Updated

Finding the Best TV

PriceRunner

Purchasing a TV is an investment that requires some thought. Unsure which TV is the right for you? We've got you covered. Our guide makes it easier to choose the best TV based on your needs.

What to look for in a good TV

For many, finding a good TV seems quite challenging with all the tech breakthroughs and a sea of models to choose from. Gone are the days when a trip to the local electronics store (and a persuasive salesperson!) would end up landing you with a pricier TV than you planned.

Nowadays, you can easily compare models, features and prices online. So, here are some key considerations to keep in mind before investing in a new TV:

Price. Start with a fixed budget, then see what's available within that range. The temptation of new technologies, like promises of razor-sharp picture quality and cinema sound, can be strong, but a fixed budget keeps you grounded.
Display size. Consider the room's size and viewing distance–the key to choosing the right display size.
Display technology. LCD, LED, OLED or QLED–what display technology to go for? While the latest technologies might be hard to resist, they're often pricier.
Resolution. HD, Full HD, 4K or 8K–the choice is yours. Just remember: the larger the screen, the higher the resolution for the best picture quality.
Connectivity. Need to link Chromecast, a sound bar or game consoles to your TV? Look for the connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Sound quality. If you don't plan for external sound devices, ensure your TV's built-in system delivers quality sound.

Dad and son watch sports on TV

TV matching your viewing habits

In a nutshell, your budget and desired TV size matter the most. But don't forget about other factors unique to your needs.

Sports

If you're a sports fan, keep an eye on:

Refresh rate. Speedy movements in sports ask for a screen with a high refresh rate to keep up with the action.
High Dynamic Range (HDR). Experience sports like never–HDR offers better contrast, vivid colours and super-detailed sports action.

Music

Love watching concerts or music videos? Then the sound quality is the key. But also:

Colour accuracy and contrast. For a rich viewing experience, choose a TV with excellent colour accuracy and contrast. And with Local Dimming, you can watch darker scenes come to life in low light.
High Dynamic Range (HDR). HDR isn't just for sports. Think brighter, bolder visuals in music videos–making those eye-catching special effects even more stunning.

Shop HDR TVs with Local Dimming

Movies and series

If you're big on streaming, choose a TV that supports app downloading. You'll enjoy seamless control with the remote, minus any extra gadgets. And of course, don't forget about:

Quality sound. Or compatibility with external speakers.
Fast refresh rate. Keeps the picture clear and sharp.
High Dynamic Range (HDR). Ensures the ultimate picture quality.

A young woman watching TV

TV matching your budget

Flat TVs come with a wide range of prices. Whether you're after a budget-friendly option for a couple hundred pounds or a premium TV that can reach well over £3,500, there's something for everyone. To help you decide, let's look at 3 options matching different budgets.

TVs under £400

Looking for a large-display TV for £400? These often come with limited features and some image quality trade-offs. For premium features, you might have to settle for a smaller size.

It's worth noting that models available for under £400 today deliver superior performance compared to older TVs. Thanks to fast-evolving tech, yesterday's premium models often struggle to keep up with today's budget-friendly options.

Shop TVs under £400

TVs for £400–£1,500

The mid-range TVs usually feature larger displays (between 50"-70"). They bring superior picture quality, extra functionalities, new tech and sleeker designs, surpassing more budget-friendly models. TVs in this range offer the best value for your money–unless you're after an ultra-large TV.

Shop TVs for £400–£1,500

TVs over £1,500

TVs within this price range typically boast cutting-edge technology and exclusive designs. They feature 65" displays or larger, powered by high-performance processors for impeccable image quality. Plus, they're often packed with additional features, connectivity options and noticeably superior sound.

Shop TVs over £1,500

Here's a selection of popular TVs across different price ranges:

Choosing the right TV size

The size of your TV mainly depends on what you prefer — and, of course, your budget.

Each TV model comes with specific recommended viewing distances and angles. So, before you make the choice, make sure the TV you pick complements the space where you'll be setting it up.

Some general tips can guide you when choosing a TV size. Think about where you'll place the TV and your distance from it when viewing. If you're sitting close, a smaller display makes more sense. In contrast, a larger display is ideal for sitting farther away.

For a superior viewing experience, it's best to have a TV encompassing about 30-40% of your field of vision.

To pick the right TV size, use this rule: 25" TV for every metre of viewing distance. So, if you're 2 metres away, a 50" TV would be a good fit.

But, with different image resolutions like Full HD and UHD (4k), the ideal distances vary. For Full HD, it's 1 metre per 25".For UHD (4k), it's 1 metre per 39". So, at a 3-metre distance, consider a 75" Full HD or a 117" UHD TV.

The right TV size

Inches to centimetres

Sizing in inches can be complex if you're accustomed to using metric measurements like metres and centimetres.

1 inch is equal to 2.54 cm. When we say a '65" TV', we're measuring the display diagonally–from one corner to the opposite one. So, a 65" TV is about 165 cm across. Here's a quick conversion:

24" TV = roughly 61 cm
32" TV = roughly 81 cm
40" TV = roughly 102 cm
43" TV = roughly 109 cm
55" TV = roughly 140 cm
65" TV = roughly 165 cm... and so on.

Simple, right? Now you can easily visualise the size of your next TV.

Mounting your TV

The optimal height for mounting a TV is really up to you. But there might be some recommendations available on the manufacturer's website.

To figure it out, you could use a cut-out paper of the same size as your TV, place it at different heights and see what works best from your usual viewing spot. Some people prefer it at eye level, others a little higher or lower.

One thing to remember: Don't hang your TV too high. You don't want to strain your neck or risk headaches from always looking upwards.

In search of a wall brackets for your TV? Check our offering.

Shop TV wall brackets

Ready for a TV upgrade?

Hopefully, you've picked your match. Still unsure? No worries! Feel free to explore our complete TV range to find your perfect fit.

Shop TVs

Get ready for Black Friday!

Looking for the best TV deals this Black Friday? You're in for a treat. TV deals remain a shopper's favourite during the entire Black Month.

So keep an eye on prices–your new TV might just be a deal away!

Black Friday 2023 TV Deals