14 best TVs with Smart TV function

Just a few years ago, TVs with Smart TV functionality were a real gimmick. Nowadays, it makes no sense to buy a device without any smart functionality, unless it will be used somewhere in the kitchen, garage, or bathroom. But in the living room or bedroom you want to have quick access to a certain content, and only Smart TV can provide that. That’s why we decided to talk about the best TVs with WebOS, Tizen or some other operating system.

Most popular OS

While the vast majority of smartphones sold now operate under Android and iOS, there is a bit more diversity in the TV market:

1. LG devices come with the WebOS operating system. It has a long history. Its first versions were developed by Palm, which used to produce decent PDAs. For some time WebOS is adapted exclusively for TVs. The operating system displays the main applications in the form of bookmarks in the lower area of the screen. Most of the settings are made literally in a couple of clicks of the remote. Especially if it is the so-called remote-pointer (Magic Remote), which comes with top and mid-budget 4K models. This operating system also boasts a special feature that allows you to watch what’s happening on your computer, tablet or smartphone on your TV screen by using Miracast technology. Speaking of drawbacks, the only thing that comes to mind is the lack of support for the m2ts format – it was removed with the release of the fourth version of the OS. Therefore, it is better to download 4K movies to such TVs in MKV format.

2. Samsung has been installing the Tizen operating system on its smart TVs for quite a few years. In its time, the South Koreans have tried to lighten it completely. As a result, Tizen has begun to appear on smart watches and even refrigerators. The TVs use, as it seems, its most functional variant. At the same time, operating the operating system remains as simple as possible. Here, too, the picture transmission to the TV screen via Wi-Fi is supported. And if the device has a Bluetooth-module, and the corresponding remote control is included in the set, the operating system will understand voice commands. But it is impossible to use the remote as a pointer – for some reason, a few years ago, Samsung refused to use this method of control. But in the new models, Steam is built-in

3. nk. This means that the customer will be able to play those games on the TV, which are available in its library Steam – the image will be transmitted from a computer without brakes and with minimal delay. As for the rest Tizen is a typical operating system, adapted for the huge TV screen, where for some settings you need to make only one or two clicks on the remote.

4. Android TV is very popular now. This operating system is distributed free of charge, so there are several companies that produce TVs based on it. Sony is the most active in this direction – the Japanese have realized that Smart TV based on

5. The nux does not make any impression on the buyer. Perhaps, it is Android TV can be called the least stable system – slowness can start one day even on top-of-the-line TVs, equipped with a very powerful processor and a large amount of memory. The operating system interface is adapted to your TV display and remote control. Unfortunately, Android TV is equipped only with a traditional remote control, so someone will want to connect a wireless mouse. But this operating system is famous for its openness. This means that you can run almost any application that is somehow adapted to the landscape orientation of the screen. In particular, you can run a torrent client, downloading media content to an external hard drive with it. Competitors exactly can not offer this!

6. This concludes the list of the most popular operating systems for Smart TV. As mentioned above, Sony used to install something of its own, developed based on the

7. nux. That operating system was quite possible to use, it still feels good on TVs of happy customers. But it is impossible not to note its nightmarish interface, devoid of any decorations. And the set of applications is not too large, which can not help but disappoint. Here is why

Apart from Sony, only a handful of companies have been involved in this experiment. Also with Smart TV you can find Opera TV and Firefox OS.

Which is better TIZEN, ANDROID TV, WEBOS

To finish you can look at the table which contains the main advantages and disadvantages of the most popular operating systems present in today’s smart TVs.

Smart TV rating

The best Smart TVs with the Tizen operating system

Samsung QE65Q7FAM

Rating: 4.9

The QLED Smart TV opens our top picks. This means that its 65-inch matrix has quantum dots. To put it crudely, these pixels can shine much brighter than their conventional counterparts. As a result, you can look at the screen of such a TV at any angle – you won’t notice a brightness drop or color distortion. Also this display is 10-bit. This shows that this is where HDR picture looks best. Finally, we can not miss the high frame rate – the matrix boasts the parameter 120 Hz. In short, you get the smoothest, most colorful picture possible! Needless to say, it uses 4K resolution, about F

l HD is now best forgotten.

The operating system Tizen feels the best. Processor power and memory capacity are more than enough. Slowness, of course, can be achieved, but for this you will have to install a huge number of additional applications. Access to the Internet via high-speed Wi-Fi or LAN-port. Bluetooth is present here as well – it is needed for sound output to wireless headphones and for correct work of the One Remote.

Despite the very large size, the power consumption of the TV does not exceed 153 watts. It was possible to slightly reduce this parameter due to the use of a QLED-matrix. The weight of the device is 28.2 kg. Not only the huge screen but also the audio system influenced it. It consists of four 10-watt speakers, and the whole thing is supplemented with a subwoofer. By the way, if you are going to watch TV, there will be no questions for this model too – it understands all digital standards, including satellite DVB-S2. It also includes three USB-ports and four HDMI-connections. For the wired sound output we use the optical output only.

Advantages

• Increased scanning frequency;
• Used QLED-matrix with a huge color gamut;
• 4K resolution;
• The stable work of the operating system;
• The audio system is excellent;
• Maximum viewing angles;
• Large size;
• All digital TV standards are supported;
• There are Wi-Fi 802 modules.11ac and Bluetooth;
• A large number of connectors;
• Remote control with voice control included.

Disadvantages

• Very high price;
• Low prevalence in Russia;
• No 3.5mm audio jack.

Samsung UE55MU6100U

Rating: 4.8



Continues our rating is already significantly less expensive TV. It doesn’t use a QLED matrix, but a more traditional and familiar PLS display. Its diagonal is 54.6 inches. Viewing angles can not be called a maximum, but the distortion of the picture is very small, and not everyone will notice them. The image is displayed with a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. The refresh rate of the matrix is 50 Hz, like most 4K displays in this price segment. It is interesting that a local dimming is realized here. This allows you to hope for very deep blacks. However, this feature does not work in the best way – someone will even turn it off. As for the brightness, it is very difficult to find fault with it – even when watching HDR content the picture does not seem too dim.

The production of this smart TV from South Korea almost did not save money. In this regard, the product has received a very powerful processor, due to which Tizen almost does not slow down. Nevertheless, if you make a direct comparison with similar models in 2018, the loss in speed can be seen. Store aggregators indicate that the operating system accesses the Internet only through Wi-Fi 802.11n. However, in reviews no one complains about the speed of reception and data transfer. Maybe support for a higher speed standard is implemented after all? What you can’t argue with is the presence of a Bluetooth module. This technology is used to transmit voice commands that are spoken into the included remote. If you are interested in wired connections, then there are three HDMI-connectors, a pair of USB-ports and Ethernet jack. Sound output – only on the optical output. To connect a home theater in the future would be desirable, as two 10-watt speakers will gradually seem not enough.

The device has two independent TV tuners. The first is sharpened for cable and terrestrial television, and the second – for satellite. It is easy enough to write a picture to a flash drive. But instead many customers are more likely to play video from it. It is gratifying that the built-in player supports almost all modern formats. Including it understands the downloaded folders with m2ts-files. Not bad works here and “up-down”, which literally draws additional frames.

Note that the power consumption of the TV reaches a considerable value – 210 watts. There are also defective copies, on the screen which appear horizontal or vertical stripe. There can be other cases of defects – this TV must be replaced before the warranty period expires. If this frightened you, you should pay your attention to the other models in our rating.

Advantages

• Large diagonal;
• Acceptable viewing angles;
• High brightness level;
• There is support for satellite TV;
• Bluetooth is present;
• Comes with a remote control that supports voice input;
• Stable operation of the operating system;
• 4K resolution.

Disadvantages

• High percentage of defects;
• Not very loud for such a diagonal sound;
• The number of connectors could be more;
• A flimsy stand;
• No 3.5mm jack.

Samsung UE49NU7100U

Rating: 4.8



This Smart TV belongs to the 2018 model range. The diagonal of its screen is 49 inches. This allows you to set the TV in the bedroom or living room and it is a kind of universal set. The 4K resolution here looks perfect – you can’t see individual pixels even from a short distance. Nevertheless, this is the younger model of the 7-series, so it was not without simplifications. The frame rate of the matrix installed here is 50 Hz. Boosting up to 100 Hz is possible, but only by the software method, by activating the corresponding function in the settings. The display was created using VA technology, which means that the viewing angles are average – you will definitely notice a decrease in brightness if you look at the TV from somewhere on the side. But this matrix provides a very deep black colors – in this respect, the TV is inferior only to QLED-and OLED-TVs, which are significantly more expensive (the latter are not presented in 49-inch diagonal). Another simplification has to do with color. The fact that the matrix is 8-bit. This means that HDR-content is not too different from the usual one – you can’t dream about a billion colors.

The TV body is painted black and the frame is very narrow. Two legs are used as a stand – the design is very stable. This model has not only a screen but also a pair of speakers. The power of each is 10 watts, which can be considered a standard for this diagonal. On the rear panel of the device there are three HDMI ports and two USB ports. It has a LAN socket for a wired connection to the router. And it is almost irrelevant for this model, because the speed capabilities of Wi-Fi 802.11ac Wi-Fi is enough to play 4K content. There is also an optical output on the rear wall which is the only one used for the sound output.

Unfortunately, the Smart TV does not have a Bluetooth module. That is why it comes with a regular remote control that does not support voice input. Also it makes it almost impossible to connect headphones.

Advantages

• Power consumption does not exceed 140 watts;
• The display has 4K resolution;
• Deep black color;
• Quite stable operation of the OS;
• There is support for the DVB-S2 satellite standard;
• There is a light sensor;
• It uses Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
• Low cost.

Disadvantages

• No Bluetooth;
• There is no 3.5mm audio jack;
• Not very wide viewing angles;
• Not the greatest number of HDMI and USB connectors.

Samsung UE43NU7400U

Rating: 4.7



One of the most compact TVs in our rating. On its front panel is located VA-display, the diagonal of which does not exceed 42.5 inches (108 cm). At the same time, the buyer awaits a full-fledged 4K resolution. It is because of the compliance with the standard

The tra HDTV costs quite a tangible 40 thousand. rub.

Like other Samsung devices, this model operates under the Tizen. The operating system even slags, but only in the rarest of cases. The Smart TV belongs to the 2018 lineup, so there is already built-in Steam

• The nk, simplifying the transfer of computer games.

  The body of this model is painted black. The screen placed here has an anti-reflective coating. Sweep rate here is the standard 50 Hz. The program method can make the picture more smooth – with this task TV copes pretty well. Although it is better not to set the maximum level of smoothness, otherwise you will find a lot of artifacts. The viewing angles here are also average. Black can be called very deep – VA-matrix does its job. HDR-effect here on the “B minus” – it is felt that the display is only 8-bit.

  The 42.5-inch diagonal suggests that the TV is ideal for installation in the bedroom. If your room has a large enough area, such a screen will not be enough. How can not be satisfied with the audio system, which consists of two speakers with 10 watts each. Fortunately, the sound can be easily outputted to the soundbar or the home theater system by activating the optical output. But headphones do not connect – there is no 3.5 mm audio jack, or Bluetooth. Due to the lack of the latter, the TV is equipped with a conventional remote control, which is deprived of a microphone. This imposes a certain limitation on the use of YouTube – entering a search query will take some time.

  The connection to the router is via the high-speed Wi-Fi standard 802.11ac. However, no one interferes to use a wired connection, if you suddenly feel the need. Besides LAN-port on the back wall there are three HDMI and two USB sockets. It should be noted that the USB 3.There is no 0 here, so it is better not to play video with very high bitrate through this interface.

  Advantages

  • The Wi-Fi module supports 802.11ac;
  • It uses a screen with 4K resolution;
  • A very deep black color;
  • Satellite TV support has been implemented;
  • Not a very high power consumption;Weight
  • Weight 12.1 kg (including the stand).

  Disadvantages

  • There is no Bluetooth;
  • There is no 3.5mm audio jack;
  • Part of the circulation is with an IPS matrix;
  • A lot of copies with backlighting;
  • Comes with a simplified remote control.

  The best Smart TVs with Android TV

  Sony KD-49XE8096

  Rating: 4.9

  

  If image quality is very important to you, then you should definitely pay attention to this TV. Many people say that Sony makes a huge markup for the brand. But in fact it is not so – the higher price is due to a high-quality picture. Sony KD-49XE8096 is a proof of that. However, not without reservations.

  Buyer of this model expects juicy colors and high brightness of backlighting. Also, it boasts maximum viewing angles, while mid-budget competitors from LG and Samsung are bound to distort colors or decrease brightness. However, there are a couple of limitations, if not problems. It uses 8-bit color depth (which most customers won’t even notice). Also the TV set has a bad dynamic picture reproduction rate. If the entire screen is filled with an image, everything is fine. If there are black bars at the top and bottom, then the jerking begins. This is a software problem that has not been solved for several years.

  The screen of thisSmart TV has a diagonal of 48.5 inches (123 cm). The product can also boast of very slim bezels. The sound is produced by two speakers with 10 Watt each – in this respect Sony has decided not to be too fancy. If you do not want to wake up your sleeping soulmate or your children, you can connect headphones. You can do it with the help of 3,5 mm audio jack or Bluetooth-module. It immediately distinguishes the TV set against the background of South Korean products. There are also three USB-ports and four HDMI-sockets on the rear panel. In short, with the connection of technology to the device will not be any problems!

  This model supports all digital TV standards, including over-the-air DVB-T2 and satellite DVB-S2. As for access to the Internet, it is carried out through a cable or Wi-Fi 802.11ac. Android TV is responsible for the processing of information here. The operating system slows down, but only rarely enough. It is pleased that there is no way to install programs from third-party sources – so you can find a torrent client and other similar software.

  Advantages

  • The screen has a rich color gamut;
  • Maximum viewing angles;
  • A very large number of connectors;
  • Headphones plugs in without any problems;
  • 4K resolution;
  • Supports all standards of digital TV
  • Built-in 802 Wi-Fi modules; Small size and weight.11ac and Bluetooth.

  Disadvantages

  • Strangely working “upscaling”;
  • High price;
  • Increased power consumption;
  • Comes with a simple remote control;
  • It uses an external power supply.

  hi

  ps 49PUS6412

  Rating: 4.8

  

  This TV was included in our rating because of its thin frame, painted silver. It’s not the only one, though. We remember how Philips TVs stirred up the public. Their backlighting space behind the screen, called Ambi

• Ght, visually enhances the picture. Many people are willing to buy such a device just because of it! Well, such consumers are advised to take a look at the Philips 49PUS6412. This model runs Android TV – an operating system for which there are a huge number of applications. Optimization – at the level, but it’s not ideal.

  On the front side of the Smart TV is an IPS-display with 4K resolution, which has a diagonal of 48.5 inches (123 cm). Perhaps the main disadvantages of the device stem precisely from the matrix used. Viewing angles are good, but some fading of the picture is still noticeable. But the black color is the most disappointing – it’s far from ideal. Also, some models suffer from dark corners – this is caused by the use of Direct LED backlighting. But the center of the screen is illuminated as evenly as possible.

  Don’t think we’re trying to frighten you. Mistakes of the creators are invisible to the vast majority of unassuming buyers – this is confirmed by numerous reviews. But you can’t complain about the limited Bluetooth. It is present here, but it is extremely difficult to connect something to it – it supports the minimum number of audio systems. It comes to the fact that it is easier to connect wired headphones, a jack for which, fortunately, is present on the back. Not far from the 3.5-millimeter “jack” are four HDMI-sockets and a pair of USB-ports. Connection to the Internet can also be wired. In fact, this is the only method of connection, which provides a comfortable viewing of online content in 4K resolution. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi does not support the 802 standard.11ac, due to which it lacks bandwidth at certain times.

  Speaking of the World Wide Web, we can’t help but notice the easy entry of URLs and some search queries. For this purpose, on the back of the remote control is placed a QWERTY-keyboard, which is very convenient to use. Otherwise, it is just a regular remote that has no pointer function or voice commands.

  The device allows you to connect either a cable TV or a satellite dish. On the stand the TV is held by an elegant D-shaped stand. The sound is produced by two 10-watt speakers – in this respect this model is unlikely to surprise you with something. In short, it is a very good option for your money. As you may have noticed, competitors with similar characteristics cost a good ten thousand rubles more.

  Advantages

  • 4K resolution;
  • Low for such a diagonal cost;
  • Ambi backlighting is implemented;
  • ght;
  • Not bad viewing angles;
  • There is support for all digital TV standards;
  • A large number of HDMI connectors;
  • Elegant design.

  Disadvantages

  • Deleting channels is not possible;
  • The remote could use some smart features;
  • Not a high level of contrast;
  • Wi-Fi does not understand the 802 standard.11ac;
  • Selective Bluetooth module;
  • Someone will not have enough of the third USB-port.

  BBK 50LEX-6027/UTS2C

  Rating: 4.6

  

  Many people prefer to buy LCD TVs from the three most famous brands. But still we have to admit that such devices have a slightly inflated price tag. Alas, not all people in Russia can boast of a large salary. If your funds are also very limited, it is better to look at cheaper TVs. For example, a good model with 49.5-inch screen was presented by Chinese company BBK Electronics. In Russian retail this LCD TV is priced at 26 thousand Euros. Rouble., Which for this diagonal is quite acceptable.

  So, what the buyer has to put up with? First, with a rather wide framing – this immediately catches the eye. Secondly, with not the highest reliability – we would not count on a decade of service life (although a percentage of manufactured copies will last even longer). Thirdly, you will definitely have to fiddle with the settings – by default the colors on the screen will be incorrect. Fourthly, the Android TV operating system does not work too fast here. However, if you only use YouTube, it will not be difficult to get used to the firmware. Finally, there is a very weak sound. Smart TV is quite large, but the speakers inside it are only 8 watts.

  Like the models discussed above, the BBK company product is able to boast of 4K resolution. However, if you want to watch a film in this resolution, you will have to cheat. The fact that the installed operating system copes with the playback of such heavy content with great difficulty. The problem can be solved, as they say, with a tambourine dance.

  The manufacturer does not specify what technology is used to make the matrix. However, there are virtually no complaints about the picture quality in the reviews, so we can safely say that the unpretentious buyer is sure to be satisfied with the display. There is even support for HDR, albeit in a somewhat stripped-down form. You can download content in many ways. To use DLNA you will need to install an app that supports this technology. Connection to the World Wide Web is carried out either via wire or Wi-Fi 802.11n. You can also use external image sources, like a game console. Three USB-ports and the same number of HDMI-connectors are provided for their connection. Also the Chinese have not forgotten about the headphone output.

  The weight of the device is said best of all about the simplest components – it does not exceed 10.4 kg, and this is already taking into account the stand!

  Advantages

  • Not a bad display with a large diagonal;
  • The TV is quite light;
  • A decent number of connectors for such a price;
  • There is an opportunity to connect headphones;
  • Supports all standards for digital TV.

  Disadvantages

  • The picture is better not to zoom;
  • There is no Bluetooth;
  • Uncomfortable remote control;
  • Very weak sound;
  • Wi-Fi does not support the 802 standard.11ac;
  • The operating system lacks the power of the installed components.

  The best Smart TVs on WebOS

  LG OLED65C7V

  Rating: 4.9

  

  One of the most expensive TVs in our rating. Its high price is due to the presence of an OLED matrix. Organic LEDs do not require a separate layer of backlighting, due to which the television panel is extremely thin. Also contributed to the almost infinite contrast – black here is exactly as it should be.

  The diagonal of the screen installed here is 64.5 inches (164 cm), and the width of the frame is minimized. Oddly enough, even such a huge TV can be held by a stand. Although no one will argue that it is better to hang it on the wall. Large size allows us to recommend this model to be installed only in big halls, so it is definitely not the best choice for a bedroom or children’s room.

  The matrix used here has an increased frame rate. It has a positive effect on viewing dynamic content. Also Smart TV can boast of perfect HDR support, because the color depth is brought to 10 bits. It is possible to watch video on the OLED screen by means of Internet connection. To do this, of course, Wi-Fi 802.11ac. However, no one forbids to use wired connection to your router, if it seems more stable. As for the interaction with other devices the creators have placed four HDMI-sockets and three USB-ports on the back wall of OLED-TV. Perhaps you do not need more.

  This model has two TV tuners that allow you to watch cable, terrestrial and satellite television. But practice shows that owners of these TVs prefer to watch high-quality content, such as HDR-movies. As for the sound, it is produced by four speakers with 10 watts each. A separate subwoofer, which allows you to achieve an ideal bass, not drowning out the voice of people and other sounds. If you have a home theater or soundbar, you can use the optical audio output. There is no headphone jack, but hardly anyone would want to use a wired accessory with such a huge TV.

  WebOS works here without any complaints. It is felt that the South Koreans have not spared money for a powerful processor and a sufficiently large amount of memory. To control the system you can use voice commands, a special pointer (its movements affect the gyroscope) or traditional button presses on the remote control.

  Advantages

  • It comes with a handy Magic Remote;
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are available;
  • Not a bad, if not perfect audio system;
  • The contrast is perfect;
  • OLED screen has a high refresh rate and 10-bit color depth;
  • Smart TV works perfectly;
  • There is support for all digital TV standards;
  • A large number of connectors;
  • Thin framing.

  Disadvantages

  • Very high cost;
  • Some customers complain about the stability of the signal reception via Wi-Fi.

  LG OLED55B7V

  Rating: 4.8

  

  Another OLED TV with Smart TV in this ranking, already much more affordable. In Russian stores, this device is offered for 100 thousand rubles. rub. It is easy to guess that this TV will not have the largest diagonal. Indeed, the buyer is waiting for 54.6 inches (139 cm). This is the minimum with which to start a modern OLED-TV. But we must admit that even that would be a lot for some small room.

  It goes without saying that the screen is able to boast a full-fledged 4K resolution. Contrast is perfect; on a screen like this, black is the truest. The display also has a 10-bit color depth, thanks to which HDR videos show the maximum possible. Not to mention the high refresh rate, which makes dynamic scenes very smooth.

  The operating system used here is WebOS. This means that the buyer will enjoy the intuitive operation. Slowness is practically eliminated, especially if you do not forget to update the software to a newer version. Comes with the TV comes with a proprietary remote-pointer Magic Remote.

  Of course, such a device could not do without high-speed wireless modules. Against this background is not upsetting the absence of 3.5-millimeter jack – in any case is much easier to use Bluetooth-headphones. But four HDMI-sockets and three USB ports cause only happy feelings, because with them you can forget about the AV-receiver. For sound output four speakers with 10 watts each are used here. If this does not seem enough, the optical audio output, which connects to the soundbar or home theater. Also on the back panel you can find a couple of antenna inputs – they are designed for watching terrestrial, cable TV, and, of course, “satellite.

  It seems that the capabilities of this Smart TV for many people is enough. If the standard models have not a very high margin of brightness, here, this parameter is increased exactly twice. That is why you will quickly notice OLED TV standing on the shelf next to the devices which have a less advanced screen.

  Advantages

  • Large OLED display with 10-bit color depth;
  • Supports an increased refresh rate;
  • 4K resolution;
  • Built-in satellite TV tuner;
  • Normally working operating system;
  • The package includes an advanced remote control;
  • Good built-in acoustics;
  • Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
  • Many connectors.

  Disadvantages

  • High cost;
  • LAN port speed is only 100Mbps.

  LG 49SJ810V

  Rating: 4.7

  

  Some people will definitely call this TV the best among those that do not have QLED or OLED matrix. We are, however, not so categorical. Nevertheless, this model certainly couldn’t help but enter our rating of the best Smart TVs. At the disposal of this device has an IPS panel, the diagonal is 49.5 inches (126 cm). It supports Nano Cell, which allegedly makes the picture brighter. Unfortunately, if you look at the matrix under a microscope you will notice that the green, red and blue subpixels are joined by white. This has a negative impact on color reproduction – if you can achieve natural colors, then only a very long fiddling with the settings. Also in a direct comparison with another 4K TV it may seem that the picture here is a bit blurry.

  However, there is no need to be frightened. There is a lot of buyers who are 100% satisfied with this device – the numerous positive reviews only confirm it. This model looks great thanks to its slim frame and elegant arched stand. Viewing angles are close to maximum viewing angles (but you might still notice some picture fading). There is also a mode that makes the picture smoother and this also has a positive effect on perception. On the back of the TV there are three USB-ports and four HDMI-connections, which is more than enough for connecting game consoles and other equipment. Not forgotten is the Ethernet port, needed for a wired connection to the router. But for this purpose it is much easier to use Wi-Fi 802.11ac (one day Expertology will tell you about the best routers that support this standard).

  In terms of sound LG 49SJ810V Smart TV will not offer anything unusual. It has two built-in speakers with 10 watts each. If you want to achieve the maximum experience from watching movies, it is better to buy a soundbar or home theater. This model can also boast a pair of TV-tuners, which indicates the possibility of connecting a satellite “dish.

  It remains to add that the product has very low power consumption – even regular use of the TV almost does not affect the electricity bill.

  Advantages

  • 4K resolution;
  • The TV does a pretty good job with picture convergence;
  • There is support for all digital TV standards;
  • The operating system works without any complaints;
  • It comes with a Magic Remote;
  • Good viewing angles;
  • A large number of connectors;
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 802.11ac;
  • There is a headphone jack;
  • Only 85W power consumption.

  Disadvantages

  • The price tag will not suit everyone;
  • White sub-pixel can make the picture more gray.

  LG 43UJ630V

  Rating: 4.7

  

  The cheapest LCD TV in our selection. That said, there’s also WebOS, a full-fledged operating system that allows you to install a few extra apps. The picture is displayed on IPS-display with a diagonal of 42.5 inches (108 cm). This kind of TV would look perfect in a bedroom or any other small room. The low cost had a negative impact on the width of the frame. Also, not everyone can be happy with the plastic, from which most of the body and the stand are made. On this background it is surprising that such an inexpensive TV set has not been deprived of a satellite TV tuner! Also nice is the fact that the South Koreans splurged on a wireless module that supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac. If this standard was not recognized, I would have to connect the TV to the router via wire – otherwise there would be big problems with online playback of 4K content.

  This model supports HDR. But really, it’s unlikely you’ll notice a major change in gaming when you activate this mode. The fact that it does not use a 10-bit matrix. But even worse affects the HDR display, the very bright backlighting makes black colors not look too natural. And it is not recommended to decrease the brightness – in this case the picture will be too dark. But this is an old trouble of 4K TVs with IPS screen for a reason they cost cheaper than their VA-matrix counterparts, to say nothing of QLED models.

  Audio output is handled by a standard audio system consisting of two 10-watt speakers. In the future you can buy a soundbar or home theater, outputting sound through the optical audio output. If you have wireless headphones, they will also come in handy – the appropriate module is here. And Bluetooth also allows you to use the Magic Remote, which facilitates control. But you’d have to buy it separately, which is a bit disappointing.

  It is actually possible to pick on this Smart TV, but we don’t want to do it. Yes, there are not a record number of connectors built in. But the vast majority of owners of 43-inch LCD panels have only two HDMI sockets occupied, and here there are even three. We can only seriously complain about the matrix structure – LG is using a white sub-pixel. Because of this, color reproduction is rarely perfect. But then again, not every unassuming buyer will pay attention to the dirty white colors that often turn into gray.

  Advantages

  • Screen with 4K resolution;
  • Not a bad working operating system;
  • Fairly decent viewing angles;
  • There is support for all digital TV standards;
  • Built-in Wi-Fi 802 modules.11ac and Bluetooth;
  • The number of HDMI connectors is optimal for this diagonal;
  • Inexpensive.

  Disadvantages

  • The matrix structure is RGBW;
  • Only two USB ports;
  • It comes with a simple remote control;
  • The image smoothing does not always work perfectly;
  • Weak HDR effect.

  Best Smart TVs on alternative platforms

  Sony KD-55XF7096

  Rating: 4.9

  

  Japanese manufacturers of LCD TVs for a long time could not decide which operating system to use in their devices. As a result, a considerable number of devices left the conveyor line of the Sony factory, the functionality of which provides

• nux. In essence, it’s a normal firmware, which is supplemented by some popular services – for example, through this operating system you can open YouTube or some online movie theater. However, do not count on more. The Internet browser is here, but its speed is far from ideal. You must forget about downloading additional applications.

  Well, how does this TV set behave if we forget about its “smart” component?? Almost perfect. On its front panel is an IPS-matrix, the diagonal of which is 54.6 inches (139 cm). There are no white subpixels, and the brightness of the backlight is greatly increased. All this allows you to enjoy a wonderful picture in full 4K resolution, which also has almost perfect viewing angles. For a reason Sony products are usually purchased precisely because of the quality of the image. We should also mention the Direct LED backlight that is used here – it completely eliminates the appearance of instances with backlit edges of the screen. HDR also not bad, although it is not ideal to call the picture in this mode.

  In other respects it is a typical modern 4K TV. It understands all standards of digital TV, including satellite DVB-S2. Three HDMI sockets are used to receive pictures from external sources. The same number of USB-connectors allows you to connect a large number of external drives and peripherals. Or to power the SNES Classic Mini game console. But the manufacturer has economized on wireless modules – bandwidth of Wi-Fi 802.11n is not always enough, there is no Bluetooth at all. It is good that the 3.5mm audio jack is still there, otherwise the buyer would have lost the possibility to connect headphones at all. By the way, the speakers used here are unpretentious 10 watts – in the future you will want to output the sound to something more serious.

  It remains to add that Smart TV is very large, and therefore the power consumption is appropriate. Also this model has the worst image smoothing, when there are black stripes on the top and bottom.

  Advantages

  • 4K resolution;
  • Great viewing angles;
  • Good brightness;
  • There is support for all digital TV standards;
  • Quite a big number of connectors;
  • There is a headphone jack.

  Disadvantages

  • Not the best operating system;
  • There is no Bluetooth;
  • Not the fastest Wi-Fi;
  • High power consumption;
  • The cost will not suit everyone;
  • Comes with an unremarkable remote control.

  Sony KD-55XE7096

  Rating: 4.8

  

  This TV set is not too much different from the one we mentioned above. It’s definitely newer – it’s one of the newest representatives of our rating. The appearance of its stand has changed a lot – now it is D-shaped. And the frames are thinner now. The display is used approximately the same. It has a 54.6 inch diagonal. Viewing angles are maximal, which can not but rejoice. It is also impossible not to note the juicy colors. Not bad here turns out and HDR-effect, although to OLED-TVs it is still far away. Sweep rate here is conventional, but the software method can easily make the picture smoother. But the problem with black bars at the top and bottom is still there.

  Sony is the only TV manufacturer that constantly rushes from one operating system to another. Here Opera TV is installed, which is an atypical operating system designed exclusively for TV. This is already better than

• nux, but the number of available applications of the operating system is strongly inferior to Tizen and WebOS. However, if you only watch online movies and YouTube, you won’t even notice this flaw!

  Smart TV comes with a regular remote control. And how it can be different, if there is simply no Bluetooth? We are happy that at least the headphone jack is present. Well, and access to the Internet is via Wi-Fi 802.11n. But it is better to connect to the router with a cable – it will simplify the online viewing of 4K content.

  It remains to add that the product has a standard audio system consisting of two 10W speakers. If it seems to be not enough, you can use the optical audio output, connecting it to your home theater or soundbar.

  Advantages

  • Beautiful appearance;
  • 4K resolution;
  • Good color rendering;
  • Excellent viewing angles;
  • Three HDMI and USB ports each;
  • There is a jack for headphones;
  • All digital TV standards are supported.

  Disadvantages

  • No Bluetooth;
  • Not very fast Wi-Fi;
  • High cost;
  • Not the best operating system;
  • The most common remote control.

  anasonic TX-55EXR600

  Rating: 4.7

  

  Another atypical representative of our rating. The Japanese producer has installed here Firefox OS. This operating system was originally developed for use on smartphones. However, beyond the release of a few models it did not go further. But now this operating system can be found in some Smart TVs. It differs from analogues with high speed and very small size of the applications. The only pity is that these very programs are very few.

  The screen here is a 139cm IPS panel. Colors are natural, viewing angles are wide enough. However, the contrast is very low – this is the main drawback of all IPS displays. This means that the HDR effect will be barely noticeable. Screen refresh rate is standard, but the software “up-down” works pretty well. In short, the buyer is waiting for an average quality display. The Japanese are inferior to Sony in this respect, but a little bit superior to their South Korean counterparts.

  The product has received support for terrestrial, cable and satellite television. Sound outputs through standard 10-watt speakers. The buyer can get a sound board in the future – it is connected via an optical audio output. There are also three HDMI sockets and a couple of USB ports at the back of the TV set. There is also an Ethernet port. It comes in handy if your router does not support the high-speed 802 802 Wi-Fi standard.11ac.

  Otherwise, this is a typical inexpensive LCD TV. It comes with an ordinary remote control. It does not have Bluetooth. At least the light sensor is not forgotten. However, many buyers prefer to turn it off – not everyone likes a dark picture, which is how it becomes when the light is turned off in the evening.

  Advantages

  • Good viewing angles;
  • 4K resolution;
  • There is support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac;Eats
  • The headphone jack;
  • A fair number of HDMI and USB sockets;
  • Implemented support for all digital TV standards.

  Disadvantages

  • There is no Bluetooth;
  • Not everyone is satisfied with the picture quality;
  • There are questions about reliability;
  • Not a very large number of apps;
  • Conventional remote control.

  Conclusion

  As you might have noticed, we have completely ignored compact TVs with a screen diagonal of up to 43 inches. The thing is that these devices, if they get Smart TV, they work very slowly. This is due to the fact that in small and inexpensive LCD TVs is implemented weak processor and a minimum amount of memory. As a result, their customers quickly stop using the smart functionality, as it causes only irritation. So if you want to enjoy your Smart TV, consider buying at least a 43-inch model.

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