2024 Popular 4K TV Shopping Guide & Recommendation
Factors to consider when shopping for a gaming TV
If you want a TV that supports your new game console, make sure it has the following specifications:
1. 4K 120 FPS/Hz
2. HDMI 2.1
3. Equipped with VRR/ALLM/FreeSync/G-Sync technology
What is 4K 120FPS?
4K refers to Ultra HD (UHD) which offers a resolution of 3840 x 2160. The higher the number, the more detailed the image. FPS means Frames Per Second. Simply put, it is the number of frames displayed per second. The higher the number, the smoother the action. Normal action and shooting games require a higher FPS. If the console supports a high FPS and the TV does not, shadows and blurry images appear, greatly reducing the overall playing pleasure.
What is the difference between FPS and Hz?
FPS is mostly used as a specification for game consoles or computer screens and Hz is used mostly for TV to represent how many frames per second. But in both cases, the higher the number, the smoother and more stable it is to view action movies or racing images. FPS can be equated to Hz. If the console supports 120FPS, the TV must support 120Hz for maximum performance. If the console supports 120FPS but the TV only supports 60Hz to the max, it is likely you will get shadows and blurred images.
Is HDMI standard or HDMI 2.1 port suitable for use with 4K 120FPS?
If you buy a TV that supports 4K 120FPS, make sure it comes with a connection port that supports HDMI 2.1. This new technology has been out for just a year, so only the latest or flagship TV models are equipped with it. Don’t confuse HDMI with HDMI 2.1 because currently only the latter can support 4K 120FPS.
Special Functions
What is the VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)?
The game will play smoothly if both the console and TV support 120FPS. But if the consort only outputs 60FPS but the TV is 120Hz, you could encounter problems such as stuck images and flickering screens. This greatly affects the overall playing experience. VRR is a technology that automatically adjusts the TV Hz rate to synchronize with the console in real time for smoother images.
In addition to VRR, some TVs also support FreeSync and G-Sync. This technology is used for stabilizing images and to ensure that both the FPS rate and Hz rate are synchronized. The functions of these three technologies are the same just that these are standards used by different manufacturers.
ALLM
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) allows optimal delay settings for smoother, no lag, uninterrupted viewing and interaction. Most computer users will be familiar with this term. With a low-input-latency TV, the picture responds faster as it synchronizes with the game you play. HDMI 2.1 specification is equipped with ALLM and switches on automatically when game mode is selected on the TV.
Is the new Sony TV "Ready for PS5"?
PS5 is a product of Sony and therefore you will notice the specification: Sony TV "Ready for PS5" for the first time. Sony TV supports 4K 120FPS and is equipped with an HDMI 2.1 port and VVR technology. Gamers should watch out for the "Ready for PS5" series when selecting a TV for their gaming.
Q&A
Q. Can I connect the PS5/XBOX Series console to my old TV at home?
A. Basically, any TV can be connected to a console with an HDMI port but the reason you are getting a new console is that you want a better gaming experience so you should seriously consider upgrading the TV to enjoy a gaming experience with all the latest technological advancements.
Q. Do I still need a 4K 120Hz TV as not all games support 120FPS/Hz?
A. Not all games on the market support 120FPS but in recent years, game companies of all sizes are developing 120FPS games. If you don’t want to lag behind in technology, switch to a 120FPS/Hz TV as soon as possible to enjoy the latest gaming experience.
Q. Will OLED or LED LCD affect FPS/Hz or the viewing experience?
A. OLED and LED LCD refer to TV luminescence technology. This has nothing to do with 4K 120FPS. OLED uses self-luminous technology for three-dimensional and strong contrast images, but it is prone to color fade, blotches and other image problems after long-term use. LED LCD uses LED as a backlight source and generally has a longer lifespan, but the contrast and vividness are inferior to OLED.