These TVs are favorites
Vizio M-Series
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The good: The Vizio has better overall picture quality than anything else at its price, and in some ways outperforms even more expensive TVs. It can handle both HDR10 and Dolby Vision high-dynamic-range formats. The Chromecast built-in system offers more apps and more frequent updates than many dedicated smart TV systems, and can even be controlled by a Google Home speaker.
The bad: Not as bright as some competitors. No built-in tuner, so you can’t watch over-the-air antenna broadcasts unless you attach a tuner. Mediocre external design and poor smart TV onscreen menus. Only one HDMI input is compatible with every 4K HDR source.
The cost: $1,041 to $1,100
The bottom line: The Vizio remains the best choice for mainstream budgets that prioritize image quality over everything else.
LG OLEDC7P
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The good: The C7 is tied with other 2017 OLEDs as the best performing TV we’ve tested. It delivers perfect black levels, wide viewing angles, accurate color and a great bright-room picture. It’s compatible with both major HDR formats, and HDR image quality is better than last year. Its striking design features a super-slim panel.
The bad: The less-expensive LG OLEDB7A has the same image quality.
The cost: $2,697 to $3,000
The bottom line: The C7 is the best overall TV we’ve ever tested, but the B7A is a superior value.
TCL P series Roku TV
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The good: The affordable TCL P series has excellent overall image quality, with deep black levels, rich contrast and accurate color. Its Roku smart TV service is the best available, with a simple interface and extensive streaming app support. The TV handles both HDR10 and Dolby Vision high dynamic range sources.
The bad: It’s only available in the 55inch size. All the other TVs reviewed are 65 inches.
The cost: $600
The bottom line: With excellent picture quality and all the latest features for a rock-bottom price, the TCL P series is the TV to get at 55 inches.
Sony XBR-X900E
Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5
The good: The Sony evinces excellent image quality, with deep black levels, accurate color, solid video processing and best-in-class high dynamic range performance. Its modern, minimalist styling is a cut above budget models. The Android TV operating system beats many competitors with more apps and integrated Google Assistant.
The bad: Costs more than Vizio and TCL TVs with similar image quality. Smart TV and voice control features can occasionally be slow.
The cost: $1,700
The bottom line: The Sony has the sweet style and superb picture quality to tempt mid-range TV shoppers away from Vizio or TCL.