Amazing black levels. Overall picture quality is fantastic. For gaming, it supports Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. There are numerous well-calibrated picture modes and you have different size variants to choose from. These are just a few features you’ll get from the LG CX OLED TV. However, the high-end price might stifle a few of you from shelling out that much money for an OLED TV when you can get other well-performing models for much less. So how good exactly is this television? Is it worth every penny? Find out in our review below.
Thanks to a stunning 4K display that operates at a speedy 120Hz, the LG CX OLED TV is the best next-gen alternative if you’re planning on buying a PS5 or Xbox Series X soon or currently have one sitting in your living room. Thanks to Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync support, it’s also ideal and fantastic for PC gaming. An Ultra HD screen like this will surely take your gaming sessions to the next level.
However, keep in mind that you’ll need a more solid gaming workstation if you’re considering the 65-inch model.
Furthermore, LG’s class-leading CX OLED TV, with a 120Hz refresh rate, is ideal for fast-paced 4K gaming, such as first-person shooters and racing games, where screen tearing is a thing of the past. As you’d expect from OLED technology, the black levels are outstanding, and LG has nailed it with a design that makes sure the CX line totally turns off individual pixels when used in the lowest settings.
Most OLED TVs are out of reach and unreasonably expensive for the typical customer, and the CX is no different. Despite its amazing features, its high-end price might just be the deal-breaker for some. However, if you can afford it, I highly recommend giving this OLED TV a solid consideration.
Apart from that, LG has also done an excellent job of focusing on the shortcomings in earlier models. The Alpha a9 Gen 3 Processor has undergone significant improvements that have resolved any faults from its predecessors while also improving the way faces are portrayed by the chip’s processing. The end result? An engrossing cinematic performance that treats movies and TV series with the respect they deserve.
Features & Specifications
Brand: LG
Sizes Available: 77″, 65″, 55″, and 48″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: OLED
Input Lag: 13ms
Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
HDR Compatibility: HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG
Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Vudu, Google TV
Gaming Features: G-SYNC, FreeSync, VRR, HGiG
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
Check Out LG’s Product Preview Of The LG CX OLED Below.
Honestly, LG doesn’t put in a lot of effort changing up their TVs’ designs. However, I do believe in the saying don’t fix what isn’t broken. With that being said, the LG CX OLED TV, just like its predecessors, still retains the same minimalistic and premium aesthetic it has over the years with little to no alterations at all.
When viewed from the side, the panel on the CX is still quite thin, approximately a quarter-inch deep, with the thicker part at the bottom jutting out another 1.75 inches. But facing it from the front, you won’t really notice it that much. The inputs, power supply, speakers, and other depth-eating TV components are all housed in this part.
The painting itself has a black frame around the top and sides that is less than a half-inch thick. Then there’s a little more below that, but nothing else apart from that. No logo or anything at all.
The screen is affixed to one of the centrally positioned metallic sheet stands that have been seen on previous C-series versions. This is wonderfully made and constructed, although it appears a little hefty in comparison to the remarkable slimness found elsewhere.
The CX has a lot of connections, and they’re all well-defined, especially when it comes to HDMIs. There are four, each capable of 4K up to 120Hz in 10-bit HDR with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. Something to keep in mind if you’re planning to play with the next generation of video game consoles. Overall, the LG CX is pure TV minimalism and is a nice addition to any home.
Picture Quality
When it comes to LG’s OLED TVs, there’s no doubt that they’re truly one of the best out there. When you watch something in 4K with High Dynamic Range for the first time, you’ll truly understand the power of LG’s incredible screen technology.
Because the CX supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision HDR, you’ll get the most out of every homemade show on Netflix, Amazon, and elsewhere, as well as the most recently released movies.
However, regardless of whether format you view, the CX’s contrast and colors are always astounding. Super vivid reds, greens, and blues contrast with incredibly realistic shadows to provide some of the most stunning images you’ll ever see at home.
On top of that, there are plenty of additional picture modes to choose from and try, but if you’re more interested in viewing TV shows and movies than gaming, I’d recommend trying Cinema mode or Filmmaker mode.
Smart Features
The LG CX uses LG’s WebOS interface for its smart features, just like the rest of LG’s OLED TV portfolio. And this is a relatively good thing. With its rows of icons directing to numerous entertainment sources, the simple, no-frills home screen is instantly available, easy to use, and modify to your preference.
When you select one of the primary content apps, the second tier of icons appears, with immediate access to the highlighted app’s shows or films. This feature, however, is only available in apps that have worked with LG to allow it.
It’s also worth noting that LG is a leader in speech recognition, with the CX supporting LG’s ThinQ AI platform, as well as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. All of them are also supported, eliminating the requirement for an external listening device.
In terms of supported apps, you’ll discover Disney+ and Apple TV+, two relatively recent entries to the streaming world, other streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime are also readily available.
Gaming Features
Another feature I love with the CX is that it’s gamer-friendly. This OLED TV supports Nvidia G-sync, which ensures that games run smoothly on PCs with Nvidia graphics cards. For users with AMD graphics cards, the CX now supports AMD FreeSync. Honestly, it’s just great to see both major standards represented.
In addition to that, it has only 13 milliseconds of input lag in Game Mode. And, unlike some LCD TVs, activating the game settings has no discernible impact on color and contrast performance. Automatic low latency mode switching and varied refresh rates are also supported. Hopefully, the PS5, Xbox Series X, and next-generation PCs will be able to take advantage of the CX’s 4K/120Hz/4:4:4/HDR capabilities.
Our Least Favorite Thing
Risk Of Burn In
Apart from its ridiculously high price tag, the CX doesn’t come in with a lot of flaws. Which is something to be expected when you’re paying a lot of money for a TV. Of course, like with any OLED TV, you should be cautious about what you watch on it in order to avoid permanent image retention or also known as burn-in.
That said, try to avoid watching content with bright logos or static bright picture elements for long periods of time at a time. Most recently released OLED TVs nowadays have put in the necessary measures to avoid such damages, and that includes LG’s OLED TVs. However, it’s best not to risk it.
In A Nutshell
Now that we’ve finished discussing the things we liked and disliked about the LG CX, here’s a narrowed-down list of the good and the bad with this particular OLED TV.
Pros
Incredible visual and image quality.
Speedy response times.
Beautiful design.
Cons
Risk of permanent burn in if you’re viewing the same content over and over.
Expensive.
Our Final Verdict
All in all, the LG CX OLED TV is truly a fantastic high-end television. It gives the same excellent picture quality as the other TV models from the same lineup. Individual pixels can be turned off, resulting in a near-infinite contrast ratio with perfect deep blacks and no blooming around bright objects, making this TV perfect for dark room viewing.
However, the LG CX OLED also does well in bright surroundings thanks to its excellent reflection control as well as streaming HDR content due to its wide color gamut. Not to mention, variable refresh rate (VRR) compatibility, a 120Hz panel, fast response time, and HDMI 2.1 ports are just a few of its amazing gaming-friendly features.
So this begs the question, is this TV worth its price? Definitely. But is it worth burning a hole in your wallet for? I’d have to say no. There are definitely other OLED TV models in the market that performs just the same (or almost the same) without the hefty price tag.
If you’re on a budget, you’re better off looking for something within your price range. But if money is not an issue, then this is definitely a TV worth considering.
Have you already bought the LG CX OLED TV? Was our review helpful? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, insights, or questions to ask. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
If you want to get the most out of your favorite video game, investing in a larger, brighter television with deeper blacks will do exactly just that. The latest generation of consoles will operate with almost any TV. All you really need is an HDMI port. However, you might want to consider upgrading your current TV to an OLED screen to really bring out the potential of the latest next-gen visuals and capabilities included in these new game consoles. Apart from that, although most TVs now have Ultra HD 4K resolution, only the newer TV models have adapted certain gaming features. So if you don’t already have these things, just keep scrolling to see our top picks for the best OLED TV for gaming this 2021.
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Why Choose OLED?
If you’ve been buying TVs for quite some time now, you must already be aware of the different types of screens available in the market. From your standard LED screens to the superior OLEDs, and even with Samsung’s new QLED panels, there’s plenty of options for your to choose from. However, for this article, I’ll be giving you a few reasons why you should for an OLED screen.
What Is OLED?
For starters, OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode. This is an LED-based technology in which the light is generated by organic molecules. These organic LEDs are utilized to make what is widely regarded as the best display panels in the world.
In addition to that, the pixels in an OLED screen produce their own light by using an electric current to produce their own compounds. Because OLED TV pixels produce both the picture and their own light, they may reach true darkness without any current flowing through them. This is what enables OLED screens to have more accurate black levels.
You get precise edges on images and deep blacks with the ability to turn off each individual LED because there is no illumination streaming through.
Price Concerns
While some of you might argue that OLED panels are more expensive (which is true) than any other type of screen, when it comes to picture quality, you’ll find that it is worth every penny. Especially when you’re really aiming for the best visuals to amp up your overall gaming experience.
Not to mention, OLED TVs nowadays, have also seen a significant decrease from their original price points. When compared to your standard LED panels, you’ll find that the price gap between these two screens is quite close to each other already.
Benefits Of An OLED Panel
So, what distinguishes OLED TVs from the rest? OLED pixels, in a nutshell, are self-emitting. This means you can easily enjoy independent pixel-dimming without the use of a backlight, resulting in a captivating, cinematic viewing experience. When it comes to high contrast, the splashy haloing seen on LED screens are no longer present.
Images appear to have more depth because the shadows have more detail. Apart from that, OLED panels have become commonplace in Hollywood mastering suites and live sports production facilities due to their characteristics. In fact, OLED is a favorite among filmmakers.
And if I haven’t already mentioned it, OLED panels also offer broader viewing angles compared to LED screens. As a result, OLED TVs will provide everyone in your household with a great view of whatever content you’re streaming. With that in mind, choosing between OLED and LED panels should be no problem.
OLED TVs are also better at handling motion than LED LCD TVs. Fast-paced action appears crisper and less smudgy, resulting in ultra-fine details during your gaming sessions. However, there are certain restrictions. The most notable disadvantage of OLED is that it is susceptible to picture retention, often known as burn-in. A static image placed on the panel for hours can leave a lasting shadow.
The best OLED TV manufacturers, thankfully, recognize this and implement a variety of countermeasures to ensure that this does not occur. The problem is combated using a variety of solutions, including pixel rotation and screensavers. All in all, an OLED panel just really offers better features than the average LED. Without a doubt, the best TV technology today is OLED.
Our Top Recommendations Of The Best OLED TV For Gaming 2021
1. LG OLED C1 Series
Overview
When it comes to OLED panels, it doesn’t get much better than the LG OLED C1 Series. But what makes it so good that it ranks first on our list? Well, it’s fantastic for gaming because it has a plethora of features and a high visual quality that will undoubtedly elevate your gaming experience.
It comes in a range of sizes, including a 48-inch one that you can definitely fit as a dedicated PC display in your gaming nook. If you can’t utilize your living room as a personal gaming zone but still want a large super HD screen, this is the option for you. Not to mention, the C1’s OLED displays feature a near-infinite contrast ratio, resulting in deep and inky blacks, making them ideal for darkroom gaming.
Additionally, the C1 supports G-SYNC to minimize screen tearing and is natively compatible with FreeSync and HDMI Forum variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies. Any form of action appears sharp and smooth as a result of the quick response time and minimized input latency.
If that isn’t enough to persuade you, the PS5 and Xbox Series X also have four HDMI 2.1 inputs, which means you should be able to play 4K games at 120 frames per second without any issues. With four 4K 120Hz HDMI connections and a dedicated Game Optimizer control panel, the C1 takes gaming as seriously as you do.
Overall, the C1 Series is amazing, both in native 4K and up-scaled HD, when you add premium image quality, which leans more heavily on AI than we’ve seen in any TV before. With deep blacks, vivid colors, and almost three-dimensional levels of detail, this is an OLED worth getting.
The LG CX OLED TVs are the greatest next-gen alternative if you’re planning on buying a PS5 or Xbox Series X soon or already have one in your living room, thanks to a gorgeous 4K display that operates at a blistering 120Hz. It’s also great for PC gaming, thanks to Nvidia G-Sync support. If you’re looking at the 65-inch model, you’ll want to have a more sturdy gaming workstation.
With a 120Hz refresh rate, LG’s class-leading OLED TV is suited for fast-paced 4K gaming like first-person shooters and racing titles, where screen tearing is a thing of the past. The black levels are excellent, as you’d expect from OLED technology, and LG has nailed it with a design that sees the CX line completely turn off individual pixels when utilized in the darkest settings.
We’re used to most OLED TVs being out of reach and prohibitively expensive for the average consumer, but the LG CX OLED’s price ranges are startlingly affordable, especially considering all of the praise they’ve earned since its release.
In terms of value, the 55-inch model finds the sweet spot when it comes to pricing while still being a nice size for most homes. Personally, I think you won’t find a better deal anywhere.
The LG G1 is the first TV in their lineup to ever include the new “OLED evo” panel. According to LG, this is a next-generation screen that can achieve higher brightness levels than prior LG TVs while still maintaining OLED’s legendary deep black levels. As a result, the G1 Series offers superior HDR performance than probably any other TV you’ll see in the market.
Apart from the superior visuals the G1 delivers, it also has a slew of gaming-friendly capabilities, starting with four HDMI 2.1 connectors that are all capable of 4K 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM. When you combine that with LG’s support for both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD Freesync Premium, you basically have every gaming feature you could ever want in the comfort of your living room.
More importantly, input lag is also relatively low. When used in regular Game Mode, you can play with just around 12.4ms, while using the Boost Mode will give you 9.4ms. In addition to that, LG’s new Game Optimizer also provides you complete control over how things operate.
With Dolby Vision HDR compatibility, you’ll get the most out of Xbox games that support it, while Dolby Atmos support for 3D audio is available in compatible games and movies.
However, keep in mind that if you leave interface elements on-screen for lengthy periods of time without changing them, this new OLED panel may be prone to burn-in. While it’s rare, the possibility still exists. For the most part, this isn’t a problem, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re a hardcore gamer.
Features & Specifications
Brand: LG
Sizes Available: 55, 65, and 77 inches
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: OLED evo
Input Lag: 12.4ms
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
HDR Compatibility: Dolby Vision , HDR10, HLG
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes
Pros
Brighter and sharper screen with the new OLED evo panel.
The BX Series is LG’s entry-level OLED TV in their whole lineup, offering excellent performance and great value for your money. It features only two v2.1 HDMI inputs, and it employs a step-down third-generation Alpha 7 image processor rather than the latest Alpha 9 chip. Despite that, the BX Series is still pretty much ahead of most of its competition in the market.
Personally, I don’t find either of these sacrifices a huge deal-breaker. You’re still covered for both the PS5 and Xbox Series X with two 4K 120FPS ports, and the remaining HDMIs support 4K 60Hz, which isn’t too bad. There’s also eARC support for usage with a speaker or home theater system, VRR compatibility with NVIDIA G-SYNC, as well as ALLM support. Overall, the BX Series is still a force to be reckoned with.
When it comes to visuals, the image quality on this TV is excellent and stunning. It may lack the sophistication of the latest Alpha 9 processor, but it won’t let you down when it comes to binge-watching your favorite TV shows or playing real-world games.
Not to mention, LG’s webOS smart platform is similarly unaffected, with Netflix, Twitch, Now TV, Prime Video, and Disney+ among the streaming apps available. Although, this TV comes with no Freeview Play on UK models. So catch-up TV options are somewhat limited.
Features & Specifications
Brand: LG
Sizes Available: 55 and 65 inches
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: OLED
Input Lag: 14.6ms (1080/60)
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
HDR Compatibility: Dolby Vision , HDR10, HLG
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes
Pros
Amazing picture quality.
Budget-friendly and great value for the money.
Gaming capabilities are still pretty good.
Cons
Lacks Freeview Play and catch-up TV app are quite limited.
This somewhat tiny Sony TV is the only 48-inch OLED to actually compete with LG’s smallest CX model. It lands a spot on our list because of its exceptional picture performance, class-leading Acoustic Surface Audio system, and attractive narrow bezel design.
The brand’s renowned X1 Ultimate picture processor, which is noted for its realistic HDR photos, provides terrific image clarity. A Pixel Contrast Booster is used in conjunction with this to improve color and contrast in bright regions. Motion is handled by Sony’s superb X-Motion Clarity image interpolation algorithm, which we believe makes the screen a smart choice for sports enthusiasts as well.
HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision are all supported. While there isn’t any Dolby Vision IQ or Filmmaker mode onboard, Sony’s Ambient Optimization technology achieves a pretty comparable result.
An integrated sensor also improves picture and sound quality by automatically adjusting picture brightness in response to ambient light levels in the room. It can also detect objects in your room that absorb or reflect sound.
Speaking of sound performance, the Acoustic Surface Audio transforms the screen into a speaker by vibrating the panel imperceptibly with stereo actuators. Deep bass is delivered by a subwoofer incorporated into the back of the TV. All in all, the sound system performs admirably, providing crisp, clear, and strong audio, so you won’t need to invest in a soundbar if you buy this.
When it comes to TVs, a screen that’s good for watching TV and movies should also be good for playing games. But there are a few gaming-specific qualities to look for if you’re seeking the best TV for gaming available in the market. To help you out in that aspect, below are some features you should keep an eye out for as you go shopping for your next OLED TV.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is the amount of time it takes for an image on your TV to refresh. It’s important to note that this is not the same as response times. Most TVs available in the market can only support 60Hz to 120Hz in general. At the time of writing, no TV has a refresh rate higher than that. So if you want to play at 144Hz or even 240Hz, you should look into dedicated 4K gaming monitors instead.
For example, a TV with a 60Hz refresh rate refreshes the image on the screen 60 times per second, providing for some smoothness. Furthermore, if the TV refreshes at 120Hz, the image will be twice as fluid, as evidenced by how sleek and smooth the motion seems on screen.
Many TV game modes nowadays artificially raise refresh rates by downgrading other display settings, such as lowering the picture’s overall brightness. It’s not a bad thing but if you find an issue with this, it’s best to keep an eye out for those types of televisions.
VRR
VRR (variable refresh rate) is a brand-new feature that you’ll be astonished wasn’t available before. A fixed refresh rate is included on all current televisions. However, the issue is that a new console may not be capable of sending a new image.
For example, if you’re playing a game that’s fast-paced and has a lot of things going and moving around, sometimes the console can have trouble rendering everything in the time provided.
Because the TV still requires something, the console may transmit a replica of the previous image, resulting in juddering on screen, or it may send a partially new image, resulting in the image appearing to be torn from the top while revealing the new page below.
VRR allows the TV to delay receiving a new frame from the console. As a result, gaming performance will improve, with a smoother action and less tearing.
Response Times
When it comes to gaming televisions, you’ll hear a lot about the response time of the panel. This is the speed at which the colors on your television shift, such as from black to white and back to black.
Most gaming TVs have response times faster than we can perceive unless you’re very precise and demand ultra-fast response times for your games. As a result, unless it’s absolutely necessary, it has little effect on your overall game experience. Enthusiasts and hardcore gamers, on the other hand, will demand the fastest response time feasible.
HDR Capabilities
HDR is an abbreviation for High Dynamic Range. It is a color-processing method used in games, movies, TV shows, and other streaming entertainment. This has also become common on practically all 4K televisions available.
On the other hand, HDR isn’t simply about contrast. It’s also about emphasizing color differences (and blacks), and game designers and developers can use it to bring out more details in their work. HDR is most commonly used to improve a photograph’s color by making colors more bright and thereby enhancing contrast.
If you can distinguish highly similar color tones, you can make graphics crisper and the colors pop a lot more. For HDR, a minimum brightness of 400 nits is required. Though, in recent years, the latest TV models have been able to achieve better brightness.
Overall, having HDR capability improves picture quality significantly and is one of the most enticing aspects of today’s latest TVs. It is, however, somewhat complicated.
Dolby Vision and HDR10 are the two major HDR formats supported by today’s TVs. The majority of gaming TVs that support HDR10 are available on the market. Meanwhile, Dolby Vision is only supported by a small number of high-end televisions. Honestly, HDR10 is all you need and should demand when it comes to gaming. In fact, HDR10 is supported with the PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X.
HDMI
This is the cable that connects your OLED TV to the majority of the devices you’ll be using it with. High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the acronym for High Definition Multimedia Interface. An HDMI 1.4 cable is required for a 4K signal, but most contemporary HDMIs are 2.0 connectors that can transport 4K signals at 60 frames per second.
Because the majority of modern console games don’t support 4K at 60 frames per second, as long as you have a 2.0 cable and a 2.0 port on your TV, you’ll be fine. Furthermore, HDMI cables are divided into two categories: regular and high speed. As long as you have a High-Speed cable, you should be good.
With that in mind, that isn’t to argue that all cables are made equal, but you also shouldn’t have to pay much more than you have to. Simply said, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on gold-plated HDMI cables to have a good picture if you don’t care about aesthetics. Any normal High-Speed cable should work just fine.
ALLM
Game mode disables most of the TV’s image-enhancing functions, lowering input lag. We’ll go over input lag in more detail in just a bit, but the function to look for once you go shopping is either Auto Low Latency Mode or Auto Game Mode.
The term tends to vary according to the manufacturer, but the concept is the same. When the TV detects a signal from the console, it immediately switches to game mode. This eliminates the need to locate your TV’s remote in order to activate its game mode. It’s not a big thing, but it’s quite convenient to have.
Input Lag
Input lag is the duration of which the TV can produce a picture. If this is set too high, you’ll notice a delay between you pressing a button on the controller and seeing the action happen in the game or screen. Timing is quite crucial in a lot of games, especially in first-person shooter games such as PUBG. So a TV with high input lag will seriously hamper your performance and might ruin your gaming session altogether.
The good news is that most current TVs feature input lag that isn’t noticeable by most people. The days of input latency of 100 milliseconds or more are largely over, at least while the game mode feature is enabled. So long as your TV has a game mode, you should be good.
That being said, once you’re hunting for your next OLED TV, find the ones that feature low input lags.
4K or 8K?
Nowadays, 4K TVs for gaming are becoming more readily available. As a result, the prices of Ultra HD 4K TVs are also lowering in costs. With 4K gaming TVs, your gaming setup will surely be transformed into a cinematic paradise in no time. The best 4K TVs in the market today can also easily compete with the industry’s best gaming monitors in terms of visuals and fidelity.
Slow response times are a thing of the past and are no longer an issue, especially with the more high-end models. Apart from the razor-sharp visuals that are a significant selling point for 4K gaming TVs, many models also now have faster refresh rates, low latency game modes, and better HDR capabilities. All of these result in outstanding imagery to truly take your gaming sessions to the next level.
But what about 8K screens? In principle, the newest consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X can handle 8K, but neither had it activated at launch. Higher frame rates appear to be the priority in the short future, with higher resolutions hopefully coming in later. Even still, native 8K gaming appears improbable.
Both consoles are widely believed to lack the processing ability to run blockbuster games at that resolution. However, we may see games that dynamically scale above 4K before being broadcast as an 8K signal, similar to how the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X have always handled 4K on games.
That said, we don’t believe it’s necessary for you to get an 8K TV right now. They’re way too expensive and a 4K TV is much more suitable for gaming and will save you more money as well. By the time 8K gaming becomes a big worry sometime in the future, 8K TVs will almost certainly be substantially more inexpensive.
Conclusion
Overall, looking for the best gaming TV in 2021 entails not only balancing picture quality and pricing but also considering gaming-specific features that are compatible with next-generation consoles to ensure you purchase something that is future-proof. With that in mind, I hope our list of the best OLED TV for gaming this 2021 helped you out in finding the perfect gaming OLED TV for you.
Have you already bought your own OLED TV for gaming? Did your pick make it into our list? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, insights, or questions to ask. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
There are a plethora of reasons why using a television to play games can improve your overall gaming experience. Not only are they larger than most PC monitors, but the top 4K TVs can now compete in terms of fidelity and functionality with the greatest gaming monitors. Plus, there’s the added benefit of advanced technology like OLED panels, which have yet to make an impact on your average PC monitor. I could go on and on, but if you’d like to find out more, just keep scrolling to read our 4K TV Buying Guide For Gaming this 2021.
On the surface, it may seem like TVs and PC monitors have a lot in common, but the specifications built into their systems are what separate them. When compared to PC monitors, TVs will typically have substantially faster refresh rates and better pixel density. On top of that, they also usually have reduced input lags and quicker response times.
If that doesn’t convince you, the best 4K TVs for gaming on the market today are getting increasingly affordable, with a plethora of excellent models available at reasonable costs. As a result, it’s difficult to argue not to use a 4K TV as your gaming monitor. Of course, there’s the issue of space and size but 4K TVs also come in at a variety of sizes to fit your specific needs.
Furthermore, in terms of PC gaming, your options for the gorgeous OLED panel technology are confined to high-end gaming laptops or the best gaming TVs in the market. Since the release of the Nvidia RTX 3080 and AMD RX 6800 XT, 4K gaming has been completely accessible. It would be a shame if you missed out on this opportunity.
So Why Is A TV Better For Gaming?
Aside from the crisp and sharp images that are the main selling point of 4K TVs, many of these devices also boast quicker refresh rates, low-latency game modes, as well as HDR options in order to deliver excellent imagery compared to your standard PC monitors.
TVs are also often larger and more concerned with certain aspects like color reproduction and viewing pleasure than with pixel density or responsiveness. Thanks to display technologies targeted at the typical living room settings, they also tend to be considerably better for viewing at wide angles.
Because of the introduction of OLED technology, several gaming-specific TVs now have exceptionally low input latency and pixel response times, which reduces the amount of motion blur and ghosting that can occur. Furthermore, with refresh rates on 4K TVs easily hitting 120hz, some TVs are now able to match the responsiveness of even the best PC monitors in the market.
Why Choose 4K?
This is the highest image resolution your TV can display and will provide you with crazy sharp and detailed pictures regardless of the content you’re streaming or playing. A 4K TV or a 4K ready TV, can display images with a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. It’s also referred to as UHD or Ultra HD by some brands and manufacturers.
Both the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X are capable of exporting a 4K stream to your 4K TV, in case you weren’t aware. Almost every gaming television now that has been released recently supports 4K. Of course, there is also the appeal of an 8K TV, but I find those still pretty out of reach in terms of pricing.
Now that we have discussed why you should upgrade to a 4K TV, here are some terms and certain specifications you might want to consider and keep in mind as you look for your next ultra HD screen.
Types Of Screens
As you go shopping, you’ll come across different types of display panels in your hunt for your 4K TV: LED, OLED, and the most recent technology from Samsung, QLED. While they may share similarities in their names, they couldn’t be any more different and distinct in terms of panel technology.
LED
Independent image creating and lighting layers on LCD/LED panels provide the final image you see. The pixels (LCD) that form the actual visuals you see in this interaction are illuminated by the backlight (LED). To achieve the same level of pure black as LED displays, TV manufacturers have launched completely array backlighting systems, which divide the backlighting layer into zones known as “local dimming zones.”
Keep in mind when looking at this feature that the more local dimming zones a television has, the better. LED TVs, on the other hand, can achieve substantially higher peak brightness levels, but they have narrower viewing angles and muddier blacks than OLED TVs since the display can’t totally turn off their backlight.
OLED
Another type of TV panel that is classified as an emissive screen technology is the Organic Light Emitting Diode or OLED. LCD and plasma panels, on the other hand, require back-lighting or edge-lighting to produce images on the screen, but OLED displays do not. Backlit or edge-lit TVs have LEDs that are lit in groups or lines to generate a picture.
This means that the pixels in an OLED screen produce their own light by using an electric current to produce their own compounds. Because OLED TV pixels produce both the picture and their own light, they may reach true darkness without any current flowing through them. In a nutshell, if there is no energy, there is no light.
On OLED TVs, each LED on the screen can be individually lit and switched on or off to generate a picture. This is what enables OLED screens to have more accurate black levels. You get precise edges on images and deep blacks with the ability to turn off each individual LED because there is no illumination streaming through.
Aside from that, OLED displays are typically dimmer than LCD displays, and picture retention (also known as burn-in) issues might arise from time to time. This problem occurs when static things on the screen, such as a network logo or a health indicator, get permanently imprinted on the screen.
Samsung introduced QLED panels, which is a unique technology that other companies have adopted. The full abbreviation for QLED is Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode. When utilized to generate a picture on a screen, quantum dots are light-emitting particles that can be far brighter than LEDs or QLEDs. As a result, QLED televisions feature more vibrant colors and contrast than other panel types.
The display is either backlit or edge-lit, just like ordinary 4K TVs, which can make a considerable difference in black levels. In addition to offering brilliant colors, back-lit QLEDs can produce clean images and blacks that rival even the most premium OLEDs on the market. These QLED TVs, in essence, have an extra layer of quantum dots on the back that increases the brightness and color range of normal LED panels.
In this approach, quantum dots act as an enhancement filter, resulting in brighter and purer light than LED panels. This is why Samsung TVs with QLED panels can attain peak brightness levels that are thousands or even tens of thousands of times higher than OLED panels in the industry. As a result, they’re fantastic for gaming in your well-lit living room.
HDR is an abbreviation for High Dynamic Range. It’s a color-processing method used in games, movies, TV shows, and other streaming entertainment. This has also become common on practically all 4K televisions available.
On the other hand, HDR isn’t simply about contrast. It’s also about emphasizing color differences and how game designers and developers can use them to bring out more details in their work. If you can distinguish highly similar color tones, you can make graphics crisper and the colors pop.
For HDR, a minimum brightness of 400 nits is required. Though, in recent years, 4K TVs have been able to achieve better brightness. Overall, having HDR capability improves picture quality significantly and is one of the most enticing aspects of 4K TVs.
HDR10 and Dolby Vision are the two major HDR formats supported by today’s 4K TVs. The majority of 4K TVs that support HDR10 are available on the market. Meanwhile, Dolby Vision is only supported by a small number of high-end televisions. HDR10 is all you need and should demand when it comes to gaming. In fact, HDR10 is supported with the PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X.
If you have a standalone 4K Blu-Ray player or a streaming media box that supports Dolby Vision, a Dolby Vision TV is only useful. However, you will be unable to play HDR games on your chosen console.
Response Times & Refresh Rates
When it comes to 4K gaming televisions, you’ll hear a lot about the reaction speed of the panel. This is the speed at which the colors on your television shift, such as from black to white and back to black. Most 4K TVs have response times faster than we can perceive unless you’re very precise and demand fast response times for your games.
As a result, unless it’s absolutely necessary, it has little effect on your overall game experience. Purist gamers, on the other hand, will demand the fastest response time feasible.
When it comes to refresh rates, most TVs can only support 60Hz up to 120Hz. Currently, no 4K TV has a refresh rate higher than that. If you want to play at 144Hz or even 240Hz, you might want to look into dedicated 4K gaming monitors instead.
Keep In Mind…
While a 4K gaming TV sounds really cool and can easily replace your current PC gaming monitor, you also need to make sure that your PC is capable of handling this type of resolution. Due to the substantially better visual quality, 4K screens are naturally more demanding on your PC’s resources. In turn, this might take a toll on your machine if it’s not powerful enough.
If your PC is up to par, 4K on a larger screen will be a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for you and your PC. If not, you may end up having to play at a lower resolution, such as 1440p or 1080p. Because your gaming TV may not be capable of handling the upscaling required. Due to the size difference between a TV and a monitor, the image might be blurrier than planned.
Conclusion
Overall, the best gaming experience depends on your own personal standards. Both 4K TVs and dedicated PC monitors offer advantages as well as their own drawbacks. But if you’ve been looking to upgrade your display to a 4K TV, then I hope this guide was able to convince you on why you should go for it.
Have you already bought a 4K TV for your gaming? Which one did you buy? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any insights and experiences to share or suggestions and questions to ask. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
There are relatively few reasons not to get an OLED panel if you’re spending more than a thousand dollars on television. Despite being one of the most well-known brands on the market, Samsung has yet to develop its own OLED television. In fact, they claim that their Neo QLED displays are brighter than OLEDs from the likes of LG, Sony, and other manufacturers in the industry. With that in mind, let’s see if their flagship 4K QLED TV, the Samsung QN90A, is everything it claims to be.
The Samsung QN90A QLED is pretty much unbeatable when it comes to 4k televisions with QLED displays. Unlike OLED TVs like the LG C1, QLED TVs do not suffer from irreversible burn-in, so you may use it to stream the same video over and over again without worrying about static spoiling your screen.
What Makes This Neo QLED TV Better?
Apart from that, the QN90A is also an upgrade from its predecessors because it employs Mini LED as its backlighting, it is an advanced form of their standard QLED series. This enables the TV to become exceptionally bright, allowing it to prevent glare or bring out highlights in HDR content, as well as giving it additional control over its full-array local dimming feature.
Mini LED backlights the display with millions of tiny LEDs, and with Samsung’s impressive innovations, this type of technology is already approaching OLED-level dark performance without the limits imposed by OLED’s weakness to brightness.
As a result, this new evolution of LED TVs can be brighter than OLED TVs, making them ideal for vibrant colors and bright environments. And this is exactly the advantage the QN90A has over OLED displays.
However, viewing in extremely dark areas is probably the only time you’ll notice the QLED TV isn’t nearly as black as an OLED display. Turn down the lights and watch a movie with a lot of darker tones; you’ll see a hint of light blooming surrounding brighter subjects. This tends to occur when light from the backlight leaks around the sides of the lighted subject.
Sizes, Ports, Gaming, & More
Furthermore, with the exception of the 43-inch variant, which lacks VRR and is limited to a 60Hz panel, the Samsung QN90A comes in a range of sizes, all of which should function similarly regardless of which size you choose.
The QN90A also has one HDMI 2.1 input, letting you fully leverage the capabilities of new-gen consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5. This television also includes one of Samsung’s One Connect Boxes, which connects to the set by fiber optic cable and provides four HDMI 2.1 connectors, guaranteeing that anyone with several gaming devices is properly catered for.
Samsung’s smart TV platform, Tizen, offers smart connectivity and a diverse range of apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, and Now, as well as all of the traditional catch-up TV services.
Furthermore, gamers will absolutely love the QN90A’s rapid response time for smooth motions, as well as the little input lag, which makes gaming feel immediate and responsive. It also supports both FreeSync and G-SYNC for reduced screen tearing.
Overall, the QN90A’s image quality is superb, thanks to an AI-powered Neo Quantum 4K CPU, and its Intelligent Mode optimizes all sources, making it a comfortable screen to watch whatever you choose.
Features & Specifications
Sizes Available: 43″, 50″, 55″, 65″, 75″, and 85″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: Neo QLED (Mini LED)
Input Lag: 10.1ms (1080/60)
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
HDR Compatibility: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes.
Supported Streaming Services: Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, YouTube, ESPN
Extra Special Features: Quantum Matrix Technology; Neo Quantum Processor 4K; Quantum HDR 32X, Object Tracking Sound+; Motion Xcelerator Turbo+
Check Out Samsung’s Official Introduction Of The QN90A Below.
What We Love About The Samsung QN90A
Design
Even though every TV appears the same to me, I’ll still give Samsung extra plus points in managing to give the QN90A a really high-end and premium feel. The stand is the most evident design upgrade when compared to its predecessors. It is centered and with a tiny footprint and it looks cleaner and sleeker than other TVs that are held up by two legs.
In comparison to comparable 4K TVs, I prefer Samsung’s Mini LED model’s inch-thick, practically bezel-less panel. Personally, I find that having a TV so impossibly thin seems sleek until you try to get it out of the box, mount it on a wall, or put it on the provided stand. If you have a heavier touch, you know the feeling. However, with the QN90A, I didn’t have to worry about my fingers shattering the display.
Even then, the bezels on the Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV are nearly undetectable from afar, blurring the line between the panel and the chassis. Only a little protrusion on the lower right corner of the screen, which displays a Samsung logo and conceals a multi-purpose button, breaks up the TV’s pristine front view.
Except for the power cable connector, all connections on the QN90A are on the right side of the back panel. Four HDMI ports (one with eARC), an optical audio output, two USB ports, an Ethernet port, a 3.5mm EX-Link (RS-232) port, and an antenna/cable connection are all located on the right side of the device and are easily accessible. Keep in mind there are no analog video inputs on the model.
Functionality
Samsung’s smart TV interface is simple, straightforward, and is powered by Samsung’s very own Tizen.
Voice control is built-in, and you can use Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung’s own AI, Bixby, for assistance. When you push the mic button on the clicker, whichever option you select will be available. You can issue commands hands-free with Amazon and Bixby by just calling out “Alexa” or saying “Hi, Bixby” as their wake words. Also, unlike last year, the mic is housed in the TV itself, not the remote.
It also functions admirably as a gaming monitor. Variable refresh rates are supported by Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync on the QN90A, which can reach 120 frames per second at 4K resolution. If you have one of Sony’s or Microsoft’s newer consoles, games will look and feel more fluid and responsive as a result.
Display Quality
The Samsung QN90A offers the most stunning pictures of any non-OLED TV I’ve ever seen on the market. On top of that, it’s also the best 4K TV to be used in a well-lit environment thanks to its unparalleled brightness. It’s extremely bright, and even with the most difficult HDR content, it can easily provide deep, inky black levels with minimal blooming.
The QN90A is powered by a series of tiny light cells that use mini-LED lights to provide dramatic contrast and backlight control. This and the Neo Quantum Processor 4K all work together to deliver a 4K-optimized image for your viewing pleasure.
Our Least Favorite Things
No Dolby Vision
While I have previously mentioned that the QN90A’s HDR capabilities are fantastic, they do emphasize one of my concerns with Samsung TVs. The overall HDR performance is excellent, but the HDR formats are also somewhat limited. Samsung does not support Dolby Vision, the finest HDR standard available, instead opting for its own HDR10+ technology. However, this isn’t a huge dealbreaker to me, but something you might want to keep in mind.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have finished discussing the things we liked and disliked about the Samsung QN90A, here’s a narrowed-down list of the good and the bad with Samsung’s flagship 4K QLED TV.
Pros
Impressive mini-LED backlighting.
Unparalleled brightness.
Contrast ratio is excellent.
Wide viewing angles.
Excellent for gaming as well.
Cons
Doesn’t support Dolby Atmos.
Slight blooming can be noticed when used in darker rooms.
Our Final Verdict
All in all, the Samsung QN90A is a fantastic television for any use and it’s definitely up there with one of the best 4K TVs you can buy in the market, period. Its VA panel has a high native contrast ratio along with unmatched brightness and excellent local dimming for displaying really deep blacks. If you wish to use it in a well-lit room, it becomes bright enough to prevent glare and has outstanding reflection handling. On top of that, gamers will also really appreciate its VRR compatibility, reduced input lag, and quick response time, which will provide a very satisfactory gaming experience.
At the end of the day, it’s your decision whether you prefer a QLED TV or an OLED panel. If you watch in brightly lit rooms, then your best bet is going with a QLED TV. However, if you mostly watch content in darker rooms, then OLED might be a better option for you.
Have you already bought the Samsung QN90A? Or are you still weighing your options on other 4K TVs in the market? Let me know in the comments section below if you have insights, suggestions to share, or questions to ask. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
When it comes to the best 4K TVs in the market, LG is undoubtedly on top of the game. In fact, they’re the only company in the world capable of producing large-scale organic light-emitting diode displays that is sure to make any room come alive. You’ll even find popular brands such as Sony using LG panels for their own products. So for today, we’ll be giving the spotlight on one of LG’s best 4K TVs, the C1 series. Let’s find out in our dedicated LG OLED C1 review if this particular TV lives up to its hype.
If you’re looking for a high-quality OLED panel, the LG OLED C1 Series is the best option out there. Sure, there are more budget-friendly models but if you want the best of the best, then you don’t need to look elsewhere.
Not only is the C1 Series from LG terrific for streaming any kind of content, but it’s also fantastic for gaming thanks to its plethora of gaming-friendly features and high visual quality that will undoubtedly elevate your gaming experience.
With four 4K 120Hz HDMI connections and a dedicated Game Optimizer control panel, the C1 takes gaming as seriously as you do. It’s great, both in native 4K and up-scaled HD, when you add premium image quality, which leans more heavily on AI than we’ve seen before. With deep blacks, vivid colors, and almost three-dimensional levels of detail, this is an OLED panel worth appreciating.
Not to mention, the C1’s OLED displays feature a near-infinite contrast ratio, resulting in deep and inky blacks, making them ideal for darkroom gaming. Additionally, the C1 also supports G-Sync to minimize screen tearing and is natively compatible with FreeSync and HDMI Forum variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies.
Any sort of action appears crisp and smooth thanks to its quick response time and decreased input lag. If that isn’t enough to persuade you, the PS5 and Xbox Series X also have four HDMI 2.1 inputs which the C1 fortunately has, which means you should be able to play 4K games at 120 frames per second without any issues.
You’ll also discover Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa built into the system, both of which can be summoned using buttons on your remote, as well as a near-complete list of streaming services including Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and plenty others.
Features & Specifications
Sizes Available: 83″, 77″, 65″, 55″, and 48″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: OLED
Processor: a9 Gen4 AI Processor 4K
Input Lag: 12.6ms (1080/60)
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
HDR Compatibility: Dolby Vision , HDR10, HLG
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes
Extra Special Features: Filmmaker Mode, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, Magic Explorer
Check Out LG’s Preview Of Their Newest Feature, The Game Optimizer Below.
Because they don’t have to go through an additional step of processing the backlighting, OLED TVs are simply much better for gaming than their other types of display panels. This single step in the processing chain alone reduces input lag. In case you’re unaware, this is the time it takes for your television to register your joystick motions.
LG’s team has spent years improving this new OLED’s input lag time to levels that are comparable to or better than most gaming monitors. If you’re not convinced, a simple search on Google will show you actual test results from various other reviews of the C1’s input lags.
The C1 also supports technology from video card makers such as Nvidia and AMD that keep gaming frame rates in line with the refresh rate of the screen, resulting in incredibly smooth gameplay. Plus, the OLED panel’s deeper blacks give even the most demanding games an incredible amount of depth that is beyond anything I’ve ever seen in your standard PC monitors.
However, there is one problem that you might want to keep in mind. Graphics cards capable of powering games on a 4K TV like this are really hard to come by right now. For 4K 120-Hz gaming, you can buy an Xbox Series X or a Playstation 5, but you might also have a hard time finding the latest consoles right now. Supplies are low while demands are high due to numerous lockdowns caused by the pandemic.
But if you do get the perfect graphics card or console, the C1 will provide you with an almost unrivaled gaming experience possible. On a larger screen, the 4K resolution just simply looks so much better and can be more appreciated. Smaller displays, on the other hand, the pixel density is quite impossible to perceive with the naked eye.
Design
Personally, when it comes to design, most televisions nowadays almost look identical to each other. So it can be quite hard to judge them. Not to mention, no one really buys a TV for its looks. As I said, they all look the same. People buy these devices for what they can offer in its system. However, you can’t deny how attractive and sleek the LG OLED C1 is in terms of the overall design.
The front of the TV is occupied by the OLED display, with no more than a millimeter or two between the picture and the display’s edge and a long silver stand holding it upright. The screen would be the only thing visible if you were to mount the C1, but it still looks wonderful on its stand, which is surprisingly sturdy and stops the TV from swaying or wobbling.
When it comes to ports, the C1 offers four full-spec HDMI 2.1 connectors with 4K at 144Hz compatibility, as well as three USB ports, an RF tuner, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optical digital audio output.
Overall, the LG C1 feels exceptionally well-made. It has a premium, durable feel to it thanks to the metal on the back and in the stand. While you might feel that there is some flex around the inputs, it feels extremely solid overall. There are no visible flaws or faults, and the build quality should satisfy the majority of users.
Visual Quality
Despite the OLED Evo panel missing from the C1 Series, there seems to be no issue at all in terms of overall brightness in this particular display. In fact, the pictures looked stunning even in well-lit rooms. Though the reflected glare did eat into the deeper black levels from time to time, the screen’s brightness more than compensated for it.
The C1 is able to achieve this because it has a built-in light sensor that analyzes ambient light levels and adjusts the picture accordingly. When the TV detects that there is more light in the room, it also automatically increases the screen’s overall brightness.
When it comes to contrast and brightness, the C1 supports most major HDR formats, including HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. However, HDR10+ is excluded.
The newly introduced Game Optimizer setting option, which allows you to easily alter the White Stabilizer, Black Stabilizer, and VRR, is also worth highlighting. When the OLED detects an incoming game signal over any of the four HDMI 2.1 connections, it supports ALLM, as well as a Prevent Input Delay feature that reduces input latency to under 10ms.
All in all, the C1 is ideal for anyone who loves to game and watch a lot of content in their living rooms.
Our Least Favorite Things
Risk Of Burn Ins
Despite being one of the best 4K TVs in the market, unfortunately, the C1 isn’t immune to irreversible burn-in like most OLED TVs. However, don’t let this stop you from considering this impressive television. Just keep in mind that this shouldn’t an issue if you’re someone who watches a wide variety of content.
In addition to that, the LG C1 Series also included a few features that can assist in lessening the risk of burn-ins in case you’re concerned. Pixel Cleaning, Screen Move, and Adjust Logo Brightness are some of those options. To know more, you can also visit LG’s site for more information.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have discussed the things we liked and disliked about the LG OLED C1 Series, here’s a narrowed-down list of the good and the bad with this 4K gaming TV.
Pros
Excellent visual quality.
120Hz refresh rate.
Includes four HDMI 2.1 inputs.
Near infinite contrast ratio.
Perfect deep blacks.
Cons
Doesn’t support HDR10+.
Risk of irreversible burn-ins.
Our Final Verdict
All in all, LG has made a few yet significant changes in the newest generation of their C1 Series. With four separate HDMI 2.1 connectors, it’s ready for the PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and whatever next-gen consoles you’re planning to game on. On top of that, gamers like you will also enjoy the newly added Game Optimizer menu, which allows you to modify brightness, contrast, and VRR whenever you please.
Have you already bought the LG OLED C1 Series? How was your experience? Did our review help convince you? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any insights, questions, or suggestions to share regarding this review. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
This year, the greatest gaming TVs you’ll find in the market are looking better than ever. Prices are gradually lowering, so now is an excellent time to treat yourself to a new screen upgrade. Newer models from major companies are on the way, so prices on current models will drop even further, saving you some costs. To help you out in which ones to pick, you’ll find below our top choices for the best 4K TV for gaming in 2021. Just keep on scrolling to find out more!
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Why Should You Get A 4K TV For Gaming?
Nowadays, the best 4K TVs for gaming in the market are becoming increasingly inexpensive, and we’re still a long way from recommending the exorbitantly priced 8K TVs. Of course, no one is stopping you from getting yourself an 8K TV if you have the budget but that will be out of this article’s content and is a discussion saved for another day.
Not to mention, if you’re in the market for a TV right now, there’s almost no excuse not to go with a 4K model. Almost every TV manufacturer and company are putting their best effort into 4K TVs, which are now available in nearly every size and price range. When it comes to gaming, several 4K TVs are excellent choices.
Benefits Of A 4K TV For Gaming
Your gaming setup will instantly be transformed into a cinematic paradise with the greatest gaming TVs on hand. In terms of fidelity, the best 4K TVs can even compete with the top gaming monitors in the industry. Slow response times on TVs are no longer an issue, especially on the top panels.
Aside from the razor-sharp images that are a major selling point for 4K TVs, many also boast quicker refresh rates, low-latency game modes, and HDR options that deliver spectacular imagery to really boost and level up your overall gaming experience.
Additionally, this list will include TVs for a variety of budgets, all of which are sure to make your game collection proud and stand out. It all depends on how many future-proofing features you require and, of course, the size of your new gaming television.
Regardless if you’re sticking with the current generation of consoles we have now today or seeking to upgrade in the future, the TVs listed here will surely withstand the newer consoles and still work as great. Even if your current hardware can’t readily handle 4K gaming, investing in a 4K TV for gaming will not only prepare you for the future, but you’ll also be able to watch and stream content in ultra-high definition.
What does 4K mean?
This is the maximum image resolution that your TV can show. A 4K TV or 4K ready TV is one that can display images in the resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. Some broadcasters and manufacturers also refer to it as UHD or Ultra HD. If you’re unaware, both the PS4 Pro and Xbox One X is capable of exporting a 4K feed to your 4K TV. Nowadays, almost every modern gaming television is 4K ready.
Our Top Recommendations Of The Best 4K TV For Gaming 2021
1. LG OLED C1 Series
Overview
In the OLED category, you can’t really get any better than the LG OLED C1 Series. But why is it so excellent that it takes the top spot on our list? Well, it’s ideal for gaming because it comes with a lot of functions and has an excellent visual quality that is sure to boost your gaming experience to the next level.
It comes in a variety of sizes, including a 48-inch model that you can probably squeeze in your gaming nook as a dedicated PC monitor. If you can’t really use your living room as your personal gaming space but still want a large ultra HD screen.
Not to mention, the C1’s OLED panels have a near-infinite contrast ratio that will give you impressive black levels, so blacks truly appear deep and inky, making them ideal for some darkroom gaming. On top of that, the C1 is also compatible with FreeSync and HDMI Forum variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies natively, as well as being able to support G-SYNC to eliminate screen tearing.
Because of the quick response time and reduced input lag, any type of motion ultimately appears crisp and smooth. If that’s not enough to convince you, the PS5 and Xbox Series X include four HDMI 2.1 inputs, so you should be able to play 4K games at 120 frames per second smoothly and without encountering any problem whatsoever.
Overall, the C1 takes gaming as seriously as you do, with four 4K 120Hz HDMI inputs and a dedicated Game Optimizer control panel. When you add in premium image quality, which relies more heavily on AI than we’ve seen before, it’s incredible, both in native 4K and up-scaled HD. This is an OLED worth admiring, with deep blacks, bright colors, and almost three-dimensional levels of detail.
When it comes to 4k gaming televisions with QLED panels, the Samsung QN90A QLED is impossible to beat. Unlike OLED TVs like the C1 from LG, QLED TVs like this one do not suffer from irreversible burn-in, so you may use it for PC gaming without ever having to worry about static ruining your screen.
The Samsung QN90A comes in a variety of sizes, all of which should perform similarly no matter which sizes you choose, with the exception of the 43-inch model, which lacks VRR and is limited to a 60Hz panel.
Apart from that, the QN90A also includes one HDMI 2.1 input, allowing you to fully utilize the capabilities of new generation consoles such as the Xbox Series X and PS5. This television also comes with one of Samsung’s One Connect Boxes, which connects to the set through a fiber optic cable and allows for four HDMI 2.1 connections, ensuring that anyone with a multi-gaming device setup is well catered for.
Tizen, Samsung’s smart TV platform, provides smart connectivity and a wide selection of apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, and Now, as well as all the standard catch-up TV services.
However, the Samsung QN90A does offer a really fast response time for smooth motion, and the little input lag makes gaming feel immediate and very responsive. To reduce screen tearing, it also offers both FreeSync and G-SYNC compatibility.
All in all, image quality on the QN90A is excellent, due to an innovative AI-powered Neo Quantum 4K CPU, and its Intelligent Mode optimizes all sources, making it a comfortable screen to watch whatever you choose.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 9.3 x 48.3 x 30.3 inches
Item Weight: 48.3 pounds
Brand: Samsung
Sizes Available: 43″, 50″, 55″, 65″, 75″, and 85″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: Neo QLED (Mini LED)
Input Lag: 10.1ms (1080/60)
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
HDR Compatibility: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes.
Extra Special Features: Quantum Matrix Technology; Neo Quantum Processor 4K; Quantum HDR 32X, Object Tracking Sound+; Motion Xcelerator Turbo+
If you’re planning on purchasing a PS5 or Xbox Series X soon or already have these consoles sitting in your living room, the LG CX OLED TVs are the best next-gen alternative, thanks to a stunning 4K display that runs at a scorching 120Hz. Thanks to Nvidia G-Sync support, it’s also pretty excellent for PC gaming. Though if you’re eyeing the 65-inch model, you might want to invest in a sturdier gaming desk.
Because LG’s class-leading OLED TV has a 120Hz refresh rate, it’s ideal for fast-paced 4K gaming like first-person shooters and racing games, where screen tearing is a thing of the past. As you’d expect from OLED technology, the black levels are incredible, and LG has nailed it with a design that sees the CX line totally turn off individual pixels when used in the darkest settings.
We’re used to most OLED TVs being out of reach and way too expensive for the general public, but the LG CX OLED’s price ranges are shockingly reasonable given all of the accolades they’ve received since their release. We believe the 55-inch model hits the sweet spot of pricing while also being a good size for most houses. You can’t get any better value than that.
Hands down, the Vizio M-series Quantum 2021 model is the best budget-friendly 4k gaming TV you’ll ever come across. It’s a fantastic gaming TV, and while it’s a little more expensive than a few other affordable 4K TVs in the market, it comes with gaming features that most gamers will surely appreciate. It’s well-made and comes in a variety of sizes and all models within different size variants are sure to perform similarly.
The Vizio M-series Quantum is also one of the few budget-friendly TVs that supports VRR via FreeSync. However, do keep in mind that it doesn’t support G-Sync. It has a pretty fast response time for smooth transitions, but it does seem to have a poor response time with dark transitions, so some black smearing might occur. When it comes to responsive gaming, input lag is also quite low.
The Vizio M-series Quantum also supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+. And while it produces deep blacks, its local dimming feature isn’t the most impressive out of the bunch, and it doesn’t get bright enough in HDR to make highlights truly shine.
It’s also not the ideal choice for gaming in brightly illuminated areas, as its peak brightness and reflection management are pretty subpar. Despite that, it’s still a really solid 4K TV for gaming if you don’t mind the compromises made to make this model affordable.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 48.35 x 10.9 x 29.26 inches
Item Weight: 31.3 lbs.
Brand: Vizio
Sizes Available: 50″, 55″, 58″, 65″, 70″, and 75″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: LED
Input Lag: 12.9 ms
Refresh Rate: 60 Hz.
HDR Compatibility:
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes
Extra Special Features: Cinemawide Black Bar Detection, AMD FreeSync Certified, 27 Local Dimming Zones, IQ Active Display Processor, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate
Pros
Budget-friendly.
Supports Google ChromeCast and Apple AirPlay.
Terrific native contrast ratio.
Low input lags.
Cons
Local dimming features can be improved.
You only get a refresh rate of 60 Hz.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Vizio M-Series Quantum (2021) ED C1 Series?
This new entry-level 4K HDR display from Hisense is well worth considering if you’re looking at the affordable end of the best gaming TV spectrum. Just like the other 4K televisions in our list, this also comes in a variety of screen sizes ranging from small to huge.
With a narrow bezel and spaced-out feet, the design is pretty on point. On the back, there are three HDMIs with ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support, as well as eARC. There’s no support for 4k 120Hz, but then again, this seems to be the case with budget-friendly 4K TVs. However, Hisense does promise an input lag of fewer than 20 milliseconds.
When it comes to overall image quality, the results are quite outstanding actually, providing excellent fine detail and adequate dynamics. Dolby Vision is also quite helpful, as it allows the screen to shine with Dolby Vision shows.
If you’re from the UK or you’re getting a UK variant of the Hisense 50A6G, the model will come with a Vidaa smart platform, as well as Freeview Play, which means a good variety of streaming and catch-up players in the UK. On the other hand, if you’re from the US or getting a US variant, you’ll get an Android TV with Chromecast built-in. I’ll let you decide which one is more ideal for your needs.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 44 x 2.9 x 25.4 inches
Item Weight: 21.6 lbs.
Brand: Hisense
Sizes Available: 43″, 50″, 55″, 65″ and 75″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: LED
Input Lag: 48.2ms (1080/60)
Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
HDR Compatibility: HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision
Inputs: HDMI 2.1
VRR: Yes
Pros
Budget-friendly and great value for your money.
Supports plenty of streaming apps to watch all sorts of content.
It’s quite difficult to argue with the reasoning behind buying the Samsung TU-7000. I mean, what more can you ask for? You can easily use it in 4K at 60Hz, which makes it ideal for both gaming and streaming, it offers a wide range of different screen sizes to choose from, plus all the streaming and smart apps you’ll ever need, all for a ridiculously low price. Without a doubt, this is one of the best gaming 4K TVs you can get your hands on in the market.
The Samsung TU-7000 features amazing color quality which includes particularly deep blacks thanks to a high contrast ratio, decent sound, and a fantastic feature called automatic console detection, which immediately switches the display from movie mode to game mode as soon as you turn on your console.
If you navigate to your console from the source menu, it will switch on immediately. Personally, I find this a neat little function that saves you a lot of time when navigating with a somewhat complicated remote. But despite the clunky remote, the user interface is pretty simple to browse, making switching between game consoles and Samsung TV apps a breeze.
When it comes to overall image quality, the results are as you expected. They’re excellent, boasting a high contrast ratio and excellent black uniformity. However, this particular model only features two HDMI connections, which means that if you have more than one gaming console, you’ll need to use a splitter or manually unplug the other to make room for another console.
Overall, the Samsung TU-7000 is a superb 4K television for the money and one that’s especially appealing to gamers due to its low input lag, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratio.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 2.4 x 48.4 x 27.8 inches
Item Weight: 30.6 pounds
Brand: Samsung
Sizes Available: 75″, 70″, 65″, 58″, 55″, 50″, and 43″
Resolution: 4K
Display Type: LED
Input Lag: 9.5ms
Refresh Rate: 60 Hz.
HDR Compatibility: HDR10+, HLG
Inputs: HDMI – 2, USB, Ethernet (LAN), RF In (Terrestrial/Cable Input), RF In (Satellite/Cable Input), and Digital Audio Out (Optical)
VRR: Yes.
Extra Special Features: Smart TV Powered by Tizen; HDR; Crystal UHD Technology Powered by the Crystal Processor 4K; Dolby Digital Plus
Now that we have finished discussing our list of the best 4K TV for gaming this 2021, here are some terms and specs you might want to consider and keep in mind as you shop for your next ultra HD screen.
Color accuracy, contrast, color gamut, viewing angles, battery utilization, screen reflections, smart TV capabilities, and more are all factors to consider when selecting the finest 4K TV for gaming. However, because we’re all here to play games, having a built-in “gaming mode” with minimal input latency and input lag is pretty much essential.
Let’s Talk About Screens: OLED, LED, and QLED
As you go shopping, you’ll come across different types of TVs in your hunt for the finest 4K TV for gaming: OLED, LED, and the most recent type, QLED. While they may share similarities in their names, they couldn’t be any more different and distinct in terms of panel technology.
LED
The final image you see is created by independent image producing and lighting layers on LCD/LED panels. The backlight (LED) illuminates the pixels (LCD), which generate the actual images you see in this interaction. TV makers have introduced fully array backlighting systems, which break the backlighting layer into zones known as “local dimming zones,” to reach the same level of true black as LED televisions.
When you see this characteristic, keep in mind that the more local dimming zones a television has, the better. On the other hand, LED TVs can achieve significantly higher peak brightness levels, but they have narrower viewing angles and muddier blacks since the display can’t completely switch off its backlight the way an OLED screen can.
OLED
Organic Light Emitting Diode or more commonly known as OLED is another form of TV panel that is categorized as an emissive screen technology. In general, LCD and plasma panels require back-lighting or edge-lighting to create images on the screen, whereas OLED screens do not. The LEDs in the panel of backlit or edge-lit TVs are lighted in groups or lines to form a picture.
This implies that the pixels in an OLED panel generate their own light by producing their compounds with an electric current. Because the pixels on an OLED TV produce both the picture and their own light, they may achieve true black without any current through them. Basically, there is no light if there is no energy.
To create a picture on OLED TVs, each LED on the screen can be individually lighted and switched on or off. This is what allows OLED televisions to have truer blacks. Because there is no illumination shining through, you get fine edges on images and deep blacks with the ability to entirely turn off each individual LED.
Apart from that, OLED displays are often dimmer than LCDs, and picture retention (also known as burn-in) issues can occur every once in a while. This problem happens when static items on the screen, such as a network logo or a health bar, become imprinted on the screen either temporarily or permanently.
QLED
Samsung developed QLED panels and is a technology of their own. Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode is the complete abbreviation for QLED. Quantum dots are light-emitting particles that can be substantially brighter than LEDs or QLEDs when used to generate a picture on a screen. As a result, QLED televisions have brighter colors and stronger contrasts than other panel types.
Like regular 4K TVs, the panel is either backlit or edge-lit, which can make a big difference when it comes to black levels. Back-lit QLEDs can generate clear images and blacks that rival even the most premium OLEDs in the market, in addition to delivering vibrant colors. Essentially, these QLED TVs have an extra layer of quantum dots on the back that boosts the brightness and color spectrum of standard LED screens.
Quantum dots, in this way, function as an enhancement filter, producing brighter and purer light than LED panels. This is why Samsung TVs with QLED panels can achieve peak brightness levels that are sometimes a thousand or several thousand nits brighter than OLED panels in the industry. As a result, they’re perfect and ideal for your living room gaming.
HDR
The term HDR stands for High Dynamic Range. HDR is a technique that processes colors in games, movies, TV shows, and any streaming content. This has also become standard on almost all of the 4K TVs you might come across.
However, HDR isn’t just about contrast. It’s also about highlighting the differences between colors (and blacks), and it may be used by game designers and developers to bring out more details in their work. HDR is mostly used to enhance the color of a photograph by making colors more vibrant and thereby increasing contrast.
You can make visuals a lot crisper and the colors pop if you can differentiate extremely similar tones of color. A brightness of 400 nits is the minimum requirement for HDR. Though higher brightness can be achieved in 4K TVs in more recent years. Overall, having HDR capabilities is a significant improvement in picture quality and one of the most appealing features of 4K TVs. It is, however, a little complex.
Today’s 4K TVs support two major HDR standards: HDR10 and Dolby Vision. HDR10 is supported by the majority of 4K TVs in the market that support HDR. Meanwhile, Dolby Vision is only supported by a select handful of much higher-end TVs. When it comes to gaming, HDR10 is all you need and should require. In fact, the PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X can all support HDR10.
A Dolby Vision TV is only really useful if you have a standalone 4K Blu-Ray player or a streaming media box that supports Dolby Vision. But it will not allow you to play HDR games on your chosen console.
Response Time
When it comes to 4K gaming televisions, you’ll hear a lot and often come across about a panel’s response time. This is the rate at which colors on your television can change, like from black to white and to black again. Unless you’re very specific and need fast response times for your games, most 4K TVs have response times faster than we can perceive. Therefore it makes no significant impact on your overall gaming experience unless it’s really needed. Gaming purists, on the other hand, will want the fastest response time possible on their hands.
Refresh Rate
This is the rate at which an image on your TV can be refreshed. Keep in mind that this is not to be confused with response times.
In general, most TVs can only support 60Hz – 120Hz. As of the moment, no 4K TV has higher refresh rates than that. If you’re aiming for 144Hz or even 240Hz, you might want to look into dedicated 4K gaming monitors instead.
A 4K TV with a 60Hz of refresh rate, for example, refreshes the image on the screen 60 times per second, allowing for a certain level of smoothness. Moreover, the image will be twice as smooth if the TV refreshes at 120Hz, and you can tell by how slick and smooth the motion seems on screen.
Nowadays, many TVs’ game modes would artificially increase their refresh rates by degrading other display settings such as reducing the brightness of your picture. So try to keep an eye out on those types of 4K TVs.
HDMI
This is the common connection cord between your 4K TV and most devices you’ll be connecting it to. HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. A 4K signal requires at least an HDMI 1.4 cable, while most recent HDMIs are 2.0 connections that can transport 4K signals at 60 frames per second.
Because the bulk of recent console games don’t support 4K at 60fps, you’ll be pretty much alright as long as you have a 2.0 cable and a 2.0 port on your TV. On top of that, there are only really two types of HDMI cables: standard speed and high speed. You should be fine as long as you have a High-Speed cable.
That isn’t to say that all cables are created equal, but you shouldn’t have to spend a lot more than necessary. To put it simply, you don’t need to waste a lot of money on gold-plated HDMI cables to obtain a good picture outside of aesthetic preferences. Any standard High-Speed cable should work fine and perfectly.
Conclusion
Overall, each 4K TV listed above comes with its set of advantages and disadvantages as well as its own perks and setbacks. Not to mention, certain gaming televisions may also be better suited to one console over another, depending on which you’re using. But whichever you ultimately choose, I hope our list of top recommendations gave you an idea of which 4K gaming TV will suit you best.
Have you already bought your own 4K TV for gaming? Did your pick make it into our list? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, insights, or questions to ask. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
