10 Best 42 Inch Tvs 2026 in the United States

The SAMSUNG 43-Inch Class QLED Q7F Series is a solid choice if you're looking for a TV just above the 42-inch mark with sharp 4K resolution and vibrant colors. Thanks to Quantum HDR and nano-sized Quantum Dots, it delivers over a billion colors that remain bright and accurate even in complex scenes, making movies and shows visually impressive. Its 60Hz refresh rate is standard and fine for most everyday watching and casual gaming, but it might not satisfy those wanting super-smooth motion for fast-paced games or sports.

The built-in Q4 AI Gen1 processor helps enhance picture quality by upscaling lower-resolution content, which is great if you watch a mix of HD and 4K sources. Smart TV features are strong here, with access to thousands of free channels and popular apps, plus Alexa built-in for voice control. Connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, multiple HDMI ports, USB, and Ethernet cover all typical needs for streaming devices, gaming consoles, or soundbars. Sound quality is decent with Object Tracking Sound Lite providing clearer and more immersive audio, though for audiophiles external speakers or soundbars may still be desired.

Samsung Knox security helps protect your personal data and connected smart devices. At around 43 inches, this TV suits small to medium rooms well while balancing picture quality with smart features effectively. If you need a higher refresh rate for competitive gaming or are sensitive to sound quality, additional accessories or other models might be preferable.

The LG 42-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K C5 Series Smart TV is a standout option if you want a premium 42-inch TV. It delivers a crisp 4K resolution with OLED technology, which means you get deep blacks and vibrant, true-to-life colors thanks to over 8.3 million self-lit pixels. The 120Hz refresh rate is excellent for smooth motion, whether you're watching sports or playing fast-paced games, and it supports gaming enhancements like NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync that reduce screen tearing.

Smart features run on LG’s user-friendly webOS platform, providing easy access to popular streaming apps and voice assistants like Alexa. HDR support is strong with Dolby Vision and HDR10, giving richer contrast and brighter highlights. Sound quality is boosted by Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience without needing extra speakers. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, so you can connect all your devices with ease. Viewing angles are excellent because OLED screens maintain color and brightness even when watching off-center.

As an OLED, it may be pricier than standard LED TVs and requires some care to avoid screen burn-in over long periods of static images. The TV weighs around 22 pounds and is moderately deep for a slim profile. This LG model is ideal for users looking for a high-quality cinematic and gaming experience in a compact 42-inch size, especially if you enjoy smart features and vivid picture quality.

The TCL 43-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart TV (43S551F, 2024 Model) offers a lot of features that make it a strong contender in the 42-inch TV market. Its 4K UltraHD resolution ensures sharp and detailed images, four times clearer than standard 1080p Full HDTVs. The High Brightness LED Backlight and Enhanced Color technology provide vibrant and bright visuals, suitable for any room lighting.

The TV supports multiple HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+, enhancing the contrast and color accuracy for a more immersive viewing experience. The Motion Rate 240 with MEMC Frame Insertion ensures smooth motion clarity, which is helpful for watching fast-paced sports or action movies. Smart TV features are a highlight, with built-in Fire TV giving access to a wide range of streaming services and live TV, along with Alexa integration for voice control. Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility is a plus for Apple users. Gamers will appreciate the Auto Game Mode that minimizes lag for better gameplay.

Audio quality is also robust, with Dolby Atmos providing advanced spatial audio and DTS Virtual:X offering immersive 3D sound effects. Even dialogue clarity is enhanced with a special audio mode. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, and multiple HDMI ports, making it easy to connect various devices. The bezel-less design adds a modern touch to its aesthetics. The refresh rate is 60 Hz, which might be a limitation for some users looking for super-smooth motion in high-action content. The built-in speakers, while decent, might not satisfy audiophiles who prefer more powerful sound systems. At 43 inches, it slightly exceeds the 42-inch category, but this might not be a significant issue for most users. The TCL 43S551F offers a compelling mix of high-quality visuals, smart features, and audio enhancements, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from casual viewers to gamers.