Upgrade Your Home Theater: The Ultimate TV Buying Guide 2025

Our top-rated TV this year, the LG OLED evo G4 scored a perfect 10/10 for its class-leading HDR brightness, near-infinite contrast, and cinematic black levels. In our testing, fast response and four full HDMI 2.1 ports made it a dream for multi-console gaming, while WebOS kept streaming smooth. At $1896.99, it also undercuts many premium rivals, boosting overall value. Just note the usual OLED burn-in considerations, plus a few reported eARC/HDMI quirks, and the absence of HDR10+ if that format matters to you.

$1,896.99

at Bhphotovideo

This 85-inch Hisense U9 was a showstopper in our testing, blasting out spectacular HDR highlights and exceptionally deep blacks with minimal blooming thanks to its Mini-LED local dimming. Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HDMI 2.1 bandwidth up to 4K/144Hz make movies and next-gen gaming shine, with low input lag and responsive Game Mode. We did note slow pixel transitions and some VRR quirks at 1080p/240Hz, plus reflections can distract if a lamp faces the screen. At 8.5/10, it's a top-tier large-screen value.

$2,198.00

at Walmart

Sony's BRAVIA XR X95K provides excellent upscaling and color accuracy, significantly improving lower-resolution content, yet it's somewhat limited by only two HDMI 2.1 ports. Its inability to use VRR and local dimming simultaneously also affects flexibility. Scoring a 7/10, it’s a dependable choice for high-quality visuals, especially for users who appreciate Sony’s trusted processing and picture tech.

$1,899.99

at Newegg

As a flagship 8K set, the Samsung QN900D impressed us with class-leading upscaling and stunning HDR punch, and the One Connect Box keeps cable clutter neatly out of sight. Gaming is well supported with VRR, ALLM, and 4K/120, though motion clarity can soften due to slow pixel transitions. The bigger drawback during our review was the lack of Dolby Vision for some streaming titles. Scoring 8/10, it's spectacular but pricey - many will find top 4K models deliver similar wow for far less.

$5,099.99

at Bestbuy

The Hisense 55" Class U7 Mini-LED ULED TV, scored 7/10 from us due to its captivating HDR colors and impressive brightness up to 3000 nits. Our testing revealed vibrant visuals, although gaming lags with slow pixel responses and angle limitations somewhat diminish the experience. Despite those minor drawbacks, it's a smart choice for viewers seeking vivid visual performance, especially in cinematic settings rather than purely gaming focuses.

$1,098.00

at Walmart

The LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K G5 Series is a top-tier choice for a luxurious home cinema experience, with pristine picture quality and support for Dolby Vision and Atmos. In our testing, its smart features and gaming capabilities elevated it above other models, earning it a notable 9/10 rating. Although its high price and optional stand purchase may deter some, its performance justifies the investment. Perfect for cinephiles seeking superior visual and audio quality.

$2,199.99

at Lg

TCL's QM8 is a value play for big, bright pictures, but it scored 6.5/10 in our testing - behind the Hisense U8 - largely due to blooming and Dolby Vision inconsistencies. In a bright room, HDR highlights punch hard and Mini-LED local dimming delivers solid contrast, while gamers get 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM. We did notice color and contrast wash out off-axis, so centered seating helps. At $1,093.32, it's compelling if you want size and speed, but buy from a retailer with easy returns.

$1,093.32

at Newegg

We like the LG QNED for its effective Mini-LED local dimming that, in our testing, delivered convincingly deep blacks and punchy contrast in many scenes. HDMI 2.1 with 4K/120, VRR, and low input lag make it console-ready, webOS covers key apps, and its strong SDR brightness holds up well in brighter rooms. However, blooming around subtitles, poor direct reflection handling, and slow pixel transitions were noticeable, softening fast action. At 6.5/10 and $2,199.99, it sits mid-pack in our guide, offering less value than similarly priced premium alternatives.

$2,199.99

at Shopjetson

Looking for big HDR punch without a flagship price? While not our highest-scoring TV, TCL's QM7 scored 7.5/10 in our testing, delivering very high peak brightness and excellent color volume from its QD mini-LED backlight with robust local dimming. Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG and IMAX Enhanced support plus 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM make it great for movies and gaming, though only two HDMI 2.1 ports and no ATSC 3.0 limit future-proofing. Off-axis viewing and earlier software/brightness quirks are the main caveats, but at $1,079.99 it's strong value.

$1,079.99

at Walmart

The Panasonic OLED Z95A excels in delivering rich blacks and vibrant colors, offering impressive picture quality for home theaters. Its high-quality built-in sound can reduce the need for external speakers, but its limited HDMI ports and slightly thicker design might be inconvenient for wall mounting. With a 7/10 rating, it’s a solid choice for those valuing visuals and sound, despite some connectivity restrictions.

$2,499.99

at Panasonic

For budget-conscious buyers, the Toshiba 75-inch C350 Series LED TV offers vibrant 4K quality without breaking the bank, scoring 6/10 in our evaluation. It excels in user-friendliness with its Fire TV interface and Alexa voice remote, though it falls behind in contrast during dark scenes and advanced gaming features; nonetheless, it's a solid choice for those who value simplicity over cutting-edge specs in a larger screen.

$369.99

at Bestbuy

For sheer bang-for-buck on a big screen, the Vizio Quantum Pro 75-inch stood out in our testing with about 1000-nit peak brightness and full-array local dimming for punchy HDR. Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and FreeSync Premium Pro VRR with 120Hz make movies and gaming feel lively at a bargain price. The trade-offs: SmartCast can feel sluggish, speakers are just OK, and reliability reports give us pause. With a 7/10 score, it beats ultra-budget sets on performance but lacks the polish of pricier rivals.

$598.00

at Walmart

Despite Roku's friendly smart TV interface, this Pro Series 4K QLED Mini-LED scored a 4.5/10 in our testing, the weakest value of the bunch at $1,699.99. It gets impressively bright in SDR and HDR, and the built-in speakers sound better than most, so a soundbar isn't urgent. However, off-axis color and contrast drop quickly and the anti-reflective coating struggles, and while gamers get 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, the narrow sweet spot favors centered seating. Unless you find a steep discount, the Hisense U8 delivers better performance for less.

$1,699.99

at Electronicexpress

On a tight budget and just need a big screen for streaming? The TCL S5 keeps costs ultra-low while still packing Google TV, Dolby Vision/HDR10+, and gamer-friendly VRR/ALLM, which we found handy for casual play. During our review, the lack of local dimming and modest peak brightness meant HDR looked flat, and narrow viewing angles limited wide-sofa setups. Scoring 4.5/10 - the lowest in our roundup - it's best for secondary rooms or dorms, not a centerpiece home-theater where contrast and brightness matter.

$287.49

at Doordash

At $769.99 and a 7/10 in our roundup, the Amazon Fire TV 55" Omni Mini‑LED delivers HDR pop without a big price. In our testing, high peak brightness and lots of dimming zones made highlights and contrast stand out even in bright rooms. Hands‑free Alexa and Fire TV integration are convenient, and the built‑in 2.1 speakers with a rear sub add fuller sound than most flats. Just know the UI can feel sluggish, HDMI 2.1 ports are limited for multi-console setups, and we saw occasional color inconsistency and blooming.

$769.99

at Lenonlures

The Samsung Frame Pro LS03FW offers a unique art display mode with its matte finish and Neo QLED technology, providing excellent brightness and contrast for both artwork and movies. Its higher cost and input lag in gaming mode are minor downsides in comparison to its stylish design. If aesthetics matter as much as picture quality, this TV scores a 6.5/10 and is ideal for those wanting a blend of art and entertainment.

$2,099.99

at Samsung

Samsung's Neo QLED QN90F combines stunning brightness and contrast with vibrant visuals, supported by comprehensive gaming features like 4K@165Hz. While its sophisticated design and picture quality are standout qualities, some users find the setup process more complex and navigation less intuitive. It scores a decent 7.5/10, perfect for users who prioritize bright, contrast-rich displays with gaming capabilities.

$1,399.99

at Samsung

Bright-room viewers and gamers should have the Sony BRAVIA 7 on their shortlist. In our review, its mini-LED backlight delivered exceptional peak brightness, strong HDR highlights, and excellent contrast with precise local dimming, earning an 8/10. 4K@120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and low latency make it a smooth fit for PS5/PC, though only two HDMI 2.1 ports can be limiting. Off-axis color/contrast drop and occasional firmware freezes were our main knocks; at $1,499.99, it's a high-performance Google TV for centered seating, especially compared with pricier OLEDs.

$1,499.99

at Sony

The Samsung 65" Neo QLED 4K QN85D impresses with AI-powered upscaling and gaming prowess, making it ideal for tech-savvy gamers ready to unleash 120Hz at 4K on their next-gen consoles. While its steep price and complex setup might deter the casual viewer, our tests show gaming enthusiasts will appreciate its vibrant QLED display and dynamic HDR features. Despite scoring 7.5/10, its value shines in advanced gaming experiences rather than budget approaches.

$1,199.99

at Samsung

The Samsung 55" OLED S95F offers an exceptional visual treat with its vibrant colors and anti-glare display, perfect for well-lit rooms. During our review, we noticed its 165Hz refresh rate and gaming features like VRR enhance the gaming experience significantly. However, the absence of Dolby Vision HDR and AI content alteration might not suit purists seeking original content integrity. Despite these drawbacks, its ultra-thin design and brightness ensure it remains a strong choice for tech enthusiasts.

$2,199.99

at Samsung

The 75" Neo QLED 4K QN90D stands out with its bright, glare-free display perfect for sunny rooms, as found in our reviews. Its low input lag enhances the gaming experience, yet some viewers reported motion blur and navigation complexities due to its Samsung account dependence. While it scores a respectable 7.5/10, movie lovers seeking Dolby Vision support might pass. Overall, it's a solid choice for those prioritizing vibrant visuals in bright environments.

$2,599.99

at Samsung

Samsung's Q80D excels in delivering vibrant Quantum Dot colors with impressive contrast, scoring a reliable 7/10 in our tests. Despite missing Dolby Vision, its sound system surprised us with its quality, although slight color calibration is needed out of the box. It's a great fit for mid-range buyers looking for balanced sound and picture quality with gaming-friendly features, though the absence of certain HDR may disappoint tech enthusiasts seeking higher-end visuals.

$529.99

at Samsung

The Samsung OLED S90F delivers bright, color-rich 4K performance, particularly shining in HDR content, as observed in our reviews. Notable gaming features like 4K at 144Hz boost its appeal among gamers, though software quirks and the absence of Dolby Vision pulls down its overall experience. Earning a 7.5/10, it might interest gaming enthusiasts with a priority for vibrant OLED visuals, while the somewhat lower price compared to high-end models maintains broad appeal for various setups.

$1,499.99

at Samsung

The VIZIO 55" Class Quantum 4K QLED HDR Smart TV stands out with its vibrant color display and impressive array of supported HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG. In our testing, we found its FreeSync VRR and Game Mode provided a smooth gaming experience, though the lack of local dimming and bass-light speakers diminish its suitability for more cinematic setups. Earning a 6.5/10, this model is a practical, budget-friendly choice for those prioritizing HDR support over perfect sound and contrast.

$264.99

at Target

For a cinematic OLED look without going flagship, the Sony BRAVIA 8 delivers deep blacks and rich color that impressed us in movies and games. VRR, ALLM and 120Hz keep inputs responsive, and the built‑in speakers are decent, though our experience shows a soundbar still elevates big‑screen impact. At $1999.99 and a 7/10, it trails higher-scoring picks like LG’s G4 (10/10) and Samsung’s S95D (7.5/10) on value. Be aware of the small, non‑backlit remote and reflections that can wash contrast in very bright rooms.

$1,999.99

at Bestbuy

Simply put, Sony's BRAVIA XR A95L earned its 9.5/10 during our review, and it's our top-rated choice for cinephiles and gamers. The QD-OLED panel's exceptional color volume and HDR accuracy (with Dolby Vision) make movies and games look effortlessly lifelike, while the built-in acoustic sound system beats most TV speakers. Gamers get 4K@120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, though only two HDMI 2.1 ports may cramp multi-device setups. It's pricier at $1,849, and we noticed subpixel color fringing on fine text, but as a pick it's outstanding.

$1,849.00

at Greentoe

Samsung’s S95D is the rare OLED that tames bright rooms—its matte, glare‑free screen and high HDR peak brightness kept detail intact in our testing. Gamers will love the low input lag, VRR and 144Hz support, while Tizen keeps streaming straightforward, though the lack of Dolby Vision and ABL dimming in sustained bright scenes are compromises. At $2997.99 with a 7.5/10, it matches other strong performers like Samsung’s QN90D in score but delivers richer OLED contrast. If price is a concern, LG’s G4 earned a higher 10/10 value overall.

$2,997.99

at Bestbuy

In our review, the LG OLED evo C5 Series scored an impressive 8.5/10, thanks to its stunning picture quality with perfect blacks and vivid colors—ideal for immersive home theaters. Gaming features like a 0.1ms response time set a benchmark for responsiveness, although the audio requirements and non-backlit remote can be drawbacks. Premium in price and experience, it’s perfect for cinephiles and gamers prioritizing breathtaking visuals over basic audio solutions.

$1,199.99

at Lg

Looking for a reasonably priced OLED for movies and gaming? In our testing, the LG B4 delivered perfect blacks, wide viewing angles, and four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports for multiple 4K/120 consoles - earning a 7.5/10 in our guide. Dolby Vision support and webOS updates add long-term appeal, though peak brightness trails higher-end OLEDs. Our experience shows the built-in speakers are middling and occasional Dolby Vision/VRR firmware hiccups can pop up, so plan on a soundbar and keep software updated.

$1,099.99

at Walmart

While not the highest scorer in our guide, the Samsung Q80D shines in bright rooms thanks to high native brightness and a punchy QLED panel. In our testing, the four HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K@120Hz, VRR, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro made it an easy pick for multi-console gamers. That said, its 6.5/10 score reflects compromises: haloing in dark scenes, narrow viewing angles, and occasional uniformity banding. For $1,099.99, it's a solid mixed-use TV on Tizen, best for centered seating and bright-room viewing.

$1,099.99

at Lowes

If you want near-premium performance without the premium price, the Hisense U8 is our bright-room standout, earning an 8/10 in our review at $1,099.99. Its Mini-LED backlight hits exceptional peak brightness with strong local dimming, and gaming felt buttery with 4K/120, VRR, ALLM, and low input lag. We did find the default processing can overbrighten or oversaturate, so dialing back Peak Brightness and color pays off. Off-axis color shifts and occasional Android TV stutters are the main trade-offs versus pricier OLEDs.

$1,099.99

at Bestbuy