Way back at the dawn of heavy plasma screens, getting your hands on one of the best 55-inch TVs was prohibitively expensive. Now, nestled alongside the very best TVs money can buy, a 4K smart TV with a 55-inch screen sits in the middle of the size range. And thankfully, most screens now share many of the same features inside no matter the size.
This screen size is definitely a favourite with many buyers, as they're a really practical size for most living rooms. After all, not everyone needs or can house an 85-inch TV with a price tag that'll make your eyes water. So, whether you're gaming, catching up on soaps, movies, or binging on a box set - choosing the right TV to match your content is key.
Best 55-inch TVs of 2023 at a glance:
• Best Samsung 55-inch TV: Samsung 55 Inch S95C 4K OLED HDR Smart TV (2023) - View at Amazon
• Best budget 55-inch TV: Hisense 55A6BGTUK (55 Inch) 4K UHD Smart TV - View at Amazon
• Best 55-inch TV with Fire TV: TCL 55CF630K 139cm (55-inch) QLED Fire TV - View at Amazon
• Best mid-budget 55-inch TV: Samsung 55 Inch Q60C QLED 4K TV (2022) - View at Amazon
You may be wondering who the best 55-inch TVs are for. Well, for anyone who has a little less wriggle room in their home, a 40-inch TV should do the trick. But, having settled on screen size there are still a lot of decisions to make. If you're a movie buff, you'll need an ultra-high resolution 4K screen with an OLED or QLED panel to get the best out of your entertainment, not to mention Dolby or DTX sound. More casual viewers might put their money into smart functions instead, and gamers need low-latency screens with fast and variable refresh rates. Sounds like a jargon headache? No problem - we have a buyer's guide and more at the end of the article.
While it's tempting to jump straight into buying a rather large 65-inch smart TV, for us the 55-inch models hit the sweet spot. They offer plenty of connectivity options and equally stunning cinematic experiences. So, with all of those televisual delights on our collective wish lists, we’ve rounded up the best 55-inch 4K smart TVs available.
Best 55-inch TVs of 2024
Best overall 55-inch TV
Description
Easily one of the most technologically innovative televisions of the past few years, Samsung has seemingly done the impossible by combining the vibrancy and colour range of excellent QLED TVs, with the contrast and depth of OLED to produce the ultimate television experience.
The result? Impossibly breathtaking visuals that are far and beyond anything we've seen on a 55-inch TV. The sheer brightness and vivacity of QLED panelling, combined with the depth-enhancing splendour of OLED technology work beautifully. Next-generation games, genre-defining movies, and tear-inducing television, the Samsung S95B is visually sensational.
Audio is catered for with the excellent addition of Dolby Atmos and DTS
If you can spare the cash, there isn't a finer television on the market that can truly compete with the S95B, it's just that good.
Pros
- Breathtaking QD-OLED technology for even deeper colour accuracy and contrast
- Fantastic gaming potential thanks to AMD FreeSync and Game Motion Plus
- Brilliant for realistic sound with Object Tracking Sound, DTS-X and Dolby Atmos
Cons
- So thin and light that it flexes a little, so wall mount with care
Best budget 55-inch TV
Description
Hisense is known for its incredibly reasonably priced televisions, even its high-end QLED models are considerably more affordable than other competing brands. But to hit this incredibly low price point, the A6BG uses a standard LED panel, but with some excellent technical extras. It is perhaps one of the best-priced televisions on the market.
It comes equipped with everything you've come to expect from a modern smart television - full smart app access, HDR, Bluetooth, and more. But they've thrown in the king of HDR colour palette performance, Dolby Vision, too.
The clarity of sound comes via the welcome addition of DTS Virtual X. Alexa voice control is also built-in, and a Game Mode reduces input lag. The A6BG is the perfect budget television that, other than not having the 120Hz refresh rate preferred by some gamers, doesn't have any major drawbacks.
Pros
- Very thin bezels for a budget TV model so will be unobtrusive in any room
- Vibrant and realistic colours thanks to HDR and Dolby Vision
- DTS virtual X for immersive sound
- Amazon Alexa built-in for voice control and home automation access
Cons
- Weak speakers mean a soundbar is probably a worthy addition
Best 55-inch TV Fire TV
Description
TCL is fast becoming a go-to brand for affordable feature-packed televisions, and this 55CF630K is no exception. This is, of course, fully equipped with Amazon's Fire TV OS, with access to your Prime Video content, streaming from apps like Netflix, and there's even Freeview Play for live and catch-up TV.
Incredibly, this is a 4K QLED screen with HDR10+ for over a billion colours. There's Dolby Vision and clear and enveloping sound comes courtesy of Dolby Atmos. Alexa voice control is also built-in too.
Game Master mode reduces latency, and Motion Clarity will sharpen things up for the most responsive of gaming sessions. The only slight downside with this model is that it's a 60Hz panel, but again, for this price, we're not complaining.
Pros
- A brilliant TV for Amazon Prime members with the Fire TV operating system
- Very thin bezels for a budget TV model
- Excellent HDR support with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision
- Dolby Atmos sound for realism
Cons
- 60Hz non-variable refresh rate won't suit hardcore gamers
Best 55-inch OLED TV for gaming
Description
It wouldn't be a true roundup of the best televisions of the year without at least mentioning LG's evo C3 OLED TV - one of the best displays on the market. With a bright OLED screens at 650 nits and the legendary near-infinite blacks you get with OLED, this is the ultimate television for gaming and rich realistic cinema experiences.
A breathtaking razor-thin design houses gorgeous OLED depth with some formidable 40W speakers twinned with Dolby Atmos. Colour realism is delivered by HDR and Dolby Vision IQ.
There's a variable 120Hz refresh rate If you're a gamer, with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync compatibility. Plus, the break-neck 0.1ms response time is going to amp up your reflexes and put you on course for a win.
In terms of smart TV functions, the ever-brilliant LG operating system works to provide one of our favourite television user experiences ever. It'll even use AI to upscale lower resolutions. Now, if you're sold on the beauty of OLED technology but want more choices, we've gathered our favourite OLED TVs here for you too.
Pros
- One of the best displays on the market thanks to the LD OLED panel and Dolby Vision
- 0.1ms response time is lightning fast for gaming accuracy
- Variable 120hz refresh rate absolutely ideal for smooth game visuals
Cons
- Serious gamers might want to amp up the sound with a soundbar or gaming speakers
Best mid-budget 55-inch gaming TV
Description
Samsung's Q60C is one of our favourite TVs on the market right now - not because it's the fastest, the brightest, or the thinnest - but because it's so reasonably priced and an ideal choice for gamers. Stunning detail and vibrancy come with the 4K QLED display. The extra colour range is courtesy of the superior HDR10+ standard too - so get ready for over a billion colours.
Despite having weaker sound than some, it's still loud enough for us; and with Object Tracking Sound and Dolby Atmos included, your gaming or home cinema experience comes through powerfully enough for some decent immersion. If you want more audio power, Samsung's Q-Symphony feature will intelligently combine both your TV's internal speakers and an external soundbar for a much larger soundscape.
Other killer features for gamers include Auto Game Mode to minimise input lag and Ultrawise Gameview for compatibility with 21:9 and 32.9 aspect ratio gaming.
Whilst there is Motion Xcelerator to smooth out any missing frames, there's no Freesync or variable refresh rate. It's also a 60Hz TV but for a mid-budget gaming TV with this many features that's a fair compromise. Throw in the usual smart TV apps and features, and you have some incredible experiences in store.
Pros
- Some fantastic gamer features to reduce input lag
- Gameview mode for supporting various gaming aspect ratios
- Motion Xcellerator will fill in any skipped frames for smoother gameplay
Cons
- 60hz refresh rate is adequate but you'll find better - for more money
Best Sony 55-inch TV
Description
With a stunning Full Array LED panel, the XR-55X90S model from Sony has the extra brightness you'll need for subtle, realistic colours, and deeper contrast. This will also help to overcome bright rooms or glaring sunlight when watching your favourite shows. Sony’s Ambient Optimisation tech is clever here too, as it uses light sensors to detect the brightness in the room. It'll then adjust brightness levels automatically.
This is of course a 4K HDR model with all of the usual smart TV functions, but the bag of Sony tricks doesn’t end there. PS5 gamers are in for a treat, with the Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode to detect games and adjust automatically for the very best visuals. This is one of the models we covered in our run-down of the best Sony TVs available now, so if you're a Sony fan we've got you covered.
Audio-wise, Sony's Acoustic Multi-Audio tech will ensure that sound is always tuned to your position. This is also a smart TV with a variable 120hz refresh rate, DTS Digital Surround sound and Dolby Atmos. Prepare for a fantastic well-rounded movie and gaming experience.
Pros
- Fantastic Ambient Optimisation and Light Sensor Feature for easy viewing
- Incredible gaming experience for PlayStation owners, including HDR tone mapping for deeper colours
- Great surround sound thanks to Dolby Atmos, Multi-Audio tech that will track your listening position
- Full-array LED panel is more affordable than OLED at this size
Cons
- Full Array LED panels are great but not as good as OLED or QLED
Best affordable Samsung 55-inch TV
www.currys.co.uk
Description
One of our favourite TVs of 2023, and one of the greatest additions to Samsung's Crystal TV range - the CU8500 is a fantastic mid-range choice for those looking for impeccable picture quality without the gut-punch of a £1,000 television.
Perfect for home cinemas, gaming rooms, and bedrooms - this television has a super-impressive feature set. There's Dynamic Crystal Colour Image to boost the HDR10+ colour palette even further. With Object Tracking Sound, Motion Xceletator Technology and Auto Game Mode, your console sessions will shine with a new level of immersion.
One of the reasons why this TV is so affordable is down to Samsung's choice of panel. It's a 60Hz LED screen, so no ultra-sharp OLEDs or QLEDs here; but for everyone who isn't a movie purist or hardcore gamer, the Samsung CU8500 is absolutely up to the task.
The CU8500 is a best-selling TV for good reason, and it even has Alexa voice control, so now's the time to invest in one of the best from Samsung.
Pros
- Fantastic mid-range Samsung TV with solid build quality
- Great picture quality thanks to Dynamic Crystal Colour Image boost and top-of-the-line HDR10+
- Alexa voice control for convenient control over your TV and more
Cons
- Weaker audio than other TVs here
The best 55-inch TV for Smart features
Sky.comwww.sky.com
Description
Experience next-generation viewing with a 55-inch Sky Glass TV, a marvel in home entertainment. With its seamless, one-device operation, this TV ticks all the boxes for anyone seeking power and simplicity in a smart TV. The vibrant, ultra-HD display brings your favourite shows and films to life in stunning clarity and colour.
Sky Glass TV integrates effortlessly with Sky's streaming service, offering tailored content recommendations. There's no need for a satellite dish; everything streams directly through a Wi-Fi connection, making setup and daily use remarkably straightforward.
The built-in Dolby Atmos sound is a real treat. This all-in-one media powerhouse combines superb audio-visual performance with a stylish, frameless silhouette, transforming any room into a sophisticated entertainment hub.
Pros
- Super-powered sound
- All-encompassing entertainment system
- Excellent smart features
Cons
- Only 60Hz, not the most crisp display out there
The best 55-inch TV for wall mounting
AmazonDescription
This Amazon Fire TV 55-inch Omni QLED TV is a brilliant option for a few reasons. You're getting a beast of a screen, running Amazon's OS which is connected to Prime and other Amazon services.
The standout has to be that QLED screen - rich colours, deep blacks, vibrant pictures and finished with really impressive sound.
This TV works fabulously for wall mounting, with an easy setup and a real worthwhile end result.
Pros
- Gorgeous display for colours
- A top choice for wall mounting
- Has one of the best smart assistants out there
- UI is a breeze to navigate
Cons
- Disappointing Freeview options
Best high-budget 55-inch TV
Samsungwww.very.co.uk
Description
Dive into the future of television with the Samsung QE55QN700C, a 55-inch Neo QLED 8K HDR Smart TV that defines premium viewing. This model showcases breathtaking 8K resolution, delivering unparalleled picture quality and sharper details that elevate every viewing experience.
Thanks to Quantum Matrix Technology, this TV delivers precise control of the densely packed LEDs, ensuring exceptional brightness and stark contrasts. Each scene is depicted with incredible depth and lifelike accuracy, enhancing your favourite content.
Built-in Dolby Atmos transports you into the story with its next-level audio clarity and depth. Experience immersive sound that follows the action, all without the need for additional speakers.
Elegantly designed with a sleek, minimalistic frame, the Samsung QE55QN700C not only enhances your viewing but also adds a touch of style to your living space. Its smart interface integrates seamlessly with your digital life, making it the ultimate entertainment hub for the modern home.
Pros
- Out-of-this-world 8K viewing
- Premium sound brought by Dolby Atmos setup
- Wide viewing angle and anti-reflection mean it can perfrom in the biggest and brightest of rooms
Cons
- Only 50Hz refresh rate
Top tip: Why get smart?
If you’re a casual viewer, a smart TV will give you access to on-demand services like BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and All 4. Therefore, you can catch up on all sitcoms, soaps, and reality TV shows. Also, if you go for a TV to connect to your Freeview aerial or even one with the Freeview Play app included, you're guaranteed to always find something to watch from terrestrial channels.
Thankfully, if by chance you're a gamer, you won't be short on choice either. As you'll discover, some of the best and most affordable gaming televisions you can find will give you an unprecedented experience. Vivid HDR colours, 120Hz variable refresh rate, the works. Silky smooth gameplay with immersive surround sound awaits.
For those who like to spend a bit more time in front of the screen, a smart TV has even more to offer. In addition to the on-demand catch-up apps and broadcast content mentioned above, there’s also access to subscription services. These will pipe the latest premium entertainment, including blockbuster films, right to your screen. Don't forget, it’s not just Netflix and Amazon Prime Video either, there are myriad other streaming apps and services available, too.
Best 55-inch TVs of 2023: Buyer's guide
If there's one type of gadget that has more than its fair share of technobabble, it's TVs. Here are the most common ones you'll come across, explained:
4K and Ultra HD (UHD)
4K and UHD are two interchangeable terms that more or less refer to the same TV resolution - 3840×2160. This pixel resolution count is four times higher than standard HD screens, with 8.3 million pixels working across the screen. This means clearer, more accurate images.
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
High Dynamic Range smart TVs can reach brighter and darker colours than regular HD TVs. This means the picture on-screen appears more like a real-life image. HDR works to get as much light, crispness, and depth into your picture. Whites are brighter and blacks are darker. It offers a huge range of over one billion colours. HDR10+ is an extension of this, but the use of extra metadata creates an even more refined picture.
Dolby Vision is Dolby’s version of HDR10 and HRD10+ - once again adding a small boost to the colour range.
LED
LED stands for light-emitting diode. These LEDs react when an electrical current passes through them. LED screens use a backlight to provide the image.
OLED
With OLED TVs, the pixels produce their own light which gives greater accuracy to the image. If you're interested in this, make sure you check out our best OLED TVs guide.
QLED
Samsung does not make OLED TVs, they make QLED TVs. QLED is a Samsung property that replaces Liquid Crystals (found in LCD) and replaces them with Quantum dots, which Samsung says offers a much more vibrant colour display and sharper images. QLED technology does tend to make a TV cheaper than its OLED competitor. Make sure you take a look at our best QLED TVs roundup.
Common screen resolutions:
HD: 1280×720
Full HD: 1920×1080
Ultra HD/4K: 3840×2160
Best 55-inch TVs of 2023: Frequently asked questions:
What size TV do I need?
Only you can answer this question after balancing up your budget, requirement, and available space. However, one thing we can advise you on when it comes to watching the even best 55-inch TVs is the recommended viewing distance.
Here’s a rough guide to give you an idea of the minimum distance you should have from your TV:
40-inches - 80 inches (6.7 feet)
50-inches - 100 inches (8.3 feet)
55-inches - 108 inches (9 feet)
60-inches - 120 inches (10 feet)
75-inches - 150 inches (12.5 feet)
What can a smart TV do?
A smart TV connects to the internet via a selection of on-demand catch-up apps, such as BBC iPlayer, All 4, and ITV Hub. The selection of apps pre-loaded or available to download may differ between manufacturers and models; so it’s worth double-checking the model you’re considering.
You can also access subscription services such as Amazon Prime Video or Netflix. Many smart TVs will also have apps for internet services, such as news, weather services, internet browsers, and social media. Music can be streamed too, such as Spotify. Some of the best 55-inch TVs also offer additional features, such as Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio connections, and smartphone and tablet connections.
For an upgraded smart TV experience, combine your smart TV with a router VPN and you can access the catalogues of streaming services from around the world. You'll also be safer online, and less likley to have your internet speeds bottleneck by your internet service provider. Neat, right?
Is it worth buying a smart TV?
If you’re someone who loves to watch TV, then a smart TV is likely to be worth it. The internet connection offers up plentiful access to free and paid-for subscription content via apps, whenever you want it.
What are the best apps for a smart TV?
In our opinion, the best apps are the ones that offer you the best entertainment choices, the most useful features, and reliable service. Therefore, here’s what we recommend for your 55-inch TV :
Netflix – Access thousands of titles, both existing and original exclusive productions. The app is reliable and simple to use, and there are several subscription tiers available.
Amazon Prime Video – Prime Video often has a great selection of the latest movie releases. You can also purchase or rent other titles that may not be included in your subscription. If you subscribe to this service, you’ll automatically get access to Amazon’s Prime delivery service and basic music streaming package.
BBC iPlayer – This on-demand catch-up app gives you access to the best of the BBC. Programs and films are available to watch for up to 30 days after their original broadcast, and you can restart and rewind live programs. You’ll also have access to a large back catalogue of BBC programming. You’ll need a TV license to use this service.
All 4 – All 4 is Channel 4’s answer to the BBC’s iPlayer. The content included covers Channel 4, E4, More 4 and Vice TV. The back catalogue available on the app will allow you to comfortably binge on comedies, dramas, quirky documentaries, and reality shows. This is a free service, but you’ll have to sit through the occasional advert break.
Other - YouTube, Spotify, and Disney+ are also three of our favourites.
For these features to work, you’ll need an internet connection via WiFi or Ethernet connection with a reliable broadband connection and high-to-unlimited data limits. Apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Spotify Premium will require a subscription fee and will not allow you to access content without signing up.
Can I listen to my smart TV with wireless headphones?
If you’ve got wireless Bluetooth headphones and your smart TV has Bluetooth, then the answer is yes. Just be aware that the range on the connection may be limited to a radius of a few meters, so depending on your setup, you might have to sit closer to your TV. Due to the idiosyncratic nature of some Bluetooth headphones and TVs, if you’re in doubt that your planned set-up will work, check with the manufacturers.
If you plan on regularly listening to your smart TV via wireless headphones, it would be worth considering purchasing a dedicated entertainment wireless headset with a transmitter, as they tend to have a great range, with some models even accepting multiple headsets.
William Lobley is the Deputy Tech & Fitness Editor for What's The Best. Here, he oversees, curates and researches listicles and reviews as many products as his home office can handle.
He has spent nearly five years writing about tech, audio, outdoors and fitness and has reviewed everything from smartphones to ice baths. In addition, he's well-versed in sniffing out the best deals and savings the internet offers.
When not at his desk writing, reviewing or deal-hunting, he'll be relaxing with Japanese crime novels, bingeing some classic anime, strolling the countryside or at the gym listening to the heaviest metal Spotify has to offer.
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