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The best 4K TVs for gaming

These picture-perfect screens will enhance your gaming experience.
The best 4K TVs for gaming

Best For Power
Sony goes next-gen with this recent TV — packed with gaming features and visual power.
Pros & Cons
The Good
Strong audio Google Assistant IMAX Enhanced
The Bad
Not as bright as OLED Missing UK catch-up apps
The Bottomline
A top branded TV that delivers performance well beyond its price point.
Best For Big Screens
A great-looking, oversized LCE screen that's loaded with tech for next gen-level gaming.
Pros & Cons
The Good
Low input lag Great for sports User-friendly menus
The Bad
Better visuals available No Disney Plus
The Bottomline
Impressive for a mid-range TV and gloriously huge — plus essential spec for the future of gaming.
Best For Wall Mounting
An impressive, gamer-friendly upgrade from Samsung that matches the visuals of OLED.
Pros & Cons
The Good
Solar powered remote control Excellent for wall mounting Sharp, reliable OS Voice command
The Bad
Less adept upscaling SD
The Bottomline
Samsung makes a play for gamers with one of the best TVs of the last year.
Best For OLED
A hugely popular TV from LG that delivers an unbeatable OLED gaming experience.
Pros & Cons
The Good
Supports lots of HD formats LG Magic remote control Good for PC gaming
The Bad
Stand interferes with soundbar Reflective glass screen
The Bottomline
There are brighter LG sets available but at this price it's hard to beat the spec and visuals.
Best For Tight Budgets
TCL combines with Android TV for an impressive budget option for gamers.
Pros & Cons
The Good
Dolby Vision Atmos ONKYO speaker Voice assistant Game mode
The Bad
No HDMI 2.1 A few apps missing
The Bottomline
Missing the connection for true next-gen gaming, but it's hard to argue with this price.
Best For Reliability
Get next-gen visuals for a more modest price with this reliable gamer-friendly TV.
Pros & Cons
The Good
Good price Next gen ready IMAX Enhanced Slick operating system
The Bad
Reported picture blooming
The Bottomline
This set will be a relief to some gamers. Proof that next-gen gameplay doesn't require the priciest, most tech heavy TV.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

The next generation is here. By which we mean next-gen consoles: the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. They're pretty much standard for serious gamers going forward. Which means it's time to also upgrade to a 4K TV. Why miss out on the stunning detail and fast response gameplay that 4K TVs offer?

The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X will output gameplay to a 4K TV, so you can see the full glory of 4K-optimised games such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II or FIFA 23. You said you wanted an immersive gaming experience? You’ll get it with these perfect pairings.

Most 4K TVs are also loaded with smart features, which are great for when you want to take a break from games, or for when your roommates want to get in some Netflix-and-chill time. Features include support and functionality for streaming media services, voice search, or mirroring content from your phone or tablet.

What is 4K?

4K is a fancy way of saying ultra-high definition. A 4K TV display has at least 8 million active pixels. With a standardised resolution of 3,840 x 2,160, it has four times the resolution of the HD standard of 1080p. Top branded TVs also upscale regular HD and SD content so it looks as polished as possible.

Do you need a 4K TV for gaming?

In a word, yes. At least, you do if you want to get the most about of your next-gen console. The previous gen PS4 Pro and Xbox also support 4K, so you might already be behind the times tech-wise. Not only do the PS5 and Xbox Series X continue with immense 4K content, but the current wave of 4K TVs are packed with other features to meet the consoles’ improved spec. These include eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), 4K at 120Hz (High Frame Rate), HGiG tone-mapping, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and low input lag.

How big are 4K TVs?

When it comes to 4K, bigger is indeed better. And why not? A bigger screen makes sense when you're looking to get the most out of the 4K quality — and to set these TVs apart from smartphones and small devices, which we increasingly use to watch HD content. The smallest size in 4K is usually 48 inches, going up to 55, 65, 75, and even 80 inch screens. Screen size is measured diagonally, from corner to corner.

What is low input lag?

This is tech jargon for how long it takes your TV to turn the data it's receiving into an actual image on the screen. The lower the input lag (counted in milliseconds) the better. This means the gaming action will be as up-to-speed as possible, without lagging behind what’s happening on the control pad or your opponent’s screen. What good is it if your trigger and target are out of sync? Milliseconds might not sound like something to worry about, but just 100ms can make a huge difference — making games difficult to play, in fact.

What is ALLM?

This stands for Auto Low Latency Mode. It’s a nifty bit of tech which automatically detects a gaming signal and switches your TV to gaming mode. This essentially shuts down any surplus picture processing power, which in turns speeds up the gaming performance and cuts down on the dreaded input. For gamers who like the path of least resistance — i.e. getting into the game with minimal effort — it eliminates the need to switch your TV to its gaming mode before firing up the console.

Do you need HDMI 2.1?

For the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, you absolutely need HDMI 2.1. Both consoles use HDMI 2.1 to output games at up to 120fps (frames per second). HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of HDMI, with a spec that supports an increased bandwidth of 48Gbps. This means higher resolution, faster refresh rates, and better HDR support. HDMI 2.1 also supports eARC, which ensures you’re compatible with the latest audio tech for the best possible sound performance.

While TVs come with multiple HDMI ports, not all ports will be HDMI 2.1 (2.0 is often included as standard — anything under 2.0 won’t be able to handle 4K resolution at anything higher than 30 frames a second). Fortunately, most of the latest crop of 4K TVs will include at least one HDMI 2.1, which is all you need. This is unless you want to have both a PS5 and Xbox Series X plugged in at once. The PS4 and the last Xbox will happily make do with HDMI 2.0 — as will the Nintendo Switch.

What does 120Hz mean?

This is the refresh rate — how many times the screen refreshes per minute. The higher the refresh rate the smoother the handling of motion and gameplay is. With the PS5 and Xbox Series X pumping out games at 120fps, you want a 4K TV that can handle that with 120Hz. Thankfully, most do. You’ll also find some TVs equipped with VRR. This means Variable Refresh Rate, which keeps pace with sudden changes in a game’s fps output to prevent stuttering within gameplay.

What is the best gaming TV?

From high-end options to more wallet-friendly picks, these are the best gaming-friendly 4K TVs that deliver on fast action, quick response, and overall performance.

These are the best 4K TVs for gaming in 2022.

Sony XR55X90JU

Best For Power

The good
Strong audio Google Assistant IMAX Enhanced
The Bad
Not as bright as OLED Missing UK catch-up apps
The Bottomline
A top branded TV that delivers performance well beyond its price point.
Specs
  • Display: Full Array LED
  • Gaming Spec: VRR, ALLM, ARC/eARC, HDR game mode, gaming apps
  • HDMI Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz native

When it comes to picture and sound, Sony has always been the complete package — but it has sometimes lacked in gaming features. Ironic, it being the manufacturer behind the all-powerful PlayStation. 

The Sony X90J fixes that, with some game-focused spec that even outstrips its pricier Sony sets. Powered by the Google TV operating system, the Sony X90J comes complete with two HDMI 2.1 ports, VRR, and ALLM — a sure-fire combo for a fluid, reactive, lag-free gaming experience. 

Image-wise you’re in safe hands. The X90J supports Dolby Vision, but the real visual power is Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR — this analyses the images and figures out which areas to focus in on. It’s an intuitive tech that processes images like the human brain and eye. The result is better detail and depth, and more realistic nuances.

The smart interface is user-friendly, and you’ll find access to Bravia CORE, an exclusive streaming app packed with Sony movies.

Coming in at the midway point from Sony’s latest range, it does lose some features you’ll find in its more expensive big brothers (see the A90J, for instance) but the X90J is so much more affordable — especially considering the overall quality and power — that it likely won’t affect your decision to purchase. 

Panasonic JX940

Best For Big Screens

The good
Low input lag Great for sports User-friendly menus
The Bad
Better visuals available No Disney Plus
The Bottomline
Impressive for a mid-range TV and gloriously huge — plus essential spec for the future of gaming.
Specs
  • Display: LCD LED backlight
  • Gaming Spec: Game Mode Extreme, VRR, ALLM, eARC, Auto AI
  • HDMI Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz native

Panasonic’s mid-range TVs have always rated very highly among the experts, though as recently as last year they were missing key tech for up-to-the-minute gaming. The Panasonic JX940 is a literal game-changer though, thanks to what it calls “Game Mode Extreme”. This adds 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and two HDMI 2.1 ports. That all combines with ALLM and AMD FreeSync Premium for an all-round smooth, lifelike gaming experience. 

Where straight-up visuals are concerned, the JX940 is powered by HCX Pro AI Processor (the same processor that powers Panasonic’s more expensive OLED sets). This smart bit of tech analyses colour, contrast, and clarity in each image to deliver the best possible quality in every single frame. It’s especially good for lightning-fast action. That goes for games, movies, and sport. Not to mention multi-HD support — Dolby Vision, HLG, HDR10, or the new HDR10 . It supports Dolby Atmos too, so the sound quality matches the action.

It’s about as good as LCD screens come though it doesn’t match the brightness of QLED or overall quality of OLED (Panasonic do have plenty of those to choose from) but at this price the spec in undeniable. 

Samsung QN94A

Best For Wall Mounting

The good
Solar powered remote control Excellent for wall mounting Sharp, reliable OS Voice command
The Bad
Less adept upscaling SD
The Bottomline
Samsung makes a play for gamers with one of the best TVs of the last year.
Specs
  • Display: Neo QLED
  • Gaming Spec: eARC, ALLM, HGiG tone-mapping, VRR
  • HDMI Ports: 1x HDMI 2.1, 3 x HDMI 2.0
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz native

The Samsung QN94A is part of Samsung's latest flagship range. Samsung has really upped the ante for next-gen gaming, with eARC, ALLM, 120Hz, HGiG tone-mapping, VRR, and Motion Xcelerator Turbo Plus (a nifty bit of tech which prevents lingering residual image while you play at high speed). 

It has a dedicated gamer mode (in fact, there's a designated HDMI port for next-gen consoles) that switches to the optimised gaming settings as soon as you fire up your console. Bringing the game to life is a Neo QLED screen. Samsung’s much-trumpeted Neo QLED replaces usual LED diodes with much smaller diodes, which creates far more (not to mention smaller) dimming zones for better control over contrast and colours. This creates a sparky, detailed, eye-popping image, which can handle as much action as your next-gen console will chuck at it. But Samsung is still digging its heels in by not including Dolby Vision, unfortunately.

If you want the completely immersive experience, a soundbar is a must (that goes for all but a few TVs, and at this price you want a proper setup) but the QN94A can certainly handle plenty of oomph. Object Tracking Sound uses eight speakers which follow movement on screen to create a truly three-dimensional experience.

LG C1

Best For OLED

The good
Supports lots of HD formats LG Magic remote control Good for PC gaming
The Bad
Stand interferes with soundbar Reflective glass screen
The Bottomline
There are brighter LG sets available but at this price it's hard to beat the spec and visuals.
Specs
  • Display: OLED
  • Gaming Spec: Game Optimiser, ALLM, HGiG, VRR, G-Sync, FreeSync Premium
  • HDMI Ports: 4 x HDMI 2.1
  • Operating System: webOS
  • Processor: a9 Gen4 AI Processor 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz native
  • Sizes: 48. 55, 65, and 77-inch

It’s not hard to see why the LG C1 is one of the best 4K TVs for gaming. Quite literally, in fact. The LG C1 is loaded with HDR support for an unfathomably sharp image. It supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and HLG, which means an incredible HD on most major streaming services. The picture is refined, with huge upscaling capability, enhanced colours, and deep blacks. That’s boosted by Cinematic Movement motion processing and nine picture modes, including ones dedicated to movies and gaming. 

It’s also equipped with a “Game Optimiser” menu which allows you to tweak the brightness, contrast, VRR, and other features as you play. LG prides itself on the OLED gaming experience — fluid, responsive, and totally immersive. The all-glass screen isn’t ideal for daytime gaming or bright rooms. The reflection can really interfere with your gameplay. It’s worth considering if this is a deal breaker for you.

If you’re keen to do as much streaming as playing, LG’s webOS operating system allows you to add new channels and apps — including UK catch-up apps, which were missing from previous LGs — while ThinQ AI recommends things to watch based on your viewing habits. It you’re a sports fan, the LG C1 keeps you up to date with your team's scores.

TCL 50C720K

Best For Tight Budgets

The good
Dolby Vision Atmos ONKYO speaker Voice assistant Game mode
The Bad
No HDMI 2.1 A few apps missing
The Bottomline
Missing the connection for true next-gen gaming, but it's hard to argue with this price.
Specs
  • Display: QLED
  • Gaming Spec: ALLM, Motion Clarity, Game Mode
  • HDMI: 3 x HDMI 2.0
  • Refresh rate: 60 Hz native

Here’s a pleasingly affordable gaming TV — a solid entry level set with respectable spec. In fact, the TCL 50C720K punches above its price range when stacked against other TVs.

It's a clear upgrade on previous TCL TVs, with a QLED 4K screen — very strong for the budget range. The picture is boosted by Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and other HD formats, which optimises colour and contrast. You do have to bear in the mind, however, that it is ultimately a budget set. It's good but it doesn't compete with more expensive options. But at a fraction of the price, the difference is marginal in the grand scheme of things.

The TCL 50C720K will suit pretty much any room thanks to a wide range of sizes. It has an integrated Android TV operating system, which is another upgrade for the TCL range. The platform itself is fluid and easy to navigate.

With its HDMI 2.0 ports, this is really a choice for current gen gaming consoles. Not everyone will upgrade to a PS5 or Xbox Series X and HDMI 2.0 is more than capable. There’s also a dedicated Game Mode which boasts an impressively low input lag.

Hisense 55U8H

Best For Reliability

The good
Good price Next gen ready IMAX Enhanced Slick operating system
The Bad
Reported picture blooming
The Bottomline
This set will be a relief to some gamers. Proof that next-gen gameplay doesn't require the priciest, most tech heavy TV.
Specs
  • Display: Mini-LED
  • Gaming Spec: ALLM, VRR. FreeSync Premium, Game Mode Pro
  • HDMI Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz native

Hisense is essentially a budget TV manufacturer, but the brand has aimed high with the Hisense 55U8H. It’s likely to impress even the sniffiest gamers. It’s a literal bright spot among the budget end of the market, thanks to a mini-LED backlight, local dimming, and Quantum Dots to crank up the brightness even more. Add to that support for Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10 Adaptive, and more.

Why we’re really here, of course, is gaming. Hisense has packed an unusually strong gaming spec into this model. HDMI 2.1 is rare on budget TVs. Even expensive models can be stingy with it, providing a limited number of HDMI 2.1 ports. But the Hisense 55U8H is more than ready for next gen. Which is especially handy if you’ve spent all your cash on a PS5 or Xbox Series X. You’ll find its Game Mode Pro is razor sharp and leg-free.

If you like to tuck into some blockbuster viewing post-gaming session, the Hisense 55U8H has plenty more to offer, with support for stacks of steaming apps, IMAX capabilities, and even a filmmaker mode that adjusts the picture for a cinema-like experience.

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