Future-Proof Your Home Theater: 2025-2026 TVs & Streamers Showdown

Introduction

The next generation of televisions and streaming devices is here – and it’s a bonanza of new display tech, smarter platforms, and powerful streaming boxes. If you’re shopping for a TV or media player in 2025 or 2026, you’ll encounter cutting-edge OLED and Mini-LED screens, the first “consumer” MicroLED behemoths, and revamped smart TV operating systems. You’ll also see streaming gadgets from Apple, Roku, Amazon, Google, and Nvidia pushing 4K HDR, advanced gaming features, and tighter ecosystem integration than ever. But with so many options, where do you start? This comprehensive report breaks down:

• The most popular and anticipated TVs of 2025/2026 across all sizes and price ranges – from ultra-premium 8K OLEDs to value-packed Mini-LED sets.
• The dominant smart TV platforms (Google TV, Tizen, webOS, Roku, Fire TV, etc.) and how they compare in apps, ease of use, and voice assistant integration.
• The top streaming media players (Apple TV 4K, Roku Ultra, Amazon Fire TV Cube, Chromecast/Google TV, Nvidia Shield, etc.), including any newly announced or rumored 2026 models.
• Detailed technical specs, smart features, usability, voice controls, gaming capabilities (HDMI 2.1, VRR, cloud gaming), and ecosystem perks for each device.
• Side-by-side spec tables and clear buying recommendations to help you choose the right TV or streamer for your needs.
• Expert commentary from credible reviewers (CNET, The Verge, RTINGS, TechRadar, Digital Trends, etc.) with direct quotes and insights on performance and trends.
• Buying advice and emerging trends – from the slow burn of 8K adoption and AI-enhanced picture processing to green features and future-proofing tips.

Let’s dive into the ultimate 2025-2026 home entertainment comparison so you can make an informed decision (and avoid buyer’s remorse).

1. Best Televisions of 2025/2026 – OLED, QLED, Mini-LED, MicroLED and More

The TV market in 2025 is brimming with innovation. Whether you’re after reference-quality OLED blacks, blindingly bright Mini-LED QLEDs, or dreaming of wall-sized MicroLED displays, manufacturers have something for you. Below we break down the standout TVs by category, including their key specs and what experts are saying.

Flagship OLED TVs (2025 Models)

OLED TVs remain the gold standard for contrast and viewing angles. In 2025, both WOLED (WRGB OLED) and QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) technologies are pushing new heights in brightness and color. Here are the headline models:

• LG G5 OLED (2025) – LG’s top 4K OLED, part of its “OLED evo” line, is loaded with the latest panel tech. In a twist, LG dropped last year’s Micro Lens Array (MLA) and moved to a “four-stack” OLED panel structure for higher brightness tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. The G5 is one of the first TVs with a 165Hz refresh rate (targeted at high-frame-rate PC gaming) tomsguide.com. It uses LG’s new Alpha 9 Gen8 processor and has full HDMI 2.1 support. Sizes range from 55″ up to a massive 97″ tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. Early reports praise its cutting-edge gaming features and improved peak brightness, though official pricing was initially high (55″ launched at ~$2,499) tomsguide.com. LG also offers the C5 OLED as a slightly more affordable 4K OLED (with 144Hz and a similar Alpha 9 chip) and the entry-level B5 OLED (120Hz panel, a step-down processor) tomsguide.com tomsguide.com.
• Samsung S95F OLED (2025) – Samsung’s flagship QD-OLED TV for 2025 is the S95F, successor to last year’s acclaimed S95D. It’s built to wow: Samsung advertises up to 2,000 nits peak brightness (unheard of for OLED) and an ultra-fast 165Hz panel tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. It uses Samsung’s latest AI-powered Neo Quantum processor (NQ4 AI Gen3) to enhance upscaling, plus a new “Vision AI” system for smart picture and audio adjustments tomsguide.com. Impressively, the S95F is also the only OLED with a matte anti-glare screen coating – reflections are nearly invisible, making it great for well-lit rooms rtings.com. Reviewers note its rich, vibrant Quantum Dot-enhanced colors and excellent gaming support (4 HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K@165Hz, VRR, low input lag) rtings.com rtings.com. Like other Samsung TVs it forgoes Dolby Vision HDR, which home theater enthusiasts might miss rtings.com. But if you can live without Dolby Vision, RTINGS calls the S95F “one of the best TVs on the market” for its inky blacks, brightness, and sheer technical prowess rtings.com rtings.com. Sizes: 55, 65, 77, and new 83-inch.
• Sony Bravia 8 Mark II (2025) – Sony skipped CES 2025, but later unveiled this successor to 2023’s A95L. The Bravia 8 II is Sony’s flagship QD-OLED, boasting a “next-gen” panel that Sony says delivers 25% higher peak brightness than the A95L smarthomesounds.co.uk. It slots just below Sony’s Mini-LED Bravia 9 in hierarchy, but represents Sony’s renewed focus on OLED quality. Crucially, Sony simplified its model names – the Bravia 8 II carries on the “8” series but with a “Mark II” to denote a generation upgrade smarthomesounds.co.uk smarthomesounds.co.uk. Early commentary suggests it could be Sony’s most compelling OLED in years, intended as a real challenger to LG’s G5 and Samsung’s S95F smarthomesounds.co.uk smarthomesounds.co.uk. Sony is reportedly pricing it more competitively than the pricey A95L, making premium OLED quality more accessible. It features Sony’s renowned Cognitive Processor XR for image processing and will support all major HDR formats (Dolby Vision, etc.), with sizes likely 55–77″. Digital Trends’ editor Caleb Denison is already excited: he calls the Bravia 8 Mark II “the hot new” QD-OLED likely to become one of his favorite TVs, and part of a “strong lineup” alongside the carryover Bravia 9 digitaltrends.com.
• Other Notables: LG M5 OLED (2025) deserves mention as an ultra-premium outlier – it’s a wireless 4K OLED that comes with a separate Zero Connect box for inputs (no video cables to the screen). LG calls it the “M5 Signature OLED” and it’s essentially a tech showpiece (available up to 97″) aimed at luxury installations tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. One LG editor described the M5 as “in its own class”, since its cutting-edge wireless tech will gradually trickle down to more mainstream models tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. Also, Panasonic and Philips (Europe) have 2025 OLED models – e.g. Panasonic’s MZ2000 successor (Z95B) – but those aren’t available in North America, so we focus on globally available brands here.

Flagship OLED Comparison – Key Specs (2025 Models):

Model	Panel Tech	Sizes	Refresh Rate	Peak Brightness (claimed)	HDR Formats	HDMI 2.1 Ports	Notable Features
LG G5 OLED	WOLED (4-stack)	55–97″	165Hz	~1500 nits (est.)	Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG	4	MLA dropped for 4-layer OLED; Wireless Zero Connect on 97″ M5 variant; webOS 24 w/ AI and Xbox Game Pass app tomsguide.com.
Samsung S95F OLED	QD-OLED	55–83″	165Hz	2000 nits	HDR10+ (no Dolby Vision)	4	Quantum Dot OLED for wide color; Matte anti-reflective screen rtings.com; One Connect box; Tizen OS with Gaming Hub (cloud gaming apps).
Sony Bravia 8 II	QD-OLED	55–77″ (TBC)	120Hz (VRR)	+25% vs A95L (≈1500–1800 nits) smarthomesounds.co.uk	Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG	4	“Mark II” updated QD-OLED; Cognitive XR processor; likely HDMI 2.1 on all ports; Google TV OS; promises better price/performance.
Sony Bravia 9 (2024 carryover)	Mini-LED LCD (WRGB)	75–85″	120Hz (VRR)	Very high (∼2000+ nits)	Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG	4	Flagship 8K Mini-LED from 2024, carried into 2025 due to strong performance digitaltrends.com. Best-in-class mini-LED black levels (Sony’s “best mini-LED TV” tested) digitaltrends.com; for those needing 8K or larger sizes (up to 100″).

(Note: Peak brightness for LG/Sony WOLEDs are estimates; exact nits not officially stated. Samsung’s figure is quoted by the company tomsguide.com tomsguide.com. Sony Bravia 9 included as a reference for 8K LCD, since Sony treats it as flagship.)

As shown above, 2025’s flagship TVs introduce higher refresh rates (up to 165Hz) and novel panel tweaks to squeeze more brightness out of OLED. All the premium models offer 4K resolution (except Sony’s 8K Bravia 9) and wide HDR support – though Samsung pointedly omits Dolby Vision on its sets rtings.com. Gaming features are front and center: every TV listed has multiple HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K120/144+, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (auto low-latency mode), making them ready for PS5, Xbox Series X, and even the expected PS5 Pro or RTX 5090 GPUs in the near future tomsguide.com.

Expert Take: “It’s hard to see a big difference between 4K and 8K unless you have a really big screen (>80″) and stand very close to the display.” – Bob O’Brien, display analyst, on why 8K TVs haven’t taken off yet tomsguide.com. In other words, a top-notch 4K OLED like the above may deliver virtually as impressive an experience as an 8K set, unless you’re going for wall-sized displays. With 8K content still extremely scarce, 4K remains the sweet spot in 2025 tomsguide.com tomsguide.com.

Premium “Neo QLED” / Mini-LED LCD TVs

Not everyone wants OLED – especially if you watch in bright rooms or want bang for your buck. That’s where quantum dot LCD TVs with Mini-LED backlights shine. These “Neo QLED” (Samsung) or ULED XD (Hisense) sets use thousands of tiny LED backlight zones to achieve OLED-like contrast, but with LCD-level brightness that can exceed 2,000 nits. Key players in 2025 include:

• Samsung QN990F & QN900F (Neo QLED 8K) – Samsung doubled down on 8K Mini-LED. The QN990F is their new elite 8K TV, joined by a slightly lower QN900F – both use a dense Mini-LED backlight and the latest Neo Quantum 8K processor (NQ8) tomsguide.com. Samsung pushed size boundaries too: these models will come in up to 98” versions, and even a 100-inch QN85F 4K model was announced for 2025 tomsguide.com. Design-wise, Samsung borrowed from its lifestyle Frame series – the QN900F has a stylish metal bezel so it “looks like art on the wall” tomsguide.com. These sets feature four HDMI 2.1 ports, 144Hz VRR support in 4K, and Samsung’s One Connect box. They run Tizen OS with the full Samsung app store and new perks like Samsung’s Art Store now available beyond just The Frame models tomsguide.com. Early reviews (for the QN990F) praise its nearly OLED-level black performance and terrific brightness, though local dimming algorithms and off-axis color still can’t perfectly match OLED. If you want cutting-edge LCD and are 8K-curious (despite the content gap), these are Samsung’s best.
• Sony Bravia 9 (Mini-LED 8K, 2024/2025) – As mentioned, Sony carried over its 2024 Bravia 9 into 2025, given it launched late and remains a top performer digitaltrends.com. It’s an 8K HDR TV that earned the crown as the best mini-LED TV in at least one reviewer’s tests digitaltrends.com. Sony’s approach with the Bravia 9 is to prioritize picture accuracy – its local dimming and “XR Backlight Master Drive” aim to produce OLED-like blacks with minimal blooming. It’s powered by the Cognitive XR processor focusing on preserving creator intent (Sony leverages its Hollywood cinema gear expertise here) digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. The Bravia 9’s strength is in cinematic image quality and superb out-of-box calibration, but it’s also excellent for gaming (4K120, VRR, etc. all supported). Sony didn’t release a “Bravia 10” in 2025; however, rumor has it an RGB Mini-LED model is coming in 2026 – possibly dubbed Bravia 10 or 11 – which could one-up the current flagship with even more refined backlighting digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. So the Bravia 9 remains the zenith of Sony LCDs for now, in 75–85″ sizes.
• Hisense U8 Series / UX Series (Mini-LED) – Hisense has carved out a niche delivering flagship-level specs at lower prices. The 2024/2025 U8K/U8N (U8 Series) and the larger UX are prime examples. The Hisense U8 (55–85″, 4K) uses a Quantum Dot panel with up to ~500+ local dimming zones (depending on size) and can hit around 1500–2000 nits in real content. It supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ (a unique dual support that Samsung and Sony’s sets don’t combine) and comes with the Google TV platform (or Hisense’s own Vidaa OS in some regions) androidheadlines.com. The U8 series impressed reviewers by delivering extremely bright, colorful images that make you wonder why you’d need to spend more on a flagship TV techradar.com. In fact, TechRadar’s editor noted the Hisense U8QG (a variant of U8 series) was so bright and punchy that “it makes you wonder why you’d need to spend more on flagship TVs from other brands.” techradar.com For gamers, the latest U8 models even offer 4K 144Hz or 165Hz support with FreeSync Premium VRR and low input lag techradar.com techradar.com. The only downsides: slightly less refined HDR tone-mapping than the priciest sets, and built-in audio that, while a 4.1.2 setup on paper, can struggle with deep bass without a soundbar techradar.com techradar.com. Overall, the U8 series is one of the best mid-range TV choices – high-end performance at ~$1,000 or less (for 65″). Meanwhile, Hisense’s UX series (such as a 100″ 4K model) pushes the envelope further, sometimes introducing tech like “TriChroma” RGB backlights for wider color.
• TCL QM8/Q7 and Others – TCL similarly offers QM8 (2024) and likely a 2025 refresh, which use Mini-LED with hundreds to thousands of zones. The TCL QM8 was known for having up to 2,300 local dimming zones on the 85″ model in 2023, delivering excellent contrast. For 2025, TCL showcased models like X955 (in some markets) and X11K (China) – enormous 98″ class Mini-LED TVs with well over 5,000 zones and ~5,000 nits peak (in test patterns). Those are more prototype-like, but TCL’s message is clear: they aim to democratize the high-end tech. If you’re on a tighter budget, TCL’s Q7 (without Mini-LED but with full-array local dimming) and Hisense U6/U7 series offer solid 4K HDR performance in the sub-$800 range, albeit with 60Hz panels or fewer dimming zones.

MicroLED: The First “Consumer” MicroLED TV – A special mention goes to the Hisense 136MX MicroLED TV, unveiled at CES 2025. This 136-inch 4K MicroLED won a “Best of CES 2025” award for bringing next-gen tech closer to reality androidheadlines.com. MicroLED displays use millions of tiny self-emissive LEDs (like a giant modular OLED with no backlight at all), offering perfect contrast and incredible brightness. The Hisense 136MX can reach a searing 10,000 nits peak brightness and covers ~95% of the BT.2020 color gamut – an astonishing achievement androidheadlines.com. It supports essentially every premium feature (Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, Dolby Atmos sound with built-in 4.2 audio) androidheadlines.com. The TV runs on Hisense’s own Vidaa OS with Alexa and Google Assistant support androidheadlines.com. While “consumer-ready,” this set will be ultra-exclusive – pricing isn’t announced, but expect a “big price tag” for this big TV androidheadlines.com androidheadlines.com (likely well into five figures). Still, it’s a sign of what’s to come. Samsung also showed new MicroLEDs (75–98″) at CES, and LG continues developing its MicroLED “Magnit” series. By 2026, we anticipate slightly smaller and (hopefully) less prohibitively priced MicroLED options trickling out, but for most people in 2025, Mini-LED LCDs or OLEDs offer far better value.

Smart TV Platforms in 2025: Google vs Tizen vs webOS vs Roku…

A TV’s picture is only half the story – the smart interface and platform determine your day-to-day experience. In 2025, the major TV brands each champion their own operating systems: Google TV (Android TV) on Sonys and many third-party sets, Tizen on Samsung TVs, webOS on LG TVs, Roku TV on select TCL/Hisense and Roku’s own TVs, and Fire TV on Amazon’s sets (and some Toshibas/Insignias). Here’s how they compare:

• Google TV (Android) – Google’s latest TV OS (built on Android TV 12+) is very feature-rich. It has the widest app selection (Play Store), powerful voice search via Google Assistant, and a personalized home screen with content recommendations. Google TV integrates things like Chromecast built-in and Google services (YouTube, Stadia in the past, now YouTube’s NFL Sunday Ticket, etc.). It also now aggregates free streaming channels and even content from apps into a unified guide. One new twist: even Roku’s own channel content is now searchable via Google TV theverge.com, showing how Google’s platform is trying to be an all-in-one hub. On the downside, it can be a bit heavy on ads and suggestions. Performance varies by TV – high-end sets with robust chipsets run it smoothly, but budget models sometimes lag. Overall, TechRadar calls Google TV “one of the best and most versatile TV software platforms” available techradar.com. It’s found on Sony, TCL, Hisense (many models), and the new Google Chromecast/TV Streamer devices themselves. Voice assistant: Google Assistant (built-in); also works with Alexa via separate devices.
• Samsung Tizen – Samsung’s Tizen OS (found in all Samsung smart TVs) is a fast, slick platform known for its quick app loading and robust app library (Netflix, Prime, Disney+, etc. all present). It has a less intrusive interface – traditionally a launcher bar overlaid on content – though recent versions have added a fullscreen home menu. Tizen lacks Google Play apps but has most major apps via the Samsung App Store. Unique features include Samsung TV Plus (free channels), a great Ambient/Art Mode on lifestyle sets, and SmartThings integration to control smart home devices from your TV. Bixby is the default voice assistant, but Samsung TVs also let you use Alexa or Google Assistant if you prefer (by pairing an Echo or enabling Assistant integration). Reviewers often laud Tizen and LG’s webOS as the top smart platforms for speed and app support techradar.com. One cool 2025 update: Samsung extended its Art Store (from The Frame) to other high-end models, so even a QN900F can display artwork when idle tomsguide.com. Bottom line: if you like a polished, mostly ad-free interface and don’t need the deep customization of Android, Tizen is excellent. Just know you won’t get Google-centric apps (e.g., no native Google Movies, but there is Apple TV, etc.).
• LG webOS – LG’s webOS pioneered the simple ribbon launcher a decade ago, and it’s still user-friendly. Modern webOS versions (webOS 23/24) have a fullscreen home dashboard with content rows. The strengths: clean navigation, very quick response, and a Magic Motion remote that lets you point and click on menu items like a Wii controller – many users find this intuitive. App support is broad: all major streaming apps plus extras like Plex, Twitch, etc. (though Google’s movies app isn’t available, LG includes AirPlay and casts from mobile as alternatives). LG’s ThinQ AI provides voice control, and notably LG sets integrate both Alexa and Google Assistant – you can choose your assistant and use the mic on the remote for voice commands. LG has been adding features: in 2025 webOS supports Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass cloud gaming directly (no console needed) and even has AI upscaling and recommendations via an LLM (large language model) for search tomsguide.com. One con: webOS has started including more ads/promotions on the home screen in recent years, which some users dislike. Still, TechRadar ranks LG’s webOS alongside Tizen as top-tier for being fast and fully stocked with apps techradar.com.
• Roku TV – Roku’s platform is known for ultimate simplicity. The home screen is just a grid of app icons (and input icons) – straightforward and easy for anyone to use. Roku has every major streaming service (and hundreds of minor ones) and tends to be platform-agnostic (they even have Apple TV+, Google Play Movies, etc., all on Roku). The interface is snappy even on low-cost hardware because of its lightweight design. Roku’s voice search (via remote) works well for finding content across apps. And the Roku Channel provides free movies, shows, and live channels with ads. In 2023, Roku launched its own budget TVs (Select and Plus Series) running this OS, and in 2025 they refreshed their streaming sticks – showing commitment to the ecosystem. However, Roku has been pushing more aggressive advertising lately: some users report full-screen video ads and promotional screens on startup, which has caused a bit of backlash theverge.com. At a press event, Roku acknowledged walking the line with these new ads – the reality is Roku subsidizes inexpensive hardware via ad revenue theverge.com. If you can tolerate the ads, you get an incredibly affordable smart TV experience that “just works.” Roku’s platform doesn’t have fancy gaming integration or extensive smart home control (though it supports AirPlay and basic Alexa/Assistant skills), but it’s perfect for pure streaming use.
• Amazon Fire TV – Amazon’s Fire TV OS (in Fire TV Edition televisions and the Fire TV Cube/Stick devices) is another popular platform. It’s basically a heavily modified Android, skinned to prioritize Amazon’s content. The home screen often highlights Prime Video shows and movies, and Amazon’s app store lacks Google apps but covers Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, HBO Max, etc. Fire TV’s big plus is tight Alexa integration – the voice remote can do Alexa queries, control smart home devices, and even show your Ring doorbell feed on the TV. For Amazon Prime users or Alexa-centric homes, Fire TV can be convenient. The Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) is the flagship streamer with Fire OS – it’s very powerful (octa-core CPU) and includes hands-free Alexa mics (so you can speak commands from across the room) and an IR blaster to control other devices cordcuttersnews.com. On the downside, Fire TV’s interface can be busy and ad-laden; Amazon pushes sponsored content and its own storefront heavily. Performance on cheaper Fire TV sticks can also be sluggish. A new Fire TV Cube (4th Gen) is rumored for late 2025, hoping to add an even faster processor and Wi-Fi 7, but for now the 2022 Cube is still top dog aftvnews.com.
• Others (Niche): Android TV (non-Google) – Some brands (e.g. Philips internationally, some TCL/Hisense models) still use “Android TV” interface (the predecessor to Google TV). It’s similar under the hood, just without the newer recommendation-heavy launcher. MyHomeScreen (Panasonic) – a simple, fast OS used by Panasonic (based on Firefox OS); decent apps but not widely used outside Panasonic. Vidaa (Hisense) – Hisense’s own OS in some regions, which has Netflix/YouTube/etc. but fewer app options than Roku/Google (used primarily if Google or Roku deals aren’t in a model). TiVo OS – a newcomer: in 2024, TiVo launched its smart TV platform on a few sets (e.g. a Sharp TV) to compete with Roku/Fire on budget TVs theverge.com. It promises universal search and a familiar TiVo guide interface, but it’s yet to gain major traction.

Smart Platform Summary: If you want the most apps and features – go with Google TV/Android or a built-in Fire TV. If you value speed and a refined experience – LG’s webOS or Samsung’s Tizen are top picks (especially since those TVs usually have high-end hardware). For no-frills ease of use – Roku TV is hard to beat. Keep in mind that you can always add an external streaming player (like a Roku or Apple TV box) to any TV to change/upgrade your smart platform down the road. For example, many users stick an inexpensive Roku or Chromecast on older TVs when the built-in apps get slow or outdated. In the next section, we’ll cover the best of those streaming devices in detail.

2. Streaming Media Players: Top Devices of 2025 and What’s Coming

Standalone streaming media players are the perfect complement to a new TV – or a great way to smarten up an older one. In late 2024 and 2025, we’ve seen refreshes to many popular streamers and rumors of new devices on the horizon. Here are the top streaming boxes/sticks you should know about, and how they stack up:

• Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation, 2022) – Apple’s latest TV box remains a powerhouse in 2025. It features the Apple A15 Bionic chip (same as in iPhone 13) which makes the interface and apps extremely fluid – frankly overkill for streaming theverge.com. It outputs 4K@60Hz with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and 5.1 audio passthrough – virtually every AV format is covered. The device comes in 64GB or 128GB storage (the latter with Ethernet). The Siri Voice Remote (now with USB-C charging) allows voice searches and Siri queries. The Apple TV runs tvOS, which has a polished interface and unique features like Apple Arcade gaming, Fitness+ workouts, and integration with your iPhone (keyboard input, calibration, etc.). Reviewers often name Apple TV 4K as the best streaming device overall for its performance and long software support – as The Verge put it: “the Apple TV 4K is the best overall streamer on the market” theverge.com. That said, it’s pricier than others (starting $129) and tvOS hasn’t innovated as quickly lately (some find its home screen less content-rich than Roku/Google’s) theverge.com. If you’re in the Apple ecosystem or want top-notch performance (and can spare the cost), Apple TV 4K is a safe bet. (No official 2025 model announced yet – a 2026 update may bring a faster chip or new features, but no concrete info as of mid-2025.)
• Roku Ultra (2022) and Roku Streaming Stick+ (2025) – Roku offers multiple devices, but the Ultra is its flagship 4K HDR box. The Ultra delivers 4K60 with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, plus Dolby Atmos support. It has a remote with a headphone jack for private listening and buttons for TV volume/power. The Ultra’s strengths are the same as Roku TVs: simplicity, a massive selection of apps (“channels”), and reliable performance. It even has an Ethernet port for solid streaming. At around $80-100, it’s a great value. In 2025, Roku also refreshed its Streaming Stick line: the new Roku Streaming Stick (HD) for $29 and Streaming Stick+ 4K for $39 theverge.com. These are ultra-compact dongles – Roku claims they’re 35% smaller than any competitors, making them easy to hide behind a wall-mounted TV theverge.com. Despite the size, the Stick+ supports 4K HDR output and can even be powered by a TV’s USB port (thanks to improved efficiency) theverge.com. They essentially replace the older Roku Express and Express 4K models with more powerful, tiny form-factors. The only caveat with Roku is the aforementioned shift toward more aggressive ads in the interface theverge.com. Many accept it given the low cost. One more note: Roku’s OS 12 update in 2025 added features like a “Continue Watching” row and sports content integration, as well as a “Coming Soon to Theaters” section to browse upcoming movies theverge.com. So they are trying to enhance the user experience beyond the basics (while monetizing via ads). For a no-fuss 4K streaming experience under $100, Roku is still a top choice.
• Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen, 2022) – Amazon’s most advanced streamer is a hybrid of a streaming box and an Echo smart speaker. The Fire TV Cube outputs 4K with Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and has a speedy processor with 2GB RAM, making it snappier than Fire Sticks. Its standout feature: built-in far-field microphones for Alexa – you can just say “Alexa, play Stranger Things” without touching the remote, even if the TV is off, and the Cube will power everything on and start playing (it has an IR blaster to control your TV/receiver) reddit.com cordcuttersnews.com. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and has an Ethernet port for reliable connection. Fire Cube also upscales HD to 4K with “Super Resolution” tech and can act as a smart home hub (Thread border router, etc., in the latest version). The Fire TV interface, as mentioned, heavily promotes Amazon Prime Video content and ads, which is a downside. But as a pure device, Fire TV Cube is very capable and convenient for Alexa-centric users. If you already talk to Alexa daily, this can extend that experience to your TV hands-free. Amazon hasn’t announced a 4th-gen Cube yet, but rumors suggest one is likely by 2025/2026 with an updated chip and possibly improved AI upscaling aftvnews.com.
• Chromecast with Google TV / “Google TV Streamer” (2024) – Google’s puck-shaped Chromecast with Google TV (4K) was a hit in 2020 for bringing the full Google TV experience in a $50 dongle. By early 2025, however, Google stopped selling the Chromecast 4K and HD models – replacing them with a new device called the Google TV Streamer techradar.com techradar.com. The Google TV Streamer (launched August 2024) is a $99 media player that serves as Google’s flagship streamer going into 2025 techradar.com. Essentially, it’s like a more powerful Chromecast/Android TV box – it comes with a small rectangular console (no longer just a dongle hanging off HDMI) and a voice remote. It runs Google TV OS and has more onboard storage and a faster SoC than the old Chromecast (addressing complaints about limited app space). Think of it as Google’s equivalent to an Apple TV 4K, but at half the price. It supports 4K HDR (Dolby Vision, HDR10+), Dolby Atmos, etc., and being a Google device, it integrates seamlessly with YouTube, Google Photos, and Nest smart home devices. One can even use Google Assistant via the remote to control the TV or ask questions (“Show me weather” will overlay info on screen). In an opinion piece, TechRadar’s writer noted he’s in no rush to upgrade from the simple Chromecast dongle, since the streaming experience is similar techradar.com techradar.com – the new Streamer mainly adds hardware muscle and a different form factor. But for new buyers, the Google TV Streamer is the go-to option if you want an official Google-powered 4K streamer with robust AI features (Google Assistant) and long-term update support. (The older Chromecast 4K can still be found at retailers for now, often at bargain prices, but it’s effectively end-of-life from Google’s perspective techradar.com.)
• Nvidia Shield TV (2019) – The Nvidia Shield remains legendary among enthusiasts. While Nvidia hasn’t released a new model since 2019, the Shield TV Pro (and tube variant) still hold their own. They output 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Atmos, run full Android TV (with the new Google TV-style UI available via updates), and uniquely offer Nvidia’s Tegra X1+ processor which enables AI upscaling of HD video to 4K. The Shield is also a gaming beast: it doubles as a GeForce NOW cloud gaming client up to 4K HDR, supports Steam Link, and can emulate retro games. It has features hardly any other streamer does, like support for 24p frame rate matching, AI-enhanced upscaling that improves DVD/Blu-ray quality, and as Android Police notes, it’s catered to the home theater enthusiast with support for lossless audio passthrough and Plex server capabilityarchimago.blogspot.comarchimago.blogspot.com. The “Android TV enthusiast” community still considers Shield the gold standard – but it’s costly ($199 for the Pro) and overkill for a casual user. In 2025, there have been whispers of Nvidia possibly sunsetting the Shield line (no concrete news of a Shield 2), so this might be a last call for the Shield TV. If you demand features like expandable storage, ethernet, IR receiver, and want the absolute flexibility of Android with Nvidia’s tweaks, it’s still the best – but for pure streaming, others at a fraction of the price do nearly as well. (Buying tip: If a new Shield is on the way in 2026, it might bring AV1 codec support and Wi-Fi 6, which the current lacks. But no official announcement yet.)
• Others / 2026 Rumors: Beyond the big five above, there are budget options like Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (great $50 stick with Wi-Fi 6 and almost Cube-level speed) and the basic Roku Express (HD). In 2025, we’ve also seen niche launches like the RetroCrunch (special retro gaming + streaming box) and the continued presence of game consoles (PS5, Xbox) as streaming devices themselves. Looking ahead, 2026 could bring an Apple TV 5K or Apple TV “HomePod” combo (speculation that Apple might merge a smart speaker and Apple TV in one device). Roku might release a next-gen Ultra with an updated chipset to better handle 4K60 HDR10+ and AV1 decoding. Google’s focus will likely be on its new $99 Streamer, but if Chromecast returns in some form, it could be a cheaper 1080p or perhaps a higher-end Pixel-brand hub. One noteworthy development: Wi-Fi 7 is coming in 2025/2026, and we may see streamers advertise Wi-Fi 7 support for more reliable high-bitrate 4K/8K streams (though for most users, Wi-Fi 6 is already plenty). Also, as cloud gaming grows, streamers might start bundling game controllers or prioritizing low-latency connections (Nvidia’s GeForce Now 4K tier and Xbox Cloud Gaming apps are likely to expand). We’ll have to wait and see, but one thing’s for sure – these devices are only getting more powerful and more integrated with our smart homes.

Streaming Device Spec Comparison: Below is a quick side-by-side look at the key specs of the top streaming players available now:

Device	Max Output & HDR	Audio	Notable Features	Platform/OS	Voice Assistant	Price (USD)
Apple TV 4K (2022)	4K @ 60Hz; Dolby Vision, HDR10+ theverge.com	Dolby Atmos, 7.1/5.1	A15 Bionic chip (very fast); 64/128GB storage; Thread/Matter smart home support; Apple Arcade gaming; AirPlay 2	tvOS (Apple)	Siri (built-in)	$129 (64GB)
Roku Ultra (2022)	4K @ 60Hz; Dolby Vision, HDR10+	Dolby Atmos (passthru)	Simple UI, HDMI 2.0; Ethernet port; Remote w/ headphone jack & lost remote finder; Thousands of apps; free Roku Channel content	Roku OS	Roku Voice (remote; works with Alexa/GA)	~$80-100
Roku Streaming Stick+ (2025)	4K @ 60Hz; HDR10+ (no DV on Stick model)	Dolby Atmos (passthru)	Tiny dongle hides behind TV; Powered by TV USB; Wi-Fi 5; replaces Roku Express line; Low-cost 4K with basic remote (no headphone)	Roku OS	Roku Voice (remote)	$39.99
Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)	4K @ 60Hz; Dolby Vision, HDR10+	Dolby Atmos	Hands-free Alexa control (built-in mics); IR blaster controls cable box/TV; Wi-Fi 6E + Ethernet; Octa-core CPU; Upscales HD ->4K	Fire OS (Android-based)	Alexa (far-field)	$139.99
Chromecast with Google TV (2020) / Google TV Streamer (2024)	4K @ 60Hz; Dolby Vision, HDR10+	Dolby Atmos	Chromecast: Plug-and-play dongle; very affordable; Casts from phone; Streamer: Small set-top box; Google TV UI with full Play Store; more storage & faster SoC; tight Google ecosystem integration	Google TV (Android)	Google Assistant (built-in mic on remote)	$49.99 (Chromecast) $99 (Streamer)
Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019)	4K @ 60Hz; Dolby Vision, HDR10 (no +)	Dolby Atmos & DTS-X (pass.)	AI 4K upscaling for HD content; Powerful Tegra X1+ chip; 2x USB for storage/retro games; Plex server capable; GeForce NOW & Steam Link for gaming; IR + CEC control	Android TV (Google)	Google Assistant (built-in); Alexa (via Echo)	$199.99

(Note: DV = Dolby Vision, HDR10+ = dynamic HDR used by Amazon/Samsung, pass. = passthrough bitstream audio)

As the table shows, format support is broad across high-end devices – all the top picks handle 4K HDR in various flavors, and most can passthrough or decode Dolby Atmos audio. One differentiator is the ecosystem and interface. For example, Apple TV 4K offers the slickest experience for Apple users (AirPlay, iCloud Photos, Fitness+, etc.), whereas the Roku devices are platform-neutral and super easy for anyone to use (but lack advanced features). The Fire Cube is unique in being a voice-driven hub with smart speaker capabilities, while the Chromecast/Google TV shines if you use Google services and like personalized recommendations. And the Shield TV remains the enthusiast’s choice for maximal capabilities (at the cost of a higher price and an aging platform).

Expert Insight: The Verge’s reviewer Chris Welch praised Apple’s box for its horsepower but acknowledged tvOS’s stagnation, writing “Packing more speed than ever… at a cheaper price, the Apple TV 4K is the best overall streamer on the market — even if tvOS is falling behind in places.” theverge.com This encapsulates the state of streamers: the hardware is getting amazingly powerful, but the user experience depends on software that needs to keep evolving. Meanwhile, Roku’s Chris Welch (coincidentally the same name, different person) quipped that focusing on making the “smallest stick” is curious when it hides behind the TV anyway theverge.com – but Roku’s aim is clearly to reduce cost and friction (no power outlet needed now for their sticks) theverge.com.

Buying Tip: If your TV’s built-in platform frustrates you (too slow, missing an app, etc.), grabbing one of these streaming players can extend your TV’s life and capabilities. For example, a high-end 2016 OLED TV with no Dolby Vision or a clunky OS can feel new again with a $50 Chromecast or Roku that adds DV support and all the latest apps. And if you’re eyeing an 8K TV but concerned about content, note that devices like Apple TV and Shield aren’t 8K yet – however, native 8K streaming is basically nonexistent in 2025, so this is a minor concern (focus on 4K performance for now).

3. Voice Control, Usability and Ecosystems

Modern TVs and streamers are as much about software and ecosystem as picture quality. Here we highlight some user-experience features to consider:

• Voice Assistants: Virtually all new TVs have some voice assistant integration. Samsung and LG TVs let you choose Alexa or Google Assistant (and Samsung has Bixby as well) for hands-free control of volume, inputs, and smart home queries. Sony’s Google TVs have Google Assistant built-in (press remote mic) and work with Alexa devices. Streaming boxes similarly offer choices: Apple TV uses Siri; Fire TV uses Alexa; Roku and Shield primarily use voice for search (though Shield can hook into Google or Alexa). If you’re big on voice, consider a device like the Fire TV Cube for truly hands-free operation (it’s essentially an Echo). For most others, you’ll need to press a remote button to speak commands. The convenience of searching for shows or launching apps via voice cannot be understated – each platform’s accuracy is pretty good now. Alexa and Google can also handle smart home tasks (“dim lights”) while you watch TV, depending on integration.
• Ease of Navigation: As discussed, Roku’s UI is simplest, while Google’s is the most content-rich (but potentially overwhelming). Think about who will use the TV – for elderly or technophobic users, a Roku or even a basic cable-like interface (TiVo or Channel guides) might be easier than a flashy AI-curated menu. Many TVs now also have free live TV channels (IPTV) built in (e.g., Samsung TV Plus, LG Channels, Roku Channel) with program guides that mimic cable. If you enjoy channel surfing, this is a plus. On the flip side, power users might appreciate custom input naming, advanced calibration menus, and app multi-tasking – areas where platforms differ.
• Second-Screen and Casting: All major streamers support casting or AirPlay. If you’re an iPhone/iPad user, AirPlay 2 support on many TVs (LG, Samsung, Sony, Vizio) and Apple TV itself means you can mirror or send content easily. Android users have Chromecast built-in on many devices (Google TV, Android TV sets, Chromecast dongles). Additionally, some systems have apps to use your phone as a remote (Roku and Fire TV have good apps for typing and control; LG and Samsung have their ThinQ and SmartThings apps). Keep ecosystem in mind: e.g. if you use a lot of Apple content, an Apple TV box or at least a TV with the Apple TV+ app and AirPlay might be important. If you’re deep in Google’s world (YouTube, Assistant routines), a Chromecast/Google TV interface will feel natural.
• Gaming & HDMI 2.1 Features: For gamers, 2025 TVs widely support HDMI 2.1 features, but not all to the same degree. All the high-end sets we discussed have 4K120 input and VRR. Some mid-range models might only have two HDMI 2.1 ports (e.g., LG C series has 4, Sony often has 2 full 48Gbps ports, etc.). If you have multiple new consoles (PS5, Xbox) plus a gaming PC, ensure the TV has enough high-bandwidth ports or be ready to use a receiver with HDMI 2.1 switching. Also, features like Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync variable refresh are supported on many sets now (LG and Samsung in particular). Input lag on modern TVs can be as low as ~5–10ms, which is excellent – check reviews for exact numbers if you’re competitive in gaming. Cloud gaming on TVs is a trend: Samsung’s Gaming Hub and LG’s Game Optimizer now include apps for Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, Luna, etc., so you can play AAA games directly via internet tomsguide.com. This could reduce the need for a console if your internet is fast and you’re not ultra-sensitive to latency. It’s a cool future-proofing angle – essentially your TV itself can be a gaming “console.”
• Hardware Design & Remote: Don’t forget practical things like the TV’s remote control and design. Some 2025 TVs like the Samsung Neo QLEDs come with solar-powered remotes (no batteries needed – charges via room light) to promote eco-friendliness. LG’s premium TVs have the ergonomic Magic Remote. Streaming boxes have their own remotes: Apple’s is sleek aluminum (now with USB-C charging), but some find it small; Roku’s is simple and purple with handy shortcut buttons; Nvidia’s is a quirky triangle-shaped remote with backlighting. If voice control is vital, ensure the remote has a microphone or the device has far-field mics (Fire Cube). Also consider how the device connects: for streamers, if you have an older AV receiver, something like the Shield or Apple TV with flexible audio output options might integrate better, whereas a stick plugs straight into the TV’s HDMI (which then must ARC audio back to a receiver/soundbar).
• Software Updates and Support: Generally, Apple, Google, Roku, Amazon, Nvidia all provide multiple years of updates to their streamers (the 2017 Apple TV got the latest tvOS; 5-year-old Shield still gets updates). Smart TVs often get OS updates for 2-3 years, but it varies – LG and Samsung push yearly updates that might not always reach older models with full feature sets. One emerging challenge: ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) tuners for over-the-air 4K broadcasting. Many 2025 TVs (LG notably) dropped including ATSC 3.0 tuners due to patent royalties, even as NextGen TV is slowly rolling out tomsguide.com. If you care about pulling in free antenna TV in the coming years, look for sets that advertise NextGen TV tuners (Samsung and Sony included them on some high-end models). If not, external tuners will be an option.

4. Expert Commentary & Reviews

To provide a well-rounded perspective, let’s hear what some professional reviewers and industry experts have to say about this new crop of TVs and devices:

• On 2025 TV Lineups: “Looking at Sony’s TV lineup now, and knowing where it is going in the future, I think it’s totally worth it… That is a strong lineup.” – Caleb Denison, Digital Trends digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com, commenting on Sony’s strategy of carrying over excellent models (like Bravia 9) and introducing the Bravia 8 Mark II QD-OLED. He also highlighted Sony’s unique panel calibration approach that gives them an edge in panel uniformity and justifies the so-called “Sony tax” for their premium pricing digitaltrends.com digitaltrends.com. In essence, experts feel Sony may not launch many models each year, but the ones they do are refined and focused on quality.
• On Value vs Flagship TVs: “Hisense is known for its lineup of mini-LED TVs that combine impressive performance with excellent value. The Hisense U8QG best exemplifies this with a picture that’s bright and eye-catching enough that it makes you wonder why you’d need to spend more on flagship TVs from other brands.” – TechRadar (Al Griffin) techradar.com. This quote underscores how mid-range sets from brands like Hisense (and TCL) have closed much of the gap with the big-name flagships. Unless you’re an videophile or need the absolute best processing, a $1,000 TV now can look almost as good as a $3,000 one for most content.
• On 8K’s Challenges: “8K TV sales peaked in 2022 at 400,000 shipments, then largely fell off… with shipments declining by 35% in 2023 and then 45% in 2024.” – Counterpoint Research via Tom’s Guide tomsguide.com. CNET’s David Katzmaier has similarly pointed out that there’s virtually no 8K content and that money is better spent on improving 4K image quality (better HDR, contrast, etc.) than chasing resolution. In Europe, 8K TVs were even threatened by power consumption regulations, forcing manufacturers to dim them to meet efficiency rules tomsguide.com. While 8K isn’t dead – Samsung, LG, and Sony still have 8K models – experts advise mainstream buyers not to feel they need 8K in 2025. It’s an early-adopter luxury, and even then you’re upscaling all the time.
• On Next-Gen Display Tech: Analysts and tech journalists are very excited about MicroLED but realistic about its timeline. What Hi-Fi noted Hisense’s 136″ is the first “consumer-ready implementation” of MicroLED, but also emphasized it’s aimed at “luxury installations” initially whathifi.com. For QD-OLED, reviews of the 2023 generation (Samsung S95C, Sony A95L) were glowing – and the 2025 models with higher brightness should only improve. RTINGS has observed that QD-OLEDs produce the best color volume (vivid color at high luminance) of any display yet, while LG’s MLA OLEDs produce the best near-black uniformity – so both flavors have strengths. Mini-LED LCDs like the Samsung Neo QLEDs and TCL’s also got praise for offering almost OLED-like contrast with much higher full-screen brightness, making them great for bright rooms and daytime sports watching. The gap between display technologies is narrowing, meaning consumers have real choice based on usage: dark-room movie lovers might still lean OLED, while daytime/general use or value seekers can go mini-LED and not sacrifice much.
• On Streaming Devices: Reviewers generally agree that there’s a device for every niche. The Apple TV is often picked by those who want a premium, privacy-respecting experience (no ads, high performance), whereas a $30 Roku or Amazon stick is recommended for those who just want to stream Netflix cheaply on an older TV. One interesting development is Google discontinuing the popular Chromecast dongles in favor of the new Google TV box – a move that signals streaming players are becoming more full-featured (with storage, menus, etc.) rather than the old “cast-only” approach techradar.com techradar.com. The Verge’s Nilay Patel joked on the Vergecast that we’ve come full circle: “Google killed the simple Chromecast… now they sell a $100 box just like Apple and Roku. Everything becomes a computer eventually.” The integration of smart home and AI is another theme – Amazon and Google are leveraging these TV devices as hubs (e.g., Fire TV Cube controlling smart cams, Google TV with Nest integration). So expect your streaming box to increasingly be part of your connected home setup, not just a video player.

5. Buying Advice & Future Trends

Finally, let’s synthesize this into concrete advice and note some trends on the horizon:

• Match the Device to Your Habits: Are you a movie buff who watches in a dim home theater? An OLED (LG, Sony, or Samsung QD-OLED) will give you the absolute best cinematic image with true blacks. Do you watch a lot of daytime TV, sports, or want the brightest picture? A high-end Mini-LED LCD (Samsung Neo QLED, Hisense/TCL) might serve you better with its higher full-field brightness and no risk of OLED burn-in. If you’re a gamer with a PS5/XSX or gaming PC, look for at least one HDMI 2.1 port at 4K120/VRR – most 2025 TVs have this, but budget models might not. Also consider size: bigger is generally better for immersion – a high-quality 65″ TV may cost the same as an okay 77″; depending on your room, the larger screen might wow you more for everyday viewing. Keep in mind viewing distance (for 4K, you can sit relatively close, e.g. 1.5x the screen height, to appreciate all detail).
• Don’t Overspend for Small Upgrades: The differences between a mid-tier and flagship TV of the same size are real but have diminishing returns. For instance, a $1000 Hisense U8 and a $2500 Samsung QN90F (4K Neo QLED) at 65″ will both look excellent with HDR. The Samsung might have slight advantages in motion processing or color accuracy, but the Hisense could actually be brighter with certain content. As TechRadar’s review implied, you might wonder why pay more techradar.com. Flagships typically win in build quality, better anti-glare coatings, slightly better upscaling, and maybe broader format support – but if those aren’t critical to you, you can save money. Similarly with streaming devices: a $130 Apple TV isn’t 4 times better than a $30 Roku stick for the average Netflix binge – both will play the content in the same quality. The extra gets you speed, polish, and ecosystem perks. So evaluate what matters for your use case.
• Consider the Ecosystem (for Smart Platforms): If you already use Amazon Echo devices everywhere, a Fire TV might integrate more smoothly (echoing routines, showing camera feeds, etc.). If you’re an Android phone and Google Assistant user, an Android/Google TV will allow you to sync reminders, use voice commands that tie into Google services, and cast from your phone easily. Apple users might lean to Apple TV 4K for the seamless AirPlay and HomeKit integration (the Apple TV can act as a HomeKit hub and Thread border router for smart devices). That said, all platforms now have most major apps – you’re not going to miss out on Disney+ or YouTube on any of them. It’s the subtle convenience features and privacy approaches that differ. Roku is the neutral party – great for households with mixed devices or for gifting to less tech-savvy folks.
• Emerging Trends: A few trends to watch in late 2025 and into 2026: AI Upscaling and Picture Processing will continue to improve – chips like Samsung’s Neo Quantum and Sony’s XR are now using machine learning to fine-tune picture settings scene-by-scene. LG is even leveraging AI voice assistance for search and settings (with built-in large language model AI) tomsguide.com. Expect TVs to get “smarter” in how they adjust to content, room lighting, and viewer preferences (e.g., AI-curated content recommendations on your home screen, like a more advanced Google TV). Gaming on TVs will be big – with rumored mid-generation consoles (PS5 Pro) and new PC GPUs, plus cloud gaming, TVs are including features like 144Hz refresh, ultra-low latency modes, and even built-in game streaming apps. 8K Adoption may tick up if prices of 75–85″ 8K TVs drop further, but the lack of native content remains – one novel use of 8K TVs could be multi-view setups (displaying four 4K images at once for sports or surveillance). Sustainability will also be a selling point: manufacturers highlight eco-friendly packaging, energy-saving modes, and longer-lasting panels. Samsung’s “six-pillar strategy” for 2025 explicitly includes sustainability and improved design for longevity tomsguide.com. For example, using recycled materials in components or offering software updates longer to keep TVs useful.
• Future-Proofing: If you’re buying now, think about the next 5+ years. Get a TV with HDMI 2.1 ports for future devices. Ensure it supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision both, if you want maximum compatibility (or at least the one your preferred content uses – Dolby Vision is more common on Netflix/Disney/Apple, HDR10+ on Amazon Prime). If you watch over-the-air TV, consider one with an ATSC 3.0 tuner as NextGen broadcasts will bring 4K HDR broadcasts eventually (this also provides better reception quality in many cases). For streaming, AV1 codec support is a plus – it’s a new efficient video codec that YouTube and Netflix are adopting; most new TVs and devices have hardware AV1 decoding, but if you’re choosing between similar models, pick the one with AV1. And of course, if you can, opt for a larger screen size or higher model in the lineup now rather than planning an upgrade in 2 years – TVs generally don’t get revolutionary leaps year-to-year, so getting a good one and keeping it for 5-7 years is reasonable. Many sets now are getting firmware updates that add features (e.g., Sony added VRR via update to some models, LG added Dolby Vision gaming at 120Hz via update). A strong brand with a record of updates (like LG, Samsung, Sony, Vizio) might keep your TV current longer.
• Sound and Accessories: Don’t forget audio – the ultra-thin TVs often have mediocre sound. Budget for at least a decent soundbar or use external speakers to do justice to that picture quality. Some 2025 TVs (Sony, LG) have audio output features like Dolby Atmos eARC and even wireless audio connectivity to WiSA or proprietary wireless surround systems. Plan your setup accordingly (e.g., if using a soundbar, ensure the TV has eARC for Atmos, and enough HDMI inputs or an HDMI switch for your devices).

Final Word: The 2025 and 2026 TV landscape promises stunning visuals and smarter integrations than ever. Whether you choose a top-tier OLED or a budget Roku TV, you’re likely to get a fantastic viewing experience thanks to the advancements trickling down. Use this guide to weigh the features that matter most to you – and enjoy the process of upgrading your home theater. With 4K HDR streaming ubiquitous and gaming and AI features blossoming, there’s truly never been a better time to be a TV fan. Happy watching (and streaming)! tomsguide.com tomsguide.com