Best 4K TV for 2021 – CNET [CNET]

4K resolution is no longer an expensive step-up feature. Most TVs with a screen size of at least 43 inches are available in 4K resolution and prices for 4K TVs are now basically equivalent to older, lower-resolution 1080p TVs. It’s hard to find any model that isn’t 4K if you’re shopping for a 50-inch screen or bigger.

The best 4K TV screen may be more affordable than you think. The popular TCL 4-Series, which I like a lot as an entry-level option, starts at a budget TV price of less than $300 for the 43-inch model.

As you might expect at those prices, 4K resolution on a screen doesn’t necessarily mean great picture quality. All those millions of pixels — 8,294,440 to be exact — don’t have much of an impact on how good the image looks. The best-performing TVs in our reviews and the best TVs for the money excel in other areas of picture quality, such as contrast, dynamic range, peak brightness and HDR performance. If you’re looking for a gaming TV, you’ll also want to consider factors like input lag. These TVs have 4K resolution, too, but that’s basically table stakes these days.

The list below represents the best 4K televisions (which are, let’s face it, the best TVs, full stop) I’ve reviewed in CNET’s test lab, where I compare them side by side to see which ones are most worth buying. I considered factors like picture quality, design, smart TV functionality, connectivity and more (basically, everything you need to watch your favorite TV shows and make the most of your Fire TV stick or streaming apps). Here are my latest recommendations, with the following notes to keep in mind:

• Unless noted otherwise, all of the prices you’ll see are for 65-inch models.
• Looking for a specific screen size? Check out: 32-inch TVs, 43-inch TVs, 55-inch TVs, 65-inch TVs and 75-inch TVs.
• Some of the TVs below came out in 2020. New 2021 models are now available and we’ve reviewed a handful so far. For the 2020 TVs on this list I’ve included a “2021 outlook” section with everything I know (so far) about the new models.
• If you’re worried that new 2021 TVs will have some great feature or picture quality enhancement you’ll miss out on if you buy a TV now, relax. TVs are generally a mature technology and our advice is that if you need a new TV now, you should get one. 

Read more: Do this to your TV now: 9 crucial settings to improve the picture

Other stuff to know about buying a new 4K TV

I’m pretty sure you’d be happy with any one of the TVs above, but a new set can be a big investment, so maybe you’re looking for a bit more information. Here’s a quick and dirty list.

• In my opinion, bigger is better. Big TVs are cheaper than ever and your money is best spent on large screen sizes rather than a slight upgrade in image quality.
• If you don’t like the built-in smart TV system, you can always add a media streamer (like a Fire TV stick or Roku box). They’re cheap and easy to use, and receive updates more frequently than most smart TVs. See our picks of the best media streamers.
• Most built-in speakers sound terrible, so it’s worthwhile to pair your new set with a soundbar or other speaker system. Good ones start at around $100. See the best soundbars.

Looking for even more info? Here’s everything to know about buying a new TV in 2021. 

More guides for finding the perfect TV

• Best TVs for gaming with low input lag
• Best HDMI cables for your new 4K and HDR TV in 2021
• How Samsung QLED and LG OLED, the two best TV technologies, compare in 2021
• HDR formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10, Technicolor and HLG explained
• Best 75-inch TVs for 2021
• Best 65-inch TVs for 2021
• Best 32-inch TV for 2021
• How to buy a TV
• Best TV antennas for cord cutters, starting at just $10
• Best 55-inch TVs for 2021 
• Best Dolby Atmos soundbar of 2021
• Budget hack: Replace Netflix and other pricey subscriptions with these free versions