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Best smart TVs for streaming in 2024
If you're in the market for a new smart TV but feel lost amid the tech terminology, you're not alone. Today's TVs typically offer direct access to streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney Plus and Hulu. The trick is to pick the best one from the many options on the market. Brands like Samsung, Vizio, LG and Sony are typically celebrated for producing high-quality products. The finest smart TVs not only boast superb picture and sound but also have ample ports for gaming and home theater systems.
These TVs come equipped with a ton of apps and feature Chromecast or Apple AirPlay, enabling you to cast from your phone directly. While similar features can be found on separate streaming devices like Apple TV 4K or Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, having them already built into the TV is much less of a hassle. After rigorous testing and review, our recommendations give you the best value, effortlessly combining streaming services with live TV. Read on as we help you find the best TV for streaming.
How we chose
When choosing the best smart TV, it's important to consider several key things. Picture quality, determined by resolution and color accuracy, is paramount, followed closely by sound quality and the intuitiveness of the TV's smart features. Streaming televisions should offer multiple ways to connect to the internet, like HDMI and Wi-Fi. Price and value for money are also very important because they make sure that customers get the best mix of features for their money. Furthermore, it should look good and work well.
Top smart TVs for streaming
- Best for overall value: TCL 6-Series Roku TV
- Best for a tight budget: Vizio V-Series
- Best high-end smart TV: LG OLED C2
- Best for picture quality (non-OLED): Samsung QN90B
- Best for style and decor: LG G2 OLED
- Best for 8K viewing: SAMSUNG QN900A Neo QLED 8K Smart TV
- Best smart TV interface: Sony Bravia XR A95K OLED
Best for overall value: TCL 6-Series Roku TV
About TCL 6-Series Roku TV
The TCL 6-Series Roku TV (R635) is a standout in the world of budget-friendly smart TVs, boasting exceptional picture quality. It has a fantastic user interface that is both intuitive and app-friendly. The Roku interface is not cluttered with ads and program suggestions like those found on Google TV and Amazon's smart TV platforms. You can conduct voice searches with the press of a button on the remote, and the TV integrates with Siri, Alexa and Hey Google when you connect your own compatible device. You can stream media from your iOS device or Mac computer to your TV using AirPlay 2. Ultimately, the TCL 6-Series delivers a top-notch viewing experience without straining your wallet.
Why is it the best?
The TCL 6-Series Roku TV offers outstanding value. The design, easy streaming navigation and compatibility with popular voice assistants elevate the user experience. It’s great for price-conscious shoppers who want top-quality and premium features.
- An affordable 4K TV with Dolby Vision
- Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast support
- Allows hands-free voice commands
About Vizio V-Series
The Vizio V-Series stands out among budget TVs because of its superior picture quality. Its full-array backlit LEDs, coupled with Dolby Vision bright mode, ensure optimal brightness for each pixel. Users will appreciate convenient extras such as Dolby Vision support, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth compatibility. Plus, with built-in Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast and a voice remote, accessing desired content becomes a breeze. However, its Achilles heel lies in its smart TV platform, Vizio SmartCast, which is ad-heavy and less intuitive than its counterparts like TCL's Roku-based platform. Nevertheless, for those prioritizing image quality and bonus features, attaching a separate streaming device to the Vizio is a viable solution.
Why is it the best?
The Vizio V-Series is an ideal pick for those on a tight budget due to its outstanding image quality combined with premium features not typically found in its price range. With full-array backlit LEDs, Dolby Vision bright mode, built-in Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast and a gaming-friendly interface, it offers a high-value viewing experience at an affordable cost. However, its Vizio SmartCast platform's shortcomings are a trade-off.
About LG OLED C2
The LG C2 OLED TV showcases exceptional picture quality. It's perfect for gamers and fully equipped for next-gen consoles like Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. The C2, with its razor-thin 1.8-inch profile, is available in sizes ranging from 24 to 97 inches. Film lovers can engage with the Filmmaker Mode, while various streaming apps cater to diverse preferences. Voice-command compatibility adds to the user experience. Its "Always Ready" tool offers an ambient mode to display art and photos. Though there isn't a drastic improvement from the previous LG C1, the C2's exceptional picture quality at its price point, combined with its versatile smart TV platform, makes it a top contender in the TV market.
Why is it the best?
Its thin design and captivating sound make it ideal for movie aficionados, especially with the Filmmaker Mode and a range of streaming apps. Additionally, voice-command functionality and the artistic "Always Ready" ambient mode elevate its appeal. Those seeking top-tier visual experiences, be it for gaming, cinema or streaming should choose the C2 for its unrivaled performance and versatility.
About Samsung QN90B
If you're on the hunt for a high-end TV with phenomenal image quality but aren't inclined to buy an OLED, the Samsung QN90B is a top choice. Leveraging QLED technology, enhanced by mini-LED, it delivers a brightness that outshines any OLED. With the Tizen smart interface, Samsung has made accessing all the major streaming services easy by placing the customizable app bar directly in your line of sight. Directly beneath are panels for live TV and your recently viewed content, accessible via the Recent option. The "Continue Watching" button is further down the page, followed by other hand-picked suggestions. The screen dominates its minimalist design, underscored by a unique "bending plate" stand—described as such by Samsung—which gives the TV an appearance of floating above furniture.
Why is it the best?
The Samsung QN90B ranks as the premier choice for those seeking the best in non-OLED picture quality, thanks to its advanced QLED technology augmented by mini-LED. Individuals who prioritize outstanding image quality and those who have a penchant for sleek aesthetics and convenient streaming features should gravitate toward the QN90B.
About LG G2 OLED
The G2 from LG's Gallery Series has a modern look that exudes elegance when mounted on the wall. However, those opting for a tabletop display must buy a stand separately. This TV shines not only in design but also in performance. It incorporates LG's advanced "OLED evo" panel, promising and delivering a 30% brightness enhancement over standard OLEDs. A major highlight is its streaming capability. LG's revamped webOS platform grants easy access to major streaming platforms and numerous free channels. Enhancing the experience, the TV integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and HomeKit. The accompanying Magic Remote offers dual voice assistant options, hands-free features, and an intuitive pointer navigation method. Although the new home screen aids centralized access, the previous pop-up menu enabled swifter transitions. Despite its premium status, some minor lags are noticeable, particularly in settings navigation.
Why is it the best?
The sleek design of the G2 is tailored to hang seamlessly on walls, mimicking an art piece. Its uniform, thin profile ensures minimal gaps, enhancing any living space's aesthetic. Ideal for individuals who prioritize design and elegance in their home decor, the G2 blends advanced technology with a refined appearance. However, it's essential for potential buyers to note that if they prefer a tabletop setting, they'll need to invest in a separate stand.
About SAMSUNG QN900A Neo QLED 8K Smart TV
Samsung's QN900A is a top-notch TV that's ready for the future, boasting a mesmerizing 33 million pixel display powered by an 8K QLED resolution. Its ultra-narrow appearance and vivid colors make it one of the sleekest televisions on the market. The AI-driven 'Neo Quantum Processor 8K' seamlessly upscales content, ensuring even 1080p and 4K visuals appear crisp. When you press the "home" button on your remote, a horizontal menu of your recently used apps will appear at the bottom of the screen. As you toggle through the apps, you will notice extra information hovering above the first row, including your recently watched TV shows and movies. This feature lets users pick up where they left off on the home screen. Samsung's One Connect box also elegantly manages cords, while built-in voice commands with Alexa, Google and Bixby add convenience.
Why is it the best?
The Samsung QN900A's intelligent technology ensures consistently brilliant brightness and picture quality. Coupled with its ultra-sleek design and handy features like voice control and a clutter-free cable box, it's a blend of form and function. The Samsung QN900A is an excellent investment for a top-tier viewing experience.
About Sony Bravia XR A95K OLED
The Sony Bravia XR A95K OLED is an exceptional TV. It combines the best technology in the business with Sony's advanced processing for performance that is unmatched in every way. The colors of this TV are striking, and the brightness is undeniable. It also comes with smart features that make it easier to use. Users can make adjustments on-screen or find your remote if you lose it. But its streamlined streaming capabilities truly set the Bravia XR A95K apart. The interface is user-friendly, making content discovery and continuation a seamless process. It prominently displays major titles and your preferred apps, while the "Continue Watching" section keeps track of ongoing shows. With Google TV integration, users can effortlessly search content using Google Assistant, replicating the ease of searching on smartphones or computers. This TV promises an elevated and efficient streaming experience for all content enthusiasts.
Why is it the best?
The Sony Bravia XR A95K OLED is characterized by its user-friendly design and seamless streaming capabilities. It organizes content well and makes it easy to find important titles, apps and shows that are still running. The inclusion of Google TV and Assistant makes searching even easier and replicates the convenience of using a smartphone.
Final thoughts
When choosing a smart TV, it is important to consider factors like cost, value for money, design and the availability of useful features that provide a seamless experience. Whether you are a gamer looking for great refresh rate or a movie lover looking to utilize as many streaming services as possible, there is an option to suit your needs.
FAQ
Do smart TVs have all streaming services?
Manufacturers often decide between proprietary platforms or third-party systems like Google TV, Android or Roku for their smart TVs. Regardless of their choice, users are usually not left wanting when it comes to app selection. Most popular streaming apps are widely available across these platforms, ensuring viewers can access their favorite content no matter which system powers their TV.
Is it better to get a smart TV or a streaming device?
Both built-in smart TV software and external streaming devices offer unique benefits. You might get better performance and broader app support from a streaming device, but your smart TV’s software might offer features you can’t get by plugging in a Fire TV Stick or Roku.
How much do smart TVs cost?
Smart TV prices vary significantly, from as low as $100 to exceeding $3,000. Generally, smaller screen sizes tend to be more affordable, while established brands often command higher prices. Investing more typically translates to superior image quality, ensuring a better viewing experience for the user. Whether you're on a budget or seeking premium features, it's crucial to balance size, brand reputation and image quality to find the best TV for your needs.
