Best TVs Of 2022: Top Picks For Every Budget
Choosing the best TV can be overwhelming, guys, especially with so many options flooding the market in 2022. From OLED to QLED, and from budget-friendly to high-end, this guide will walk you through the top TVs available, ensuring you find the perfect screen for your viewing pleasure. We'll break down the key features, discuss the pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision, so grab some popcorn and let's dive in!
OLED TVs: The Pinnacle of Picture Quality
When it comes to picture quality, OLED TVs consistently rank at the top. OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology offers unparalleled contrast, perfect blacks, and stunning color accuracy. Each pixel emits its own light, allowing for incredibly precise control and eliminating the need for a backlight. This results in images that are vibrant, detailed, and incredibly lifelike. If you're a cinephile or someone who demands the very best, an OLED TV is definitely worth considering.
One of the standout OLED TVs of 2022 is the LG C2. Building on the success of its predecessor, the C1, the C2 offers improved brightness, enhanced image processing, and a sleek, modern design. It's powered by LG's α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K, which uses deep learning to optimize picture and sound quality in real-time. The C2 also boasts HDMI 2.1 ports, making it ideal for gamers who want to take full advantage of the latest consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. With its near-infinite contrast ratio and wide viewing angles, the LG C2 delivers an immersive viewing experience that's hard to beat. Another compelling option is the Sony A95K, which combines OLED technology with Sony's Cognitive Processor XR. This processor analyzes and optimizes picture elements in a way that mimics how humans perceive reality, resulting in images that are incredibly natural and realistic. The A95K also features Sony's Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, which turns the entire screen into a speaker, creating a more immersive sound experience. While OLED TVs tend to be more expensive than other types of TVs, the exceptional picture quality makes them a worthwhile investment for discerning viewers. Brands like LG, Sony, and Samsung all offer excellent OLED models, each with its own unique strengths and features. When shopping for an OLED TV, consider factors such as screen size, resolution, HDR support, and smart TV platform to find the perfect fit for your needs.
QLED TVs: Brightness and Vibrant Colors
QLED TVs (Quantum Dot LED) are a strong contender in the high-end TV market, known for their exceptional brightness and vibrant colors. QLED technology uses quantum dots to enhance color accuracy and brightness, resulting in images that are rich, detailed, and visually stunning. While they may not offer the perfect blacks of OLED TVs, QLED TVs excel in bright environments and are a great choice for rooms with lots of natural light. If you want a TV that can deliver a bright, colorful picture, even in a sunny room, a QLED TV is an excellent option.
Samsung's QN90B is a top QLED TV of 2022, offering a Mini LED backlight for improved contrast and brightness control. Mini LED technology uses thousands of tiny LEDs to create a more precise backlight, resulting in deeper blacks and brighter highlights. The QN90B also features Samsung's Neo Quantum Processor 4K, which uses AI to optimize picture and sound quality. With its wide viewing angles and excellent color accuracy, the QN90B delivers an outstanding viewing experience for both movies and games. Another noteworthy QLED TV is the TCL 6-Series, which offers excellent value for money. It combines QLED technology with Mini LED backlighting and Dolby Vision HDR for a stunning picture quality at a more affordable price point. The TCL 6-Series also features Roku TV, a user-friendly smart TV platform with access to a wide range of streaming services. While QLED TVs may not match the perfect blacks of OLED TVs, they offer a compelling alternative with their exceptional brightness and vibrant colors. Brands like Samsung and TCL are leading the way in QLED technology, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible. When choosing a QLED TV, consider factors such as screen size, resolution, HDR support, and smart TV platform to find the best option for your needs. Remember to check professional reviews and compare specifications to make an informed decision. Ultimately, the best QLED TV for you will depend on your budget, viewing preferences, and the specific features you're looking for.
Budget-Friendly TVs: Great Value Without Breaking the Bank
You don't have to spend a fortune to get a great TV. There are plenty of budget-friendly TVs that offer excellent value for money. These TVs may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, but they still deliver a satisfying viewing experience. If you're on a tight budget, or if you just need a TV for a secondary room, a budget-friendly TV is a smart choice.
The TCL 4-Series is a standout budget-friendly TV, offering 4K resolution and HDR support at an incredibly affordable price. While it may not have the advanced features of more expensive models, the TCL 4-Series delivers a sharp, clear picture with decent color accuracy. It also features Roku TV, a user-friendly smart TV platform with access to thousands of streaming channels. Another great option is the Hisense U6G, which offers a quantum dot display for enhanced color and brightness. The Hisense U6G also supports Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos audio, providing a more immersive viewing experience. While budget-friendly TVs may not have the best contrast or the widest color gamut, they offer a great value for the price. Brands like TCL, Hisense, and Insignia offer a range of affordable TVs that cater to different needs and preferences. When shopping for a budget-friendly TV, focus on features that are most important to you, such as screen size, resolution, and smart TV platform. Don't be afraid to read reviews and compare specifications to find the best deal. Remember, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy a good TV. With a little research, you can find a budget-friendly option that meets your needs and provides a satisfying viewing experience.
Gaming TVs: Low Latency and High Refresh Rates
For gamers, a gaming TV with low latency and high refresh rates is essential. Gaming TVs are designed to minimize input lag, ensuring that your actions are reflected on the screen as quickly as possible. They also typically support high refresh rates, such as 120Hz, which results in smoother, more fluid motion. If you're a serious gamer, investing in a gaming TV can significantly improve your gaming experience.
The LG C2, which we mentioned earlier as an excellent OLED TV, is also a fantastic choice for gaming. It features HDMI 2.1 ports, which support 4K resolution at 120Hz, as well as Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). VRR eliminates screen tearing, while ALLM automatically switches the TV to its lowest latency mode when a game is detected. The LG C2's near-instantaneous response time and low input lag make it a dream for gamers. Another great gaming TV is the Samsung QN90B, which also supports HDMI 2.1 and features Samsung's Game Mode. Game Mode optimizes picture settings for gaming, reducing input lag and improving motion clarity. The QN90B's Mini LED backlight also provides excellent contrast and brightness, making games look vibrant and immersive. When choosing a gaming TV, look for features such as HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM, and low input lag. These features will ensure that you get the best possible gaming experience. Brands like LG, Samsung, and Sony offer a range of gaming TVs that cater to different budgets and preferences. Don't forget to check professional reviews and compare specifications to find the perfect gaming TV for you. Ultimately, the best gaming TV will depend on your gaming habits, the types of games you play, and your budget.
Smart TV Platforms: Choose Your Ecosystem
Most TVs today come with built-in smart TV platforms, which provide access to streaming services, apps, and other online content. The smart TV platform you choose can significantly impact your overall viewing experience. Each platform has its own unique interface, features, and app selection. It's important to choose a smart TV platform that you find easy to use and that offers the apps and services you need.
Roku TV is a popular smart TV platform known for its user-friendly interface and vast app selection. It's easy to navigate and offers access to thousands of streaming channels, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Roku TV also supports voice control, allowing you to search for content and control your TV with your voice. Another popular smart TV platform is Google TV, which is based on Android TV. Google TV offers a personalized home screen that recommends content based on your viewing habits. It also integrates with other Google services, such as Google Assistant and Chromecast. Samsung's Tizen is another widely used smart TV platform, known for its sleek design and smooth performance. Tizen offers a wide range of apps and services, as well as features like Multi View, which allows you to watch two things at once. When choosing a smart TV, consider the smart TV platform and its features. Think about which apps and services you use most often and whether the platform offers them. Also, consider the user interface and whether you find it easy to navigate. Brands like Roku, Google, and Samsung offer a range of smart TVs with different platforms, so you can find one that suits your needs and preferences. Remember to check professional reviews and compare features to make an informed decision. Ultimately, the best smart TV platform for you will depend on your viewing habits and your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Finding the best TV in 2022 depends on your individual needs and budget. Whether you're looking for the ultimate picture quality of an OLED TV, the vibrant colors of a QLED TV, or a budget-friendly option that offers great value, there's a TV out there for you. Consider factors such as screen size, resolution, HDR support, smart TV platform, and gaming features to make an informed decision. Don't forget to read reviews and compare specifications to find the perfect TV for your viewing pleasure. Happy watching, guys! And remember that investing in a good television can transform your viewing habits, and makes those movie nights with friends that much more special, also, don't forget the popcorn!