Best LED LCD TVs: It’s no secret that LED TVs are the most popular kind of HDTV on the market today. The name “LED TV” is technically a misnomer formed by marketing and convenience, since it refers to an LCD TV with an LED backlight to show a picture. LED TVs have grown in popularity owing to their affordability, a wide range of screen sizes, low energy usage, and compatibility with a wide range of content formats.
The widespread usage of “Quantum Dot” technology is the most recent advancement in this area. While quantum dots may seem like something out of a science fiction television show, they are quite real and may be found in high-end LED TVs. Quantum dots’ fundamental physics centres on their behaviour when stimulated by certain frequencies; LED TVs with quantum dots to use a blue LED backlight, which “excites” quantum dots into producing red and green tones. In a word, these TVs are capable of displaying brighter, more realistic, and saturated colors, resulting in a more appealing picture overall. Check out our HDTV buyer’s guide if you want to conduct further study.
LED backlighting is available in two different layouts: full array and edge-lit. The LED backlight is positioned immediately below the LCD screen in full-array backlighting. In higher-spec versions, this is often coupled with a function known as “local dimming,” which may selectively dim or turn off LEDs based on the desired picture to achieve deeper black levels where they are required. Edge-lit LED backlighting relocates the LEDs to the panel’s edges, depending instead on specific light guides to illuminate the display.
Full-array LED TVs with local dimming regularly beat edge-lit equivalents in screen uniformity, black level measures, and contrast with both normal and HDR content, according to our study. These LED TVs, when coupled with quantum dot technology, are capable of producing an excellent image while maintaining a fair cost-to-screen-size ratio. We’ve put together a list of the best LED LCD TVs for 2021.
The best-LED LCD TVs for 2021 are mentioned below-
Vizio PX65-G1 65″ Quantum 4K HDR TV
Vizio is betting big on quantum dot tech, with most of its models getting the technology that other manufacturers save for their more expensive sets. As a result, the legendary P-Series has been divided into two distinct lines. The previous P-Series (no suffix) has been renamed the P-Series Quantum, after the top-of-the-line model from last year. The former P-Series Quantum has been renamed the P-Series Quantum X, and it is now Vizio’s new flagship television. Vizio currently sells this model in 65-inch and 75-inch screen sizes, in addition to numerous technological improvements.
The P-Series Quantum X has the same bezel-less design as the model it replaces, with a minimalist aesthetic. It’s a style that’s been here for a while yet still manages to appear both contemporary and inconspicuous. 5 HDMI ports, a single common component/composite video input, one USB port, TOSLINK digital audio out, single analog audio out, and an Ethernet port remain unchanged from last year. After being restored for the 2018 model, the cable/antenna input is thankfully still there. While HDMI 1 supports ARC (but not eARC), HDMI 5 is a specialized gaming input that forgoes HDR in favor of reduced input latency.
This time around, the major improvements are under the cover, so to speak. Last year’s P-Series Quantum was one of the best in terms of overall image quality, and we couldn’t find anything wrong with its class-leading dark depths and brilliant colors. Vizio has decided to update the set nonetheless, increasing the number of local dimming zones on the backlight from 192 to 384 on the 65-inch model. The P-Series Quantum X excels with HDR content because of its bright and effective backlight. The main disadvantage (like with many LED LCD TVs) is the limited viewing angle; despite having an “Enhanced Viewing Angle” option, the P-Series Quantum X is best watched straight ahead. In any event, this is one of the few TVs that will look just as wonderful in your house as it does in the shop.
SmartCast is another holdover; anybody who has used a Vizio smart TV in the past several years should be acquainted with it. Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube, and a slew of other services are pre-installed, so there’s no need to download anything else. It’s fantastic that so many applications are available, especially considering there’s currently no way to add more. Instead, the P-Series Quantum X has a built-in Chromecast, which allows you to stream video from your phone or computer to the TV if it isn’t covered by the built-in applications. With the addition of Apple AirPlay in a recent firmware upgrade, the device now covers both ends of the mobile streaming spectrum. While the built-in smart TV interface is ultimately the limiting factor, we like Vizio’s efforts to come up with innovative alternatives for customers who need more freedom.
Despite the smart TV issues, we have no reservations about crowning the P-Series Quantum X as the best HDTV for 2021. Vizio’s efforts pay off big time with a TV that can compete with the best and hold its own, even though the firm is a relative newbie to quantum dot technology. The true allure is in the bargain factor; all of the TVs with somewhat higher image quality cost hundreds, if not thousands, more. The P-Series Quantum X is outstanding; the only issue now is how Vizio will continue to develop.
Samsung QN65Q70A 65-Inch QLED 4K TV
Anyone except the most research-obsessed buyer will be confused by the vast diversity of Samsung’s current HDTV lineup: Is the AU8000 a superior model to the Q70? What is Ultra High Definition TV (UHDTV) and how does it compare to QLED? What’s more important, which choice is the best?
Let’s start with the most significant distinction between Samsung’s TV models. All of the devices in the “UHD TV” series are conventional LED LCD TVs that have been on the market for a few decades. To substantially enhance image quality, Samsung’s higher-end QLED series TVs add a quantum dot layer to the conventional LED LCD TV components. This innovation in TV technology is one of our favorites because it creates a visually appealing appearance in which the colors “jump” off the screen. The QLED 4K TV range from Samsung begins with the Q60 and ends with the flagship (and very costly) Q90; we tested the latter and were pleased with its overall performance, design, and ability to connect into a smart home network. While none of the options is terrible, we considered the Q70 to be the “sweet spot” of the range.
Surprisingly, Samsung has stripped the midrange Q70 model of many distinctive characteristics (which leaves us to fear that it was a choice that’s completely internal to the company). The full-array backlight and local dimming have been replaced with an edge-lit technology that lacks any kind of local dimming. However, the Q80 and Q85 models, which sit above the Q70, now use IPS panels; although this kind of display is renowned for its broad viewing angles, black levels suffer as a consequence. Despite the absence of a full-array backlight and local dimming, the VA panel on the Q70 can produce deep black depths at the cost of a restricted viewing angle. We think this is a good compromise, particularly considering you’ll have to upgrade to the top Q90 to get a VA panel back. The Q70, unlike OLED TVs, has no danger of burn-in, making it ideal for applications that need static pictures to be shown for extended periods (news stations, sports, video games). The Q70 will perform effectively in situations with a lot of ambient or direct light, thanks to its large light output.
The Q70, like other current Samsung TVs, shines in terms of versatility. There are four HDMI ports (#3 supports ARC/eARC), a cable/antenna input, and two USB connections; older analog devices will need a separate converter box or an AV receiver, in line with current trends. The Q70 can connect to the internet through Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and the built-in Tizen smart TV suite includes all of the most popular streaming applications, with the ability to install more as required. The ARC-compatible HDMI connection may be used to send sound to other devices, and there is also a single optical audio output and a normal 3.5mm audio connector. HDMI 2.1 is already available, although only via one port (HDMI 4). Gamers will like the availability of FreeSync Variable Refresh Rate. Because the panel’s inherent refresh rate is a steady 120 Hz, the Q70 can also offer correct cadence with 24p movie content.
The Q70’s most compelling feature is its exceptional value. While it isn’t the cheapest TV on the market, trying to locate a better performance in terms of image quality can cost you a significant amount of money – often over a thousand dollars. We believe that Samsung’s Q70 is one of the best-rounded choices on the market for most individuals in the market for a new TV, with no obvious flaws in the whole package.
TCL 65” Class 6-Series 4K UHD Mini-LED LCD TV
With its flagship 6-Series, TCL was one of the industry’s standouts last year, going toe-to-toe with some of the finest performances on the market at a price that no other manufacturer could hope to match. Despite its age, the newest R635 is still competitive, demonstrating how far TCL was ahead of the competition, to begin with. It’s one of the most stunning HDTV choices available in 2021, especially when combined with its Roku interface.
The design of the R635 has been improved, with a thinner bezel that fits well with contemporary design trends that emphasize simplicity. The stand has also been updated, with slanted legs that take up less overall area. Although HDMI 4 now supports ARC/eARC, the R635 still lacks HDMI 2.1 compatibility. Analog video connection is restricted to composite video via a 3.5mm port (which needs a breakout cable to work) and a cable/antenna input, as previously. Because component video isn’t supported, you’ll need to use a converter with older devices. The R625 has a TOSLINK digital audio output as well as a conventional 3.5mm audio output port if your setup doesn’t contain an ARC-capable audio device.
TCL’s “6-Series” models are known for their excellent image quality, regardless of budget, and the R635 does not disappoint. The R635 attempts to improve on last year’s model in minor but significant ways; it retains the quantum dot technology from the previous generation while increasing the native refresh rate to 120 Hz. TCL’s flagship model can now keep up with fast-paced sports action thanks to the latter. The R635 offers a picture that simply cannot be duplicated in this price range, thanks to its excellent black levels and strong brightness. We recommend spending the money you save by selecting the R635 over a more costly set in a professional calibration to get the greatest image quality possible.
The R635’s smart TV interface, right down to the remote control, is still powered by Roku. The addition of Roku not only gives the R635 one of the most user-friendly streaming platforms on the market today, but it also gives it access to the regular upgrades and never-ending content collection that come with every Roku add-on device. The remote has fast-access buttons for Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, and Sling TV, as well as a built-in microphone for voice control.
Even before considering pricing, the R635 is one of the most remarkable performances on the market; if you’re looking for value, the R635 is unbeatable. The R635 is a no-brainer for anybody looking for a new TV, regardless of price, thanks to one of the finest smart TV interface choices on the market today.
Sony Bravia XR65X90J 65-Inch LED LCD TV
Sony’s flagship LED LCD X90J makes a comeback in 2021, featuring excellent image quality and a stylish design. In an unexpected twist, the firm has retained last year’s X900H as a more inexpensive option, insisting that the new model exists to complement rather than replace the X90J in the model range. In any event, we’re praising the X90J for many of the same qualities that the X900H did; the fact that the new model is also a great bargain is a nice surprise that completes one of the best HDTVs on the market today.
Sony seems to have decided on a design theme after years of experimentation. The X90J looks very similar to the X900H from last year, except for the rear of the TV, and anybody might be excused for mixing the two. In any case, the X900H was already a pretty appealing set, and the new X90J could do a lot worse than reusing it. The connectivity remains largely identical, with four HDMI connections (HDMI 3 supports ARC/eARC) and two USB inputs (one of which is USB 3.0). HDMI 2.1 compatibility is oddly restricted to ports 3 and 4. If you have numerous devices to connect, the fact that HDMI 3 is the designated ARC/eARC port may cause a bottleneck. A 3.5mm composite video breakout adapter and a single cable/antenna input are required for analogue video connection. A remote IR input is also available on the X90J, which is useful for bespoke setups. The HDMI ARC/eARC connector, as well as a TOSLINK audio output and a single 3.5mm analogue audio jack, are all used for audio. Finally, if you want to hard-wire your TV to your network, a LAN/Ethernet connection is available.
We have no concerns about the picture quality, which is essentially unaltered from the X900H. The X90J has excellent black levels, and it’s one of the most colour-accurate TVs on the market right now – right out of the box. The X90J’s motion handling skills are class-leading, due to Sony’s image processing expertise, and it can show 24p content smoothly even if the feed is 60p or 60i. However, owing to technological constraints, there are still some critics. The local dimming function does an excellent job of delivering deep blacks without blooming or crushing details, but OLED TVs do much better. Due to the intrinsic structure of VA LCD screens, viewing angles remain rather limited. While it may be difficult to justify an upgrade if you currently own the X900H, anybody moving from a 2017 or earlier TV will have a difficult time finding an LED LCD TV with a picture as excellent.
The X90J’s smart TV interface is one area where it outperforms the X900H. The new operating system, Google TV, replaces Android TV, and it’s not simply a rebranding of the previous system. Many new features seem to connect the X90J with your other smart devices, as well as greater support for streaming live video. The X90J comes pre-loaded with all of the favorites, including Netflix, Amazon Video, Disney Plus, and Hulu, and the sheer number and diversity of applications remain intact. The remote also has a built-in microphone for voice control, which can be utilized for Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa since the X90J runs Google TV natively. The X90J is one of the finest TVs for streaming content when it comes to smart TV interfaces.
The X90J is more expensive than its immediate rivals, but the additional cash gets you noticeably better picture quality because of Sony’s famous image processing skills. We’ll even go so far as to claim that the X90J offers excellent value for money; although it’s not cheap, it avoids the exorbitant costs that OLED TVs and Samsung’s top QLED sets require. The Sony X90J is one of our top choices for the Best HDTVs since it’s difficult to identify flaws with it.