The best OLED TVs are dazzlingly bright with a crystal-clear image, and that's because of their self-lighting pixels. OLED technology keeps getting better, too, meaning today's models are brighter, more vivid, and boast sharp contrast between light and dark areas of the screen.
The LG C6 is the best OLED TV overall in our opinion. It's held the #1 spot for a while – and for good reason. You're getting super picture quality, strong built-in audio, and a whole host of gaming features for a price that'll suit most budgets. If you're looking for something even more affordable, the LG B6 is a great alternative, though we found it wasn't as bright as the C6.
Throughout TechRadar's 16 years of experience testing and reviewing the biggest TV brands, we know what makes a good OLED. In addition to specialized tools, we use real-world tests to evaluate how a TV will perform in your home, so you can rest assured our recommendations (for different budgets and use cases) are based on more than just a spec sheet.
So, whether you're a cinephile looking for the ultimate home theatre experience, a gamer who needs cutting-edge features, or a sports fan following your team through the season's ups and downs, our guide will help you find the best OLED option for your setup.
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Why you can trust TechRadar's choices
We've tested all the TVs on this list ourselves, balancing objective testing of brightness and color accuracy (measured with high-end, industry-standard equipment) with the more subjective elements of picture and sound quality – because you can't judge how an image looks to the eye based on scientific measurements alone.
We don't base our rankings solely on picture quality; we also factor in their features and overall value for money. After all, your must-haves might be different from the next person's.
October 20, 2026
Replaced the LG C5 with the LG C6 as 'Best overall. Replaced the LG B5 with the LG B6 as 'Best cheap OLED'. Replaced the LG G5 with the LG G6 as 'Best Premium OLED'.
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If you're on the hunt for an OLED TV that you can personalize down to the last detail, well, Loewe's newest 4K Smart OLED might be just what you're looking for.
Called the Antares (and currently exclusive to the UK), it features a modular design that can be tailored to suit your individual setup. Think different colorways and stands, options for enhancing the speaker system, and more. Loewe claims that it's the "most individual Smart OLED TV to date", and we're looking forward to playing with it in our testing lab.
Today's best OLED TVs, as chosen by our reviewers
The best OLED TV for most people
1-minute summary: The LG C6's predecessor, the LG C5, topped our ranking as the best OLED TV for a long time – but the C6 has finally toppled it. Our in-house testing found that the C6 does everything the C5 does... and then some. It's thanks to the Alpha 11 AI Gen 3 image processor (that you'll also find in the LG G6) that delivers a significant brightness boost and better overall picture quality. Colors pop, too, without straying into 'unnatural' territory, and they look more accurate than the C5 based on our side-by-side testing. The C6 is available in sizes ranging from 42 to 65 inches, and suits everything from home cinema to offices and gaming setups. On that note, gamers will appreciate the 4K 165Hz, variable refresh rate (HDMI spec, FreeSync, and G-Sync), auto low-latency mode, and Dolby Vision Gaming across all four HDMI 2.1 ports. We also like the LG webOS 26 smart TV platform, which is easy to use and features AI-powered tools that enhance search and voice recognition. Whether you're considering the LG C6 for movies, sports, gaming, or everyday viewing, it's an awesome all-rounder with performance and value that won't let you down.
Read our full LG C6 review
Reasons to buy
✅ You want the best image quality: The C6 produces vivid, accurate colors and contrast, excellent motion handling, and plenty of detail.
✅ You're looking for a gaming TV: There's plenty here for gamers, too, with a full suite of features across four HDMI 2.1 ports.
✅ You need a truly 'smart' smart TV platform: LG's webOS platform is easy to use and intuitive, with menus that've been further streamlined.
Reasons to avoid
❌ You want to avoid on-screen reflections: The C6's glossy screen makes it prone to disruptive mirror-like reflections, particularly in bright rooms.
❌ You need HDR10+ support: While the C6 does support Dolby Vision, there's no support for HDR10+, which is becoming popular across gaming and streaming.
❌ You want the best built-in sound: Like most modern TVs, the C6's built-in audio is decent, but doesn't live up to the awesome picture quality.
In-depth analysis
We measured the LG C6's peak HDR brightness at 1,438 nits in Filmmaker Mode, which is an impressive step up from the C5's 1,180 nits. The extra brightness makes on-screen colors dazzle, looking rich across Dolby Vision content, and more accurate than the C5 based on our testing. Contrast is also excellent, and the C6 delivers deep blacks, punchy highlights, and detailed mid-tones. Sports fans will be glad to hear that motion handling is smooth and reliable. We preferred Standard mode with the Natural motion setting enabled for sports (we tested soccer and baseball), which eliminated judder. The only downside to note is that the C6's glossy screen does make the TV prone to mirror-like on-screen reflections when watching in bright rooms.
The LG C6 uses a built-in 2.2-channel speaker array. There's support for Dolby Atmos but, as was the case with the LG C5, none for DTS. LG removed some traditional sound modes, like Cinema and Sports, and replaced them with AI Sound Pro and Precision Sound Master Pro features. Using the former, we found that it focuses on mid-range tones, creating a more solid bass level than its C5 predecessor. On-screen mapping was excellent, too, with a strong link between on-screen action and sound. When we put the Precision Sound Master Pro setting to the test, we liked that the soundstage felt wider and louder, but felt that it was ultimately too bright for our tastes. Overall, the C6's audio is solid, though we'd still connect one of today's best soundbars to really enhance the cinematic experience.
LG's webOS smart TV platform continues to be one of our favorites – and that's thanks to its overall ease of use. There are no new significant upgrades to the webOS 26 edition, other than more generative AI features, but we do appreciate that menu navigation has been streamlined. Important settings, like Network and Energy Saving, have been shifted higher up the menu for easier access. The LG C6's new processor also means that in-menu performance is smoother than ever, and Quick Cards make a comeback as a handy way to organize apps by category (and even more categories have been added). We found the ads at the top of the home page and on the screensaver irksome, as usual, but the same can generally be said for other smart TVs.
The LG C6 is an outstanding gaming TV. All of the must-haves are there, including 4K 165Hz in the C-series for the first time, variable refresh rate (HDMI spec, FreeSync, and G-Sync), auto low-latency mode, and Dolby Vision Gaming across all four HDMI 2.1 ports. When we activated Boost mode in the Game Optimizer menu, we recorded input lag of 4.6ms, which is an astonishing result that'll delight gamers. Pair these results with the C6's fantastic picture quality, and it's hard to deny that the C6 is one of the best gaming TVs available today. During our testing, we found that Battlefield V ran smoothly, with excellent responsiveness while aiming, dashing, and driving during desert missions.
The LG C6 is a fantastic, feature-packed OLED TV that delivers premium performance at a mid-range price, making it a tempting option for movie watchers and gamers. At launch, the 65-inch model cost $2,699 / £2,599, making it £100 cheaper than the C5's launch price in the UK. If you're looking for a real bargain, the LG C5 remains a cost-effective, impressive option, but we expect C6 prices to drop, especially as we head into the 2026 Black Friday and Cyber Monday season.
The best budget OLED TV
1-minute summary: The LG B6 is another affordable, entry-level OLED TV in LG's B-series – and it's even brighter than its LG B5 predecessor. That being said, we didn't think that the B6 delivered the upgrade we were hoping for. The biggest change is the B6's overall brightness, which translates to impactful, vivid scenes with punchier colors across the board, and textures that are as crisp and detailed as you'd expect from an OLED. The B6 is available in a variety of sizes, from 48 to 83 inches, and is jam-packed with gaming features. 4K 120Hz is complemented by variable refresh rate, including both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, HGiG HDR, auto low latency mode, and Dolby Vision Gaming, and four HDMI 2.1 ports. While the LG's webOS 26 smart TV platform doesn't reinvent the wheel (or introduce a ton of new features), menus are easier to navigate, and AI-powered tools assist with searching and customization. The LG B6 is an overall fantastic choice that balances performance with value, making it the best budget option.
Read our full LG B6 review
Reasons to buy
✅ You want the best picture at a bargain price: The B6 balances a bright, vivid picture with a price that won't break the bank.
✅ You want an easy-to-use TV: Few smart TV platforms are as intuitive as LG's webOS, and the webOS 26 edition has been further streamlined to make navigation easier.
✅ You want an affordable gaming OLED: If you're a gamer with a budget, the B6 is an affordable pick with 4K 120Hz, full VRR, and a great picture.
Reasons to avoid
❌ You've got the budget for the LG C6: If your budget can stretch, the LG C6 is a better upgrade from its predecessor than the B6, with even better brightness.
❌ You want room-filling sound: The B6's native audio is good enough for day-to-day watching, but you'll need a soundbar to really enhance movies.
❌ You plan to watch in bright rooms: The B6 is brighter than the B5, but still struggles with on-screen reflections that are particularly notable in bright setups.
In-depth analysis
The LG B6's biggest and best upgrade over the LG B5 is its increased brightness. We measured peak HDR brightness of 835 nits in Filmmaker mode, which is a significant leap over the 668 nits we saw from the B5. Bright scenes are more impactful, and colors benefit, too, looking a little more vibrant in comparison. Contrast is equally solid and improved, with deep dark tones retaining plenty of detail in high-contrast scenes. The B6 is prone to on-screen reflections when viewed in bright rooms, however.
The B6's built-in 2.0 channel speaker system is decent and does the job for day-to-day viewing, but it's still one of the TV's weaker aspects. We found speech was accurate and movies contained plenty of detail, but bass was especially limited. The B6's overall soundstage is narrow, too, and comes up short compared to more premium OLED TVs. You'll need to pair the B6 with a soundbar if you're looking for a true home theatre experience.
The LG B6 uses LG's webOS 26 smart TV platform. It's similar to the webOS 25 iteration and hasn't introduced a long list of new features besides more generative AI tools – but we don't think it needed to reinvent the wheel. We like that webOS 26 has streamlined its menu navigation, making it easier to find and customize settings, and Quick Cards have more categories that you can sort apps into for a tidier, organized homepage. The banner ads on the home page are annoying, but unfortunately, the same applies to most of today's smart TV platforms.
For gamers on a budget, the B6 delivers great quality and value, making it one of 2026's best gaming TVs. With four HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K 120Hz, full variable refresh rate options, HGiG, auto low latency mode, and Dolby Vision Gaming, all of the bases are covered. We measured input lag of 8.9ms during our hands-on testing, too, which results in a razor-sharp response time in-game – even in fast-paced FPS titles like Battlefield V. If you're looking for an affordable OLED gaming monitor, the B6 should be top of your list.
The LG B6 is LG's entry-level OLED for 2026, sandwiched between the mid-range LG C6 and the flagship LG G6. Currently, a 65-inch B6 costs $1,999 / £2,399, which is the same pricing we saw at launch from last year's LG B5. In terms of sheer value, we'd still put the LG C6 ahead of the B6 – despite the fact that it's more expensive. The C6 was more of an upgrade over its predecessor than the B6, and if you can afford the step up, we think it's the better pick overall.
LG B6 test results
The best premium OLED TV
1-minute summary: The LG G6 elevates everything we loved about the LG G5, and delivers even better brightness and color accuracy; it's the best OLED TV for watching in bright rooms. Plus, with a new Alpha 11 AI Gen 3 processor, picture quality and performance are improved. The G6 is available in a range of sizes from 48 to 97 inches, and we were impressed by its reflection handling, which limited mirror-like glare and preserved rich black levels, making it one of the best OLED TVs for bright rooms. As for built-in sound, the G6 has a 4.2-channel speaker system, and the AI Sound Pro feature allows you to further optimize the soundstage. The G6 also continues the trend of LG TVs excelling for gamers, with 4K 165Hz, FreeSync and G-Sync variable refresh rate certification, HGiG HDR, Dolby Vision gaming, and four HDMI 2.1 ports. The webOS 26 smart TV platform is easy to use with a range of picture settings – and we appreciated that the menus have been streamlined. If you're on the hunt for a premium OLED that delivers premium picture quality, the LG G6 won't let you down.
Read our full LG G6 review
Reasons to buy
✅ You want a vibrant image: The G6 is dazzlingly bright, as you'd expect from a flagship TV, and produces accurate colors and rich contrast.
✅ You're a gamer, too: With four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 165Hz, and responsive 9.2ms input lag, the G6 is one of the best options available to gamers.
✅ You want an easy-to-use smart TV: LG's webOS 26 platform is intuitive and straightforward, with a newly streamlined menu system.
Reasons to avoid
❌ You've got a tight budget: The flagship G6 comes with a price to match, so bargain hunters will be better off with the mid-range LG C6.
❌ You don't want to use a soundbar: While the G6's built-in sound does the job for day-to-day viewing, you'll need a soundbar to bring the audio up to the same quality as the picture.
❌ You need HDR10+ or Dolby Vision 2 support: As an LG TV, the G6 lacks support for HDR10+, which is popular with Blu-rays and streaming sites.
In-depth analysis
During our tests, we measured the LG G6's peak HDR brightness at 2,475 nits – that's a 200-nit increase from the LG G5. The extra brightness adds to the G6's color reproduction, too, which delivers stunning visuals that remain natural. Contrast is just as impressive. When we tuned into high-contrast titles, like The Batman, the G6 produced precise contrast with rich dark tones and vivid highlights – without losing any detail in shadowy scenes. In fact, we were impressed with textures throughout our testing. Finally, we put the G6's motion handling under the microscope, and it delivered a smooth experience regardless of whether we were watching football, tennis, other sports, or shows, with not a single artifact.
The LG G6 uses a 4.2-channel speaker array. While there's support for Dolby Atmos, the same can't be said for DTS. We tested the AI Sound Pro mode, which upmixes sound to an 11.1.2-channel configuration with the aid of the Alpha 11 Gen 3 Processor, and ultimately preferred it to last year's iteration thanks to a bassier sound that focuses on mid-range tones. The G6's sound mapping is superb and precise, and chase scenes during Batman sounded authentic (with swerving tyres and car horns). All in all, the G6's built-in sound is good, often extending beyond the screen... though it's not quite room-filling. You'll need to add a soundbar to your setup for a truly surround-sound experience that'll heighten movies and more.
webOS 26 is the LG G6's smart TV platform, and it's our favorite platform of the bunch. The suite of AI tools makes a return, including AI Search and the AI Concierge (which can now use generative AI to help you with other tasks, like list-making and travel plans... should you need it). The Quick Menu is a handy feature that lets you change picture and sound presets on the fly, and Quick Cards allow you to organize apps into a wide variety of category cards on the home screen. We found webOS 26 nice and easy to navigate, too, and didn't get lost in any endless menus. Everything is laid out clearly. We'd prefer it if the homepage wasn't taken up by banner ads, but plenty of other smart TV platforms do the same.
LG TVs have fantastic gaming credentials, and the G6 is no different. Four HDMI 2.1 ports all support 4K, 165Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync), HGiG, and Dolby Vision gaming, plus it boasts an ultra-low 9.2 ms input lag time when Boost mode in the Game Optimizer menu is activated. Its Game Quick Card also has access to a wealth of cloud-based gaming portals such as Luna and Nvidia GeForce Now. When it comes to gaming TVs, it doesn't get better than the G6.
The LG G6 is a premium TV that commands a premium price tag, with the 65-inch model coming in at $3,399 / £2,999. That price is on par with the LG G5's launch pricing, which dropped over time – and we expect the same thing will happen with the G6. That being said, the G6's prices remain high-end, and you can save money by opting for the G5 while you wait for prices to drop. The 65-inch model costs $2,199 / £2,249, which is great value for a G-series.
LG G6 test results
The best OLED TV for sound
1-minute summary: Panasonic’s new flagship OLED, the Z95B, is a worthy successor to last year’s Z95A. It introduces a new Primary RGB Tandem panel that pushes brightness while delivering richer, more natural color detail. In our testing, it hit an impressive 2,107 nits. But Panasonic has made a commitment to accuracy over brightness. The result is that movies look refined, subtle, and true-to-life, rather than simply boosted. But the real story here is sound. The Z95B takes a big step forward with audio. Its 360 Soundscape Pro system, tuned by Technics, has been upgraded with new drivers and a refined speaker layout. The result is one of the best built-in sound systems you’ll find on any TV. It’s powerful, immersive, and clear enough that you can even comfortably skip buying a soundbar. That alone gives the Z95B excellent value compared to its OLED rivals.
Read our full Panasonic Z95B review
Reasons to buy
✅ You want the ultimate movie night TV: The Z95B’s sharp, colorful, and accurate picture makes Blu-rays and streaming films look incredible.
✅ You don’t want to clutter your living room with a soundbar: Its built-in 5.1.2-channel speaker system delivers big, immersive sound that’s good enough to stand on its own.
Reasons to avoid
❌ You prefer watching with the lights on: The picture is good in all scenarios, but it's at its best in dim rooms, and the anti-glare screen isn’t the strongest for bright, sunlit spaces.
❌ You dislike fiddling with settings: This TV has a long list of advanced picture and sound options, and while you can ignore them, some fine-tuning helps unlock its best performance.
In-depth analysis
Panasonic has introduced a new 'four-stack' OLED panel design in the Z95B, with separate red and green layers sandwiched between dual blue layers. This allows for a much brighter image than past models while keeping color richness intact. Our tests measured peak HDR brightness at 2,107 nits – impressive by OLED standards. But unlike rivals chasing sheer brightness, Panasonic’s focus here is accuracy. The Z95B delivers a natural, finely balanced image with subtle gradations and detail. Skin tones and textures look especially lifelike. There’s also an advanced cooling system to help the panel maintain peak brightness during demanding HDR scenes. In its most accurate presets (Filmmaker Mode, True Cinema, Cinema), it doesn’t reach the same dazzling brightness as some competitors. But what you gain is a consistent, refined picture.
The Z95B retains the 5.1.2-channel 360 Soundscape Pro speaker system from the Z95A, but Panasonic has improved the driver quality and tweaked the layout, too. The result is even better, spacious, powerful, and immersive sound. In fact, we’d call this one of the best built-in TV sound systems available today. Dialogue is clear, effects have impact, and there’s enough scale to rival mid-range soundbars. A handy “Sound Focus” feature ensures dialogue stays sharp even when you’re sitting off to the side. We rarely say this, but the Z95B is strong enough sonically that you could skip an external soundbar and still feel very satisfied. That makes it an exceptional value in the premium TV market.
The Z95B runs Amazon’s Fire TV platform. While it isn’t the slickest or most elegant interface in our opinion, it’s reliable, offers a wide range of apps, and integrates well with Alexa and Prime Video. Navigation is quick, and performance felt solid across apps and menus. It’s not our favorite smart platform compared to LG’s webOS or Samsung’s Tizen, but it covers the essentials well, and many will appreciate its familiarity. Gamers also benefit from Fire TV’s support for cloud gaming apps.
The Z95B is well-equipped for gaming. There’s support for 4K at 144Hz, Dolby Vision gaming, and VRR, including AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync. Input lag is low, and the picture retains the same accuracy advantages seen in movies. The main limitation is connectivity. With only two HDMI 2.1 ports, rather than the four found on some competitors, you’ll need to prioritize which devices get full-featured connections. But the Z95B’s strong built-in sound system reduces the need for a soundbar, making this compromise less restrictive than usual.
Panasonic OLED TVs are usually priced higher than the competition, but the Z95B launched at the same level as key rivals. Add in the fact that discounts are already appearing, and this flagship is excellent value. Factor in the built-in 5.1.2-channel audio, which genuinely removes the need for a separate soundbar, and the Z95B stands out as one of the smartest buys in the premium OLED space right now.
Panasonic Z95B test results
The best OLED TV for bright rooms
1-minute summary: The Samsung S95F has the reflection-beating matte screen of its predecessor, the S95D, but improves on it by maintaining more accurate black levels even in bright conditions. It also delivers spectacular colors and realistic textures. The S95F is a gamer's dream, with 4K 165Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync), ALLM, and HDR10+ gaming support across four HDMI 2.1 ports, and is a good-looking TV, with a razor-thin profile. While its sound could be better and there is still some black crush in darker scenes, the S95F is still undeniably one of 2025's best TVs.
Read our full Samsung S95F review
Reasons to buy
✅ You want an OLED fit for all rooms: With OLED Glare Free anti-reflection tech, the S95F's impeccable picture can be viewed in the brightest of rooms.
✅ You want the QD-OLED experience: Contrast, brightness, and color are all fantastic on the S95F, proving the advantages of its QD-OLED display panel.
✅ You want an OLED that looks premium: A trim profile, razor-thin depth, and an external connections box to keep things neat make the S95F one of the best-looking TVs around.
Reasons to avoid
❌ You want full HDR support: Despite covering nearly all the bases, the S95D does not support Dolby Vision HDR.
❌ You want the absolute best black levels: The S95F's anti-reflection screen is useful, but it does compromise on black levels, which look raised compared to the competition.
❌ You're on a budget: Elite performance does come with an elite price tag, and the S95F sits near the top end of the OLED market.
In-depth analysis
I described the S95F as "a sight to behold even compared to the best OLED TVS" in my review, thanks to its stunning brightness levels, gorgeous, vibrant colors, and solid contrast. The real star of the show is its OLED Glare Free 2.0 screen, which eliminates pesky mirror-like reflections even in the brightest of rooms. Its motion handling is also responsive with a bit of tweaking, making it great for viewing sports. While there are instances of black crush, the S95F's picture is staggeringly good.
Tizen has never been the best smart TV platform, but Tizen 9.0, the 2025 version, is the best one yet. With a useful quick menu, access to every major app, and hubs for app organisation – Game, Home, Daily+, and Ambient – Tizen is now in a better place. Yes, some settings are still buried in deep menus and are a pain to access, but that is my only real gripe with this now-great smart TV system.
The S95F's built-in sound delivers punchy bass, effective placement and tracking of sound thanks to Samsung's Object Tracking Sound+ feature, and speech is clear throughout. Where the S95F comes up short is in its narrow-feeling soundstage, which isn't as immersive as the sound on TVs from the likes of Sony and Panasonic. Some people will be pleased with the S95F's sound, but others may want a soundbar for a more cinematic experience.
Gaming is another area where the S95F shines. It's packed with gaming features, including 4K 165Hz, VRR with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming, along with four HDMI 2.1 ports. It also delivers an ultra-low 9.5ms input lag time as well as Samsung's Gaming Hub with cloud gaming options for those without a console. Picture-wise, the S95F benefits any game played on it. The S95F is a phenomenal gaming TV that gamers will love.
As always, judging a flagship OLED's value is tough. While the S95F more than delivers for the money with its features, picture quality, and premium design, its price tag ($2,499 / £2,499 for the 55-inch model I tested) will outstretch most budgets. The S95F is an elite TV after all, so its hefty price tag is to be expected.
Samsung S95F test results
How to choose an OLED TV
How to choose the best OLED TV for you
- Most OLED TVs are premium: 4K, 120Hz, with four HDMI ports
- Brightness varies greatly, and some have more HDMI 2.1 ports for gaming
- Samsung OLED TVs use HDR10+; most other OLED TVs have Dolby Vision
OLEDs are typically premium TVs, and that means that they come with a premium roster of features. They're all 4K, with 120Hz for gaming, and tend to boast four HDMI ports as well as smart TV software.
That doesn't mean all OLED TVs are built the same, however. Some are way brighter than others (we've seen some OLEDs be twice as bright as competitors), some have more HDMI ports to offer, and some have impressive sound systems even without adding a soundbar.
It's important to consider what size TV is best for you, and to do that, you'll literally need to measure the space you have to work with. Remember, a TV that fills every available scrap of space in your living room might sound like a great idea. Still, you'll need to consider viewing angles, screen brightness, and whether you'll be able to sit a decent distance from the TV to appreciate it fully. The LG C4 has the widest range of sizes of any TV we feature, so if you need something smaller, that's a great place to start.
When it comes to HDR support, we recommend that people choose TVs with Dolby Vision because it's the most commonly used advanced HDR format on the best streaming services. Samsung TVs only use HDR10+, which is a similar technology, but not as well supported. It's not a dealbreaker that Samsung's TVs don't support Dolby Vision, but as you'll see in our list, we prefer sets that include it.
How much do OLED TVs cost?
- Entry-level OLED TVs tend to cost from $1,000 / £900 / AU$1,500
- You'll pay twice as much for mid-tier OLED TVs and triple for high-end sets
- Sales events like Black Friday and Prime Day are a great time to buy an OLED TV
The cost of OLED TVs varies hugely depending on what technologies are thrown in with an OLED panel, such as the resolution, processor, build quality, built-in speakers, and more. But suffice to say that entry-level models sit around (or, more recently, just under) the $1,000 / £900 / AU$1,500 mark.
More mid-tier OLEDs at larger sizes (65 inches and above) can double that figure, or triple it when you're looking at the cutting-edge high-end panels. You might also notice that you don't get that much of a lower price with the smaller 42-inch sizes of OLED TV – that's because making them so small relies on relatively new tech, so they're not quite such good value per inch.
Sales periods such as Prime Day or Black Friday tend to include lots of discounts on OLED TV models, though, especially from LG and Samsung.
Should I buy OLED or QLED?
- Samsung TVs often use its competing QLED tech rather than OLED
- QLED generally has better brightness than OLED
- Mini LED TVs have OLED-rivalling or beating contrast
OLED isn't the only option for savvy TV buyers. Samsung's competing QLED televisions outperform for brightness, while the introduction of Mini LED backlights has only improved peak light output and overall contrast – the areas that OLED generally has the upper hand with, thanks to its per-pixel brightness control.
It's a tighter race than ever, then, though it's worth assessing secondary characteristics for OLED and QLED screens. An OLED with a cheap processor may cause more artefacts and video noise, while a QLED with edge-lighting won't get the true benefit of its enhanced color and contrast. Format or feature support can be crucial if you're hooking up your TV to a PC, a games console, or a 4K Blu-ray player, too.
What is the lifespan of an OLED TV?
- The average OLED TV has a lifespan of 100,000 hours
- That's about 10 years
- Most LED-LCD TVs have a lifespan of 40,000 - 60,000 years
LG Display, who produce the OLED panels found in every OLED TV in this list, claims that the average lifespan of an OLED TV is about 100,000 hours. That amounts to roughly 10 years – and far exceeds the 40,000 to 60,000 hour lifespans of most LED-LCD TVs.
However, it's important to be aware of burn-in. OLED TVs are susceptible to this issue, where a static image is left on the screen for prolonged periods of time and leaves a permanent impression on the display.
Best OLED TV competitors: what else is out there?
- QD-OLEDs are offered by Samsung and Sony, merging OLED panels and quantum dots
- Micro LEDs are available too, but at massive sizes
OLED is, for many, the premium TV tech of the moment. Though once weighed down by inaccessible price points, a flurry of cheaper mid-range OLEDs and smaller panel sizes has helped bring OLED closer to the mass market.
Samsung and Sony's current TV lineups include QD-OLED hybrids (they combine OLED panels with quantum dot tech, utilising the self-emissive properties of the former and color enhancements of the latter) – we have a separate guide to whether you should buy a Samsung OLED TV, if you want to read more about them.
For those with cash to splash, you'll be choosing between a high-end OLED TV and Micro LED – a self-emissive panel technology that Samsung has leaned into in recent times, but which has proved difficult to offer either affordably or at mainstream sizing (88-inch is the smallest we've heard about so far, as of 2024).
It's a more complicated picture than simply OLED, then, though for deep blacks and true-to-life color, at a size you can actually get into the average living room – OLED may still be the best choice.
Is burn-in a problem in OLED TVs?
- Burn-in has traditionally been a problem on OLED TVs
- Most OLED TVs now have ways to prevent burn-in, including Auto Brightness Limiting (ABL)
- These days, burn-in is not a big problem or something to worry about
Burn-in, also known as screen burn or permanent image retention, is a visual artefact that sometimes appears when a TV has shown the same thing in the same place for a long time. It definitely happens on some OLED TVs, but manufacturers have come up with lots of ways to minimise the likelihood of it happening to yours.
There are three main ways in which OLED TVs can minimise the likelihood of burn-in. They can use image analysis to identify static images – TV channel logos, for example – and subtly dim them. They can gently shift the image around by a few pixels, something that your OLED probably does already without you noticing it.
And there's a more brute-force approach, where the TV automatically dials down the brightness of the whole display when it detects a bright and potentially burn-in item. That latter one is the least popular because if it isn't implemented well, it can be quite dramatic and quite annoying. More modern TVs with this tech, known as ABL (Auto Brightness Limiting), are much more subtle about it than older ones.
Last but not least, you can take the DIY route. The default modes, such as Vivid Mode on some TVs, can be ridiculously bright, so changing them or using less blazing settings will make your eyes happy and reduce the risk of burn-in even further.
Ultimately, burn-in is all about heat, hence the name. And the best way to reduce the risk of it and perhaps eliminate it altogether is to manage heat better in OLED TVs. And manufacturers are doing just that. You'll find clever heatsink technology and heat dissipation design in OLEDs from Panasonic, LG, Sony, and more.
We're not saying burn-in doesn't exist. It does. But the advances in OLED TV tech in recent years mean it's much less of an issue than it was in early OLEDs, and for most of us, it's something we don't really need to worry about too much.
Which OLED TVs are best for gaming?
- OLED TVs usually have a fast 120Hz or 144Hz refresh rate, which is great for gaming
- The Xbox Series X's Dolby Vision format won't work with Samsung TVs
- Look for HDMI 2.1 ports – ideally four – for ultimate gaming performance
Arguably, all OLED TVs are ideal for gaming as they typically have a fast, 120Hz or higher refresh rate and pixel-level brightness control that helps fast-motion images look solid. Even so, there are differences between the various OLED TVs in this guide that can make them better suited for different gaming scenarios.
High dynamic range support varies among the different TV brands, and that can have an impact on gaming. Samsung TVs, for instance, support the HDR10+ format, but not Dolby Vision. So, if you’re using an Xbox Series X console, you won’t be able to take advantage of its Dolby Vision gaming capabilities when playing on a Samsung TV. LG TVs, in contrast, do have Dolby Vision HDR support, but not the competing HDR10+ format. That’s not as much of an issue for gaming, however, as the availability of games with HDR10+ is very limited compared to Dolby Vision. Panasonic TVs support both the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ formats.
If you’re looking for a maximum 4K 144Hz refresh rate for PC gaming, you’ll find broad support for that feature among the TVs in this guide. In fact, the only TV that doesn’t offer 4K 144Hz support is the LG B5, which maxes out at 4K 120Hz.
The Samsung and LG TVs in this guide each provide four HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 120Hz pass-through. Having four HDMI ports on a TV used for gaming is important because it allows you to connect both PS5 and Xbox One X gaming consoles and take advantage of their high refresh rate capability while also connecting a soundbar to the TV. Like many other TVs, the Panasonic TV in our guide maxes out at two HDMI 2.1 ports. That’s not so much of an issue in this case, however, since Panasonic’s excellent built-in speaker system is powerful enough that you don’t necessarily need a soundbar.
How bright are OLED TVs compared to other TVs?
- OLED TVs previously struggled with brightness
- New tech, such as QD-OLED and Micro Lens Array, has vastly improved brightness
- Modern OLEDs are now competitively bright
OLED TVs previously lagged behind other TVs, like QLEDs, when it came to brightness – but today's OLED options have closed the gap.
This is partially thanks to the development of new panel technologies – like QD-OLED. Developed by Samsung, the tech combines an OLED display panel with the quantum dots used in specific Samsung and Sony OLED TVs. LG developed Micro Lens Array, which combines a layer of microscopic lens elements with an OLED panel used by specific models from LG and other brands, like Panasonic. LG has also introduced the Primary Tandem RGB (four-stack) panel to the mix, adding even more brightness and more accurate black levels and color to deliver brightness as we've never seen in an OLED before.
These innovations mean that OLEDs are brighter than ever – and some even exceed the brightness of mini-LED TVs, which are typically the brightest of the bunch.
How we test the best OLED TVs
• We run a suite of subjective and objective tests when reviewing TVs
• We use specialized equipment such as colorimeters and test pattern generators
• We test gaming features, upscaling, viewing angles, and use different AV sources
When testing the best OLED TVs, we use the same criteria that we consider in all of our TV reviews, which focus on picture quality, audio quality, smart TV platform, design, gaming features, and value for money. Our testing is not only made up of subjective opinions about each of the criteria, but also of objective measurements taken using specialized equipment – you can read our full guide to how we test TVs at TechRadar, or read on for a summary.
Using different AV sources, including broadcast, streaming, and Blu-ray, we’ll run on every TV whilst cycling through its picture preset modes, such as Sport, Movie, and Standard, to determine which settings are the most accurate for different types of media. We do this to determine what the best settings are for watching movies and TV shows, or a sports match, for example. Once we have established which picture modes are best suited for different types of content, we then analyze aspects of the display, such as its colors, contrast, black levels, and more, using reference scenes we have specifically chosen to best evaluate these.
When testing an OLED’s picture quality, we’re looking for deep black levels and contrast, which should be better than many other TVs on the market thanks to the screen’s ability to dim individual pixels over local dimming found in LCD TVs – often this is determined by zones and the backlight’s ability. We’ll also look at the color’s vibrancy and punchiness compared to textures and details, particularly sharpness and true-to-life accuracy.
Using lower-resolution sources such as broadcast and DVD, we’ll also test a TV’s upscaling, looking to see how effectively that TV’s processing can enhance lower-res images to be displayed on a larger, 4K screen. During these tests, we also consider the viewing angle from off-center seats, which – again with the OLED panel’s ability to self-dim – should maintain strong contrast levels and picture quality even from the most awkward of viewing positions.
After these subjective tests, we then take specialized equipment — a colorimeter, test pattern generator, and Portrait Displays’ Calman calibration software – to perform objective tests and record the results, taking measurements of brightness, color, and grayscale accuracy, gamut, and more.
The first test we usually do is of the TV’s brightness. Using different-sized white window patterns, we measure the TV’s peak brightness on windows, including 10%, which will show the maximum brightness we can expect from the TV itself, and 100% to test full-screen brightness, which will demonstrate how the TV can handle consistent levels of brightness across the whole screen (this is key when viewing sports). Full-screen brightness also gives an idea of how well a TV will manage reflections.
OLED TVs have often been known to offer lower levels of brightness when compared to QLED and mini-LED. But in recent years, the introduction of OLED EX panels and micro-lens-array (MLA) tech means we expect higher peak brightness levels, but still lower full-screen brightness when compared to other LCD panels. We use light-controlled environments when testing brightness to make sure any other light sources, environmental or otherwise, do not affect results.
We also test color reproduction in both SDR and HDR to compare its accuracy when displaying different source materials and the maximum color gamut it can show on screen. We do the same for grayscale as well, testing just how accurately a TV displays gray tones from black to white. With OLED TVs, we expect color accuracy to be among the best in the TV market, along with grayscale.
Gaming is another important aspect of TVs nowadays, so we make sure to test a TV’s gaming performance by analyzing response time, graphics, and latency — all of which are areas OLED TVs often excel at. We also look out for features such as a Game Mode (for adjusting a TV’s settings to the optimum for gaming), 4K 120Hz, VRR, and more. We measure response time by using a Leo Bodnar 4K HDMI input lag tester to see what latency is added by a TV’s processing.
We always aim to keep our testing as consistent as possible, but it’s important to note that some of our writers’ setups and testing environments do vary. We do, however, make sure that all tests conducted use the same criteria across all of our writers, also making sure that the equipment is similar enough to achieve the same level of accuracy.
More OLED TVs we've tested
Other OLED TVs that we've tested
Sony Bravia 8 II: Sony's flagship OLED TV, the Bravia 8 II, uses a QD-OLED panel to produce rich, accurate, and detailed pictures. It also delivers built-in sound that's clear, powerful, and immersive thanks to its Acoustic Surface Audio+ feature. While it is an excellent TV, it doesn't beat the Panasonic Z95B or LG G5 for places on this list. Read our full Sony Bravia 8 II review.
Sony Bravia 8: The Bravia 8 impressed us during testing with its lifelike details and vivid colors, thanks to a brightness boost over its predecessor, the Sony A80L. It's also a solid gaming TV, with 'perfect for PS5' features, and has brilliant built-in sound. While it's a great TV, it doesn't hit the right price point like the LG C5. But if you want a mid-range OLED TV with good sound, it's a very strong option, as our full Sony Bravia 8 review explains.
Samsung S85F: A more affordable OLED TV, the Samsung S85F offers the rich color and strong contrast that you'd want from an OLED. It also has a full suite of gaming features with matching performance, as well as the best version of the Tizen smart TV interface to date. It's held off the list by the LG B5, which is more accurate, better value, and comes in more sizes. The S85F is still a great TV, though. Read our full Samsung S85F review.
Why is the Samsung S90F series not in this guide?
The Samsung S90F series OLED TV received a five-star rating in our Samsung S90F review, but isn’t included in this guide. The main reason for this is that the 65-inch model Samsung sent us for review features a QD-OLED display panel, while other screen sizes in the S90F series are subject to a ‘panel lottery’ where either a QD-OLED or a regular W-OLED display panel may be used in the TV.
This means that our Samsung S90F ratings apply to the 65-inch model and don’t necessarily extend to other screen sizes in the S90F series. Our review praised the S90F for its impressive brightness, richer color than its Samsung S90D predecessor, and its crisp 4K upscaling of HD sources. The only areas where we found its picture lacking were a tendency to crush shadow detail in some presets, and a slight gray cast to blacks when watched in rooms with bright ambient lighting – a limitation you won’t find on OLED TVs with higher peak light output, such as the LG G5 (included in this guide as 'The best premium OLED ').'
Otherwise, S90F series TVs are an excellent option for gaming, with 4K 144Hz support across all four HDMI 2.1 ports, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro format, and Nvidia G-Sync, Samsung’s Gaming Hub for cloud-based gaming, and an ultra-low 9.2ms measured input lag. The 65S90F model we tested is also a great value for a QD-OLED TV, coming in around £700 / $800 cheaper than the 65-inch version of Samsung’s S95F flagship OLED for 2025.
The latest updates to this best OLED TVs guide
October 20, 2026
Replaced the LG C5 with the LG C6 as 'Best overall. Replaced the LG B5 with the LG B6 as 'Best cheap OLED'. Replaced the LG G5 with the LG G6 as 'Best Premium OLED'.
September 16, 2026
Refreshed our FAQ section with updated information on OLED brightness and buying advice.
August 4, 2026
Updated our pricing widget (at the top of the page) and gave the article intro a refresh to reflect our current OLED rankings.
July 16, 2026
Added a 'Latest news' section, which will be regularly updated with industry trends, releases, and more.
June 19, 2026
Added Prime Day and FIFA World Cup information, and updated FAQ section.
May 18, 2026
Refreshed page introduction and added LG C6 to 'TVs we've also tested' section.
January 13, 2026
Replaced the LG B4 with its successor the LG B5 as 'best budget OLED'. Went through and updated the 'How to Choose' and 'Other OLED TVs we've tested' sections.
October 24, 2025
Replaced the LG C4 with the newer LG C5 as our 'best for most people' pick, based on our recent testing.
August 27, 2025
Replaced the Panasonic Z95A with the brand's latest flagship OLED TV, the Panasonic Z95B, as our 'Best for sound' pick.
July 1, 2025
Replaced the Samsung S95D with the Samsung S95F due to the latter's higher brightness and improved black levels.
