Let me tell you, TVs are like snowflakes – no two are the same. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each designed with a specific purpose in mind.
If money is no object, most folks tend to gravitate towards the larger, more imposing models, those that stretch beyond 55″. Perfect for family movie nights or creating your very own home theatre.
But today, I want to shine a spotlight on the underdogs of the TV world – the smaller sets. You see, depending on your space, a smaller TV might just be the perfect fit.
In my living room, I’ve got a not the best 50-inch but a 55″ beast that’s perfect for movie nights. But when I was decking out my game room, I needed something a bit more compact. The same goes for my kitchen, where I’ve got a small TV that I can cast to while I’m whipping up a meal.
A larger TV would be like a bull in a china shop in these spaces.
So, if you’re in the market for a smaller TV, you’ve come to the right place. I’m here to guide you through some of the best options available.
1. TCL 50″ Class 5-Series 4K
I recently got the chance to experience the TCL 50″ Class 5-Series 4K, and I must say, it’s like having a mini cinema at home. The clarity and color detail with Dolby Vision HDR are beyond impressive, offering a realistic image that makes movie nights a delight.
The QLED technology brings out over a billion colors with greater accuracy, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
But it’s not just about the visuals. The hands-free voice control is out of this world, I can tell you that much. I can easily manage my home and entertainment without the constant search for the remote. Just a simple sentence, like “Hey Google,” gets things started.
It’s also a breeze to find what I want to watch, with over 700,000 movies and shows organized neatly, making my choices straightforward and quick.
No product is without its drawbacks. I noticed the TV has a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which might not be the best for high-end gaming, but it works well for general use and streaming.
Features:
- Intelligent TV Processing with 4K HDR Processor X1.
- TRILUMINOS Pro for a wider color spectrum.
- Native 120Hz refresh rate with Motionflow XR technology.
- Google TV integration with Google Assistant.
- Support for Dolby Vision & Atmos for enhanced cinematic content.
- Dedicated Game Mode for PlayStation 5.
- Enhanced gaming picture quality features.
- Superior 4K Ultra HD clarity
- Hands-free voice control
- Extensive library of movies and shows
- QLED Technology for vibrant colors
- Easy access and organization of content
- 60 Hz refresh rate
2. SAMSUNG 32-Inch Class QLED 4K
Let me share with you my personal experience with a real gem in the world of small TVs – the Samsung QN32Q60CAFXZA, or the Q60C. This isn’t just any 32-inch TV, it’s one of the rare ones that boast a 4K resolution. I’ve got this beauty in my gaming room, and trust me, the picture quality is unparalleled among its peers.
Yes, it’s a bit pricier than other 32-inch models, but the investment is worth every penny. The combination of a compact screen and high resolution results in an image so sharp, it’s like looking through a window. It might not have all the features of its 65-inch sibling, but it’s got all the core features you need.
The user-friendly 2023 Tizen OS interface is a joy to navigate, and the wide array of streaming apps means you’ll never run out of things to watch. Plus, it’s wall-mountable, making it a versatile choice for any room in the house.
Features:
- Offers vivid, lifelike color at any brightness level
- Quantum Processor Lite with 4K Upscaling.
- Dual LED.
- Quantum HDR.
- Motion Xcelerator.
- Object Tracking Sound Lite.
- Q-Symphony 3.0.
- Offers vivid, lifelike color at any brightness level
- Enhances clarity and depth in every scene
- Provides beautifully balanced colors
- Creates refined picture quality
- Delivers 3D surround sound
- Refresh Rate is 60 Hz
- Limited to 32-inch screen size
3. VIZIO D-Series D24f-J09 24-Inch Smart TV
Having spent some quality time with the VIZIO D-Series D24f-F1, I must say it’s been quite an experience. The clarity and sharpness of the visuals are impressive. The built-in Chromecast and mirroring capabilities made streaming my favorite shows a breeze.
The voice control feature, paired with Google Assistant, was a delightful addition, making it easier to navigate and control the device. However, I did notice that the sound quality could use a bit of improvement. Overall, it’s a decent device for its price range.
Features:
- Built-in Chromecast.
- Mirroring capabilities for mobile devices.
- Access to popular streaming channels.
- Energy Star certified for efficiency.
- Impressive visual clarity
- Easy streaming
- Voice control with Google Assistant
- Sound quality could be better
4. Samsung NU7100 4K Smart TV
Let’s take a trip down memory lane to 2018, when the Samsung NU7100 4K Smart TV first hit the scene. It might not be the newest kid on the block, but it’s still just as impressive as the day it was released. While many TV manufacturers have stopped packing a full suite of features into their 40-inch models, Samsung has kept the bar high. Their excellent picture performance and smart functionality make this TV a perfect fit for smaller living spaces.
The NU7100’s 4K (or Ultra HD) display boasts a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. Now, the 39.5-inch screen might not deliver the same 4K impact as larger TVs, but the level of detail and brightness is second to none.
In terms of picture quality, the Samsung NU7100 is the best small 4K TV out there. It has a solid native contrast ratio, but it could use some more advanced features to enhance its performance in darker rooms, like local dimming.
One downside is its average response time. You might notice some blur behind fast-moving objects. And if you’re not sitting directly in front of the screen, the picture quality takes a hit.
The NU7100 shares the same interface as the Samsung NU8000, minus the Google Assistant voice control. The interface is user-friendly and generally runs smoothly, although there can be some lag when accessing it from within an app. And like all Samsung TVs, it does come with ads that can’t be removed. But all things considered, this TV is a top contender in the small 4K TV category
Features:
- PurColor.
- Motion Rate 120.
- HDR.
- Slim Design.
- Universal Guide.
- Stunning HDR content
- Smooth fast-motion scenes
- Limited viewing angles
5. Hisense ULED Premium U7H QLED
You know, my neighbor recently got the Hisense ULED Premium U7H QLED Series, and they couldn’t stop talking about it. They mentioned how the patented ULED technologies by Hisense enhance the color, contrast, brightness, and motion, giving a unique viewing experience.
The Quantum Dot technology produces colors that are pure, rich, and vibrant. But what really caught their attention was the peak brightness of up to 1000 nits, which is quite impressive.
They also appreciated the Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos sound, which provides a cinematic experience right at home. However, they did point out a minor issue with lip syncing when using a sound bar, but overall, they seemed quite satisfied with their purchase.
Features:
- 4K ULED Technology
- Quantum Dot Color Range
- Peak Brightness of up to 1000 nits
- Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos Sound
- Native Refresh Rate of 120Hz
- Pro Gaming Mode with HDMI 2.1 inputs
- Hands-free Voice Control
- Vibrant Quantum Dot Colors
- Impressive 1000 nits brightness
- Cinematic Dolby Vision & Atmos
- Smooth Refresh Rate
- Advanced Gaming Technology
- Minor lip syncing issues
- Some app region restrictions
6. Sony 43 Inch 4K Ultra HD
I came across numerous mentions of the Sony 43 Inch Ultra HD from the X85K Series in the last month. Many users praised its intelligent TV processing, which delivers a smooth and clear picture, full of rich colors and detailed contrast.
The TRILUMINOS Pro feature was highlighted for reproducing over a billion accurate colors, making the viewing experience closer to real life. The Google TV integration seemed to be a hit, organizing favorite content in one place and supporting streaming from various platforms.
On the gaming front, the TV has exclusive features for the PlayStation 5, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Features:
- Intelligent TV Processing with 4K HDR Processor X1.
- Native 120Hz refresh rate and Motionflow XR technology.
- Wide Spectrum of Colors with TRILUMINOS Pro.
- Google TV with Google Assistant integration.
- Support for Dolby Vision & Atmos for an immersive cinematic experience.
- Dedicated Game Mode with exclusive features for PlayStation 5.
- Enhanced gaming picture quality for a better gaming experience.
- Smooth and clear picture
- Reproduces over a billion colors
- Integrated Google TV
- Might require external sound system
7. Samsung RU7100 Smart
Another classic from the past, the Samsung RU7100 Smart TV from 2018. Just like the NU7100 4K Smart TV we’ve talked about before, this one still holds its own in the current market.
What I love about this Samsung model is its affordability. It’s one of the most budget-friendly 4K TVs that Samsung currently offers. But don’t let its price tag fool you. This TV boasts a solid contrast ratio and a low input lag, which means you’ll get to enjoy a stunning high dynamic range of video. Trust me, your games will look better than ever.
And let’s not forget about its connectivity options. With three HDMI ports and two USB jacks, you’ll have no trouble hooking up all your devices. Plus, it runs on Samsung’s Tizen Smart TV software, so you can easily access and display all your favorite shows.
Now, I personally think the 43-inch display hits the sweet spot. It’s compact enough to fit in most spaces, but still large enough to truly appreciate what 4K content has to offer. So, if you’re a gamer like me looking for a small TV, I’d say the Samsung RU7100 is a pretty solid choice.
Features:
- Procesador 4K UHD.
- 3 HDMI ports, 2 USB ports, and 1 Componente.
- 48.8 x 31.2 x 10.3 inches.
- Wireless, Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI.
- Flat screen with LED technology.
- 4K resolution.
- PurColor technology.
- Dolby Digital Plus audio.
- High-quality 4K UHD display
- Smooth motion with 120 rate
- Multiple connectivity options
- Alexa voice control
- Certified refurbished status
- Limited stand design options
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing a small TV, there’s more to consider than just the size. From resolution and smart features to the type of panel and connectivity options, the choices can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the world of small TVs, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Understanding Your Space and Purpose
Before diving into the technicalities, it’s essential to understand where you’ll place the TV and its primary purpose. As the article mentions, while a larger TV might be ideal for a spacious living room, smaller spaces like kitchens, bedrooms, or game rooms might benefit from a more compact set.
- Space Constraints: Measure the space where you plan to place the TV. This will help you determine the ideal screen size for that area.
- Purpose: Are you a gamer? Do you plan to watch movies or just the news? Identifying the primary use will guide your other choices, like resolution and refresh rate.
Key Features to Consider
Resolution
Television resolution refers to the clarity and sharpness of the images displayed on a TV screen. It’s determined by the number of pixels that can be displayed, both horizontally and vertically. The more pixels, the higher the resolution, resulting in a clearer and more detailed picture.
At the moment, 4K is the most popular option by far. As of 2020, more than 40% of U.S. households have at least one 4K-capable TV, indicating the growing popularity and accessibility of higher resolution televisions.
List of Common TV Resolutions:
- Standard Definition (SD) – 720 x 480 pixels
- High Definition (HD) – 1280 x 720 pixels
- Full High Definition (FHD) – 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Ultra High Definition (UHD or 4K) – 3840 x 2160 pixels
- 8K Resolution – 7680 x 4320 pixels
Smart Features
With the rise of streaming services, having a smart TV can be a significant advantage. Platforms like Roku, Tizen, and Vizio SmartCast offer a plethora of apps and streaming options. For instance, the TCL 43S525 comes with a Roku interface, providing access to hundreds of entertainment channels.
Panel Type and Display Technology
The type of panel and display technology can significantly impact the TV’s performance. For instance, VA panels, like the one in the Samsung QN32Q60AAFXZA, are known for their deep blacks but might not offer the best viewing angles. On the other hand, Quantum Dot technology, as seen in the Samsung Q60C QLED 4K Smart TV, offers vibrant and consistent colors.
Budget and Brand Reliability
While it’s tempting to go for the latest and greatest, sometimes older models, like the Samsung NU7100 4K Smart TV from 2018, can offer excellent value for money. It’s essential to balance your budget with the features you desire.
Brands like Samsung, TCL, and Vizio have made a name for themselves in the TV market. It’s always a good idea to check user reviews and brand reputation before making a purchase.
FAQs
What is the smallest TV that supports 4K?
The smallest 4K TVs typically start at 43 inches. This is because the benefits of 4K resolution become less noticeable on smaller screens due to the pixel density. However, there are a few models available in smaller sizes, such as the Samsung Q60A, which is a 32-inch 4K TV.
Do small 4K TVs have the same features as larger ones?
While the core technology is the same, some features available in larger models might be absent in smaller ones due to size constraints. However, many small 4K TVs still come packed with advanced features.
What is the downside of a 4K TV?
One of the main downsides of 4K TVs is that they require more bandwidth for streaming. Not all content is available in 4K, and the content that is can consume a lot of data, which might be a problem if your internet connection is slow or if you have a data cap.
Additionally, while 4K TVs can upscale lower-resolution content, the quality won’t be as good as native 4K content.
Do all small 4K TVs come with smart features?
While most 4K TVs in 2023 come with smart features, it’s always a good idea to check the specifications to ensure it meets your needs.
What new technology is coming for TVs?
There are several exciting technologies on the horizon for TVs. One of the most talked-about is 8K resolution, which offers four times the number of pixels as 4K. However, much like the early days of 4K, content availability is currently limited.
Other advancements include improvements in display technologies such as OLED and QLED, and the development of MicroLED technology, which promises high brightness levels, infinite contrast ratio, and no risk of burn-in. HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology is also becoming more prevalent, offering better contrast and more vibrant colors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to spruce up a game room, find the perfect TV for your guest room, or fulfill any other need, there’s a wide array of options available. We’ve done the legwork for you, sifting through both new and older TVs, so we hope this guide sets you on the right path. Remember, it’s not always about chasing the latest model.While newer TVs generally come packed with the latest features, don’t discount the classics.
Some models, like the Samsung’s products on our list, truly stand the test of time and continue to deliver exceptional performance. But beyond the specs and features, it’s essential to consider what you’ll be using the TV for. Are you a gamer needing a TV with a low input lag? Or perhaps a movie buff wanting a TV with excellent contrast and color accuracy? Identifying your needs will help you choose the right one.
