The LG C3 is one of the best TVs you can buy, and the only reason it’s not on our list is because it’s actually 42 inches. The C3 is a bit of a rarity, being the first 42-inch OLED TV. The panel isn’t quite as bright as some of the rival OLED sets from other brands, but it’s stunning for movies and gaming. Although most manufacturers and buyers focus on larger TVs, there's still a lot of interest in smaller models for people looking for the best 40-inch smartTV. There aren't as many options in this size as in the larger ones,but some premium models and cheaper TVs are still available. It's easier to look for the best42 or best 43-inch 4kTVs than for the best40-inch TVs, as the formersaremuch more common, so you'll have more choice if you can fit a 42 or 43-inch model in your entertainment center. There are also some 42-inch OLEDs coming out, which will further expand the selection in that size category. While it probably wouldn’t be fair to say that LG has neglected its C series models this year, it does seem as if the attention lavished on the G3– the world’s first MLA OLED TV– has left the C3 in the shadows somewhat, with little to no hardware upgrades.

Our testing measures contrast and maximum brightness, as well as lag time. Using a Leo Bodnar Video Signal Input Lag Tester to test video signal delay, we time how long it takes for content to travel from the original video source to the screen, measured to the millisecond. Shorter response times equate with faster gaming performance, letting us objectively know which TVs are better for gaming. Other useful connections include optical and stereo outputs, which can be used in lieu of HDMI ARC to connect legacy audio equipment. Headphone outputs are still fairly common, too, though Bluetooth is also supported by most TVs now and some models now feature the latter but not the former. The Dolby MS12 audio technology ensures that the sound quality matches the exceptional visuals. The audio is clear and immersive whether you’re attending virtual meetings or enjoying music during your work breaks. Additionally, the TV supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair it with wireless headphones or speakers without hassle.This question is pretty much moot now, as the vast majority of TVs are now 4K. It's actually rather hard to find Full HD (1080p) models, even at relatively small sizes. The Hisense 43E7HQTUK QLED Gaming Series 43-inch 4K UHD Dolby Vision HDR Smart TV is a top-of-the-line television with stunning picture quality. Its features are ideal for gamers and movie enthusiasts alike. This TV offers a sleek design and advanced features that will impress. The Samsung UE43TU7020 is a 43-inch Ultra HD Smart 4K HDR TV that delivers stunning picture quality and a range of advanced features. The TV boasts a sleek design and innovative technology that ensures an immersive viewing experience. High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology enhances the contrast and colors of the picture, resulting in a more lifelike image. Look for a TV with HDR10 or HDR10+ for the best HDR experience. Smart TV features Now, the standard resolution is 4K Ultra HD, which offers four times the pixel resolution as previous 1080p HD. That means crisper, more detailed images. It also lets you sit closer to larger TVs without the usual image degradation.

If you are a gamer, it's also worth considering the next-gen gaming features of your prospective new TV. Xbox Series X and PS5 gamers can gain a competitive advantage on certain games if their TV supports 4K 120Hz, while VRR support can result in a smoother gameplay experience. ALLM, meanwhile, simply ensures that you automatically get the best visual experience from both games and movies / TV shows. If you are a more casual gamer or not a gamer at all, you can pretty much disregard these features, and it's likely that doing so will save you a lot of cash. While LCD is no longer Samsung’s only TV technology, the brand clearly still puts it at the heart of its TV world. So much so that Samsung’s 2022 flagship LCD TVs are positioned higher in the brand’s range than its new QD-OLED model. You might assume that the same fate faces its 42-inch sibling, but LG’s 42-inch OLEDs have always been a somewhat different proposition to their larger siblings, and while the 42-inch C3 is certainly very similar to its predecessor, it wasn't priced significantly higher at launch and it's now been discounted heavily anyway. Even more crucially, unlike the 65-inch model, the 42-inch C3 doesn't have significant new rivals to worry about. The Toshiba 43LK3C63DB TV is a Full HD Smart TV with a range of features designed to enhance the viewing experience. The TV boasts a sleek design and advanced technology, ensuring stunning picture quality and immersive sound.It's a great option for gaming, too, thanks to that superb picture punch and a feature set that includes support for 4K/120Hz, VRR and ALLM, and an HGiG mode for excellent HDR accuracy. The design of a TV may not affect its performance, but it can affect how it looks in your home. Look for a TV with a slim profile and thin bezels for a sleek and modern look. Brand reputation The Sony X80K is a lower-end version of the Sony X85K, but it isn't worth getting despite the lower price because it has worse picture quality and doesn't have gaming features. The What Hi-Fi? team has more than 100 years experience of reviewing, testing and writing about consumer electronics.

We've also seen increased production of 42-inch TVs in recent years, with TV brand LG bringing out 42-inch OLED TVs, like the LG OLED42C2 at the top of this guide. In this guide, we've also included several 42-inch and 43-inch TVs, which might give you a bit of extra screen space if the best 40-inch TVs seem a touch too small. What about 42-inch TVs and 43-inch TVs? Overall, the Philips 43PUS7906/12 43-Inch 4K LED TV is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a TV with advanced features and stunning picture quality. The TV’s 4K resolution and HDR10+ technology ensure crystal clear images, while Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos provide a high-quality audio experience. The Smart TV platform provides easy access to a wide range of streaming services, while the sleek design and range of connectivity options make it a practical and stylish choice for any home. High Dynamic Range is without a doubt a much bigger deal than 8K, and certainly something you should consider before buying your next TV.Ultimately, while the AU7100 certainly can't hold a candle to a top OLED or QLED, it's superb for its price. In terms of connectivity, the RCA 43-inch QLED UHD Smart TV offers plenty of options. With 3 HDMI and 2 USB ports, you can connect various devices such as laptops, gaming consoles, and USB drives. The built-in Wi-Fi ensures seamless streaming, and the TV also supports Ethernet for a stable internet connection. Hot on the heels of LG's first 42-inch OLED TV came the 42-inch Sony A90K, which uses the same panel.