Best 65 Inch Smart Tv For The Money
So, you're ready to dive into the world of 65-inch smart TVs! This is a fantastic size for most living rooms, offering an immersive viewing experience without dominating the space. But with so many options out there, finding the best 65-inch smart TV for the money can feel overwhelming. This guide is tailored for first-time buyers like you, cutting through the jargon to help you make a smart purchase.
Why a 65-inch smart TV? It's all about the perfect balance of screen size, features, and price. A smart TV connects to the internet, letting you stream your favorite shows and movies directly, ditching the need for extra devices.
Top 5 65-Inch Smart TVs: A Quick Comparison
Let's start with a side-by-side look at some of the top contenders. This table gives you a snapshot of key features to help you narrow down your choices.
| Model | Price (USD, Approx.) | Resolution | HDR Support | Smart Platform | Warranty (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony X90L | $1300 | 4K UHD | Dolby Vision, HDR10 | Google TV | 1 |
| Samsung QN90C | $1500 | 4K UHD | HDR10+ | Tizen | 1 |
| LG C3 | $1700 | 4K UHD OLED | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG | webOS | 1 |
| TCL 6-Series (R655) | $800 | 4K UHD | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG | Roku TV | 1 |
| Hisense U8K | $1000 | 4K UHD | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG | Google TV | 1 |
Detailed Reviews
Sony X90L
The Sony X90L is a fantastic all-around choice. Its impressive picture quality, powered by Sony's Cognitive Processor XR, delivers vibrant colors and excellent contrast. Google TV provides a user-friendly interface and a vast library of apps.
Samsung QN90C
If you're looking for a bright and vibrant picture, the Samsung QN90C is worth considering. Its Mini LED backlighting technology offers exceptional brightness and precise contrast control. The Tizen operating system is sleek and responsive, although some users find it a bit heavy on ads.
LG C3
For the ultimate in picture quality, the LG C3 is hard to beat. Its OLED display delivers perfect blacks and stunning contrast, creating an immersive viewing experience. The webOS smart platform is intuitive and easy to navigate.
TCL 6-Series (R655)
The TCL 6-Series (R655) offers incredible value for the money. It boasts excellent picture quality, thanks to its Mini-LED backlighting and QLED technology. Roku TV is simple to use and provides access to a wide range of streaming services.
Hisense U8K
The Hisense U8K is another strong contender in the value category. It delivers impressive picture quality with its Mini-LED technology and support for multiple HDR formats. Google TV ensures a smooth and customizable smart experience.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Buying a used TV can save you money, but it comes with risks. A new TV offers the peace of mind of a warranty and the latest technology.
Used TVs: Pros
- Lower price
Used TVs: Cons
- No warranty
- Potential for hidden issues
- Older technology
New TVs: Pros
- Warranty protection
- Latest technology and features
- Peace of mind
New TVs: Cons
- Higher price
Reliability Ratings by Brand
TV reliability can vary by brand. Here's a general overview based on common experiences. Note that individual experiences can differ.
- Sony: Generally known for good reliability.
- Samsung: Tend to be reliable, but issues can arise.
- LG: OLEDs are new technology, longevity may vary, but reliability is generally good.
- TCL: Can be less reliable than the top brands, but improvements are constantly being made.
- Hisense: Similar to TCL, reliability is generally improving.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
Before you finalize your purchase, make sure to consider these key features.
- Resolution: Opt for 4K UHD for the sharpest picture.
- HDR Support: Look for Dolby Vision or HDR10 for enhanced contrast and colors.
- Smart Platform: Choose a platform you find user-friendly (Google TV, Tizen, webOS, Roku TV).
- Connectivity: Ensure it has enough HDMI ports for your devices.
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz is standard, but 120Hz is better for fast-paced content like sports and games.
Summary
Choosing the best 65-inch smart TV depends on your budget, viewing preferences, and smart features you value most. Consider picture quality, smart platform, reliability, and the features on your checklist.
Take your time, read reviews, and compare models. Remember, the "best" TV is subjective and depends on your individual needs.
Ready to Upgrade Your Viewing Experience?
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to start shopping! Head to your local electronics store or browse online retailers. Don't hesitate to ask questions and compare different models in person. Happy viewing!
