My best value TVs, 2018-2019 Edition

[Dodgexander]

My best value TVs, 2018-2019 Edition
With Black Friday coming up we should see the first serious discounts to reach TVs hence I decided to delay my guide this year until now. Generally if you purchase a model line before Black Friday each year you aren't going to get fantastic value for money. You can read more about the best time to buy a TV here.
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These are my own personal recommendations, based on reviews, known specifications, panel info and user feedback. The recommendations are based on general use.

Please read my FAQ's here before posting in the thread for advice.

Gamers click here.

Before choosing a TV you must understand which panel type you want from a TV, all have their pros and cons here.

This thread is compiled using model numbers from the UK market, if you are from the EU, North America or the Rest of the World model numbers will differ. Please see here for model numbering differences in different regions.
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Spoiler

Please note I am still working on this thread so some functions may not work/be unavailable. I am looking for feedback for the guide so please let me know if I have missed anything out, messed up or where you think it can improve.

IMPORTANT!!​

Please remember that an upgrade won't always be an upgrade and in many cases getting a new UHD model can mean for worse picture quality than your current TV (sometimes compared to models as much as 10 year old). Do not automatically assume that a new TV will be better than your current one and do not assume that gaming at UHD will automatically be better than FHD, there are complications and drawbacks to using an UHD model which must be understood before purchasing!

See: Should I upgrade? - UHD vs FHD

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

55"
​

The most commonly purchased TV size and the first size where manufacturers offer high end TVs. Choose this size to get better value for money, more choice and better specifications than smaller models.

Beware also that for most people, 55" is really going to be on the small side to make the most of UHD content. For UHD to look better, look at larger TV sizes or view very close up to the screen.

Up to and around £600
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Hisense A6xxx Series
2. Hisense U7A - This improves on the above model range with a wide colour gamut, an extra HDMI 1.4 port and a 120hz panel. It is worth spending more on this model if you want to tweak motion settings for less stutter, blur and judder. It is also the cheapest TV that can display film content without 3:2 pulldown applied. Get this model if you want the best HDR but cannot afford to spend more.
3. Philips 6xxx Series - An alternative if you don't want to buy Hisense. Not as good overall value as Hisense though as they cost roughly the same as the U7A for the specifications of the A series.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. LG SK8xxx series - If you can stretch to this you get mid range specs at low prices.
2. Panasonic FX700
3. Sony XF7xxx Series

Up to and around £1000
Most people don't need TVs this good, overall they build on TVs above with better connectivity, superior anti reflection filters, brighter SDR for very bright rooms and brighter HDR. This is where we start to see TVs where HDR starts to improve. 120hz panels are most common at this budget also which means these are the first TVs that allow better control of motion using both motion interpolation and dark frame insertion. Picture processing is generally improved a little compared to cheaper TVs so you can expect slightly better upscaling.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF9005 - If you want decent HDR, the cheapest TV that comes with it.
2. Samsung NU80xx series or if priced only a little extra, the Q6FN - A cheaper option but you will have to settle for average rather than poor HDR. Good gaming features. More info compared to Hisense U7A here.
3. Samsung Q7FN - I would only suggest this model instead of the Sony XF9005 if you wanted to retain bright HDR and also wanted a better TV overall for gaming.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FX750 - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel.
2. Sony XF85xx or XF87xx series - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel.

Up to and around £1300
This is where HDR starts to get really good and the minimum I would go for if you want good HDR. In the case of the OLEDs listed, even those not using much HDR content will see the most gains in picture quality all-around due to OLED tech.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. Philips OLED803
2. LG B8

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. None

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. LG SK9500 - Currently £300 cashback. Only viable if you do not want to go OLED and need wide viewing angles. Warning this TV should not be considered better than an average HDR performer. It is only slightly better with HDR than much cheaper TVs with IPS panels such as the Sony XF85 series and Panasonic FX750 listed above.

Up to and around £1500
There is usually little to no need to spend more than the OLEDs already mentioned above, but I have listed these unless people are willing to spend the extra for a sake of a little better picture processing. Picture quality will be almost indistinguishable to the cheaper OLEDs.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FZ802
2. LG C8 - Better picture processing than the B8.
3. Sony AF8 - If you want an OLED and the best value built in sound.

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samsung Q9FN

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. None

Money no object/specialist needs
These TVs should only be considered if you want the very best, accepting that you are paying not for noticeably better performance, but for things like better design and sound built in.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FZ952 - Designated soundbar compared to the FZ802.
2. LG E8 - Better built in speakers compared to the C8.
3. Sony AF9 - Better picture processing compared to the AF8, more powerful built in sound.
4. Philips OLED903 - Built in Bowers and Wilkins sound system compared to the OLED803.

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

65"
​

This size is becoming more and more popular, especially with the advent of UHD and needing to view very close to a large television to get the most out of it.

Beware, much like 55", even with a 65" is really going to be on the small side to make the most of UHD content. For UHD to look better, look at larger TV sizes or view very close up to the screen.

This is the first size that introduces the money-no-object TVs like the Samsung 8K Q900 and the premium OLEDs.

£600 - £800
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Hisense A6xxx Series
2. Hisense U7A - This improves on the above model range with a wide colour gamut, an extra HDMI 1.4 port and a 120hz panel. It is worth spending more on this model if you want to tweak motion settings for less stutter, blur and judder. It is also the cheapest TV that can display film content without 3:2 pulldown applied. Get this model if you want the best HDR but cannot afford to spend more.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. LG UK6xxx Series - These seem the only well priced 65" models with IPS panels. Not the best choice for picture quality but the only good value option at this size and price.

£1000- £1500
Most people don't need TVs this good, overall they build on TVs above with better connectivity, superior anti reflection filters, brighter SDR for very bright rooms and brighter HDR. This is where we start to see TVs where HDR starts to improve. 120hz panels are most common at this budget also which means these are the first TVs that allow better control of motion using both motion interpolation and dark frame insertion. Picture processing is generally improved a little compared to cheaper TVs so you can expect slightly better upscaling.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF9005 - If you want decent HDR, the cheapest TV that comes with it.
2. Samsung NU80xx series or if priced only a little extra, the Q6FN - A cheaper option but you will have to settle for average rather than poor HDR. Good gaming features. More info compared to Hisense U7A here.
3. Samsung Q7FN - I would only suggest this model instead of the Sony XF9005 if you wanted to retain bright HDR and also wanted a better TV overall for gaming

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FX750 - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel.
2. Sony XF85xx or XF87xx series - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel.

£1500 - £2500
This is where HDR starts to get really good and the minimum I would go for if you want good HDR. In the case of the OLEDs listed, even those not using much HDR content will see the most gains in picture quality all-around due to OLED tech.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. LG B8
2. LG C8 - More powerful picture processing than the B8.
3. Panasonic FZ802

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samsung Q9FN

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. LG SK9500 - Currently £500 cashback. Only viable if you do not want to go OLED and need wide viewing angles. Warning this TV should not be considered better than an average HDR performer. It is only slightly better with HDR than much cheaper TVs with IPS panels such as the Sony XF85 series and Panasonic FX750 listed above.

Money no object/specialist needs
These TVs should only be considered if you want the very best, accepting that you are paying not for noticeably better performance, but for things like better design and sound built in.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. Sony AF8 - Best built in sound for minimal price.
2. Panasonic FZ952 - Built in soundbar compared to the FZ802.
3. LG E8 - Built in speakers compared to the C8 and B8.
4. Sony AF9 - Better picture processing compared to the AF8, more powerful built in sound.
5. Philips OLED903 - Built in Bowers & Wilkins sound system compared to the OLED803
6. LG G8 - Built in soundbar for superior sound compared to B8, C8 and E8.
7. LG W8 - Wallpaper mounting on wall, built in soundbar/connectivity module below TV.

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samsung Q900R - As if 4k pixels were enough?

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. None

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

49/50"
​

For those with limited space or who don't want a massive TV dominating the room. Getting more detail from UHD at this size is largely pointless unless you want to view very, very close. At this size, whilst there is not as much choice as larger sizes, it is the first time you can find TVs that perform better than poor with HDR compared to 40/43" or smaller.

£350 - £500
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular broadcast TV, catchup TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Hisense A6xxx Series - You can find this for as little as £350 and there is little reason to spend more at this size.
2. Philips 6xx3 Series - An alternative if you don't want to buy Hisense. Cheapest in range is £350
   
3. Samsung NU70xx series - The next best value to the Hisense or Philips £350 models, around £50 more for the same specs. Warning do not buy the 49" version
4. Samsung NU74xx series - Builds on the NU70xx model with a wide colour gamut but costs £150 more than suggestion 1 and 2 and generally isn't a worthwhile increase in price. .
5. Hisense U7A - This improves on the A6 model range with a wide colour gamut, an extra HDMI 1.4 port but its more expensive and probably not worth it for most people at this size.
6. LG UK6xxx series - Warning only 50" - the 49" models are not using VA panels. About £100-£150 more than the suggestion 1 and 2 but identical in specs. You could get this model if you want LGs great smart TV.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FX700 - Wide colour gamut.
2. Sony XF70xx Series - No Wide colour gamut, generally the same price as the Panasonic.

600-750
Most people don't need TVs this good, overall they build on TVs above with better connectivity, superior anti reflection filters, brighter SDR for very bright rooms and brighter HDR. This is where we start to see TVs where HDR starts to improve. 120hz panels are most common at this budget also which means these are the first TVs that allow better control of motion using both motion interpolation and dark frame insertion. Picture processing is generally improved a little compared to cheaper TVs so you can expect slightly better upscaling.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF85xx or XF87xx series - Average HDR. 120hz panel for better motion controls.
2. Samsung NU80xx series - Average HDR, not as good value as other sizes as it uses only a 60hz panel.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FX750 - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel. Average local dimming and RGB panel makes it better value than the LG below.
2. LG SK8500 - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel. Recommended if you want to pay less and get better smart TV at the cost of a small amount of picture quality.

£750 - £1000
This is where HDR starts to get really good and the minimum I would go for if you want decent HDR. TVs at this price range also have superior picture processing if its important you pay the most to get the best upscaling possible.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF9005 - If you want decent HDR its the cheapest and smallest TV that comes with it.

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

40/43"
​

For those with limited space or who don't want a massive TV dominating the room. Getting more detail from UHD at this size requires your eye glued to the screen, but on the other hand poorer quality content won't look as bad on a smaller TV.

£350 - £500
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular broadcast TV, catchup TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Hisense A6xxx Series - You can find these for as little as £300 and there is little reason to spend more at this size.
2. Samsung NU71xx series - The next best value to the Hisense.
3. Samsung NU74xx series - Builds on the NU70xx model with a wide colour gamut. Warning IPS variants of the 43" spotted, beware. If you do end up with a VA panel it is good value compared to the others. *New* - possible way to tell panel type pre purchase. Thanks too @desinho

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Panasonic FX600
2. Sony XF7xxx Series

£500 - £750
Most people don't need TVs this good, overall they build on the TVs above with better connectivity, superior anti reflection filters, brighter SDR, important very bright rooms and brighter HDR, important for HDR highlights. This is where we start to see TVs where HDR starts to improve. 120hz panels are common at this cost and size which means these are the first TVs that allow better control of motion using both motion interpolation and dark frame insertion. Picture processing is generally improved a little compared to cheaper TVs so you can expect slightly better upscaling.
LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF85xx or XF87xx series - Average HDR. 120hz panel for better motion controls.

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

60"​

There are a couple of decent value options at this niche size this year.

£500 - 800
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.
LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.
​

Spoiler

1. LG UK6xxx Series

​

£800 - £1000
There is only one TV in this price range and it represents good value, it builds on the LG above with a 120hz panel and wide colour gamut for slightly better HDR. It will be better with motion and HDR as a result, but still not a great HDR TV.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.
​

Spoiler

1. Sony XF83xx series

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

70"
There are a couple of decent value options at this niche size this year.​

£800-1000
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.
LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. LG UK6xxx Series

£1000-1500
There is only one TV in this price range and it represents good value, it builds on the LG above with a 120hz panel and wide colour gamut for slightly better HDR. It will be better with motion and HDR as a result, but still not a great HDR TV.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF83xx series

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

75"
​

This size is becoming more and more popular, especially with the advent of UHD and needing to view very close to a large television to get the most out of it.

Beware, much like 55", even with a 65" is really going to be on the small side to make the most of UHD content. For UHD to look better, look at larger TV sizes or view very close up to the screen.

This is the first size that introduces the money-no-object TVs like the Samsung 8K Q900 and the premium OLEDs.

£1000-1500
Don't knock TVs at this price range. They are good enough for most people and especially suited for those wanting the best picture quality for non-HDR content such as regular TV, FHD Blu-Rays and the non HDR games consoles. If you are a basic user with a limited budget and you don't need all the bells or whistles these TVs are 90% as good as the higher end ones with most content.

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Hisense A6xxx Series - The upcoming A6600 will be £1200 come Black Friday.
2. Hisense U7A - This improves on the above model range with a wide colour gamut, an extra HDMI 1.4 port and a 120hz panel. It is worth spending more on this model if you want to tweak motion settings for less stutter, blur and judder. It is also the cheapest TV that can display film content without 3:2 pulldown applied. Get this model if you want the best HDR but cannot afford to spend more.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. LG UK6xxx Series - These seem the only well priced 75" models with IPS panels. Not the best choice for picture quality but the only good value option at this size and price if you need an IPS panel for as little money as possible.

£1500 - £2000
Most people don't need TVs this good, overall they build on TVs above with better connectivity, superior anti reflection filters, brighter SDR for very bright rooms and brighter HDR. This is where we start to see TVs where HDR starts to improve. 120hz panels are most common at this budget also which means these are the first TVs that allow better control of motion using both motion interpolation and dark frame insertion. Picture processing is generally improved a little compared to cheaper TVs so you can expect slightly better upscaling.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samsung NU80xx series - A cheaper option but you will have to settle for average rather than poor HDR. Good gaming features.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF85xx or XF87xx series - Poor HDR due to limited peak brightness and IPS panel.
2. LG SK8100 - Same price and spec than the Sony above, a good alternative if you want better smart TV but its picture quality won't be as good overall.

£2000 - £3000
This is where HDR starts to get better and the minimum I would go for if you want decent HDR.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Sony XF9005 - If you want decent HDR, the cheapest TV that comes with it.
2. Panasonic FX750 - Generally more expensive than the Sony and probably not as good with HDR either but at 75" this TV is the only size in the range to have a VA panel.
3. Samsung Q7FN - I would only suggest this model instead of the Sony XF9005 if you wanted to retain bright HDR and also wanted a better TV overall for gaming

£4000 - £8000
This is where HDR starts to get really good and the minimum I would go for if you want good HDR. In the case of the OLEDs listed, even people not using much HDR content will see the most gains in picture quality all-around due to OLED tech.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. LG C8 - Better picture processor than the B8.
2. Sony A1 - Carried on from 2017, similar performance to the Sony AF8 but retains the good built in sound from the AF9.

LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samsung Q9FN - Fantastic HDR, this TV compared to the competition is very well priced.
2. Samung Q900R - The first 8K TV. A step up in performance all round from the Q9FN but almost twice as expensive.

LCD TVs with wide viewing angles, but worse contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. None

Money no object/specialist needs
These TVs should only be considered if you want the very best, accepting that you are paying not for noticeably better performance, but for things like better design and sound built in.
OLEDs

Spoiler

1. Panasonic EZ1000 - Panasonic have carried over their flagship from last year. Compared to the FZ952 it has a designated soundbar rather than tuned speakers and in the case of the FZ802, poor built in sound.
2. LG W8 - Wallpaper TV with designated soundbar/connection hub beneath.
3. Lowe Bild 7 - Very expensive, very little reason to spend this much unless you want the best of the best.

82-85"
​

The largest TVs you can buy, only mid range and higher end LCD models are available at this size.

£2500-4000
Most people don't need TVs this good, overall they build on TVs above with better connectivity, superior anti reflection filters, brighter SDR for very bright rooms and brighter HDR. This is where we start to see TVs where HDR starts to improve. 120hz panels are most common at this budget also which means these are the first TVs that allow better control of motion using both motion interpolation and dark frame insertion. Picture processing is generally improved a little compared to cheaper TVs so you can expect slightly better upscaling.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samsung NU80xx series
2. Samsung Q6FN - Hard to justify the small gains in colour this TV has compared to the much cheaper NU8000.
3. Sony XF85xx series - Same performing as the NU8000 but a lot more expensive for a larger screen. (85")

Money no object/specialist needs
These TVs should only be considered if you want the very best, accepting that you are paying not for noticeably better performance, but for things like better design and sound built in.
LCD TVs with narrow viewing angles, but better contrast, blacks and dark room/scene performance.

Spoiler

1. Samung Q900R - The first 8K TV.

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"

 

[Dodgexander]

24 - 32"​

At this size there are no UHD models, only HD and FHD models of questionable quality.
My advice at this size would be to pick up a Sony model such as the WE series from 2017 or Samsung M series model from 2017 also. In 2018 both these manufacturers stopped making smart models at these sizes.

But in all honesty, it won't be possible to get a high quality TV at this size anymore so your best bet otherwise would be to buy from a reputable retailer so you can return your purchase if you are unhappy.

Jump to OP
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

FAQ
​

Q. What do all the xxxxxx's mean in the model numbers?
A. Manufacturers like to confuse and mislead consumers. The x's put in the model numbers represent different variation of the same performing models. A few examples:

Hisense A6 series - Anything beginning with A6 like the A6200, A6250, A6500 etc are all the same TV as far as picture quality goes. There will be silly differences such as aesthetic design, stand design and or advance features that mean very little to nothing.

Sony (most models) - eg the Sony XF85xx /XF87xx series is a way to represent all models like the XF8505, XF8596 or XF8796.

Samsung - NU8002 is the same as NU8000 and NU7470 is the same as NU7400.

I can't keep track of all the model number differences and it will make for messy reading. Hence the xxx's.

Q. I want a TV to use for gaming, what are your recommendations?
A. My recommendations here are for gaming also, I do not have specific recommendations for gaming anymore since all TVs now come with low enough input lag for most people. Yes input lag now on TVs is not the issue it once was.

Q. What is a wide colour gamut you speak of?
A. A wide colour gamut can give you a few % more colours with SDR and even more noticeable better colour with HDR.

Q. To get the most from an UHD TV, how close should I view?
Q. How big of a TV should I buy?
Q. I have purchased an UHD TV and I am disappointed by how it handles the content I watch. Why is this?
A. How close you view depends what you want from a TV and what content you use. If you want to notice UHD and get more of an improvement with higher quality sources then you need to view closer to a larger TV.
If you still use the TV to watch content that isn't high quality yet then you are better viewing farther from a smaller TV.
Not only that but never before have we had such a wide variety of source quality differences. More upscaling needed on UHD models = worse picture quality.
More differences, included recommended charts can be viewed here: TV Viewing Distance Guide

Should I upgrade? - UHD vs FHD

Please read the articles before deciding to spend money on a new UHD model.

Q. How will I know which model is better than my old TV?
A. Some people think that new UHD models will make everything look better than your old TV. This is not always the case. A new TV will look better if you feed it good, high quality material and you view close enough to notice a difference. It is not going to look good if you are still viewing content that isn't high quality yet. In many cases its simply better keeping the TV you have. More detail here: Should I upgrade? - UHD vs FHD

Q. My old Plasma is on its way out, which model is comparable?
A. Most people will be happy with any TV on this list coming from a Plasma. Depending whether you need wide viewing angles or prefer better blacks you will need to choose the panel type you want from an LCD TV or go OLED. More detail here: Thinking of replacing your plasma? and differences in motion of all technology here: Explanation and Best Buys for the Motion sensitive

Q. I want good motion processing from a TV. Which model should I go for.
A. That is too general of a question, motion has too many topics to place under one parameter. I have written about differences in motion before here: Explanation and Best Buys for the Motion sensitive

Q. I saw X TV in the shop and Y TV that wasn't in your guide looked better.
A. Never trust what you see in the shop.

Q. How can I tell which panel type a TV comes with?
A. You may never know for sure, certainly before you buy a TV anyway.
There is nothing stopping a manufacturer for changing the panel type it ships on a TV mid production or in the case of some manufactures like Samsung, use different panels on the same TV, sometimes differing per region. Here is the best way you can tell.

Q. What about direct lit or edge lit TVs and local dimming?
A. Until you reach high end models (Sony XF9005 or higher) direct lighting is not a consideration to really think about when purchasing a TV. The talk you read online about direct lit being better is outdated and/or based on the TV also having good local dimming. There may be direct lit versions of cheaper TVs and edge lit versions but since neither will employ any form of usable local dimming the picture quality will be no better on the direct lit model. Of course direct lit TVs are also thicker aesthetically.

Q. What about local dimming?
A. Unless you are looking at higher end LCDs such as the Panasonic FX750 or Sony XF9005 or above local dimming is a specification that is best glossed over. Manufacturers will mention cheaper TVs have local dimming (Samsung, LG, Hisense) but their local dimming does not work well at all and is often best turned off.

Q. What about manufacturer hz spec? I saw one TV with 100hz and another with a 1000hz.
A. Much the same as with local dimming above, manufacturers give incorrect specs and try and mislead consumers when it comes to hz refresh rate. Do not be fooled on their websites or shop websites by higher hz figures, all it means is one TV can use its software to make motion appear smoother and unless you know you are going to use heavy motion interpolation it is best ignored. Most people do not use this feature at all, especially if they do not watch sport. If you can find a spec called panel hz instead and it comes as 50,60,100 or 120hz this is legitimate and a useful spec to look out for. For example the 50" Hisense U7A has a 60hz panel whilst the 55" version has 120hz. With Sony TVs typically they will have dozens of model numbers all with the same picture quality but different quoted fake hz, they all have the same panel refresh rate.

Q. But what about OLED Burn in and its risk?
A. OLED Burn In Risk

Q. Should I buy a high end OLED eg the LG C8 or a high end LCD eg the Samsung Q9FN?
A. You need to decide which technology favours you the best. I would always recommend OLED to someone unless they felt they will be affected by screen burn or they in particular want much more brighter HDR compared to the more refined gains of OLED.

Q. When is the best time to buy a TV?
A. The best time to buy a TV

Q. Why does my new UHD TV look so poor?
A. Should I upgrade? - UHD vs FHD

Q. How do I know the viewing angles I need from a TV?
A. Its quite simple to calculate. A LCD TV with a VA panel looks fine up to 30 degrees to either side of the centre of the TV. If you need a wider viewing angle than that you need an LCD with an IPS panel.
Q. But what about OLED viewing angles?
A. OLEDs have the best viewing angles, looking even better than IPS LCDs at a much tighter angle.

More detail and an example image here.

Q. But what about true 10bit panels? The 10 in HDR10 means I need a high bit-depth TV for good HDR right?
A. No it doesn't. Bit rate is about last criteria to look for when it comes to finding a good HDR TV. There are far more important factors to look out for. More detail here.

Q. I want to understand more about this "banding, vertical banding, dirty screen effect and clouding" I keep hearing about.
Q. I want my TV to be free of "banding, vertical banding, dirty screen effect and clouding"
A. Read this post.

Q. Why have you left certain models out of your guide completely? Surely there must be more choice?
Q. Is x model that isn't in your guide good value?
A. If a model isn't in the guide it is because I believe it to be too expensive to be good value. That doesn't mean it won't be the best value for you, someone may have specific needs that make one TV, no matter how poor in value good for their uses. If you have specific needs that you think aren't met by the guide, please let us know.

Q. Dodge, why do you not recommend UHD gaming?
A. UHD gaming can make for a worse experience than FHD, see: Should I upgrade? - UHD vs FHD

Q. I can't believe you are telling me my older TV is better than a new one? I want to upgrade! I am fed up of having to wind up my TV every evening before I watch it.
A. Believe it or not there have been some cracking TVs over the years, especially in the Plasma and LCD era of only a few years back. Some TVs are just hard acts to follow and will beat many on this list today for quality.

Jump to OP
Jump to 24-32"
Jump to 40-43"
Jump to 49-50"
Jump to 55"
Jump to 60"
Jump to 65"
Jump to 70"
Jump to 75-85"

 

[Dodgexander]

Regional Model number differences
​

Panasonic - FX750 in UK is FXW780 in EU. FX700 in UK is FXW72x in EU. FX600 in UK is FXM60x in EU and so on. FZ952 is FZ950 in EU and FZ802 is FZ800 in EU.

Sony - Similar if not the same model numbers in EU. Rest of World Sony have simple model numbers.
XF70 series = X750F
XF80 series = X800F
XF83 series = X830F
XF85/ XF87 series = X850F
XF90 series = X900F

Hisense - Most countries seem to use the same format as the UK. In North America their models are very different and its hard to know which compare.

Samsung - NU74xx series isn't available in North America. They only have the NU71/NU73 series which is the same minus wide colour gamut.

LG - They have similar begining model numbers for each line of models but overall the numbering can differ entirely. Anything UK6xxx in Europe will be the same as in North America and vice versa. Same with anything SK8xxx.

 

[Dodgexander]

Notes for gamers
​

There are gaming features on certain TV models which may make them more appealing than others which I decided to keep separately.

Honorable mentions for gaming models:

LGs LCDs - Whilst these TVs are usually awful performers with HDR, they also have very, very low input lag. If you don't care about an IPS LCD panel and you don't care for HDR performance then these have the lowest input lag there is. Although its questionable that anything less than as much as 40ms input lag is noticeable. To most people anyway.

LGs OLEDs can also accept 120hz signal at 1080p for PC gamers.

Samsung -
Steam Link support for PC via their smart TV.
Their 55"+ NU8000 and higher LCDs have several good features for gamers:
Variable Refresh rate in the Form of Freesync. Freesync is beneficial mostly to PC gamers with AMD graphics cards. It can also be used on the Xbox One and One X but at low frame rates, with questionable gains.
Motion interpolation and dark frame insertion can also be used on Samsung TVs to reduce blur and stutter when gaming, a first from a TV manufacturer.
PC gamers also will enjoy 1440p @ 120hz and 1080p at 120hz support.
Input lag is also very low this year at between 13-15ms on most models.
Please be warned. The 40, 43, 49 or 50" Samsung TVs do not include a 120hz panel so they do not have Freesync or 120hz support.

Sony - Still very good for gamers.
Their XF85 series and over support 120hz at 1080p which is good for PC gamers.
Input lag is on the higher side, but shouldn't be an issue for most gamers.

With the advent of HDR, it becomes often a choice between better HDR and a better overall TV for gaming. This can be the case where the Sony XF9005 is suggested ahead of the Samsung NU8000, Q6FN or Q7FN but if you prefer lower input lag and worse HDR then you should pick Samsung instead.

Lower tier/cheaper models

Gamers with a tight budget may prefer IPS panels compared to VA as response times will be faster at lower budgets. Generally though most people are happy with VA panels.

HDR

HDR on smaller and or cheaper TVs is very poor currently, do not expect to have a good HDR gaming experience until you hit models like the Samsung NU8000 or higher.

You may wish to search your game options to lower the level of HDR to cope if you have adverse effects, otherwise its best to disable HDR completely to get the best experience. Note though, not all games support this.

Those with higher end, brighter TVs can raise or lower the HDR brightness setting to see which looks best on their own TVs. Note though, not all games support this.

 

[zeppelino]

Great stuff - Samsung 49” models don’t offer VRR et al so may want to clarify that in the gaming section.

 

[Dodgexander]

Great stuff - Samsung 49” models don’t offer VRR et al so may want to clarify that in the gaming section.

Thanks. I am sure there are some more mistakes too. Its a shame that Samsung ship different panels on some of their TVs. It makes it hard to recommend their lower end models.

 

[Analysis]

Well Done Dodge!!

 

[TheFridge]

Nice guide,
I am in the market for a tv this week.

Was thinking the Philips 6703 in a 65 inch.. Any thoughts

 

[xylus]

Is the B8 worth it for £1299? Or should I keep waiting for it to drop possibly in next few weeks?

 

[Dodgexander]

Was thinking the Philips 6703 in a 65 inch.. Any thoughts

Its not in the guide for the same reason as many TVs aren't, we don't know if its VA or IPS. The 6 series all Philips say is "most" TVs are VA panels. Whilst the 7 series they say all are VA but those are more expensive and tend not to be good value compared to the competition. If you do not care so much and are willing to take the gamble on the panel, go for it.

Is the B8 worth it for £1299? Or should I keep waiting for it to drop possibly in next few weeks?

Its certainly worth it but I wouldn't buy without a guarantee for refunding the difference if it does drop. Check with the retailer or wait until Black Friday.

 

[Analysis]

Nice guide,
I am in the market for a tv this week.

Was thinking the Philips 6703 in a 65 inch.. Any thoughts

* Note regarding LCD panel types. Philips has informed us that "90% of the 7 series models will use VA LCD" but that some screen sizes will use IPS LCD. We have not been able to confirm which model sizes this applies to. Philips has also informed us that the 6 series models will both VA and IPS LCD panels.

Same as Samsung but they use their own PLS/ADS panels within the same model.

50" 7303 has a Samsung or AUO panel, not Innolux.

More info here:Philips телевизори 2018 - Страница 7

 

[superleeds27]

Thanks for this @Dodgexander

Managed to grab the 50" MU7400 from Amazon Warehouse for £399 earlier today!

 

[dashonfire]

This guide is great but I still can't decide haha. What would you recommend between the LG 49SK8500PLA, Samsung UE49NU8070 and the Sony Bravia KD49XF8505BU? They're between £680-700 and I just can't figure out which would give me the best picture quality/performance.

 

[Dodgexander]

This guide is great but I still can't decide haha. What would you recommend between the LG 49SK8500PLA, Samsung UE49NU8070 and the Sony Bravia KD49XF8505BU? They're between £680-700 and I just can't figure out which would give me the best picture quality/performance.

First narrow down which panel type you want. It will make it easier: Which panel type should I choose for my TV?

Afterwards choose whether you will benefit from the Sony's 120hz panel compared to the Samsung's 60hz one: Explanation and Best Buys for the Motion sensitive 2018 Edition

Samsung 49NU8000 - 60hz VA panel.
LG 49SK8500 - 120hz IPS panel.
Sony 49XF8505 - 120hz VA panel.

 

[sparkym5]

Thanks Dodgeander nice read, was looking at the Oleds but too bothered about the screen burn further down the line of use, have read enough to form the opinion that it's the risk you take with oleds and an individuals choice.
Looking at your 55" list I noticed the LG 55SK9500PLA which is a TV I've considered, especially since LG now have a £300 cash-back offer on this TV, for Promotional products for purchases made between 31.10.2018 and 15.01.2019 LG Oled TVs Cashback Promotion bringing it down to a £1099, it sure seems maybe a good buy for those that don't need the worry of oled screen burn and all bells and whistles of the more high end TV's.
Thoughts Dodgeander

 

[Dodgexander]

Thanks Dodgeander nice read, was looking at the Oleds but too bothered about the screen burn further down the line of use, have read enough to form the opinion that it's the risk you take with oleds and an individuals choice.
Looking at your 55" list I noticed the LG 55SK9500PLA which is a TV I've considered, especially since LG now have a £300 cash-back offer on this TV, for Promotional products for purchases made between 31.10.2018 and 15.01.2019 LG Oled TVs Cashback Promotion bringing it down to a £1099, it sure seems maybe a good buy for those that don't need the worry of oled screen burn and all bells and whistles of the more high end TV's.
Thoughts Dodgeander

Hmm its £200 cashback (300 is the 65" version) and it is in my best buy recommendation but its in their as a last resort if someone needs wider viewing angles from a TV and can't go OLED.

So therefore I would recommend it in those conditions. If you feel you cannot go OLED and you need slightly wider viewing angles than the more traditional choices from LCDs at this price and size which use VA panels.

 

[sparkym5]

Hmm its £200 cashback (300 is the 65" version) and it is in my best buy recommendation but its in their as a last resort if someone needs wider viewing angles from a TV and can't go OLED.

So therefore I would recommend it in those conditions. If you feel you cannot go OLED and you need slightly wider viewing angles than the more traditional choices from LCDs at this price and size which use VA panels.

Thanks for the input, I gave you the more upto date offers so you could maybe update your list if you so wished, unless I'm missing something, as far as I can see the LG promotion from the link I posted clearly states:

Promotional products for purchases made between 31.10.2018 and 15.01.2019

Qualifying Product Models
Cashback Promotional Period
55SK9500
£ 300

31.10.2018-15.01.2019
65SK9500
£ 500
31.10.2018-15.01.2019

Crampton and Moore shows £300 cashback LG 55SK9500P 55" SUPER UHD TV | Crampton and Moore as do Currys LG 55SK9500PLA 55" Smart 4K Ultra HD HDR LED TV - Bronze
Crampton and Moore LG 65SK9500P 65" SUPER UHD TV £500 cashback LG 65SK9500P 65" SUPER UHD TV | Crampton and Moore

Kind Regards