Choosing the best TV for gaming involves several factors, including display quality, refresh rate, input lag, and compatibility with the latest gaming consoles and technologies. This guide delves into these factors and provides a comprehensive analysis of the top 10 gaming TVs available today.
What is a Gaming TV?
A gaming TV is a television specifically suited for video game use, offering features that enhance the gaming experience. Key attributes include low input lag, high refresh rates, and compatibility with advanced gaming technologies such as HDMI 2.1, variable refresh rate (VRR), and auto low latency mode (ALLM).
Top 5 Picks
- Max 4K Picture Perfection - Stream or game in over 1 billion colors enhanced with Quantum Color QLED. Deep contrast and high peak brightness are achieved with the Active Full Array Backlight + local dimming, enhanced with Dolby Vision HDR Bright Mode & HDR10+, and fine-tuned with Active Pixel Tuning.
- America’s Smart TV - Instantly access millions of titles with America's Smart TV. Stream shows, movies, news, sports, music, and more on all your favorite apps, and enjoy over 250 free channels on WatchFree+.
- Free TV Lives Here - Save on cable bills and stream for free with VIZIO WatchFree+. Built-in to every new VIZIO TV, WatchFree+ gives you 260+ live streaming channels and over 6,000 titles on demand. No subscriptions, logins, or fees.
- Ultimate Gaming TV - Truly built for gamers. Game in 4K at 120 fps or 1080p at 240 fps on PC. AMD FreeSync Premium, VRR, ultra-low input lag, HDMI 2.1, Dolby Vision, and the integrated gaming menu power on with Auto Game Mode when a console or PC is detected.
- The Future of Connectivity   - Stream in the fast lane with WiFi 6E. Double the bandwidth of 5G, 6GHz acts as a superhighway, allowing you to stream more content without interrupting other connected devices in your Smart Home. That's ideal 4K streaming.
- WIDE COLOR GAMUT: Dive into a dazzling world of color. Special phosphor technology expands the color spectrum and improves overall saturation. Just imagine experiencing hues that are truer and more brilliant than what’s on a regular LED TV.
- 4K AI UPSCALER: Bring what’s on screen into crystal-clear focus. Our 4k AI Upscaler transforms beloved classics, home movies, broadcast TV, and even streaming content into striking 4K quality. It’s amazing what can happen when every pixel works even harder.
- DTS VIRTUAL:X: Get lost in the scene. DTS Virtual:X uses digital sound processing to take you beyond your living room. This feature simulates omnidirectional sound with “rear” and “height” channels and no need for extra speakers. Let sound envelop you entirely from above, below and all sides.
- GAME MODE PLUS: A collection of technologies come together to create a dynamic gaming experience. A 60Hz panel, variable refresh rate, and auto low latency mode makes sure that the television can handle the rigors of next generation gaming consoles.
- VOICE REMOTE: Talk back to your TV. Voice Control puts you in charge of your own viewing experience. Switch shows, adjust the volume or explore new content, all at the sound of your own voice.
- 1800R curve monitor the curved display delivers a revolutionary visual experience with a leading 1800R screen curvature as the images appear to wrap around you for an in depth, immersive experience
- Hdmi, VGA & PC audio in ports
- High refresh rate 75Hz.Brightness (cd/m²):250 cd/m2
- Vesa wall mount ready; Lamp Life: 30,000+ Hours
- Windows 10 Sceptre Monitors are fully compatible with Windows 10, the most recent operating System available on PCs.Brightness: 220 cd/M2
- 1080p High-Definition - Watch TV in crisp, clear 1080p Full HD resolution and experience a brilliant picture with the VIZIO D-Series..Voltage : 120V.Viewable Area : 39.5''. Standby Power : <0.5W
- Full Array LED Backlight - Evenly distributed LEDs across the screen’s backlight deliver superior light uniformity and picture performance.
- IQ Picture Processor - Delivers superior picture processing, faster navigation, and quicker load times to get to your favorite content faster.
- V-Gaming Engine Automatically optimizes picture mode for gaming and makes next-gen console gameplay more responsive with Auto Game Mode, Variable Refresh Rate with AMD Freesync, D-Series lowest input lag, and newly added gaming menu.
- SmartCast - With intuitive navigation, enjoy instant access to the best selection of apps from top-tier streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, HBO Max and many more right out of the box.
- AIRSLIM: This TV blends right into your wall with a slim design; It brings clutter-free minimalism to the room without distracting you from what you watch
- 4K UPSCALING: Get a clearer picture for more of your shows and videos; 4K Upscaling transforms each pixel for improved content
- MOTION XCELERATOR: Watch your content smoothly while experiencing less lag and blur. It improves motionÂą between frames so you have a seamless picture
- MEGA CONTRAST: Automatically adjusts the brightness and contrast; It reduces the difference between light and dark areas so that objects on screen stand out more
- DYNAMIC CRYSTAL COLOR: One billion shades of color help produce greater detail on the screen; See more nuanced shades and tones that match real life
How We Chose the Best Gaming TVs
To compile this list, we considered the following criteria:
- Display Quality: Resolution, color accuracy, HDR performance, and overall picture quality.
- Gaming Features: Support for HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM, and other gaming-specific technologies.
- Input Lag: The delay between input and action on screen, crucial for responsive gaming.
- Refresh Rate: The number of times the TV refreshes the image per second, important for smooth gameplay.
- Overall Performance: General TV performance including smart features, audio quality, and build quality.
- User Reviews and Expert Opinions: Feedback from real-world users and professional reviews to gauge reliability and user satisfaction.
The 10 Best Gaming TVs
1. LG OLED C1 Series
Overview
The LG OLED C1 Series is renowned for its exceptional picture quality, low input lag, and robust gaming features, making it one of the top choices for gamers.
Specifications
- Display: OLED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~10ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM, G-Sync, FreeSync
Performance
The OLED panel provides perfect blacks and infinite contrast, enhancing the visual experience in both dark and bright scenes. The 120Hz refresh rate and support for VRR and ALLM ensure smooth and responsive gameplay, particularly with next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Build Quality
The C1 features a sleek, minimalist design with thin bezels and a robust stand. The build quality is premium, as expected from an LG OLED model.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional picture quality with deep blacks
- Low input lag
- Comprehensive gaming features
- Wide viewing angles
Cons:
- Potential for burn-in with static images
- Premium price
Ideal For
The LG OLED C1 Series is ideal for gamers seeking the best picture quality and advanced gaming features, particularly those with next-gen consoles.
2. Samsung QN90A Neo QLED
Overview
The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED combines Quantum Mini LEDs and QLED technology to deliver stunning brightness, contrast, and color accuracy, making it a superb choice for gaming.
Specifications
- Display: Neo QLED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~9ms
- HDR: HDR10+, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM, FreeSync Premium Pro
Performance
The Neo QLED panel provides excellent brightness and contrast, outperforming many OLEDs in well-lit environments. The QN90A supports HDMI 2.1 and features like VRR and ALLM, ensuring smooth and responsive gaming.
Build Quality
The TV features a premium design with a slim profile and sturdy construction. The stand is well-designed to provide stability and complement the TV’s aesthetic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding brightness and contrast
- Low input lag
- Strong gaming features
- Excellent for bright rooms
Cons:
- Blooming around bright objects on dark backgrounds
- Higher cost
Ideal For
The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED is perfect for gamers who play in brightly lit rooms and want a TV with exceptional brightness and gaming performance.
3. Sony X90J
Overview
The Sony X90J is a versatile LED TV offering excellent picture quality, low input lag, and robust gaming features, making it a great option for serious gamers.
Specifications
- Display: Full Array LED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~10ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR (via update), ALLM
Performance
The X90J’s full array LED panel provides deep blacks and bright highlights, with Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR enhancing picture quality. HDMI 2.1 ports and VRR support ensure excellent gaming performance.
Build Quality
Sony’s design is robust and stylish, with a focus on durability and functionality. The TV stands firmly and integrates well into most home setups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent picture quality
- Low input lag
- Good value for the features
- Strong HDR performance
Cons:
- Limited viewing angles
- VRR support via future firmware update
Ideal For
The Sony X90J is ideal for gamers seeking excellent picture quality and low input lag at a reasonable price, especially those who value Sony’s processing technology.
4. TCL 6-Series (R646)
Overview
The TCL 6-Series offers an excellent balance of performance, features, and affordability, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Specifications
- Display: QLED with Mini LED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~12ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM
Performance
The TCL 6-Series combines QLED and Mini LED technology to deliver vibrant colors and deep blacks. It supports HDMI 2.1 and other gaming features, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay.
Build Quality
The design is sleek and modern, with a sturdy build that belies its price point. The TV is well-constructed and integrates seamlessly into most living spaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great picture quality for the price
- Low input lag
- HDMI 2.1 support
- Strong HDR performance
Cons:
- Slightly higher input lag than premium models
- Limited motion handling
Ideal For
The TCL 6-Series is perfect for budget-conscious gamers looking for a TV with great picture quality and modern gaming features without breaking the bank.
5. Vizio P-Series Quantum X
Overview
The Vizio P-Series Quantum X delivers impressive brightness, color accuracy, and gaming features, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and general viewing.
Specifications
- Display: Quantum Dot LED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~14ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM
Performance
With its high brightness and excellent color performance, the P-Series Quantum X excels in both dark and bright environments. The support for HDMI 2.1 and VRR makes it a strong contender for gaming.
Build Quality
The TV has a robust build with a modern design, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance. The stand provides good stability, and the overall construction is solid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent brightness and color performance
- Good HDR support
- HDMI 2.1 and gaming features
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Higher input lag than some competitors
- Mediocre viewing angles
Ideal For
The Vizio P-Series Quantum X is ideal for gamers who want a bright, colorful display with strong gaming features at a competitive price.
6. Hisense U8G
Overview
The Hisense U8G offers fantastic value with its impressive picture quality, gaming features, and affordability, making it a great choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Specifications
- Display: Quantum Dot LED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~10ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM
Performance
The U8G’s Quantum Dot technology delivers vibrant colors and excellent contrast. With support for HDMI 2.1 and low input lag, it provides a smooth and responsive gaming experience.
Build Quality
The design is sleek and modern, with a solid build that feels premium despite its price point. The stand and overall construction are sturdy, ensuring a reliable setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great picture quality
- Low input lag
- HDMI 2.1 support
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- Blooming in dark scenes
- Average motion handling
Ideal For
The Hisense U8G is perfect for budget-conscious gamers looking for a TV with great picture quality and modern gaming features at an affordable price.
7. Panasonic HZ2000 OLED
Overview
The Panasonic HZ2000 OLED is a high-end TV known for its exceptional picture quality, color accuracy, and gaming features, making it a top choice for discerning gamers.
Specifications
- Display: OLED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~13ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM
Performance
The HZ2000 offers superb color accuracy and contrast thanks to its OLED panel. It supports HDMI 2.1 and other gaming features, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay with the latest consoles.
Build Quality
Panasonic’s design is robust and stylish, with a focus on durability and high-end aesthetics. The TV stands firmly and integrates well into most home setups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional picture quality
- Great color accuracy
- Comprehensive gaming features
- Premium build quality
Cons:
- Higher price
- Slightly higher input lag than some OLEDs
Ideal For
The Panasonic HZ2000 OLED is ideal for gamers seeking the best picture quality and advanced gaming features, particularly those who appreciate accurate color reproduction.
8. LG NanoCell 90 Series
Overview
The LG NanoCell 90 Series offers great value with its solid performance, gaming features, and affordability, making it a strong choice for mid-range budgets.
Specifications
- Display: NanoCell LED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~15ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM
Performance
The NanoCell technology provides vibrant colors and decent contrast. With support for HDMI 2.1 and low input lag, it offers a smooth and responsive gaming experience.
Build Quality
The design is modern and sleek, with a solid build that feels premium for its price point. The stand and overall construction are sturdy and reliable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great picture quality
- Low input lag
- HDMI 2.1 support
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Limited black levels compared to OLEDs
- Average HDR performance
Ideal For
The LG NanoCell 90 Series is perfect for mid-range budgets looking for a TV with good picture quality and gaming features at a reasonable price.
9. Sony A80J OLED
Overview
The Sony A80J OLED combines stunning picture quality with advanced gaming features, making it a top contender for serious gamers who value visual excellence.
Specifications
- Display: OLED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~9ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR (via update), ALLM
Performance
The A80J’s OLED panel delivers perfect blacks, excellent contrast, and vibrant colors. HDMI 2.1 and gaming features ensure a smooth and responsive gaming experience with next-gen consoles.
Build Quality
Sony’s design is sleek and durable, with a focus on high-end aesthetics. The TV stands firmly and integrates well into any living space.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional picture quality
- Low input lag
- Comprehensive gaming features
- Premium build quality
Cons:
- Higher price
- VRR support via future firmware update
Ideal For
The Sony A80J OLED is ideal for gamers seeking the best picture quality and advanced gaming features, particularly those with next-gen consoles.
10. Philips OLED805
Overview
The Philips OLED805 offers excellent picture quality, unique Ambilight technology, and solid gaming features, making it a great choice for immersive gaming experiences.
Specifications
- Display: OLED
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Input Lag: ~20ms
- HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG
- Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM
Performance
The OLED panel provides deep blacks and vibrant colors, enhanced by Philips’ P5 Perfect Picture Engine. Ambilight technology adds an immersive experience, and HDMI 2.1 ensures smooth gameplay.
Build Quality
The design is sleek and modern, with a robust build that feels premium. The Ambilight feature adds a unique touch, enhancing the overall experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional picture quality
- Ambilight technology
- Comprehensive gaming features
- Good value
Cons:
- Higher input lag than some competitors
- Ambilight may not appeal to everyone
Ideal For
The Philips OLED805 is perfect for gamers looking for a unique and immersive experience with excellent picture quality and advanced gaming features.
Who needs a gaming TV?
A gaming TV, with its specialized features and enhancements, can significantly elevate the gaming experience. However, the necessity of a gaming TV depends on various factors including gaming habits, console type, desired performance, and personal preferences. Here’s a detailed analysis of who would benefit the most from investing in a gaming TV.
Serious and Competitive Gamers
Performance Expectations
- Low Input Lag: Competitive gamers demand the fastest response times to ensure that their inputs are registered almost instantaneously. Low input lag is crucial in fast-paced games such as first-person shooters (FPS), real-time strategy (RTS), and fighting games, where milliseconds can make the difference between winning and losing.
- High Refresh Rates: A higher refresh rate (120Hz and above) is essential for smooth and fluid gameplay. It reduces motion blur and makes fast movements appear more natural and less jarring.
Gaming Technologies
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): VRR technologies like NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync minimize screen tearing and stuttering, providing a smoother gaming experience. This is particularly beneficial in competitive gaming scenarios.
- Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): ALLM automatically switches the TV to game mode when a console is detected, ensuring the lowest possible latency.
Examples
- eSports Athletes: Professional gamers who compete in tournaments and leagues need the absolute best performance to stay competitive.
- Streamers: Gaming streamers benefit from high-quality visuals and smooth performance, which enhances the viewing experience for their audience.
Console Gamers
Compatibility with Next-Gen Consoles
- PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X: These consoles support 4K resolution, 120Hz refresh rates, and HDMI 2.1. A gaming TV that supports these features will allow gamers to fully utilize the capabilities of their consoles, experiencing games as developers intended.
- Backward Compatibility: Gamers who play both modern and older console games can benefit from a TV that handles a wide range of resolutions and refresh rates efficiently.
Enhanced Visual Experience
- HDR and 4K Resolution: Gaming TVs often come with advanced HDR support (HDR10, Dolby Vision) and 4K resolution, providing richer colors, deeper contrasts, and more detailed visuals. This enhances the immersion and realism of games.
- Large Screen Size: Console gamers who enjoy playing from the comfort of their couch will appreciate larger screen sizes. Gaming TVs offer immersive experiences that smaller monitors can’t match.
Casual Gamers
Occasional Gaming with High-Quality Experience
- Multi-Use Needs: Casual gamers often use their TV for other purposes such as watching movies, streaming shows, and general TV viewing. A gaming TV with good picture quality and smart features provides a versatile solution for all their entertainment needs.
- Future-Proofing: Investing in a gaming TV can be a way to future-proof an entertainment setup. Casual gamers who occasionally play games still benefit from the advanced features and visual enhancements without needing to upgrade frequently.
Examples
- Family Entertainment: Families that use their TV for a mix of gaming, streaming, and cable will find a gaming TV beneficial for all members, from children playing educational games to parents watching movies.
- Social Gamers: Individuals who enjoy gaming as a social activity with friends and family will appreciate the improved visuals and performance of a gaming TV during multiplayer sessions.
Tech Enthusiasts and Early Adopters
Desire for the Latest Technology
- Cutting-Edge Features: Tech enthusiasts who always seek the latest and greatest technology will appreciate the advanced features found in gaming TVs, such as HDMI 2.1, 8K resolution (on select models), and sophisticated upscaling algorithms.
- Immersive Experience: Features like OLED panels with perfect blacks, QLED with high brightness, and Ambilight technology provide a more immersive and visually stunning experience, appealing to those who value high-quality visuals and innovation.
Examples
- Early Adopters: Individuals who enjoy being at the forefront of technology and experiencing the latest advancements in gaming and display technology will benefit from a gaming TV.
- Home Theater Enthusiasts: Those who invest in a comprehensive home theater setup, including high-end audio systems, will find that a gaming TV completes their setup with its superior picture quality and gaming-specific enhancements.
Hybrid Use Cases
PC Gamers Using Large Displays
- Big Screen Gaming: PC gamers who prefer playing on a larger screen from their couch rather than a traditional desk setup will benefit from a gaming TV. Features like low input lag, high refresh rates, and VRR ensure that the gaming experience is just as good, if not better, than on a monitor.
- Versatility: A gaming TV can serve both as a display for a powerful gaming PC and a traditional TV for other forms of entertainment, offering flexibility in how it is used.
Multimedia and Content Creators
- Content Creation and Consumption: Individuals who create and consume a lot of multimedia content, such as video editing, photo editing, and graphic design, will benefit from the high color accuracy and HDR support found in gaming TVs.
- Work and Play Balance: For those who use their TV for both work and gaming, having a high-quality display that performs well in both scenarios is advantageous.
Financial Considerations
Value for Money
- Long-Term Investment: While gaming TVs can be more expensive than standard models, the advanced features and improved performance offer better value over time. The enhanced durability and future-proofing ensure that users won’t need to upgrade frequently.
- All-in-One Solution: For individuals who want a single device that serves multiple purposes (gaming, streaming, TV viewing), investing in a gaming TV can be more economical than purchasing separate devices for each function.
Examples
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who are mindful of their budget but still want a high-quality gaming experience can find good value in gaming TVs that offer a balance of performance and cost.
- Premium Buyers: Individuals willing to invest more upfront for the best possible experience and longevity will find that high-end gaming TVs deliver exceptional performance and future-proof features.
Conclusion
A gaming TV is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a targeted investment for specific types of users. Serious and competitive gamers, console enthusiasts, casual gamers, tech aficionados, and those seeking an all-in-one entertainment solution will find significant benefits in a gaming TV. These devices offer enhanced performance, advanced features, and superior visual quality, making them well worth the investment for users who prioritize an exceptional gaming experience. Whether for competitive edge, immersive visuals, or versatile use, a gaming TV can elevate the way games are played and enjoyed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right TV for gaming depends on various factors, including picture quality, gaming features, input lag, and price. The TVs listed above represent the best options across different price ranges and preferences, ensuring that there’s a perfect gaming TV for everyone. Whether you prioritize the deep blacks of OLED, the brightness of QLED, or the value of budget-friendly options, this guide provides comprehensive insights to help you make an informed decision.
