Best 55-Inch TV: Elevate Your Viewing Experience

In the realm of selecting the perfect television, an art form unfolds. One seeks a screen large enough for clarity but not so colossal as to engulf the space. The 55-inch screen emerges as the ideal choice for cozier rooms. To assist in your quest for the finest 55-inch TV for your bedroom or dormitory in 2023, we present a curated list below.

Most contemporary 55-inch TVs arrive adorned with a plethora of features, embracing the realm of smart TVs. This convergence grants access to streaming treasures like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix, Disney Plus, and more. Diving deeper into the high-end offerings reveals a trove of luxuries: full-array local dimming, OLED displays, a zippy 120Hz refresh rate, 4K UHD resolution, high dynamic range, a cornucopia of HDMI ports, and even deluxe gaming amenities, including variable refresh rates for pairing with PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Herein lies our compendium of preferred 55-inch TVs.

At CNET, TV evaluations are conducted in a cutting-edge testing laboratory, replete with specialized equipment. This two-decade TV review veteran assesses hundreds of metrics across gaming, home theater, and well-lit room scenarios. This profound experience culminates in not just the crowning of the paramount 55-inch TV but also in identifying the optimal choice within your budget.

What is the top 55-inch TV at this moment?

The TCL 6-Series Roku TV ascends to the pinnacle of our list of superior TVs, and for multifarious reasons. It bestows outstanding picture quality, boasts an economical price tag, and revels in the Roku ecosystem, which stands tall as the premier smart TV system. Moreover, it caters to gaming enthusiasts with 4K/120Hz input and a variable refresh rate, elevating the console experience for PS5 and Xbox Series X users. When inquired by friends for TV counsel spanning 55 to 85 inches, budget constraints notwithstanding, the answer unfailingly revolves around the TCL 6-Series.

Yet, the realm teems with other commendable options. Though the 6-Series holds sway as the current frontrunner for most, individual proclivities and financial considerations may steer one toward alternatives.

Best 55-inch TVs in 2023

TCL 6-Series Roku TV

• Superlative 55-inch TV;
• Year: 2022;
• Sizes: 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-inch;
• TV Technology: QLED with Mini-LED;
• Smart TV: Yes (Roku TV);
• Resolution: 4K;
• HDMI Ports: 4.

For half a decade, the TCL 6-Series has reigned supreme as the epitome of value in the TV domain, and its latest iteration, known as the R655 series, maintains this illustrious tradition. A stellar visual experience unfolds courtesy of mini-LED technology and impeccably implemented full-array local dimming, effortlessly outshining most competitors in this price bracket. Notable enhancements grace this version, including augmented gaming features and a novel central stand, which can be elevated to accommodate a soundbar. The Roku TV operating system, a perennial favorite, guides the user experience.

Pros:

• Priced affordably;
• Superlative image quality across the board;
• Intuitive Roku smart TV platform;
• Revamped design with a central stand.

Cons:

• Competing mini-LED TVs may attain greater brightness

Note that in addition to the R635, which this TV replaces, other versions of the 6-Series were released in 2021 and remain available. The R646 series opts for the Google TV operating system but shares similar specifications with the R655 models scrutinized here. Meanwhile, the R648 series boasts 8K resolution and commands a significantly higher price point.

LG OLED C2

Premier 55-inch high-end TV

The C2 unfurls a tapestry of superior visual quality, albeit at a price that could be deemed substantial but not extravagant. It surpasses all non-OLED contenders with its peerless black levels, unrivaled contrast, and impeccable off-angle viewing. Gaming aficionados will find much to savor, as it harmonizes seamlessly with Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, or both. The C2 graces the market in various sizes, though the larger variants tend to command a heftier price.

Furthermore, the C2 stands as one of the featherweights of the TV realm, thanks to its carbon-fiber construction. The 55-inch rendition, with its stand, barely tips the scales at 35 pounds, a notable reduction compared to the 51 pounds of the 55-inch C1 from 2021.

Pros:

• Unmatched picture quality among non-OLED TVs;
• Superb contrast and off-angle image performance;
• Superlative gaming features;
• Sleek design with an ultralight, slender profile.

Cons:

• Commands a premium price;
• Marginal improvements in picture quality compared to the 2021 C1.

The C1 was an exceptional TV, akin in image quality and features to the C2. A 2023 variant, the LG C3, has undergone review, but the C2 presently garners our recommendation. Opting for last year’s LG OLED model offers savings of a few hundred dollars, as the two TVs appear virtually indistinguishable in terms of features, design, and image quality. The C2 is expected to sell briskly through the summer and into the autumn TV shopping season, while the C3 may witness a price dip. For those seeking a high-end TV right away, the C2 is the choice to seize.

Samsung QN90B

High-end 55-inch TV sans OLED

• Sizes: 43-, 50-, 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-inch;
• TV Technology: QLED with Mini-LED;
• Smart TV: Yes (Tizen);
• Resolution: 4K;
• HDMI Ports: 4.

In pursuit of a high-end TV that embodies spectacular visual quality without venturing into OLED territory, the Samsung QN90B beckons as the preeminent option. This TV marries QLED technology with mini-LED enhancement, yielding a luminous display surpassing conventional OLED counterparts. While OLED’s unparalleled contrast prevails in side-by-side assessments, the QN90B’s QLED screen advances closer than ever before.

Pros:

• Best-in-class picture quality among non-OLED TVs;
• Remarkable brightness with minimal blooming;
• Stylish design, replete with features.

Cons:

• Comes with a premium price tag;
• Slightly trails OLED in terms of contrast, off-angle performance, and uniformity.

Samsung offers an array of QLED TVs, with the QN90B standing tall among its high-end offerings, save for those with 8K resolution. This model hails from 2022, yet its 2023 counterpart, the QN90C, mirrors its feature set. Though we haven’t subjected it to scrutiny, it’s expected to deliver akin picture quality. Be forewarned, however, that it bears a heftier price tag.

TCL 4-Series

Top Pick for Affordable 55-inch Smart TV

• Available Sizes: 43-, 50-, 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-inch;
• TV Technology: LED;
• Smart TV: Yes (Roku TV);
• Resolution: 4K;
• HDMI Ports: 3.

The TCL 4-Series Roku TV, though slightly trailing the Vizio V-Series in our budget TV evaluation, offers a picture quality that leaves only subtle disparities between the two. To discern these distinctions, one would need a side-by-side comparison. Noteworthy distinctions include the absence of Dolby Vision, Bluetooth connectivity, and AMD FreeSync with a variable refresh rate, features present in the Vizio V-Series.

Pros:

• Affordable price point;
• Impressive Roku Smart TV system;
• Built-in Roku eliminates the need for an external streaming device.

Cons:

• Image quality and features lag behind some entry-level TVs

Notably, the TCL 4-Series excels with its integrated Roku Smart TV system, rendering it a superb choice for those seeking a comprehensive smart TV solution without the need for additional external streaming devices. It’s worth mentioning that TCL has maintained a consistent image quality and feature set in the 4-Series over the past few years, with recent additions including larger screen sizes, including an 85-inch variant.

Hisense U8H

Although the TCL 6-Series slightly outshone it in our side-by-side assessment, this Hisense model holds its ground. Its stellar image quality is fortified by unparalleled brightness, elevating its performance in well-lit environments and enhancing the visual appeal of HDR content. It outshines the TCL in terms of brightness and contrast, although the TCL’s marginally more accurate image provides it with an overall edge. Unlike the TCL, the Hisense employs Google TV and includes an ATSC 3.0 tuner. In truth, either choice would serve you well.

Pros:

• Relatively budget-friendly;
• Exceptional image quality across the board;
• Unrivaled brightness for well-lit spaces;
• Competent Google TV system.

Cons:

• Slightly less refined image compared to select competitors;
• “Theater” picture modes activate motion smoothing by default.

This model is from 2022, and while the 2023 U8K series appears quite similar, with the addition of a 75-inch option, a detailed review is pending. It currently commands a price premium over the U8H.

Samsung Q60B

• Available Sizes: 43-, 50-, 55-, 60-, 65-, 70-, 75-, 85-inch;
• TV Technology: QLED;
• Smart TV: Yes (Tizen);
• Resolution: 4K;
• HDMI Ports: 3.

Samsung stands as the titan in the television market, and one of its crowd-pleasers is the Q60 series. Distinguished by its sleek QLED screen design, it distinguishes itself amidst the televisual landscape. While ultrathin OLED models exude a sleeker profile, the Q60 series brims with enhanced features, image quality, and an expanded range of sizes in comparison to contenders like the TCL 4-Series and Sony X80K. Although all TVs herein present exceptional value, if a Samsung TV is your desire, and the QN90B resides beyond budgetary reach, the Q60B stands as an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Sleek design complemented by a superb remote;
• Bright imagery accompanied by robust contrast;
• Informative gaming status screen.

Cons:

• Pricier than some competing TVs with superior image quality;
• Cluttered smart TV menus.

This model hails from 2022, and the 2023 version, the Q60C, retains a similar feature set, design, and pricing. Although a comprehensive review is pending, it’s anticipated to deliver comparable image quality.

Roku Plus Series

The Roku Plus Series enters the midrange TV competition in 2023, incorporating several notable upgrades, including QLED technology and full-array local dimming. These enhancements elevate its image quality beyond that of the TCL 4-Series. However, it lags behind the Vizio MQX due to its absence of 120Hz support for gaming and a slightly inferior overall picture quality. If these additional features hold appeal, the Vizio MQX is worth the investment. Nonetheless, the Roku Plus Series remains an excellent value proposition.

Pros:

• Economical pricing;
• Strong image quality enhanced by local dimming;
• Exceptional Roku Smart TV platform.

Cons:

• Lacks 120Hz refresh rate and other gaming enhancements;
• Not as luminous as certain similarly priced TVs.

Notably, this marks Roku’s maiden voyage under its own brand, eschewing partnership with manufacturers like TCL, Sharp, Pioneer, or Hisense. A stripped-down variant, the Roku Select Series, is also available, omitting some features and lacking local dimming.

Vizio V-Series

• Available Sizes: 43-, 50-, 55-, 60-, 65-, 70-, 75-, 85-inch;
• TV Technology: QLED;
• Smart TV: Yes (Tizen);
• Resolution: 4K;
• HDMI Ports: 3.

In a head-to-head comparison of the finest budget TVs, the Vizio V-Series reigned supreme in picture quality. It offered the most balanced and precise visuals in our evaluations. The Vizio doesn’t stop at image quality; it bundles useful extras such as Dolby Vision support, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth compatibility, and a variable refresh rate, enhancing the potential for seamless gaming. However, the Achilles’ heel lies in its smart TV platform, Vizio SmartCast. It’s crowded, sluggish, and marred by ads promoting platforms like Tubi and Kidoodle TV. Even when factoring in the cost of a new streaming device, the V-Series stands tall as the premier entry-level TV in our testing.

Pros:

• Robust image quality for an entry-level TV;
• Abundance of features, including VRR and Wi-Fi 6E.

Cons:

• Lackluster built-in smart TV system.

At present, Vizio has not unveiled a 2023 iteration of the V-Series.

Other TVs We’ve Tested

Sony KD-X80K Series:

Sony, a renowned brand known for its higher-end TVs like the X90J, didn’t make the cut with its entry-level 2022 model, the X80K. Priced similarly to the TCL 6-Series and Samsung Q60 TVs, it trailed in picture quality with lighter black levels and contrast. While it’s not a subpar TV, and its Google smart TV system, color accuracy, and connectivity earned plaudits, there are superior options in its price range

Amazon Fire TV 4-Series:

Part of Amazon’s extensive Fire TV lineup, the 4-Series embodies the typical traits of this breed, offering modest image quality and a smart TV system that lags behind Roku and Google TV. If you harbor a penchant for Alexa voice control or encounter this TV at an exceptionally low price, it might warrant consideration. Otherwise, the TCL 4-Series eclipses it in performance.

CNET’s TV Testing Methodology

CNET’s TV reviews adhere to a rigorous, impartial evaluation process honed over nearly two decades of scrutinizing TVs. Their dedicated TV test laboratory is equipped with specialized tools to measure light and color, including a Konica Minolta CS-2000 spectroradiometer, a Murideo Sig-G 4K HDR signal generator, and an AVPro Connect 8×8 4K HDR distribution matrix. The evaluations rely on Portrait Displays CalMan Ultimate software for comprehensive TV assessment. In every CNET TV review, a minimum of three analogous TVs are juxtaposed in diverse lighting conditions, engaging various media types, including movies, TV series, and games, across an array of evaluation categories spanning color rendition, video processing, gaming performance, and HDR capabilities. The reviews encompass design, features, smart TV functionality, HDMI compatibility, and various other facets critical to the consumer’s TV experience.

Brightness performance plays a pivotal role in image quality evaluations. Here’s a comparative brightness in nits for select TVs featured above.

Discover the Illumination Levels of TVs

In the realm of television displays, brightness plays a crucial role in the viewing experience. Here, we unveil the light output, measured in nits, for various TVs across different modes:

Samsung QN65Q90B

• Brightest mode (HDR): 3,316 nits;
• Accurate mode (HDR): 1,981 nits;
• Brightest mode (SDR): 2,625 nits;
• Accurate mode (SDR): 974 nits.

Hisense U8H

• Brightest mode (HDR): 1,867 nits;
• Accurate mode (HDR): 1,867 nits;
• Brightest mode (SDR): 1,605 nits;
• Accurate mode (SDR): 1,605 nits.

TCL 65R655

• Brightest mode (HDR): 1,387 nits;
• Accurate mode (HDR): 1,194 nits;
• Brightest mode (SDR): 1,292 nits;
• Accurate mode (SDR): 624 nits.

Vizio M65QXM-K03

• Brightest mode (HDR): 939 nits;
• Accurate mode (HDR): 742 nits;
• Brightest mode (SDR): 958 nits;
• Accurate mode (SDR): 608 nits.

LG OLED65C2

• Brightest mode (HDR): 812 nits;
• Accurate mode (HDR): 759 nits;
• Brightest mode (SDR): 413 nits;
• Accurate mode (SDR): 389 nits.

Roku TV Plus (65-inch)

• Brightest mode (HDR): 514 nits;
• Accurate mode (HDR): 455 nits;
• Brightest mode (SDR): 579 nits;
• Accurate mode (SDR): 404 nits.

Choosing the Ideal TV: A Comprehensive Guide

Amidst the plethora of television options available today, navigating the intricacies of television technology can be an arduous task. This concise guide serves as a beacon, illuminating the path through the labyrinth of technical jargon and specifications.

Price Consideration

TVs encompass a broad price spectrum, ranging from affordable to premium. Smaller screens tend to be more budget-friendly, while renowned brands often command a premium. Higher expenditure can translate into superior image quality. Most entry-level TVs deliver satisfactory picture quality, but longevity may justify investing in a higher-tier model. Savvy shoppers often seize the opportunity to purchase in the fall, benefiting from lower prices.

Screen Size Wisdom

In the realm of television screens, bigger frequently equates to better. For bedrooms, a minimum screen size of 43 inches suffices, whereas living rooms or primary TVs should gravitate toward at least 55 inches. In fact, 65 inches or larger is optimal. In the realm of screen size, maximizing your investment results in a more immersive viewing experience. Regret for not opting for a larger TV outweighs complaints of an overly spacious screen.

Essential Features

Among entry-level TVs, the smart TV system takes center stage. In the midrange segment, features such as full-array local dimming, mini-LED, and a 120Hz refresh rate elevate the viewing experience. High-end TVs often embrace OLED technology, representing the pinnacle of display excellence.

FAQ

In this article:

• What is the best 55-inch TV right now?;
• Best 55-inch TVs in 2023 Other TVs we’ve tested How does CNET test TVs?;
• Light Output in Nits How to choose a TV 55-inch TV FAQs;
• CNET TV Coverage.