HDR, motion performance, and resolution are just a few considerations to make when shopping for a gaming TV. Here are a handful of our favorite models for 2024.
The world of TV technology and audio-visual components like Blu-ray players, receivers, soundbars, and game consoles is in a constant state of evolution, with advancements being made regularly. For individuals who are passionate about gaming, ensuring that their gaming console delivers top-notch picture and sound quality is of utmost importance. Investing in one of the best TVs that is specifically optimized for next-generation gameplay can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience. While it is not necessary to splurge on the most expensive TV model available, there are certain key factors that gaming TVs should encompass, such as high resolution, seamless motion performance, and the ability to customize gameplay settings to suit individual preferences.
Based on our extensive testing and evaluation of numerous TVs tailored for modern console connectivity, we have compiled a list of recommendations to assist you in selecting the ideal gaming TV for your specific needs. These recommendations take into account various relevant aspects, including display quality, audio performance, input lag, refresh rate, and compatibility with the latest gaming technologies in order to ensure a truly immersive and enjoyable gaming experience. By considering these factors when choosing a gaming TV, you can make a more informed and satisfying purchase decision that aligns with your gaming preferences and requirements.
TCL Q6 Series QLEDBest budget gaming TV
The TCL Q6 Series is the bottom rung on TCL’s flagship ladder (with the Q7 and QM8 representing the higher rungs). In terms of HDMI inputs, you’ll be working with three 2.0 ports. All three of these inputs also support VRR, but the real win with the Q6 is the set’s incredibly low input lag. This is particularly relevant for competitive gamers who can’t miss a beat during an online match.
The Q6 Series also does a great job at handling both HDR and SDR performance. The former delivers gameplay imagery that is nice and vibrant, while the latter amps up the peak brightness even more. If you’re going to be doing a majority of your gaming in a well-lit room, it’s important that your TV can get bright enough to beat the sunlight and whatever ambient fixtures are contributing luminance. Fortunately, the Q6 also happens to have good reflection handling, so even if the screen is a little on the dark side, you shouldn’t see much in the way of glare.
One thing that’s missing on the Q6 Series though is local dimming, and the set’s native refresh rate is only 60Hz. While TCL attempts to counter this with the Game Accelerator 120 (picture processing that makes 60Hz look more like 120Hz), the TV’s overall response time still takes a hit because of this.
But if you’re looking to save a few bucks on your TV purchase, and want a gaming set that satisfies several must-haves for offline and online gameplay, the TCL Q6 Series should definitely be a consideration.
Hisense U6K Mini-LEDAnother great budget gaming TV
The Hisense U6K may not be as colorful or bright as the brand’s higher-priced U7K and flagship U8K models, but when it comes to cost-friendly TVs that can deliver a great gaming experience, the Hisense U6K checks all the boxes. But what are the best gaming features of this TV, you may be asking?
The biggest wins (at least in our book) are the U6K’s fantastic contrast, VRR support, and solid response time. When Game Mode is enabled, the preset prioritizes motion above all else, delivering a very smooth-looking picture and low input lag. And because the U6K is also good at dealing with bright rooms, you won’t have to worry about reflection handling during the sunnier parts of the day.
Unfortunately, when you’re using Game Mode, you can’t have VRR and local dimming running at the same time. This means you’ll have to make a choice between near-instantaneous motion performance or brightness and contrast accuracy. And considering the TV only supports HDMI 2.0, and has some trouble with response time during darker gameplay scenes, this could be a tough call to make.
None of the above is enough to disqualify the Hisense U6K though. Available in 55-, 65-, and 75-inch sizes, and with prices starting around $400, this Hisense QLED still punches well above its weight class.
Samsung S95D OLED TVBest gaming TV for bright rooms
In our review, we called the 2024 Samsung S95D “one hell of a TV, one of the brightest — and definitely one of the best of the year.” We also explained the uproar the TV caused when it was revealed at this year’s CES, which centered on it’s anti-glare feature.
