May 12, 2024, 8:03 am | Read time: 8 minutes
OLED TVs are making their way into more and more living rooms. But what exactly is behind the term, and how good is the picture technology? TECHBOOK explains the key aspects and offers recommendations for the best OLED TVs available in all price ranges.
Especially TV fans who enjoy diving into other worlds in darkened rooms will get their money’s worth with an OLED TV, as the motto here is: Blacker than the night. In the ongoing product battle over which device best represents streaming, videos, and television, high-end manufacturers like LG, Samsung, Philips, and Panasonic outdo themselves with each product generation. TECHBOOK has identified the eleven best OLED TVs and presents them in detail.
Overview
Why OLED TVs are so popular
The acronym OLED stands for “Organic Light Emitting Diode” and already describes the major strength of OLED TVs: Because the pixels emit their own light (“Light Emitting”), such a TV does not require backlighting, unlike traditional LCD models.
When a pixel needs to display black, it simply turns off. This results in a truly pitch-black display–unlike LCDs, where some backlight still shines through. And that’s just one of the advantages of the superior picture quality of OLED TVs. Most issues with these screens have now been resolved. The dreaded burn-in of pixels with static images–such as the score display in soccer games–rarely occurs anymore because the image constantly moves slightly, without the viewer even noticing.
Manufacturers have also drastically improved the brightness and durability of the devices. And due to an EU regulation, the devices are expected to become significantly more energy-efficient in the future. One main disadvantage remains: Due to the more complex production and lower quantities, OLED TVs are still more expensive than traditional LCD TVs. But fans of movies, series, sports, and video games mostly don’t want to go back to LCD once they’ve experienced OLED TVs in action.
What to consider when buying an OLED TV
If you’ve decided on an OLED TV, there are a few points to consider when purchasing:
- The right size: In devices under 40 inches, providers mostly no longer install fast processors of the latest generations. Our tip: Diagonals from 55 inches (1.40 meters) are particularly recommended. The recommended distance to a 55-inch screen with 4K resolution is 1.50 meters.
- Features: Are apps and media libraries included? Is there a USB port? Can shows be recorded via a hard drive? And does the model have two tuners? Only then can you watch one show and record another to watch later.
These points, both the right size (including all other factors like the diagonal and processor) and the complete features of the TV, should be considered when buying. Accordingly, we now present our recommendations for top OLED TVs.
Also read: OLED, QLED, or LCD TV? Which is the better choice?
The 9 Best 55-Inch 4K TVs at a Glance
QLED, 8K, HDR, Micro-LED: What Do These TV Acronyms Mean?
The best OLED TVs for your home
TECHBOOK has already explained what to consider when buying an OLED TV and which specifications matter. Now, let’s focus on which models are particularly worthwhile. Below, you’ll find out which TVs are recommended and what they offer.
LG OLED65G49LS
One of the latest OLED TVs from LG is the 65-inch Evo G4 4K model. The picture quality, colors, and overall performance are particularly impressive. The built-in technology leaves little to be desired and is state-of-the-art. The flat design is not only stylish but also very space-saving. Additionally, numerous ports ensure good connectivity, and the selection of apps is quite extensive.
Panasonic OLED-TV TX-65LZW2004
The Panasonic LZW2004 with 65 inches is not the latest model from Panasonic but is among the best OLED TVs on the market. It offers excellent picture and sound quality. The Master OLED Pro display is particularly strong, providing vibrant colors and strong contrasts. It also supports the most common HDR formats and can be controlled via Google and Alexa voice assistants.
Samsung GQ65S90DATXZG
This Samsung TV is a QD-OLED TV, where “QD” stands for Quantum Dot. Quantum Dots are a coating with tiny crystals that aim to enhance the TV experience by making colors purer and clearer. Therefore, the Samsung TV is particularly suitable for cinephiles and gamers, as it offers outstanding picture and color quality. The device’s operation is intuitive and meets the most important standards.
Philips 65OLED908/12
Philips also offers excellent OLED TVs, such as the OLED908/12. Available in three sizes (55, 65, 77 inches), this is the 65-inch TV. The device’s contrast ratio, color variety, and clarity are noteworthy. A strong feature is the proprietary Ambilight system, which is present on three sides of the TV and offers the ability to dynamically adjust the colors to the displayed image.
LG OLED65C48LA
The next TV in the TECHBOOK overview is the LG OLED65C48LA, which is not only one of the latest but also one of the best OLED TVs. From the C4 series, the OLED65C48LA impresses with bright and clear images and rich colors. Additionally, thanks to the Alpha 9 processor, numerous AI functions are employed to ensure an even better TV experience. The LG TV is also suitable for gaming fans.
Panasonic OLED TV TX-55MZW2004
The MZW2004 series from Panasonic offers numerous high-quality OLED TVs. For those who prefer a slightly smaller TV and are satisfied with 55 inches, the TX-55MZW2004 is recommended. This TV is suitable for both streaming and gaming fans. The Panasonic device impresses with outstanding picture quality, and no expense was spared on interfaces. Thanks to the 360-Degree Soundscape Pro system, the sound quality leaves nothing to be desired.
Sony Bravia XR-55A95L
Like Samsung, Sony also relies on QD-OLED technology for this TV. Accordingly, the 55-inch TV offers a very strong picture with a high color volume. Buyers can also look forward to good sound, which Sony aims to ensure with its proprietary “Acoustic Surface Audio+” technology. A nice highlight is the included webcam, which can be easily attached to the TV.
LG OLED55G48LW
The next 55-inch model we consider is the LG OLED55G48LW. Thanks to its size, this TV is ideal for movie nights and gaming. With webOS 24, you have access to a variety of apps and cloud gaming options. It also supports modern HDR formats and impresses with impressive picture and color quality. The sound is quite good, but an external solution is recommended for an optimal experience.
Samsung GQ55S95DATXZG
One of Samsung’s latest OLED models is the GQ55S95DATXZG from the S95D family. The 55-inch TV, which is also available in 65- and 77-inch variants, comes with the latest technology and is an optimal device for streaming fans due to its strong picture, sound, and color quality. Thanks to anti-glare technology, reflections on the screen are minimized as much as possible.
Philips 48OLED808/12
One of the smaller models in the OLED overview is from Philips. Small does not mean inferior, however. The handy TV is characterized by strong picture and sound quality and is complemented by Ambilight technology. The frameless design is also well thought out, as you hardly lose any display area despite the compact size.
Sony Bravia XR-42A90K
The smallest and not the newest entry on our list is the Sony Bravia XR-42A90K. Nevertheless, the device has a lot to offer. The Sony features a 42-inch screen diagonal but offers strong picture quality and various gaming features. With the integration of Google TV, it is definitely worth considering for streaming fans.
Conclusion
OLED TVs are still high-end products for the ultimate home theater experience, thanks to their technology and features. There are both very large and smaller models. The standard sizes are 65 and 55 inches–at least these are the most common TV sizes or screen diagonals that most providers offer. Unlike other technologies, OLED TVs are not particularly cheap. However, there are now models available for around 1,200 euros, depending on the size. Of course, more expensive options are always available, but those looking for 4K at a low price will also find options quickly.