Discover the top smart TVs of 2023, offering unrivaled picture quality, impressive features, and the ultimate streaming experience for every budget.
Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and behold the dazzling world of smart TVs! These modern marvels are flooding the market faster than you can say "Netflix and chill," promising to stream your favorite shows without the hassle of extra devices. But fear not, my dear friends, for we are here to guide you through the bewildering landscape of these high-tech gizmos.
In our quest to unravel the mysteries of the smart TV realm, we've come to a profound realization: picture quality reigns supreme in the land of television purchases. Yes, my fellow adventurers, you can always pimp up your TV's brainpower with a nifty streaming device, all for the price of a fancy dinner (well, a fancy dinner for one, but still). Except, of course, for those budget TVs that make your wallet sob uncontrollably. For those unfortunate souls, we've concocted a special list where we give the smart TV system a bit more love, considering it could gulp down a significant chunk of the overall cost.
Now, behold our magnificent list! It's a magical mix of TVs, meticulously ranked based on how much bang you get for your buck. But that's not all, my friends. We also have a little something extra for you—our honest opinions about those built-in smart TV systems. Because, let's face it, if you're going to spend your hard-earned cash, you might as well know if the TV's brain is a genius or a bit of a dimwit.
So gather 'round, curious souls, and let us embark on this grand adventure of finding the best picture quality without sacrificing our sanity. With our trusty list in hand, we'll conquer the TV kingdom and stream our way to blissful entertainment. Onward, my friends, to a world where smart TVs and laughter reign supreme!
TCL 6-Series Roku TV
The best value smart TV you can buy
Introducing the TCL 6-Series Roku TV, the unbeatable smart TV for your buck! Year after year, it has reigned supreme, and the 2022 version (aka R655 series) continues the legacy. Brace yourself for jaw-dropping visuals, thanks to mini-LED tech and superb full-array local dimming. Plus, it's got gaming extras and a snazzy stand to accommodate your soundbar. And let's not forget the star of the show—Roku TV OS, our absolute favorite. Note: Other versions are available, like the R646 series with Google TV and the pricier 8K R648 series. Prepare to be amazed by the king of affordable smart TVs!
Price- $950 at Best Buy$950 at Amazon
TCL 4-Series
Most value for money
Meet the TCL 4-Series, the ultimate budget-friendly smart TV system! Available in a range of sizes from 43 to 85 inches, this LED wonder delivers excellent picture quality just a smidge below the Vizio V-Series (which is still pretty darn good). But what sets the TCL apart and secures its spot at the top of our list is its incredible Roku smart TV system, leaving Vizio's SmartCast in the dust.
Sure, the 4-Series may lack fancy features like Dolby Vision, Bluetooth connectivity, and AMD FreeSync with a variable refresh rate, which the Vizio proudly offers. But here's the deal, my friends: when it comes to budget TVs, streaming superiority reigns supreme in our book. And that's precisely where the TCL 4-Series shines.
So whether you're eyeing the 43-inch beauty or going all out with the mammoth 85-inch beast, prepare for 4K resolution goodness and enjoy the convenience of three HDMI ports to connect your devices. Let the TCL 4-Series Roku TV bring affordable entertainment bliss into your home, proving that a stellar smart TV system can truly steal the show.
Price- $270 at Amazon$330 at Walmart$270 at Best Buy
LG OLED C2
Most affordable premium smart TV
The LG OLED C2, the pinnacle of high-end smart TVs! Its picture quality reigns supreme, surpassing all non-OLED competitors with perfect black levels, unbeatable contrast, and fantastic off-angle viewing. Gaming features are top-notch, making it an ideal companion for Xbox or PlayStation enthusiasts. With a range of sizes available, though pricier for the larger models, the C2 delivers unmatched visual bliss.
But here's the catch: the WebOS smart TV system, carried over from its predecessor, can be a bit underwhelming. Skip the hassle and simply attach a great streaming device to this pricey TV. Let the LG OLED C2 redefine your viewing experience and leave you in awe.
Price- $1,697 at Crutchfield$1,700 at Best Buy$1,700 at Target
Hisense U8H Google TV
The best smart TV you can buy runner-up
The Hisense U8H Google TV, the mighty runner-up for the best smart TV for your money! Available in sizes of 55, 65, and 75 inches, this LED wonder with local dimming offers superb image quality that gives mid-priced competitors a run for their money.
The Hisense U8H shines with its exceptional brightness, which enhances picture quality in well-lit rooms and makes HDR content truly come alive. It even outshines the TCL in brightness and offers better contrast. However, in our side-by-side comparison, the TCL's slightly more accurate image gave it a slight edge overall.
Here's where the Hisense brings its own charm: it boasts Google TV instead of Roku, and unlike the TCL, the U8H includes an ATSC 3.0 tuner. The choice between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference, as both are stellar options that won't disappoint.
So whether you go for the TCL or the Hisense U8H, rest assured that you're in for a treat. These TVs are primed to deliver a visual feast, making your movies, shows, and games truly pop. Take your pick and revel in the joy of a fantastic smart TV experience.
Price- $998 at Amazon$998 at Walmart$1,000 at Best Buy
Vizio V-Series
The highest picture quality on a cheap smart TV
The Vizio V-Series, the champion of budget smart TV picture quality! Available in a wide range of sizes, from 43 to 75 inches, this LED gem delivers a picture that stands tall among its budget TV peers.
During our comparisons, the Vizio V-Series showcased the most balanced and accurate picture, earning it the top spot for 2022. It comes packed with useful extras like Dolby Vision support, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth compatibility, and variable refresh rate, offering a potential gaming experience with smoother visuals.
Now, let's address the elephant in the room—the Vizio SmartCast smart TV platform. It's a bit crowded, sluggish, and filled with pesky ads for platforms like Tubi and Kidoodle TV. That's why the TCL 4-Series with Roku steals the crown for the best smart TV platform. However, fear not! If you value the Vizio's impressive image quality and extra features, you can always enhance your viewing experience by adding a separate streaming device.
So, if you're seeking unparalleled budget TV picture quality, look no further than the Vizio V-Series. With its remarkable visuals and enticing features, it's sure to bring your entertainment to life. And if you're craving a seamless smart TV experience, simply bring along a trusty streaming device. Get ready for budget brilliance!
Price-$300 at Best Buy$312 at B&H Photo-Video
Roku Plus Series
Second Best Mid-Range Tv
The Roku Plus Series, the stellar runner-up for the best mid-priced smart TV! Available in sizes of 55, 65, and 75 inches, this LED wonder with local dimming joins the fierce competition of TVs in the middle pricing range.
What sets the Roku Plus Series apart is its exclusive partnership with Roku, leaving no room for other brands on board. It brings some impressive enhancements to the table, including QLED technology and full-array local dimming, resulting in a superior picture compared to the TCL 4-Series and similar models. However, it falls short of the Vizio MQX in terms of gaming capabilities with its lack of 120Hz and overall picture quality.
If you prioritize those extras, saving up for the Vizio MQX might be the way to go. However, if you value the Roku software and don't mind sacrificing a bit on gaming and picture quality, the Roku Plus Series offers exceptional value for your money. It's a fantastic choice, especially if you're a fan of the Roku interface.
So, brace yourself for the immersive world of the Roku Plus Series, where dazzling visuals and the seamless Roku experience await. It's a top contender in the mid-priced smart TV arena, ready to elevate your entertainment journey.
Price-$650 at Best Buy
Samsung QN90B
Best Non-Oled Tv
The Samsung QN90B, the ultimate high-end smart TV that's not an OLED! Available in a range of sizes, from 43 to 85 inches, this QLED beauty with Mini-LED technology is here to satisfy your craving for spectacular image quality.
If you desire a TV that delivers breathtaking visuals without opting for an OLED display, look no further. The Samsung QN90B combines QLED TV technology with Mini-LED enhancements, resulting in a brighter image that rivals even the best OLED TVs. While OLED still reigns supreme in terms of contrast, the QN90B's QLED screen brings you closer than ever to OLED-like brilliance.
But wait, there's more! The older version, the QN90A, is still available at a lower price point. It's a fantastic performer in its own right, though slightly dimmer than its successor. It may lack some of the 2022 model's features, such as the new game hub with cloud gaming, but it remains an excellent choice for discerning viewers.
Samsung's onscreen smart TV system is top-notch, boasting quick responses and a vast selection of apps. While we prefer Roku and Android/Google TV (found on Sony TVs) overall due to their extensive app libraries, Samsung's system surpasses LG and Vizio's offerings. Plus, like most modern TVs (including Roku), the Samsung QN90B comes with the Apple TV app and supports Apple's AirPlay system.
Get ready to bask in the brilliance of the Samsung QN90B, the high-end non-OLED TV of your dreams. Its cutting-edge technology, impressive smart features, and striking visuals will captivate your senses. Experience the pinnacle of smart TV excellence!