Best 85-Inch TV for 2024 – CNET [CNET]

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A big TV is a big investment. At CNET, our general advice for TV shoppers is that bigger is usually better, especially if you’re looking to get the most return on your money. If you’ve been considering stepping up in size, and you want to save some cash, now’s the time to start seriously looking. To help you find the right big-screen TV for your needs and your budget, we’ve rounded up some of the best 85-inch TVs on the market right now.

The list below represents the best TVs I’ve reviewed in CNET’s test lab, where I’ve compared them side by side. I’ve actually reviewed the 65-inch sizes in the series for most of the models listed below, but the 83- and 85-inch versions are basically identical beyond screen size. 

After testing a handful of the best TVs for the money, I’ve found that the TCL QM8 series tops the list for a number of reasons. The QM8 offers superb picture quality overall, all the features you need in a modern television — including 4K/120Hz input and variable refresh rate that can get the most out of consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X — and an affordable price. When a friend asks me what 85-inch TV to buy, I tell them the TCL QM8 series.

There are plenty of other excellent choices out there, however. Even though the QM8 is my current favorite for most people, it might not be right for your preferences or budget.

With all the TVs available today, and all the technical terms and jargon associated with television technology, it can be tough to figure out what’s important. Here’s a quick guide to help cut through the confusion.

Price: TVs range in price from $100 to more than $2,000. Smaller screens are cheaper, well-known brands are more expensive, and spending more money can also get you better image quality. Most entry-level TVs have a good enough picture for most people, but TVs last a long time, so it might be worth spending more to get a better picture. It’s also best to shop for a TV in the fall, when prices are lower.

Screen size: Bigger is better in our book. We recommend a size of at least 43 inches for a bedroom TV and at least 55 inches for a living room or main TV — and 65 inches or larger is best. More than any other “feature,” stepping up in TV screen size is the best use of your money. One of the most common post-TV-purchase complaints we’ve heard is from people who didn’t go big enough. And we almost never hear people complain that their TV is too large.

Capability: When it comes to entry-level TVs, the most important feature is what kind of smart TV system the TV uses. Among midrange models, look for a feature including full-array local dimming, mini-LED and 120Hz refresh rate, which (unlike some other extras) do help improve the picture, in our experience. And among high-end TVs, OLED technology is your best bet.

For more TV buying advice, check out How to Buy a TV.