If you’ve ever felt the frustration of screen tearing during a high-stakes boss fight or missed a headshot because of input lag, you know how crucial the right TV is for gaming. After months of testing and comparing models, I’ve narrowed down the top contenders for the Best 4K TV for Gaming in 2025. Spoiler: One model stands head and shoulders above the rest—but let’s break down why.
What Makes a Great Gaming TV?
Before diving into recommendations, let’s talk specs. A gaming TV needs:
- High Refresh Rate (120Hz+): Smoother motion and reduced blur.
- Low Input Lag: Instant response to controller inputs.
- HDMI 2.1 Ports: For 4K/120Hz gaming and features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate).
- HDR Performance: Vivid colors and deep blacks for immersive visuals.
- OLED vs. QLED: OLED offers perfect blacks but risks burn-in; QLED is brighter and more affordable.
The Contenders
After testing six top-rated models, here’s how they stack up:
| Model | Panel Type | Refresh Rate | HDMI 2.1 Ports | HDR Support | Price (65″) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG G4 Evo OLED | OLED | 144Hz | 4 | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG | $2,499 |
| Hisense U7N ULED | mini-LED | 144Hz | 2 | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | $948 |
| Sony Bravia 9 | mini-LED | 120Hz | 4 | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | $3,199 |
| TCL QM7 Series | mini-LED | 144Hz | 2 | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | $1,299 |
| Samsung S90C QD-OLED | QD-OLED | 144Hz | 4 | HDR10+, HLG | $2,199 |
Deep Dive: Top Picks Reviewed
1. LG G4 Evo OLED: The Gold Standard 23
Why It Shines:
- Brightness & Contrast: Hits 1,500 nits—unheard of for OLEDs—thanks to Micro Lens Array tech. Dark scenes in Hollow Knight: Silksong look jaw-droppingly deep.
- Gaming Features: Four HDMI 2.1 ports, 144Hz refresh rate, and LG’s Game Optimizer mode. The input lag? A blistering 9.8ms.
- Design: Ultra-thin panel with a “Gallery Edition” wall mount for a sleek setup.
Drawbacks:
- Burn-In Risk: OLED’s Achilles’ heel. Avoid static HUDs for marathon sessions.
- Sound: Decent but lacks bass. Pair it with a soundbar.
Verdict: If money’s no object, this is the TV for competitive gamers and cinephiles alike.
2. Hisense U7N ULED: Budget Beast 52
Why It Shines:
- Value: At under $1,000, it packs mini-LED backlighting, 144Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Vision IQ.
- Gaming Modes: Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) kicks in seamlessly with PS5/Xbox.
- Brightness: Hits 1,500 nits—ideal for sunlit rooms.
Drawbacks:
- Viewing Angles: Mediocre off-center. Fine for solo gaming, less so for parties.
- Build Quality: Feels plasticky compared to premium rivals.
Verdict: The best sub-$1,000 TV for 4K/120Hz gaming.
3. Sony Bravia 9: The Dark Horse 23
Why It Shines:
- Picture Quality: Near-OLED blacks with mini-LED precision. God of War: Ragnarök’s shadow details are flawless.
- Motion Handling: Sony’s XR processor nails fast-paced action.
Drawbacks:
- Price: Over $3,000 for the 85″ model. Ouch.
- No 144Hz: Stuck at 120Hz—a minor gripe for console gamers.
Verdict: A luxury pick for PlayStation loyalists.
4. Samsung S90C QD-OLED: The All-Rounder 3
Why It Shines:
- QD-OLED Tech: Combines OLED’s contrast with QLED’s brightness. Starfield’s neon cities pop brilliantly.
- Design: Slim bezels and a minimalist stand.
Drawbacks:
- No Dolby Vision: Relies on HDR10+, which isn’t as widely supported.
Verdict: A stellar choice for mixed PC/console setups.
And the Winner Is…
LG G4 Evo OLED 23
Yes, it’s pricey. But for gamers who demand the best, nothing else comes close. The combination of 144Hz OLED visuals, four HDMI 2.1 ports, and LG’s gaming-centric software makes it a future-proof investment. Pair it with a PS5 or RTX 4090 rig, and you’ll see why this TV dominates every “Best Of” list.
Where to Buy:
👉 LG G4 Evo OLED on Amazon
Final Thoughts
Still on the fence? Ask yourself:
- Budget: Under $1,000? Hisense U7N.
- Bright Room: Samsung S90C.
- No Compromises: LG G4.
Whichever you choose, 2025’s lineup proves that gaming TVs have never looked—or played—better. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a date with Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree on my LG G4. Happy gaming! 🎮
