Best LEDs & LCDs in 2020 (February Reviews)
As we set out on our quest to find the best LED TV for 2020, we started online. There are hundreds of options to sift through, which can be overwhelming in and of itself, so we took care of that legwork for you. In our online research, we created a list of the top 20 LED TVs, which had the most and best customer reviews, along with the features we were looking for – 4K resolution, plenty of input ports and sleek designs.
After we finished our online research, we purchased all of the TVs on that list of 20 so we could plug them in at home and put them through some real-world testing. During our hands-on testing, we measured things like color accuracy, picture quality and ease of use. Once we had watched everything in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we eliminated all but 5 LED TVs and created our top 5 list. At the top of that list is the Samsung UN65RU7100FXZA, which offers a superb picture along with a fantastic price. Keep reading our buying guide to learn more about our top pick and the other TVs that made the list.
Best LED TV For 2020
 |  |  |  |  | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung UN65RU7100FXZA | Sony X750F | Hisense 50H8F | TCL S425 Series | LG OLED55B8PUA | |
| Rank | #1 - Editor's Choice/ Best Large 4K TV | #2 - Best Connection Options | #3 - Best Budget LED TV | #4 - Best Screen Size Choices | #5 - Best Smart TV Interface |
| Amazon Rating |  | | | | |
| 4k Capable |  | | | |  |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Refresh Rates | 60hz | 60hz | 240hz | 120hz | 60hz |
| Local Dimming | | | | | |
| HDMI Inputs | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| WiFi | | | | | |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
#1 Pick Samsung UN65RU7100FXZA 4K UHD TV – Best Large 4K TV
Why we picked it: Plenty of options for size and a great 4K TV at a very affordable price make this line-up the best around.
Samsung has been making some great TVs for years now, and when 4K rolled along the company was ready with new models to take advantage of it. In addition to the extra-high resolution, this TV comes with 3 HDMI ports and 2 USB ports. We know that we just got finishing talking about how all those buzzwords and terms that TV makers throw around can be safely ignored, but we would like to point out that this model does come with UHD dimming, which automatically adjusts backlight based on sensors reading – you may or may not notice the effects, but it is a cool little addition.
Note also that we picked the 65-inch version of this TV to highlight, because this is a great size to emphasize the clarity of 4K definition while still being small enough to fit into the average entertainment system. However, you can choose a different size very easily if you prefer a smaller or larger model. Just remember to not go too small, since this can negate the amazing effects of 4K definition.
#2 Pick Sony X750F 4K LED TV – Best Connection Options
Why we picked it: Great connectivity and an amazing price point set this 4K LED TV apart, especially for those on a budget.
Compared to the average 4K TV on the market this Sony model is cheap, cheap, cheap – but don’t mistake that for a lack of quality – this is one of the best LED TV options for the price. Two features immediately stand out: First, it has a ton of different smart TV options, like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, Android TV and Playstation Vue. Second, this TV has more connectivity than usual with 3 USB ports, 4 HDMI ports, a component port, a composite port, an Ethernet port, a Digital Optical Audio Out port, and a couple others…an ideal set-up for an entertainment system.
We should add, however, that the refresh rate is a bit low at 60Hz. This is completely tolerable, but for really fast action or other specific image demands you may notice the difference from, say, a 120Hz TV.
As with the Samsung model and some of our other picks, there are multiple sizes available for this Sony TV, ranging from 43-inch models to 65-inch options. Prices increase predictably along with size, so choosing a smaller model is a great way to save even more money.
#3 Pick Hisense 50H8F 4K LED TV – Best Budget LED TV
Why we picked it: Affordability and great image quality for a 4K TV make this model stand out once we clear away the OLEDs.
There are several entries in the H8F series, but the 50-inch model is an ideal candidate for best LED TV, and chances are good that you will really how much lower the price is compared to some of the other models out there (particularly OLED). This screen is 4K and comes with plenty of smart TV options, but it is not OLED, which is why both the picture quality and the price take a big hit.
Read: Samsung UN65JS8500 Review
Other features include HDR10 and Dolby Vision HDR, as well as full array local dimming for a more dynamic viewing experience. Ports including four HDMI, two USB, and one composite. Hisense likes to tout its UHD upscaling features, but be warned here that you want to avoid upscaling when possible, because it can screw with picture quality.
#4 Pick TCL S425 Series – Best Screen Size Choices
Why we picked it: Tons of size options and a quality screen at a low price make these models hard to beat.
The TCL S425 series is quickly gaining popularity amongst the budget TV shoppers, and it’s easy to see why. For this particular screen, we have focused on the 2020 models, which provide 4K resolutions at an incredibly affordable price. We didn’t list a particular model number for these TCLs because they come with a variety of different sizing options, from 43 inches to 75 inches. Pick the one that’s right for you. This TV beat out the Vizio P-Series this year due to its extreme affordability.
Read: Best 55 Inch TV
All of the models have certain things in common – specs are a bit bare-bones but still solid enough. Notably, there are 3 HDMI ports but only one USB port. The TCL is a Roku TV, as well, which means you’ll get the Roku interface whenever you use the smart functionality of the TV. We’ve never had a problem with this interface, though, so we don’t think you’ll have a problem either. If you’re looking for something affordable with tons of options still, this is the LED TV for you.
#5 Pick LG OLED55B8PUA – Best Smart TV Interface
Why we picked it: An amazing OLED 4K TV with LG’s easy-to-use webOS interface.
OLED, OLED, and OLED. Okay, that’s not the only reason LG’s OLED55B8PUA 55-inch set made our list, but it was a big factor, especially if you’re looking for bang for buck. In addition to absolutely stunning picture quality, this set offers LG’s slick and well vetted smart TV interface, which includes Netflix, HBO Go, YouTube and many, many more.
If that doesn’t satiate your needs, you’ll also appreciate the 60hz refresh rate, 4 HDMI inputs and super thin bezel. Plus, the look of the TV goes well anywhere. What can we say? It was love at first sight for us.
Key Indicators of a Top LED TV
Black Shades: Let’s talk about TV specs for a minute – you can ignore most of them. All those numbers and fancy terms that are used to describe TVs don’t really mean anything at all. Contrast ratios? Easy to fudge however you want. Luminance? Not very important. Color improving technology? It can do more harm than good. You get the idea. However, what will always be important is how well the best LED TV can reproduce quality blacks that actually look black instead of gray. Look for screens that are reviewed to have particularly good black levels.
Color Saturation: It’s not as important as some factors, but color saturation refers to how faithfully the TV can produce colors. This is generally similar across LED TVs and can often be adjusted anyway, but look for TVs that have great color saturation.
Size: Yes, bigger really does tend to be better, especially when it comes to your TV. The size will still have a direct effect on picture quality. Bigger TVs allow higher resolutions to show up more clearly, so for the best picture aim for something that is at least 55-inches.
Curved or Flat: Curved screens are the big new factor that most brands are using in their marketing. When possible choose a flat screen. A curved screen adds little to the picture quality, though some say those seated off center will feel more engaged and it might slightly reduce reflections.
Reflections: A TV’s glass facade, by its nature, will be reflective. However, a well made TV will reduce reflections and in turn improve picture quality.
Most Important LED TV Features
Resolution
- As we have mentioned, look for resolution numbers that is at least “1080”. That’s full HD.
- Keep in mind that higher resolution sets may be called 4K or Ultra, depending on the brand.
- Resolution is more noticeable the larger the screen.
Screen Type
- There are actually a few different types of LED TVs to consider. All use some form of innate backlighting, but in different ways.
- The best LED TV options use OLED or organic light-emitting diodes. These screens have an organic compound on each diode that allows the diode to glow when it produces color (a little like a glowing jellyfish, if that helps). This means that the screen and the backlighting are literally the same thing, and that one ultra-thin panel can produce brighter, better colors than any other type of LED TV. The downside is that OLEDs are still pretty expensive to produce and so the MSRP tends to be too much for many wallets. And hence why this article doesn’t include any.
- In absence of OLED, look for LED screens that have full backlighting instead of just backlighting around the edges (aka edge lit). This tends to improve the image quality in most circumstances and often means local dimming, allowing the TV to turn off LEDs in smaller area thus improving blacks and reducing light leak.
Refresh Rates
- The refresh rate refers to how quickly the image is updated, and is typically measured in Hz. Does this refresh rate matter? A little – which is why we are mentioning it. If two TVs with absolutely everything else in common, the TV with the higher refresh rate is usually better at sports, games and action scenes, depending on content.
- Look for 120Hz and 240Hz screens instead of 60Hz. Generally anything higher than 60Hz is better, but don’t let this become a selling point.
Connectivity
- Nearly every TV these days has some smart features. If you rely on TV smart features instead of a set-top box or console to access apps like Netflix and so on, make sure that your TV has the right smart features and works with your favorite brands and apps.
- We tend to go with WiFi enabled TVs for convenience. But those on a budget might wanna consider those without, like our #5 pick.
Which LED TV Is Right for You
As often happens, your choice comes down to how much TV you can afford. A large OLED TV like those offered by LG and now Panasonic will give you the best blacks and picture possible, but are often incredibly expensive. Fortunately, 4K TVs are currently hitting the sweet spot in terms of price, so if you are stuck with traditional LED and a practical budget, look into Samsung and Vizio. We put Samsung a bit head because of reliability and features, but Vizio’s options are certainly worth a look, too.
Also Read: Best TV For Gaming
Latest LED / LCD TV Reviews & Buyer Guides
What Brand of LED TV is Best?
Let us help you make an informed decision with our LED TV reviews on the latest and best LED TVs available. Get in-depth reviews, specs, price comparisons and more on all types of Televisions at Gadget Review, whether it’s smart TVs, outdoor TVs, HDTV’s or 3D TVs. LG, Samsung, Sharp, Panasonic, Sony, Toshiba, Vizio and other companies all manufacture LED TVs, but which brand do you choose? Let our expert television reviews help you.
LED TVs are the most common type of televisions currently on the market. Formally known as LED-backlit LCD displays, they are actually LCD TVs that use LED backlighting instead of CCFL backlighting used by other LCD displays. There are currently three types of LEDs: Edge-lit LEDs, LED “full array” backlighting, and Dynamic “local dimming” backlighting.
At Gadget Review you can get expert reviews and comparisons of the top-rated LED TVs, so you are well-prepared for your next television purchase. We will bring the latest news and advice on the best LED Televisions on the market.
Choosing a new LED TV can be a challenge, especially since there are many models available from many different brands.
The products from some brands are widely regarded to outperform others, and you should stick to the most reputable names if you want to purchase a high-end product.
Most brands offer the same features, including high refresh rates, full array local dimming, and wide viewing angles. The difference is that reputable manufacturers typically offer high-end quality and produce products that last for many years.
The best LED TV brands include Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and TCL. If you want the best in terms of color gamut, contrast ratios, LED-backlit LCD quality, and Ultra HD TV, select a television from one of these brands.
3 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an LED TV
Paying for Features that You Won’t Use
Features like motion smoothing and 3D often increase the TV’s price tag. If you’re not planning on using these features, select a more affordable model without the bells and whistles.
Ignoring Ports
Most people have unique entertainment system setups. Make sure that the LED TV you buy has enough USB and HDMI ports to accommodate all gaming consoles, streaming devices, and hard drives that you may want to connect.
Confusing LED and OLED
LED televisions are bright and suitable for well-lit rooms. OLED televisions, on the other hand, offer high picture quality, dark black tones, and reduced image blurring.
How Long Does an LED TV Last?
A modern LED TV can last anywhere between 60,000 to 100,000 hours. This is a theoretical lifespan; however, and many factors determine the life expectancy of your television, including the brand, how well you take care of it, and its contrast and brightness settings.
If you keep your brightness settings low and take proper care of the unit, you can expect it to perform well for seven years or longer.
Have you always fantasized about getting that awesome LED TV, but you have no idea where to start? TVs are the perfect entertainment tool for any home. Lying on the couch and watching endless hours of TV is the perfect way for most people to spend their free time. Countless couples spend their weekends this way, enjoying each other's company and the TV. This means choosing the right TV is a very important decision.
Gadget Review understands this. This is why we bring you the best LED TV Reviews to help you make that decision. We sample the best LED TVs based on hdr content, refresh rate, remote control and screen size. We also look at every smart tv, android tv and 4k tv with hdmi inputs that we can find. 3D TVs, LCD TVs and OLED TVs are also analyzed here.
Do you need recommendations for the optimum viewing angle, image quality, home theatre system and blu rays? Our buying guide will open you up to all these features so you can select the best option for your price range. If you need the best streaming services for 4k tvs, or the best lcd tv, led tv or oled tv that can give you the best bright colorful image quality, we have got you covered there too. With Gadget Review, you cannot go wrong when it comes to buying that perfect TV.