• Panasonic claims AI expansion is rapidly pushing demand for data center backup batteries
• Customers have pre-committed 80% of Panasonic’s production capacity
• Panasonic is assessing its Kansas plant to support additional battery output for data centers

The RAM crisis has been lingering for some time, showing no signs of easing, and it is now spreading into storage, with gaming PC makers warning that CPUs could be next.

While companies struggle to address the impact of this crisis on planning cycles, the pressure is now extending into less visible parts of the data center stack.

Now, Panasonic has said demand for backup batteries is rising quickly, and it is largely driven by the expansion of AI infrastructure that requires stable, continuous power.

Batteries as critical infrastructure

Panasonic says it has already allocated around 80% of its planned output to existing customers, leaving only a limited share for new buyers attempting to scale systems.

Its batteries are designed to sit within server racks, providing short bursts of backup power that keep systems running during brief outages.

But this component now appears to be a key bottleneck, since uninterrupted power is essential to prevent costly downtime and protect critical AI workloads.

As organizations expand their data center operations and add more servers, supporting systems such as power backup are becoming harder to secure within predictable timelines.

This means buyers outside existing supply agreements could find themselves competing for a limited share of batteries, as rising AI infrastructure demand strains production capacity.

To respond to rising demand, Panasonic plans to expand lithium-ion cell production in Japan by approximately three times and adapt parts of its automotive manufacturing lines to produce data center batteries.

It is also evaluating whether its Kansas plant can support additional output for data center applications.

These moves reflect an effort to redirect capacity toward compute-related demand as AI systems continue to expand.

Alongside batteries, the company is working on supercapacitors as an alternative form of backup energy.

Unlike conventional capacitors that release energy almost instantly, supercapacitors store larger amounts and discharge more gradually.

Panasonic says these components will be used “to absorb fluctuations in power load,” with shipments expected to begin in its 2027 financial year.

The company expects battery sales tied to data centers to reach ¥800 billion, approximately $5 billion, by 2029, a figure that assumes continued growth in AI-related infrastructure.

However, meeting that demand depends on production scaling as planned, which remains uncertain given existing supply pressures.

The situation suggests that infrastructure expansion is encountering limits beyond processing hardware — although how sustained these constraints will be, and whether supply can adjust in time, remains uncertain.

Via The Register

If owning a Leica camera is a mere pipe dream for you, you wouldn't be alone. It'll cost you an arm and a leg to bag a camera with the famed red dot, so it comes as no surprise that social media is showing us another way (besides selling a kidney): faking it.

L-mount Rumors has reported a craze in China — which is one of the fastest growing markets for genuine Leica cameras — of customizing Lumix cameras with Leica branding.

One model of choice appearing on Rednote and Weibo feeds, such as those in the images above by Photographer Lifestyle at Xiaohongshu, is the Panasonic Lumix S9, which is a full-frame mirrorless camera available in multiple colors.

Some pimped Lumix S9s merely have a Leica branding sticker attached, while others go the whole way with believable engraving.

It's quite the sight, a customized L-mount camera with both Lumix and Leica branding, but in a way I'm not surprised.

Would you fake it?

Lumix and Leica cameras, especially those of the mirrorless and compact persuasion, already have more in common than you might think.

Their mirrorless cameras are both part of the L-mount alliance. The Lumix S9, which is the affordable model of choice for many camera-tinkerers, features the same 24MP sensor as the Leica SL3-S and both pair with L-mount lenses.

Meanwhile, the Leica D-Lux 8 compact is based on the Lumix LX100 II, with its 17MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and built-in 24-75mm f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens.

For such models, core tech and image quality can be largely the same. However, there are many design and UI differences between similar Lumix and Leica bodies, so a customized Lumix won't feel completely like the real deal.

Asides from lacking authenticity, some of the modified Lumix S9's I've seen, including the above with wooden grip and Leica branding, look pretty good to me! Would you pick up a low-cost Lumix alternative and fake it as a Leica? Let me know in the comments below.

You've landed on our regular, once-a-week, ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) round-up – a place where you can get comfortable, settle down, and have a read through the most significant tech stories that happened since this time last week.

There's been lots happening this week — as there always is — with Samsung's big Galaxy Unpacked showcase the obvious highlight. We saw three new Galaxy S26 handsets, some new wireless earbuds, and lots of AI, and you can read all the details below.

If you're not into Samsung gadgets, we've also got news on a useful Spotify playlist upgrade, a notable OLED TV first, and a tease from Apple about a series of announcements next week — which will no doubt feature in our next ICYMI collection.

7. We saw a promising, world-first OLED TV

A new series of panels from LG should mean that OLED TVs get cheaper overall – from every manufacturer – and we've been casting our eyes over the new Panasonic Z86C. At the time of writing, it's the only TV with one of LG's new panels fitted to it, and while we don't yet have pricing, we are able to share our first impressions with you.

Through demos that included space stations, galaxies, and nebulae (spot the theme), the Panasonic Z86C was definitely able to hold its own in terms of inky blacks and vivid colors. However, we also noticed some minor issues with this world-first television, which we're hoping Panasonic might be able to sort out before it actually goes on sale.

• Read the full story: I saw the first OLED TV with LG's new-gen cheaper panel, and it looks like a nice upgrade — but here's the fine print

6. Spotify got a neat new playlists trick

Spotify doesn't seem to be slowing down when it comes to adding new features inside its apps, and there's now a Smart Reorder tool for you to make use of — as long as you're a Premium subscriber. It takes an existing playlist, then rearranges it based on the beats-per-minute (BPM) of each track, for a more consistent flow from start to finish.

What you should be left with is a playlist structured in a way where every song blends neatly into the next, whether you're in the role of DJ for other people or just listening privately. We've got all the details on how Smart Reorder works, how you can find it in the app, and how it fits alongside the other playlist editing features offered by Spotify.

• Read the full story: Spotify's new Smart Reorder tool gives one of its best features a handy upgrade — and it's already saving me hours of tweaking

5. We crowned 'the best TV show of 2026 so far'

The TechRadar team is more than ready for the second season of Paradise, now streaming on Hulu or Disney+ (depending on where in the world you live). The apocalypse has happened, the survivors are surviving, and the new episodes that have now dropped take the show along new and unexpected turns that you're unlikely to see coming.

In our season two review (which doesn't contain any major spoilers for what's ahead), we praise the narrative energy, the performances of the cast, and the set pieces that pile up — and award the season 4.5 stars out of 5. This could be the best TV show of the year up to this point, so if you haven't yet dived into the Paradise universe, add it to your queue.

• Read the full story: 'Make way for the best TV show of 2026 so far' — Paradise season 2 on Hulu continues to knock an apocalyptic nightmare out of the park

4. Garmin watches got a big software boost

We know that Garmin makes some of the best smartwatches in the business, and it also does a fine job of keeping them updated with new features. The latest to arrive is the Garmin Fitness Coach, now appearing inside the Garmin Connect app and on select smartwatches too, ready to help you in improving your strength and general fitness.

The Fitness Coach has been much anticipated in recent months, and expands the structured plans you can access beyond running and cycling – and as with the previous plans, each of the new options can be adapted to suit your own requirements. There are also some more minor but still welcome upgrades to gear tracking rolling out.

• Read the full story: Huge Garmin update alert! Garmin Fitness Coach arrives in-app and on-watch — and one of my favorite features just got a big boost too

3. We tried the new Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

Before we get to the flagship smartphones that Samsung unveiled earlier this week, we need to talk about the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro wireless earbuds that were also unveiled. We've already spent some hands-on time with both pairs of earbuds, and while they mostly make a great first impression, there are some niggling issues as well.

These earbuds go on sale at the start of next month, so if you're thinking about spending your hard-earned cash on them, read through our hands-on thoughts first. The Galaxy Buds 4 will set you back $197 / £159 / AU$299, while the Pro versions are retailing for $249 / £219 / AU$399 (similar to the AirPods Pro 3), so you can choose according to your budget.

• Read the full story: Hands on: 'I'm loving the audio and design upgrades, but one huge problem remains' — after using Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for one week, there's still an issue

2. Apple teased a 'big week ahead' for launches

If you're an Apple fan, you're in for a treat next week: we're expecting multiple product launches across multiple days, and Apple CEO Tim Cook has upped the anticipation levels on social media, promising a "big week ahead" for the company. We're most likely looking at a selection of new MacBooks and new iPads, and the debut of the iPhone 17e.

What we do know for sure is that Apple has an event of some description in the calendar for Wednesday, March 4, where some of this new hardware should be getting shown off. We will of course be covering all of the announcements as and when they happen, so keep checking TechRadar for the full details of whatever Apple is treating us to next.

• Read the full story: Tim Cook teases 'a big week ahead' and it might just be the arrival of the low-cost MacBook

1.The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra landed with a killer feature

As far as tech headlines of the week go, none was bigger than the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26, led by the premium Ultra model. We've already spent some time checking out the Galaxy S26 Ultra in person, and it comes with a genuinely innovative Privacy Display option that stops other people around you from seeing what you're doing on the screen.

It's a feature that may well be adopted by other phone models going forward. We shouldn't forget the Galaxy S26 and the Galaxy S26 Plus, which also had upgrades worthy of talking about (mostly AI-related, surprising no one). It's the first major smartphone launch of 2026, and now it's over to Apple and Google to see what they've got in return.

• Read the full story: I went hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra — and it has one killer feature even Apple may want to steal

• Amazon's first major Fire TV software rework in five years
• Initially for Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023), Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, and Fire TV Omni Mini-LED
• Rollout is currently US-only; will be expanded in the Spring

Amazon is now rolling out its most exciting Fire TV device upgrade to date, featuring the first major redesign of this software in five years, and some important under-the-hood change that promise to majorly speed up your devices.

The rollout has started in the US, and it looks like Amazon is taking it slow: it's coming to just three devices to begin with. Those devices are the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023, 2nd Gen), the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, and the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED TV.

The update will roll out to more countries and more devices in the Spring of 2026, with third-party Fire TV devices (such as TVs from TCL, Panasonic, Hisense, Insignia and more) getting upgraded too.

What's new in the Amazon Fire TV upgrade?

This isn't just a minor refresh, although everything has been tweaked to make it look better. There's much more room for pinned apps and subscriptions, giving you 20 slots instead of the current six. There's a new streamlined navigation bar too.

One of the key goals of the update is to reduce the amount of time you spend searching for something to watch, with improved recommendations and easier access to live content too.

The focus on watching means that less commonly used features such as games, photos, music videos and the Appstore are tucked away in a three-line hamburger menu.

Alexa+ will enable you to ask questions using natural language, ask follow-up questions and generally chat with Amazon's digital assistant. If it's as good as Amazon says you'll be able to do interesting things such as ask Alexa to recommend movies that have a similar visual style. Alexa+ is included in your Prime subscription; non-subscribers can pay separately to enable the feature.

Perhaps most excitingly, Amazon says that its reworking of the underlying code makes the update "20–30%" faster – and responsiveness has always been an area where Fire TV could use a little nudge.

This also comes hot on the heels of Nvidia GeForce Now cloud gaming coming to Fire TV devices, albeit not quite in the full quality that we'd hoped for – but it's still a great combo.

According to TechCrunch, the spring rollout will cover more countries and more Fire TV models including the latest Fire TV 4K streaming players, the Fire TV 2-Series and 4-Series, and the Omni QLED Series. You'll also have it on the new Amazon Ember Artline TVs.

• LG Display has shown off 'OLED SE' screens – cheaper but brighter for budget TVs
• 120Hz refresh rate and up to 1,000 nits of peak brightness
• Coming in 2026 from "major customers"

When it comes to the best TVs, you know the drill: OLEDs are revered for premium image quality, while mini-LEDs are brighter and cheaper. But LG Display may disrupt that with a new kind of OLED panel it calls 'OLED SE'.

OLED SE is designed for entry-level TVs, and while its specifications aren't even in the same zip code as the Primary Tandem OLEDs of the LG G5, it could be a game-changer for affordable OLEDs such as the LG B5.

Like the panel in the B5, OLED SE has a refresh rate of 120Hz. But it delivers a claimed 1,000 nits of brightness, which is significantly more than the 668 nits we measured on the B5.

However, I should mention here that LG Display claimed that the Primary RGB Tandem panel used in the LG G5 can hit 4,000 nits, but we measured the LG G5 at a maximum of 2,268 nits, so we'll have to see if 1,000 nits is real-world or not.

Still, this could make OLED more competitive for budget-conscious TV buyers who might otherwise go for mini-LED due to its sheer bang-for-buck.

How does OLED SE cut the cost of an OLED TV?

As LG Display explained in a Q&A at CES 2026: "SE retains OLED's pixel-level dimming and core advantages, including superior HDR picture quality, perfect black levels, and outstanding response times, enabling clearly superior image quality compared to LCD TVs in a similar price range."

So why is it cheaper? According to our colleagues at What Hi-Fi?, one of the ways in which LG Display has managed to reduce the price of the OLED SE panels is by going without the polarizer.

Polarizers reduce reflection and glare, but also reduces the amount of light that a panel emits, so by binning it you get more brightness and less cost. The downside, of course, is that you also end up with a more reflective TV.

TV manufacturers could deal with that by adding their own anti-glare layer, and that could be in the form of their own polarizer, or a matte layer like the one used in the Samsung S95F (which we've been told can be inexpensive to apply). These may affe

LG Display doesn't just supply LG: it makes panels for all kinds of manufacturers, including Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, Hisense and Philips. It said it will be supplying OLED SE to "major customers" in 2026.

LG Display told FlatPanelsHD that it will be making the OLED SE panels in five sizes to begin with: 48 inches, 55 inches, 65 inches, 77 inches and 83 inches.

Those sizes just happen to correlate with the five sizes of the LG B5, and of course they're generally the most popular sizes of mid-range or high-end TVs. So it feels like a safe bet that we'll see OLED SE in the LG B6 – but LG has told us that we won't really hear more about that TV until the spring.

Welcome to my guide to the best TVs you can buy today. I manage TechRadar’s TV and projector testing program and have 20-plus years of experience testing TVs. During that time, I have witnessed key shifts in TV technology, from standard-definition to high-definition and 4K, and from CRT and plasma to OLED and mini-LED.

Today’s TVs offer dramatically better picture quality compared to ones you could buy as little as three years ago, with significant improvements in brightness, high dynamic range, motion processing, and even built-in sound.

With so many good TVs on the market, the main challenge with TV buying, as I see it, is finding the one that suits your particular budget level and use case. Are you a movie fan who wants a TV that can deliver a picture exactly as a director intended? Or maybe you’re a sports fan who wants a TV that will look good even with your room lights turned on.

My intent with this guide is to feature TVs that provide the best fit for specific purposes, and to present options that suit a range of budgets at different sizes. If you're wondering about other TVs not featured in my list, you’ll be able to read about those, and the reasons why they didn’t make the cut, in the Also Consider section of this guide.

Why you can trust me and TechRadar

At TechRadar, TVs are tested on-site, by our TV review team led by me – I'm an ISF-trained video calibrator with 20-plus years of AV product-testing experience.

I have trained our staff reviewers to use industry-standard testing equipment to measure parameters such as TV brightness and color accuracy, and to balance them with subjective aspects of picture and sound quality, because measurements can only take you so far in determining a TV’s overall performance.

Our evaluation process goes beyond just picture quality to encompass features, audio, gaming performance, and overall value. Ratings are provided for various sections in our tests, and measurement graphs that also feature comparable TVs, so you can see how well – or not – a TV fares against its competition to aid your decision-making.

TechRadar has been conducting product tests for 17 years and reviews more than 1,300 products per year. My team alone reviews on average 35 TVs each year, and that includes everything from budget 32-inch models to 100-inch-plus size TVs.

The best TVs, listed

The best TV for most people

If pressed to choose a single TV that fits every viewing need, from movies to sports to gaming, I would select the LG C5. This TV has the high-level of picture quality and features one would expect from a more expensive TV, but it delivers that at a more affordable, mid-range price.

The main benefit of the LG C5 is its OLED display panel. When I’ve viewed movies and TV on the C5, the rich, detailed shadows and powerful contrast that LG’s OLED tech uniquely delivers gave the picture a stunningly realistic quality. Gaming on the C5 is also a thrill, with the TV’s smooth, lag-free performance during fast-paced battle sequences creating a vivid sense of immersion.

On the features front, LG’s new Alpha 9 Gen 8 AI Processor in the C5 brings a modest picture brightness boost over its LG C4 predecessor. The C5 also features a 2.2-channel, 40W Dolby Atmos speaker array, and it can be counted on to deliver reasonably punchy sound with clear dialogue.

LG’s latest-gen smart TV platform, webOS 25, introduces a bevy of AI-enhanced features for content searching and automated picture and sound setup. When we reviewed the C5, we appreciated how the updated smart interface can be personalized for different household members, with a new Voice ID feature automatically switching to customized settings. Another standout webOS feature is LG’s Quick Menu, which allows for easy onscreen access to a range of TV adjustments as the program you’re watching remains visible in the background.

While it does just about everything well, the C5 stands out as a gaming TV. Input lag is an impressively low 9.2ms, and all four of its HDMI ports support 4K 144Hz, Dolby Vision gaming, FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync. You can also play cloud-based gaming apps on the C5, with great options such as Xbox, Amazon Luna, and Nvidia GeForce Now.

The C5 really earns its designation as the best overall TV by doing many things right, and doing it at a reasonable price compared to premium OLED TVs.

Read our full LG C5 review

LG C5 test results

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The best TV under $500

When friends ask me to recommend a good, cheap TV, my go-to is the Roku Plus Series. Plus Series TVs are the mid-range offering in Roku’s TV lineup, and they strike a sweet spot between performance and value.

Much of that performance comes from the Roku Plus Series’ mini-LED backlight, which is a rare feature at this price point. Combined with the TV’s QLED display panel, this creates pictures with strong contrast, detailed blacks, and rich colors. Yes, plenty of other TVs can deliver those picture-quality advantages, but the 55-inch Plus Series model does so at an under-$500 price point.

Another big Roku Plus Series benefit is its appealingly simple smart TV interface. I’ve tested TVs from every major brand, and for me the Roku smart TV platform stands out by being visually uncluttered and easy to navigate. Roku TVs can do all manner of things, from searching content based on voice commands to controlling smart home devices like video doorbells and lights, but if you’re simply looking to get to the apps and shows you want to watch, few TVs make it this easy.

With a standard 60Hz refresh rate instead of the 120Hz rate preferred by Xbox series X and PlayStation 5 gamers, the Plus Series provides just average gaming specs. However, an Auto Game Mode kicks in when a gaming console input is selected, and the TV’s measured 11.5ms input lag is impressively low for a TV at this price, resulting in smooth and responsive gaming.

Otherwise, Roku Plus Series TVs offer a good range of features, including both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range support. When I reviewed the 55-inch Plus Series TV, I found the picture quality to be impressive for the price, making it a great budget TV option.

Read our full Roku Plus Series review

Roku Plus Series test results

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The best TV under $1,000

Hisense TVs typically deliver outstanding picture quality for the price, and the Hisense U8QG is no exception. I was thoroughly impressed with U8QG’s picture when I reviewed it, but it also awarded it a rare five out of five star rating for value. If you want a fantastic TV but want to keep the budget to under $1,000 (the 55-inch model currently sells for that amount, and the 65-inch regularly drops below $1,000 during sales events), the Hisense U8QG is one I’d easily recommend.

What most impressed me about the U8QG is that its screen brightness rivals, and even beats, TVs that cost significantly more. Its mini-LED backlight’s precise local dimming control works well for high dynamic range images – both the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ formats are supported – making shadows look deep and bringing out fine detail in picture highlights. Colors also looked rich on the U8QG when I tested it, and its anti-reflection screen, along with its high brightness, makes it a good choice for daytime sports viewing.

The Hisense U8QG uses Google TV for streaming, and that smart TV platform provides benefits such as integration with a Google account for personalized recommendations and onscreen control of Google Home smart home devices. Gaming support includes 4K 165Hz, along FreeSync Premium Pro, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ gaming across the TV’s three HDMI 2.1 ports.

When I tested the U8QG, I was less impressed with its 4.1.2-channel, 72W speaker array, which isn’t the equal of its excellent picture. It delivered clear dialogue and good immersion with movie soundtracks, but I found issues with the TV’s built-in subwoofer. Even so, with the money you’ll save buying the U8QG over a more expensive mini-LED TV, you’ll have enough left over to buy a good soundbar.

Read our full Hisense U8QG review

Hisense U8QG test results

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The best cheap big-screen TV

I’m not usually prone to recommending you buy a brand’s top model when splurging on an ultra-big-screen TV, but I’m also not going to suggest you buy the cheapest model just to make the purchase somewhat affordable, because the results won't be great. What makes the TCL QM6K special is that it's the least expensive TCL TV with a mini-LED backlight, a feature that, in my experience, helps immensely to improve picture brightness and contrast, especially at large sizes.

The QM6K series is available in screen sizes up to 98 inches, with the 85-inch model regularly discounted to under $1,000, and the 98-inch model priced just above $2,000. Those are fantastic prices for a big-screen TV with this level of picture quality.

The QM6K is also feature-packed compared to other budget big-screen TVs I’ve tested. Along with its mini-LED backlight, it supports both the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats and is IMAX Enhanced. The QM6K uses the Google TV smart TV platform for streaming and also has hands-free voice control using Google Assistant.

Sound quality of the QM6K’s built-in speakers is just average, but when you’re going with a screen this big, I’d normally recommend upgrading it with one of the best soundbars. When TechRadar reviewed it, we found gaming to be a treat on the QM6K, which supports up to 4K 144Hz VRR (with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync) and 288Hz at 1080p resolution.

I can’t think of a better big-screen value than the TCL QM6K. You can get a brighter and somewhat better picture by buying one of the company’s pricier series, such as the TCL QM8K, but I’m confident that many people will be happy with the picture put out by the QM6K, and they’re sure to be happy about the price.

Read our full TCL QM6K review

TCL QM6K test results

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The best OLED TV for bright rooms

When I first laid eyes on the Samsung S95F, I knew that Samsung had created something special: an OLED TV with a bright-enough picture to compete with mini-LED TVs. The S95F’s bright picture and its Samsung OLED Glare Free screen, a tech that proved very effective at eliminating screen glare in bright rooms when we reviewed it, combine to make this a TV that can do double duty for movie watching and sports viewing.

Now on its second generation, the Glare Free screen used in the S95F not only eliminates distracting mirrored reflections, but it’s also able to maintain the strong contrast and deep black levels that OLED TV fans like myself appreciate about OLED display tech. Beyond that, Samsung’s NQ4 AI Gen 3 processor for the S95F brings a range of AI-based enhancements to improve detail, upscaling, and motion handling, and it can even upscale standard dynamic range content to high dynamic range, making all manner of pictures look good.

Samsung’s Tizen smart TV interface is one of the best around, and it sees several enhancements in the S95F. The main one is the addition of homepage hubs for gaming and productivity apps, along with an Ambient portal that lets you subscribe to the $5/monthly Samsung Art Store to access up to 3,000-plus artworks to display when the TV is in standby mode. A new quick menu also provides easy access to frequently used picture adjustments and user settings on the TV.

Gaming is another S95F highlight. It features Samsung’s Gaming Hub, which houses apps from Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now and others, and provides four HDMI ports that support 4K165Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming . A built-in 4.2.2 channel, 70W speaker array delivers clear dialogue, and Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound+ system ensures that sound effects accurately track the onscreen action.

As Samsung’s flagship OLED TV, the S95F doesn’t come cheap, but if you’re like me, you want a TV that’s great for both movies and sports, and the S95F is that TV. Also, with its sleek, razor-thin design and Samsung Art Store compatibility, it’s the closest a TV can come to being a work of art.

Read our full Samsung S95F review

Samsung S95F test results

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The best TV for sports viewing

If you’re a sports fan, your viewing needs will be well served by the Samsung QN90F. When I reviewed the QN90F, I was impressed with how good its picture looked when viewing sports in both bright and dim viewing conditions. Much of that had to do with this flagship Samsung mini-LED TV’s high brightness, but another aspect was its Glare Free screen, which virtually eliminated any reflections from my room’s overhead lights and lamps.

High brightness and glare reduction aren’t the only things that contribute to the QN90F’s excellent picture. A Wide Viewing Angle feature makes pictures look uniformly good from any seat in the house. And there’s also Samsung’s excellent AI-enhanced motion processing, which, in combination with its high refresh rate screen, makes fast action plays look solid and blur-free and eliminates the “vanishing ball” effect that lesser TVs can be subject to when displaying sports.

Other features that add to the QN90F’s appeal are a 4.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos speaker that delivers clean, well-defined sound and a built-in ATSC 3.0 tuner to receive NextGen digital TV broadcasts in the US. The QN90F has an almost impossibly slim and appealing design, and it comes with Samsung’s rechargeable SolarCell remote, which powers itself by absorbing available light.

Samsung TVs are among the best for gaming, and the QN90F features four HDMI ports that support 4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming. And don’t worry if you don’t have a gaming console, because the TV’s Gaming Hub houses Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now, and many other cloud-gaming apps.

You’ll pay more for the Samsung QN90F than you would for many competing mini-LED TVs, but if you’re looking for the best TV for sports, and one that’s also fantastic for gaming and movies, you couldn’t do better. I gave the QN90F an overall rating of five out of five stars when I reviewed it, and was genuinely sad to see it go once I finished my testing.

Read our full Samsung QN90F review

Samsung QN90F test results

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Comparison charts for the best TVs

We measure the objective performance of TVs using as part of our testing process, using these figures to help us make a judgment on the picture quality that we're seeing. The following measurements were all taken by our labs or testers, using professional-level equipment and software.

You shouldn't judge a TV based solely on test numbers, but it can be useful to make quick comparisons between them while decided what to buy, so here are the results for all the TVs we rate here together.

First is brightness, measured using both HDR and SDR video, in small areas and fullscreen (which makes a big difference).

Here are our test results for measuring how close the TVs come to supporting 100% of the P3 color range, which is used for HDR video. The BT.2020 range is also used in pro video work, but is less important in general use.

Input lag is the time from when an image enters the TVs HDMI port, to when it appears on-screen. This is important for gaming, because you want action to happen immediately after you press the button, not with a delay. We measure it using a piece of specialist equipment that rapid-fires a blinking image on the screen, and detects the delay.

More TVs to consider

This buying guide reflects only a sample of TVs that TechRadar has recently tested. Here are several other TVs worthy of your consideration, with a description of product highlights and an explanation of why they didn't make the cut for this particular guide.

The best TV brands to buy today

The best TV brand landscape has shifted somewhat over the past few years, with top brands shifting places to a degree on the power rankings chart, and upstart brands such as Hisense and TCL gaining traction. Along with these, we saw the reintroduction of Panasonic to the US TV market, along with new TV brands like Roku and Amazon putting out increasingly higher-quality sets. What follows is a summary of the various TV brands ordered according to their performance in TechRadar’s TV tests.

Judged by its overall performance in TechRadar’s recent TV reviews, Samsung is the leading TV brand. We rate Samsung TVs highly for their picture quality, though we regularly cite the lack of Dolby Vision HDR support as a downside. Samsung TVs are also the strongest when it comes to gaming performance and features, and each yearly iteration introduces new cutting-edge design innovations.

LG TVs earn strong praise for picture quality and features in our reviews, and they also provide one of the best smart TV platforms in webOS. Gaming performance and features are also regularly cited in our LG TV reviews, though the company lags far behind competitors when it comes to mini-LED TVs, leaning instead on OLED for its top TV brand status, which means it doesn't offer strong cheaper options.

Sony shifted its focus from OLED to mini-LED tech for its flagship TVs last year. The company’s flagship TVs are the ones that provide the best picture quality, though they are generally pricier than equivalent flagship models from Samsung and LG. Sony TVs also provide excellent built-in sound quality, though they lag behind the competition when it comes to gaming features and performance, despite providing PS5-centric settings.

Hisense and TCL fit into the middle of our overall TV brand rankings. Both brands provide a range of high-value TVs, with the top models providing excellent overall picture quality and sound quality. Performance tends to drop as you move down the range for each respective brand, however, and the gaming features on their TVs aren’t quite as extensive as what you’ll get from Samsung and LG – but when it comes to good-quality large-screen sets that are affordable, these two are arguably the leaders right now.

Last but not necessarily least, Roku and Amazon both made good showings in our recent reviews. These were for the company’s mini-LED TVs, which offer impressive picture quality at a budget price. We generally praise Roku TVs for their excellent smart TV interface, which is easy on the eyes and intuitive to navigate, while Amazon Fire TVs earn marks for good overall performance and high value.

How to choose the best TV for you

There are lots of complicated terms you'll see when buying a new TV, including in this guide – so to start our generlized buying advice, here's a glossary of the big terms you'll see often.

120Hz/144Hz/165Hz: This is the ‘refresh rate’ of the TV, meaning how many image frames it can show each second. 120Hz means 120 frames per second maximum. Classified as high frame rate (HFR), 120Hz is ideal for next-gen gaming consoles such as PS5 and Xbox Series X, and can also benefit sports viewing. While consoles are capped at 120Hz, some TVs can support 144Hz or 165Hz for PC gaming.

4K: Also known as Ultra HD (UHD), a 4K image consists of roughly 4,000 horizontal pixels – 3,840 in the UHD standard specs used by streamers and 4K Blu-ray, to be precise – by 2,160 vertical pixels, which is four times the amount found in Full HD TVs. Most streaming services now support 4K as do most 43-inches and larger TVs.

ALLM (auto low latency mode): A feature primarily used for gaming where a TV will switch to the optimal game picture mode/settings when it detects a connected gaming console.

ATSC 3.0: Also known as “NextGen TV,” it is a broadcast TV standard created by the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) that supports 4K resolution, high dynamic range, and immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos. ATSC is used by broadcast TV stations in the US, and it requires a TV with an ATSC 3.0-compatible tuner.

ARC: Audio Return Channel. This feature allows for audio signals to be sent from a TV to an HDMI ARC-supported device such as a soundbar or AV receiver via an HDMI connection.

Backlight: The light source that sits behind the display panel in an LED-based TV. Various backlight types include edge-lit, direct, and full-array.

Color gamut: The range of colors that can be displayed by a device within a particular color space such as REC.709, BT.2020 and UHDA-P3. Supporting a wider color gamut means the TV should be able show images closer to the original material.

Direct backlight: A type of backlight that sits directly behind a TV’s panel. Direct backlights can offer better dimming control and black uniformity (the ability to display black tones evenly across a screen) than edge-lit backlights

Dolby Vision: A High Dynamic Range (HDR) format that’s used to dynamically optimize image contrast on a scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis . Dolby Vision is widely used in movie theaters, 4K Blu-ray releases, streaming services and video games.

Dolby Atmos: A 3D sound format that incorporates height channels to create a dome-like immersive effect. Dedicated speakers produce the most authentic Atmos sound, though some soundbars and built-in TV speakers can produce good ‘virtual’ Atmos sound as well.

eARC: Enhanced Audio Return Channel. An improved version of HDMI ARC that allows for transmission of higher-quality, uncompressed Dolby and DTS audio formats over HDMI from a TV.

Full Array Backlight: An advanced backlight design that improves local dimming by partitioning the backlight into small zones, each of which can have their light levels controlled individually. This results in better contrast, higher brightness and reduced backlight blooming effects.

HDMI: A cable standard used to transmit audio and video from a source to a display device. It stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and is the standard connector for TVs now.

HDMI 2.1: The latest HDMI version, and one that allows for transmission of higher-quality, uncompressed Dolby and DTS audio formats, 8K video, and higher video frame rates such as 4K at 120Hz or higher for gaming.

HDR: High Dynamic Range. A video format that allows for images with improved brightness, contrast and color detail. Most newer TVs support some format of HDR, which is used for video games, 4K Blu-ray discs and streaming services.

HDR10: A common, widely used HDR format on 4K Blu-ray players, game consoles, TVs and streaming services.Basically any TV device with HDR will support this.

HDR10+: A less commonly supported HDR format with similar capabilities as Dolby Vision. HDR10+ is supported by TVs from Samsung, Panasonic, TCL, and Hisense, and is used by streaming services such as Prime Video.

HLG: Hybrid-Log Gamma. An HDR format developed by the BBC and NHK broadcasting services that was designed to simultaneously transmit both SDR and HDR signals. It is used for live HDR broadcasting, and is supported on effectively every TV.

Input lag: The time delay between a video or audio signal being sent and actioned by a relevant device. In the case of TVs, it refers to the time between when the TV receives an image from, say, a games console, and when that image is shown on-screen. Input lag is measured in milliseconds (ms), with the lower the number the better. This specification is particularly useful in gaming, where a measurement below 15ms is considered optimal.

Local Dimming: LED and mini-LED TVs with full array backlights may dim darker areas on the screen and accentuate brighter areas, resulting in better contrast by using this ‘localized’ dimming.

Mini-LED: A backlight tech that uses small, almost microscopic LEDs for more efficient and improved dimming and lighting performance over regular LED backlights.

Nits (brightness): A unit of measurement used to evaluate brightness. The peak brightness of LED TVs is typically around 500 nits, QLED TVs roughly 1,000 nits, OLED TVs between 600 and 2,000 nits, and mini-LED TVs may hit 3,000-plus nits.

Neo QLED: Samsung’s name for its range of mini-LED TVs, which combine a QLED display panel with a mini-LED backlight.

OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode. A type of display panel that contains self-emitting pixels that generate their own light, eliminating the need for a backlight. OLED TVs typically have deeper, more accurate black levels than other TV types, because they can dim the light from each pixel individually

QLED: Quantum Light Emitting Diode. An LED display panel with a coating of ‘nanocrystals’ that can achieve higher brightness and brighter, more vivid colors than the ones used in standard LED TVs.

SDR: Standard Dynamic Range. A video production and display standard with more limited brightness, contrast and color gamut coverage compared to HDR. Anything from before the HDR era can be considered SDR.

VRR (variable refresh rate): A tech used primarily in gaming where the display will adjust its frame rate to match the rate of the source device, such as a console or PC, to avoid judder and screen-tearing effects. VRR is particularly useful during high frame rate gaming.

So now you'll need to make a few further decisions. If you're looking at the mid-range or premium end of things, do you want an OLED TV or an LED/mini-LED TV? In sizes 55 inches and up, LED TVs tend to be brighter than OLEDs, and so are great for watching sports or TV during the day in bright rooms. But for movie nights, OLED TVs are the best, thanks to their unrivaled contrast – they just don't go as bright as LED TVs unless you get the most expensive models.

If you're buying a mid-range set, you'll need to decide if you need a 120Hz screen or not. This is great for gamers (especially those with a PS5 or Xbox Series X), and also good for movies because it can show more natural motion. But if you want to save cash, getting a 60Hz TV might be a better idea, because 120Hz TVs always cost more.

And then, spare a thought to sound. Most of today's thin TVs have weak built-in sound. If you don't mind buying one of the best soundbars too (or if you already have one), then don't worry about this. But if you don't want extra boxes in your setup, then focus on the TVs we've recommended where we mention the audio is stronger. Sadly, it tends to be higher-end sets that do this better – but even then, not all are created equal. Sony and Samsung are usually strong for audio, though, so are a good place to start.

Sony is another major player in the TV space. Its screens boast stunning picture quality and build quality. Although, like other brands in this list, there's a wide range across the board. Sony's TVs tend to cost a premium compared to the other brands here for the same kind of features, except Sony's TVs contain some of the best built-in sound in the business, so you do get something extra for that price.

Hisense and TCL are the two makers who've really crashed the party, producing mini-LED TVs for unbelievably good prices that deliver astounding brightness and impressive contrast, with good features. They both use Google TV as their smart platform, which makes them fairly easy to use and ensures all the key streaming services are supported.

How I test the best TVs

Each TechRadar TV review involves a series of objective tests made using specialized test equipment. These are combined with extensive subjective evaluation using both test patterns and real-world sources such as 4K Blu-ray, streamed content, and broadcast TV.

For objective tests, I measure a TV’s peak and fullscreen brightness levels, along with its HDR color gamut coverage. I also measure color and grayscale accuracy, as well as input lag for gaming.

After determining a TV’s most accurate picture preset using objective tests, I perform a subjective evaluation with that preset active to make a general assessment of picture quality, taking into account factors such as contrast, black level, screen uniformity, color, detail, and more. I also assess sound quality, features, design, smart TV and menus, gaming features and performance, and value, with individual scores for each section contributing to an overall rating.

You can get a fully detailed overview of my process in How we test TVs at TechRadar, but here's a summary of the key tests that get performed:

Brightness

Brightness is an important factor to consider when shopping for a TV, for two main reasons. The first is that movies and TV shows with high dynamic range (HDR) can contain super-bright highlights. A TV with a high brightness capability will be better able to reproduce those highlights, which give pictures an enhanced sense of depth and realism. The second reason is that brighter TVs can look better in a bright viewing environment, which is typically the case when watching sports or gaming.

Color gamut coverage

I measure color gamut coverage to get an indication of the range of colors a TV can display. These results are recorded as a percentage, with a 100% score confirming the TV can display the full range of colors that video content with HDR can include.

Color gamut coverage tests include two measurements: UHDA-P3 and BT.2020. The first is to see how well the TV tracks the UHDA-P3 color space used for mastering 4K Blu-ray and digital cinema releases. The second, BT.2020, is a more future-oriented standard, though some new displays, such as RGB laser projectors and RGB mini-LED TVs, are capable of displaying the full BT.2020 color spectrum.

Color and grayscale accuracy

I run grayscale and color accuracy tests to evaluate how well a TV can match the visual intent of the director when a movie was mastered during post-production. These measurements are run with the TV in its most accurate picture preset – typically Filmmaker Mode, Movie, or Cinema – and provide Delta-E values (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) that indicate the TV’s level of accuracy. Any result under 3 is regarded as indistinguishable to the human eye from the source and can be considered excellent.

Input lag

Input lag refers to the time elapsed between a source sending a signal to a display and the display showing it on screen. A low input lag time is a crucial factor for competitive gaming, with a result of 13ms or lower generally considered to be an acceptable result.

To test input lag, I set the TV to its Game picture preset and use a special meter that outputs a test signal to the TV’s HDMI input. The meter is placed on the TV’s screen and measures the time it takes to detect the signal, with the result displayed in milliseconds.

Latest updates to our guide to the best TVs

November 6, 2025
Rewrote this guide from scratch to focus on a smaller number of TVs, to make it easier to choose a new model easily.

August 27, 2025
Replaced the Panasonic Z95A with the newer Panasonic Z95B as our 'Best for sound' top choice based on our recent testing.

July 29, 2025
Replaced the Samsung S95D with the Samsung S95F, a new model with an improved Glare Free screen, as 'Best OLED for bright rooms' option.

July 1, 2025
Replaced Samsung QN90D with newer model, Samsung QN90F, as 'Best TV for sports' option.

May 28, 2025
Replaced Hisense U8N with a newer model, the Hisense U8QG, as 'Best mid-range' option.

April 29, 2025
Replaced Sony Bravia 8 with Panasonic Z95A OLED as 'Best for sound.'

April 1, 2025
Added Quick List for easier guide navigation.

March 12, 2025
Added the Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED and Hisense U9N to 'Also consider' section.

February 14, 2025
Added 'Best TV brands' section with ranked assessments of TV brands TechRadar has reviewed over the past year.

January 15, 2025
Added 'New TVs coming in 2025' section with details on new TV models announced at the CES 2025 tradeshow.

December 24, 2024
Removed the Samsung S90C due to falling stock levels. Replaced it with the LG C4. Removed the best for versatility category.

November 27, 2024
I added more information to the intro about our testing and selection process for this guide, as well as expanding our section of other TVs worth consideration.

November 6 2024
Added the Hisense U6N as the best super-cheap big-screen TV we recommend. We also added a new glossary of TV technical terms, to explain some of the info you'll see when buying a TV.

October 10 2024
Added more comparison tables for the TVs we recommend, based on our testing data and review scores.

September 27 2024
Updated the format of this guide, to provide more detailed information about our verdicts on each TV. Replaced the TCL QM851G with the Hisense U8N based on our review and recent pricing, and replaced the Sony A80L with the Sony Bravia 8 based on our review.

September 4 2024
Replaced the LG B3 with the LG B4 as 'best cheap OLED'.

August 5 2024
Replaced the Roku Plus series with the upgraded Roku Pro series as 'Best budget' TV.

June 10 2024
Replaced the LG C3 OLED TV as 'Best for versatility' with the new LG C4 due to improved brightness and enhanced gaming features.

May 13 2024
Replaced the Samsung S95C as 'Best premium OLED' option with the new Samsung S95D.

April 12 2024
Added a new 'More TVs to consider section', covering other models not in the list, and explaining why they missed the cut.

March 19 2024
Added benchmark charts for every TV, to make it easy to compare performance.

February 26 2023
Expanded the How we Test section to include a more in-depth breakdown of our testing methods for the TVs in this guide.

November 10 2023
Added author bio and link to TechRadar's Best Black Friday TV Deals page.

October 12 2023
Added this 'latest updates' section to keep readers informed of any changes to this buying guide. Updated several products in this list to reflect our latest reviews, and following price cuts and lack of stock of older TVs.

It’s been an excellent year for TVs in 2025, with groundbreaking new OLED and mini-LED sets delivering better-than-ever brightness. It’s been an especially competitive year for flagship OLED TVs, with some close-fought battles between the main contenders from Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic.

I’ve been fortunate enough to test some of the best TVs of 2025, and I’m already looking ahead to 2026. With CES 2026 kicking off the first week of January, we can expect to see big news in the TV world, and I’ll be keeping a keen eye out for announcements from each brand.

In anticipation of CES, I’ve compiled a list of what I’m hoping to see from each TV brand in 2026. Some of this will be answered as early as January, but other details won’t arrive until later in the year.

(A quick note: I’ve not commented on Philips TVs as I’ve not yet had any hands-on time with its 2025 models.)

LG: brighter OLEDs

All three 2025 LG OLED TVs, the G5, C5 and B5, scored highly in our reviews, with the G5 and C5 earning 5 stars overall and the B5 4.5 stars. While I don’t have many complaints about these TVs, there's one change I’d like to see in the successors to the B5 and C5 in 2026: higher brightness.

In our testing, the LG B5 had a measured peak HDR brightness of 688 nits (Filmmaker Mode) and fullscreen HDR brightness of 172 nits (Standard mode). Both of those are average brightness results for an entry-level OLED. I’d love to see more brightness from the new B-series model, to give HDR highlights more punch, and to make it easier to view in brighter rooms.

While the C5’s peak brightness is solid, reaching 1,180 nits in our tests, its fullscreen HDR brightness is under 200 nits. As flagship OLEDs are now going past 350 nits, it would be great to see higher fullscreen brightness from LG’s C-series in 2026. Whether this will come from a new panel design – as we thought we’d be getting in the LG C5 – we’ll have to wait and see.

Samsung: lower Neo QLED pricing

Samsung OLED TVs had a fantastic year, with the flagship Samsung S95F being named TechRadar’s TV of the Year 2025. Its flagship Samsung QN90F Neo QLED (mini-LED) earned five stars overall in our review and proved itself to be a phenomenal TV.

One area where Samsung needs to improve in 2026 is the pricing of its entry-level and mid-range mini-LED TVs. The Samsung QN80F, which I awarded four stars overall in my review, cost $1,299 / £1,399 (roughly AU$1990) for the 55-inch model on release. The TCL QM7K/C7K, in contrast, cost $999 / £799 / AU$1,699 mere weeks after its release, and it was the better-performing TV of the two.

While Samsung’s TVs do carry more smart and gaming features, these often aren’t enough to justify the large price gaps between Samsung and TCL and Hisense’s sets.

TCL: gaming support

TCL’s TVs have seen consistent improvement over the past couple of years. TCL TVs were among the best I tested in 2025, particularly the mid-range C7K (QM7K in the US), but there is one area where they could improve further: gaming features.

Don’t get me wrong: TCL’s mini-LED TVs have fantastic gaming features already, with all sets supporting at least 4K 144Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro and Dolby Vision gaming. However, input lag seems stuck around 13.5ms, and while Hisense TVs used to have similar performance, 2025 models like the Hisense U8QG had sub-10ms results in our testing. TCL TVs are also limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports, so it would be good if that number were bumped up to four.

TCL’s TVs do still compete with the best gaming TVs and have great features for their price, but with a few improvements, they could become the ultimate budget-friendly gaming sets.

Hisense again delivered excellent TVs in 2025, with the Hisense U8QG and Hisense U75QG in particular impressing us with their staggering brightness and refined local dimming. But, there’s one area where Hisense could take notes from TCL and Samsung: viewing angles.

We measured the Hisense U75QG’s peak brightness at 3,372 nits (in Standard mode) and its fullscreen brightness at 887 nits. Such high brightness makes it a great TV for daytime viewing, including sports. However, in our testing we noted that when viewed off-axis, the U75QG’s picture quality decreases, and that’s the case for the whole Hisense range. It’s a shame that a TV with this much to offer stumbles when it comes to viewing angles.

Viewing angles used to be a problem with most mini-LED TVs, but over the years, brands, including Hisense’s major affordable rival TCL, have found a way to address it. This is one area where I’d love to see Hisense improve in 2026. I tested the 116-inch RGB mini-LED, and its viewing angles seemed better, so hopefully this can be carried over to the standard mini-LED lineup.

Sony: a cheaper QD-OLED

The Sony Bravia 8 II, which uses a QD-OLED display panel, received numerous accolades in 2025. It earned a four-and-a-half-star overall score from TechRadar’s Al Griffin in his review, and it fared well in my four-way OLED TV comparison. Sony has adopted a bi-annual cycle with its TVs, and I think it’s about time for a cheaper QD-OLED.

Sony’s previous mid-range OLED was the Sony Bravia 8. It’s a great TV, but it was released in 2024 and realistically struggles to compete with LG’s C-series. Samsung had success in 2025 by incorporating QD-OLED in its step-down Samsung S90F 65-inch model, which has brighter pictures than the rival LG C5, but for a similar price.

A mid-range QD-OLED with Sony’s built-in audio pedigree? Now that would be amazing.

Panasonic: higher brightness

I chose the Panasonic Z95B as my favorite flagship OLED of 2025 after comparing it to other models in a four-way OLED showdown. I loved its contrast-rich picture, powerful built-in sound and sleek design. But one area where I felt there was a missed opportunity was brightness.

I’m talking specifically about the Z95B’s brightness in the default Movie and Filmmaker Mode settings. While the brightness can be bumped up, I found during testing that this affected the Z95B’s picture accuracy. It turns out this was intentional by Panasonic, which decided to prioritize accuracy over brightness in the Z95B.

The Z95B uses the same Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel as the LG G5, which hit a peak brightness of 2,268 nits in Filmmaker Mode in its default settings when we tested it. The Z95B’s peak brightness in the same mode: 992 nits. At that level, the Z95B’s contrast wasn’t quite as striking as I’d have liked. A brightness boost, even a slight one, would make Panasonic’s next flagship even better.

Although ultra-light laptops exist everywhere, and while most manufacturers see around 1.2kg as light enough, Japanese PC makers have spent years shaving off every possible gram even going so far as to redesign the chassis, battery, and internal layout from scratch.

For this feature, I’ve rounded up ten Japanese laptops that all weigh under 1kg. These aren’t proof of concept devices or engineering demos either - they are real Windows laptops with proper keyboards, modern processors, and a wide range of ports that you could buy today.

Yes, some tradeoffs have been made along the way to get to the featherweight svelteness on display, but Japan has mastered the art of balancing form and function.

Some of these machines are the latest models, others are updated versions of recent lines, but all of them show how far Japanese makers are willing to go when weight is treated as one the primary aims rather than a secondary goal.

1. Fujitsu’s FMV UX-K3

The FMV UX-K3 is one of the lightest 14-inch Windows 11 Home laptops available, weighing about 634g in its very lightest configuration. It uses carbon fiber and magnesium-lithium alloy to keep weight down while still feeling solid.

The 14-inch 1920 x 1200 IPS display has anti-glare treatment. Inside is an Intel Core Ultra 7 255U processor with 12 cores, 16GB of memory and a 512GB SSD. Graphics are inevitably integrated.

Ports include two USB-C, one USB-A, HDMI, a microSD reader and a LAN port. It also has Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

The battery can manage around seven hours of video playback, helped by a small 31Wh pack.

It is listed at around ¥280,280, which works out to roughly $1,804 on Fujitsu’s Japanese store.

2. FMV Zero Lifebook WU5/J3

The FMV Zero Lifebook WU5/J3 also weighs about 634g and employs a rugged carbon body.

It offers choices of Intel Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 processors, up to 64GB of memory and up to 2TB of SSD storage. The 14-inch 1920 x 1200 display is paired with a full-size HDMI port, two USB-C, two USB-A, Ethernet and a microSD reader.

It has Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. This model trades battery capacity for weight, but still delivers a full-Windows experience.

Pricing varies with configuration at Fujitsu’s Japan-only web shop, starting around ¥154,800, the equivalent of $997, for base configurations.

3. Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N

The Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N sits just under 1kg, appealing to users who want a business-class laptop that's exceptionally light. It sports a 14-inch 1920 x 1200 display, Intel Core Ultra-family processors, up to 32GB of LPDDR5X memory and up to 1TB of SSD storage. Graphics are integrated.

It also includes Thunderbolt 4-capable USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet and a microSD reader. Wireless connectivity is handled by Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

In our review, we praised its user-swappable battery, great ports, built-in AI features, and a high durability rating, which we said made this a "serious contender in the world of portable laptops, especially for those on the go all day long."

4. Dynabook RA73/VY

This 13.3-inch Dynabook laptop weighs about 849g in its lightest configuration and uses a magnesium alloy chassis.

It offers AMD Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7 processors, up to 32GB of memory and up to 1TB of PCIe SSD storage. The 1920 x 1200 display keeps things compact without feeling cramped.

Ports include two Thunderbolt 4-capable USB-C connectors, two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, a microSD reader and a headphone jack. There is support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

Optional security and connectivity extras like fingerprint recognition and cellular modems are available in some trims. Prices in Japan vary by configuration but are generally in the mid to high range for ultraportables.

5. iiyama PC STYLE-14FH124-C5-UCEX

This sub-1kg 14-inch laptop uses an Intel Core 5 120U processor with 10 cores and 12 threads, paired with 8GB of memory and a 500GB NVMe SSD in its base configuration.

The 1920 x 1080 display is non-glare, and graphics are handled by the integrated Intel solution.

It includes Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen2 and Gen1 ports, HDMI, a microSD slot, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth.

Prices for the base version in Japan are from the equivalent of $707 upwards.

6. iiyama PC STYLE-14FH124-C5-UCFX

This is a lightly updated variant of the previous laptop, keeping the same sub-1kg frame but with 16GB of memory and a 1TB SSD.

It uses the same Intel Core 5 120U CPU and 14-inch FHD display as the base model. The port layout is identical with Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen2, USB 3.2 Gen1, HDMI and microSD.

It also has the same wireless support. Pricing for this configuration in Japan typically sits above the base model, often around $835.

7. Dynabook G8, G6, and GS

Dynabook’s G-series covers three closely related 13.3-inch laptops that all target the same goal, keeping weight around 849g without stripping out everyday features.

The G8, G6 and GS models share the same basic chassis and layout, with differences largely coming down to processor tier and configuration.

Most versions use Intel Core Ultra processors, with the G8 typically paired with Core Ultra 7 and the G6 and GS using Core Ultra 5 options. Memory is 16GB LPDDR5X, with SSD storage at 512GB. Graphics are integrated, which keeps thermals and power draw under control.

The display across the range is a 13.3-inch 1920 x 1200 non-glare panel. Despite the low weight, port selection is good. It includes two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, two USB-A ports, HDMI, Ethernet, a microSD slot and a 3.5mm audio jack. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.

Pricing varies by model and configuration.

8. Dynabook RZ/MX

The Dynabook RZ/MX differs from the lighter G-series (above) because it offers a 14-inch display. Weight is listed at around 899g, which makes it one of the lightest laptops in its size class.

The chassis uses lightweight alloys while keeping a more traditional business laptop shape.

It comes with Intel Core Ultra 7 processors paired with Intel Arc graphics, which helps it handle heavier visual workloads than most ultra-light machines.

Typical configurations include 16GB of memory and a 512GB SSD. The 14-inch display is 1920 x 1200 with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a non-glare finish.

Ports include two USB-C with Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, a microSD reader and a headphone jack. Wireless support covers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.

9. Panasonic Let’s Note SC

Panasonic’s Let’s Note SC uses a smaller 12.4-inch display but focuses on durability, battery flexibility and connectivity rather than chasing the lowest possible weight. Even so, it still comes in at roughly 900g.

The display runs at 1920 x 1280 with a 3:2 aspect ratio, which suits document work and browsing. Current configurations use Intel Core Ultra processors, including Core Ultra 5 and Core Ultra 7 options, paired with 16GB of memory and SSD storage starting at 512GB. Graphics are integrated.

One defining feature is its removable 56Wh battery, which is rare in modern ultra-light laptops. Port selection includes USB-A, two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, HDMI and full-size Ethernet.

10. iiyama PC STYLE-14FH124-i5-UXPX-CP

Another sub-1 kg configuration from the iiyama PC line. This model comes with an Intel Core i5-1335U processor with 16GB of memory and a 500GB SSD. The 14-inch Full HD display and lightweight chassis keep this model portable without trimming out everyday essentials.

Its port selection includes Thunderbolt 4, USB ports, HDMI, microSD and audio along with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth.

Prices for this specific configuration in Japan usually land in a similar ballpark to other mid-range iiyama models, at around $1,000.

I'll admit it: when I used to think of premium televisions, I'd default to big brands like LG, Samsung, Sony and Panasonic. It's not that I wasn't aware of the many alternative brands out there but, in my mind, if you wanted premium pictures, those mainstream brands were the ones to go for. That's no longer the case.

Increasingly, brands like TCL and Hisense have been taking the fight to the industry giants, often delivering sets that can rival them for color, clarity and brightness for less money. That piqued my curiosity, so when I saw my colleague and TV Hardware Staff Writer James Davidson had given TCL's 65-inch mini-LED screen 4.5 stars in his TCL C8K review, I decided I had to check it out.

My last TV purchase was firmly from a mainstream brand. I bought the Panasonic HX800 back in 2020 – despite a list price of £899 (around $1,200 / AU$1,810) for the 50-inch version, it was reduced down to around £650 (around $870 / AU$1,310), making it a real steal. Conversely, when I recently picked up the 65-inch TCL C8K (or TCL QM8K as its known in the US), it had a list price of $2,499.99 / £1,599 / AU$2,495, making it much pricier in terms of outlay. However, I’d argue it’s crammed with upgrades that make it worth the extra spend, especially as similar quality would cost me significantly more.

So how does it feel swapping from a mainstream TV set to a challenger brand? Pretty great, as it turns out. However, there are still one or two things I've noticed the

TCL C8K vs Panasonic HX800: bright spark

Naturally, as this was my first time owning a mini-LED TV, the first thing I noticed was that screen. Calling the TCL C8K ‘bright’ hardly does it justice – it’s incandescent. Out of the box, it can hit an HDR peak brightness of 4,500 nits. While that’s with its Boost peak brightness mode enabled, that is impressively bright for a mid-market TV, even beating the 2,086 nits of Samsung’s flagship mini-LED TV for 2025, the QN90F.

Another factor I’d say gives it the edge over my older Panasonic HX800 is its contrast. Thanks to that mini-LED tech, it offers discrete dimming zones totaling 1,680, compared to the HX800’s edge-lit design, while also rocking both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. As a result, the range between dark and light honestly blew me away – while watching Blue Planet 2, the bold contrast between a cuttlefish’s scintillating zebra stripes took my breath away. Yes, I might get an even bolder contrast from an OLED but possibly not this level of brightness, making the C8K a worthy investment.

Color is also an area in which the C8K shines – quite literally – thanks in no small part to its impressive Quantum Dot colour system. During our testing, the TCL’s color gamut was able to hit 96.8% of the DCI-P3 and 78.8% of the BT.202 color spaces, which is excellent coverage for a TV at this price point.

From my perspective, it feels like a huge upgrade over my five-year-old HX800. While the Panasonic always impressed me with its faithful color that aimed to reproduce filmmakers’ original intent, the C8K is lush and vibrant. When I watched The Green Planet, the shock of hot pink in the underwater forests of Macarenia in Colombia’s Caño Cristales really imprinted itself on my retinas – the TCL offers a lot of moments of eye candy like this.

TCL C8K vs Panasonic HX800: it’s play time

Sound still can often feel like an afterthought for many TV brands, with them offering thin, insubstantial built-in sound for their sets. Fortunately, I’ve been pretty lucky on this front – Panasonic is one of the few manufacturers that ensured its cheaper TVs produced at least decent sound.

And with the C8K, TCL has gone further: developed by premium audio brand Bang & Olufsen, its soundsystem has serious presence and impact. In fact, during late night gaming sessions, it might have a little too much oomph for its own good: it took me quite a long time to find the right combo of settings to lessen the massive thuds and smashes of spells and counters hitting during Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, for example.

Probably the only area where the C8K’s sound lets it down is in when it comes to the width and height of its soundstage. Despite the inclusion of its separate ‘sky channel’ for pumping sound vertically off the ceiling, I honestly could not hear much arriving from outside of the area of the screen. That’s not a huge failing in my book, as getting TVs to recreate convincing spatial audio effects is pretty tricky – while there are options that can smash out convincing Dolby Atmos, like the Panasonic Z95B or Sony Bravia 9, I still wouldn’t say immersive sound is a given on most sets, whether it’s from a challenger or a mainstream brand.

The C8K’s gaming features have also been a significant upgrade for me, as it’s absolutely crammed with them. Given I plug my gaming PC straight into my living room TV, features like 4K@120Hz and VRR make my games run silky smooth, while ALLM reduces how long it takes for any inputs to register on screen. While you’ll get these features from most mainstream brands, the TCL offers them across all four HDMI 2.1 ports, which is not always a guarantee with cheaper TVs. That’s fantastic, as it means if I ever want to pick up a current-gen console, I’ll be able to plug both that and my PC in at the same time without having to constantly swap cables.

TCL C8K vs Panasonic HX800: the smart set

Even compared to the Panasonic HX800, the TCL C8K is crammed full of smarts. However, some of these features aren’t quite as razor sharp as those offered by big-name brands. Unfortunately, I do feel this is one area where economies of scale can favor the mainstream brands like LG and Samsung.

First off, I’d describe the C8K’s upscaling as decent, rather than exceptional. Don’t get me wrong: HD content often looks very palatable, even if it doesn’t quite have the same gorgeous richness as 4K content. But while the HX800 made a surprisingly sophisticated stab at polishing up SD content, the C8K seems to struggle to thread the needle between poorly defined details and over-sharpening edges into cut glass.

Part of the reason for this in my opinion is that mainstream big brands have some serious AI punch to put behind upscaling. Both Panasonic and LG have spent years now honing their upscaling algorithms and it shows – there seems to be far more AI-driven interpolation going on to smooth over gaps in missing data from low-resolution sources. While TCL has done some impressive work elsewhere on boosting color and brightness, to me it seems a little bit behind on the AI arms race.

I’d also say that its operating system can be a bit of a mixed bag. It’s miles ahead of the one I’ve been used to using on the Panasonic HX800 – although that’s partly because comparing TV interfaces from 2020 and 2025 is very much comparing apples and user-unfriendly oranges. Built on the Google TV OS, it allows me to access TV shows from a range of apps on my home screen, resume previous watches and see suggestions, all things that were bafflingly lacking in the older Panasonic OS.

Unfortunately, the version of Google TV packaged up with the C8K still has odd oversights that I find surprising these days. For example, it doesn’t offer full access to the Google Play Store, meaning there were some UK streaming apps I simply couldn’t access, despite the fact their own sites listed them as available on Google TV. Yes, I could sideload these or load them onto a streaming stick but the point of a smart TV interface is to avoid this kind of hassle.

I might have found this less of an inconvenience if it wasn’t for one other issue. During setup, Google TV doesn’t shy away from talking about how seamless its AirPlay connectivity is. So I thought this would give me a handy workaround, allowing me to stream any missing apps directly from my phone. Unfortunately, try as I might I could not get AirPlay to detect the TV as a source – even once it was setup via HomeKit, all the settings were enabled and everything was on the Wi-Fi, I still could not get it to appear in the list of sources, something I’ve never experienced with AirPlay before.

This might be the biggest issue with adopting a challenger brand in my mind. TCL has made truly impressive headway in beefing up things like brightness, bold colors and bassy sound because investing in these areas are the most immediately appreciable ways it can compete with the industry giants. Most of us see a gorgeously bright and vibrant screen in a showroom and we’re blown away by the performance a challenger can eke out for a relatively modest price. By contrast, unimpeachable software and incremental AI improvements represent more marginal gains that may not be the first choice for investment when trying to create premium performance for a competitive price.

Don’t get me wrong: none of this means I don’t love my new TCL C8K. It’s truly stunning, well designed and offers many of the features I’d expect from the biggest brands at a price that’s just that little bit affordable. But the big brands still absolutely have a place in the market.

Black Friday is still a couple of weeks away, officially arriving on November 28, but there are already excellent deals available, including on some of 2025's top OLED TVs.

2025 has seen some of the best OLED TVs released, and I've personally tested most of the TVs on my list of 9 deals below.

Whether you're looking for an entry-level model or a flagship powerhouse, I've found an early Black Friday deal to suit you.

Today's best Black Friday OLED TV deals in the US

• LG C5 55-inch OLED: was $1,266.95 now $1,196 at Amazon US
• LG B5 65-inch OLED: was $1,176.99 now $996.99 at Amazon US
• Samsung S90F 65-inch QD-OLED: was $1,997.99 now $1,397.99 at Amazon US
• LG G5 65-inch OLED: was $2,497 now $1,997.99 at Amazon US
• Sony Bravia 8 II 65-inch QD-OLED: was $3,299.99 now $2,298.99 at Amazon US

Today's best Black Friday OLED TV deals in the UK

• LG C5 42-inch OLED: was £1,099.99 now £849 at Amazon UK
• LG B5 48-inch OLED: was £999.99 now £749 at Amazon UK
• Sony Bravia 8 II 55-inch QD-OLED: was £1,999 now £1,799 at Currys
• Panasonic Z95B 55-inch OLED: was £1,799.99 now £1,699.99 at Currys

LG C5

The LG C5 is one of the best TVs I've tested this year, filling the shoes of its excellent LG C4 predecessor brilliantly.

I was impressed by the C5's picture quality during my testing, as it delivered crisp, contrast-rich and colorful images. Whether it was dark movies such as The Batman or bright, colorful movies such as Wicked, the C5 displayed images with real accuracy. It's also got strong motion for sports and has great brightness for a mid-range OLED to add punch to HDR highlights.

The C5 is also one of the best gaming TVs of 2025, with four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K 144Hz, AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, HGiG, ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming. I found gameplay itself smooth and responsive during chaotic battles in Battlefield V, thanks to the C5's ultra-low 9.2ms input lag time.

The C5 is excellent value, even at full price, but it's already got some superb discounts. In the US, you can get the 55-inch C5 for $1,196.99 (was $1266.99), a near record-low price, at Amazon US and in the UK, you can pick up the 42-inch C5 for a lowest-ever £849.99 (was £1,099.99) at Amazon UK.

LG B5

The LG B5 OLED delivers a full stock of smart and gaming features, along with great picture quality, at an affordable price.

When I tested the LG B5, I was surprised by how accurate and punchy its picture was for an entry-level OLED TV. Its strong contrast was perfect for movies such as The Batman and Alien: Romulus and its vivid color benefited movies such as Elemental. While it doesn't have the high brightness of more premium OLEDs, it delivers in every other way.

The B5 is also an accomplished gaming TV, with four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K 120Hz, VRR (FreeSync and G-Sync included), Dolby Vision gaming, HGiG and ALLM. With an ultra-low 9.2ms input lag time, I found its performance responsive for even the most fast-paced battles in Battlefield V.

The B5 is already one of the cheapest ways to get a great OLED TV, but with Black Friday around the corner, it's got some great deals in both the UK and US. In the US, you can pick up the 65-inch B5 for $996.99 (was $1,176.99) at Amazon US, and in the UK, you can pick up the 48-inch B5 for 48-inch B5 for £749.99 (was £999.99) at Amazon UK.

Sony Bravia 8 II

The battle for the best flagship OLED TV has been a tough one in 2025, but the Sony Bravia 8 II is a serious contender thanks to its great picture quality, strong built-in sound and good list of features.

When we tested the Bravia 8 II, we found its picture quality to be amazing, with natural colors, bright highlights and deep blacks for movies such as Civil War, brilliant motion handling for sports and great upscaling of older movies and TV shows.

The Bravia 8 II also delivers punchy built-in sound, with clear voices and accurate mapping of audio to the action on screen.

Sony's TVs are usually priced at a premium compared to rival models from the likes of LG and Samsung, but the Bravia 8 II is better priced than previous Sony TVs and some early Black Friday deals make that value even better. In the US, you can get the 65-inch Bravia 8 II for $2,298.99 (was $3,299.99) at Amazon US and in the UK, you can get the 55-inch Bravia 8 II for £1,799 (was £1,999) at Currys.

LG G5

The LG G5 is the brand's flagship OLED TV in 2025 and, equipped with a new 'four-stack' OLED panel, it delivers staggering brightness for an OLED, along with the stellar gaming performance LG's OLEDs are known for.

The G5 delivered excellent picture quality during our testing, particularly with its deep blacks and strong contrast in scenes from shows such as Severance. The G5 also displayed brilliant upscaling, earning a clean sweep of votes in TechRadar's blind four-way OLED showdown. But where the G5 really grabs headlines is with its brightness: delivering 2,268 nits, it's the brightest OLED TV we've tested to date.

The G5 is a fantastic TV for gaming. It has four HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync, HGiG, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM. It also has a low 9.2ms input lag time for ultra-responsive gameplay.

The LG G5 is one of the best-priced flagship OLED TVs of 2025, and this early Black Friday deal knocks even more money off. The 65-inch G5 is available for $1,997.99 (was $2,497.99) at Amazon, a $500 saving and a record-low price.

Samsung S90F (65-inch)

The Samsung S90F is a brilliant mid-range TV with a QD-OLED panel that delivers phenomenal picture quality, and it's also equipped with a full suite of gaming features.

When we tested the S90F, we were impressed by its rich blacks, powerful contrast and high brightness for a mid-range OLED (it hit over 1,500 nits in our tests). It also delivers vibrant colors and crisp textures. It's worth noting that not all S90F screen sizes use the more premium QD-OLED panel, but the 65-inch model does.

The S90F is also great for gaming, with support for 4K 144Hz, FreeSync and G-Sync (the latter a first in Samsung TVs), ALLM, HGiG and HDR10+ gaming. It boasts an ultra-low 9.2ms input lag, which means gameplay feels fast and responsive.

The 65-inch S90F is already a great value due to its QD-OLED panel, but this Black Friday deal takes the 65-inch S90F down to $1,397.99 (was $1,997.99) at Amazon.

Panasonic Z95B

The Panasonic Z95B is a phenomenal flagship OLED TV that delivers premium picture and sound quality. With Black Friday approaching, it's now similarly priced to its rivals, making it a much more tempting option.

When I tested the Z95B alongside as part of our four-way OLED showdown, I preferred its picture over any other TV. It delivered natural, refined textures, bold color, and strong contrast, with deep blacks and punchy highlights. It doesn't have the brightness of its rivals when set to its Movie mode or Filmmaker Mode, but it does display excellent accuracy in those picture presets

The Z95B's sound is immersive, punchy and detailed thanks to a built-in 5.1.2 channel speaker array that delivers 160W of power. Its ability deliver Dolby Atmos soundtracks with precision was evident in movies we watched like Mad Max: Fury Road.

Panasonic's TVs usually come at a premium, but the Z95B is priced more competitively this year, and this early Black Friday deal takes the 55-inch Z95B down to a record-low price of £1,699.99 (was £1,799.99) at Currys.

No, your eyes do not deceive you: the Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player is down to £285 (was £349) at Amazon. This isn't the lowest price it's ever been (it hit £249 before), but it is the cheapest it's been in years.

• Shop Amazon's full Prime Day sale

Amazon Prime Day ends at midnight tonight, so you only have a few hours left to capitalise on its deals. This Panasonic UB820 offer may be one of the best I've seen. A 19% discount may not seem like much, but when discounts on the best 4K Blu-ray player on the market are this rare, you take every one you can get!

Today's best Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player Prime Day deal

The Panasonic DP-UB820 earned five stars in my review because it's quite simply the best bang for your buck 4K Blu-ray player on the market. It has a full range of features including both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support (a rarity at this price point), built-in Wi-Fi and hi-res audio capabilities. Its picture reproduction is superb, with excellent upscaling and plenty of picture settings for SDR discs to give them an uplift.

My own story with the UB820 goes back to before I joined TechRadar. In my previous job in AV retail, the UB820 was the player of choice to run discs all day, displayed to 20 TVs at once, and in the near three years I was there, it kept on going.

Now as TechRadar's TV tester, it's the player I use when reviewing the best TVs. The UB820 is a workhorse plain and simple, delivering consistent performance while delivering excellent picture reproduction and near-full disc playback (SACD fans will need to look elsewhere unfortunately).

Looking for a new TV to hook up your new UB820 to? Check out some of today's best TV offers below.

Prime Day TV deals

More of today's best Prime Day deals

• Amazon Devices: from £19.99
• Blink: cameras from £14.49
• Fire TV Stick: from £19.99
• Kindles: up to £70 off
• Laptops: from £149.99
• Ring: up to 60% off cameras & doorbells
• Tablets: Fire Tabs from £49.99
• TVs: from £169.99

Amazon Prime Day has arrived and runs today and tomorrow, October 7-8, and I've been searching through all the best Prime Day TV deals with one area in mind: OLED TVs. And thankfully, there's more than a few good offers around.

• Check out Amazon's full Prime Day sale

Of the deals I've seen so far, for the US and UK, one deal comes out on top: the LG C5. In the US, you can get the 65-inch LG C5 for a record-low $1,372.99 (was $2,696.99) at Amazon US. If you're in the UK, you can get the 48-inch LG C5 for £972 (was £1,199) at Amazon UK. Both these deals are record-low prices and easily two of the best OLED TV deals today.

As one of TechRadar’s TV reviewers, I’ve tested a ton of different TVs over the years. I’ve also been around for more than a few Prime Days, so I know which deals are best to look out for.

OLED TVs always get big discounts during Prime Day. I’ve tested nearly every new OLED TV in 2025, even putting four flagship models side-by-side, and with this year’s selection, we’re spoilt for choice.

It can be tough to know just which OLED TV to buy during Prime Day, so I’ve picked five of the best OLED TVs you should keep an eye on over the coming days. Some of these sets have already hit record-low prices, while some will hopefully get some offers.

1. LG C5

Surprise, surprise, the LG C5 gets the best deals of Prime Day so far, with discounts across the whole size range, including a number of record-low prices. This is easily the best range of deals so far for the the best bang-for-your-buck OLED TV on the market. While there aren’t major changes from its LG C4 predecessor, there didn’t really need to be.

The C5 delivers excellent picture quality for the price, with vibrant colors, strong contrast, realistic textures and refined detail. It even ups peak brightness over its predecessor (1,180 nits to the C4’s 1,065 nits). Whether it's movies, TV or gaming, the C5 delivers on picture quality.

Elsewhere, the C5 carries everything you’ll need for gaming, including 4K 144Hz, VRR (Freesync and G-Sync), HGiG, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM, with all features supported across four HDMI 2.1 ports. With an ultra-low 9.2ms input lag time, the C5 is one of the best gaming TVs.

The C5’s webOS smart TV platform is intuitive and responsive, and it's got a sleek, modern design. Built-in sound is its weakest link, but it's still pretty solid.

2. LG C4

It feels like the end of an era, as the LG C4 has been a consistent discount certainity over Prime Day since 2024, but now stock is thin and the LG C5 has taken the C4's place. This will likely be your last chance to grab the LG C4!

Much like its C5 successor, the LG C4 ticks all the boxes and does so for better value than any other OLED TV. It currently sits at the top of nearly every TechRadar TV best-of list, and that’s because it really is the best value TV on the market.

Picture quality, sound quality, design, gaming – you name it, the LG C4 has it. It really does deliver the best bang for your buck and is top notch for movies, TV shows and gaming.

3. Samsung S95F

If you've been looking at getting an elite OLED TV, Prime Day seems to be the perfect time, as the Samsung S95F has had big discounts. While the offer in the UK is certainly the most impressive, the $400 you save in the US is a healthy saving in its own right!

The Samsung S95F is Samsung’s flagship 2025 OLED TV. It may be one of the most unique OLEDs on the market thanks to its Glare Free 2.0 screen, which reduces mirror-like reflections for easy daytime viewing.

The S95F’s Glare Free screen greatly improves on its predecessor, the S95D. Blacks are deeper and more accurate, resulting in more powerful contrast. It also delivers bright, vivid colors, and its refined, crisp textures give images a 3D-like look.

The S95F carries a full set of gaming features, including 4K 165Hz, VRR(FreeSync and, for the first time, G-Sync), and ALLM, all across four HDMI 2.1 ports. The Samsung Gaming Hub is also an excellent portal for cloud-based services such as Xbox and Luna.

Its sleek, slim design is another highlight, with the One Connect Box external connection box providing a great way to keep cables tidy. The S95F’s built-in sound has pinpoint accuracy, and Samsung's Tizen smart TV platform is the best it's ever been.

4. Panasonic Z95B

Panasonic is traditionally pricier than its OLED rivals, but even its getting in on the Prime Day discounts! To net such a big saving on this OLED TV is a welcome sight and in the UK, it's cheaper than all of its major rivals for Prime Day.

Panasonic’s flagship OLED TV, the Z95B, was the top pick in a four-way OLED showdown test I conducted, and is my overall top TV pick for 2025. While it may not have as many features as its LG and Samsung rivals, it excels in handling the video and audio fundamentals.

The Z95B’s colors are rich and deep, and it has superb contrast and shadow detail, natural textures and solid upscaling. With a 5.1.2-channel speaker system, including an external bar for left, right and center channels, the Z95B’s sound is powerful, precise and expansive enough that you don’t need a soundbar. As far as all-in-one TVs go, the Z95B sits at the very top.

Its design may be thicker than rivals, but that’s necessary for housing its substantial built-in speakers. The Z95B’s Fire TV interface is intuitive and it has a good amount of gaming features, including 4K 144Hz, VRR, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM.

5. LG B4

LG’s most affordable OLED TVs, the B-series, deliver an awesome set of features and great performance for cheaper than any other OLED. Stock may be running low for the LG B4, but there are still some deals to be had. Realistically, this is likely your last chance to pick up the LG B4, especially for these sorts of prices.

The B4, a 2024 model, delivers the deep blacks and strong contrast OLED fans love, and has natural, rich color. It lacks the brightness of step-up OLEDs, but really does deliver in every other area, making it a superb option for movies and TV.

The B4 even comes with a full suite of gaming features – 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming – as well as the same ultra-low 9.2ms input lag time as the LG C4. It's got a solid design, a smooth and user-friendly webOS smart TV platform, and a full suite of connections, including four HDMI 2.1 ports.

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More of today's best Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire TV Sticks from $25
• Apple: AirPods + iPads from $99
• Beauty: Oral-B, Philips & Dyson from $9
• Clothing: 50% off Nike, Adidas & Levi's
• Halloween: decor, PJs, candy & more from $5
• Headphones: up to 50% off Beats, Apple & Sony
• Kitchen: save on Ninja, Breville & Instant
• Laptops: Windows and MacBooks with big discounts
• Phones: up to 25% off Google & Samsung
• Smartwatch: up to 30% off Samsung & Apple
• Tablets: Apple, Amazon & Samsung from $139
• TVs: $1,500 off 4K, QLED, and OLED TVs
• Vacuums: Shark and Bissell from $49.99

More of today's best Prime Day deals in the UK

• Amazon Devices: from £19.99
• Blink: cameras from £14.49
• Fire TV Stick: from £19.99
• Kindles: up to £70 off
• Laptops: from £149.99
• Ring: up to 60% off cameras & doorbells
• Tablets: Fire Tabs from £49.99
• TVs: from £169.99

Prime Day may be next week, but there's already some early deals. The 65-inch model of my favourite OLED TV of 2025, the Panasonic Z95B, is available for £2,299 (was £2,999) at John Lewis.

• Check out John Lewis' full sale

The Panasonic Z95B is one of 2025's best OLED TVs, delivering a detailed, natural picture, weighty built-in sound and nearly every smart and gaming feature you could need.

Today's best Panasonic Z95B deal

In our Panasonic Z95B review, we praised it for "pushing accuracy" in favour of brightness. That's because brightness has been capped in its most accurate picture modes (Filmmaker Mode, Cinema), but it's worth it. The resulting picture is detailed with powerful contrast, deep blacks and punchy colours.

I tested four flagship OLED TVs side-by-side: the Z95B, the LG G5, the Samsung S95F and the Sony Bravia 8 II. Of these, the Z95B was my top pick. No matter what content was on screen, my eye was drawn to the Z95B's true-to-life picture.

Where the Z95B also stands out from the crowd is with its built-in sound. Housing a 5.1.2-channel speaker system, its sound is powerful, displaying controlled bass and convincing spatial audio with Dolby Atmos soundtracks. This is one of the few TVs where adding one of the best soundbars isn't a requirement.

For an at-home cinema experience, it doesn't get much better than the Z95B. It even delivers solid gaming performance and features and comes with Fire TV built-in. Even its design, though chunkier than rivals, is sleek and has a premium look.

More of today's best Prime Day deals

Looking for other early Prime Day deals? You can check out Amazon's full sale here, with some links to different categories below.

• Amazon Devices: from £19.99
• Blink: cameras from £14.49
• Fire TV Stick: from £19.99
• Kindles: up to £70 off
• Laptops: from £149.99
• Ring: up to 60% off cameras & doorbells
• Tablets: Fire Tabs from £49.99
• TVs: from £169.99

• Panasonic's longest-reaching telephoto zoom, up to 500mm
• Works with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, extending reach up to 1000mm
• Industry-leading 7EV optical image stabilization performance

Panasonic finally has a super telephoto lens in its L-mount lineup following the introduction of the Lumix S 100-500mm F5-7.1 O.I.S.

Designed to work with full-frame cameras such as the Lumix S1 II, the 100-500mm is the first lens by Panasonic that zooms up to 500mm, plus it works with Panasonic's 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, increasing that zoom range up to 1000mm.

I've used numerous telephoto zooms with this sort of focal length range before – including the Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S – and they are a versatile choice for enthusiast wildlife photography and grassroots sports.

The 100-500mm has multiple features that grabbed my attention when Panasonic presented the lens to me. For one, it is particularly compact and lightweight for this type of lens, measuring just 7.72inches / 196.1mm in length and tipping the scales at 2.83lb / 1,285g.

It also looks like it will handle really well, with a rugged weather-resistant design, an array of useful external controls for zoom and focusing, plus what Panasonic says is industry-leading optical stabilization (OIS) performance.

Thanks to a new dual-ball support, OIS is rated up to 7EV. Paired with a Lumix camera and sensor-based stabilization, I would expect unmatched image stabilization performance (in the full-frame sensor format), ideal for handheld use.

An all-new Tight-Smooth ring adjusts the zoom tension, providing the response you need based on the scenario, from delicate smooth zooms for filming to fast changes. The lens can also switch between a linear and non-linear response, meaning it's possible to manually focus while zooming.

Minimum focus is 2.62ft / 0.8m at the wide end or 4.92ft / 1.5m when zoomed in, delivering a 0.36x maximum magnification – that's some decent close focusing skills. Autofocus is supposedly quick, accurate, and silent, while focus breathing is suppressed, too.

Overall, the lens looks like it will handle beautifully for stills and video and for a range of scenarios. However, there's one major drawback for me – the maximum aperture.

At 100mm, the maximum aperture is f/5, while at 500mm it's reduced to f/7.1. I have no problem with the aperture regarding depth of field – it'll be shallow enough to isolate subjects and make for lovely background blur at those focal lengths.

The problem I have is the shutter speeds available at those focal lengths. If I'm photographing wildlife, I want the biggest possible aperture for the fastest possible shutter speeds to freeze the action, and the 100-500mm is limited in this regard.

That maximum aperture also limits the usefulness of the teleconverters, which only further reduce the maximum aperture available by 1 and 2 stops, respectively.

I've not had my hands on the lens yet, so I cannot comment on the optical quality either, but let's review its price and where it sits among the other telephoto lens options now available for L-mount cameras.

A compelling telephoto?

The Panasonic Lumix S 100-500mm F5-7.1 O.I.S lens costs $2,099 / £1,799 / AU$3,699 and sales start in October (November in Australia). That pricing, when considering the limited maximum aperture, indicates the kind of super-sharp optical quality I'd expect.

It fills a big gap in Panasonic's full-frame lens range, becoming the top super telephoto L-mount Panasonic lens, with the longest reach. However, the L-mount alliance comprises 10 members, most of which make lenses that are directly compatible with Panasonic cameras. These included Sigma, Leica, and, most recently, Viltrox.

Sigma alone offers a number of alternatives: the 500mm F5.6 prime, which is just a little heavier and longer than Panasonic's, but way pricier by 50%.

Then there's the versatile 150-600mm F5-6.3, which is much heavier and much larger, but around 50% cheaper – don't expect optical quality to match Panasonic's either.

Probably the most obvious alternative is the Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3, which costs just 10% more and has a wider zoom range. However, it is 100% heavier and 50% longer.

When you consider those alternatives, it's clear that Panasonic has prioritized a compact and rugged design and excellent handling, at the cost of a bright aperture. If that major drawback doesn't put you off, then Panasonic's 100-500mm could well be worth looking into.

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2025 is shaping up to be an excellent year for TVs, particularly for flagship OLED models. LG, Samsung, Sony and Panasonic have all released superb OLEDs that scored at least 4.5 out of 5 stars in our reviews, mainly for their stunning picture quality.

We were fortunate enough to have the LG G5, Samsung S95F, Panasonic Z95B and Sony Bravia 8 II, all under one roof in the TechRadar testing room, so we naturally had to compare them, pitting some of the best TVs of 2025 against one another.

We first held a blind OLED TV showdown with a group of casual viewers, and in that test, the Samsung S95F and LG G5 emerged as the top performers. In that showdown, we judged the TVs based on the following categories: dark scenes, color, action, upscaling and sports.

Around the same time, Value Electronics, a major US retailer, held its own blind OLED showdown using the same four TVs, but in that test, they were judged on SDR and HDR accuracy using a blend of test patterns and real-world content. The results between the two showdowns were very different (though there were similarities), with the Sony Bravia 8 II being crowned the winner in the Value Electronics test.

With the four TVs still remaining from TechRadar’s test, I decided to do my own showdown, but this time focusing mainly on movies and dark room, home theater-type viewing.

The setup

For my showdown, I put all four models in Filmmaker Mode (Professional on the Sony Bravia 8 II), but still used the out-of-the-box settings as we did in the Techradar blind showdown. As in that test, brightness optimization for each TV was turned off.

I judged the TVs on the following categories: color, brightness, shadow detail/contrast, bright room viewing and upscaling. I also used 4K discs and movie scenes that I regularly use when reviewing TVs.

In all photos, the order of the TVs from left to right is as follows: Panasonic Z95B, Sony Bravia 8 II, Samsung S95F and LG G5.

Color

To test color on the TV, I used the Wicked 4K Blu-ray, particularly the Wizard & I musical scene, as it showcases bold, vibrant colors, particularly when Elphaba stands underneath a pink tree.

This was the closest-fought category in my whole showdown. All four TVs delivered excellent colors that were not only punchy but true-to-life as well. However, the Samsung S95F had the boldest colors, doing the best job of displaying the pink flowers, Elphaba’s green skin, and blue details on the wall behind her.

Colors appeared more natural on the Sony Bravia 8 II than the other models, and I could see strong highlights in the pink flowers and Elphaba’s green skin. Colors on the Sony appeared a little more flat, with less depth than the other sets, however.

Although the S95F’s colors had the most pop, I also found myself drawn to the Panasonic Z95B and LG G5, two TVs that share the same Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel. On both, colors still had a vivid quality plus gorgeous depth. The Z95B and G5 arguably had the better balance between dark and light colors as well.

This was a tight contest between four of the best OLED TVs I’ve seen, but for my money, the Z95B delivered the best color, balancing depth and detail with a more natural profile.

Shadow detail/contrast

To test shadow detail and contrast, I used my reference 4K Blu-ray of The Batman, primarily the opening crime scene in Mayor Mitchell’s house. With low mastered brightness (400 nits compared to the industry standard of 1,000 nits), The Batman can be a real torture test for some TVs. Even on OLEDs, blacks can look washed out, and black crush (a loss of detail in dark areas) can rear its ugly head.

Viewed in dimmed lighting conditions, all four TVs demonstrated very good contrast, with a good balance between lamps and torches and the dark areas in the picture. The LG G5 and Samsung S95F had powerful contrast in this scene, while contrast on the Panasonic Z95B and Sony Bravia 8 II was more natural looking.

All these TVs demonstrated strong shadow detail, maintaining textures in dark areas of the picture, such as the paintings on the wall and Batman’s eye and logo as he faces away from the light. I did find that the Sony Bravia 8 II and LG G5’s black levels looked raised in places, taking on a more gray tone and the S95F exhibited some minor black crush.

In pitch black viewing conditions, all TVs once again demonstrated excellent black levels. I watched scenes from both The Batman and Alien: Romulus, and the G5’s black levels appeared more raised compared to the other sets. Of the four, the Panasonic Z95B drew my eye the most, maintaining the best contrast and black levels.

Brightness

For brightness, I watched the same Wicked scene I used for color, along with later shots where Elphaba runs through a wheat field under bright sunlight. I also used demo footage from the Spears & Munsil UHD Benchmark 4K Blu-ray.

Despite their brightness differences in HDR Filmmaker Mode (in their default settings the G5 measured 2,268 nits, the S95F 2,132 nits, the Bravia 8 II 1,439 nits and the Z95B 992 nits), all four sets displayed strong highlights. With their higher peak brightness, the S95F and G5 clearly had the advantage in both Wicked and Spears and Munsil, especially in shots with the sun on a horizon, but the Bravia 8 II, which struggled on this test when set to Cinema mode in TechRadar’s blind showdown, did a very good job too.

Shots of a snow-covered field from the Spears and Munsil disc again showed that all four TVs could handle bright whites without losing detail. As Elphaba ran across the field in Wicked, the beige hues were accurate on all four sets, though my eye was more drawn to the S95F and G5 in brighter scenes.

Bright room viewing

For bright room viewing tests, I used a darker movie, Alien: Romulus, to see how these OLEDs handled bright lighting conditions in our testing lab. I picked two scenes: one early on, where the crew takes off into space, and a second in a dark hallway near the Alien nest.

The S95F was the best at eliminating mirror-like reflections thanks to its Glare Free screen, but the Bravia 8 II also did a very good job of eliminating them. The Z95B and G5 both suffered from mirror-like reflections, with objects in our testing lab visible on screen in any darker scenes of space in Alien: Romulus.

Despite this, I found the Z95B and G5 delivered the richest black levels and most accurate contrast in bright lighting, showing a good balance between the orange of the planet and the black of space in Alien: Romulus. Black level accuracy of the S95F and Bravia 8 II, on the other hand, was impacted by the bright room lighting conditions.

Upscaling

For my final test, upscaling, I used the same The Amazing Spider-Man DVD from TechRadar’s blind OLED TV showdown.

All the sets did an excellent job of upscaling, giving the movie a detailed and 3D-like look. But the G5’s picture was significantly brighter and more eye-catching than the other TVs when displaying this DVD. The Z95B and Bravia 8 II’s upscaling did appear to be the most precise, however.

It’s worth noting that the G5 has its SDR brightness set to 80 of 100 by default in Filmmaker Mode, whereas the other TVs have much lower default brightness in that mode. Upping the brightness on the other TVs is possible, but it does affect picture accuracy. Bottom line: I found the LG G5 best for watching lower-resolution content like DVDs.

Final thoughts

It’s interesting to see how much of a picture quality difference changing a TV's picture mode can make. In TechRadar’s blind showdown, with all TVs set to Cinema mode, the Samsung S95F and LG G5 triumphed. But in my own showdown, with the TVs in Filmmaker Mode, I was most drawn to the Panasonic Z95B’s accuracy, rich contrast, and refined detail.

That’s not to say the other TVs are bad. In fact, all of them are superb. If you’re on the hunt for a premium OLED TV in 2025, you really are spoilt for choice.

Each TV in this test has its own strength: brightness and detail with the LG G5; brightness, color, and bright room viewing with the Samsung S95F; picture accuracy and refinement with the Sony Bravia 8 II. But for my personal test, which was mostly conducted in dim, home theater room lighting conditions, the Panasonic Z95B was the winner.

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It’s no secret that LG and Samsung have been battling for the title of best OLED TV ever since Samsung returned to the OLED market with its QD-OLED display panel technology. In the meantime, other OLED TV brands such as Panasonic, Sony, and Philips in the UK lag behind the Korean giants when it comes to market share.

Why is this? LG and Samsung OLED TVs offer breathtaking picture quality, but so do OLED TVs from other brands. However, LG and Samsung also offer a wider range of features compared to their rivals, such as a better smart TV interface, more gaming features, and a sleeker design. LG and Samsung TVs seem to speak more directly to consumers.

This isn’t to say that Panasonic, Sony and Philips TVs are bad – far from it. The first two brands deliver some of the best TVs for sound year-on-year, and Philips has its unique Ambilight feature to set it apart from the crowd.

An area where LG and Samsung OLED TVs have had an advantage in recent years is in their picture brightness. OLED TVs used to be almost unwatchable in bright room lighting conditions. But recent LG and Samsung TVs have been brighter than their rivals, and Samsung’s innovative OLED Glare Free screen, first introduced on the Samsung S95D, one of the best TVs of 2024, also goes far to improve picture quality when viewing in bright rooms.

But it’s not just features and brightness that have set LG and Samsung OLEDs apart. Another major factor is price. LG and Samsung have been able to consistently deliver their OLED TVs at significantly lower prices than their rivals – until now.

Past pricing

LG and Samsung both released their flagship OLEDs, the LG G4 and Samsung S95D, in March 2024. The Panasonic Z95A was released in September 2024.

The 65-inch Z95A launched at $3,100 / £3,899, but the G4 and S95D 65-inch models were both available for roughly $2,600 / £2,600 by that time. While the Z95A had the advantage of a better built-in sound system and (arguably) better picture quality, it also had an inferior smart TV platform and lacked some of the gaming features found on the other two sets. It was a tough ask for people to pay more for the Z95A, especially in the UK, where there would’ve been a huge £1,200 price difference.

Sony’s flagship TV for 2024 was the Sony Bravia 9 mini-LED TV. Launched at $2,999 for the 65-inch model (the 65-inch Bravia 9 didn’t release in the UK until much later), it was a somewhat better value, but for some, opting for mini-LED over OLED wasn’t an option. As a result, LG and Samsung won the bang for your buck battle in 2024.

Present-day prices

Turning our attention to flagship OLED TVs in 2025, the LG G5 launched at $3,399 / £3,299 / AU$5,299 for its 65-inch model, and the Samsung S95F launched at a very similar price of $3,399 / £3,399 / AU$5,295 for its 65-inch model. Prices for both TVs then quickly dropped in anticipation of sales events such as Prime Day in July.

What we didn’t foresee happening was how aggressive Sony and Panasonic would go with their pricing. The Sony Bravia 8 II, a QD-OLED TV, launched at $3,499 / £2,999 / AU$4,999 for its 65-inch model, while the Panasonic Z95B launched at $3,399 / £2,999 for its 65-inch model. Those prices are nearly identical to the Samsung and LG competition.

At the time of writing, in mid-August 2025, pricing for these TVs is as follows:

• LG G5 65-inch: $2,999 / £2,699 / AU$5,295
• Samsung S95F 65-inch: $3,299 / £2,799
• Panasonic Z95B 65-inch: $2,999 / £2,799
• Sony Bravia 8 II 65-inch: $2,999 / £2,499 / AU$5,295

As you can see, in many cases, both the Panasonic Z95B and the Sony Bravia 8 II are the same price, if not cheaper than the LG G5 and Samsung S95F. This represents a significant shift from previous years, but it still raises the question: Are LG and Samsung TVs still the better value?

What you get

To say that opinion is divided on these TVs is an understatement. Two blind tests involving these four TVs were held in recent weeks: TechRadar’s showdown with a non-expert viewing panel and Value Electronics’ TV expert showdown. The results were very different, with TechRadar’s panel favoring the Samsung S95F and LG G5 due to their brightness and punchy color, and the TV experts favoring the Sony Bravia 8 II and Panasonic Z95B (although the S95F also did exceptionally well) for their SDR and HDR picture accuracy.

While the Z95B and Bravia 8 II may be missing some of the gaming features you’d find on the G5 and S95F – specifically 4K 165Hz support, four HDMI 2.1 ports and under-10ms input lag – you’re getting much better built-in speaker systems on the Z95B and Bravia 8 II.

I compared the Panasonic Z95B and Sony Bravia 8 II’s built-in sound side-by-side, and while the Z95B was the winner, both still trounced the built-in sound of the LG and Samsung models. With Panasonic and Sony, you may not need to invest in one of the best soundbars, saving you money, whereas a soundbar is recommended for LG and Samsung.

Yes, the LG and Samsung still have the edge when it comes to picture brightness out of the box. But elsewhere, I’ve found during my time with these four TVs that it’s a tightly knit contest when it comes to every other aspect of picture quality.

As we get further into 2025, I think there will be furious competition between these OLED TVs. LG and Samsung will need to watch their back, and as for the OLED TV of the year, that’s going to be a very difficult choice.

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It’s no secret that most TVs don’t have very good built-in sound, even pricey models with an exceptional picture. Quite often, a TV’s speakers will sound tinny and flat, with weak bass, making a soundbar a necessary add-on.

Not every TV has bad built-in sound, however. Panasonic and Sony produce some of the best TVs for picture quality, as well as some of the best TVs for sound.

As both companies have audio running through their veins, they know good sound, and over the past few years, have released several TVs where adding one of the best soundbars becomes an option rather than a necessity. But, how do built-in speaker systems on Panasonic and Sony TVs compare?

The Panasonic Z95B and Sony Bravia 8 II, the 2025 flagship OLED TVs for both brands, were participants in TechRadar’s recent OLED four-way showdown test with a casual viewing panel. And since those TVs were in the same room, I had the opportunity to also put the built-in speakers of both TVs to the test.

To make this a fair test, I used the Standard sound preset at the default settings on both TVs throughout. And, before conducting tests, I used a pink noise video on YouTube and a SPL meter app to level-match them both to 70dB volume. This meant the louder of the two couldn’t influence the results. I then chose three movie scenes I frequently use in my testing, focusing on one element for each: speech, bass and surround sound.

Speech

The first aspect I analyzed is arguably the most important one: speech. Dialogue is often the main victim of bad TV speakers, and I used a scene from Oppenheimer, where Strauss and Oppenheimer first meet at the university, to test dialogue clarity and naturalness on both TVs.

The Z95B benefited greatly from its ‘soundbar’ that sits under the screen, as it provided clear, strong speech throughout the scene. It even handled whispered conversations between Strauss and Oppenheimer well, delivering a clear projection of dialogue.

The Bravia 8 II was no slouch on this scene, either. Speech and voices had a fuller sound to them than on the Panasonic, with a more bassy tone that suited Oppenheimer’s dialogue well. I found dialogue was more natural on the Bravia 8 II, too, with voices sounding a bit higher-pitched on the Z95B.

But for sheer clarity of speech, the Z95B is the winner. Its front speaker array delivered cleaner-sounding speech that was easier to hear throughout Oppenheimer, and with its wider soundstage, voices carried and filled the room better than they did on the Sony TV.

Bass

As TVs are getting thinner in design, bass from TV speakers is becoming increasingly anemic. To test bass performance on these TVs, I used the Batmobile chase from The Batman, a scene I always use to test a TV’s sound quality.

The Z95B delivered seriously punchy bass with this scene, accurately delivering the roar and rumble of the Batmobile’s engine, especially during its startup sequence. The Z95B’s bass was not only room-filling, but I could feel it rumble through the floor. Crucially, its bass was also tightly controlled, allowing other elements within the soundtrack mix to breathe.

The Bravia 8 II’s bass wasn’t as impactful as the Z95B’s. Bass still had decent weight and good heft, though it also felt contained to the screen. The Bravia 8 II is a much slimmer TV than the Z95B, which likely affects bass levels, and although the bass was clean, it just didn’t have the same impact as on the Panasonic.

I did notice that when pushed to higher volumes, 80-plus out of 100, the Bravia 8 II’s bass levels became a lot more powerful. However, I felt some of the control was lost, and sustained viewing became difficult at this volume (I initially had it set to 61, where it remained for most of the testing). For bass, the Z95B’s powerful speaker array once again gave it the win.

Surround sound

The final parameter I tested was surround sound performance. While you’re never going to get the 3D sound you’d get from one of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars, such as the Samsung HW-Q990F, the sound on some TVs can extend beyond the screen to provide a more immersive experience. For this test, I used two different scenes: first, the Darkstar flight test from the start of Top Gun: Maverick, and a time-bending musical sequence from Sinners.

With Top Gun: Maverick, the Z95B delivered a wide soundstage, with the sound extending beyond the borders of the screen. As the Darkstar took off over Admiral Cain’s head, the Z95B’s vivid height effects made me feel like the jet flew overhead. Wind, noises within the cockpit, and the creaking of panels were clear and precise, providing a you-are-there experience.

The Bravia 8 II didn't have the same wide soundstage as the Z95B, but it did deliver sound effects with real clarity, control, and a tighter overall balance than the Panasonic. It also did a great job with height effects, including the same sequence of the Darkstar flying overhead. Still, the Bravia 8 II couldn’t quite match the Z95B’s room-filling, immersive power.

I also used the time-bending musical performance in the barn from the movie Sinners for my comparison. During my testing of this 4K Blu-ray for TechRadar’s Blu-ray Bounty feature, I found that this scene had excellent sound positioning, with our reference Samsung HW-Q990C soundbar rendering the placement of instruments with pinpoint precision. I wanted to see how accurately the TVs could replicate this.

Both the Z95B and Bravia 8 II delivered accurate mapping of sound in the scene, but the Z95B was more precise, and it had the same wide soundstage I’d heard earlier. Neither could recreate the same 3D effect as the HW-Q990C soundbar, but the Z95B was the closer of the two.

During my testing, I found that the Bravia II had Dynamic Range settings in its menu. The Compressed setting, which was on by default with the Standard sound preset selected, made the overall sound much louder and more powerful. The Standard Dynamic Range setting felt more accurate and delivered a wider soundstage, but was much quieter. For this scene in Sinners, Standard Dynamic Range proved to be the better option. Also, setting the Sound Processing from Sony to Dolby added a slightly wider dynamic range.

Overall, however, the Z95B still delivered the more accurate surround sound in both the Top Gun: Maverick and Sinners scenes.

Final thoughts

The Sony Bravia 8 II delivers brilliant sound that’s better than what you’ll find on most TVs, but, in these particular scenes, and with these settings, I found the Z95B delivered the best overall sound, with the clearest speech, punchiest bass and most immersive surround sound.

Neither of these TVs will beat top soundbars, but most people will be happy with both the Z95B and Bravia 8 II’s built-in sound.

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2025 is shaping up to be an excellent year for OLED TVs, with new models from LG, Samsung, Sony and Panasonic delivering strong performance across the board.

We recently gathered four of the best OLED TVs of 2025, the LG G5, the Samsung S95F, the Sony Bravia 8 II and the Panasonic Z95B, with the intent of having a blind TV showdown. For our showdown, we opted to use a casual, non-TV expert audience.

Mere weeks before we published our showdown results, Value Electronics, a New York-based AV retailer, held its own annual OLED TV shootout using the same four models, but with TV experts making up the judging panel. Needless to say, both shootouts yielded very different results, which I’ll detail below.

The setups

Before we get into the results, it’s important to differentiate the setups used for these two showdowns.

For TechRadar’s OLED TV showdown, the TVs were compared using the out-of-the-box settings, with only automatic brightness optimization turned off. We intended to present the TVs in the same manner as if you’d just bought them from a store.

For content, we asked our panel to judge the TVs on five categories: dark movies/viewing, color, action, upscaling, and sports/motion. The TVs were set to their respective Cinema/Movie modes for all of the tests except for sports, where they were switched to Standard mode. We then asked each person to vote for their favorite TV for each category.

In the Value Electronics (VE) shootout, each TV was professionally calibrated to get an optimized picture. A combination of ‘real world’ content and test patterns was used for the evaluation. Also, two of Sony’s BVM-HX3110 professional mastering monitors were used so experts could compare each TV to a reference display.

The categories for the VE shootout were divided into SDR and HDR, and they consisted of the following: contrast/grayscale for SDR, Dynamic Range/EOTF accuracy for HDR, color, processing, and bright living room viewing. Each judge gave a score from one to five for each TV in each category, and the average of all scores was used for the final total.

So, here you have two different setups with two different methodologies. TechRadar’s shootout focused on what casual viewers found appealing, while VE’s shootout involved TV experts gauging picture accuracy against a professional reference monitor.

The results

Below are the results for the two shootouts, with TechRadar’s on top and VE’s SDR results second and HDR results third:

For our panel, the joint winners were the Samsung S95F and LG G5, with the G5 receiving a strong boost in points via its dominance in the upscaling category, where it received all 12 votes. Third overall was the Panasonic Z95B, and in last place was the Sony Bravia 8 II.

In VE’s shootout, the Sony Bravia 8 II was the overall winner. It picked up three wins in SDR, and although it didn’t win any HDR categories, it scored highly in them. Adding up the scores, the Samsung S95F took second place, the Panasonic Z95B (the overall winner of the HDR categories) came in third, and the LG G5 came in last place by some margin. Here's a link to a PDF version of VE's shootout results.

Differences of opinion

The most obvious difference between the two shootouts is that the Sony Bravia 8 II came in last in ours, whereas it came in first in VE’s test. The Bravia 8 II scored highly for its accuracy in all categories in the expert shootout, but in our out-of-the-box test, the Bravia 8 II had a noticeably dimmer and, as a result, ‘flatter’ looking picture than its much brighter rivals.

In our testing of the Bravia 8 II, we found its HDR peak brightness was notably lower than the LG G5 and S95F, with the Bravia 8 II hitting 1,439 nits to the G5’s 2,268 nits and the S95F’s 2,132 nits (with measurements made in each TV’s most accurate picture mode). This brightness deficit likely affected its chances in all of our tests.

The other big difference between the two showdowns is the G5’s placement. In our test, it was a joint winner, while in VE’s showdown, it came in dead last. I’ve mentioned how the G5 received a real boost from the upscaling test, but taking this out, the G5 still received top votes in all the other categories, especially in color and sports, where it received 5 and 4, respectively. In VE’s shootout, it didn’t win in any category, although it did well in bright room viewing and SDR color. Again, could this have been down to the G5’s high brightness giving it that eye-catching edge?

The similarities

Despite big differences in the placement of the TVs in the two shootouts, there were also some similarities. The Samsung S95F performed the best in three out of our five test categories (color, dark movies, and action) and was the strongest overall TV. While the S95F didn’t win overall in SDR or HDR in the VE shootout, it did score highly for both SDR and HDR color. So it seems both experts and casual audiences alike agree that the S95F has the best color display.

The S95F also performed well in the VE shootout for HDR bright room viewing – unsurprising given its effective Glare Free screen. Although this wasn’t an official category for us, we did view The Batman, our dark room reference scene, in a fully lit room as well as in dimmed lighting conditions, and it was obvious to our panel that the S95F did best here of the four TVs.

The Panasonic Z95B didn’t receive many winning votes in our tests, but it did receive praise during dark scenes, earning compliments for its accuracy. In the VE shootout, the Z95B won for HDR EOTF, which is essentially brightness accuracy. Accurate EOTF tracking on a TV will help to reveal shadow details in a contrast-rich movie like The Batman, and it seems our panel also appreciated the Z95B’s accuracy.

Final thoughts

While VE and other TV expert shootouts are vital for determining which TVs most closely adhere to industry standards and can also show what a TV is really capable of when professionally calibrated, we wanted to offer an alternative take. Not every TV owner will have the resources to have their set calibrated, and some will just want a plug-and-play experience. Our showdown was formulated with the latter audience in mind.

It’s worth noting that, while the results for these two shootouts are very different, 2025 has produced some exceptional TVs, and each of these OLEDs has its strengths. If you’re torn on which one to buy, check out all the opinions and resources available, and if you can, go view them in stores for yourself!

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The LG G4 and Panasonic Z95A, two of the best OLED TVs launched in 2024, both used micro-lens-array (MLA) OLED panels manufactured by LG. In 2025, it’s a similar story as the LG G5 and Panasonic Z95B both use LG’s new Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel (also known as four-stack OLED).

That means you should expect a similar picture from both, right?

As I’ve discovered when testing combinations of some of the best TVs, models that use the same display panel don’t always look the same. For example, the Samsung S95F and Sony Bravia 8 II flagship OLED TVs use Samsung’s QD-OLED panels, but when I tested them side by side, I got very different results.

The LG G5 and Panasonic Z95B were featured in our recent OLED four-way showdown with a casual judging panel, with the aforementioned S95F and Bravia 8 II rounding out the group, but I thought it would be illuminating to compare the LG and Panasonic on their own.

Brightness

With both the Z95B and G5's default Filmmaker Mode settings active, it was clear that the G5 had a huge brightness advantage – an odd result considering both use the same OLED panel. When viewing some demo footage from the Spears & Munsil UHD Benchmark 4K Blu-ray in HDR10 format, scenes with snow looked far brighter and more vibrant on the G5, with much more brilliant whites and highlights. The Z95B’s picture still looked very accurate, but dim in comparison.

Leaving both sets in Filmmaker Mode, I measured the Z95B’s peak HDR brightness on a 10% white window pattern at 1,028 nits, a significantly lower result than the G5’s 2,268 nits on the same pattern.

After a quick check of the Z95B’s picture settings, I found its Luminance Level (brightness) was set to 70/100 by default, while the G5’s was set to 100/100. After upping the Z95B’s brightness to 100, it hit 2,355 nits, making it the brightest OLED I’d measured to date on this test.

Going back to the same Spears & Munsil footage with the brightness on the Z95B set to 100, the snow scenes now showed much more dazzling whites. It looked very similar to the G5, with the only real difference being the color temperature. I did, however, feel that despite the boost in brightness, the Z95B lost a little of the picture accuracy I’d noted previously.

Color and contrast

Both the Z95B and G5 had superb color in my comparison. Watching more Spears & Munsil footage in HDR10 format, a parrot’s yellow and green feathers looked vivid on both TVs, and a field of red flowers was crisp and refined, with plenty of punch. Once again, the G5’s brightness in default settings gave colors more pop, but upping the Z95B’s brightness brought it to a similar level of vibrancy. The Z95B demonstrated richer, deeper colors, though, thanks to its stronger contrast and more refined black levels.

Switching to Wicked on 4K Blu-ray in Dolby Vision, the default brightness settings were 100/100 in both the Dolby Vision Dark mode on the Z95B and Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode on the G5. This made the colors on both TVs look very similar. Elphaba’s green skin and the pink flowers and blue details on a wall in the Wizard & I scene both had the same eye-popping, vibrant color, and they also looked true-to-life.

Where the TVs differed was that the Z95B's deeper black levels made colors appear bolder and more detailed, whereas they looked brighter and punchier on the G5. This was easy to see in Glinda’s pink outfits and the greens of the Emerald City in Wicked.

As you’d expect from two top-tier OLED TVs, both black levels and contrast are excellent. Watching Alien: Romulus in Dolby Vision on 4K Blu-ray, shots of space or dark tunnels within the ship showcased rich black levels on both TVs, with excellent contrast between dark shadows and bright highlights from stars, lights and torches. The Z95B had the edge of the two TVs here with its deeper blacks, but again, both looked great.

Switching to The Batman in Dolby Vision on 4K Blu-ray, I used the opening crime scene section I regularly use for testing contrast. For this movie, I had to view in dimmed or pitch black conditions as both the Z95B and G5 struggled with the overhead lighting in our testing lab.

Interestingly, although both showcased excellent black levels and contrast, with the torches carried by detectives balancing well against the dim surroundings, I noticed that in pitch black conditions, black levels were more elevated on the G5. The Z95B’s deeper blacks resulted in stronger contrast, although there was some loss of shadow detail, specifically Batman’s eye and the logo on his chest when he looked towards the camera. Of the two, I found myself drawn to the Z95B as it felt more accurate to the movie.

Bang for your buck

It’s fair to say that in recent years, a drawback of Panasonic’s flagship OLED TVs has been their price, which is often hundreds more than that of its main rivals at launch. This year, however, Panasonic is being more aggressive with its pricing. The 55-inch Z95B is available for $2,399 / £2,299, while the 55-inch G5 is available for $2,199 / £2,299. The 65-inch Z95B, meanwhile, is available for $3,099 / £2799, while the 65-inch G5 is $2,899 / £2.899.

One thing that could swing things in the Z95B’s favor between these two TVs is sound. Panasonic’s TVs are always among the best TVs for sound, and the Z95B is no different.

Watching the Batmobile chase scene from The Batman, the Z95B stood head and shoulders above the G5 when it came to the built-in sound. The Z95B’s punchier sound and much more powerful bass better captured the rumble of the Batmobile’s engine and the crunching of car impacts and explosions. Speech was clear on both sets, but the Z95B delivered better clarity. With the Z95B, you can easily watch without using one of the best soundbars – a factor that saves you money – whereas a soundbar is more recommended with the G5.

Where the G5 has the edge is in its gaming features, which are up there with the best gaming TVs and include 4K 165Hz support on four HDMI 2.1 ports. The LG’s webOS 25 smart TV interface is also one of the best I’ve used and provides a superior overall experience to the Z95B’s Fire TV smart interface.

Both of these are class-leading OLED TVs, and both are in the conversation for TV of the year. But based on this comparison, I found myself favoring the Panasonic Z95B. Its default Filmmaker Mode brightness setting may be odd, but once adjusted, I found myself more drawn to its picture than the LG G5's picture.

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Over the past few weeks, I’ve compared TVs side-by-side, everything from flagship OLEDs to an entry-level OLED and a mid-range mini-LED TV. But one other, more ambitious test I conducted might be the most revealing of all.

TechRadar rarely gets to conduct a simultaneous test of flagship OLED TVs from every major brand, but recently we found ourselves with the Samsung S95F, LG G5, Sony Bravia 8 II and Panasonic Z95B, four of the best TVs of 2025, under one roof, which made the prospect of a side-by-side evaluation irresistible.

However, our group test was a little different than the standard expert evaluation as we recruited several colleagues to help us determine which was the best OLED TV. Crucially, this was a blind test, with each TV’s logo covered up. To identify the different models, they were referred to solely by a number: 1 (Samsung S95F), 2 ( LG G5), 3 (Sony Bravia 8 II) and 4 (Panasonic Z95B). In all photos, these numbers correspond with the placement of the TVs from left to right.

For this article, however, I will refer to the TVs by their model numbers.

Before we get into the results, these were the testing criteria and conditions. The TVs were judged purely on picture quality, looking at five areas: black levels/contrast, color, fast-paced action movies, motion (sports), and upscaling. Our testers were asked to pick their favorite for each category, and this would earn the TV a point.

For settings, all the TVs were set to the Cinema/Movie picture preset for all sections except sports, where we switched to the Standard mode. Also, other than switching off brightness optimization or ambient light settings (which automatically adjust brightness based on the room lighting conditions), the picture presets were left in their out-of-the-box settings.

Now on with the results!

Black levels/dark movie viewing

For the first test, we asked our panel to pick their favorite OLED TV for dark movie scenes, focusing on contrast, black levels and shadow detail.

The clip we chose for this was the opening crime scene from The Batman, a movie with a low mastered brightness (400 nits compared to the industry standard 1,000 nits) that can reveal issues such as black crush or raised black levels. It’s also a high-contrast scene, with plenty of light from lamps and torches balanced against dark surroundings.

This test was conducted under regular ambient room lighting conditions, with a lamp off to one side to simulate a living room. Afterwards, we turned on the overhead lights in our testing room, focusing on any screen glare caused by the bright overhead lighting.

The winner of this test was the Samsung S95F, which, with its Glare Free screen, maintained strong contrast in both lighting situations, displaying high peak brightness, deep blacks, and refined shadows. Overall, it earned nine votes out of twelve.

Some comments from our testers: “I prefer the Samsung, it did best in both conditions.” Also, “Samsung had a lot more detail when it brightened up.”

The Panasonic Z95B also did well in this test, earning two votes out of twelve. Some of our testers stated that it “was the best to watch” and it “has the best balance and it’s the most accurate”.

The LG G5 earned a single vote, but multiple commenters noted that it was “too bright for the scene.”

The Sony Bravia 8 II struggled the most in this test, earning no votes. Comments included, “The Sony is way too dim,” and “The Sony is so dark you lose detail.” However, one panelist did say they “liked the contrast of the Sony when Gordon shone his torch,” indicating that it got the balance right. Despite this last comment, the Sony Bravia 8 II earned no votes.

Winner: Samsung S95F

Color

For our next test, we asked our panel to judge color reproduction based on accuracy, vibrancy, and which TV they just generally preferred.

The scene we chose for this test was from The Wild Robot. This beautifully animated movie has colors that are both eye-popping and natural-looking, making for a perfect testing scene. We chose one scene from early in the movie, where ‘Roz’ (the robot) interacts with a tree covered in butterflies that shows dazzling yellow, red and orange hues.

This was a closely fought contest between the Samsung S95F and the LG G5. One thing that was very interesting was that our panel actually struggled to tell the two TVs apart. With all TVs set to Cinema mode, our panel said the two “have a similar color profile and color range”. As a result, it was a back-and-forth, with some commenting that the Samsung “has the best colors with the most pop,” and the LG “has a glow.” It ultimately came down to the S95F earning six votes to the G5’s five.

The Sony Bravia 8 II and Panasonic Z95B struggled in this test. Commenters said, “Both Panasonic and Sony look super dull,” and “Sony doesn’t have the eye-popping color you want”. The Z95B did earn one vote in this test, while the Bravia 8 II earned none.

Winner: Samsung S95F

Action

The next test involved a fast-paced action movie, with lots of onscreen motion. We gave guidance to our panel to check which TV had the smoothest motion, but ultimately, we just wanted to see which one they preferred to watch.

For this test, we chose the dogfighting training mission from Top Gun: Maverick. This scene has a lot of quick panning shots and weaving jets, and is an excellent test for motion handling.

Once again, the Samsung S95F came out on top. Our panel commented, “The Samsung has the most fluid movement” and is “the right side of smooth,” meaning it avoided the dreaded soap opera effect. Someone also felt it “gave the most cinematic experience.” In this test, the S95F earned seven out of twelve votes.

The Panasonic Z95B also received many compliments, including ones that cited it as the “most fluid with motion” and “ the nicest on the eye.” The Z95B ended up receiving three votes, while the LG G5, which went fairly under the radar in this test, received two votes.

This was once again a tough test for the Sony Bravia 8 II, although one viewer did feel that the Sony “had the best motion.” For us as test facilitators, we ended up surprised that Sony didn’t do better, as Sony’s TVs traditionally have some of the best motion processing on the market. The Bravia 8 II received no votes.

Winner: Samsung S95F

Upscaling

To test which TV had the best upscaling, we used a DVD of The Amazing Spider-Man played through a Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player with its upscaling turned off.

In a truly dominant performance, the LG G5 earned a clean sweep of 12 votes. It easily had the brightest picture, with the best upscaling of textures, color and contrast. Our panel noted that “details such as hair are more refined” and that the ”LG is good at sharpening the background as well as faces and other textures.”

Why did the other TVs not fare as well? This was the first time that the Samsung S95F’s picture had been cited as “too dark,” and there’s a reason for this. In SDR Cinema mode (the picture mode used for this test), the S95F’s default brightness is set to 18 out of 50, which makes the picture appear a lot darker than it otherwise would be.

The Panasonic Z95B arguably received the comment of the day when someone said it looks like “deep-fried memes,” referring to the oversharpening of the image. Sony, on the other hand, received positive feedback as someone called it the “most natural looking.” Even so, it couldn’t de-throne the LG G5 on this test.

Winner: LG G5

Sports

Our final test involved sports viewing, with panelists looking at which TV displayed sports most accurately, for both with motion and color. For this test, all the TVs were set to their Standard picture mode (as some didn’t have a Sports mode), with the default motion settings active. For the test, we used a stream of the MLS All-Star soccer game via Prime Video.

This was the most evenly fought contest out of all the tests. Some complimented the LG G5, saying its “motion looked the best - it has the fluidity you want when watching sports,” and that it “looks the most crisp.” There was also criticism of the G5, with commenters saying it “was too oversaturated” and it had “too cool a color temperature.” Still, the G5 received four votes.

The G5 was actually a joint four-vote winner with the Panasonic Z95B, which received compliments such as, "It has the best color contrast,” and “it has the best pitch color.” However, other comments said it was “too dark.”

The S95F and Bravia 8 II scored two points each. The S95F was said to “look the most natural” and also that it “looks the clearest,” although there were some “obvious motion artifacts” such as the ghosting of a ball. One panelist said of the S95F, they “wished it were brighter”. The Sony Bravia 8 II was said to be “too juddery” and “not as fluid,” but was also called “the most natural” by one person.

Tie: LG G5 and Panasonic Z95B

Final results

Our test ended up being a draw between the Samsung S95F and LG G5, with both receiving a total of 24 points each. Now, the G5 is helped by its clean sweep in the upscaling test, which earned it 12 points, but by the numbers, it’s still a tie!

Without the upscaling test result, the Samsung S95F had the most consistent victories across each category, with three wins out of five, while the G5 earned two wins and the Z95B earned one.

Unfortunately for Sony, the Bravia 8 II didn’t do well in our bank of tests, and the main reason for this was its comparative lack of brightness. It’s worth noting that the Bravia 8 II’s brightness can be improved by changing Dynamic Tone Mapping in the settings to ‘Brightness Preferred,’ but this comes at the expense of picture accuracy.

Considering the Bravia 8 II uses a QD-OLED panel, we expected it to be brighter. But as these tests were done with out-of-the-box settings, the Bravia 8 II struggled against its rivals.

None of this is to say that the Sony Bravia 8 II or Panasonic Z95B are unworthy TVs (the Bravia 8 II scored an excellent 4.5 out of 5 stars in our review). But ultimately, in our casual test with these TVs in their default settings, the Samsung and LG were the victors in the eyes of our panel.

Tie: Samsung S95F and LG G5

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If you're looking for a way into 4K Blu-ray, this cheap Panasonic player is a great start. You can get the Panasonic DP-UB154 for $161 (was $197.99) at Amazon.

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This isn't the cheapest we've seen the player, as it's been down to $149 before, but this is still a big saving.

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The Panasonic DP-UB154 earned four stars in my review. I found it offered "brilliant HDR pictures" and "effective upscaling of lower-resolution sources". Its picture reproduction resulted in bold, vibrant, and detailed pictures and did a good job at maintaining film grain in older movies, something cinephiles will appreciate.

Features-wise, the UB154 doesn't have the same list as some of the best 4K Blu-ray players. There's no support for Dolby Vision, but there is HDR10+ and HDR10 support, the latter of which should cover you for most discs. There is also Dolby Atmos, hi-res audio, and CD playback.

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Panasonic Lumix S1 II: two-minute review

The S1 II is Panasonic's most powerful Lumix camera yet, debuting a partially-stacked 24.1MP sensor and an embarrassment of riches for video recording, including 19 pages of video codecs in the menus.

There are 6K and 4K options in various aspect ratios up to 60fps and 120fps respectively, plus a new open gate 5.1K option up to 60fps. Furthermore, ProRes Raw format is available in-camera with bitrates up to 4.2Gbps (that's not a typo), as is a Dynamic Range Boost mode – the latter delivers quite possibly the most detail-rich video I've seen at this price point.

The boost in performance from the partially stacked sensor extends to photography too, with up to 70fps burst shooting (or 10fps using the mechanical shutter) and an option for 1.5 seconds pre-capture.

Both photo and video capture benefit from class-leading in-body image stabilization – the Boost IS mode gave me some of the smoothest handheld videos I've shot – plus Panasonic's most effective autofocus yet, with subject-detection autofocus now extended to 'Urban Sports' such as parkour. Autofocus speed, versatility and accuracy are still not quite as complete as rival cameras such as the Nikon Z6 III, but it's impressive nonetheless.

As for the design, the Lumix S1 II's body is identical to the Lumix S1R II's – which is a good thing considering that it's the best Lumix design yet.

I've enjoyed the crisp 5.76m-dot EVF, 1.84m-dot vari-angle touchscreen, durable body and a generous handgrip, complete with vents that keep the camera cool during long record sessions.

The Lumix S1 II feels uncharacteristically expensive for a Lumix, but I'm still struggling to think of a better mirrorless camera at this price point for video-first users – it really is one of the best video cameras. As a photography-first user, the 44.3MP Lumix S1R II is the more obvious choice for me, even if it can't match the S1 II's raw power.

Panasonic also launched the Lumix S1 IIE on the same day as the Lumix S1 II. The two cameras are identical, except that the 'E' version has a regular 24MP full-frame sensor rather than a partially stacked one, which means a slower performance in a few areas and fewer video modes to choose from. It's $500 / £500 cheaper.

I feel like there's much more of a case for the S1 II than there is for the S1 IIE, especially given there's the cheaper Lumix S5 II in the picture, which is yet another 24MP Lumix. The Lumix S1 II is agonizingly close to a five-star rating, but its price point puts it among fierce competition, and takes it down a peg.

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: price and release date

• Body-only price is $3,199 / £2,899 / AU$5,299
• It was announced on May 13 2025 and is available now
• A Lumix S1 IIE version costs $2,499 / £2,399 (about AU$4,100)

The Lumix S1 II was announced on May 13, 2025, and it costs $3,199 / £2,899 / AU$5,299 body-only. The 44.3MP Lumix S1 R II costs $100 / £100 more, while the Nikon Z6 III, which is another obvious alternative, is a fair bit cheaper.

Alongside the Lumix S1 II, Panasonic unveiled the Lumix S1 IIE, which has the same skin and feature set, but a regular 24MP full-frame sensor rather than a partially stacked kind. The S1 II's partially stacked sensor delivers faster performance in several areas, and more video record modes.

Both cameras are available now.

• Price score: 4/5

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: specs

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: design and handling

• Rugged body, weighs 1.76lbs / 800g
• Clear and detailed 5.76m-dot OLED EVF
• Cooling vents for long record times without overheating

We've already reviewed the Lumix S1R II, and the Lumix S1 II's design is essentially identical. At 1.76lbs / 800g, it's a tiny bit heavier – that's because it features a partially stacked sensor – but that's the only real difference.

To briefly recap from our Lumix S1R II review, this second generation of Lumix S1 cameras is slimmed down from the first, being approximately 20% lighter and a little smaller in every dimension.

The S1 II, S1 II and S1R II trio are very comfortable to hold, and the S1 II balances really well with most of Panasonic's L-mount lenses – I had the 24-105mm F4 Macro OIS for this review.

I think Panasonic has evolved the design nicely – not only are the new S1 II / S1R II / S1 IIE models the best in the hand yet, but they're rugged, weather-proof, and feature built-in vents to keep them cool – an essential feature for big video hitters like the Lumix S1 II.

There's a slight feel of function over form here: the Lumix S1 II speaks video production work to me, rather than go-out-and-create. That said, the camera handles well in any situation.

As a hybrid mirrorless camera, no stone is left unturned – the Lumix S1 II features full-size HDMI, mic, and headphone ports, plus USB-C charging that doubles up for external SSD connection and recording.

There are twin card slots – one is CFExpress Type B, which you'll need for some of the higher-quality video codecs, and the other is SD UHS-II.

The vari-angle screen can spin around to the front for selfie recording, and the display features a helpful red border prompt during recording, together with front and rear tally lights – these are useful visual aids for busy filmmakers. There are also twin red buttons to start recording: a large one on the front of the camera, and a smaller one on the top.

Photographers in particular will enjoy the EVF – it's a bright and detailed 5.76m-dot OLED display. I also like the feel of the rear joystick, especially for navigating autofocus points and modes.

The button layout is all very sensible, and I also appreciate how simple Panasonic menus are (in general). For example, the video mode menu only has six pages in all, so features like image stabilization are easily found.

The same can't be said for video codecs – there are a staggering 19 pages of Full HD, 4K 5.1K, 5.8K and 6K video modes to choose from, with various aspect ratios, bitrates and formats.

Thankfully, it's possible to create custom profiles for your most-used settings, otherwise navigating between the options is a time sink.

• Design score: 5/5

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: features and performance

• Incredibly effective image stabilization for video
• Rapid 70fps burst shooting mode or a more sensible 10fps using mechanical shutter with continuous AF
• Average 350-shot battery life
• Panasonic's best autofocus performance to date

Panasonic stuck with a contrast-detection-based autofocus system for years when rivals had adopted a hybrid phase / contrast-detection setup, which is more effective for video. It was a big mark against Panasonic's otherwise-excellent video cameras.

Thankfully, Panasonic finally rectified the situation with the Lumix G9 II / Lumix S5 II in 2023, introducing a hybrid autofocus system which Panasonic says is now 1.6x faster in the Lumix S1 II.

Certainly, the Lumix S1 II packs Panasonic's best-ever autofocus, with an increased array of subject-detection modes. I've been shooting anything from grassroots sports to animal portraits with it, and on the whole have been really impressed.

While not scientific, my testing suggests that Panasonic's autofocus is still a little way behind the likes of Canon, Sony and Nikon, but not by much; in simple terms, autofocus performance is no longer a strike against Panasonic. You can see in the gallery below a range of subjects I've photographed, and my hit ratio of sharp shots was roughly 8/10.

What is less ideal is battery life, which is CIPA-rated at 350 shots, or up to 70 minutes record time. I've been able to squeeze more photos out of a fully charged battery than that, and there's on-the-go UBS-C charging too. However, Sony cameras, for example, boast better battery life.

Where the Lumix S1 II really shines is its in-body image stabilization, which is rated up to 7EV. In practice, I've found it to offer the most effective stabilization of any camera for video recording, especially in the Boost IS mode. There's a small crop of the image area in this mode, but handheld videos on the move are silky smooth.

There's also an extremely rapid 70fps burst-shooting mode. Personally, I find this to be overkill for the casual action photography I typically do, but to have a mechanical shutter that ticks over at 10fps for what are essentially unlimited sequences is a great to have.

Overall, the Lumix S1 II is able to sustain its high-speed performance to a level that the Lumix S1R II can't. I photographed a grassroots soccer match at last light (see below), and the camera's speed and autofocus held up well.

There's the option for data-heavy ProRes RAW video recording in-camera, which further highlights just how powerful a camera the Lumix S1 II is.

I also must commend the new(ish) Lumix Lab app, which is the most reliable camera app Panasonic has made yet. Unlike previous apps, which have frustrated me no end with my previous cameras such as the Lumix GH5, Lumix Lab provides a quick and reliable connection between camera and phone, together with remote control, image upload, and access to Lumix resources such as custom color profiles.

• Features and performance score: 4.5/5

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: image and video quality

• 24MP partially stacked sensor is a great all-rounder
• A generous range of video codecs, bitrates and aspect ratios, up to 6K 60p
• Color profiles and real-time LUTs can be imported from the Lumix Lab app

If you want the best-possible video quality, you'll struggle to find a better camera than the Lumix S1 II at its price point.

It tops out at 6K resolution, whereas high-resolution alternatives such as the Lumix S1R II, Canon EOS R5 Mark II, Nikon Z8 and Sony A1 II offer 8K, but otherwise the Lumix S1 II's video quality is top-drawer.

Not only does it offer more video formats and bitrates than rivals, but also aspect ratios which are taken from the full height and width of the sensor (open gate) and include 3:2, 4:3, 16:9, 17:9 and 2.4:1.

I've shot with a wide range of the video modes, and you can see what to expect across the various resolutions and frame rates in the (lengthy) sample video, below.

Special mention goes the the Dynamic Boost mode, which delivers quite possibly the best and most detail-rich video quality straight out of the camera that I've seen from a hybrid camera. You lose various features, such as slow-motion frame rates, but for outright quality it's incredible.

Something the Lumix S1 II does better than the higher-resolution Lumix S1R II is handle rolling shutter distortion. Yes, it's a way more capable all-round camera for recording video.

There are also a range of color profiles, including V-Log, plus any number of custom profiles made by pros in the Lumix community, and which can be imported directly to the camera from the Lumix Lab app for video and photo. You can see a range of looks in the photo gallery below.

If you're mainly going to be shooting photos, and appreciate the Lumix S1 II's all-round capabilities, then the Lumix S1 IIE could be a better shout. It's widely reported that partially stacked sensors can have an adverse impact on image quality in low light versus a regular sensor; it's a subtle difference, but images can be a little noisier. I haven't made direct comparisons between the Lumix S1 II and Lumix S1 IIE, but it's something worth thinking about.

Overall, however, I have no complaints regarding the photo quality of the Lumix S1 II. I'm used to full-frame 24MP cameras; they balance speed, performance, and image quality nicely.

• Image and video quality score: 5/5

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: testing scorecard

Should I buy the Panasonic Lumix S1 II?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Panasonic Lumix S1 II: also consider

How I tested the Panasonic Lumix S1 II

• Panasonic loaned me the Lumix S1 II for one month, together with the 24-105mm F4 lens
• My main focus of testing has been the video modes, though I have also used the camera in various photography scenarios
• In general, I've tested the camera in fair weather and fair light

I've had a good long time with the Lumix S1 II – over one month in all. Panasonic loaned me a 24-105mm F4 lens for the test, and this was the only lens I used the camera with.

My testing reflects the typical audience for the Lumix S1 II – I've shot a lot of video with it, using the various resolutions, codecs and frame rates, and recording onto a top-spec CFExpress Type B card.

That's not to say I've neglected photography – far from it. I've shot everything from grassroots soccer at last light to animal portraits and everyday subjects, mostly in fair weather and fair light.

First reviewed June 2025

Amazon Prime Day isn't far away now, running between July 8-11, but there are some discounts live already. One I've seen is on our favorite 4K Blu-ray player.

You can get the Panasonic DP-UB820 for $396.45 (was $497.99) at Amazon. That's not quite a record-low (it has hit $349 in the past), but it's the cheapest it's been in quite some time.

Discounts on the best 4K Blu-ray players, especially the UB820, are rare, so it's best to go grab them while you can!

Today's best Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player deal

In my Panasonic DP-UB820 review, I awarded it five stars. That was partly due to its excellent picture reproduction, and full array of features and connections, but mostly because I trusted it as a reliable hard-working player that felt built to last.

Not only is it our top pick for the best 4K Blu-ray player, but it's the player we use when testing the best TVs and the best soundbars, thanks to its dependable nature and excellent overall performance. For what it delivers, the UB820 is fantastic value even at full price. A discount is a bonus!

The world of the best OLED TVs can look a bit samey if you're not familiar with the latest OLED technology, and the subtleties of how companies use it. So, given that there are seven flagship-level OLED TVs in 2025, I thought I'd break down what those models are, and what to expect from them.

They're not all out yet, so we haven't tested most of them fully yet (though we have several reviews in progress), but I have actually seen every one of these TVs in action with my own eyes, at trade shows and demos.

So here are the essentials to know, the reasons why each one stands out, and some early thoughts on them.

LG G5 – LG's brightness king

Panel type: LG W-OLED Primary RGB Tandem; LG W-OLED (97-inch)
Sizes: 48, 55, 65, 77, 83, 97 inches
Price: From $2,499 / £1,799 / AU$4,199

The LG G5 is a big deal. It's the first TV to use LG's new-gen OLED panel – known as a 'four-stack' panel or Primary RGB Tandem OLED – which delivers better color depth and better brightness efficiency than anything LG's ever delivered before, thanks to a new structure of four layers of OLED pixels in different hues.

We measured its peak brightness at over 2,200 nits, which is the level we expect from mini-LED TVs – it's stunning for an OLED. Its fullscreen brightness is 331, which is also very high for an OLED, and means watching things like sports or playing video games in bright rooms won't feel washed out.

It's a beautiful screen, delivering natural images that still have lots of HDR pop to highlights and colors. It comes in sizes from 48 inches (in Europe only) up to 97 inches, though the 48-inch size won't be as bright as most of the range, due to the physical limitations of the smaller size; the 97-inch also won't be as bright, because it doesn't use the same new-gen panel.

There's a new polarizer to reduce the impact of mirrored reflections, which is very effective when faced straight on, though reflections look brighter and more distracting when viewed at an angle.

As with all LG TVs, the G5 is extremely well-equipped for features, ranging from a great smart TV system to having the most comprehensive gaming features you can get, including 4K at up to 165Hz on all four HDMI ports.

It's also got good built-in sound, though it doesn't match the quality of the TVs further down this list that have more elaborate speaker arrays. Also worth noting: you'll need to check if you're getting a stand or just a wall mount with this TV when you buy it – this varies from size to size, and from country to country.

The really interesting thing is the screen – a glossy next-gen OLED option. We gave the TV five stars in our LG G5 review, and it's already seeing price drops, making it an early leader among this year's contenders for our list of the best TVs.

The takeaway: LG's latest and greatest OLED panel delivers a real reason for the continued push for this tech to be brighter, because it's a stunner.

LG M5 – the wireless wonder

Panel type: LG W-OLED Primary RGB Tandem; LG W-OLED (97-inch)
Sizes: 65, 77, 83, 97 inches
Price: From $TBC / £3,799 / AU$TBC

This one's relatively easy to explain: it's basically the LG G5, except it comes in different sizes, and it's wireless. Easy!

The LG M5 uses the same RGB Tandem OLED screen with reflection-reducing layer, and is available from 65 inches to 97 inches – though as with the LG G5, the 97-inch model uses an older panel type that's less bright.

The M5's party piece is its Zero Connect wireless connections box (at the bottom left in the image above), which means the only cable that runs to the screen is the power. Everything else connects to a separate box that beams full-quality 4K HDR images at 144Hz wirelessly to the TV, making the M5 a dream for clean wall-mounted installation.

The Zero Connect box can be placed anywhere in the room, including inside another piece of furniture, though obviously with some limits on the distance and the type of furniture – that lead-lined cupboard you have might be a problem. We noted when the LG M5 was announced that it might oddly be the dream TV for PC gamers, thanks to this box.

The LG M5 is more expensive than the G5 unsurprisingly, but it's a fun alternative.

The takeaway: One for the tech-heads or those who just can't deal with cables. Most people should just get the G5, but it's very cool.

Samsung S95F – the reflection killer

Panel type: Samsung QD-OLED; LG W-OLED Primary RGB Tandem (83-inch)
Sizes: 55, 65, 77, 83 inches
Price: From $2,299 / £2,499 / AU$3,499

Samsung's flagship OLED TV for 2025 is a very interesting competitor to the G5, standing in opposition to it in two ways: it mostly uses Samsung's own QD-OLED panels instead of LG-made panels; and it has a matte screen coating to eliminate mirror-like reflections instead of a polarizer layer.

Let's start with the panel, because there's a twist. The S95F comes in sizes from 55 inches to 83 inches, and the 55-inch, 65-inch and 77-inch sizes all use a super-bright new QD-OLED panel that's incredibly impressive for bold fullscreen brightness that's beyond what we've seen for OLED TVs before.

However the 83-inch size actually uses the LG RGB Tandem panel – the same as the LG G5 – rather than the QD-OLED panel. Samsung says the brightness and performance of all sizes should be comparable, and we've taken preliminary measurements of this model, which delivered over 2,300 nits of peak HDR brightness, and an amazing 465 nits of fullscreen brightness, which beats the LG G5 in our testing.

We noticed some subtle differences between the 83-inch and smaller models that seem to relate to the matte Glare Free 2.0 coating, which we'll investigate as part of our long-term review testing.

So, let's talk about the anti-reflective covering. The thing about this type of covering is that it completely removes the mirror-like element of reflections, meaning they're much less distracting because your eye doesn't change its focus when drawn to the reflections.

Instead, reflections become just a haze – and this does interfere with the image a little still, adding a haze that make the images look less rich. It looks very impressive in this year's model, and impressed my colleague James Davidson during his extended demo time – and James has also been testing the S95F with super-dark movies to see the improvement of detail in black tones in this model compared to its predecessor.

Samsung TVs are also extremely feature-packed, with near-perfect gaming features (including 4K 144HZ on all four HDMI ports) and above-average built-in speakers. The S95F also has a separate connections box, meaning power and visuals are sent to the TV over a single cable, with all connections and processing in a separate box. It means the TV panel itself is super-slim, and again great for wall-mounting.

So, compared to the LG G5, the question becomes whether you want LG's glossy screen that maintains black levels and colors excellently in bright conditions but leaves you with distracting reflections; or Samsung's matte screen that's distraction-free but may reduce picture vibrancy in bright light – but has QD-OLED's awesome brightness and colors in dark rooms. Or there is a third way from Sony…

The takeaway: If mirrored reflections are distracting in your room, this is the OLED to choose. Astounding brightness, great features, and a cool design.

Sony Bravia 8 II – the picture processing master

Panel type: Samsung QD-OLED
Sizes: 55, 65 inches
Price: From $3,499 / £2,499 / AU$3,999

Sony's new flagship OLED TV might be the Goldilocks-preferred option, sitting between the two TVs above.

Want a glossy screen like LG, but with the super-rich colors of QD-OLED? That's what the Bravia 8 II offers.

It uses the same Samsung-made QD-OLED panel as the Samsung S95F, but with a glossy screen that will hold onto full depth in black tones and powerful colors in bright conditions, but that will be more vulnerable to mirrored reflections.

Of course, you'll also get Sony's fantastic image processing, which is generally considered the best in the business by connoisseurs for upscaling and motion handling, including in sports.

I've seen the Bravia 8 II in action, and it's a beautiful thing, and the TV also includes Sony's impressive speaker tech, which vibrates the display itself for a bigger sound than you get from most TVs.

However, we've measured the brightness of the Sony Bravia 8 II, and it's way lower than the LG G5: we measured just over 1,400 nits of peak HDR brightness, and 183 nits of fullscreen brightness.

The LG G5 is 57% brighter for highlights, and fully 80% brighter for fullscreen viewing, which is the really important one. If you're watching in a room with controlled light, you probably won't mind this – but the LG and Samsung options look more versatile, and so are maybe better value.

Another downside of the Bravia 8 II is that only two of its four HDMI ports support 4K 120Hz gaming, but non-gamers won't care about that. It also only comes in 55-inch and 65-inch sizes, though the 77-inch Sony A95L, the previous OLED model, is sticking around.

Compounding these issues is that in the US, it costs a lot more than the LG G5 and Samsung S95F, and I'm not sure it'll be better by a large enough margin to warrant it. In the UK, it costs more or less the same as the G5 and S95F.

The takeaway: The Sony Bravia 8 II will surely find fans who love its picture quality, but its brightness is alarmingly lower than the competition, and its US price is a mill around its neck.

Panasonic Z95B – the home theater specialist

Panel type: LG W-OLED Primary RGB Tandem
Sizes: 55, 65, 77 inches
Price: TBC

Panasonic's high-end OLED TVs are always at the top of the pile when it comes to image and sound quality, thanks to their use of LG's top-tier OLED panel (in this case, the same RGB Tandem panel used in the LG G5), custom-designed thermal tech so the panel can be pushed hard without risking damage, and a huge built-in speaker array that has some very smart tricks.

But these TVs come with a high price as well. We don't know how much the Z95B will cost yet, but last year's excellent Panasonic Z95A was more expensive than the LG G4, which was its equivalent rival at the time. This is likely to be one of the highest-priced OLED TVs of the year.

But it also looks set to be very special. In our early look at the Panasonic Z95B from CES 2025, we said that the extra brightness of the Z95B means that its beautifully meticulous image processing is now more visible and clearer during bright-room viewing.

Compared to last year's model, we said: "I could see a brightness advantage to the Z95B, specifically in the dancers’ bold, monochrome outfits. Equally important, I didn’t see much in the way of onscreen glare from overhead lights, an effect that can detract from picture contrast."

The Panasonic's speaker array can do some seriously impressive stuff as well, not just in terms of its Dolby Atmos reproduction (thanks to a large set of forward-firing speakers, but also upfiring and side-firing speakers), but also with its 'smart' sound option. You can, for example, make the volume seem higher in one part of the room compared to the other, for your hard-of-hearing family members.

Gamers won't like that it only has two 4K 120Hz ports, and the Amazon Fire TV operating system isn't everyone's favorite – but for home theater enthusiasts, this will be one to watch.

The Z95B will be available at some point later in 2025.

The takeaway: LG's most advanced OLED tech, tuned to be pushed even harder, and with an amazing speaker system. No wonder it'll be expensive.

Philips OLED+910 – the light fantastic

Panel type: LG W-OLED Primary RGB Tandem
Sizes: 55, 65, 77 inches
Price: TBC

This is a sibling to the Panasonic Z95B in many ways. It's a high-end OLED TV that uses the new LG RGB Tandem panel, and it has a very impressive set of speakers built-in, designed and engineered by British hi-fi great Bowers & Wilkins.

It also has Philips' unique Ambilight feature, which uses LED lights built into the top and sides of the TV to spread light onto your walls that matches what's happening on-screen, making the image feel larger than it is.

I saw (and heard) this TV in action, and I think it looks like a really impressive one-box home theater option, because the B&W sound system is really full, impactful and offers good spatial positioning of sound despite the lack of side- or up-firing speakers.

We don't have prices or a release date for it yet, and this model won't be available in the US, but it looks like it has great potential when it comes to sound and vision. It'll be available in 55-inch, 65-inch and 77-inch sizes.

Alas, it won't be quite as hot for gaming, since it will have 4K 120Hz support on only two of its four HDMI ports.

The takeaway: An all-in-one TV and sound system that makes itself feel bigger than it is – great for cineasts with limited space.

Philips OLED+950 – the double-power picture specialist

Panel type: LG W-OLED Primary RGB Tandem
Sizes: 65, 77 inches
Price: TBC

This TV is basically the same as above, except it swaps the Bowers & Wilkins sound system for a dual-chip image processor, meaning it'll have advanced image refinement techniques that no other TV in Philips' range has, and that should rank among the best in the industry.

Basically, if the TV above is for people who want nearly top-tier image quality and great sound all in one unit without thinking about any other tech being involved, this TV is for people who already have (or will buy) an elite sound system, and want the best possible image quality to pair with it, and so its built-in speakers aren't as fancy as the OLED+910's.

At the TV's unveiling, we said that the more powerful chip "allows for more advanced versions of Philips adaptive picture quality techniques, covering everything from HDR highlight adjustments to colour depth enhancement."

As above, this won't be available in the US. It'll come in 65-inch and 77-inch sizes later in 2025, at a price TBD.

The takeaway: How much cool image tech is too much image cool image tech? Philips doesn't think there's a limit…

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• Panasonic’s Let’s Note SC weighs under a kilo, yet packs a removable battery and Gigabit LAN port
• Includes a 56Wh battery held by screws, lasting up to 34.6 hours idle
• Unusual round touchpad returns, now larger and borrowed from a 14-inch sibling model

Panasonic has introduced the Let’s Note SC, a 12.4-inch notebook designed for business users, with a focus on portability, long battery life, and usability enhancements.

According to MyNavi (originally reported in Japanese), the device features a 12.4-inch LCD display with a 3:2 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels.

The screen opens to 180 degrees without touching the surface beneath it, aided by a hinge design that keeps it slightly elevated.

Weighs less than a kilo and still has Ethernet and HDMI

The chassis features a pressure-resistant bonnet structure and has been tested to meet MIL standards.

Panasonic emphasizes the notebook’s durability, including resistance to both impact and vibration.

Available in Calm Gray and Black, the SC is powered by Intel’s Core Ultra Series 2 processors, either the Ultra 7 255H or Ultra 5 255U, depending on the configuration.

Panasonic claims the notebook weighs 919g, though an independently tested unit reportedly came in at 901g, placing the SC among the lightest laptops in its class.

The device includes a 56Wh removable battery, now fastened with screws rather than the tool-less sliding lock used in previous models. While this improves structural integrity, it may make field maintenance less convenient.

Battery performance is rated at up to 12.7 hours of video playback and approximately 34.6 hours of idle time, according to JEITA 3.0 standards. In real-world usage, a 50% charge remained after 90+ minutes of light use and a 30-minute video call.

The keyboard retains a Japanese layout but introduces a notable change: the Ctrl key is now on the far left, having swapped positions with the Fn key. Users can revert to the previous configuration via BIOS settings.

The power button, now located behind the keyboard, is less prone to accidental presses and also functions as a fingerprint sensor.

The SC also includes a round touchpad, larger than in earlier models and borrowed from the 14-inch FC line. While still unconventional, this circular design remains a distinguishing feature of the series.

Connectivity includes a Gigabit Ethernet LAN port, a rare inclusion in modern laptops and potentially appealing to those seeking robust mobile workstation capabilities.

However, the D-Sub and SD card slots have been removed, reflecting user trends toward HDMI and enhanced data security standards.

Most ports, including USB Type-A, dual Thunderbolt 4-compatible USB Type-C, and HDMI, are now positioned on the left side, helping to reduce cable clutter when using a mouse.

The starting price is approximately 295,000 yen (approx $1,880), with general sales expected to begin on June 20.

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OLED and mini-LED are the two leading display technologies, with both offering improved picture quality over standard LED TVs.

Most of the best TVs use these two technologies, but deciding which one is more suitable for you can depend on several factors. Previously, OLED was the go-to option for better black levels and contrast, while Mini-LED was better for brightness. While this remains partially the case, the differences between what each panel tech can offer have changed somewhat.

Some of the best OLED TVs, such as the LG G5, are now hitting over 2,000 nits peak brightness, which is enough to compete with mini-LED TVs. And some of the best mini-LED TVs now have significantly improved local dimming, allowing for deeper and more OLED-like blacks.

I’ve been testing the TCL C7K mini-LED TV, the mid-range model in TCL’s 2025 UK TV lineup, and decided to put it up against our reference Panasonic MZ1500 OLED TV (from 2023) to see how much the gap between the two technologies has been closed.

A quick note: these two TVs are only available in the UK, but for our US readers, the closest equivalents would be the TCL QM7K mini-LED and either the Panasonic Z85A OLED from 2024 or the LG C5 OLED from 2025.

Color: Does OLED or mini-LED produce better color?

Both OLED and mini-LED have their advantages when it comes to color. With Mini-LED TVs, colors tend to be brighter and punchier, while colors on OLED TVs tend to look more saturated and have greater depth due to OLED tech’s inherently high contrast. However, this wasn’t completely the case with the C7K and MZ1500.

Watching a 4K Blu-ray of Wicked with both TVs in their Dolby Vision Dark picture mode, the TCL C7K’s colors had a surprising amount of depth while still showcasing the punch mini-LED TVs get from their high peak brightness. The pink flowers around Elphaba during the 'Wizard & I' scene looked vibrant on both TVs, but I couldn’t help but be more drawn to the C7K.

The MZ1500 still showed the advantages of OLED’s self-emitting pixels vs the C7K’s local dimming backlight, with Elphaba’s green skin and the blue details in a design on the wall revealing better contrast, but the C7K was no slouch here.

It was also no slouch when viewing demo footage in HDR10 format on the Spears & Munsil UHD Benchmark 4K Blu-ray. With both TVs set to Filmmaker Mode, the yellows and greens in a butterfly’s wings were brighter and seemed more natural as compared to the MZ1500’s bolder, deeper display.

Black levels: Which has better black levels and contrast, OLED or mini-LED?

One area where the C7K impressed in my comparison was black levels. Throughout Alien: Romulus, in any scene in a dark hallway or tunnel, the C7K’s black levels looked deeper and richer than I’d anticipated. Yes, the MZ1500 was better here, but it was still an excellent demonstration of the C7K’s local dimming prowess.

The same was true when watching The Batman. Shadow detail on both TVs was excellent in the opening crime scene sequence, and the C7K showed vastly improved black levels compared to some mini-LEDs I’d tested in the past.

Contrast was another area where competition was closer than expected. The C7K displayed a great balance between light and dark tones in the bright lights punctuating gloomy surroundings in both Alien: Romulus and The Batman, holding itself up well against the MZ1500.

As with color, the MZ1500 OLED gave textures greater perceived depth and detail, creating a more 3D-like quality. But the same textures, such as skin and facial features, were displayed with a lifelike quality on the C7K as well.

Screen uniformity: How does OLED and mini-LED screen uniformity compare?

The C7K had impressed me during my comparison so far, but there’s one area where the Panasonic OLED triumphed: screen uniformity.

Screen uniformity refers to a TV's ability to evenly display large areas of the same color, such as black. OLED panels use self-emitting pixels instead of a backlight and, as a result, they can deliver uniform tones across all areas of the screen. But as mini-LED TVs use backlights to produce light, insufficient control of backlight local dimming zones can create uniformity issues.

Watching black and white scenes from Oppenheimer, the C7K did a great job of accurately displaying black and white tones, along with a good range of grays, but I also noticed streaks of brown underneath the black letterbox bars in these widescreen scenes – a sign of sub-par screen uniformity. This wasn’t an issue on the MZ1500 OLED.

Conclusion – OLED vs mini-LED: Which technology should you buy?

Ultimately, the MZ1500 OLED had the superior picture in my comparison, thanks to its self-emitting pixels. But, there’s a key thing to remember here: price.

For a 65-inch C7K at launch, you’d be paying £1,399 ($1,499 for the QM7K in the US, and roughly AU$2,326) whereas the MZ1500 65-inch at launch in 2023 was £2,900 (roughly $3,700 / AU$5,400).

Panasonic’s OLEDs are notoriously pricey, but even a new mid-range OLED such as the LG C5 costs $2,699.99 / £2,699.99 / AU$4,299. That is one heck of a price gap.

So yes, while the MZ1500 does come out on top, the C7K (and the QM7K, which earned four and a half out of five stars in our review) demonstrates the solid level of performance you can now expect from a mini-LED TV, along with its comparatively high value when pitted against an OLED TV.

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Panasonic has announced its 2025 TV lineup, and there’s something for everyone, from flagship OLEDs to entry-level LEDs, gaming TVs and more. I recently got to see the full range at an event, and it featured in-depth demonstrations of particular sets.

Panasonic is known for making some of the best TVs on the market, with its flagship Panasonic Z95A scoring four and a half out of five stars in our review and earning a place on our list for best OLED TVs. 2024 was an exciting year for Panasonic as it not only began to use Fire TV as its new smart TV platform but it re-entered the US market for the first time in almost a decade.

We’d already seen the Panasonic Z95B, the 2025 flagship OLED, in action at CES 2025 and were suitably impressed with its picture quality. Now that I’ve seen the 2025 range in action, I’ve picked three models that I think you should get excited for.

1. Panasonic Z95B

Panasonic’s OLED TVs rank among the top TVs every year for their picture quality, dynamic sound and full array of features. The Panasonic Z95B, the company's new flagship OLED, looks to take things even further.

Seeing the Z95B in person, it demonstrated the vibrant colors and rich blacks I’ve come to expect from Panasonic’s flagship OLEDs, but it also showcased stunning new brightness levels. The Z95B features a new Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel, the same used in the LG G5, and seeing it next to its predecessor, the Z95A, which uses a micro lens array (MLA) OLED panel, the brightness boost and improved color was obvious.

A clip of dancers in colored outfits showed the Z95B's extra vivid punch compared to the Z95A, and the white droplets of water reflecting light demonstrated its brightness boost in areas around the screen. Even black levels were deeper.

The Z95B also features a new ThermalFlow cooling system to regulate airflow, which Panasonic says allows for better brightness retention on screen.

Even the Z95B’s audio system has been tweaked. Although still the same 5.1.2 channel speaker array from the Z95A, the rear effects have been more accurately positioned, and an audio demo proved this. During the demo, where the same clips were played through the Z95B and Z95A, it was clear that the Z95B had a wider soundstage and a more dynamic sound. It also felt more powerful, which Panasonic explained was thanks to the new, larger drivers and side-firing and up-firing speakers.

The Z95B has also gone through a design change, taking on a more uniform look across the whole unit. It uses fabric around its frame and across its front external speaker array, and the corners have been rounded to give it a more premium look overall.

Put all this together with a list of gaming features expected from the best gaming TVs (4K 144Hz, VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia GSync, Dolby Vision gaming and ALLM) and you have one powerhouse OLED TV. Get the price right, Panasonic, and this could be a TV of the year contender!

2. Panasonic Z90B

The Z90B, the step-down OLED model from the flagship Z95B, doesn’t have that model's Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel, but it still has the Z95B's HCX AI Processor MK II and the same list of gaming features. It also comes in a wider array of sizes.

In Panasonic's demo, the Z90B sat amongst the Z95B and Z80B OLEDs in different sizes, and still showed exceptional contrast, dynamic colors and solid brightness. A clip of colored glass showed the Z90B's precise detail and accurate color, along with its inky black levels.

Where the Z90B gets interesting, though, is in its smaller 42 and 48-inch sizes. That OLED size range is usually dominated by the LG C-series OLEDs, but the Z90B includes a front speaker array that could give it the edge over its LG rivals. The LG C5 earned five out of five stars in our LG C5 review, but the built-in sound was its biggest disappointment. If Panasonic can get the Z90B's price right, then it could give the C5 a run for its money.

It’s worth noting for our US readers that the Z90B is only available in the UK and Europe, so if you’re looking for a mid-range OLED, the C5 is likely to be your best option. Just add one of the best soundbars to make it a more complete package.

3. Panasonic W95B

The last of the three models is the Panasonic W95B, the brand’s only mini-LED offering for 2025. In an extremely competitive market, the best mini-LED TVs are often made by brands like Samsung, TCL, Hisense and even Sony. Panasonic is not a company that immediately comes to mind, as it's often known for OLED TVs.

The W95B is a feature-stacked mini-LED that again comes with the flagship HCX AI Processor MK II, a comprehensive list of gaming features, and the new Prime Video Calibrated picture mode and Calman Ready AutoCal (both in the Z95B as well).

Seeing the W95B next to its predecessor, the Panasonic W95A, it showed better backlight control with less blooming (an artifact of LED TV tech) and better black levels with more accurate colors. A demo of a fire handler showed brighter oranges and reds on the W95B than on the W95A. Not only were colors and contrast more powerful, but the W95B had brighter highlights, as seen in the ball on the staff at the center of the flame (shown in the picture above).

From the demo I saw, the W95B could be a great entry in the Mini-LED TV market.

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• Panasonic unveils its full 2025 TV range, with OLED, mini-LED and LED models
• The lineup is led by the Panasonic Z95B OLED TV
• The Z95B could be the brand's best OLED TV yet

Panasonic has revealed its 2025 TV lineup, which features several OLEDs and a wide range of LED models, including a mini-LED TV.

The latest OLED lineup has been trimmed down from last year for both the US and UK markets. It consists of the flagship Panasonic Z95B, successor to the Panasonic Z95A, one of the best TVs of 2024; the Panasonic Z90B, a mid-range model; and the entry-level Panasonic Z80B.

The LED lineup consists of the Panasonic W95B, a flagship mini-LED model; the Panasonic W85B, a model with premium features; the Panasonic W80A, a QLED set; the Panasonic W70A, an LED model; and the entry-level Panasonic W61A 4K LED TV.

The US lineup consists of the flagship Panasonic Z95B OLED, the flagship Panasonic W95B mini-LED, and the entry-level Panasonic W70A LED, which is exclusive to the US and sits between the W80A and W61A.

There are currently no confirmed prices or release dates for any of the above TVs, but once we have this information, we’ll be sure to let you know.

Most of Panasonic’s new TVs will use the Fire TV smart TV platform, except for the entry-level models, which will use TiVo. The Panasonic Z95B and Z90B OLEDs and the W95B mini-LED will support a new Prime Video Calibrated Mode, which was first introduced in Sony’s 2024 TVs and also appeared in last year’s Panasonic Z95A.

Another exciting new feature in the Panasonic Z95B and W95B TVs is Calman Ready, which allows users to easily calibrate their screens using Calman’s new AutoCal feature (set to arrive in a software update to the Calman Color Calibration software during the Summer).

OLED TVs

Panasonic Z95B

Available in 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes, the Panasonic Z95B features the same Primary Tandem RGB, or ‘four-stack’, OLED panel used in the LG G5, one of this year’s best OLED TVs. It also uses a new ThermalFlow cooling system that Panasonic says increases panel efficiency, resulting in higher brightness and better overall picture quality. The Z95B will support Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats and use the HCX AI Processor MKII.

Similar to its predecessor, the Panasonic Z95A, one of the best TVs for sound, the Z95B has a 5.1.2-channel speaker array. Panasonic has upgraded this sound system, however, moving the virtual positioning of the rear channels and boosting the size of the side and up-firing speakers.

Elsewhere, the Z95B is packed with gaming features including 4K 144Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync supported), ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming. Its game control board (part of Game Master Extreme) has also received new features, including a 60Hz refresh mode designed for older consoles. There will still only be two HDMI 2.1 ports.

Finally, the Z95B gets a design update via a fabric material for the front speaker array and surround frame. The corners have also been rounded to give it a more uniform appearance compared to previous generations.

Panasonic Z90B & Z80B

The Panasonic Z90B will be available in 42, 48, 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes. It will support Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range and provide many of the same features as the flagship Panasonic Z95B, including the same HCX AI Processor MKII.

Audio features include Dynamic Theater Sound Pro with a built-in 30W subwoofer and Dolby Atmos support . The Z90 B is also well equipped for gaming, with 4K 144Hz, AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync VRR and ALLM, as well as Panasonic’s Game Control Board. Once again, there will only be two HDMI 2.1 ports.

Finally, the Panasonic Z80B is the entry-level model in the OLED lineup, and will be available in 48, 55 and 65-inch sizes. It will support both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ and use the step-down HCX Processor. It has Panasonic Surround Sound Pro and Dolby Atmos audio, and for gaming supports 4K 120Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium) and ALLM.

Mini-LED and LED TVs

Panasonic W95B

The Panasonic W95B is Panasonic’s only mini-LED TV for 2025 and will be available in 55, 65, and 75-inch sizes, plus a new 85-inch size. It will use the same HCX AI Processor MKII as the OLED TVs and support Dolby Vision and HDR10+, along with improved Hybrid Tone Mapping for better backlight control over its predecessor, the Panasonic W95A.

For audio, the W95B will support Dynamic Theater Surround and Dolby Atmos. Gaming features include 4K 144Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium included), and ALLM, as well as Panasonic’s Game Control Board.

Panasonic W85B, W80A, W70A and W61A

The W85B is a QLED TV that will be available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes and use the HCX Processor. It will support Dolby Vision and HDR10+, Surround Sound Pro for audio and, 4K 120Hz, VRR and ALLM as well as Game Mode Extreme for gaming.

The Panasonic W80A and W70A carry over from 2024. The W80A uses a QLED panel, is available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes, and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos. Gaming features include 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Game Mode Plus.

The W70 is an LED model available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes. It supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+ and 4K 60Hz, VRR, and ALLM for gaming.

Finally, the entry-level W61A LED TV will be available in 43, 50, 55 and 65-inch sizes. It will use TiVo as its smart TV platform and support 4K 60Hz and ALLM for gaming.

Panasonic Z95B: a potential TV of the year?

The Panasonic Z95A was an impressive TV when we reviewed it in 2024, thanks to its dynamic sound, gorgeous picture quality, and improved smart TV platform. Its successor, the Z95B, looks set to be even more impressive.

It will use the new Primary Tandem RGB OLED panel for higher brightness and bolder colors, and has a fine-tuned speaker system and new cooling system to improve peak brightness. Plus, it has a sleeker and more uniform design, which I found to be more visually appealing when I saw it in person.

The flagship OLED market will be a real battleground in 2025, with the excellent, five-star LG G5 currently setting the bar. But both the Samsung S95F and Sony Bravia 8 II also looked to be real contenders when we saw them earlier this year. The Panasonic Z95B is set to take the fight to all of these TVs, and if the price is right, it could be a TV of the Year candidate.

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• Panasonic just launched its new RB-F10 earphones
• They'll cost just £79.99 (around $110 / AU$165)
• They boast Bluetooth 5.4, a seven-hour battery life, and solid audio

Panasonic has just announced a new pair of cheap wireless earbuds with its open ear Panasonic RB-F10 earphones.

Like other open ear designs, rather than sitting inside your ear, these earbuds sit over your ear canal. This allows you to hear your music clearly, but also, because your ear isn’t blocked, you can hear what’s going on around you.

The Panasonic RB-F10s specifically come with a few handy features.

They boast Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint, so you can easily switch their connection between two different devices. They also feature built-in microphones for voice calls with automatic background noise removal, allowing you to be heard more clearly.

Additionally, they have a seven-hour battery life, which can be extended by a further 18 hours using their charging case.

Lastly, because open ear headphones are usually a little bigger than earbuds, they can boast bigger drivers, which should lead to a richer sound than you might be used to. At least, that’s what Panasonic is promising from its new RB-F10s.

Best of all, they come in at just £79.99 (around $110 / AU$165) which makes them one of the more affordable options in the open ear space – and if they can stick the landing could help them secure the best budget option spot in our pick of the best open ear headphones guide.

Open ear headphones are the best

I adore open ear headphones, and recently converted my fiancée to the lifestyle as well.

We love to watch videos or listen to music on our phones, but it’s easy for it to become a competition as we each try to drown the other’s audio out by turning up our speakers louder and louder. We’ve tried using over-ear noise-cancelling headphones, but then it’s impossible for us to talk to one another, especially if one of us is trying to shout for the other from another room.

Open ear headphones strike the perfect balance because we can enjoy our own private audio, but still call out to each other or easily come in and start chatting without having to compete with noise cancelling tech.

They’re also ideal for working out (especially running, as you can enjoy your motivational audio and still hear what’s going on around you), or while traveling, as you can keep an ear out for any public transport announcements that you might miss if ANC is turned on.

I’ve also found that they’re hooked design is generally comfortable yet secure. I’ve tested several open ear headphones designs, and I frequently forget to take them off even when I’m not playing any music because I just forget I have them on.

Lastly, as is true for other earbuds, their small case makes them so easy to carry with you. Unlike a pair of headphones, you can get away with your pockets rather than needing to bring a bag as you can transport your cans when you aren’t wearing them.

Now we haven’t yet tested the Panasonic RB-F10 earphones, but they look like they tick a lot of essential boxes on paper, which could make them a solid choice if you’re after the convenience of open ear headphones that I and others are already enjoying.

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OLED is a much-desired screen tech thanks to its deep, accurate black levels, rich contrast and seriously punchy colors – and image quality has only improved with the introduction of new tech, such as LG’s Primary Tandem RGB OLED, or ‘four-stack’ OLED.

The TV LG has chosen to introduce this new panel tech on is the LG G5, one of its flagship OLEDs for 2025. We’ve fully tested the LG G5 and it’s already one of 2025’s best TVs, earning a full five-out-of-five stars in our LG G5 review, thanks to its full feature-set, snappy performance and most importantly its superb picture quality.

We here at TechRadar have been using a Panasonic MZ1500 OLED TV, released in 2023, as our reference TV for a while now (it’s a trusty assistant in my monthly Blu-ray Bounty feature), thanks to its brighter-than-average panel, super-accurate colors, and natural image processing.

And this got me thinking; how does the MZ1500’s OLED EX panel (a brighter version of the standard W-OLED) compare to the G5’s ‘four-stack’? I put the two side-by-side and played the same movies on each one, using our trusty Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player, one of the best 4K Blu-ray players around, with the output mirrored to both TVs.

I know the MZ1500 was a great TV – that's why we kept it around – but I was surprised just how well it held up to the latest and greatest model.

Filmmaker Mode; a close contest?

Although the G5 has a significant brightness increase over the Panasonic MZ1500, with the G5 hitting 2,260 nits and the MZ1500 hitting 1,000 nits peak brightness respectively (measured on a 10% white HDR window), I found that the two both showed similar pictures in Filmmaker Mode; both Dolby Vision and HDR.

Watching a 4K Blu-ray of Wicked, an extremely bright and colorful movie, in Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode (and Dolby Vision Dark on the MZ1500) looked excellent on both sets (as expected), but the MZ1500 showed essentially as vibrant and vivid colors as the G5 to my eyes.

A scene where Elphaba enters a colorful room showed glossy HDR highlights on both screens, with colors showcasing a nice, vivid punch.

Switching to a 4K Blu-ray of La La Land, again in Filmmaker Mode, the MZ1500 demonstrated excellent color reproduction and accuracy with colors as visually striking as the G5. There was a boost in peak brightness in some areas on the G5, but not to the extent I expected.

Naturally, both these screens demonstrated their superb handling of high contrast, dark scenes as well, showcasing deep, accurate blacks. In The Batman, any scene with bright lamps against dark skies or gloomy surroundings was displayed effectively with true-to-life accuracy.

Shadow detail was also incredible, with no visible loss in textures or details in even the darkest of scenes. Again, I expected the brightness to be boosted on the G5, with maybe higher contrast demonstrated – but was surprised when this wasn’t the case. To be fair, this movie was only mastered at 400 nits, so perhaps similar performance is less of a shock in this mode with minimal processing.

Finally, in Oppenheimer, both TVs displayed brilliant, bright whites and inky blacks, while showing a full range of gray tones on the black-and-white scenes, such as Admiral Strauss’ tour of the University with Oppenheimer early in the movie.

Although, in this, where the sunlight shines through into the white reception room was one of the first hints of the G5’s higher fullscreen brightness (331 nits on the G5 to the MZ1500’s 186 nits, measured on a 100% white HDR window pattern).

Needless to say, I was surprised at just how close the two TVs were matched in their respective Filmmaker Modes; I anticipated a much higher jump in brightness on the G5 that would lead to bolder colors and brighter contrast.

The G5 shines in other modes

However, a switch to other picture modes on both screens was where the G5 really shone. Switching both the G5 and the MZ1500 to their respective Movie/Cinema modes is where the G5’s new OLED panel got to flex its brightness prowess.

In Wicked, when Elphaba sings on a clifftop after running through a field of wheat, the G5’s peak and fullscreen brightness increase over the MZ1500 is evident. The sun, clouds, clifftop (also white) and the wheat itself all have a punchier, brighter look thanks to the G5’s brightness boost. Even Elphaba’s green skin is given more perceived depth thanks to the higher brightness and richer contrast.

During the bomb test in Oppenheimer, with the close-up shot of Oppenheimer’s face reflecting the brightness of the bomb, in the same Cinema/Movie modes on both screens, once again the G5 demonstrates how much brighter its panel is.

Even during The Batman’s darkest sequences, such as the opening crime scene investigation, the dim, warm lamps had more of a shine against the murky surroundings and dark wood interior on the G5 when it was in Dolby Vision Cinema and the MZ1500 was in Dolby Vision IQ (a brighter mode than Dolby Vision Dark).

The increase in brightness also meant small details such as the whites of Batman’s eyes were more visible against his black mask when viewed in these picture modes.

Reflecting on progress

Although I was surprised by the results of these two OLED powerhouses in Filmmaker Mode, it was encouraging to see just how far OLED has progressed, especially when it came to reflections. The best OLED TVs now have a much better handle of annoying mirror-like reflections.

Seeing the G5 and the MZ1500 side-by-side, it was hard to look past just how obvious reflections were on the MZ1500 in comparison to the G5. The G5 wasn't free from reflections, but it was certainly an improvement.

And with other sets such as the Samsung S95D introducing OLED Glare Free anti-reflection measures to OLED, which has been further improved in its successor the Samsung S95F, OLED now has started to nullify its main weakness. But for this test, this was one area where the G5 couldn't be matched by an older, dimmer OLED.

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Panasonic Lumix ZS99: One Minute Review

The Lumix ZS99 (called the Lumix TZ99 in some markets) is a relatively rarity in modern times – a brand new compact camera.

Only stop right there, most of it isn’t new at all. It uses the same sensor and lens combination as its predecessor, the ZS80D / TZ95D, only really adding the mandatory USB-C charging functionality that affects all new devices sold in the EU.

Worse still, Panasonic has seen fit to remove the small (but useful) viewfinder found in the previous incarnation. The screen remains the same as before, only now you’ll be completely reliant on it for every shot – shame.

This is not a bad camera by any stretch, but its highly versatile zoom is pretty much its only winning technical ability over your smartphone in 2025. You can get some good shots if you need to zoom, but pictures taken at the wide angle end are pretty much the same as any half-decent smartphone is capable of these days.

If you really want a separate device, and want to be able to zoom in close on distant subjects, then it’s a good choice – but don’t be surprised if you go back to using your phone in conditions such as low light.

Is the Lumix ZS99 one of the best compact cameras? Technically no, but it's one of the only travel zooms available, for a competitive price.

Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99: release date and price

• $499 / £469 / AU$999.95
• Available to buy now
• All black or black and silver colourways available

These days, paying $499 / £469 for something that your smartphone can (sort of) already do might seem like a lot of cash to part with.

However, cameras such as this have had a resurgence in recent times, largely thanks to the influence of, er, influencers. Last year, such was the popularity of the ZS80D / TZ95D that you could expect to pay double the list price of the ZS99 / TZ99, with even second-hand prices being off the charts.

So the ZS99 / TZ99 is far from cheap, but there’s really not much to compete with it in today’s market – if it’s something you want, it’s reasonably well priced. That said, if you’re happy to live with a smaller zoom (10x), you can get hold of the Panasonic TZ200 for about the same price as a TZ99. You’ll lose the zoom reach, but you’ll get a one-inch sensor which produces better quality images, so that’s worth thinking about.

• Price score: 4/5

Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99: specs

Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99: design and handling

• Small, smartphone-sized sensor with 30x zoom
• Front-facing touchscreen
• No viewfinder
• Lots of physical buttons

At the heart of the Lumix ZS99 sits a 20MP 1/2.3-inch sensor. It’s about the same size as those you’ll find in modern smartphones – in fact some smartphones are packing even larger sensors these days.

Disappointed? Well, don’t be too much – it’s what gives the ability to zoom to 30x, something which your smartphone definitely can’t do, optically at least. The biggest downside of a small sensor tends to be a loss of detail in low light conditions – which for travel might not be too much of a bugbear.

That 30x lens gives you 24-720mm in full-frame terms (the common reference for lens focal length), and just as with the sensor, it’s the same as found on the ZS80 / TZ95D, so there isn’t any improvement in image quality (see the next section).

If you want a camera that fits neatly into your pocket and that isn’t your smartphone, then this should fit the bill. It’s fatter than the average camera phone, but it’s not quite as lengthy. There’s grips on the front and rear of the camera which makes it feel a bit more secure than a slippery phone, too.

Settings changes can all be made via actual, physical controls. A tactile rarity in today’s modern screen obsessed world.

There’s a mode dial giving you access to full manual control, for example, while the zoom is controlled via a rocker switch around the shutter release. Several of the buttons can be customized to suit the functions you use most, which is helpful – and there are some additional touchscreen settings you can use too.

One function which is particularly useful is the Zoom Compose Assist button. Handy for when you lose track of your subject while shooting at a long focal length – such as a bird in flight – it'll quickly zoom out so you can relocate the subject, and then the lens zooms right back in to your last setting when you let go of the button. Nifty.

The screen is also the same as found on the predecessor. It flips forward for selfies and video and has 1.84m dots. It’s detailed and bright enough for most uses, and it’s touch-sensitive too. In the bright sun it’s harder to see, which is why it’s disappointing that Panasonic has removed the viewfinder, found in the previous model. That said, it’s probably true to say that anybody coming from a smartphone won’t be used to a viewfinder and is unlikely to miss the option.

• Design score: 4/5

Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99: performance

• Good for zoom shots
• At wide-angle, image quality similar to a smartphone
• Low light quality is less impressive

We already knew what to expect from the camera, considering it uses the same sensor and lens as its predecessor.

In short – it’s good, but not great. At least, not by modern standards anyway. There’s only so much that a small sensor can realistically deliver, and while there are some things that this camera can do that your phone can’t, sometimes even a budget smartphone will outperform it.

If you find yourself shooting in good overall light, which isn’t too harsh, and you’re shooting a still or fairly placid subject then you’ll get some nice images. There’s a good amount of detail, colors are realistic (if a little dull), and exposures are well balanced. At the wide-angle end of the lens, your smartphone probably achieves the same results.

However, it’s when you engage that zoom that the magic happens. So long as you can keep the camera fairly steady, even shooting at that far 30x zoom can leave you with nice close-ups of distant subjects.

There’s in-built 5-axis Hybrid optical image stabilization (OIS), which works fairly well, but once you’re shooting at 20-30x, any additional steadiness you can provide will go a long way too.

As for tracking of subjects – there’s no way you’re going to follow a leopard or a motorcar, but for more predictable and slower wildlife you stand a fighting chance of capturing the subject, sharply focused.

Now for some bad news – low light. Smartphones do pretty well at this subject by taking lots of pictures and merging them together. Here, you don’t get that, so even when it’s only as low light as indoors, you will notice a fair amount of smudginess. Avoid using this camera inside buildings or after dark, and you’ll be golden.

• Performance score: 3/5

Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99: testing scorecard

Should I buy the Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99

• I used it in a variety of different shooting conditions
• I took pictures at different focal lengths
• I tried the different shooting modes

I tested the Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 over two weeks, in a range of different locations and across different shooting conditions.

I used it to photograph landscapes and typical travel subjects, taking pictures at a variety of different focal lengths. I also took photos of animals to test the focus tracking.

I took the ZS99 indoors to evaluate what happens when light is low, as well as shooting in very bright sunlight and more overcast conditions.

First reviewed April 2025

Are you growing tired of your TV’s sub-par audio? Well I promise you this, you’re not alone. A lot of TVs – yes, even some more expensive models – are guilty of plating up unclear dialogue, tinny treble and thin bass. But since I added a soundbar to my setup, I’ve freed myself of such issues and watching my favorite movies or TV shows never felt better.

But a lot of you may be thinking that a good soundbar will set you back quite some way. And OK, if you want the crème de la crème, you’re right; some of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars, for instance, won’t come cheap. Having said that, I’ve tested some of the absolute best cheap soundbars on the market and now I’m convinced – there’s an option for everyone, whether your budget is around $300 or under $100. So, I’ve collected a list of five budget bars that will take your viewing experiences to the next level. Let’s take a look…

Sony HT-SF150

I’d like to begin with a real favorite of mine, the Sony HT-SF150, or HT-S100F for those of you in the States. This isn’t the newest soundbar on the market – there’s nothing flashy like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X support, but it just nails the basics.

Firstly, it’s ultra-cheap, often appearing on sale for less than $100 / £90 / AU$180 – that’s a phenomenally low price. But don’t be deceived: that low price is not indicative of the bar’s quality. The HT-SF150 also offers up clear dialogue, meaning you can keep those pesky subtitles turned off. And you can adjust audio to suit whatever content you’re viewing by switching between the soundbar’s Standard, Cinema, Music, Night, and crisp-sounding Voice modes.

On top of all of that, the HT-SF150 harnesses the power of Sony’s S-Force Front Surround virtual processing, which aims to emulate “cinema-style surround sound”. Now that might be a bit out of reach for this bar, but still, I was impressed by the width of audio and felt on-screen action was mapped pretty effectively to boot. Pair that with the soundbar’s surprisingly sleek looks and you’re staring at a value champion.

Read our full Sony HT-SF150 review.

Hisense HS214

But hold on: let’s say you’re working with a bit less space. Well, the Hisense HS214 could be the perfect option for you. This is another sub-$100 option, coming in at $99 / £79, but unlike the Sony HT-SF150, this is a mini soundbar.

The HS214’s diminutive build makes it is ideal if you live in a dorm room or small-sized apartment and want a soundbar that seamlessly slots into your TV setup. But despite its truncated size, this thing is able to pack quite the punch. It boasts a maximum power output of 108W and has a built-in subwoofer for some added weight in the low-end. Does it dish out truly booming bass? Not quite. But if will be a significant step-up on a lot of TVs – especially smaller models that often serve up disappointing sound. Yep, that even includes some of the best small TVs.

What’s more, this soundbar comes with EQ options of its own, is simple to setup and has every connection type under the sun – including HDMI ARC. It can’t create quite as broad a spatial impression as the HT-SF150, though. That’s partially inherent to its more restricted width, but its included Surround Mode also sounds a bit tinny – so if you want truly expansive audio, the Sony alternative may be a better fit. But all in all, this surprisingly powerful soundbar is a super solid option if you’re looking for a quick and cheap upgrade on plain TV audio.

Read our full Hisense HS214 review.

Panasonic SC-HTB100

And for my next trick: a UK exclusive. Sorry, US folk. I’d like to shed some light on the Panasonic SC-HTB100, which sees us return to full-sized soundbars once again. This model is ultra-cheap, often retailing for less than £80, but I was surprised to find that out myself.

Why? Well, above all, I was impressed by how clear and well-positioned vocals sounded with this soundbar. Both higher and lower-pitched voices are pretty neatly separated, rarely sounding muffled or disrupted in the overall mix. Sure, this isn’t the most powerful bar and bass isn’t going to blow you away – but if you listen to a lot of radio or documentaries, for instance, the crisp reproduction of vocals makes this bar worth it alone.

Another reason to choose the Panasonic SC-HTB100 is its Bluetooth connectivity. This bar uses Bluetooth 5.0 – more up-to-date than the previous two’s Bluetooth 4.2. And of course the big win there is you can seamlessly connect your phone up to the soundbar and play your favorite tunes from Spotify, Apple Music and the like. I found music quality to be pretty decent on the SC-HTB100 – not as good as the best Bluetooth speakers or anything – but still clear and tonally accurate, especially in Music mode.

Read our full Panasonic SC-HTB100 review.

Bose Solo Soundbar 2

Another small-sized option I enjoyed using was the Bose Solo Soundbar 2. I’ll come clean from the get-go… there’s no HDMI connectivity option here, so you’ll have to use the included-remote to adjust volume output. But picture this: you have a Playstation 5, a Nintendo Switch and a Blu-ray player. Oh no! You have no more HDMI ports remaining. But the optical connection will render that insignificant. So, if you don’t want to keep swapping out one of your consoles or accessories, the optical route may be a better fit for you anyway.

Regardless, let’s talk about the soundbar itself. Again, it’s surprisingly powerful for such a tiny model, with a maximum power output of 100W. It also has adjustable bass levels, so you can get fairly meaty low-end audio – a big plus when watching movies with dark, imposing soundtracks. On top of that, there’s Dialogue Mode, which is effective at lifting speech out in busier scenes, or just giving crisp clarity when streaming podcasts, for example.

Like the Hisense HS214, you can’t expect particularly striking expansiveness from this soundbar, in part down to its small size. But a more positive similarity is that this is again, a pretty attractive-looking model, with a responsive remote and straightforward setup process. It’s not too expensive for a Bose product either, carrying a list price of $199 / £179.95 / AU$359.95 – and it’s sometimes available at a cut-price too.

Read our full Bose Solo Soundbar 2 review.

Sony HT-S2000

Maybe I’m being a bit cheeky here, but I just have to circle back to Sony and shout out the HT-S2000 model. In honesty, this bar isn’t quite as cheap as the previously mentioned soundbars, but still, it’s by no means super-expensive. We’ve even seen it drop to less than $300 in the US and that’s unbeatable value as far as I’m concerned.

That’s because this soundbar packs almost everything you need into one comprehensive package. And I mean that literally: this is a standalone 3.1 soundbar that can play Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks to a high standard and deeply immerse you in the action, courtesy of Sony’s proprietary processing tech. It’s quite rare, in my experience, to find a more budget-friendly soundbar that can do Atmos justice. But when I tested this bar myself, I was really impressed by the verticality on offer – sounds can easily exceed the height of your TV screen, making for significantly more engaging viewing.

Again, you can expect the HT-S200 to handle the fundamentals – be it crisp dialogue, neat aesthetics and a straightforward setup. But it even gets trickier things right too, be that deep bass output, adept music replication or accurate mapping of on-screen activity. It’s worth noting that this is a chunkier bar than some of the alternatives I’ve listed above, so make sure you have plenty of space on your TV unit – that is if you don’t fancy setting it up on a rack.

Read our full Sony HT-S2000 review.

So, there you have it. My picks for the best soundbars if you’re on a budget. As you may have noticed, a lot of these models sit closer to the $100 side of the spectrum, which really goes to prove that stepping up from TV audio doesn’t have to be a crazy expensive endeavour.

Of course, some of these options won’t rock your world with booming bass or the delights of Dolby Atmos – but I can still vouch for their impressive sound quality. If you’re looking for a real top-tier performer, check out our guide to the best soundbars, where we’ve curated a list of the most elite options available today.

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Panasonic RP-TCM225 review

If you’re on the lookout for some ultra-cheap wired earbuds, the Panasonic RP-TCM225 may well catch your eye. They carry a temptingly low price tag of just £11.99 / AU$34.25 (about $15) and promise both “rich sound” and “clear calls”. But in reality, these buds show that sometimes, what you get is what you pay for.

But before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s start with what’s in the box here. You’re getting a pair of wired earbuds that weigh a standard 17g, a collection of different sized eartips, an in-line mic and a controller. Now, for some buds that cost about as much as three cups of coffee, that sounds like a sweet deal to me.

And I won’t deny that there are some real positives here. The buds offer a snug in-ear fit and the choice of large or small-sized eartips, meaning everyone can find a feel that suits them – something that many of the best wired earbuds deliver on. I did discover, though, that the default medium size worked perfectly for me. I also liked how cable noise wasn’t all too prominent with these buds. Sure, you’re going to hear some, but this can be almost unbearable with other budget models. Pair that with their fairly lightweight feel and the Panasonic RP-TCM225 are a pleasingly comfortable pair of in-ears.

In addition, the attached controller is both attractive and easy-to-use, with a sleek metallic-looking finish and satisfyingly shaped buttons. Its central button can be used to control playback or even pick up calls, which is handy.

Overall, I’d say these earbuds are pretty decent-looking. The rounded cable doesn’t bend too easily and the USB-C connector has the same finish as the nifty controller. Casing around the buds, unfortunately, isn’t so nice. This is plasticky and sticks out from the ear a fair bit – making for a less discreet look than I’d like.

But reader, I don’t want to get too caught up on design here. I think it’s time for the main event – sound quality. Now, Panasonic promises both “rich” and “superior” sound from the RP-TCM225, but as you may suspect, that’s a bit of an exaggeration. The first thing that struck me about these buds is that they offer relatively hard-hitting bass given their budget cost. When tuning into Come On Back With Your Love (Sunrise Mix) by Kolter, low-end output resonated with significant clout and impact – essential for a dance track like this.

Having said that, you’re not going to get the most dynamic, responsive sound in the world here across the frequencies. For instance, when tuning into Black Eye by Allie X, the depth of the drum machine was actually impressive, but the agility you’d get from more sonically astute buds was missing, meaning the track lacked its nimble, rhythmic edge. Perhaps a larger issue, though, was that sound quality in the mid-range and above was a little underwhelming. The dramatic strings at the beginning of the track sounded restricted and higher-pitched vocals could sound abrasive at high volumes.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom, however, as these buds did have some redeeming features. For instance, I occasionally picked up on some neat details, like more subtle, background samba drums in SAMBA DO MARCOS by Sadao Watanabe, which played into the tune’s funky vibe nicely. But unfortunately, I did find the lead percussive elements sounded a little harsh, which didn’t exactly entice me to lock in for long listening sessions.

Ultimately, the soundstage can get a tad cluttered too. I found that vocals in the mid-range could often get lost in the mix, since these buds put almost all of their focus on deep bass and clear – albeit sometimes harsh – treble. In general, you can’t expect a brilliantly balanced sonic experience with the Panasonic RP-TCM225. If you’ve got a pair of the best wireless earbuds and they’re all out of battery, then sure, these will get the job done – just don’t expect above-average audio.

Although the sound quality is flawed, there are some redeeming factors. I’m afraid the same can’t be said about the inbuilt microphone. Whether I was on a phone call or taking a voice recording, my voice sounded tinny, unclear and sometimes a little choppy too. That’s pretty disappointing given a model like the JBL Tune 310C – which has a very similar price – includes a mic capable of plating up clean, distinct vocals.

One aspect that is decent overall, though, is passive noise isolation. You’re not going to get that near-silent effect that the best noise cancelling earbuds can muster – or even some elite wired options, like the Shure Aonic 3, are capable of. But sounds like my colleagues typing or people speaking in my local town centre were dulled effectively simply because of the fit of the buds.

All in all, the Panasonic RP-TCM225 don’t really live up to the expectations they set for themselves. Bass output is nothing to be sniffed at, but otherwise, audio is average at best and lacks the control needed for anyone hoping to engage in a longer, more indulgent listening session. Microphone quality is poor too, meaning you’ll likely just be better off using your phone’s mic as is.

And in the end, even these earbuds’ low price didn’t wow me. That’s because there are rivals in the same ballpark that far outperform the RP-TCM225. The JBL Tune 305C and 310C, for example, have cleaner audio, EQ options and stronger mics. Given they’re only a few pounds more, there’s not much of a reason to recommend these Panasonic buds. Yes, if you need a quick fix in a situation where you’ve lost your Bluetooth earbuds or they’re out of juice, these would suffice as a short-term stand-in, but there are better alternatives out there, unfortunately.

Panasonic RP-TCM225 review: Price and release date

• £11.99 / AU$34.25 (about $15)
• Launched in 2024

The Panasonic RP-TCM225 sit in the uber-cheap bracket for wired earbuds. They’re available now in the UK and Australia for £11.99 / AU$34.25, but I’ve previously seen them go for less than £10 at Amazon UK, so keep your eye out for a sale.

Competitors in this bracket include the massively popular Sony MDR-EX15AP and the fairly modern JBL Tune 305C. Both of these, like the Panasonic RP-TCM225 will totally get the job done, but neither plate up particularly great audio – something quite commonplace in this price range.

Panasonic RP-TCM225 review: Specs

Should I buy the Panasonic RP-TCM225?

Buy them if...

Don't buy them if...

Panasonic RP-TCM225 review: Also consider

Panasonic RP-TCM225 review: How I tested

• Tested for one week
• Used in the office and while on walks
• Predominantly tested using Tidal

I tested the Panasonic RP-TCM225 across a week-long period. I used them for a range of activities including music listening, watching YouTube videos and taking phone calls. I mainly had these buds connected to the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, but I also tried them out with my Windows Laptop.

When listening to music, I made sure to run through tracks in the TechRadar testing playlist, which contains songs from a variety of genres – read our guide on how we test earbuds for more. I did, however, also spend hours tuning into songs from my personal library. For the most part, music performance was tested via Tidal. I also took the RP-TCM225 with me everywhere for this review, whether on walks near busy roads or while cracking out some reviews in the office.

• First reviewed: March 2025
• Read more about how we test

Panasonic RB-M600: Two-minute review

Japanese everything-maker Panasonic may release most of its best headphones and earbuds under its Technics brand, but now and then it keeps its own name in play for audio gadgets.

Meet the Panasonic RB-M600… or the RB-M600B, or the RB-M600BE-K, depending on where in the world you live. These are the company's latest attempt to find a space in our rankings of the best cheap headphones, and were launched towards the end of 2024 alongside the RZ-S500W earbuds.

These embody the traits I like to see in low cost headphones: they're cheap and cheery. Panasonic isn't trying to fool anyone into thinking these are the best noise-cancelling headphones ever made; instead, they're affordable enough for the average buyer, and offer one really useful feature.

This feature is the battery life. The RB-M600 can last for 65 hours between charges, a lovely long amount of time that makes them suitable for long trips or forgetful chargers. It's not best-in-class, but it's still really good.

Beyond that… these are budget headphones, and hit the goal of being good value. You're not getting class-leading audio, or many features (there's not even a phone app) or a carry case, but it's totally fine for people who haven't become accustomed to the best headphones on the market.

One real annoyance though is the lack of mobility in the headphones' design. They don't fold down for portability and the cups only swivel and tilt around a fairly limited range. It makes it slightly hard to wear the headphones if you have a certain-sized head, and impossible to wear them around your neck comfortably.

Plus the headphones don't have any water resistance or IP rating, which makes them feel a little fragile.

So they're not perfect, and I'd probably steer people mainly to the Earfun Wave Pro or the Sony WH-C720N. But they're decent for the price and nothing to turn your nose up at.

Panasonic RB-M600: Price and release date

• Released in September 2024
• Sold under slightly-different names
• Cost around £79.99 / AU$140 (around $100)

The Panasonic RB-M600 were put on sale in September 2024, although at time of writing six months later, the headphones aren’t on sale in all regions that Panasonic sells its audio gear. Making things more confusing, the brand sometimes tweaks the name between regions.

You can buy the cans for £79.99 in the UK under the name RB-M600B (and sometimes sans the latter ‘B’) and for AU$140 in Australia as the RB-M600BE-K). I couldn’t find them on sale in the US although the RB-M500 and RB-M700 are. For context, that price converts to around $100.

That price cements these as relatively affordable headphones – you can find cheaper of course, but I’d advise buying anything that costs much less than that.

I should flag that at the time of writing I’ve found a few sales on the headphones: in the UK they’re £20 cheaper and in Australia they’re $30 off, and it didn’t seem to be a temporary price cut either. So you could easily pick these up for less than the official price if you shop around.

Panasonic RB-M600 review: Specs

Panasonic RB-M600: Features

• Impressive 65-hour battery life
• ANC is fine, but sits well alongside passive noise blocking
• No phone app or smart features

The killer feature on the Panasonic RB-M600 is its battery life, and this aspect alone will be enough to convince certain users to buy it.

With noise cancellation turned off, the headphones will last for a whopping 65 hours between charges – as Panasonic makes sure to point out in its marketing material, that’s longer than it’d take to fly around the world. A great figure, especially for people who do go on long-haul flights (or trips) a lot.

The brand doesn’t provide an official quote for battery life with ANC turned on, but I’d estimate it to be at least 40 hours based on relative battery drain on other headphones I’ve tested. That's far longer than the premium Sony WH-1000MX5 headphones, to give you an example of why I'm impressed by it. If you want to save charge, the natural padding of the RB-M600 will cancel out some noise passively anyway.

Noise cancellation was pretty solid for this reason – the pads alone cut out a fair amount of noise. There’s active noise cancellation (ANC), and this is okay at reducing the potency of intrusive sounds to an extent, though no more than other headphones I’ve tested at this price. There’s also an ambient mode which is supposed to let certain sounds through, but I didn’t find it particularly effective at doing so – everything still felt suppressed.

There’s no app to download on your phone to enhance the RB-M600 with more features, so don’t expect any ‘find my headphones’ or gaming latency modes – given the price of these cans, I can easily forgive the lack of certain features.

And for what it’s worth, the Bluetooth pairing was quick and reliable (both for the initial and subsequent connections), and the connection was always reliable.

• Features score: 3.5/5

Panasonic RB-M600 review: Design

• Lots of controls on right cup
• No waterproofing
• Limited cup mobility

The Panasonic RB-M600 are pretty standard-looking headphones, with perhaps the most distinctive design feature being that the cups are more perfectly rounded than most other headphones I’ve tested.

The right cup is the important one, as it has a USB-C port for charging and a 3.5mm port for wired connections, two LED indicators, a volume rocker with central power button, a noise-cancellation toggle and a bass-boosting button. Finding the right button by touch is pretty hard until you’re used to the headphones, which is exacerbated by how they don’t stick out from the body much.

I found the RB-M600 to have a fairly limited design. The extendable head band can be stretched far enough, but the cups only swivel around 90 degrees and tilt over an even limited angle, so you’ll have to hope they fit your head comfortably or you’re out of luck. You can’t fold them down to transport them either.

When I’m not listening to headphones, I like to wear them around my neck with the cups pointed inwards below my collar bone – it’s a pretty normal way to wear them, I’d say. Unfortunately the RB-M600 cups can only rotate over a right angle in the opposite direction, making this impossible.

At least the headphones are comfortable to wear: they’re lightweight at just 256g (according to my scales; Panasonic doesn’t list its own figure), and they don’t squeeze your head too much when you’re wearing them. I didn’t have trouble wearing them for long periods of time, which helps that ‘long-haul flight’ use case.

You can pick them up in black or beige, the latter of which is what I used, but both are identical beyond the color. There’s no waterproofing or IP rating to speak of though, so you’d better avoid getting these things wet…

• Design score: 3/5

Panasonic RB-M600 review: Design

• Hits expectations for price
• Nice and bassy, but missing mid
• Limited max volume

You probably have certain expectations of the Panasonic RB-M600’s sound quality based on the price. You’d probably be right, as long as your expectations aren’t too low. They’re fine for the price, but nothing special.

The cans tote a 30mm driver, which isn’t as big as on some similar-priced rivals, and it’s most telling in the volume department. The Panasonics go fairly loud, but not to the energetic extremes that some might like in their cans. I often wished they went just one or two ‘volume up buttons’ higher to give songs an extra dose of oomph.

I’d characterise the audio as being V-shaped, with treble and bass sitting distinctively apart in the mix but with mids left by the wayside. The audio spread isn’t fantastic beyond that – guitars are guitars instead of six-string harmonies – but it's acceptable for the price. I wish the sound didn’t get as tinny as soon as you started getting to the higher volumes, but it’s not awful.

Panasonic’s marketing material is quick to tell you that the cans offer XBS Deep (or Extra Bass System Deep), which is a system that allows for deep bass playback. The brand offers it on a range of products from its priciest cans to its cheapest wired headsets. Here, it’s activated using a button on the cup.

I toggled this non-stop to see whether it worked, and it returns some ropey results. On some songs, the extra bass its palpable, adding some warmth and fire to songs. On others, I couldn’t notice a difference. It varies quite a bit.

Happily, the RB-M600 have pretty distinct and clear bass by default, so I never felt like the sound quality was poor when XBS Deep was turned off.

• Sound quality: 3/5

Panasonic RB-M600 review: Value

The Panasonic RB-M600 are a mixed bag, but it's pretty easy to overlook many of their flaws when you consider the value-for-money proposition here.

The headphones don't sound amazing, but they're audibly better than the super-cheap options right at the far end of the market, plus they come with loads of features and a longer battery life than you often find in Amazon's bargain basement.

So they do offer good value, but the only thing to query is whether they offer better value for money than some close rivals at this same point in the market.

• Value score: 4/5

Should I buy the Panasonic RB-M600?

Buy them if…

Don’t buy them if…

Sony LinkBuds Speaker review: Also consider

• Panasonic's president is considering a sale of its TV business
• The manufacturer is struggling in a crowded TV market
• No interested buyers have been confirmed so far

Panasonic is one of the best TV makers on the market today – but given how crowded that market has become, even Panasonic is having to consider whether its TV business is sustainable in the long term.

According to a report in Nikkei (via FlatpanelsHD), the Japanese electronics manufacturer is considering a sale of its TV business, after company president Yuki Kusumi declared on an online earnings call that "We are prepared to sell it if necessary, but we have not yet decided on a plan."

The news comes only months after Panasonic confirmed an 80% sale of its projector business with financial services group ORIX, suggesting more measures may be required to balance the company books.

But given the sheer quality of so many Panasonic TVs – many of which I've had the pleasure of reviewing – it'd be a true shame if we had to say goodbye to its TV lineup as we know it.

What's the issue?

Panasonic is a name of some prestige in the TV market, thanks partly to the company's great history in plasma TVs, partly to glowing reviews of models such as the Panasonic Z95A, and partly to its close links with Hollywood colorists, with Panasonic touting its OLED TVs has being used as master monitors during film production.

Panasonic TVs tend to excel at accurate color reproduction and good motion processing, and have often led the way with high-end features such as automatic brightness adjustment (Dolby Vision IQ) or advanced built-in Dolby Atmos speaker systems, resulting in its TVs ranking among the best TVs for sound.

Panasonic's MyHomeScreen smart platform has often lagged behind other TV operating systems such as Samsung's Tizen or LG's webOS, but its products are still a consistent contender among elite TVs.

However, despite its commercial connection to Hollywood, Panasonic TVs haven't been on sale for US citizens in around a decade. The company pulled from the US consumer market in 2016 in the face of widespread, low-cost LCD production, which coincided with flagging sales of the plasma TVs Panasonic had become synonymous with.

These days, Panasonic makes some of the best OLED TVs, but then again so does LG, Sony, Philips, and even the long-time OLED detractor Samsung.

And while Panasonic has since re-entered the US market, and released a series of OLED TVs featuring Amazon's Fire TV smart platform, it may be a little too late for the company to catch up with the competition.

A new era?

Of course, a sale of Panasonic's TV business could see the line-up continue under the guidance of another electronics company – and it's possible that the Panasonic name could continue to be used on TVs under license, much as with Toshiba or Sharp TVs today.

As a fan of Panasonic's TVs, I'd certainly be concerned of a drop in quality in this case, or a pivot away from Panasonic's blockbuster OLED reputation – the models it makes feel so uncompromized, and it's hard to imagine them staying that way if another company took over.

By the sounds of it, there isn't a confirmed buyer yet for Panasonic's TV business, and executives are looking to address several areas of Panasonic's expansive electronics empire, including consumer appliances, industrial devices (motors, sensors, compressors) and mechatronic systems – meaning the TV business might not be the first thing on the auction block.

But Kusumi spoke of "drastic measures" to come by the end of the 2025/2026 financial year, so it's clear that everything is on the table. I just hope that the fruits of Panasonic's TV labor won't disappear in the process.

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Panasonic Lumix G97 two-minute review

The Panasonic Lumix G97 is effectively an updated refresh of the 2019 Lumix G95/90, with a higher-resolution rear screen, the video recording limit removed, and a new USB-C port for charging and power. Granted, that doesn’t sound like much of an update – but when you use the G97 you realize just how responsive, well-made and powerful this camera still is, even by todays’ standards.

It does have a 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is half the size of the sensors in its APS-C rivals, which also offer more resolution at 24-26MP+. This has some effect on the ultimate image quality, but perhaps not as much as you might expect, since the G97’s sensor has no anti-aliasing filter in order to maximize fine detail; and while there is more digital noise at higher sensitivities, you have to push the ISO quite a long way before it shows (and APS-C cameras also produce noise, of course).

And then there’s Panasonic’s somewhat controversial DFD contrast AF – the G97 does not employ Panasonic’s latest hybrid phase/contrast tech. Is it a problem? Not in stills photography, where the AF is extremely fast and responsive. You might notice the difference in video, though, where many users report the AF hunting or ‘pulsing’ as it keeps re-checking even stationary objects. It will depend on what you film, and how.

Let’s look at what this camera delivers elsewhere. You get an extremely effective in-body image stabilization system (the smaller sensor helps here), a good-quality EVF where most rivals at this price don’t have one at all, a 1.84m-dot vari-angle touchscreen, a twin-dial control system (three dials, if you count the one on the back) and, if you go for 12-60mm lens bundle, one of the best kit lenses out there, both for zoom range and for real-world image quality. Really, this is an enthusiast-level camera at a beginner-level price.

Panasonic Lumix G97: Release date and price

• $850 / £799 with Lumix G 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6
• £699 body only (UK)
• £899 with Lumix G 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 II (UK)

At launch, the Lumix G97 is being offered only as a bundle with the Lumix G 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens in the US, but in the UK you can buy it body-only or with the Lumix G 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 10x zoom. They’re all great deals, but the 12-60mm bundle looks the best for new users.

It’s worth pointing out that this is a 24-120mm equivalent 5x zoom that goes well beyond the range of most kit zooms, and it’s also rather good.

At these prices, the Lumix G97 is just about the cheapest new mirrorless camera on the market, matched closely on price by the OM System OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. The Canon EOS R100 is cheaper still, but does not have IBIS, has weak 4K video features, and does not come with a lens to rival the Panasonic’s excellent kit lens.

• Price score 5/5

Panasonic Lumix G97: Specifications

Panasonic Lumix G97: Design and handling

• DSLR-style design with twin control dials
• 1.84m-dot vari-angle touchscreen
• 5-axis 5-stop IBIS

The Lumix G97 looks and handles like a small DSLR. It might seem unnecessarily large for a camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor, but the fact is that there is a limit as to how small you can make a camera that still fits a human hand properly – especially one which takes interchangeable lenses.

Where you do see an advantage from the smaller sensor is in the smaller and lighter lenses this system uses. The 12-60mm (24-120mm equivalent) kit lens is a great example – it offers a 5x zoom range in a lens that’s little larger or heavier than a 3x kit zoom on a larger-format camera.

There’s a decent-sized grip on the right side of the body that provides a secure hold, leaving your other hand free to operate the lens or the flip-out touchscreen. If you prefer to use the EVF, that's bright and clear, and has an eye sensor to switch from the LCD to the viewfinder automatically.

The main mode dial is clearly labelled and has a firm, positive action. There are two control dials on the top, one around the shutter release and the other at the rear, right where your thumb lies. These do different things in different modes; in Manual mode, for example, the front dial adjusts the lens aperture and the rear dial changes the shutter speed. These dials are firm, positive and perfectly weighted. In between them is a prominent red Record button for video.

Round the back there’s a useful three-position focus mode lever with an AF-L/AE-L button in the center and a four-way controller with a rotary dial around the outside – though this does not have the same feel as the control dials on the top.

Overall, this feels an extremely well-made camera for the money, with all the controls right where you need them – there are buttons for white balance, ISO and EV compensation on the top, and a Q.MENU button on the back to bring up an on-screen display with more camera settings.

A focus-point joystick would have been nice to make setting the focus point easier, but you only get these on more advanced semi-pro cameras, so you can’t really complain – and you can always use the touchscreen to set the AF point.

• Design and handling score 4/5

Panasonic Lumix G97: Performance

• Excellent definition and contrast from 20MP sensor and great kit lens
• Very fast AF for single-shot stills photography
• Continuous AF less good, and occasionally some ‘pulsing’ with video

The Lumix G97 delivers first-rate detail rendition. The lack of a low-pass filter and a kit lens that delivers super-sharp detail right across its focal range makes for a combination that plenty of APS-C cameras can’t match. Higher ISOs do show noise quicker, it’s true, but not by much. Besides, today’s AI noise-reduction tools can make an ISO 6,400 image look practically like ISO 200.

The G97’s video looks good too, though with only 8-bit internal capture there’s a limit to how far you can push things if you want to grade your footage heavily later. It does come with Panasonic’s V-Log profile, a paid add-on for many Lumix models, but this really needs better-quality 10-bit 4:2:2 capture to work on, and you can only get that with the G97 via an external recorder. It’s fine for basic use and if you’re just starting out vlogging, but it’s not a serious filmmaking tool.

The autofocus is a mixed bag. For stills photography, it’s extremely fast and responsive. In burst mode, it’s a little less positive, though given that the G97 can only manage 6fps with continuous autofocus, it’s not really intended to be an action specialist.

The AF generally does a good job for video, refocusing smoothly as your subject distance changes or you reframe the shot. Its characteristic ‘pulsing’ effect is often hard to see, but if you’re filming a static subject and background it can be quite annoying. One solution is to switch to single-shot AF and simply tap the rear screen while filming to refocus – carefully!

The IBIS is excellent. It’s only rated at five stops, but this is actually a consistent and achievable figure, unlike the bigger numbers often quoted for larger-sensor cameras – which are often absolute best-case figures you can rarely approach.

• Performance score 4/5

Should I buy the Panasonic Lumix G97?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Panasonic Lumix G97

• I spent two weeks photographing and filming a variety of subjects
• I tested the 5x zoom kit lens across its range of focal lengths
• I checked if the 5-stop IBIS lived up to its claims
• I tested autofocus performance for stills and video AF/tracking
• I assessed the image detail and quality against APS-C rivals

I tested the Lumix G97 and its 12-60mm kit lens on many different subjects including outdoor still images, action sequences (with a very excited dog), close-ups and indoor shots, and in a variety of lighting conditions.

Panasonic’s DFD autofocus has not always had the best reputation, so I particularly wanted to find out if and when it struggled, and what to look for.

I also wanted to check the definition of Panasonic’s 20MP MFT sensor, which has no low-pass filter, to see how it stacked up against larger-sensor APS-C rivals. The 12-60mm kit lens is particularly interesting because it offers a 5x zoom range compared to the 3x zoom of most kit lenses, and I did want to see how the image quality varied across the zoom range, and whether it declined at all at longer focal-length settings.

Lastly, the IBIS system in the G97 is only rated at five stops of compensation, so I wanted to find out just how achievable that was in real-world shooting.

The best cheap soundbars offer you an easy way to get clearer, bolder sound from your TV than its built-in speakers are capable of. Small and budget TVs especially have very little effort and physical space given to their sound output, which often leaves the sound feeling thin, artificial and sometimes straight-up hard to hear.

The best cheap soundbars won't give a big home theater experience like the best soundbars at higher budgets, but they'll solve those problems – they'll make dialogue clearer, give movie soundtracks some extra thump, and deliver higher volumes without becoming grating and unpleasant. And we know this because we've tested every model we recommend here – along with plenty of others we haven't recommended that aren't as good.

What are we classing as cheap soundbars? We're going from models that cost under $100/£100 up to $400/£300 for our top pick, the Sony HT-S2000. However, every model here is regularly discounted, and the Sony HT-2000 can be found for under $300 – our automatic price-finding tools on this page should help you find the lowest prices whenever you're looking.

We tested these cheap soundbars in the real world, in our homes, and in comparison to built-in TV speakers as well as each other – so these really are the choices that we're happy to live with ourselves.

The quick list

Here's our quick run-down of the best budget soundbars, based on our testing – all with different needs in mind. You can click through for a more in-depth write-up for any of them.

The best cheap soundbars: the list

The best cheap soundbar overall

What you need to know: By striking just the right balance between impressive sound quality, strong Dolby Atmos performance and at a more than reasonable price point, there's no better-value affordable soundbar than the Sony HT-S2000 in our book. Comfortably superior to pretty much all built-in TV speakers (and definitely all budget or mid-range TVs), Sony’s soundbar is terrific value for money, which is why we can quite easily look past its very limited issues.

Audio performance: The audio the 3.1-channel Sony HT-S2000 produces sound that can full small and mid-size rooms, though it may struggled in big rooms. Its clear strengths are the sharp and clear dialogue it delivers, while we’re also big fans of its virtual surround sound that does a good job of mimicking a multi-speaker setup. Dolby Atmos performance also punches well above its weight for the money Sony is asking for the HT-S2000, and bass levels are also pleasingly punchy – though not at the level a dedicated subwoofer delivers.

Design: Our favorite design feature of the HT-S2000? That would have to be the cool visual feedback you get when using its remote control (a feature that’s rarely seen in budget soundbars). On top of that, the general look of this bar is assured, and we’re quite taken with its sturdy metal grill on its front. The sturdy plastic casing that houses its speakers also feels reasonably premium for a cheap soundbar.

Value: While it obviously can’t quite cut the mustard against more premium soundbars, the HT-2000 provides excellent value at around $349 / £299 /AU$695. The fact it hands in confident Dolby Atmos performance is what just edges it as our favorite cheap soundbar of the moment.

Read our full Sony HT-S2000 review

The best super-cheap soundbar in the US

What you need to know: Officially priced at $65 but often found on sale for less than $50, the Majority Naga 60 is almost absurdly cheap. Normally, budget soundbars selling at the most affordable level like this would be blighted by subpar audio, yet that’s simply not the case with the Naga 60. Capable of surprisingly clear – not to mention loud – sound, the fact it comes with a built-in bass system and 3D audio support round off a quality soundbar that belies its meager price.

Audio performance: The Majority Naga 60 is ideally suited to pair with a second/bedroom TV, because you’ll notice a significant jump in quality over your set’s speakers. Does the Naga 60’s audio dip in quality played at its highest volume? A little. But at this price, that’s a relatively minor quibble we can overlook. This soundbar’s outward-pointing tweeters power the Naga 60’s admittedly limited 3D audio processing, yet it’s still nice that such a cheap bar has this feature in the first place. With defined and clear highs and a reasonably full-bodied mid-range performance, there’s quite a lot to like about the Naga 60’s audio performance, even if it obviously lack detail and soundstaging compared to more expensive soundbars.

Design: The Majority Naga 60 has a basic, no-frills design with four top surface control buttons that let you tweak the soundbar’s volume and turn it on or off. Though it may look basic, it hides a small subwoofer and side-firing tweeters under that workmanlike shell. It also sports a relatively generous variety of connections on its rear, including an HDMI ARC, optical digital port, 3.5mm analog audio input and separate subwoofer output.

Value: At just $65, the Majority Naga 60 offers superb value for money. If you’re looking for a solid 2.1-channel soundbar that offers an effort at 3D audio at a super-affordable price, there’s plenty to love about the Naga 60 despite some audio shortcomings.

Read our full Majority Naga 60 review

The best super-cheap soundbar in the UK

What you need to know: An aggressively priced, full-sized soundbar that you can often find for £79 or under, making this one of the best cheap bars for UK buyers. Alright, so the sound quality of the Panasonic SC-HTB100 isn’t exactly mind-blowing, yet it’s more than respectable when it’s going for such a bank balance-friendly price tag. And the SC-HTB100’s biggest strength? It’s confident clarity when it comes to handling voices, which is what a lot of us want most compared to budget TV speakers.

Audio performance: At such an affordable price point, it’s tough to overly grumble over this soundbar’s lack of support for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. Considering it’s a 2.0-channel bar, it also lacks a subwoofer or rear speakers. Still, its three main EQ modes – Movie, News and Music – provide well-rounded sounds, whether you’re watching your favorite blockbuster on a 4K Blu-ray or catching up with the latest (no doubt gloomy) breaking headlines. Sure, bass isn’t going to shake your room like the T.rex approaching in Jurassic Park, but speech is handled with impressive clarity.

Design: While the Panasonic SC-HTB100 is far from ugly, it has some design flaws (such as its slightly plasticky outer casing) that can prove distracting. But the worst aesthetic offender? That would be the underwhelming front display on this soundbar. Instead of a full LED display, Panasonic has gone with a difficult to make out and annoyingly small LED light that requires you to read the manual front and back to get a good grip on its functions. And while the included remote is welcome, the buttons are a little sluggish, especially when trying to tinker with the soundbar’s volume.

Value: There’s a lot to commend about this sub-£100 soundbar. On the audio front, you’re unlikely to feel short changed if you pick up the Panasonic SC-HTB100. Vocals are clear, connectivity options are fairly impressive, it’s easy to set up, and its three main sound modes do a decent job whether you’re listening to music or watching your favorite flicks. Build quality feels a little cheap, but overall this bar represents good value.

Read our full Panasonic SC-HTB100 review

The best cheap soundbar for surround sound

What you need to know: A four-box soundbar system that provides plenty of bang for your buck. Though it’s not all that fancy, the surround sound it offers at such an ultra-low price point isn’t to be taken for granted. Though general audio could use a bit of a bass boost, it's way beyond what cheaper TVs can provide. It has an easy setup process, and once you’ve got it going, proves itself a good performer across movies, TV shows and games.

Audio performance: Like every other soundbar on this list the Ultimea Poseidon D50 offers a superior audio experience than you’re likely to get from your TV’s speakers. Also, the fact it has a name that evokes a 1970s disaster flick is a big bonus. Thanks to its claimed 400W power output, it packs considerable oomph that offers both a meaty and wide soundscape. A lack of Dolby Atmos or DTS: X means spatial audio is off the table, yet its Ultimea BassMax tech provides decent bass levels. Alright, so the rear speakers are a tad quiet, yet the Poseidon D5 still provides a commendable surround sound package for folks on a budget.

Design: The Ultimea Poseidon D50 is roughly as sexy as a celery salad… though that doesn’t mean it’s flatout ugly. Though it’s on the cheap-looking side, it certainly doesn’t look bad for a budget piece of audio tech. While it looks more plasticky than we’d like, the fact it comes with a remote (even if Ultimea skimps on the batteries) is appreciated.

Value: If you’re in the market for a super-budget 5.1 soundbar, you can't do better than the Ultimea Poseidon D50. Its surround sound is more than adequate and despite lacking Dolby Atmos support and not boasting the beast rear speakers, we'd still say it's a strong $129 / £99 / AU$180 surround sound bar.

Read our full Ultimea Poseidon D50 review

The best cheap soundbar for music

What you need to know: The cheapest soundbar Sonos currently makes, the Ray is gorgeous and compact, and will deliver a massive upgrade on your TV’s built-in speakers. Though it’s a shame there’s no HDMI ARC port, but the fact it uses an optical digital connection ensures it will work with any remotely modern TV – but means its volume isn't automatically controlled by your TV. However, Sonos' setup process adds remote control setup as part of its steps, and it was fast and seamless for us, and then you never think about it again. Its four-speaker driver setup and bass ports deliver clear, impactful dialogue and power for movies, but are also excellent with tunes, unlike most soundbars here. The fact the Ray is so small also makes it a great choice to pair with a TV from 24 to 55 inches.

Audio performance: While it’s a shame the Sonos Ray doesn’t support Dolby Atmos like the more expensive Sonos Arc Ultra and Sonos Beam (Gen 2), it still delivers the sort of top-tier sound quality you’d expect from Sonos. The Ray’s two drivers provide width to this little bar’s soundscape, and when it comes to listening to music or squeezing the most out of an epic movie soundtrack, the Ray absolutely shines. This pocket rocket delivers full and bassy audio that also provides clarity from angles. It's so well-balanced, delivering impressive low-end as well as solid treble performance – instruments pop and dialogue is detailed, ensuring the Ray is a great choice for listening to basically anything.

Design: Available in either black or white, the Sonos Ray is understated and solidly constructed. Its flat front grille is mercifully resistant to dust and its touch controls on the top of the soundbar make using the Ray as a smart Sonos speaker a doddle when you want to tweak the volume of your tunes or pause them mid-action. The Ray is unfussy and adorably proportioned.

Value: The Sonos Ray provides good value for money… just not quite great value at $169 / £149 / AU$250. Cheaper rivals offer HDMI connections, and this may frustrate some people. And if you’re looking for Dolby Atmos support and can spare a little more money, the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) might be a better option. When it comes to playing music, though, you won’t find a better cheap soundbar.

Read our full Sonos Ray review

How to choose the best cheap soundbar for you

When it comes to buying one of the best cheap soundbars, as clichéd as it sounds, beggars can’t afford to be choosers – but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon hope of good sound quality. It's just about prioritisation.

The key factors to consider are size, features and connectivity. If you own a TV that’s less than 42 inches, you’ll want a compact bar. After all, there’s no point in owning a soundbar that’s wider than your TV.

The next consideration should be whether you want surround sound tech, such as rear speakers, or Dolby Atmos support. Atmos should be considered optional – it requires additional speakers and processing to do well, and having it in a bar that can't really do anything with the positional audio data won't improve anything. But some budget bars can get good effects out of it.

Connectivity is the other major factor. Though once again, when you’re dealing with a limited budget, you can’t be too choosy. Ideally, you want a bar with HDMI ARC (audio return channel), but as you go down the price bracket, this becomes less common. The advantage of it is high-quality sound and the bar will be automatically controlled by your TV's remote over the cable – and this is necessary for Dolby Atmos. Soundbars that don't have this will use an optical digital connection, which is high-quality, but doesn't have the smarts and simplicity of HDMI – to control the soundbar's volume with your TV remote, you'd need an infrared learning process.

Design should probably be your least important consideration when choosing a cheap soundbar, but obviously it does matter to people. Most will be plain black lozenges, though – it's usually a matter of build quality. We think if you focus on sound first, most of these devices will just disappear the way they're meant to.

How we test the best cheap soundbars

We've tested all of these soundbars ourselves, and we tested them in real-world conditions – ie, in the homes of our writers, where we can use them day-in and day-out to get a feel for what they're really like to live with, and to compare with the speakers of TVs to see how much of an improvement they are.

Our testers have experience with soundbars of all different kinds, ranging from powerful Dolby Atmos beasts to super-small and cheap options, so they know which budget soundbars cheaped out too far and aren't worth the price, and which actually offer a good-value upgrade.

We test the soundbars with all the things people usually watch – big bold movies, quiet dramas, talk TV, and music – and make notes of where they stand out, and where they might muddy things. For example, dialogue might actually be less clear than a TV's built-in speakers, or they might struggle with clarity when turned way up due to limited amplification or speaker size.

We also run through the whole setup process to see how it works, including any extra features that are promised, and how easy they are to use. If they connect to devices other than the TV, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for music streaming, we'll test that too, since it can often have a very different sound balance compared to an HDMI or optical digital connection.

Best cheap soundbars FAQs

Latest updates to this guide

24 January 2025
Totally overhauled our old budget soundbars recommendations with this new-look guide, based on our latest reviews.

It's not easy to make it to the top of our list of the best video cameras. You've got to hit all the right notes at the right time and be better than the rest. At the moment, only one camera does all that, and that is the Panasonic Lumix S5 II. We gave it a five-star rating for good reason.

Normally costing just shy of $2,000, you can now bag the Panasonic Lumix S5 II at B&H for $1,597.99 (was $1,997.99). This $400 brings one of the best mirrorless cameras down to an all-low price.

Today's best Panasonic Lumix S5 II deal

Our Panasonic Lumix S5 II review calls this excellent mirrorless camera "the full package for photo and video creators". We love the camera's 24MP full-frame sensor and 6K/30p video recording. The fact that almost all video options are available in 10-bit makes the offering even more impressive.

Videographers will love the ability to record in multiple video aspect ratios, including 16:9 and 3:2, with the latter taking full advantage of the full sensor area.

The camera also includes next-level image stabilization which is a game changer for run-and-gun filmmakers. If you love shooting hand-held, then you'll have no problem with clarity and sharpness.

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is an amazing camera but it's not the only kid on the block. For some of our other favorites, head over to our best mirrorless cameras guide. If you're sold on Sony as a brand, then we also have a best Sony cameras guide.

As CES 2025 draws to a close, there are a few key takeaways in the world of TVs including brighter OLEDs, like the LG G5, bigger screens, like Hisense's mammoth 136-inch and 163-inch micro-LED TVs, as well as the introduction of new technologies like Samsung's 8K TV with an RGB micro-LED backlight.

One market, however, looks like it'll be just as competitive if not more so than it did in 2025; and that's mini-LED TVs. Some of the best TVs on the market are mini-LED TVs. Highlights from 2024 included the Samsung QN90D, Hisense U8N and the ground-breaking Sony Bravia 9, but there were so many more models that could count themselves among the best mini-LED TVs.

2025 looks set to be another big year for mini-LED TVs, with some exciting tech innovations introduced at CES. Mini-LED TVs from Samsung, Hisense, TCL and Panasonic have been confirmed – and Sony hasn't even announced its sets yet!

The state of mini-LED in 2025

Samsung revealed its 2025 mini-LED TV lineup and the most eye-catching news was the introduction of Glare Free tech to the Samsung QN90F and QN990F, its 2025 flagship 4K and 8K models. The reflection beating tech (which is a matte screen) was first introduced in 2024 on the Samsung S95D, one of the best OLED TVs on the planet.

We were blown away by the effectiveness of the Glare Free tech on the S95D, so adding it to the QN90F – which we expect to have high brightness levels and great motion processing like its predecessor the QN90D – is likely to make it one of the best TVs for sport. This is one for sports fans to keep an eye on.

One of the other major reveals at CES was the introduction of Hisense's RGB mini-LED backlit TV, the 116-inch UX. Hisense says the new tech will provide bolder, more vibrant colors and 10,000 nits of peak brightness, while also being 10% more energy efficient. We saw the 116UX in person and its as vibrant as promised.

This is likely to be a super-premium TV, with the 110-inch UXN with a standard mini-LED backlight retailing for a hefty $15,000 / £20,000 (roughly AU$24,000) so you can expect the 116UX to be even pricier, but its still an exciting new tech.

TCL also revealed a new type of mini-LED backlight, which demonstrated more precise backlight control and higher brightness of up to a mind-blowing 50% increase in its 2025 mini-LED TV lineup, without compromising the image's darker areas.

Panasonic introduced the W95B in its 2025 TV lineup, while LG announced two mini-LED sets, the QNED99 and QNED92, into its 2025 QNED TV lineup. While these didn't quite have the same headline-grabbing innovations as the sets above, they are still set to be packing with excellent gaming features and upgraded processors promising higher brightness once again and better contrast.

These are just some of the mini-LED TV models we can expect in 2025. We're waiting to hear about Sony's 2025 lineup, which could include the successor to the brilliant Sony Bravia 9. The Bravia 9 is a mini-LED TV with OLED-rivaling contrast and black levels, so could Sony look to one-up it?

We're also still waiting to hear about Hisense's latest ULED lineup, which follows on from last year's Hisense U8N, U7N and U6N, and these along with TCL's other sets are sure to make up the backbone of the mid-range and budget mini-LED sets in 2025.

The battle rages on and we're spoilt for choice

While these brands will be looking for mini-LED supremacy, we're the real winners. These brands are looking to make their TVs faster, brighter, more colorful and detailed than ever before – and they'll be looking to offer the best prices they can to tempt us into choosing a mini-LED over an OLED.

Brands are starting to invest in bigger screens through their lineups too, with Hisense's 116-inch UX, Samsung's 115-inch QN90F and the TCL 98-inch QM6K just some of the larger mini-LED sets on offer. While these screens will exceed most people's budgets, does this mean we could see a price drop on smaller sizes? Hisense is most likely to offer this, but we'll be keeping an eye out on prices as they are revealed over the coming months. Plus, we can all still dream of a cinema sized screen and having the option is always going to get a thumbs-up from me.

It's also great to see so many tech innovations coming through for mini-LED TVs as well. A common problem for mini-LED TVs is backlight blooming (where light surrounds brighter objects on dark backgrounds, creating a halo effect) but if these new innovations can reduce this issue altogether, then that just means better TVs for us.

Higher brightness, both peak and fullscreen, is always a theme in new mini-LED TVs. While the numbers are reaching eye-watering heights of 10,000 nits plus, it means more eye-catching pictures and less reflections for those of us with bright rooms. Yet another positive thanks to the spirit of competition.

2025 is shaping up to be the most hotly contested year for mini-LED TVs in years and I can't wait to find out who's going to come out on top. Thankfully for us, it looks like we're going to be spoilt for choice.

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• Panasonic reveals its 2025 TV lineup
• The range is headlined by the flagship Z95B OLED TV
• The lineup includes the W95B mini-LED and W70B LED TVs

Panasonic has revealed its 2025 TV lineup at CES 2025. The reveal consists of three TVs – the flagship Z95B, the W95B mini-LED, and the W70B, a more entry-level LED TV. There is currently no pricing info or release dates for these models.

The Panasonic Z95B, successor to the Panasonic Z95A, one of 2024's best OLED TVs, is the flagship set in the 2025 lineup. It will use a new 'Primary RGB Tandem Panel' instead of the micro-lens array (MLA) OLED panel used in its predecessor, which Panasonic says will result in higher brightness, better detail and greater color volume.

The Panasonic W95B will have an improved mini-LED panel with up to 2.5x more dimming zones compared to last year's W95A, which will result in improved contrast and better black levels.

The entry-level Panasonic LED series will support HDR10+ (decode only), HDR10 and HLG formats and will have a slim-bezel design.

All three sets use Fire TV as their smart TV platform. Both the Z95B and W95B will feature a new Prime Video Calibrated Mode, a picture mode optimized for watching Amazon Prime Video content, as well as Calman and ISF calibration tools to fine-tune picture settings, a first for a Fire TV model. In the US, both the Z95B and W95B will also feature an ATSC 3.0 NEXTGEN TV tuner for broadcast TV.

The Z95B and W95B will be available in both the US and the UK, while the W70B will be available in the US only. Scroll down for more detailed information on each TV.

Panasonic Z95B OLED TV

The Panasonic Z95B will be available in 55, 65 and 77-inch sizes, with the smallest and largest models available for the first time in the US (the Z95A was only available in a 65-inch size last year).

The Z95B's biggest upgrade over its predecessor, the Z95A, is a new quad-layer Primary RGB Tandem Panel, which is coupled with Panasonic's own ThermalFlow cooling system. Panasonic says this will make the Z95B bolder, brighter, more colorful and more detail-rich than the Z95A.

The new panel is in place of the micro-lens-array(MLA) OLED panel used in the Z95A, as well as the LG G4. It's not officially confirmed whether this quad-layer panel is the same 'four-stack' panel set to feature in the LG M5 and G5 OLEDs, but this seems likely.

The Z95B features an HCX Pro AI Processor MK II, which will support both Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ HDR formats. There is also a Precision Detail feature, designed to "unlock more from Dolby Vision content".

The Z95B's built-in speaker system has been re-designed to allow for a wider soundstage and improved processing for spatial audio. It will support Dolby Atmos audio format as well. If its speaker system is anything like the Z95A's, which was arguably the best TV for sound released in 2024, we have high hopes.

The Z95B supports gaming features you'd expect to find on the best gaming TVs, including 4K 144Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync), ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming, as well as a True Game Mode.

Panasonic W95B mini-LED TV

The Panasonic W95B is the mini-LED entry in Panasonic's 2025 TV lineup. It will be available in 55, 65, 75 and 85-inch sizes in both the US and UK.

The W95B features a mini-LED panel that will deliver enhanced contrast, better black levels and better detail than previous mini-LED models, according to Panasonic. With 2.5x more local dimming zones than the W95A (this depends on screen size), the W95B promises better backlight control, resulting in an overall better picture.

The W95B will feature the same HCX Pro AI Processor MKII found in the Z95B. It will support Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ formats, along with a Precision Detail feature that "unlocks more from Dolby Vision content".

The W95B is also well suited for gaming, with 4K 144Hz, AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync VRR, ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming, which is also supported at 144Hz.

The W95B's built-in sound system has yet to be confirmed, but we do there is a 20W subwoofer included.

Panasonic W70B LED TV

The Panasonic W70B will be available in the US in 43, 50, 55, 65, 70, 75 and 85-inch sizes.

The W70B uses an LED panel and supports 4K HDR formats including HDR10+ (though this is decoded), HDR10 and HLG. It will also feature MEMC for fast-paced images and sports viewing.

There are four HDMI ports for connectivity, though there is no confirmation as to whether any of these will support HDMI 2.1 for gaming.

The W70B will feature voice control as part of Fire TV, which can be exectuted using the Alexa voice remote.

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• Samsung announces 2025 OLED TVs, with next-gen Glare Free tech and 165Hz gaming support
• Hisense’s 2025 TVs go real big, including a 116-inch mini-LED TV – the largest one yet

We’re covering all of the latest CES news from the show as it happens. Stick with us for the big stories on everything from 8K TVs and foldable displays to new phones, laptops, smart home gadgets, and the latest in AI.

And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok for the latest from the CES show floor!

• Toughbook 33mk4 features MIL-STD 810H military standard certification
• Advanced 5G connectivity ensures seamless data transfer in the field
• Extended 15 hours battery life promises long-life usage

Panasonic has announced the TOUGHBOOK 33mk4, a new rugged tablet promising 2-in-1 functionality and enhancements in performance, connectivity, and screen technology.

The device was designed to for the needs of mobile workers across various industries, meeting both the MIL-STD 810H military standard developed by the US Department of Defense as well as the IEC 60529 industry standard for electronic devices.

The TOUGHBOOK 33mk4 integrates Intel's 13th-generation processors, advanced 5G connectivity, and a unique 12-inch Quad High Definition (QHD) display that boosts usability in field environments.

Toughbook 33mk4

The TOUGHBOOK 33mk4 comes with an Intel Core i5 processor from the 13th generation, featuring Intel vPro Technology, also known as "Raptor Lake." This device also has an optional upgrade which uses the Intel Core i7 processor which offers greater computing power and is for users with more demanding tasks.

The 12-inch QHD screen of the TOUGHBOOK 33mk4 is not the largest around, but does come with a resolution of 2160 x 1440 pixels and an aspect ratio of 3:2, offering more vertical space compared to the traditional 16:9 seen in many larger 14-inch models.

This improvement in display design meets a shift in user preference, where larger and more detailed screens are necessary for increased productivity in the field. Panasonic believes that for professionals in industries such as utilities, automotive, and defense, this display means easier navigation and interpretation of complex visual information.

The TOUGHBOOK 33mk4 supports 5G connectivity out of the box, offering mobile workers faster data transfer speeds, ultra-low latency, and improved reliability in various environments. It also supports standalone (SA) 5G networks enabling users to securely transfer large amounts of data while in the field. Moreover, the device’s optional GPS and improved Bluetooth technology further increase its connectivity flexibility.

This notebook is also rated IP65 for dust and water resistance making it suitable for use in harsh conditions, and also boasts 15 hours of battery life, making it suitable for long work shifts where charging may not be immediately available.

With certification for Red Hat Enterprise Linux, the TOUGHBOOK 33mk4 is ideal for businesses that require secure, Linux-based solutions, expanding its appeal to more sectors where security and compatibility are paramount.

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• The Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 updates the ZS80 / TZ80 with USB-C charging
• It features a massive 30x optical zoom, and shoots 20MP photos and 4K video
• Panasonic also announced the Lumix G97 mirrorless camera, designed to replace the cheap Lumix G95

One thing I didn't have on my 2024 bingo card was a new Lumix point-and-shoot camera, even though it's a trending market. But Panasonic just surprised us by announcing the Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 (it's called the former in the US and the latter elsewhere), which will be available from February 2025.

The Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 packs a Leica lens with a whopping 30x optical zoom – a 24-720mm range that's way more versatile than your smartphone, and which can be doubled digitally to 60x using Panasonic's iZoom feature.

It's a pocketable snapper that weighs just 11.35oz / 322g and features a 1.84m-dot tilt touchscreen, plus a new quick-send image button for smartphone uploads via Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth v5.0.

You can shoot 20.3MP photos, 4K video up to 30fps, and HD video 120fps, plus there's a new vertical video mode, all supported by Panasonic's 5-axis Hybrid Optical image stabilization, which should ensure crisp detail even when you're zoomed right in.

However, we've seen virtually all of this tech before in the Panasonic Lumix ZS80 / TZ80, the 2016 model that the new ZS99 / TZ99 essentially replaces. So why are we getting a new Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 all these years later? Well, crucially the new camera supports USB-C charging, thus adhering to the EU's Common Charger Directive that comes into force in 2025. We saw a similar move by Panasonic earlier in the year when it revived one of its bridge cameras.

Panasonic keeps point-and-shoot alive, just

The USB-C charging port is the only significant update in the Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 that I can see over the Lumix ZS80 / TZ80 model it replaces. That predecessor is now almost 10 years old, although, as is the case with other Lumix point-and-shoots, you'll struggle to find one new to buy, especially since they will all eventually be pulled from the shelves.

Panasonic has even downgraded the newer model by removing the predecessor's electronic viewfinder, presumably in order to squeeze in the new USB-C port and buttons. That's a real shame, and it hardly fills me with excitement for the new model.

While I would have preferred meaningful updates and certainly no downgrade, it's good to see Panasonic keeping the Lumix point-and-shoot line alive. The Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 on-sale date is set for mid-February 2025, and it'll cost $499 / £469 / AU$999.

Might we see a properly upgraded point-and-shoot in the future? I hope so. For now, though, I can recommend the Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 for those looking for a decent cheap compact camera.

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TechRadar Pro was recently invited to the 50th anniversary of Panasonic’s Cardiff factory, where the company revealed a new leap forward for sustainability.

By retrofitting the site with pioneering hydrogen cell technology, Panasonic has built a fully self-sufficient production line.

Panasonic’s microwave oven assembly factory on the outskirts of Cardiff has been running since 1976, and is now being fitted with state-of-the-art hydrogen fuel cells, dubbed Panasonic HX, powered by green hydrogen, solar PV, and battery storage - just in time for its 50th birthday.

The first of its kind in Europe

“This is very much a beacon project for us and as far as we're aware, we are the only ones really with such an initiative with hydrogen fuel cells in using it with our proprietary EMS system,” Managing Director Robert Blowers told TechRadar Pro.

The technology is only currently in use in Japan, where Panasonic has already invested over £100 million into renewable energy projects. The project in Cardiff was a £20 million venture, and comes with significant education investment for the 400 employees already working on-site.

“I think that this facility could be used as a very strong education conduit, not necessarily just (for) today and business leaders today, but (for) the next generation. Panasonic has a very ambitious green impact target, so by 2030 all 250 global plants are planned to be net zero,” noted Blowers.

Production at the plant is set to be much greener, with electricity sourced renewably, from both in-house solar energy and from UK produced hydrogen.

The introduction of Panasonic HX is part of wider commitments by the company to sustainable and green energy, and one it hopes will be introduced in manufacturing sites around the world.

Ultra-efficient

The plant is powered by solar panels and green hydrogen, which is obtained through the process of the electrolysis of water. The key to this is the process is entirely powered by renewable energy, so is non-polluting and is the cleanest form of hydrogen.

Panasonic’s 21 5KW fuel cells have a 95% energy efficiency rate when converting green hydrogen into electricity and heat energy.

Efficiency is the name of the game all round, as the heat generated by the hydrogen cells, as a by-product of the electricity production, will be used to heat spaces and domestic hot water - and with the onsite electricity production, the factory will benefit from a more reliable electricity supply.

Why Wales?

If you’re raising your eyebrows at the thought of solar panels in Wales, you’re not alone. But Cardiff’s volatile climate is a feature, not a bug - "If you can succeed in Wales, you can succeed anywhere in the world," joked Hiroshi Suzuki, the new Japanese Ambassador to the UK.

There are a few reasons Panasonic chose Cardiff, Blowers adds. There’s an image of sustainability that is tied to new contemporary buildings, so the transformation of a 50 year old site into a beacon of green energy is helping Panasonic create a framework for others to follow.

South Wales is also home to a ‘green hydrogen cluster’, meaning the hydrogen can be sourced from a local partner, minimising the carbon footprint of transportation. There’s a ‘movement’ in the UK and Europe, Blowers says, that values sustainability, an appetite for renewables that makes Cardiff the perfect fit.

Building a ‘hydrogen society’

Whilst this is only a proof of concept so far, Panasonic is so confident in the tech, that it already has plans to retrofit a similar site in Germany, and is scouting for potential partners in Europe.

As well as its commitment to renewables, Panasonic is working towards reducing its CO2 emissions from its operations to ‘virtually Net Zero by 2030’, and aims to contribute a total of 110 million tonnes of its own emission impact through reduction and avoidance of CO2 emissions.

“This decentralised approach to energy demand management increases the company’s energy resilience in a volatile market. By integrating an energy management system and storage batteries, the factory will be able to scale its energy needs when ramping up productions, for example,” the company said.

Construction for this Energy Management System (EMS) started in August, and the proof of concept is already in operation, so although it’s not ready for a full-scale roll out, it can be adopted quickly.

Could this be the future of sustainable manufacturing? Panasonic certainly seems hopeful. CEO Masahiro Shinada hopes the site will be seen as a ‘birthplace of innovation’, and that Panasonic can lead the way in building a ‘hydrogen society’ and laying a foundation for a decarbonised future.

“So by 2050 we want to help society reduce 300 million tonnes of carbon emissions through new and existing technologies," Blowers concludes. "Now that's not only about building a group of concepts here, that's about educating the next generation of business leaders and the next generation of students in sustainable technologies. So I think that's an area where it's very exciting honestly speaking from a developmental point of view.”

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Streaming price increases getting you down? There's no better time to move onto 4K Blu-ray players, and become a 4K Blu-ray collector like me, as hidden among the Cyber Monday deals are two great offers on two of the best 4K Blu-ray players around: the Panasonic DP-UB820 and the Sony UBP-X700.

The Panasonic DP-UB820 has hit a near record-low of $349.98 at Amazon, which is only $2 more than its lowest-ever price and an excellent deal on this versatile 4K player.

If you're looking to save some money, the Sony UBP-X700 4K Blu-ray player is down to just $158 at Amazon. That's $10 more than its cheapest-ever price, but still a great deal on this 4K Blu-ray player that is budget in price, but more premium in performance.

In the UK, there aren't many great deals on these players unfortunately, but you can still get the Panasonic DP-UB820 for £296.98 at Amazon. We've seen this model drop to £249 before, but this is today's best deal.

Today's best 4K Blu-ray player deals in the US

Today's best 4K Blu-ray player deals in the UK

The Panasonic DP-UB820 sits at the top of the list of the best 4K Blu-ray players because no other play offers you this level of features and performance at such an excellent value price. Anytime it gets a discount, it's worth checking out.

I use the Panasonic DP-UB820 as my primary 4K Blu-ray player for testing the best TVs here at TechRadar and I even worked with it in my AV retail job, where it proved to be the workhorse of the 4K Blu-ray player world.

The Sony UBP-X700 is a fantastic budget player that has features and performance of a more premium player. It has Dolby Vision HDR support and seriously good picture quality for the price. It supports a wide range of discs, including Super Audio CD (SACD), something you don't find at this price.

If you're looking for a new TV to play your 4K Blu-ray player through, then check out our guide to the best Cyber Monday TV deals. There's a whole range of TV featured!

More of today's Cyber Monday sales in the US

• Amazon: TVs, smart home & air fryers from $12.99
• Apple: AirPods, iPads, MacBooks from $89.99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off 4K TVs, laptops & headphones
• B&H Photo: up to $900 off cameras, laptops, accessories
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs at Best Buy from $69.99
• Dell: best-selling Inspiron & XPS laptops from $279.99
• Dreamcloud: mattress deals from $349 + free shipping
• Holiday: decor, lights, Christmas trees & PJs from $10.99
• Home Depot: 40% off tools, appliances & furniture
• Lowe's: holiday decor, appliances & tools from $17.31
• Nectar: up to 50% off all mattresses
• Nordstrom: 46% off boots, coats, jeans & jewelry
• Samsung: $1,500+ off TVs, phones, watches & appliances
• Target: save on furniture, Halloween, tech & clothing
• Walmart: cheap TVs, robot vacs, furniture & appliances

More of today's Cyber Monday sales in the UK

• Amazon: up to 68% off toothbrushes and TVs
• AO: savings on games consoles and appliances
• Argos: up to 50% off toys, Lego, TVs and gifts
• Boots: up to 50% off Dyson, Oral-B and Philips
• Currys: big deals on TVs, appliances, laptops
• Dell: laptops, desktops, monitors from £299
• Dyson: up to £150 off
• Ebay: up to 50% off refurbished tech
• EE: up to £600 off Samsung and Apple
• John Lewis: up to £300 off appliances and TVs
• LG: £1,000 or more off TVs and appliances
• Samsung: up to £600 off TVs, phones and tablets
• Very: up to 30% off phones, appliances & clothing

With Black Friday well and truly underway, I've been scanning all the Black Friday deals I can find for the best TV offers. Thankfully, I've been spoilt for choice and below I've listed some of the best deals I've found so far.

So why did I choose the deals that I've listed below? Because I've reviewed every single TV in the list., so I know these are good TVs, and more importantly that these deals are worth your time. Among them are some of the best TVs on the market and there are huge discounts and even some record-low prices.

There's something here for everyone – from budget QLED models to mid-range mini-LEDs and even the most premium OLEDs. Two standout deals include the 55-inch Samsung S95D for £1,499 at Amazon, the cheapest we've ever seen our TV of the year, and the 65-inch Hisense U7N is down to £899 at Amazon, a big discount on an already excellent value mini-LED TV.

Today's best Black Friday TV deals

If I had to choose one of the TVs above, it would be the Samsung S95D. It's simply the best TV of 2024, delivering on all fronts at an elite level that no other TV can compete with. Its awesome picture, exquisite design, gaming features and great built-in sound all combine to create the complete TV package.

But there's something on this list for everyone, from three of the best mini-LED TVs (the Hisense U7N, TCL C805, and step-up TCL C855), to budget QLED options like the Samsung Q60D and Amazon Omni QLED. And let's not forget one of the best OLED TVs, the LG C4.

Seen this list and decided you're looking for something different? Then check out our Black Friday OLED TV deals guide for offers on premium OLED sets. Or, if you're looking for a sound upgrade for your new TV, be sure to check out our Black Friday soundbar deals guide.

More of today's best TV deals

More of today's Black Friday sales in the UK

• Amazon: up to 58% off Kindle and Echo
• AO: savings on games consoles and appliances
• Argos: up to 50% off toys, Lego, TVs and gifts
• Boots: up to 60% off Dyson, Oral-B and Philips
• Carphone Warehouse: iPhone from £19.99p/m
• Currys: deals on TVs, appliances, laptops
• Dell: laptops, desktops, monitors from £299
• Dunelm: deals on homewares and appliances
• Dyson: up to £150 off
• Ebay: up to 50% off refurbished tech
• EE Store: £40 off the PlayStation5 Pro
• Emma: up to 50% off mattresses
• Jessops: up to £900 off cameras and drones
• John Lewis: up to £300 off appliances and TVs
• LG: £1,000 or more off TVs and appliances
• Ninja: up to £70 off air fryers
• Samsung: up to £600 off TVs, phones and tablets
• Shark: up to £100 off vacuums
• Toolstation: discounts on tools and smart home
• Very: up to 30% off phones, appliances & clothing

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Two minute review

The Panasonic Z85A OLED TV is one of the entry-level models in Panasonic’s 2024 TV lineup, sitting below the Panasonic Z95A and Z90A. Along with the flagship OLED Panasonic Z95A OLED and W95A mini-LED, it is one of the first Panasonic TVs available in the US in over a decade.

The Panasonic Z85A sells for $1,599 / £1,599 and $1,799 / £1,999 for its 55 and 65-inch models, respectively, putting it in the same price range as some of the best OLED TVs such as the LG C4, Sony Bravia 8 and Philips OLED809.

Panasonic uses a standard W-OLED panel in the Z85A, which features the same HCX AI Pro II Processor found in step-up Panasonic models including the Panasonic Z95A. While its brightness levels are only average and there is some black crush in darker scenes, the picture quality on the Z85A is up there with the best TVs, with rich contrast, vibrant yet natural colors, deep blacks and realistic textures and details.

Sound quality on the Z85A is good overall. It won’t beat the best TVs for sound, but it does deliver punchy bass, clear dialogue and accurate placement of effects. Those looking for a cinematic experience may want to add one of the best soundbars, but for day to day viewing, the Z85A’s built-in sound is perfectly fine.

The Panasonic Z85A uses Fire TV as its built-in smart TV platform, and it’s a welcome change from Panasonic’s own my Home Screen interface used on previous TVs. There are fewer picture settings, but menus are more user-friendly, navigation is smoother and Amazon features such as Ambient Experience help make the Z85A feel like the complete package.

The Z85A carries many of the features we look for in the best gaming TVs. There are only two HDMI 2.1 ports, but 4K 120Hz, VRR (including AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia Gsync) ALLM and Dolby Vision gaming are all supported. Smooth performance and stunning graphics make the Z85A a fantastic OLED gaming TV.

The Panasonic Z85A is marginally pricier than rival mid-range OLEDs but mostly justifies its price thanks to its fantastic features and the sheer brilliance of its picture.

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Prices & release date

• Release date: October 2024
• 55-inch Z85A: $1,599 / £1,599
• 65-inch: Z85A: $1,799 / £1,999

The Panasonic Z85A is one of the entry-level models in Panasonic’s 2024 OLED TV lineup. It is available in 55- and 65-inch sizes in both the US and UK. Panasonic TVs are not sold in Australia.

The Panasonic Z85A has similar specs and tech as the LG C4, Sony Bravia 8 and Philips OLED809, but is priced slightly higher than those models. Prices have since dropped, however, with the 55-inch model now available for $1,499 / £1,299 and the 65-inch model available for $1,699 / £1,699, making it more competitive with its rivals.

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Specs

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Benchmark results

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Features

• W-OLED panel
• Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ Adaptive support
• Fire TV smart TV platform

The Panasonic Z85A features a W-OLED panel similar to that found in TVs such as the LG C4 and Sony Bravia 8 as opposed to the micro lens array (MLA) panel – a type that yields higher brightness – found in the step-up Panasonic Z95A. Unlike other OLED TVs in the US, it supports both the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats.

The new Panasonic HCX Pro AI MKII processor, which analyzes the picture on screen to adjust color, contrast and clarity on the fly, is used by the Panasonic Z85A, and It also has AI features that can be activated to monitor picture and sound quality and adjust based on the content being shown onscreen and the viewing environment.

For sound, the Panasonic Z85A has a 2.1-channel speaker array totaling 50W of power. It supports Dolby Atmos but not DTS. There also aren’t as many sound features or presets as you’ll find on the flagship Panasonic Z95A, though the Z85A does support Theater Surround Pro and has a port for connection to an external subwoofer for those wanting more bass.

The Panasonic Z85A features only two HDMI 2.1 ports but otherwise has an extensive list of gaming features. It supports 4K 120Hz, VRR (both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia GSync), ALLM, and Dolby Vision and HDR10+ gaming and also has a True Game Mode to optimize picture settings and a Game Control Board where those settings can be customized.

The Z85A’s Fire TV smart TV platform replaces the my Home Screen interface – the company’s own smart TV platform – found on previous Panasonic TVs. It supports major streaming apps including Netflix, Prime Video and Disney Plus, along with Max in the US. In the UK, you get Freely, the free TV service that allows you to stream broadcast TV live over Wi-Fi rather than relying on an aerial, and it supports UK-based streaming apps including BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In the US, it additionally comes with an ATSC 3.0 tuner.

• Features score: 4/5

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Picture quality

• Realistic textures and details
• Outstanding contrast and shadow detail
• Dynamic, vibrant colors

Since the Panasonic Z85A uses a standard W-OLED panel rather than the MLA OLED panel found in the Panasonic Z95A (and LG G4) or the Samsung S95D’s QD-OLED panel, I expected it to have peak brightness levels more in line with the LG C4, B4, Sony Bravia 8 and Philips OLED809.

The Z85A’s results were roughly what I anticipated if not a little low. Measuring brightness on a 10% HDR white window pattern, the Panasonic Z85A produced 697 nits in Standard mode and 778 nits in Filmmaker Mode. Those results put it above the LG B4’s 656 nits on the same test but below the likes of the Philips OLED809’s 927 nits and the Sony Bravia 8’s 817 nits.

When measuring the Z85A’s grayscale and color accuracy by taking an average of its Delta-E values (the margin for error between the test pattern and what’s shown on screen), it achieved phenomenal results of 1.1 and 1.2, respectively (we typically look for below 3).

After cycling through the Z85A’s picture presets, I landed on Filmmaker as its most accurate mode, though True Cinema mode was an excellent picture preset as well. Both provided incredible detail and contrast, but I opted for Filmmaker due to its higher brightness.

When watching both lower-resolution and high-definition (HD) TV shows, the Z85A did a solid job of upscaling them to 4K.

Moving onto 4K movies and TV shows, the Panasonic Z85A demonstrated spectacular color reproduction. Watching a scene where the ship arrived in Numenor in season 1 of Rings of Power on Prime Video (watched in Filmmaker Mode HDR), the blues and whites of the sea and rocky landscapes dazzled while maintaining a natural look, and the gold of armor and buildings glistened in the bright sunlight.

A Dolby Vision stream of Star Wars: The Last Jedi via Disney Plus also demonstrated the Z85A’s excellent color reproduction. The reds of the throne room fight scene looked bold and vibrant, but accurate, and lightsabers had a dynamic punch. They didn’t quite have the same glossy HDR sheen as on brighter OLEDs such as the Samsung S95D, but the Z85A’s colors were nonetheless glorious. I opted for the Dolby Vision Dark picture mode here as I felt it was more accurate, but those looking for more brightness can switch to Dolby Vision IQ mode.

When measuring the Panasonic Z85A’s HDR color gamut coverage in Filmmaker Mode, it yielded results of 98.2% for UHDA-P3 and 73.6% for BT.2020. Both of these are excellent results, and they slightly top the 97% and 72.5% achieved by the flagship Panasonic Z95A.

Black levels, shadow detail and contrast were also superb. Watching a 4K Blu-ray of The Batman in Dolby Vision Dark picture mode, light sources and lamps looked perfectly balanced with the gloomy surroundings in the opening crime scene. I did note occasional black crush in some scenes, with objects losing the odd detail, but overall The Batman looked incredibly accurate on the Z85A.

The Z85A had superb contrast in the black-and-white scenes in Oppenheimer, with an excellent balance between dark and light tones with a perfect range of grays in between.

One thing worth noting is that the Z85A fared better in dimmed or dark viewing conditions when watching darker movies since reflections could be seen on its screen in a bright room.

Panasonic’s OLEDs typically excel in showing details and textures, and the Z85A is no different. Whatever was on screen, the Z85A displayed it in a realistic manner that gave an incredible sense of depth to the image. Watching Top Gun: Maverick, close-ups of pilots revealed every facial feature – sweat, hair, pores. The natural landscapes in Rings of Power also had a 3D-like quality thanks to the intricate, fine details in the waves and mountains.

As you’d expect from OLED, the Z85A’s motion handling is very good overall. When watching a stream of a soccer game, I found that most picture modes worked well, though I stayed away from the Sports mode due to its oversaturated colors. The most effective was Normal mode with the IFC (Intelligent Frame Creation) in picture settings set to Min (with Mid, Max and Off being the other levels). With these active, long, panning shots up and down the pitch were generally handled very well with only incredibly minor stutter from time to time.

Motion handling with movies was excellent throughout, even with motion settings turned off. WatchingTop Gun: Maverick, swooping camera shots during training missions and Maverick’s bike rides through the desert were displayed with no visible judder.

• Picture quality score: 4.5/5

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Sound quality

• Punchy bass
• Accurate sound placement
• Sound confined to screen

The Panasonic Z85A’s 2.1-channel, 50W speaker array is a significantly smaller system than the one found in the flagship Panasonic Z95A, which boasts a 5.1.2-channel speaker system totaling 160W. There is still support for Dolby Atmos and something that Panasonic calls Theater Surround Pro, but more advanced sound features such as the Z95A’s Space Tune are not featured in the Z85A.

One thing I found interesting is that there is no preset intended for movies among the Z85A’s sound modes. Instead, I opted for the Stadium preset which promised the biggest sound.

The Z85A’s dynamic bass made the rumble of the Batmobile’s engine in the car chase scene in The Batman come through with plenty of power and punch, and plenty of control as well. Dialogue was consistently clear and well-presented and sound placement was accurate, with the sounds of swerving cars and tire screeches in The Batman and soaring jets in Top Gun: Maverick directly connected to the action on screen. I did find the Samsung QN90D and Samsung S95D’s sound presentation to be more accurate when I tested those TVs, however

The Z85A’s sound demonstrated a good balance when watching La La Land, reproducing the bright, jazzy score and the more delicate piano-led moments with the same level of detail. Due to its more limited speaker array, Dolby Atmos soundtracks weren’t given the same level of accuracy or space as on the step-up Panasonic Z95A. Pounding rain in The Batman was rarely audible throughout my viewing, and while the sound did extend beyond the screen on occasion, it still seemed somewhat contained.

• Sound quality score: 4/5

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Design

• Solid, yet lightweight build
• Stand feels a little cheap
• Dated remote

The Panasonic Z85A’s design is solid and dependable, if not a little safe in places. While the top of its frame is trim enough, the bottom part is on the bulkier side to accommodate the larger built-in subwoofer. Its screen lacks the bezel-less design of other premium OLEDs but is still suitably trim. It feels sturdy when installed with its stand but is also very light for easy movement.

Speaking of the stand, the Z85A’s is a mixed bag. While it has a sleek look that blends well with dark furniture and is well-made, the plastic and metal materials don’t feel as premium as on rival OLEDs, its predecessor the Panasonic MZ1500, which comes with a weighty, swiveling, all-metal stand, included.

The Z85A’s supplied remote continues what has become a somewhat sore subject for me with Panasonic TVs. It is long, bulky, covered in a load of buttons, and feels outdated. While better than the standard Fire TV remote provided with the flagship Panasonic Z95A, it still doesn’t look or feel like the premium remote you expect for an OLED TV like this – especially when compared to the USB-C rechargeable, light-up, metal remote that Philips stocks with its TVs like the Philips OLED809.

• Design score: 4/5

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Smart TV & menus

• Fire TV smart TV platform
• Intuitive and responsive navigation
• A good number of picture settings for calibration

Panasonic has opted to switch from its own my Home Screen smart TV platform in favor of Amazon’s Fire TV in the majority of its TVs this year and while the number of settings for picture and sound have taken a hit, the experience overall is an improvement.

Signing in with an Amazon account means the home page provides not only recommendations for movies and TV shows but an easy way to jump back into viewing, with the ability to sign in with and switch between multiple profiles for a more customized home screen. Unsurprisingly, these recommendations are almost entirely centered on Amazon’s Prime Video platform. Thanks to the Z85A’s faster processor, navigation of different menus and apps is smoother than my experience with the Amazon Omni QLED TV and also easy and intuitive.

The Panasonic Z85A comes with other Amazon features such as Alexa voice control and the Ambient Experience (a similar concept to Samsung’s Ambient mode on its TVs) which lets you display static and dynamic images and videos on the screen when the TV enters idle mode, rather than turning off. You can add your personal photos after uploading them via the Amazon Photos app on your phone, and widgets for weather, news, sports and more can be added to the Ambient screen as well.

Despite not having as many picture or sound settings as the previous my Home Screen interface, there are still a good number of settings for those looking to tweak their TV’s picture.

• Smart TV & menus score: 4/5

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Gaming

• 12.7ms input lag time
• Extreme Game Mode featuring Game Control Board
• Only two HDMI 2.1 ports

The Panasonic Z85A has only two HDMI 2.1 ports but is otherwise a well-equipped TV for gaming, supporting 4K 120Hz, Dolby Vision gaming, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia GSync) and ALLM.

Similar to other Panasonic TVs, the Z85A has the Game Control Board, where settings such as Shadow Enhancer allow for easy customization while playing. For non-Dolby Vision games, there are also two game picture modes, Game and True Game, with True Game serving as the Filmmaker or Movie picture mode equivalent by opting for a warmer color palette and more accurate textures that will better suit certain games.

Gaming on the Z85A is responsive and smooth, with fast-paced gameplay well handled. When playing Battlefield V at 4K 120Hz, targeting, movement and animations were all fluid and seamless. It doesn’t beat the best 120Hz TVs such as the LG C4, but the Z85A’s 12.7ms input lag time is still very good and below the 15ms threshold most gamers look for.

Graphically, the Z85A carries across the same picture quality it brings to movies, with plenty of vibrant color, rich contrast, realistic textures and fine details that give games an extra sense of realism.

• Gaming score: 4.5/5

Panasonic Z85A OLED TV review: Value

• Prices have dropped since launch
• Still slightly pricier than rival mid-range OLEDs
• Very good picture for price range

Since launching at $1,599 / £1,599 for the 55-inch model and $1,799 / £1,999 for the 65-inch model, the Panasonic Z85A’s prices have dropped to $1,499 / £1,299 for the 55-inch model and $1,699 / £1,699 for the 65-inch model. That’s still pricier than other mid-range OLEDs such as the LG C4 ($1,199 / £1,199 for 55-inch and $1,499 / £1,599 for 65-inch) but generally fair value for the picture quality and performance you’re getting.

Although a brightness boost similar to the mid-range LG C4 would have been nice, the Panasonic Z85A is still an excellent OLED that delivers in key areas. It still may exceed some budgets, but its picture quality and gaming features alone make it a worthy mid-range OLED contender.

• Value score: 4/5

Should I buy the Panasonic Z85A OLED TV?

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How I tested the Panasonic Z85A OLED TV

• Tested in varying lighting conditions
• Tested using both SDR and HDR sources
• Measurements were taken using Portrait Displays' Calman calibration software

Before testing, I did some casual viewing with the Panasonic Z85A to establish the most accurate picture mode and after scrolling through presets, I decided on Filmmaker Mode as the most accurate, with True Cinema mode a close second.

After this, I began my critical testing using SDR sources, such as broadcast TV and standard Blu-ray and HD movies, and HDR sources, such as 4K streaming and 4K Blu-rays. 4K Blu-rays were played using the Panasonic DP-UB820 4K Blu-ray player.

For critical testing, I used reference scenes from movies and TV shows. I tested picture quality, focusing on color, contrast, black levels, motion, detail, and upscaling, as well as the audio quality of the built-in speakers.

I also tested the Panasonic Z85A's gaming features and performance using an Xbox Series X.

After subjective testing, I moved onto objective testing, taking measurements using specialized equipment. This consisted of a test pattern generator, a colorimeter and Portrait Display's Calman calibration software to record the measurements.

The measurements taken included HDR and SDR brightness, measured on white window patterns ranging from 1-100% in size, with a focus on 10% for peak brightness and 100% for full-screen brightness.

I took measurements for HDR color gamut, analyzing the BT.2020 and UHDA-P3 color spaces. I also took measurements for color accuracy and grayscale in HDR, taking an average of each's Delta-E values (the margin for error between the test pattern and what's shown on screen).

Finally, I measured the Z85A's input lag using a Leo Bodnar 4K HDMI Input Lag Tester.

The Panasonic SC-HTB100 is a no-nonsense, easy-to-use budget soundbar that offers a solid upgrade on typical TV audio. It’s a full-sized standalone soundbar available for as little as £79 (about $100 / AU$160) – placing it firmly in the super-cheap category. As a result, you can’t expect mind-blowing spatial audio or game-changing features – but you sure can hope for clean audio that elevates your viewing experiences. And luckily, you get just that.

Reader, I want to get straight to the main event and talk audio quality. What you get from the Panasonic SC-HTB100 is quite impressive, with the standout positive here being vocal clarity.

When tuning into The Boys on Amazon Prime, I found that vocals were often more clear-cut in the overall mix, rarely getting unpleasantly muddied with sounds in a similar frequency range. For instance, in one indoor scene, one of the lead characters, Annie, converses with an older male and I sensed that both voices were more forward, occupying a more defined pocket than my TV could provide on its own. In a hospital room, the acoustics of the room were pretty true-to-life when using the Panasonic SC-HTB100, especially the sound of speech echoing throughout the space. Higher-pitched voices also lost a touch of tinniness that I heard from TV audio, making for a more comfortable listening experience.

In terms of placement, you can’t expect the kind of pinpoint accuracy that some of the best soundbars offer, but the Panasonic SC-HTB100 performs decently anyway. For example, I threw on Top Gun: Maverick and during the intro – where Tom Cruise rides a Kawasaki motorcycle – there was a bit more width to the soundstage and there was a stronger replication of the bike’s movement with the Panasonic soundbar.

Don’t expect truly three-dimensional sound from the Panasonic SC-HTB100, though. There’s no Dolby Atmos or DTS:X and it’s a 2.0 channel bar, meaning there’s no subwoofer or rear speakers. I would argue, however, that at this price point that is more than acceptable. In fact, budget options that attempt to sell Atmos often fall flat on the delivery side – the Majority Elias is just one example of an ultra-cheap soundbar that, despite offering Dolby Atmos, produced a limited impression of spatial audio and disappointing overall sound quality.

My main complaint with audio here, though, is in the bass department. I totally understand that without a dedicated subwoofer, you can’t expect particularly impressive low-end power – especially coupled with an unexceptional total power output of 45W. However, bass is genuinely pretty thin and doesn’t feel like a massive upgrade on standalone TV audio. To Panasonic’s credit, it never claims to offer big, booming low-frequency sound, instead stating that the soundbar uses a bass reflex port to “subtly emphasize the deeper tones in movie soundtracks” – and ‘subtly’ is definitely the keyword.

Despite that, sound quality is still pretty good overall. And that goes for all three EQ modes – Movie, News and Music. I used Movie when tuning into The Boys and Top Gun: Maverick – but also with a whole bunch more. For instance, I tried watching Suzume on Netflix and higher-pitched female voices sounded pleasingly clear, even when music was playing alongside them in the background – music which didn’t sound at all tinny or distorted. Not bad for a budget soundbar. There’s not a lot to say about News mode, although I did check out Sky News and found reporters' voices were well placed, rarely getting lumped in with feedback from outdoor surroundings or more subtle sounds in the studio environment.

But maybe the sound mode I was least excited to test is Music. That’s because a significant portion of budget bars fall well short on audio quality when handling tracks that demand delicate weighting, replication of neat sonic details and strong performance across all frequencies. And sure, the Panasonic SC-HTB100 isn’t able to perform to a stunning standard, but it actually handled music with decent levels of clarity. I listened to As if Waltz by Geordie Greep and the wailing guitars sounded pretty authentic and clear. And although layered instruments weren’t elegantly separated or perfectly true to their intended sound, audio wasn’t too tinny, making for an adequate listening experience. You can, however, expect some distortion at higher volumes and you’ll get more joy from the best Bluetooth speakers if you want some leisurely wireless listening.

When listening to music, I was able to connect to the soundbar using Bluetooth 5.0 – a handy inclusion if you want a swift wireless music-playing solution. And there’s actually a good set of connectivity options here, including digital optical, USB, AUX and HDMI ARC. I predominantly used the latter and it worked well, allowing me to use my normal TV remote to adjust volume levels.

And this was something I was pretty thankful for, because the included remote isn’t the best. I have no qualms with it looks- or design-wise, but the buttons aren't always ultra-responsive. When I tried to crank volume up, there was sometimes a noticeable level of delay – which was a tad frustrating.

But that isn’t my only issue with the Panasonic SC-HTB100’s design. I was pretty unimpressed with the display on the front of the soundbar. Rather than getting a full LED display to let you know which sound mode you’re using or the volume level, you’re instead met with a small LED light. This changes color depending on which sound mode you’re using, but you won’t know which is which unless you consult the oracle (included user guide).

Another problem is the glossy, slightly plasticky outer casing. Reflections from the TV screen can appear on top of this material – quite a distracting issue when you’re focused on watching shows or playing video games. Otherwise, the soundbar is solid in terms of appearance. Again, it is a little plasticky, but it’s plenty slim enough, which made it easy to slide into my setup.

So, overall this is a solid soundbar that will given you an audible, albeit non show-stopping improvement over TV audio. If you’ve acquired one of the best small TVs for instance – which often lack firepower and quality in the audio department – this could be a great pick.

Panasonic SC-HTB100 review: Price and release date

• £79 (about $100 / AU$160)
• Launched in 2021

The Panasonic SC-HTB100 was released in the UK in 2021, although it’s not sold in the US or Australian markets. But even though it’s not the newest, don’t let that put you off – it still has a decent amount to offer, especially if you want clearer vocals and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s available for £79, which puts it firmly in the budget category, even for a standalone 2.0 channel soundbar. Considering this is a full-size soundbar, as opposed to a mini one, this is a very good value product, especially if you want a low-cost, easy-to-use upgrade on TV audio.

Panasonic SC-HTB100 review: Specs

Should I buy the Panasonic SC-HTB100?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Panasonic SC-HTB100: Also consider

Panasonic SC-HTB100 review: How I tested

• Tested for two weeks
• Connected to my Hisense U7K TV at home
• Predominantly used the HDMI ARC connectivity option

I tested the Panasonic SC-HTB100 at home over the course of two weeks. I mainly used HDMI ARC when connecting the soundbar to my Hisense U7K TV.

For testing, I watched a variety of TV shows, videos and movies – mainly using streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and YouTube. I also played Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth on the Playstation 5 while using the soundbar to assess gaming performance. On top of that, I connected the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE to the Panasonic SC-HTB100 over Bluetooth and played music from the TechRadar testing playlist to judge the quality of Music mode.

• First reviewed: November 2024
• Read more about how we test

Looking to up your video content creation game but don't want to spend big? The Panasonic S9 is a great choice thanks to a price cut at Adorama and other leading retailers.

The S9 is going for $1,397.99 (was $1,497) at Adorama today, which is a new record-low for this video-centric full-frame body. For this price, it's hard to argue that the S9 is a compelling choice with its 6K open gate video, in-built LUTs, and class-leading image stabilization. Combined, these features make it one of the best cameras for YouTube if you're dead-set on getting your hands on a full-frame sensor in a tiny compact form factor.

As previously stated, this deal is available at Adorama, B&H Photo, and Amazon so there's plenty of choice in regard to retailers. There is an outside chance that this particular body could drop even lower over Black Friday but I wouldn't expect anything too dramatic considering this is a 2024 model.

Panasonic Lumix S9 at a new record-low price

• See more: check out all of today's camera deals at Adorama

A divisive camera but great value

Our Panasonic Lumix S9 review wasn't entirely positive when this camera came out, mostly because Panasonic has undoubtedly had to make some compromises to fit such superb specs into a small full-frame body at this price. The S9, for example, doesn't feature a viewfinder or hot shoe, which massively limits its potential as a camera for photography. It's teeny-tiny body is also a difficult pairing with some of the L-Mounts larger lenses without adding an additional grip.

With that said, the S9 is a camera that's certainly getting better with age. For example, recent firmware upgrades include an increased cap limit on video recording, more subject detection autofocus modes, and remote shooting via the Lumix Lab app. Panasonic has also recently released a new compact Lumix S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 zoom lens, which is tailor-made to pair with the S9's incredibly svelte body.

Panasonic Z95A: Two-minute review

The Panasonic Z95A is the company’s flagship OLED TV, sitting above the company’s mid-range Z90A and entry-level Z85A in the company’s 2024 OLED lineup. There are two big changes for Panasonic TVs this year. The first is that the company has switched from its own My Home Screen smart TV interface to Amazon Fire TV. The second is that Panasonic has re-entered the US TV market, though the selection of models and screen sizes is more limited in the US than in the UK and Europe.

The Panasonic Z95A arrives stateside exclusively in a 65-inch screen size, though a 55-inch model is also available in the UK. Pricing is set at $3,100 / £3,899, putting the Z95A very much in the premium TV camp, but if you have the cash, its performance and features rank it among the best OLED TVs.

The Z95A’s 'Master OLED Ultimate' display panel uses the same micro lens array (MLA) tech found in the flagship LG G4 OLED TV and features a new HCX Pro AI Processor MK II to enhance HDR tone mapping, color accuracy, detail, and motion handling. Images on the Z95A are bright, with strong contrast and rich color – it looks every part the premium TV.

Sound is also a standout Z95A feature. It has a 5.1.2-channel 160W speaker system with front and side-firing speakers, along with up-firing ones to deliver Dolby Atmos height effects. The Z95A’s sound is powerful and immersive enough that you could easily get away without using one of the best soundbars, and there’s also a clever and effective Sound Focus mode to ensure people sitting off-center still get great sound. It's probably the best TV for sound if money is no object. Packing in so many speakers adds to the TV’s bulk, but its design is otherwise appealing and it sits on a sturdy circular stand that can swivel in either direction.

The Z95A’s Fire TV interface isn’t the best smart TV platform, because it’s edged out by more sophisticated systems like LG’s webOS and more streamlined ones like Roku, but it gets the job done for streaming and features a new Ambient Experience that displays a wide range of pre-installed images when the TV is in sleep mode and also lets you upload your own images as well as create new ones using AI. There are plentiful settings to dial in the TV’s picture and sound – perhaps too many depending on your level of patience for tweaking.

Gaming is well represented on the Z95A, which has two HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 144Hz, VRR (including Nvidia G-Sync and AMD Freesync Premium), and Dolby Vision Gaming (up to 144Hz). A Game Control Board menu overlay lets you make quick gaming-related settings, and it can be assigned to the remote control’s My App button for easy pop-up access.

The Panasonic Z95A earns its high price compared to even the best TVs, and if you want a single unit that delivers elite sound as well as pictures, it's hard to beat. But the magnificent Samsung S95D is available for a lot less, so you need to want its particular mix of sound and visuals.

Panasonic Z95A review: Price and release date

• Release date: 4 September 2024 
• 65-inch: $3,100 / £3,899
• 55-inch: NA / £2,999

Panasonic’s Z95A is the company’s flagship OLED TV for 2024. It is available in 55- and 65-inch screen sizes in the UK and 65 inches in the US. Panasonic TVs are not sold in Australia.

The Z95A series sits above the company’s Z85A series, which is available in 55- and 65-inch screen sizes in both the US and the UK, with the 65-inch model priced at $1,799 / £2,499. 

As a flagship OLED TV sold in both the US and the UK, the Z95A’s key competitors are the Samsung S95D ($3,399 / £3,399) and LG G4  ($3,399 / £3,299) – however, both those TVs are available for much less than their asking price now. You can find them both for around $2,600 / £2,600, so they offer a big saving compared to the Z95A.

Panasonic Z95A review: Specs

Panasonic Z95A review: Benchmark results

Panasonic Z95A review: Features

• MLA OLED panel and HCX Pro AI Processor MK II
• Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ adaptive HDR
• Two HDMI 2.1 inputs with 4K 144Hz support

The Panasonic Z95A features a 'Master OLED Ultimate' display panel equipped with the same brightness boosting micro lens array (MLA) tech used in LG’s G4 OLED TV, along with a heat-management configuration developed in-house by Panasonic engineers. It also has Panasonic’s new HCX Pro AI Processor MK II, which uses dynamic 3D LUTs (Look-Up Tables) to display accurate colors in bright and dark images and a 4K Fine Remaster and Smooth Motion Drive Pro feature to enhance detail and motion clarity.

The Z95A has comprehensive HDR support, with Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ Adaptive, and HLG all accounted for. In the US, this is the only OLED TV range to offer both advanced HDR formats (in the UK, Philips does as well). A Filmmaker Mode with intelligent sensing optimizes that picture mode for a range of room lighting conditions using the TV’s built-in sensors, and there’s also a Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode that’s meant to accurate display programs streamed from Netflix.

Sound quality is given special attention on the Z95A, which features '360 Soundscape Pro tuned by Technics.' This basically is a built-in 5.1.2-channel 160W speaker system with a dedicated center speaker and up-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos height effects. There are extensive settings for tuning the Z95A’s sound, and it has a beam-forming feature that lets you direct the TV’s sound output with Pinpoint, Area, Spot, and Ambient modes.

For its new TVs, the Z95A included, Panasonic has swapped its unloved My Home Screen smart TV platform for Amazon’s Fire TV. This uses a Voice Remote with Alexa for control, and it now features the Fire TV Ambient Experience, which lets you add various information widgets to the TV’s ambient mode screensaver, and even create your own custom images using generative AI.

Gaming is also a highlight of the Z95A, which supports 4K 144Hz, VRR (including Nvidia G-Sync and AMD Freesync Premium), and Dolby Vision Gaming (up to 144Hz) and also has a Game Control Board pop-up menu for making quick gaming-related settings. The Z95A only has two HDMI 2.1 inputs, however, which is less than the four HDMI 2.1 ports we look for on the best gaming TVs.

• Features Score: 4.5/5

Panasonic Z95A review: Picture quality

• High brightness for an OLED TV
• Excellent overall picture quality
• Anti-reflection screen

With an OLED MLA panel similar to the one used in the LG G4 OLED TV, I expected the Panasonic Z95A to have similarly high brightness and my measurements proved that. Brightness on a 10% HDR white window pattern in Filmmaker Mode was 1,495 nits and a full-screen pattern measured 221.8 nits. Those numbers match what we measured on the G4, though they fall a bit short of the Samsung S95D’s 1,688 nits and 318 nits in the same picture mode.

In other measurements, the Z95A’s UHDA-P3 color gamut coverage in Filmmaker Mode was 97.0 and its BT.2022 coverage was 72.5%. Again, those results match what we measured on the LG G4, though the Samsung S95D with its QD-OLED display panel managed full P3 coverage and an impressive 87.9% BT.2020 coverage. Grayscale and color accuracy  (see “How I tested” section for details) in the same mode were 3.3 and 1.7, respectively – again matching the G4’s performance.

The Z95A did a good job upconverting standard-definition broadcast TV channels, and high-definition ones looked super-clean and finely detailed. The TV’s anti-reflection screen also effectively reduced glare from overhead lights in my room when I had them switched on. With sports such as football, the Z95A displayed punchy colors and crisp-looking highlights, though I preferred the TV’s Normal picture preset here rather than Filmmaker Mode, which looked comparatively muted with non-HDR content including broadcast TV.

One note about Filmmaker Mode on the Z95A: The intelligent sensing feature it uses automatically turns on the TV’s ambient light sensor for adjusting picture brightness based on room lighting. For this reason, I preferred to use the True Cinema preset when available, which has similar settings to Filmmaker Mode minus the intelligent sensing.

Another picture mode worth discussing is Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode, which needs to be enabled in the TV’s picture setup menu. When streaming Ripley from Netflix, I strongly preferred the TV’s Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode to its Dolby Vision Dark mode, which compressed highlight and shadow detail to a degree. Otherwise, I used Dolby Vision Dark for viewing most programs with Dolby Vision HDR, making tweaks to the Black Level and Black Expansion adjustments in the Brightness menu to optimize pictures.

The Z95A’s bold, detailed color reproduction is beautiful for movies such as I Saw the TV Glow, which regularly uses a neon-like color palette in dark, nighttime scenes. Watching one such scene where smoke billows out from an ice cream truck, the bright green of the truck and the lurid purple smoke looked vivid and intense.

Motion handling is also impressive on Panasonic’s top OLED TV. When I watched a scene from No Time to Die where James Bond traverses a rocky hilltop cemetery, there was only a faint level of judder visible as the camera tracked his motion, and details in the landscape remained intact. And the same thing held for sports, with a Bills vs Ravens football game looking completely solid and blur-free.

As you’d expect from a flagship OLED TV, blacks looked deep and there was a high level of shadow detail visible in dark images from shows like The Penguin on Max. As mentioned above, I found myself regularly making adjustments to the TV’s advanced brightness settings to dial this in just right, but even without making black-level tweaks, shadows generally were well-defined. 

• Picture quality score: 5/5

Panasonic Z95A review: Sound quality

• 5.1.2-channel 160W speaker system
• Effective Dolby Atmos presentation 
• Sound Focus mode

Panasonic calls the Z95A’s built-in speaker system '360 Soundscape Pro tuned by Technics.' This is a 5.1.2-channel 160W array that uses dedicated left, center, right and side-firing speakers, along with a pair of up-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos height effects and a built-in subwoofer plus two passive bass radiators. A subwoofer output jack is also provided on the TV if you want make a hard-wired connection to an external sub.

Packing that many speakers into the TV’s frame adds to its depth and height, with a thick grille running beneath the full width of the screen where the front speaker array is located. And while it increases the TV’s bulk, the benefit to the Z95A’s audio hardware is that it can play loud and clear enough that you can easily do without a soundbar. 

Dialogue is consistently clear, and Atmos soundtracks have a true sense of spaciousness, with sound effects such as rain falling in a scene from I Saw the TV Glow literally sounding like they were falling from the ceiling. Bass depth and impact is very good for a TV, and it noticeably improved after running Space Tune, a feature that uses the mic built into the remote control to analyze your room’s acoustics and adjust the sound accordingly.

Along with Space Tune, another key audio feature is Sound Focus, which lets you adjust the direction of the sound for off-center seating. There are four settings, Pinpoint, Area, Spot and Ambient, which each one providing a different range of soundfield width. To test it out, I selected Pinpoint and adjusted it to align with a seating position at the far end of my sofa, and the TV’s sound clearly shifted 30 degrees over from the center. Impressive!

• Sound quality score: 5/5

Panasonic Z95A review: Design

• Sturdy, swiveling stand
• Wide array of input and control ports
• Flimsy remote control

OLED TVs typically have a thin form factor, but at 2.7 inches (69mm),  the Z95A’s frame is necessarily deep owing to its built-in 5.1.2-channel speaker array, and there is a wide grille running along the bottom of the screen where the TV’s front-firing speakers are located. It’s balanced on a sturdy, swiveling stand, which is a great feature if you want to position the TV’s screen to accommodate different seating situations.

The Z95A has an impressive array of input and control ports. There are four HDMI ports (including two HDMI 2.1), optical digital and 3.5mm headphone/subwoofer audio outputs, two powered USB, and an antenna input for the TV’s ATSC 3.0 digital TV tuner (US-only). On the control side, it has an Ethernet port and IR blaster output.

Panasonic’s remote control is disappointing given the Z95A’s otherwise premium build quality (and price!). It’s the same type you’d get with any cheap Amazon Fire TV set, with a thin plastic case, limited button array, and no backlighting. Its main feature is a blue button at the top to summon Alexa for voice commands, which, to be fair, is a key feature of the Fire TV smart TV platform.

• Design score: 4/5

Panasonic Z95A review: Smart TV and menus

• Amazon Fire TV is great for streaming service support
• Fire TV Ambient Experience with AI image generation
• Extensive picture and sound adjustments

Amazon’s Fire TV smart TV interface hasn’t changed much since we reviewed the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED. The home screen is divided up into a top panel with ads, mostly for shows on Amazon’s Prime Video and Freevee free TV platforms and other streaming services, while a grid of recommended movies and TV shows takes up the bottom half. In between is a horizontal bar with a row of apps that you can customize, along with Inputs, My Stuff, Search, and Live tabs.

When on the Live screen, you’ll find a wealth of options, including news channels and other live TV programs that are free to stream. You can also select a grid format that displays a cable TV-style time-based guide that can be populated with programs available on local broadcast TV channels when using an antenna.

The Fire TV Ambient Experience is a recent addition, and it’s one of the platform’s most appealing features. When the TV hasn’t been in use for a certain period of time (you can specify how long in the setup menu) it will display a curated range of images and artworks, or your personal photos (via the Fire TV Photos app after uploading using the Amazon Photos app on your phone). You can add weather, news, sticky notes, and other widgets to the Ambient screen, and even create your own images using AI. Be careful with this, however: I prompted Amazon’s AI with “clowns juggling pineapples on a soccer field,” and the terrifying image it generated cannot be unseen.

One area where Fire TV on the Panasonic goes well beyond Amazon’s own TVs is the picture and sound settings, which can be accessed by pressing a gear icon button on the remote control. There are extensive picture presets, including numerous ones to adjust HDR tone mapping and black detail in dark images. The same goes for sound settings, which include a range of Sound Field Creation options, Space Tune room EQ, and the Sound Focus mode described above in the Sound Quality section. If anything, there may be too many options provided for tweaking the TV’s picture and sound.

• Smart TV & menus score: 4/5

Panasonic Z95A review: Gaming

• Two HDMI 2.1 ports
• Game Control Board menu
• 12.6ms input lag