Best 40-inch smart TVs 2024: top models for your space

Best 40-inch TVs: Top Picks for 2024
40-inch TV Buying Guide: Features to Consider
Smart TV Features and Connectivity Options
Gaming Performance on 40-inch TVs
Best 40-inch TV Deals and Value Options

Best 40-inch TVs: top picks for 2024

Finding the perfect 40-inch TV can be challenging with so many options available. After extensive research and analysis, we’ve identified the top performers in the UK market for 2024.

Premium pick: LG OLED42C4PUA

The LG OLED42C4PUA stands out as the premium choice in the 40-inch category. While technically 42 inches, this model offers exceptional picture quality with its OLED panel, delivering perfect blacks and vibrant colours. With a 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 support, it’s ideal for both movie enthusiasts and gamers. The TV supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10, ensuring top-tier HDR performance.

Best value: Hisense 43A6KTUK

For those seeking excellent value, the Hisense 43A6KTUK delivers impressive performance at a competitive price point. This 43-inch model offers 4K resolution, HDR support including Dolby Vision, and AI picture processing. The VIDAA smart platform provides access to all major streaming services, making it a compelling choice for everyday viewing.

Best gaming TV: Samsung QN43QN90D

Gamers should consider the Samsung QN43QN90D, which features Mini LED technology and excellent gaming capabilities. With its low input lag and high refresh rate, it’s perfect for next-generation gaming consoles. The TV also offers impressive brightness levels and excellent local dimming performance.

Budget-friendly option: TCL 40S5401AK

The TCL 40S5401AK proves that quality doesn’t have to break the bank. This Full HD model includes HDR support and runs on Android TV, providing access to thousands of apps. While it may lack some premium features, it delivers solid performance for everyday viewing at an affordable price point.

Each of these TVs offers unique advantages depending on your specific needs. The LG OLED42C4PUA excels in picture quality and gaming performance, while the Hisense provides excellent value for money. The Samsung stands out for gaming, and the TCL offers good performance on a budget. Consider your primary use case and budget when making your selection.

These models are available through major UK retailers and online marketplaces, with prices ranging from £200 for budget options to over £1,000 for premium models. They all feature smart TV capabilities and modern connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with current streaming services and devices.

40-inch TV buying guide: features to consider

When shopping for a 40-inch TV in 2024, several key features deserve careful consideration to ensure you make the right choice for your needs and budget. Let’s explore the essential factors that will help you make an informed decision.

Display technology and resolution

The two main display technologies dominating the market are OLED and QLED. OLED panels, found in premium models like the LG OLED42C4, offer perfect blacks and infinite contrast ratios, making them ideal for dark room viewing. QLED technology, featured in models like the Samsung QN43QN90D, provides exceptional brightness and vibrant colors, performing particularly well in bright rooms.

For resolution, 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) has become the standard, offering four times the detail of Full HD. While some budget models still feature 1080p resolution, investing in a 4K TV ensures future-proofing and superior picture quality.

Smart features and connectivity

Modern 40-inch TVs come equipped with various smart platforms and connectivity options:

HDMI ports: Look for at least 3-4 HDMI inputs, with HDMI 2.1 support for gaming
Smart platform: Popular options include LG’s webOS, Samsung’s Tizen, and Google TV
Wi-Fi connectivity: Ensure stable streaming with dual-band Wi-Fi support
Voice control: Integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, or manufacturer-specific assistants

HDR support and picture quality

High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology significantly improves picture quality by offering better contrast and more vibrant colors. When evaluating HDR capabilities, consider:

HDR format support (Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG)
Peak brightness levels for HDR content
Local dimming capabilities for enhanced contrast
Color accuracy and gamut coverage

Gaming features

For gamers, specific features can significantly enhance the gaming experience. According to What Hi-Fi?, key gaming features to look for include:

Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Low input lag (under 20ms for competitive gaming)
120Hz refresh rate capability

Sound quality considerations

While built-in speakers have improved over the years, they typically remain a weak point for slim modern TVs. Consider:

Built-in speaker power and quality
Support for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X
Audio output options for connecting external speakers or soundbars
eARC support for high-quality audio passthrough

Budget and value considerations

40-inch TVs are available across various price points, from budget-friendly options under £300 to premium models exceeding £1,000. Consider your budget alongside features that matter most to you, whether that’s superior picture quality, gaming capabilities, or smart features. According to RTINGS, mid-range models often offer the best balance of features and value for most users.

Smart TV features and connectivity: what to look for in a 40-inch TV

Modern connectivity options

In 2024, smart TV capabilities have become essential features for 40-inch TVs. The latest models offer comprehensive connectivity options and streaming capabilities that enhance the overall viewing experience. Leading manufacturers have developed sophisticated smart platforms that provide seamless access to content and device integration.

Most modern 40-inch smart TVs come equipped with multiple HDMI ports, with premium models like the LG OLED42C4PUA featuring four HDMI 2.1 ports that support advanced features such as 4K/120Hz gaming and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). This level of connectivity ensures compatibility with the latest gaming consoles and home theatre equipment.

Smart platforms and operating systems

Different manufacturers utilize various smart TV platforms, each with its unique features and benefits. According to What Hi-Fi?, these are the leading platforms:

LG webOS: Known for its intuitive interface and smooth navigation
Samsung Tizen: Offers extensive app support and seamless integration with smartphones
Google TV: Provides access to the Google Play Store and built-in Chromecast functionality
VIDAA U: Hisense’s platform, offering straightforward navigation and major streaming apps

Streaming capabilities and apps

Modern 40-inch smart TVs provide access to an extensive range of streaming services and apps. The best models, as highlighted by TechRadar, offer support for:

Popular streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+)
UK-specific apps (BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4)
Music streaming services (Spotify, Apple Music)
Voice control capabilities through built-in assistants

Additional smart features

Beyond basic streaming capabilities, modern 40-inch TVs incorporate several advanced smart features. According to RTINGS, key features to look for include:

Screen mirroring capabilities (AirPlay 2, Chromecast)
Voice control integration (Google Assistant, Alexa)
Smart home device integration
Automatic content recognition
Multi-view capabilities for watching multiple sources simultaneously

When selecting a 40-inch smart TV, it’s crucial to consider not only the current smart features but also the manufacturer’s track record for software updates and long-term support. This ensures your TV will continue to receive new features and security updates throughout its lifespan.

Gaming performance on 40-inch TVs

When it comes to gaming performance, modern 40-inch TVs have made significant strides in delivering an immersive gaming experience. Several key features make certain models stand out for gaming enthusiasts.

Key gaming features to consider

The latest 40-inch TVs offer impressive gaming capabilities, with models like the LG OLED42C4PUA leading the pack with features specifically designed for gamers. Here are the essential gaming features to look for:

HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K/120Hz gaming
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Low input lag (under 15ms)
Quick response times for smooth motion

Top gaming performers

Among the current lineup of 40-inch TVs, several models excel in gaming performance. The LG OLED42C4PUA stands out with its impressive 120Hz refresh rate and support for both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync technologies. This model offers exceptional gaming performance with near-instantaneous response times and support for 4K/144Hz PC gaming, making it ideal for both console and PC gamers. According to RTINGS, it delivers some of the best gaming features available in this size category.

Budget gaming options

For gamers on a budget, the Hisense 43A6KTUK offers surprisingly good gaming performance at a more affordable price point. While it may not match the premium features of high-end models, it provides decent response times and supports basic gaming features that make it suitable for casual gaming sessions. What Hi-Fi reports that it delivers good value for money while maintaining respectable gaming performance.

Gaming picture quality

Picture quality during gaming is crucial, and modern 40-inch TVs have made significant improvements in this area. The Samsung QN90D series, for instance, offers excellent HDR gaming performance with its mini-LED technology, providing bright highlights and deep blacks that enhance gaming visuals. TechRadar’s analysis shows that these newer models handle motion particularly well during fast-paced gaming sequences.

When selecting a 40-inch TV for gaming, it’s important to consider both your gaming needs and budget. While premium models offer the best features and performance, mid-range options can still provide an enjoyable gaming experience with good picture quality and reasonable response times.

Best 40-inch TV deals and value options

When looking for the best value in 40-inch TVs, several models stand out for their excellent price-to-performance ratio in 2024. Here’s a detailed look at the most budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality.

Top budget-friendly picks

The Hisense 43A6KTUK leads the pack as one of the best value options, priced at around £229. This model offers impressive features including 4K resolution, HDR support with Dolby Vision, and AI picture processing capabilities. Despite its affordable price point, it delivers surprisingly good colour accuracy and contrast levels, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Another notable value option is the TCL 40S5401AK, which typically retails for £250-£350. This model offers Full HD resolution, HDR10 support, and runs on the Android TV platform, providing access to a wide range of streaming services and apps. The integration of Google Assistant adds convenient voice control functionality.

Mid-range value options

In the mid-range segment, the Samsung UE40 series provides excellent value for money at around £300-£400. These models feature Full HD resolution, HDR10 support with micro-dimming zones, and Samsung’s reliable Tizen OS smart platform. The picture quality and smart features make it a worthy investment for those with a slightly higher budget.

Micro-dimming technology for enhanced contrast
Access to popular streaming apps
Reliable build quality and brand support

Where to find the best deals

The best TV deals can often be found during major retail events and seasonal sales. Major retailers like Argos, Currys, and Amazon regularly offer significant discounts on 40-inch TVs. It’s worth monitoring these retailers’ websites and signing up for price alerts, especially during Black Friday and post-Christmas sales periods.

For those seeking premium features at a more accessible price point, the previous year’s models often represent excellent value. For instance, the LG 42OLEDC3, while technically a 42-inch model, can sometimes be found at competitive prices despite its OLED technology and advanced gaming features. These slightly older models often receive substantial discounts while still offering modern features and reliable performance.

When considering value options, it’s essential to look beyond the initial price tag. Factors such as energy efficiency, warranty coverage, and long-term reliability should all play a role in determining the true value of your purchase. According to Which?, many budget-friendly models now offer features previously found only in premium TVs, making this an excellent time to find a high-quality 40-inch TV at an attractive price point.

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