2025 Popular Smart TV Shopping Guide
A decade ago, there were only a few smart TVs. Nowadays, however, consumers have a wide range of choices as brands launch smart TVs to connect to the blossoming world of online audio and video entertainment. With different operating systems, specifications and features, it's hard not to get overwhelmed. So, here's what you should consider when choosing a smart TV.
2025 Latest 55" 4K TV Review Report
▾4 to 4.5 Stars▾
| Product | Screen Type | Image Quality | Sound Quality | Smart TV Features | Ease of Use | Power Saving | Safety | Overall Rating |
SAMSUNG S90D 4K OLED TV |
OLED |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LG B4 OLED TV |
OLED |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SONY BRAVIA 8 OLED TV |
OLED |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PANASONIC MX950H 4K MINI LED Smart TV |
QD/Mini LED |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SAMSUNG QN85D Neo QLED 4K LED LCD TV |
QD/Mini LED |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Source: Consumer Council
Reasons to buy a Smart TV
Smart TVs are connected to the Internet with an endless variety of programmes available on major streaming platforms. Audiences can now enjoy an incredible diversity in audio-visual experiences. And with the rise of the smart home, smart TVs will become the centre of attention with some models able to connect with and control different smart appliances.
Which is the Best Operating System?
There are four major operating systems popular in Hong Kong: Samsung Tizen, LG webOS, Panasonic My home screen, and Android TV that commonly used by other brands. In fact, the basic functions of most current operating systems are similar with the main differences lying in the interface and operation.
Comparison of 4 Major Smart TV Systems
Tizen (Smart Hub) |
webOS |
My home screen |
Android TV (authorised version) |
|
| Brand | Samsung | LG | Panasonic | Hisense / Sharp / Skyworth / Sony / TCL |
| Interface | Main menu at the bottom of the screen | Full screen design | ||
| App | Samsung App Store | LG Content Store | Support specific apps | Google Play |
| Remote Control | One Remote (control multiple devices) | Magic Remote (ultra-smooth mouse experience) | Remote Control | Remote Control |
| Mobile Remote Control | One depth | LG TV Plus app | TV Remote 2 | Android TV Remote Control |
| Screen Projection |
|
|
|
|
| Voice Recognition |
|
|
N/A |
|
| Smart Home Appliances | Support | Support | N/A | Support |
What Size should I Get?
Most think the bigger the TV, the better but the right viewing distance is more important than size. Simply put, the better the picture quality, the closer the optimal viewing distance.
- Full HD TV: Best Viewing Distance (cm) = TV Size x 4
- 4K UHD TV: Best Viewing Distance (cm) = TV Size x 3
Work out the appropriate size for your home before buying a 4K TV. For example, if the distance between the sofa and the wall at 1.5m, it is better to choose a 50" model.
| TV Size | Full HD TV Best Viewing Distance |
4K UHD TV Best Viewing Distance |
| 40" | 160cm | 120cm |
| 43" | 172cm | 129cm |
| 49" | 196cm | 147cm |
| 50" | 200cm | 150cm |
| 55" | 220cm | 165cm |
| 65" | 260cm | 195cm |
Differences between LED, QLED and OLED
These confusing abbreviations represent three types of LCD technology. The choice of which one to buy depends on the image quality as each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- LED:
LED TV uses liquid crystal display (LCD) technology and pairs it with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as the light source. - QD/Mini LED:
QLED screens add a layer of quantum dots (QDs) to make colors more vivid and images brighter. The overall display still relies on LED backlighting. Some TVs also introduce Mini LED technology, which uses local dimming to enhance brightness and improve dark scene details. - OLED (organic LED):
OLED screens generate images by allowing each pixel to emit different colors of light independently, eliminating the need for traditional LCD backlighting.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | |
LED |
|
|
QLED |
|
|
OLED |
|
|
Differences between HD, Full HD, 4K UHD and 8K UHD
The pixel level affects the picture quality. If the resolution of a Smart TV is only in HD, it is entry level. Full HD is now the mainstream for Smart TVs. However, the most attractive aspect of smart TVs is that streaming platforms such as Netflix and YouTube already support 4K. With movies already in 4K, 4K TVs are the best value for money.
As for 8K UHD TVs, they are naturally the best for those who have a budget in mind and have a high demand for picture quality. Although 8K is a relatively rare option at the moment, some Hollywood blockbusters are already moving in this direction such as Captain Marvel which was shot in 8K. AI-equipped TVs automatically upgrade the picture so you enjoy the visual impact at home with the same level of detail and texture as if you were in a cinema. Also check if your TV supports HDR technology. Images are detailed with better colours and contrast and the overall viewing is more vivid and realistic.
Some brands are good on audio and support Dolby Atmos panoramic sound or use on-screen output technology to rectify glitches such as sound and picture mismatches. Look out for these when buying a smart TV.
What TV is Best for Playing Video Games?
Buyers who play video games need to consider compatibility with the gaming consoles. The next-gen PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S delivers up to 8K UHD at 120 Hz. This effectively reduces screen tearing, choppiness and flickers and improves picture lag so a variable refresh rate (VRR) of 120 Hz is required. Some models use technologies such as eARC, AMD FreeSync or G-Sync, or have ALLM or HGiG modes to create a smooth and immersive gaming experience.