It can also be very difficult to find. Overall, though, it is a great TV that should please most people.

   See our review

3. Best Mid-Range TV: Sony X900F

   

   Sony X900F

   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

   8.4

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.5

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.2

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.1

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.6

   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 @ 60Hz

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   8.4

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.5

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.3

   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 @ 60Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60Hz @ 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:

   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
   Sizes : 49" 55" 65" 75" 85"

   The Sony X900F is the best-rated TV on the market in the mid-range category. The X900F is a great 4k LED LCD TV with very good picture quality, excellent motion handling, and low input lag for gaming. It has great smart features, with an easy-to-use interface and an excellent selection of smart apps through the included Google Play Store.

   The Sony looks great in a dark room, thanks to the excellent native contrast ratio, but the local dimming feature isn't as advanced as the one on the Vizio P Series Quantum. It is also extremely bright and can easily overcome most glare, but it isn't quite as bright as the Quantum.

   Unfortunately, it doesn't support any of the newer gaming features, like VRR, and the image degrades rapidly when viewed at an angle. Overall, it is one of the best televisions we've tested and is a great mid-range TV that should please most people.

   See our review

4. Better Alternative For Gaming: Samsung NU8000

   

   Samsung NU8000

   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 : 49" 55" 65" 75" 82"

   If you like the Sony X900F but would prefer a TV with better gaming performance, check out the Samsung NU8000 instead. This versatile 4k TV delivers great gaming performance, thanks to the excellent low input lag and support for AMD's FreeSync variable refresh rate technology. This ensures a smooth, tear-free gaming experience, which is great for Xbox One gamers.

   Unfortunately, the NU8000 doesn't look as good in a dark room, as it has a limited edge-lit local dimming feature. Overall, though, it is an excellent 4k gaming TV that should please most people.

   See our review

5. Best Budget TV: TCL R617

   

   TCL R617

   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

   8.0

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.0

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   7.7

   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:

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.6

   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 @ 60Hz

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   8.1

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.4

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.3

   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 @ 60Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60Hz @ 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:

   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
   Sizes : 55" 65" 75"

   The TCL 6-Series (R613/R615/R617) is the best budget TV that we've tested so far. It delivers very good overall picture quality, with an excellent native contrast ratio and outstanding peak brightness, brighter even than the Sony X900F. The R617 has only mediocre gray uniformity, though, which may be distracting to sports fans.

   The TCL 6 Series has good overall motion handling, with a fast response time, so there is only a short blur trail behind fast moving objects, but it doesn't support any variable refresh rate technologies, unlike the Samsung NU8000.

   Unfortunately, the R617 has a less effective local dimming feature than the X900F, which can be distracting in some cases. Overall, though, it is a very good 4k TV that should please most viewers.

   See our review

6. Best TV For The Money: TCL S405

   

   TCL S405

   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

   7.3

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   6.5

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   7.2

   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:

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.3

   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 @ 60Hz

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   6.7

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   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:

   See our best recommendations

   8.0

   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 @ 60Hz @ 4:4:4
   • 3% 4k @ 60Hz @ 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:

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

   If you want the best TV for the money that's available, check out the TCL S Series. Depending on where you are, it might be known as the S425/423/421, or the S405. There are only minor cosmetic differences between the models.

   The TCL S Series is a decent 4k TV with great smart features, very low input lag, and great dark room performance. It has low motion blur, so fast moving objects in games and movies look clear, with little motion blur.

   Although it supports HDR, it isn't able to take full advantage of it due to the limited peak brightness and the lack of a wide color gamut. Overall, it is a decent 4k TV at a great price that should please most people. However, if you're looking for more budget-friendly options, check our recommendations for the best cheap TVs.

   See our review