Your Guide to the Best 4K TVs for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024
The world of 4K TVs is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and features emerging every year. As a tech enthusiast, finding the perfect 4K TV can be a daunting task, but fear not – we're here to guide you through the maze of options. In this article, we'll share tips and insights to help you navigate the market and find a TV that matches your needs and budget.
Consider Your Primary Use Case Before diving into the sea of choices, it's essential to understand your primary use case. Will you be using the TV primarily for gaming, movie nights, or sports viewing? Different TVs excel in different areas, so identifying your main usage pattern will help you narrow down your options. For instance, if you're a hardcore gamer, you'll want to prioritize features like low input lag and variable refresh rate (VRR) support.
Understand the Technology The world of 4K TVs is divided into three main categories: OLED, QLED, and LCD LED. Each technology has its strengths and weaknesses, so it's crucial to understand the differences. OLED TVs are known for their deep blacks and superior contrast, while QLED TVs offer exceptional brightness and vibrant colors. LCD LED TVs, on the other hand, strike a balance between affordability and performance.
Don't Overspend One of the most common mistakes tech enthusiasts make is overspending on features they may never use. Remember, you don't need to break the bank to enjoy a fantastic 4K experience. There are excellent options available at various price points, so focus on the features that truly matter to you and avoid getting caught up in the hype surrounding unnecessary bells and whistles.
LG OLED G2 Series: Premium Home Cinema Experience
LG 55-Inch Class OLED evo Gallery Edition G2 Series Alexa Built-in 4K Sm... -- 1696.99(Amazon)
OLED Evo G2 Series 77” Alexa Built-in 4k Smart TV (3840 x 2160), 120Hz R... -- 2976.95(Amazon)
LG - 97" Class G2 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart webOS TV with Gallery Des... -- 19999.99(Best Buy)
LG C2 Series 77-Inch 4K Smart OLED Evo TV -- 1649(GameLiquidations)
55-Inch Class OLED evo Gallery Edition G2 Series Alexa Built-in 4K Smart... -- 1696.99(Amazon)
55" 2160p 120hz 4k Oled55g2pua.aus Lg Electronics Oled55g2pua.aus Lg Ele... -- 767.38(IT Devices Online)
Why We Picked It
The LG OLED G2 Series stands out for its exceptional picture quality, featuring perfect blacks and vibrant colors, thanks to its OLED technology. Equipped with the α9 Gen 5 AI Processor 4K, it delivers smooth performance and enhanced picture and sound quality, making it a top choice for tech enthusiasts and home cinema lovers. Its range of sizes and the inclusion of advanced features like Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Atmos, and gaming optimizations further solidify its position as a premium viewing experience.
Who It's For
This TV series is ideal for those who prioritize picture quality and are looking for a high-end home theater experience. It's perfect for cinephiles, gamers, and tech enthusiasts who want the latest technology and features. However, it might not be the best fit for users who tend to display static images for extended periods due to the OLED technology's susceptibility to burn-in.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional picture quality with perfect blacks and vibrant colors | ❌ OLED technology may be susceptible to burn-in with static images |
| ✅ Equipped with the latest α9 Gen 5 AI Processor 4K for smooth performance | ❌ High price point, especially for larger models |
| ✅ Supports advanced features like Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Atmos, and gaming optimizations | ❌ Brightness may be lower compared to some non-OLED screens |
Samsung QN900B Neo QLED 8K: Best High-End 8K TV Experience
SAMSUNG 65-inch Class QN900B Series Neo QLED 8K Smart TV with Alexa Buil... -- 1997(TV & Appliance Center)
75-in QN900B Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2022) - QN75QN900BFXZA -- 3158.19(Amazon)
SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Samsung Neo QLED 8K QN900B Series Mini LED Quantum... -- 2127.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Samsung QN900B Neo QLED 8K is a cutting-edge television that offers an unparalleled viewing experience with its advanced display technology and smart features. Its Quantum Matrix Technology Pro with Mini LEDs provides exceptional brightness and contrast, while the Neural Quantum Processor 8K ensures immersive picture quality with smart upscaling. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Pro delivers an audio experience that matches the visual spectacle.
Who It's For
This TV is ideal for tech enthusiasts and early adopters who demand the highest resolution available and appreciate the latest advancements in television technology. It's also suitable for those who want a future-proofed home entertainment system that's ready for 8K content as it becomes more widely available.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 8K resolution with AI upscaling | ❌ Limited availability of native 8K content |
| ✅ Quantum Matrix Technology Pro for superior brightness and contrast | ❌ Premium price point may not be justifiable for all consumers |
| ✅ Built-in Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Pro for immersive audio | ❌ Requires compatible devices and content for full 8K experience |
Sony A95K QD-OLED: Best High-End QD-OLED TV
Sony - 65" Class BRAVIA XR A95K 4K HDR OLED Google TV -- 1999(The HDTV Spot)
Sony BRAVIA XR A95K Master Series XR 55A95K - 55" OLED Smart TV - 4K Ult... -- 2197(TV & Appliance Center)
QD-OLED 65 inch BRAVIA XR A95L Series 4K Ultra HD TV: Smart Google TV wi... -- 3298(Amazon)
Sony QD-OLED 65 inch BRAVIA XR A95L Series 4K Ultra HD TV: Smart Google ... -- 3299.99(Best Buy)
Why We Picked It
The Sony A95K QD-OLED TV is a cutting-edge fusion of OLED and Quantum Dot technologies, offering an unparalleled viewing experience with exceptional color accuracy, vibrancy, and brightness. Its Cognitive Processor XR ensures a picture that closely mimics real-world colors and contrasts, making it a top choice for those who seek the best visual fidelity in their home entertainment.
Who It's For
The Sony A95K is ideal for discerning viewers who demand the highest quality in color and image detail, such as cinephiles, professional creatives, and gamers looking for the most immersive experience. Its premium features cater to those who want a smart TV that enhances both their viewing and gaming sessions, with specific optimizations for PlayStation 5.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lifelike picture with Cognitive Processor XR | ❌ Premium price point |
| ✅ Pure black and vibrant colors with QD-OLED and XR Triluminos Max | ❌ Limited availability as a newer technology |
| ✅ Exclusive gaming features for PlayStation 5 and HDMI 2.1 support | ❌ Potential for burn-in with static images, as with all OLED displays |
TCL 6-Series R655 (2024): Best Value 4K Mini-LED Smart TV
TCL 65" Class 6-Series 4K Mini-LED UHD QLED Dolby Vision HDR Smart Roku ... -- 949.99(InVastor.com)
Universal Replacement Remote Control Compatible for TCL 4K UHD LED Smart... -- 12.95(Amazon)
TCL 65R635 65 inch 6-Series 4K QLED Dolby Vision HDR Smart Roku TV -- 1899.99(Walmart - Wholesale Connection)
RC902N FMR1 Voice Remote Replacement Supports for TCL TV 5 Series S546 S... -- 14.97(Amazon)
TCL 65" 6 Series 8K UHD QLED TV -- 2599.99(Stream Supply Co)
Why We Picked It
The TCL 6-Series R655 (2024) is a top contender in the mid-range TV market, offering a balance of price and performance. It features Mini-LED technology, which provides superior contrast and brightness compared to traditional LED TVs. The integration of Roku's platform delivers a user-friendly and comprehensive streaming experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize picture quality and smart features without breaking the bank.
Who It's For
This TV is ideal for movie enthusiasts and casual viewers who want a high-quality viewing experience at a reasonable price. It's also perfect for those who prefer the convenience of a built-in streaming platform with a wide range of apps and services. However, audiophiles or those seeking a cinematic sound experience may need to invest in an external sound system to complement the TV's visuals.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Mini-LED technology for enhanced contrast | ❌ Sound quality may not be on par with picture quality |
| ✅ Roku integration for seamless streaming | ❌ May require additional investment in sound equipment |
| ✅ Competitive pricing for a 4K UHD QLED TV | ❌ Some users might prefer a different smart TV platform |
Vizio P-Series Quantum X: Top Choice for Brightness and Color
PX65-G1 P-Series Quantum X 65” Class (64.50" Diag.) 4K HDR Smart TV -- 1973.99(Amazon)
75-inch Quantum Pro 4K QLED 120Hz Smart TV with 1,000 nits Brightness, D... -- 898(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Vizio P-Series Quantum X stands out in the crowded market of 4K HDR Smart TVs due to its exceptional brightness, quantum color technology, and full-array local dimming. These features combine to deliver a viewing experience with deep blacks, high contrast ratios, and a color spectrum that's significantly broader than standard 4K TVs. Its capability to produce up to 600 nits of brightness and support for Dolby Vision HDR enhances the detail and color accuracy, making it a top choice for tech enthusiasts and cinephiles alike.
Who It's For
This TV is ideal for those who prioritize picture quality and are looking for an immersive viewing experience, whether they're watching movies, streaming high-quality content, or gaming. It's also a great fit for users who appreciate having smart features like Apple AirPlay, Chromecast, and voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant. However, users who heavily rely on a wide variety of built-in streaming services might find the SmartCast platform limiting and may benefit from an external streaming device.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Quantum color technology delivers up to 165% more color than standard 4K TVs | ❌ SmartCast platform may not offer as many apps as competitors |
| ✅ Ultra-bright 3000 with up to 600 nits of brightness for detailed highlights | ❌ Some users might prefer using an external streaming device for more robust app support |
| ✅ 384 local dimming zones for deep blacks and high contrast | ❌ Price point may be higher compared to some competitors |
Hisense U9DG Dual-Cell: Cutting-Edge Contrast Innovator
Hisense 75 Inch 4K ULED Dual-Cell HDR -- 328.99(vailmal)
Why We Picked It
The Hisense U9DG Dual-Cell is a standout product due to its innovative dual-cell technology, which offers a significant boost in contrast and precision by layering two LCD panels. This technology is a game-changer for those who prioritize picture quality and are eager to experience the latest advancements in display technology.
Who It's For
The Hisense U9DG is ideal for tech enthusiasts and home cinema aficionados who are looking for superior contrast and depth in their viewing experience. It's also a great fit for those who appreciate the finer details in picture quality and are willing to invest in newer, less common technologies.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dual-cell technology for enhanced contrast | ❌ Dual-cell tech is less common, which may impact support |
| ✅ Large 75-inch 4K ULED display | ❌ Content may not be optimized for dual-cell displays |
| ✅ Competitive price point for advanced tech | ❌ Potential risk in long-term technology adoption |
Philips OLED+936: Immersive Viewing Experience with Ambilight
PHILIPS 32-Inch FHD 1080p Smart R0KU TV Compatible with Alexa, AppIe Hom... -- 149.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Philips OLED+936 distinguishes itself with its innovative Ambilight technology, which extends the viewing experience beyond the screen by projecting on-screen colors onto the wall behind the TV. This feature, combined with the OLED display's exceptional contrast and color accuracy, offers a uniquely immersive viewing experience. Despite concerns about its interface and app ecosystem, the Philips OLED+936's visual performance and unique features make it a compelling choice for those seeking an enhanced home cinema experience.
Who It's For
This TV is ideal for movie enthusiasts and gamers who prioritize immersive visual experiences and are looking for a TV that goes beyond traditional viewing. It's also a great fit for those who appreciate aesthetic design and want their TV to contribute to the ambiance of their room. However, it might not be the best choice for users who heavily rely on a wide variety of apps directly from their TV or prefer a more straightforward, user-friendly interface.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ambilight technology for an immersive viewing experience | ❌ Interface and app selection may lag behind competitors |
| ✅ Exceptional contrast and color accuracy with OLED display | ❌ May require additional devices for the best app ecosystem experience |
| ✅ Compatible with major smart home systems like Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home | ❌ Premium features at a potentially higher price point |
LG QNED99 MiniLED 8K: Best High-End 8K MiniLED TV
LG 99 65QNED99UPA 64.5" Smart LED-LCD TV - 8K UHD -- 915.89(IT Devices Online)
LG 86QNED99TUA 86" QNED99 QNED 8K MiniLED TV -- 5299.99(PC Richard & Son)
Why We Picked It
The LG QNED99 MiniLED 8K TV is a cutting-edge television that offers viewers an exceptional visual experience. With its MiniLED backlighting technology, it provides superior contrast and brightness levels, ensuring that the picture quality is vivid and dynamic. The 8K resolution delivers an unprecedented level of detail, making the viewing experience incredibly immersive. This TV is designed for those who want the latest advancements in display technology and are looking for a future-proof investment.
Who It's For
The LG QNED99 is best suited for tech enthusiasts and home cinema aficionados who demand the highest resolution available and appreciate the finer details in picture quality. It's also ideal for early adopters who want to be ready for 8K content as it becomes more available. However, it may not be the best fit for consumers who are content with current 4K TVs or those who have a limited budget for home entertainment.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ MiniLED backlighting for superior contrast and brightness | ❌ 8K content is still limited |
| ✅ 8K resolution for ultra-sharp, detailed images | ❌ High price point compared to 4K TVs |
| ✅ Future-proof technology for upcoming 8K content | ❌ Minimal benefits over 4K for viewers with smaller screens or sitting further away |
Samsung The Frame (2024): Best Fusion of Art and Technology in a TV
Samsung qn85ls03dafxza 85” The Frame 4K Smart Quantum HDR TV (2024) -- 4297.99(NFM)
43-Inch Class QLED 4K LS03D The Frame Series Quantum HDR Smart TV w/ Dol... -- 997.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Samsung The Frame (2024) is a masterpiece of technology that blends the world of entertainment with the elegance of fine art. It's designed for those who value aesthetics as much as functionality, offering a stunning 4K QLED display that transforms into a beautiful art piece when not in use. With features like Art Mode, a customizable frame, and Pantone validated colors, it's a TV that enhances your living space and your viewing experience.
Who It's For
The Frame is ideal for design-conscious individuals who want their TV to complement their home's decor and for art lovers who enjoy displaying digital art. It's also a great choice for tech enthusiasts looking for a smart TV with the latest features like Tizen OS, Quantum Processor 4K, and built-in Dolby Atmos. However, it may not be the best fit for those prioritizing the highest possible picture performance in brightly lit environments.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Art Mode transforms the TV into a digital art display | ❌ May have lower peak brightness compared to other models |
| ✅ Customizable magnetic frame to match your style | ❌ Potential compromises in viewing angles |
| ✅ Quantum Processor 4K for vivid picture quality and smart features | ❌ Price point is premium for the design-focused features |
Excited to help you find the perfect 4K TV! Have more questions or need further assistance? Feel free to reach out anytime. Happy shopping!