Buying Guide TVs
 


📋 About This Guide

This TV buying guide is written by Euronics and is approved by our product specialists. It covers every major decision point for UK customers buying a new TV — from screen size and display type to refresh rate, smart features and budget. It is updated regularly to reflect current technology and available ranges.
 

Best TV for your home TVs by type Find your TV in 60 seconds Choose a TV in five steps Screen Size Display Type Resolution

Smart TV Features, Apps and Connectivity Sound, Wall Mounting and Accessories How much should you spend? Considerations FAQs


How to choose the best TV for your home

What Why
Start with screen size Measure your viewing distance before anything else
Match display type to your room Choose OLED for darker rooms, QLED/Mini LED for brighter ones
Choose your resolution 4K is adequate for most homes in 2026
Check HDMI ports and apps Ensure the TV has everything you need before you buy
Audio Add a soundbar if quality matters, as thinner TVs often benefit from one 

The best TV is not simply the largest or most expensive model. Start with where it will go, how you watch and what you actually need — then find the display type, resolution and features that match. For most UK homes, a well-sized 4K TV with strong smart features, the right screen type and enough HDMI ports will deliver the best long-term value.  

 

TVs by type

LED

An LED TV is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) that uses LED (Light Emitting Diode) backlighting. They illuminate the LCD panel from behind, either at the edges or across the entire back panel (full-array). A standard for mainstream flat-screen televisions, these models are reliable, affordable, and available across a variety of brands, sizes, and price points. 
 

QLED

QLED stands for Quantum Light Emitting Diode. TVs with this technology still have an LED-backlit LCD panel but use a quantum dot filter that sits between the backlight and the panel. When hit by light, this filter emits very precise, pure colours. This delivers wider colour volume, peak brightness suitable for well-lit rooms, improved HDR, and colour accuracy over standard LED.
 

Mini LED

Mini LED is the next step in LED backlighting technology. It reduces LED size, packing in thousands more across the entire panel. This means more precise local dimming – the ability to independently control small areas of the backlight. You’ll see brighter highlights and darker shadows, less ‘blooming’ (a halo of light around bright objects on dark backgrounds), and peak brightness over QLED.

OLED

OLED TVs use pixels that emit light themselves, eliminating the need for a backlight. Each pixel can turn on or off, so black is absolute, not just very dark. You’ll also benefit from infinite contrast, no blooming, and pixel-perfect local dimming over Mini LED. Plus, OLED maintains colour accuracy and contrast even when viewed from different angles. 
 

LED

An LED TV is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) that uses LED (Light Emitting Diode) backlighting. They illuminate the LCD panel from behind, either at the edges or across the entire back panel (full-array). A standard for mainstream flat-screen televisions, these models are reliable, affordable, and available across a variety of brands, sizes, and price points. 
 

QLED

QLED stands for Quantum Light Emitting Diode. TVs with this technology still have an LED-backlit LCD panel but use a quantum dot filter that sits between the backlight and the panel. When hit by light, this filter emits very precise, pure colours. This delivers wider colour volume, peak brightness suitable for well-lit rooms, improved HDR, and colour accuracy over standard LED.
 

Mini LED

Mini LED is the next step in LED backlighting technology. It reduces LED size, packing in thousands more across the entire panel. This means more precise local dimming – the ability to independently control small areas of the backlight. You’ll see brighter highlights and darker shadows, less ‘blooming’ (a halo of light around bright objects on dark backgrounds), and peak brightness over QLED.

OLED

OLED TVs use pixels that emit light themselves, eliminating the need for a backlight. Each pixel can turn on or off, so black is absolute, not just very dark. You’ll also benefit from infinite contrast, no blooming, and pixel-perfect local dimming over Mini LED. Plus, OLED maintains colour accuracy and contrast even when viewed from different angles. 
 


RGB

RGB is the new kid on the block! You’ll see this next generation of TV from big brands such as Samsung, Sony, LG, and TCL. Traditional LED TVs use a white or blue backlight. RGB uses red, green, and blue LEDs in the backlight itself, which creates purer, more vibrant colour. You’ll experience richer colour, higher brightness, and better contrast with less ‘blooming’ – all without using more power. 
 

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RGB

RGB is the new kid on the block! You’ll see this next generation of TV from big brands such as Samsung, Sony, LG, and TCL. Traditional LED TVs use a white or blue backlight. RGB uses red, green, and blue LEDs in the backlight itself, which creates purer, more vibrant colour. You’ll experience richer colour, higher brightness, and better contrast with less ‘blooming’ – all without using more power. 
 

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The right TV depends on four things: where it will sit, how far you sit from the screen, what you watch most, and what you want to spend. A large OLED TV suits films in a darker room. A bright QLED or Mini LED is better for a sunny living room. Gamers need 120Hz and HDMI 2.1. General viewers usually get the best value from a well-sized 4K LED TV.

Use this guide to compare screen sizes, display types, resolutions, smart features and budgets before you buy.

Quick TV decisions: Find your TV in 60 seconds

What you want TV to choose Why it works
Best picture for films OLED TV Superior contrast, deep blacks and detail — especially in darker rooms
Bright living room viewing QLED or Mini LED TV Higher peak brightness keeps the picture clear in daylight
Best value for everyday watching 4K LED TV Strong picture quality at a more accessible price point
Gaming (PS5, Xbox Series X, PC) 120Hz TV with HDMI 2.1 Smoother gameplay, faster response and full support for modern consoles
Bedroom or smaller room 43–50 inch TV Comfortable viewing without dominating a smaller space
Cinema-style setup 65 inch or larger More immersive for films, sports, and family viewing together

Best TVs by use

Different households use their TV differently. This section helps you match a TV type to the way you watch, rather than choosing based on trends.

Best TV for everyday family viewing

The best TV for everyday family viewing is a 50–65 inch 4K LED, QLED or Mini LED TV with strong smart TV support, at least three HDMI ports and clear built-in audio. This combination handles streaming, Freeview, films, sport and children's programmes without paying for premium features you may not need.

Best TV for films and box sets

The best TV for films is an OLED. OLED panels can produce genuine black — each pixel switches off independently — which means dark scenes look realistic. If the room is bright during the day, consider QLED or Mini LED instead, as they offer higher peak brightness. Consider adding a soundbar too, for a complete cinematic experience.

Best TVs by use

Different households use their TV differently. This section helps you match a TV type to the way you watch, rather than choosing based on trends.

Best TV for everyday family viewing

The best TV for everyday family viewing is a 50–65 inch 4K LED, QLED or Mini LED TV with strong smart TV support, at least three HDMI ports and clear built-in audio. This combination handles streaming, Freeview, films, sport and children's programmes without paying for premium features you may not need.

Best TV for films and box sets

The best TV for films is an OLED. OLED panels can produce genuine black — each pixel switches off independently — which means dark scenes look realistic. If the room is bright during the day, consider QLED or Mini LED instead, as they offer higher peak brightness. Consider adding a soundbar too, for a complete cinematic experience.

Best TV for sport

The best TV for sports is one with a high refresh rate, good motion handling, and high brightness. Watching sport in a bright room tips the balance towards QLED or Mini LED over OLED.

Best TV for gaming

The best TV for gaming is one with a 120Hz refresh rate, low input lag, HDMI 2.1, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). These features matter if you use a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or a gaming PC. Do not rely on a TV being labelled "gaming TV" alone — check the spec sheet.

Best TV for bedrooms and smaller rooms

The best TV for a bedroom or smaller room is a 32–50 inch model, chosen based on the actual viewing distance and where the TV will be positioned. Smart TV features are particularly useful in bedrooms because they reduce the need for extra boxes or cables. If you plan to wall-mount, check the VESA size and cable routing before buying.
 

How to choose a TV in five steps

What size TV should you buy? Screen size and viewing distance guide

The right TV screen size depends on how far you sit from the screen. Screen size is measured diagonally — a "55-inch TV" measures 55 inches from corner to corner. For 4K models, the recommended viewing distance is 1.5 times the vertical height of the screen, and HD models require 3 times the vertical height*.

Use the table below to find the right size for your room.

*Source: Sony
 

Viewing distance Recommended TV size Typical setting
Up to 1.7 metres 32–43 inches Bedrooms, kitchens, compact rooms
Up to 1.9 metres 43–50 inches Small living rooms and bedrooms
Up to 2.1 metres 50–55 inches Most UK living rooms
Up to 2.3 metres 55–65 inches Up to 2.3 metres 55–65 inches Family viewing, sport and films
3 metres or more 65 inches and above Large rooms and cinema-style setups

A 55-inch TV is the most popular choice for UK living rooms. A 65-inch model is worth considering for larger spaces, family viewing or a more immersive experience. For bedrooms, a 43–50-inch TV usually feels well-proportioned without being overwhelming.
 

Shop up to 31-inch TVs > Shop 32 to 42-inch TVs > Shop 43 to 54-inch TVs > Shop 55 to 64-inch TVs >

Shop 65 to 74-inch TVs >  Shop 75 to 79-inch TVs > Shop 80-inch Plus TVs > Shop all TVs with Euronics >


OLED vs QLED vs Mini LED vs LED: Which display type is best?

Display type determines brightness, contrast, price, and how well the TV performs in different room lighting conditions. This comparison covers the four main options available in the UK market. RGB is not included in the grid above because it is the underlying colour model used by the other screen technologies, and not a comparable display technology.


💡 Simple Recommendation

Choose OLED if contrast and film-like picture quality matter most, and the room is not excessively bright. Choose QLED or Mini LED if the TV will sit in a bright living room or if you watch a lot of sports. Choose LED if value and screen size matter more than premium contrast.
 

Resolution, HDR and Refresh Rate explained

Is 4K enough for a new TV?

Yes. 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) is the right resolution for most households. It delivers strong picture detail, is fully supported by Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and other major streaming platforms, and is available across a wide range of screen sizes and budgets. For most customers, a high-quality 4K TV will deliver better value than a lower-quality 8K model at a similar price.

What is HDR?

HDR (High Dynamic Range) allows compatible content to show brighter highlights, deeper shadows and more colour detail. To benefit from HDR, the TV must have sufficient brightness and good processing — the HDR label alone does not guarantee a better picture. Look for HDR10+, Dolby Vision, or HLG support, along with a reasonable peak brightness (400 nits or above for a noticeable difference).

Does Refresh Rate matter?

Refresh rate (measured in Hz) determines how many frames the screen can show per second. A 120Hz TV can display smoother motion than a 60Hz TV when viewing compatible content. This matters most for gaming and fast sports. For everyday programmes, Netflix and casual streaming, a standard refresh rate is usually adequate. Gamers and sports viewers should prioritise 120Hz panels.

Is 4K enough for a new TV?

Yes. 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) is the right resolution for most households. It delivers strong picture detail, is fully supported by Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and other major streaming platforms, and is available across a wide range of screen sizes and budgets. For most customers, a high-quality 4K TV will deliver better value than a lower-quality 8K model at a similar price.

What is HDR?

HDR (High Dynamic Range) allows compatible content to show brighter highlights, deeper shadows and more colour detail. To benefit from HDR, the TV must have sufficient brightness and good processing — the HDR label alone does not guarantee a better picture. Look for HDR10+, Dolby Vision, or HLG support, along with a reasonable peak brightness (400 nits or above for a noticeable difference).

Does Refresh Rate matter?

Refresh rate (measured in Hz) determines how many frames the screen can show per second. A 120Hz TV can display smoother motion than a 60Hz TV when viewing compatible content. This matters most for gaming and fast sports. For everyday programmes, Netflix and casual streaming, a standard refresh rate is usually adequate. Gamers and sports viewers should prioritise 120Hz panels.

Smart TV features, apps and connectivity: What to check before you buy

Most new TVs sold in the UK are smart TVs. Before buying, confirm that the TV supports the streaming apps and live TV platforms you use most.

Feature to check Why it matters What to look for
App support Ensures your favourite streaming services work without extra hardware BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, My5, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube
Freeview Play Free UK live and on-demand TV from major broadcasters built-in Look for the Freeview Play logo
Wi-Fi Wireless streaming without an Ethernet cable Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more stable connections
HDMI ports Connecting set-top boxes, consoles, soundbars, and Blu-Ray players Minimum three ports; check at least one is HDMI 2.1 for gaming
HDMI eARC High-quality audio passthrough to a soundbar Present on most recent TVs; confirm if using a premium soundbar
Bluetooth Wireless headphones, speakers and peripherals Useful for late-night viewing without disturbing others
USB ports Playing media from USB drives or powering devices One to two USB ports are standard on most models
Freely Allows you to watch TV over Wi-Fi – no aerial needed Brands with the Freely logo, such as Metz and Sharp

📺 TV Licence Reminder

A UK TV Licence is required to watch or record live TV on any channel or service, and to use BBC iPlayer. This applies regardless of the device used. Visit gov.uk/tv-licence for full guidance. Euronics recommends confirming licence requirements before purchase if you’re unsure.
 

Sound, wall mounting and accessories


Do you need a soundbar?

Modern TVs are thinner than ever, which limits the space available for built-in speakers. A soundbar is worth adding if you watch films, drama or sport regularly — it can significantly improve dialogue clarity, audio depth and overall experience. It is especially recommended for larger TVs above 55 inches, where picture quality may otherwise outpace the built-in audio.


Wall mounting: What to check

Before buying a wall mount, check: the TV's VESA mount pattern (listed in the spec sheet), the wall type (plasterboard, brick or concrete affects fixing choice), the planned viewing height, how cables will be managed, and where the nearest mains socket is. A fixed wall bracket is the simplest option. A tilting or full-motion bracket allows the TV to be angled — useful if glare or seating position varies.
 


Do you need a soundbar?

Modern TVs are thinner than ever, which limits the space available for built-in speakers. A soundbar is worth adding if you watch films, drama or sport regularly — it can significantly improve dialogue clarity, audio depth and overall experience. It is especially recommended for larger TVs above 55 inches, where picture quality may otherwise outpace the built-in audio.


Wall mounting: What to check

Before buying a wall mount, check: the TV's VESA mount pattern (listed in the spec sheet), the wall type (plasterboard, brick or concrete affects fixing choice), the planned viewing height, how cables will be managed, and where the nearest mains socket is. A fixed wall bracket is the simplest option. A tilting or full-motion bracket allows the TV to be angled — useful if glare or seating position varies.
 

Accessories worth considering

Accessory When to consider it
Soundbar If you watch films, sport or drama regularly, or sound quality matters 
Wall bracket If you want to mount the TV on the wall
HDMI cable If the TV does not include one, or you need a longer run
Surge protector To protect the TV from power spikes
Streaming stick If the built-in smart TV platform is limited or you prefer an alternative

Shop Soundbars > Shop Home Cinema Systems > Shop TV Wall Brackets > Shop TV Stands >

How much should you spend on a TV?

The right TV budget depends on screen size, display type and how much picture quality matters.

Budget What to expect Best for
Under £500 Smaller to mid-size 4K LED TVs with essential smart features and basic app support Bedrooms, casual viewing and budget-conscious households
£500–£1,000 Larger 4K TVs with better brightness, stronger processing, more HDMI ports and gaming readiness Main living room TVs and most family households
£1,000–£2,000 OLED, premium QLED and Mini LED TVs with stronger contrast, motion handling and design Film lovers, gamers and premium living room setups
£2,000+ Flagship OLED, very large screens and 8K options Cinema-style home setups and buyers for whom picture quality is the priority

💡 Value Tip

Do not pay extra for one standout specification if the rest of the TV is weak. Screen size, panel quality, brightness, motion handling, HDMI port count and audio should be considered together. A balanced mid-range TV will often outperform an entry-level model that leads with a single headline number.
 

Things to consider before purchase

  • Buying the largest TV available without measuring the viewing distance or wall space first.
  • Ignoring the HDMI port count and running out of connections after setup.
  • Choosing OLED for a very bright room without accounting for reflections and peak brightness needs.
  • Overlooking sound quality, then finding dialogue is hard to hear on a slim TV.
  • Buying a "gaming TV" without confirming HDMI 2.1, 120Hz, VRR and ALLM in the spec sheet.
  • Not checking the TV stand width before buying — it must fit the furniture it will sit on.
  • Buying based on brand loyalty alone without comparing value at the price point.

FAQs


Browse our full range of TVs at Euronics and find the right model for your space, budget and viewing style.