Tired of squinting at a tiny TV screen? Struggling to find the perfect balance of picture quality and affordability? Look no further. In today’s world of endless entertainment options, having a TV that meets your needs is essential. That’s where we come in. This guide is dedicated to helping you find the best 40-inch TV to elevate your viewing experience without breaking the bank. But to make the most of your investment, consider these key factors:
- Screen Resolution: Look for a TV with at least a 1080p resolution. Some models in this size bracket offer 4K resolution, providing sharper details and more vibrant colors. This is especially noticeable in high-definition content like live sports or nature documentaries.
- Refresh Rate and Response Time: Seek TVs with a minimum refresh rate of 60Hz. This ensures smoother motion without blur, crucial for fast-paced movies and gaming. Advanced models with higher refresh rates (120Hz) offer even smoother transitions, making a noticeable difference in fast action scenes.
- Smart Features: Consider the smart capabilities of the TV. A good 40-inch TV should offer an intuitive interface with access to popular streaming services and connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and HDMI ports. Some models also feature voice control and mobile app compatibility, enhancing usability and integration with your other smart home devices.
Our comprehensive “Buying Guide” will walk you through these considerations in detail, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Best 40-inch TV: Table
| Best 40-inch TV | Resolution | Connectivity Technology | Refresh Rate | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vizio D40F-J09 40-Inch TV | 1080p | USB, HDMI, Blue tooth | 60Hz | Check On Amazon |
| Amazon 40-inch TV | 1080p | HDMI | 60Hz | Check On Amazon |
| Hisense 40 inch TV | 1080p | Bluetooth, HDMI, Wifi, and USB | 60Hz | Check On Amazon |
| TCL 40-inch TV | 1080p | Wifi, HDMI | 60Hz | Check On Amazon |
| Sceptre 40-Inch TV | 1080p | HDMI, USB, Composite, Bluetooth, VGA | 60Hz | Check On Amazon |
| Roku 40-inch TV | 1080p | Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI | 60Hz | Check On Amazon |
Best 40-inch TV Reviews
Let’s explore the best 40-inch TVs that offer style, functionality, and value.
1. Vizio D40F-J09 40-Inch TV
The Vizio D40F-J09 TV offers crisp and clear picture quality with its 1080p Full HD resolution, enhancing viewing experiences across various content. The Full Array LED backlight and IQ Picture Processor ensure superior light uniformity and quick loading. This makes it a good choice for movie lovers and casual gamers.
The V-Gaming Engine optimizes the display for gaming. It includes features like Variable Refresh Rate with AMD FreeSync and low input lag, which benefit gaming enthusiasts.
The SmartCast platform is another key feature. It provides easy navigation and a wide selection of built-in apps like Netflix and YouTube. Its compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in adds to its versatility, making it ideal for streaming and multi-device integration.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1080p Full HD
- Full-Array LED Backlight
- IQ Picture Processor
- V-Gaming Engine
- SmartCast with Built-in Apps
- Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast Built-In
- Free Channels with WatchFree+
- Connectivity: Wired, Wireless
- Speaker Type: Built-in
Pros:
- Excellent picture clarity and color
- Optimized features for gaming
- Extensive smart platform capabilities
- Robust connectivity options
Cons:
- Limited HDR capabilities
2. Amazon 40-inch TV
The Amazon 40-inch TV with Integrated Fire TV provides extensive streaming options, offering access to Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ straight out of the box. The HD 1080p resolution with HDR 10 and HLG ensures vibrant picture quality for movies and shows.
With Alexa integration via the Voice Remote, users can easily control smart home devices and quickly search for content. The TV has multiple HDMI ports, including an ARC input, making it versatile for different home entertainment setups.
Bluetooth capabilities allow for private listening, perfect for watching TV without disturbing others. However, while the picture quality is good, it doesn’t match the brightness and color depth of higher-end models.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- HDR10 and HLG support
- Backlight type: Direct LED
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Connectivity: HDMI (1 ARC), Bluetooth
- Alexa Voice Remote
- Built-in Fire TV for streaming
- Wireless Bluetooth listening
- Ethernet port
Pros:
- Extensive streaming options built in
- Voice remote with Alexa integration
- Private Bluetooth audio streaming
Cons:
- Limited high-end gaming features
3. Hisense 40 inch TV
The Hisense 40-inch TV features Motion Rate 120 technology, making it ideal for sports and gaming. This feature ensures smooth playback. The TV has a 1080p high-definition LCD screen with a powerful full-array LED backlight, which enhances color sharpness and picture quality.
The built-in Google Assistant and Android TV platform offer a smart interface with a wide range of streaming services and apps. This makes it versatile for all types of media consumption. The voice remote adds convenience, allowing easy control of the TV and other smart home devices.
However, the sound quality does not match the visual performance. You might need an additional sound system for a better experience.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1080p
- Motion Rate 120
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, HDMI
- Full-Array LED Backlight
- Built-in Google Assistant
- Chromecast Built-In
- Voice Remote Included
- Smart TV: Android TV
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Pros:
- Excellent motion handling for gaming and sports
- Integrated smart features with Google Assistant
- Voice control enhances user interaction
Cons:
- Some lag with heavy app usage
4. TCL 40-inch TV
The TCL 40-inch TV offers a stylish and immersive viewing experience with its FullView Metal Bezel-less Design. The 1080P Full HD resolution and Direct LED backlighting deliver vibrant visuals with good clarity.
This model comes with the Roku TV Smart OS, providing access to over 250 live TV channels and various streaming options. The Roku integration makes navigating apps and services simple and user-friendly. Additionally, it supports Apple AirPlay2, allowing easy sharing from Apple devices, and making it versatile for a connected home setup.
The connectivity could be improved by adding more HDMI ports to accommodate multiple devices. The audio performance is decent but might not meet the expectations of audiophiles.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1080P Full HD
- Bezel-less Design
- Direct LED Backlight
- Smart OS: Roku TV
- Apple AirPlay2 compatible
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, 3 HDMI (One with ARC)
- Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit
- Game Mode for low latency
- Dynamic Contrast for enhanced image quality
- Speaker Type: Built-in
Pros:
- Stunning bezel-less design enhances aesthetic appeal
- User-friendly interface with seamless app integration
- Compatibility with major smart home systems
Cons:
- Limited number of HDMI ports
5. Sceptre 40-Inch TV
The Sceptre 40-Inch TV offers steady performance and consistent picture quality with its 1080p resolution and LED display technology. It delivers clear and vibrant images, suitable for daily shows and gaming sessions. Known for its reliability, this TV reflects Samsung’s quality manufacturing.
It includes HDMI, USB, and Composite inputs, making it versatile for common entertainment setups. The MEMC 120 (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) technology ensures smooth action sequences without motion blur, enhancing the viewing experience for sports and fast-paced movies. The sound quality is adequate but might not satisfy those seeking a cinema-like audio experience.
Specifications:
- Display Technology: LED
- Resolution: 1080p
- HDMI, USB, Composite Connectivity
- MEMC 120 for smoother motion
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Browser
- Flat Panel Design
- Speaker Type: Built-In
- Wattage: 75 watts
Pros:
- Simple setup and easy navigation
- Durable build quality
- Great value for the price point
Cons:
- Lacks some modern features like voice control and advanced HDR
6. Roku 40-inch TV
The Roku 40-inch TV offers a seamless streaming experience with its Roku OS. The user-friendly interface provides easy access to a vast library of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. Customization options allow users to tailor the home screen, placing favourite apps and channels front and centre.
The TV’s Full HD resolution delivers clear and detailed content, though it lacks advanced HDR support found in some competitors. This might be less appealing to those seeking top-tier visuals but remains adequate for everyday viewing.
Sound quality is serviceable for casual watching. However, for a richer audio experience, investing in external speakers or a soundbar might be necessary.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 1080p
- Supported Internet Services: Extensive, including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu
- Special Features: Bezel-less design, Voice Remote
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
- Built-in Roku Streaming
- Voice Control with Roku Voice Remote
- Direct LED Backlight
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Speaker Type: Built-In
Pros:
- Extensive streaming options with built-in Roku
- Easy-to-use interface and customizable home screen
- Voice remote enhances user convenience
Cons:
- Average sound quality without external enhancements
Buying Guide For The Best 40-Inch TVs
When selecting the best 40-inch TV, consider your primary use case, whether it’s watching movies, gaming, or everyday viewing. Balance the importance of picture quality, smart features, sound, and additional functionalities with your budget. Here are key factors to consider when selecting the ideal 40-inch TV.
1. Resolution and Picture Quality
- High Definition (HD) and Full High Definition (FHD): Most 40-inch TVs offer HD or FHD resolution. FHD, or 1080p, provides a clearer and more detailed picture compared to standard HD.
- 4K Resolution: While less common in 40-inch models, some high-end TVs offer 4K resolution. These provide sharper images and better detail, enhancing your viewing experience, especially for high-definition content.
2. Refresh Rate
- Standard 60 Hz: Suitable for general viewing, including TV shows and some sports.
- Higher Refresh Rates (120 Hz): Ideal for fast-paced content, such as sports and video games, to reduce motion blur.
3. HDR Compatibility
- Importance of HDR: High Dynamic Range (HDR) greatly improves picture quality by enhancing color accuracy and increasing the contrast between the darkest blacks and the brightest whites. This results in a more vibrant and immersive viewing experience.
- Types of HDR: Look for TVs that support popular HDR formats such as HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Each format has its strengths, with Dolby Vision being favored for its dynamic metadata that optimizes color and brightness on a scene-by-scene basis.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure the TV is compatible with the HDR formats supported by your favorite streaming services and Blu-ray players to fully utilize its capabilities.
4. Operating System
- Choosing the Right OS: The operating system of your TV will determine the interface layout, available apps, and features such as voice control and automatic updates.
- Popular Operating Systems: Most 40-inch TVs come with well-known operating systems like Android TV, Roku TV, Samsung’s Tizen, or LG’s webOS. Each offers a unique set of apps and user experiences.
- App Availability: Consider what streaming apps you use the most. Make sure the operating system supports all your favorite services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and others without the need for additional devices.
5. Smart Features
- Smart TV Capabilities: Look for TVs with built-in smart platforms if you enjoy streaming services. These TVs connect directly to the internet, allowing access to apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube without additional devices.
- Voice Control and Integration: Some smart TVs offer voice control through AI assistants like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Siri, providing hands-free operation, which is convenient for many users.
- Gaming Features: If gaming is a priority, look for TVs with features like low input lag, variable refresh rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) to enhance your gaming experience.
6. Connectivity Options
- HDMI and USB Ports: Ensure the TV has multiple HDMI and USB ports to connect various devices like game consoles, Blu-ray players, and USB drives.
- Wireless Connectivity: Consider models with WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities for easier connection to the internet and wireless headphones or speakers.
7. Audio Quality
- Built-in Speakers: Pay attention to the wattage and quality of built-in speakers. Higher wattage typically indicates louder and clearer sound.
- Sound Enhancements: Look for features like Dolby Atmos or DTS if you appreciate immersive sound experiences, especially in a home theater setup.
8. Design and Build
- Many modern TVs feature a minimal bezel design, which maximizes screen space for a more immersive viewing experience. Consider the TV’s overall design and how it will fit into your space, including stand or wall-mounting options.
- LED TVs are generally more energy-efficient than older LCD models. Some models also offer energy-saving features like automatic brightness adjustment to reduce power consumption.
9. Energy Efficiency
- Power Consumption: Check the energy rating to understand the TV’s power consumption, which can impact your electricity bill, especially with frequent use.
- Eco Features: Some TVs have features like auto-brightness control that adjust the screen brightness based on ambient light, helping reduce energy use.
Also Check:
FAQ’s:
Ans: Full HD (1080p) is common and provides great picture quality, but 4K offers superior clarity and detail if you can find it in this size.
Ans: Yes, many 40-inch TVs come with smart platforms like Roku, Android, or proprietary systems for streaming and apps.
Ans: Absolutely. Look for TVs with low input lag, high refresh rates, and gaming modes to enhance your gaming experience.
Ans: Yes, some models support HDR formats like HDR10 and Dolby Vision for improved brightness, contrast, and colors.
Ans: A higher refresh rate (like 60Hz or 120Hz) is important for viewing fast-moving content and gaming to reduce motion blur.
Ans: Built-in speakers vary, but for enhanced audio, look for technologies like Dolby Atmos or consider an external sound system.
Ans: Many smart TVs now support voice control through built-in assistants or compatibility with external devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home.
Conclusion
Finding the best 40-inch TV is all about balancing your needs and preferences. Consider the display quality, smart features, connectivity options, and design. By focusing on these aspects, you can choose a TV that offers a great viewing experience and fits seamlessly into your home setup. Here are the top three recommendations:
- Vizio D40F-J09 40-inch TV: Ideal for gamers and streamers seeking exceptional performance and vivid picture quality. The V-Gaming Engine offers smooth gameplay and low input lag, enhancing your gaming experience.
- Amazon 40-inch TV: Perfect for those who want seamless integration with Alexa and extensive streaming options. The built-in Fire TV delivers an easy-to-use interface and access to a vast array of content.
- TCL 40-inch TV: For users who value a sleek, modern design with comprehensive smart features. The Roku TV Smart OS provides a user-friendly interface with access to numerous streaming services.
