These days, TVs are no longer just simple screens – they are smart entertainment hubs that can transform our living room into a home theater, a gaming arena or even a gym. But with so many options, technologies and price ranges, choosing the perfect smart TV can quickly become a challenge.
Whether you’re looking for a model with crisp 4K or 8K resolution, impressive sound, an intuitive user interface or special features such as gaming modes and voice control, this article will give you everything you need to know to find the best smart TV for your needs. We compare the top models and show you what really matters so that you don’t get any nasty surprises when buying.
The best smart TVs: Our top 6 recommendations
Samsung S95D
The Samsung S95D is an OLED 4K Smart TV that impresses with its innovative technology. Thanks to OLED HDR Pro, it delivers an almost infinite level of brightness and dramatic detail, while OLED technology ensures the deepest blacks and vibrant colors. In addition, the OLED Glare-Free function minimizes distracting reflections so that content is displayed clearly and distinctly even in bright rooms.
For gaming enthusiasts, the S95D offers an ultra-fast refresh rate with Motion Xcelerator 144Hz, which ensures smooth movements without delays or blurring. In combination with the Tizen OS, the Smart TV enables quick access to a wide range of apps and streaming services, ensuring a versatile entertainment experience.
The Samsung S95D is available in a range of sizes, including 55″, 65″ and 77″, to suit different room sizes and needs. With its sleek design and advanced features, it sets new standards in the home theater experience, combining impressive picture quality with smart technology.
LG C4
The LG OLED evo C4 is a 4K Smart TV that impresses with state-of-the-art OLED technology. Thanks to over 8.3 million self-illuminating pixels, it offers perfect blacks and vibrant colors for a breathtaking viewing experience. The 7th generation Alpha 9 AI processor optimizes picture and sound through AI Picture Pro and AI Super Upscaling, displaying content in the highest quality.
For movie and series lovers, the C4 supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, which ensures impressive picture and sound quality. The integrated FILMMAKER MODE™ makes it possible to watch movies exactly as the directors intended. In addition, the webOS 24 operating system offers a user-friendly interface with access to numerous streaming services and apps.
Gaming enthusiasts will benefit from a 144 Hz refresh rate, NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium and a response time of just 0.1 ms, ensuring a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The slim design of the LG OLED evo C4 blends seamlessly into any living environment and sets new standards in home cinema and gaming
Samsung S90D
The Samsung S90D is the slightly cheaper and slightly slimmed-down version of the S95D. It is an OLED 4K Smart TV that impresses with its advanced technology and impressive picture quality. OLED technology enables the deepest blacks and vivid colors, while OLED HDR+ ensures powerful brightness and high contrast. In addition, the Real Depth Enhancer offers a realistic depth representation that makes the viewing experience even more intense.
The S90D is particularly attractive for gaming fans: with Motion Xcelerator 144Hz, games and content are displayed with ultra-smooth movements and virtually no delays or blurring. The integrated gaming hub makes it possible to stream your favorite games directly from the TV without a console. In addition, four HDMI 2.1 inputs ensure optimum connection of modern games consoles and devices.
Available in various sizes, including 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″ and 83″, the Samsung S90D adapts to different room sizes and requirements. Its sleek design blends seamlessly into any living environment, while the Tizen OS allows quick access to numerous apps and streaming services. With features such as the solar-powered Smart Remote and support for Apple AirPlay, the S90D offers a comprehensive and user-friendly entertainment experience
Sony BRAVIA 9 QLED
The Sony BRAVIA 9 is a Mini-LED QLED 4K HDR Google TV that uses the latest technology to provide an outstanding viewing experience. Thanks to the XR Backlight Master Drive, thousands of mini LEDs are precisely controlled to deliver authentic contrast and exceptional brightness. The powerful XR processor optimizes picture and sound for an impressive display.
For gaming enthusiasts, the BRAVIA 9 offers HDMI 2.1 features such as 4K at 120 Hz, VRR and ALLM for smooth motion and minimal input lag. Support for Dolby Vision and DTS audio ensures high-quality picture and sound.
The BRAVIA 9’s sleek design blends seamlessly into any living environment and offers a user-friendly smart TV interface with access to numerous streaming services and apps. With its combination of advanced technology and elegant design, the BRAVIA 9 sets new standards in the field of consumer electronics.
Best 8K Smart TV: Samsung QN900D 8k QLED
If you are looking for the best possible picture, you should go for a TV with 8K resolution, even if the corresponding content is currently still limited. Nevertheless, Samsung is currently in the lead here too with the Samsung QN900D. Thanks to the NQ8 AI Gen3 processor and 8K AI Upscaling Pro technology, content is displayed in breathtaking 8K resolution, even if it was originally available in a lower resolution.
The virtually frameless Infinity Air design maximizes the screen area and provides an immersive viewing experience. With a refresh rate of 144 Hz and support for VRR, the QN900D offers smooth motion and minimal input lag, making it particularly attractive for gaming enthusiasts.
The integrated Smart Hub provides access to over 2,700 free channels, including more than 360 premium channels from Samsung TV Plus, offering a wide range of entertainment options. The sleek design blends seamlessly into any living environment and sets new standards in home theater experience.
Price-performance tip: Hisense U8N
The Hisense U8N is a 65-inch 4K Mini-LED ULED Smart TV with advanced technology and impressive picture quality. Thanks to Quantum Dot Color technology, vivid colors and precise color shades are created, while Full Array Local Dimming Pro with over 100 independently controlled dimming zones ensures deep blacks and high contrasts. Support for Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos® ensures an immersive viewing experience with impressive picture and sound.
For gaming enthusiasts, the U8N offers a refresh rate of 144 Hz, support for HDR10+ and a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits, enabling smooth motion and vivid HDR content. Equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports and features such as AMD FreeSync Premium and Game Bar, it is an excellent choice for gamers.
The price-performance ratio of the Hisense U8N is praised by experts and users alike. For around 1,000 euros, the TV offers impressive features and picture quality that is rarely found in this price range. Testers emphasize the high brightness, strong contrast and extensive features that make the U8N a recommendable option for price-conscious buyers.
Smart TVs vs normal TVs: What’s the difference?
In today’s world of consumer electronics, the term “smart TV” is almost ubiquitous. But what exactly is behind this term and how do smart TVs differ from conventional TVs? In this article, we take a detailed look at the features, benefits and differences between these two types of TV.
What is a smart TV?
A smart TV is more than just a device for watching TV – it is a multifunctional entertainment center. Smart TVs are internet-enabled televisions that allow users to access a variety of online services. These include:
- Streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and YouTube.
- Apps for music, games, fitness and more.
- Web browsing to surf the internet directly on the TV.
- Voice control via integrated assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri.
These devices combine traditional TV features with the functions of a computer, making them a control center for digital entertainment.
How do smart TVs differ from normal televisions?
To understand the differences between smart TVs and normal TVs, it is worth comparing the most important features of both types of device.
1. internet capability
Probably the most obvious difference is the internet connection.
- Smart TVs: Can be connected to the Internet via WLAN or Ethernet cable, which enables access to online services.
- Normal TVs: Do not offer direct internet capability and can only be connected to the internet via external devices such as streaming sticks or games consoles.
2. apps and content
- Smart TVs: Have an integrated operating system with an app store that allows users to install and use apps.
- Normal TVs: Have no integrated apps; content comes exclusively from traditional sources such as cable, satellite or terrestrial television.
3. user-friendliness
- Smart TVs: Are often equipped with user-friendly menus that make it easier to navigate through apps and content. Voice control and personalized recommendations are also common.
- Normal TVs: Only offer basic functions and menus that are limited to the playback of TV channels and connected devices.
4. multifunctionality
- Smart TVs: Serve not only as a TV, but also as a platform for gaming, video conferencing and even smart home control.
- Normal TVs: Limited to classic use and require additional devices for extended functions.
Advantages of a smart TV
Smart TVs offer numerous advantages that set them apart from conventional televisions:
- Access to a huge selection of content: Users can stream movies, series and music at their convenience.
- Updateability: Apps and software can be updated regularly to integrate new functions.
- Convenience: Features such as voice control and personalized content make it easier and more enjoyable to use.
Disadvantages of a smart TV
Despite the many advantages, there are also some disadvantages that you should be aware of:
- Privacy: internet capability poses potential privacy risks.
- Cost: Smart TVs are generally more expensive than normal TVs.
- Lifespan: As the software may be outdated, some functions may be limited after several years.
Conclusion
A smart TV is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive entertainment solution, while a normal TV remains a good option for users who value simplicity and can do without smart functions. Ultimately, the decision depends on which features are important to you personally and how you want to use your TV. No matter what you choose, the most important goal remains a first-class viewing experience!
Buying smart TVs: What you should look out for
Buying a smart TV can quickly seem overwhelming given the variety of models and features available. To make the right decision, it’s important to know your requirements and understand the key criteria. In this article, we give you a step-by-step guide to what you should look out for when buying a Smart TV.
1. screen size: Does the TV fit in your home?
Choosing the right screen size depends on your room and seating distance.
- Small rooms: 32 to 43 inches are ideal for bedrooms or small living rooms.
- Medium rooms: 50 to 65 inches are suitable for most living rooms.
- Large rooms: 75 inch or larger models create a home theater experience.
2. resolution: Full HD, 4K or 8K?
The resolution determines the sharpness of the picture.
- Full HD (1080p): Sufficient for smaller televisions, but no longer up to date.
- 4K (Ultra HD): The current standard, ideal for large screens and razor-sharp details.
- 8K: Pioneering, but only useful if appropriate content is available and you want a very large device.
3. display technology: LED, OLED or QLED?
The type of display influences the picture quality.
- LED: Inexpensive, well suited for bright rooms.
- OLED: Excellent contrast and deep blacks, ideal for dark environments.
- QLED: Offers a combination of brightness and color intensity, perfect for daylight.
4. operating system and apps
The operating system determines how user-friendly the TV is:
- WebOS (LG): Intuitive operation and lots of apps.
- Tizen (Samsung): Fast navigation and extensive app selection.
- Android TV (Sony, others): Versatile, with access to the Google Play Store.
- Roku TV: Particularly popular in the USA, easy to use. Make sure that your favorite apps such as Netflix, Disney+ or Spotify are available.
5. gaming and performance
When you’re gaming, pay attention:
- Input lag: Low values are crucial for responsive gaming.
- HDMI 2.1: For the use of functions such as 4K at 120 Hz or VRR (Variable Refresh Rate).
- Gaming modes: Optimize performance for console games.
6. sound: Is a soundbar necessary?
The integrated speakers on many TVs can be weak. If good sound is important to you:
- Check whether the TV supports Dolby Atmos.
- Invest in a soundbar or home cinema system.
7. connections: Is the equipment sufficient?
Make sure that the Smart TV has the right connections:
- Enough HDMI ports for games consoles, Blu-ray players and more.
- USB ports for external storage.
- LAN/WLAN: Important for a stable internet connection.
- Bluetooth: For connecting wireless headphones or speakers.
8. price-performance ratio: Set a budget
Define your budget in advance and compare the models. Higher prices do not always mean better quality. Read test reports and customer reviews to find the best value for money.
Conclusion
Buying a smart TV requires good planning and consideration of your individual needs. Whether you want to build a home cinema, set up a gaming station or simply stream your favorite series – with these tips, you’re guaranteed to find the right TV for you. Good luck with your purchase!
