10 Best 42 Inch Tvs 2025 in the United States

The Hisense 43" Class QD6 Series is a solid choice if you want a vibrant 4K TV with bright, lifelike colors thanks to its QLED technology, which uses quantum dots to produce a wide range of rich colors. It supports Dolby Vision and HDR 10+, so you can expect better contrast and more detail in both bright and dark scenes. The TV’s 60 Hz refresh rate is standard for this size and price, but it includes Motion Rate 120 and MEMC technology that help keep fast-moving images smooth, which is great for watching sports or action-packed shows.

For gamers, the Game Mode Plus feature with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) reduces lag and screen tearing for a better gaming experience. The built-in Fire TV smart platform provides easy access to popular streaming apps and voice controls via Alexa, also working well with Apple HomeKit and AirPlay for smart home integration and streaming from Apple devices. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, multiple HDMI and USB ports, covering most needs.

Sound quality benefits from Dolby Atmos, offering immersive, surround-like audio, though built-in TV speakers usually don’t match dedicated sound systems. Viewing angles on QLED panels tend to be decent but might lose some color and brightness if you watch from sharp sides. Weighing 15 pounds and slim in size, it fits well in smaller spaces. If you want a reasonably priced 42-43 inch TV that excels in picture quality, offers versatile smart features, and decent gaming support, this Hisense model presents a strong option, though those looking for a higher refresh rate might want to consider alternatives.

The Samsung 43-Inch Crystal UHD U8000F is a solid choice for anyone wanting a modern 4K TV close to the 42-inch size class. With a 4K resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate, it delivers sharp and smooth picture quality suitable for everyday TV watching, movies, and casual gaming. Its Crystal Processor 4K enhances lower-resolution content, making older shows and videos look clearer. The TV supports HDR, which improves brightness and color range, providing decent HDR performance.

The design is sleek and minimal, featuring a slim metal bezel that fits well in most living rooms. Samsung’s smart TV features offer easy access to over 2,700 free channels and popular streaming apps without extra fees, making entertainment convenient. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, and HDMI ports, covering a wide range of devices you might want to connect. Built-in speakers deliver sound suitable for casual viewing, though a soundbar may be desired for richer audio.

The refresh rate of 60Hz is standard and good for most content, with Motion Xcelerator technology helping to keep motion smoother. The TV is well suited for those looking for a reliable, stylish 4K smart TV with good picture quality and plenty of free content, although it may not satisfy users seeking top-tier HDR or ultra-fast gaming performance.

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.