When it comes to gaming, having the right TV can make all the difference. Not only do you want a TV with fantastic image quality, but you also need one that offers low input lag and the right connectivity options for your gaming console. In this article, we will explore some of the best gaming TVs on the market, taking into consideration factors such as image quality, input lag, connectivity, and budget.
The Importance of Low Input Lag
Input lag refers to the delay between when you press a button on your controller and when the action is displayed on the screen. For gamers, low input lag is crucial for a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The best gaming TVs on the market offer input lag of under 17ms or 15ms, ensuring minimal delay between your actions and what you see on the screen.
Considerations for Choosing a Gaming TV
When choosing a gaming TV, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a TV with low input lag, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, it’s important to consider the connectivity options available on the TV. HDMI 2.1 connectivity is essential for making the most of next-gen gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Budget is another important consideration. While high-end models often offer the best gaming features, there are also more affordable options available that still provide excellent gaming performance. It’s essential to find a balance between your budget and the features you prioritize most.
Top Gaming TVs for Console Enthusiasts
1. LG C2 OLED
The LG C2 OLED is a top pick for gamers who want the best gaming TV with a knockout OLED screen. It offers a significantly brighter display compared to its predecessor, the LG C1, and comes with improved processing and color saturation. The 4K OLED display delivers breathtaking black levels and dynamic range, making it ideal for gaming and watching movies. The LG C2 also features FreeSync, G-Sync, and standard VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) right out of the box, ensuring a smooth and immersive gaming experience. With a native 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 support, it’s compatible with the latest gaming consoles and high-end PCs.
2. Sony X90K LED TV
The Sony X90K LED TV is an excellent value option for gamers, especially for PS5 owners. It features a full-array LED backlight with local dimming, resulting in deep blacks, high brightness, and vibrant colors. The X90K offers 4K 120Hz video support, variable refresh rate (VRR), and auto low latency mode (ALLM), making it a great choice for gaming. With an input lag of just 13.8ms, it provides a responsive gaming experience. Additionally, it supports Auto HDR Tone Mapping and an Auto Genre Picture Mode when connected to a PlayStation 5 console, optimizing the image for gaming.
3. Samsung QN85B
The Samsung QN85B is a mini-LED display that excels in brighter rooms. It delivers incredible brightness and features an exceptionally low input lag for a TV of its size. The QN85B supports HDMI 2.1, 4K 120Hz, ALLM, VRR, and FreeSync Premium Pro, making it an ideal choice for next-gen consoles. The contrast and color range of the QN85B are impressive, and its image processing ensures a clean and punchy picture. While the audio may not be the best, it offers four speaker drivers and compatibility with Samsung soundbars for an enhanced sound experience.
4. TCL 6-Series Roku TV (2022)
The TCL 6-Series Roku TV (2022) is the best budget 4K TV for gamers in the US. It offers unbeaten image quality for the price and supports 4K 120Hz and VRR. With an input lag of just 10.1ms, it provides a responsive gaming experience. The TCL 6-Series also features four HDMI ports, two of which support HDMI 2.1. While the built-in speakers may not be the most impressive, they can be easily supplemented with a soundbar or gaming headphones.
5. Samsung Q80B
The Samsung Q80B is a great mid-range 4K QLED TV that offers high frame rate gaming support. It features a full array backlight and offers four HFR (high frame rate) compatible HDMI inputs. The Q80B supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Nvidia G-Sync, and FreeSync Premium Pro for gaming. With its Dolby Atmos compatible sound system and impressive picture quality, it provides an immersive gaming and entertainment experience. However, it’s important to note that it lacks Dolby Vision support.
6. LG B2 OLED
The LG B2 OLED is the cheapest OLED gaming TV on our list. While it may not be as bright as other high-end OLED TVs, it still offers great contrast and response times. It supports 4K 120Hz gaming with VRR, FreeSync, and G-Sync. The LG B2 features a low input lag of just 9.1ms and automatically switches to gaming mode when a console is detected. Although it has two HDMI 2.1 ports instead of four, it provides all the essential features for a smooth gaming experience.
7. Samsung S95C
The Samsung S95C is a QD-OLED TV that combines the self-emissive properties of OLED with the brightness and color range of QLED. It offers impressive picture quality and brightness, making it ideal for bright rooms. The S95C features four HDMI ports that support 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and FreeSync. With its Dolby Atmos compatible sound system, it delivers immersive audio. However, it does not support Dolby Vision and comes with a higher price tag.
8. Sony A95K
The Sony A95K is Sony’s flagship QD-OLED TV, offering stunning picture quality and next-gen gaming features. With its Cognitive XR processor and Quantum Dot OLED screen, it delivers beautiful images. It supports 4K 120Hz, VRR, and features ‘Perfect for PlayStation 5’ compatibility, optimizing HDR game output settings and picture mode for gaming. The A95K offers two HDMI 2.1 ports and provides an immersive audio experience with its Dolby Atmos compatible sound system.
9. Sony A80K
The Sony A80K is a more affordable ‘Perfect for PS5’ OLED gaming TV. It offers 4K 120Hz and VRR support over two HDMI 2.1 ports. With a low input lag of 12ms, it delivers a responsive gaming experience. The A80K provides excellent OLED contrast, response times, and picture quality. Its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology ensures immersive sound. While it may not be as bright as other high-end TVs, it offers infinite contrast and is a great choice for PS5 owners.
Is a TV Good for PC Gaming?
Gaming TVs can also be a suitable choice for PC gaming. However, it’s important to consider your PC’s capabilities, especially in terms of handling the TV’s resolution. 4K gaming on a TV requires more resources from your PC compared to a smaller monitor. If your PC can handle the resolution, playing PC games on a big screen can result in a visually stunning experience. However, if your PC is not powerful enough, playing on a smaller monitor may provide a sharper and cleaner image.
Finding the Right Gaming TV for You
When it comes to finding the right gaming TV, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Take into account factors such as image quality, input lag, connectivity options, and budget. The TVs mentioned in this article offer a range of features and price points, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a console enthusiast or a PC gamer, the right gaming TV can elevate your gaming experience to new heights.
