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The best smart TVs (and what makes them so smart)
A smart TV can be an invaluable addition to your smart home. If you're looking for ways to watch shows, news, and sports without a cable or satellite provider, you've come to the right place. We rounded up the best smart TVs, which use the Internet to access content for far greater capabilities that an average television.
Also: The best movies and shows to stream right now
ZDNET Recommends
But before you invest, you need to research the best smart TVs -- and that's where we can help. We scoured the market and compared prices and features to find the very best smart TVs for your home or office, whether you want to watch movies, sports events, or your favorite YouTube videos.
Our top picks come from brands like TCL, Hisense, LG, Samsung, and Sony. Check out the best smart TVs according to ZDNET experts below.
Also:
- The best OLED TVs (and why they're so expensive)
- Is a 55-inch TV big enough for your room, and which is the best?
- What are the best 65-inch TVs? Plus, OLED and QLED explained
- The best 85-inch TVs
- Excellent display
- Vivid colors
- Fantastic resolution
- Needs some adjustments
- Performs best with higher-quality content
Tech Specs: Size options: 55, 65, and 75 inches | Refresh rate: 120 Hz | Resolution: 4K
The TCL 6-Series Roku TV is not only the best smart TV overall but also the most affordable on our list. It comes with built-in access to Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Skype, Spotify, and YouTube.
Voice control keeps things simple, and the TV has an excellent design with top technology. The mini-QLED display offers a fantastic 4K HDR picture, and connectivity is great for WiFi, USB, and HDMI connections. It comes in a trio of sizes, so the price varies.
- Crystal-clear display
- Anti-glare
- Excellent contrast
- Not ideal for side viewing
- Bugs reported
Tech Specs: Size options: 55, 65, and 75 inches | Display: QLED | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 120 Hz
The Hisense U8H not only includes browser access but also YouTube, Google, and Alexa, all built-in and ready to go. Multiple connectivity options are available with Bluetooth, WiFi, and HDMI connections to keep you plugged in without trouble. Available in three different sizes, the 4K QLED display means a bright, vivid picture with better contrast. Choose from Game Mode Pro or FilmMaker Mode -- either way, the U8H shines as a budget smart TV.
- Excellent response time
- Vibrant colors
- Perfect for side viewing
- Pricey
- Limited brightness
Tech Specs: Size options: 55, 65, 77, and 93 inches | Display: OLED | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 120 Hz
The LG OLED C1 Series 4K Smart TV comes in a series of larger sizes, starting at 55 inches as the smallest, with a 4K OLED display and 120 Hz refresh rate. Swap to Filmmaker Mode to keep things interesting, or stick to the basics. Either way, there are HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision technologies for premium viewing. Once you connect to the Internet, enjoy access to streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Hulu, and YouTube.
- Different color frames
- Several sizes available
- Sleek, unobtrusive design
- Setup can be confusing
- Restricted apps
Tech Specs: Size options: 32, 43, 50, 55, 65, 75, and 85 inches | Display: QLED | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 120 Hz
For a more modern approach, check out the Samsung Frame. It's available in many sizes from small to large, with a 4K QLED display and Quantum Dot technology. The matte display is anti-reflective, so you can place it anywhere without glare. Netflix is built-in for easy access, as well as Google Assistant and Alexa. Be sure to check out Art Mode, which uses beautiful artwork to serve as a backdrop in your space.
Also: What are the best Samsung TVs, and is OLED or QLED better?
- Superior picture
- OLED technology
- Deep blacks
- Expensive
- Average brightness
Tech Specs: Size options: 55, 65, and 83 inches | Display: OLED | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 120 Hz
When you have a little more to spend, the Sony A90J is our favorite smart TV splurge. It uses an exclusive cognitive processor XR to significantly improve contrast, as well as special technologies that enhance picture and color. That means you receive a display unlike any other, offering a brilliant picture that really brings your images to life. Built-in, you will find all your favorite streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+, YouTube, and Apple TV.
What is the best smart TV?
When it comes to the best smart TV, the cheapest smart TV is also the best. The TCL 6-Series Roku TV has every popular streaming service if you want to start streaming right away, and the mini-QLED display promises fantastic viewing at an excellent value.
To see how it stacks up, here is an overview of the best smart TVs.
Best smart TV | Cost | Size options | Display |
TCL 6-Series Roku TV | $869 | 55, 65, 75 inches | mini-QLED |
Hisense U8H | $698 | 55, 65, 75 inches | QLED |
LG OLED C1 Series 4K Smart TV | $1497 | 55, 65, 77, 93 inches | OLED |
Samsung Frame | $1198 | 32, 43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 85 inches | QLED |
Sony A90J | $1998 | 55, 65, 83 inches | OLED |
Which is the right smart TV for you?
To help you find the best smart TV for your needs, these are our expert suggestions.
Choose this best smart TV... | If you want... |
TCL 6-Series Roku TV | The latest technology at a great price |
Hisense U8H | The best budget option |
LG OLED C1 Series 4K Smart TV | To connect to your PlayStation or Xbox |
Samsung Frame | A smart TV that displays art when not in use |
Sony A90J | The most high-end smart TV |
How did we choose these best smart TVs?
We consider multiple factors when forming our list for the best smart TVs.
- Quality: We consider image quality, as well as factors like resolution, refresh rate, and sound to ensure an overall stellar performance.
- Features: Some smart TVs have Bluetooth connectivity and voice assistants incorporated into their design. You may even connect one to your smart home hub.
- Cost: Budget is always at the forefront, so we choose the best smart TVs that accommodate a variety of budgets.
What is a smart TV?
A smart TV is one that includes web-based features and built-in streaming services, like Netflix and Amazon. It has the ability to connect to the Internet without the need for any additional equipment.
Do all smart TVs include Alexa and Google?
It depends on the model. While some TVs include Alexa, you can also buy an Amazon Fire TV that has Alexa already built-in and ready to go. Some TVs may incorporate multiple types of smart technology, including both Google and Alexa.
How much do smart TVs cost?
Smart TVs can range in cost significantly, depending on factors like size and technology. The best smart TVs range in price from about $650 to more than $1,700, depending on the option you choose.
Are there alternative smart TVs worth considering?
In our search for the best smart TVs, we also found these great options that almost made our list.
If you are looking for a specific size, check out our picks for the best 50-inch TVs, best 65-inch TVs, and best 85-inch TVs.