Finding the right TV for your Apple TV 4K can feel overwhelming, given the vast array of options available. It’s important to familiarize yourself with modern TV technology and understand the nuances before making a decision. This guide aims to simplify your search by highlighting essential features, top picks, and setup tips that can help you get the most out of your Apple TV 4K experience. Choosing the right TV for your Apple TV 4K is about balancing various factors like budget, room environment, and personal preferences. Whether you opt for an OLED or QLED, ensure it supports 4K, HDR, and has a good refresh rate and low input lag for gaming. Remember to consider the smart features and audio quality for a complete entertainment experience.
Finding the Perfect Display for Your Apple TV Experience
Features to Look For
- HDR (High Dynamic Range): HDR significantly enhances image quality with expanded contrast and a wider color range. Look for TVs supporting Dolby Vision and HDR10+, the most widely used HDR formats.
- 120Hz Refresh Rate: A 120Hz refresh rate ensures smoother motion, ideal for sports broadcasts and fast-paced gaming.
- HDMI 2.1 Ports: HDMI 2.1 allows for higher bandwidth, enabling 4K resolution at 120Hz and features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smoother gaming.
- Smart TV Platform: Choose a TV with a user-friendly smart TV platform with easy access to your favorite streaming apps.
Best TVs To Use With Apple TV 4K
| Rank | TV Model | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LG OLED evo C2 | Near-perfect blacks, infinite contrast, vibrant colors, Dolby Vision HDR, α9 Gen5 AI processor, 4 HDMI 2.1 ports, 120Hz refresh rate | Stunning picture quality, excellent gaming performance, user-friendly smart platform | Expensive | $1,600-$2,500 |
| 2 | Samsung S95C | Brightest OLED panel, Quantum Dot technology, sleek design, integrated stand | Highly impressive HDR, accurate colors, stylish design | Pricey | $2,000-$3,000 |
| 3 | Samsung QLED S90C | QLED display, Dolby Vision HDR, AI-powered upscaling, built-in Dolby Atmos, user-friendly smart TV platform | Great balance of performance and price, good audio, convenient platform | Not as advanced as top OLED models | $1,000-$1,500 |
| 4 | Sony X95K | Mini LED technology, deep blacks, excellent contrast, XR Cognitive Processor X1, Google TV platform | Bright and vivid picture, powerful processing, versatile platform | More expensive than some QLED options | $1,500-$2,000 |
| 5 | TCL 6-Series R646 | QLED display, Dolby Vision HDR, 120Hz refresh rate, Roku smart TV platform | Affordable, smooth motion, Roku’s user-friendly interface | Lower peak brightness compared to high-end models | $500-$800 |
| 6 | Hisense ULED U7G | ULED technology, full-array local dimming backlight, Dolby Vision HDR, 120Hz refresh rate | Budget-friendly option with good HDR and gaming features | Not as accurate color reproduction as top models | $400-$600 |
| 7 | LG C2 OLED (mentioned again) | See above for details | Excellent all-rounder for both movies and gaming | High cost | $1,400-$2,000 |
| 8 | Samsung QN90B Neo QLED | Mini-LED backlight, outstanding HDR, excellent black levels, 144Hz refresh rate, G-Sync compatibility | Great for HDR performance and gaming, high refresh rate | Pricey | $2,500-$3,500 |
| 9 | Apple HomePod TV 4K | High-quality streaming device, Dolby Atmos sound, compact design, seamless Apple ecosystem integration | Convenient, excellent audio, space-saving | Not technically a TV, limited screen size | $200-$250 |
| 10 | Vizio P Series Quantum | QLED display, Dolby Vision HDR, 120Hz refresh rate, SmartCast platform | Affordable, decent picture quality, smooth motion | Lower contrast and color accuracy compared to high-end models | $400-$600 |
Some More TV Recommendations
Here’s a table showcasing some excellent options, along with highlights of each:
| Model | Display Technology | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| LG C3 OLED | OLED | Superb contrast, perfect blacks, vibrant colors, wide viewing angles |
| Sony A80K OLED | OLED | Excellent picture quality, great color accuracy, cinematic experience |
| Samsung QN90C QLED | Mini-LED QLED | Bright and vibrant, excellent HDR performance, good black levels |
| TCL 6-Series Roku TV | LED | Great value, Dolby Vision HDR, good all-around performance |
OLED vs. QLED
OLED
- Offers unparalleled black levels and exceptional contrast.
- Individual pixels can be turned completely off, creating an impressive visual experience.
- Wider viewing angles than most LED TVs.
QLED
- Uses quantum dot technology for enhanced brightness and color saturation.
- Excellent at displaying bold, vibrant HDR content
- Typically more affordable than OLED TVs.
The best choice for you ultimately depends on your preferences and budget. If you prioritize exceptional image quality with deep blacks and a wide range of colors, OLED is the way to go. If you desire bright, vibrant picture quality with excellent HDR performance at a more budget-friendly price, QLED is a great option.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding TV Technologies: Learn about OLED vs. QLED and the importance of HDMI 2.1.
- Top Picks for Apple TV 4K: Discover the best overall, budget, and high-end TVs for Apple TV 4K.
- Features to Consider: Resolution, HDR support, Smart TV OS compatibility, input lag, and refresh rate.
- Setting Up Your TV with Apple TV 4K: A step-by-step guide to ensure a seamless experience.
10 Best TVs for Apple TV 4K in 2024
Apple TV 4K unlocks the potential of your favorite streaming services and iTunes library, delivering stunning visuals and immersive audio. To truly experience its magic, you need a TV that can keep up. Here are 10 of the best TVs for Apple TV 4K in 2, -24catering to various budgets and viewing preferences:
OLED Powerhouses:
- LG OLED evo C2: This top-of-the-line beauty boasts near-perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and vibrant colors thanks to its self-lit OLED technology. Dolby Vision HDR support and a powerful α9 Gen5 AI processor ensure stunning picture quality, while four HDMI 2.1 ports and 120Hz refresh rate make it a gamer’s delight.
- Samsung S95C: Boasting the brightest OLED panel on the market, the S95C delivers incredible HDR highlights without sacrificing the deep blacks and inky shadows that OLED is known for. Quantum Dot technology further enhances color accuracy, while the sleek design and integrated stand make it a stylish centerpiece for any living room.
QLED Contenders:
- Samsung QLED S90C: This TV strikes a fantastic balance between performance and price. Its Quantum Dot display delivers vibrant colors and excellent HDR performance, while the AI-powered processor upscales even lower-resolution content to look great. With built-in Dolby Atmos sound and a user-friendly smart TV platform, the S90C offers a complete entertainment package.
- Sony X95K: Sony’s Mini LED technology shines in this TV, offering impressive brightness, deep blacks, and excellent contrast control. The XR Cognitive Processor X1 boosts picture and sound quality further, while Google TV platform provides access to all your favorite streaming services.
Budget-Friendly Brilliance:
- TCL 6-Series R646: This mid-range TV punches above its weight with its QLED display, Dolby Vision HDR support, and smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Roku’s user-friendly smart TV platform offers a vast selection of streaming apps, making it a great choice for cord-cutters.
- Hisense ULED U7G: Hisense’s ULED technology combines quantum dots with a full-array local dimming backlight for vibrant colors and impressive contrast. The TV also features Dolby Vision HDR and a 120Hz refresh rate, making it a good option for gamers on a budget.
Gaming All-Stars:
- LG C2 OLED: As mentioned earlier, the LG C2 is a fantastic all-rounder, but its gaming prowess deserves special mention. Four HDMI 2.1 ports with VRR and ALLM support ensure buttery-smooth gameplay, while the OLED panel’s ultra-fast response time eliminates motion blur.
- Samsung QN90B Neo QLED: Another great choice for gamers, the QN90B boasts a mini-LED backlight that delivers outstanding HDR performance and excellent black levels. It also features a 144Hz refresh rate and G-Sync compatibility for tear-free gaming even on the latest consoles.
Alternative Picks:
- Apple HomePod TV 4K: While not technically a TV, the Apple HomePod TV 4K combines a high-quality streaming device with stunning Dolby Atmos sound in a compact package. It’s perfect for those who want a minimalist setup and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
- Vizio P Series Quantum: This budget-friendly option from Vizio offers a QLED display with Dolby Vision HDR support and a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth viewing experience. The SmartCast platform provides access to all your favorite streaming services, making it a good choice for casual viewers.
Choosing the Right TV:
The best TV for Apple TV 4K depends on your budget, viewing preferences, and gaming needs. Consider factors like display technology (OLED vs. QLED), HDR support, refresh rate, smart TV platform, and gaming features before making your decision.
Understanding TV Technologies
OLED vs. QLED: Pros and Cons
OLED TVs are renowned for their deep blacks and vibrant colors, thanks to individual pixel illumination. This technology ensures excellent contrast ratios, making them ideal for dark-room viewing. However, they can be pricier and have a risk of burn-in with static images.
QLED TVs, on the other hand, use quantum dot technology with an LED backlight. They are brighter than OLEDs and more suitable for well-lit rooms. QLEDs are generally more affordable and don’t suffer from burn-in issues, but they can’t match the true blacks of OLEDs.
Importance of HDMI 2.1 for Apple TV 4K
HDMI 2.1 is a game-changer for Apple TV 4K users. It supports higher video resolutions and faster refresh rates, including 8K60 and 4K120. Key features like eARC, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) significantly enhance gaming and streaming experiences.
Top Picks for Apple TV 4K
Best Overall TV for Apple TV 4K
The LG OLED CX series stands out as an exceptional choice. Its superb picture quality, coupled with HDMI 2.1 support, makes it a top contender for Apple TV 4K users. The CX series delivers stunning visuals, deep blacks, and a rich color palette, ensuring a premium viewing experience.
Best Budget TV for Apple TV 4K
For those on a tighter budget, the TCL 6-Series R635 offers excellent value. It features QLED technology with a Mini-LED backlight, providing great picture quality at a more affordable price point. Its Roku TV smart platform is user-friendly and offers a wide range of streaming options.
Best High-End TV for Apple TV 4K
If budget is less of a concern, the Sony A90J OLED is a top-tier choice. Known for its outstanding picture quality, the A90J also boasts impeccable color accuracy and upscaling capabilities. Its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology delivers immersive sound, complementing its visual prowess.
User Recommendations and Experiences
Discussions on platforms like Reddit and the Apple Support Community provide valuable insights from real users. Many recommend prioritizing picture quality and smart features that complement the Apple TV 4K. User experiences suggest that investing in a TV with good HDR support and low input lag can significantly enhance the overall experience.
Features to Consider
Resolution and HDR Support
4K resolution is a must for Apple TV 4K users. HDR (High Dynamic Range) enhances picture quality by offering more colors, better contrast, and increased brightness. Look for TVs supporting HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG for the best results.
Smart TV OS Compatibility with Apple TV
While the Apple TV 4K comes with its own OS, ensuring your TV’s smart platform can seamlessly integrate with Apple’s ecosystem is essential. Many users prefer TVs with a neutral platform like Roku or Google TV to avoid any compatibility issues.
Input Lag and Refresh Rate for Gaming
Gamers should pay attention to input lag and refresh rate. Lower input lag means faster response times, while a higher refresh rate ensures smoother motion. TVs with HDMI 2.1 support can offer up to a 120Hz refresh rate, ideal for gaming.
Setting Up Your TV with Apple TV 4K
Setting up your TV to work with Apple TV 4K is straightforward. Connect the Apple TV 4K to your TV using an HDMI 2.1 cable for the best experience. Ensure your TV’s firmware is up-to-date and select the appropriate HDMI input. Adjust the settings on your Apple TV 4K to match your TV’s capabilities, especially for HDR and 4K resolution.
Additional Features to Consider
Viewing Angles and Room Lighting
- Viewing Angles: OLED TVs generally offer better viewing angles compared to QLEDs. This is crucial if you often watch TV from different positions in your room.
- Room Lighting: Consider the brightness and glare of your TV in relation to your room’s lighting. QLED TVs usually perform better in bright rooms due to their higher brightness levels.
Audio Quality
- While Apple TV 4K provides excellent video quality, the audio experience is equally important. Look for TVs with good built-in speakers, Dolby Atmos support, or consider investing in a soundbar for an enhanced audio experience.
Smart Features and Connectivity
- Ensure your TV has the latest smart features and connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and enough HDMI ports for all your devices.
Setting Up Apple TV 4K: Advanced Tips
After the basic setup, fine-tune your TV settings for the best experience:
- Calibrate Your TV: Use calibration tools available on your TV to adjust picture settings for optimal quality.
- Enable Match Content: On your Apple TV, enable ‘Match Content’ options to ensure it outputs the correct frame rate and dynamic range.
FAQs
What’s the best TV size for Apple TV 4K?
To find the right size for a 4K TV, measure how far you’ll be sitting from the screen (in inches), divide that number by 2, and that’s roughly the ideal diagonal screen size. So if you’re 12 feet away (144 inches), a 72-inch TV would be good.
Do I need a special HDMI cable for Apple TV 4K?
Yes, use a high-speed HDMI cable capable of handling 4K HDR content for the best experience.
Can I use Apple TV 4K with a non-4K TV?
Yes, but you won’t be able to enjoy 4K content. The Apple TV will output content at the maximum resolution your TV supports.
Is OLED or QLED better for Apple TV 4K?
OLED offers better contrast and black levels, ideal for dark rooms. QLED is brighter and better for well-lit rooms.
How important is HDR for Apple TV 4K?
HDR significantly enhances picture quality by providing higher contrast and more vibrant colors. It’s a key feature for the best viewing experience.
Can I control my Apple TV 4K with my TV remote?
Many TVs support HDMI-CEC, which allows you to control your Apple TV with your TV’s remote.
Should I enable any specific settings on my TV for Apple TV 4K?
Enable HDMI 2.1 features like VRR and ALLM if you’re into gaming. Also, adjust picture settings to suit your preferences.
Does Apple Make An Actual TV?
No, Apple doesn’t make a traditional television set. However, they do offer the Apple TV, a streaming device that connects to your TV and allows you to access a variety of streaming services, apps, and games. It also supports features like AirPlay for screen mirroring and HomeKit for controlling smart home devices.
