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 C4 Series Smart TV stands out in the 42-inch TV category, primarily due to its impressive OLED technology that delivers rich, vibrant colors and deep contrasts thanks to self-lit pixels. With a 4K resolution and a refresh rate up to 144Hz, it offers smooth visuals ideal for both movie watching and gaming. This model is particularly appealing for gamers, featuring NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium, which minimize lag and enhance gameplay, along with a dedicated Game Mode. The a9 AI Processor Gen7 optimizes picture quality automatically, ensuring you get the best experience no matter what content you’re watching.

Smart features are robust with webOS 24, allowing easy access to numerous streaming services and over 300 free channels with LG Channels. The built-in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos technologies enhance your viewing and sound experience, creating an immersive home theater effect. Plus, the Magic Remote adds convenience for navigation.

However, the TV is not without its drawbacks. While the sound quality is decent, some users might find it lacking compared to dedicated sound systems, especially for larger rooms. Additionally, being a newer model, it may come at a higher price point than some competitors in the market, which could deter budget-conscious buyers. Its size also limits its suitability for larger living rooms, making it better suited for smaller spaces.

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.