How to Find the Best Gaming TV For Your Setup

What makes a TV good for gaming?

A good gaming TV offers low input lag, high refresh rates (ideally 120Hz +), HDMI 2.1 ports for full 4K/120Hz passthrough, and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) to prevent screen tearing. Features like Game Mode and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) also help reduce latency. OLED and QLED panels offer better contrast and colour, improving visual clarity in fast-paced gameplay.

What refresh rate should a gaming TV have?

For smooth gameplay, a gaming TV should support at least a 60Hz refresh rate, but 120Hz is ideal - especially for fast-paced genres like shooters and racing games. TVs with 120Hz native refresh rates paired with HDMI 2.1 ensure compatibility with next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Which HDMI port is best for gaming?

HDMI 2.1 ports are the best for gaming. They support features like 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, which enhance performance on consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X. On many TVs, HDMI 3 or 4 is designated as the high-bandwidth port - check the specs or labels on the TV to confirm.

What size TV is best for gaming?

The best gaming TV size depends on your setup. For bedroom or desk gaming, 32" to 50" screens offer immersive visuals without overwhelming your space. For lounge or family setups, 55" to 75" and larger is ideal. Competitive gamers should prioritise lower latency and sit closer; casual players may prefer larger screens for shared play.

Is a TV or monitor better for gaming?

Monitors typically offer lower input lag and faster refresh rates, making them ideal for competitive PC gaming. However, modern gaming TVs with HDMI 2.1 and Game Mode have narrowed the gap. TVs are better for shared couch play, cinematic visuals, and next-gen consoles due to larger screen sizes and enhanced HDR support.

What does Game Mode do on a TV?

Game Mode on a TV disables post-processing effects to reduce input lag, ensuring faster response between controller input and on-screen action. It’s essential for competitive or reaction-based games. Some TVs also enable VRR and ALLM automatically when Game Mode is activated.

How to connect a gaming PC or console to your TV?

To connect a gaming PC or console, use a high-speed HDMI cable and plug it into the TV’s HDMI 2.1 port if available. Make sure Game Mode is enabled in the TV’s settings for the lowest input lag. For PCs, set the resolution and refresh rate in the display settings to match the TV’s native capabilities.

What TV brands are best for gaming?

Top TV brands for gaming include LG (OLED and QNED series), Samsung (Neo QLED and QLED models with Gaming Hub), TCL (QD-Mini LED models), and Hisense (U7 series and Canvas Lifestyle TVs). These brands offer strong gaming features like 120Hz refresh rates, VRR, low input lag, and next-gen compatibility.

How far should you sit from your gaming TV?

For gaming on a 4K TV, the recommended distance is roughly 1.2 to 1.5 times the screen size. For example, a 55" TV is best viewed from about 1.7 to 2.1 metres away. Sitting closer helps competitive players react faster, while casual gamers may prefer slightly more distance for comfort.

How to optimise your Samsung or LG TV for gaming?

For Samsung TVs, activate Game Mode and enable the Gaming Hub to reduce latency and access cloud gaming features. On LG TVs, turn on Game Optimiser or use preset gaming profiles. Ensure HDMI ports are set to ‘Enhanced’ mode and enable VRR or G-Sync if your console or PC supports it.

What is the best TV for PS5 or Xbox Series X gaming?

The best TV for PS5 or Xbox Series X gaming features HDMI 2.1, 120Hz refresh rate, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and low input lag. OLED models like the LG C3 and Samsung S90C are top picks due to their near-instant response times and perfect black levels. QLED and Mini-LED models from TCL and Hisense also offer great value and performance for next-gen gaming.

What size TV is ideal for console gaming?

For console gaming, 55 to 65 inches is the sweet spot for lounge rooms, while 32 to 50 inches is ideal for bedrooms or desks. A larger screen size enhances immersion, but make sure to factor in viewing distance and pixel density, especially if playing in 4K.

What input lag is acceptable for a gaming TV?

An input lag of under 20 milliseconds is considered excellent for gaming TVs. Competitive players should look for TVs with input lag under 10ms in Game Mode. Manufacturers often publish input lag figures, but third-party reviews provide more accurate real-world testing.

What is VRR on a TV, and why is it important for gaming?

VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) allows the TV to adjust its refresh rate in real time to match the output of a gaming console or PC. This prevents screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in smoother gameplay - especially in fast-action or open-world games with variable frame rates.

Which Samsung TV is best for gaming?

Samsung’s Neo QLED models like the QN90C and OLED S90C offer the best gaming performance, thanks to HDMI 2.1, 4K at 120Hz, VRR, low input lag, and support for the Samsung Gaming Hub. These TVs also feature Game Bar, which lets you monitor real-time gaming stats and optimise settings on the fly.

What is the difference between a gaming monitor and a TV?

Gaming monitors generally have lower input lag, faster response times, and higher refresh rates, making them ideal for esports or competitive gaming. TVs, particularly modern models with HDMI 2.1, have improved significantly and offer a better viewing experience for couch gaming, split-screen multiplayer, and cinematic visuals.

How do you connect a gaming laptop or PC to a TV?

Use a high-speed HDMI cable to connect your laptop or gaming PC to a TV. If your TV supports HDMI 2.1, use that port to unlock features like 4K at 120Hz. Set the PC's display resolution and refresh rate to match the TV, and enable Game Mode on the TV for minimal input lag.

What picture settings are best for gaming on a 4K TV?

For optimal gaming performance, enable Game Mode, turn off motion smoothing (e.g. Auto Motion Plus), and set the colour temperature to a neutral value. Brightness and sharpness should be adjusted based on room lighting. On TVs like Hisense and LG, use dedicated gaming presets or calibrate manually using a console’s test screen.

What is the Samsung Gaming Hub?

Samsung Gaming Hub is a built-in feature on select Samsung TVs that centralises access to cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and more. It also optimises TV settings for low latency and lets users connect controllers without a console, turning the TV into a standalone gaming device.

How many Hz should a gaming TV have?

A gaming TV should have at least 60Hz for casual use, but 120Hz+ is preferred for serious gaming - especially if you're using a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a high-end gaming PC. A 120Hz panel reduces motion blur, supports smoother gameplay, and future-proofs your setup.

What’s the best type of TV panel for gaming: OLED, QLED, or LED?

OLED TVs offer the best contrast, near-instant response times, and wide viewing angles, making them excellent for immersive gaming. QLEDs offer brighter visuals, which is useful in well-lit rooms, and are less prone to burn-in. Mini-LED TVs strike a balance with deep blacks and high brightness at a lower price point.

How do you reduce lag when gaming on a TV?

To reduce lag, always enable Game Mode. Use HDMI 2.1 cables and ports for next-gen consoles. Disable any image processing effects like noise reduction, motion smoothing, or dynamic contrast. Ensure your console or PC is set to the correct resolution and refresh rate, and keep firmware up to date.

What to look for when buying a TV for gaming?

When buying a gaming TV, prioritise low input lag, HDMI 2.1 ports, a native 120Hz refresh rate, and VRR support. Game Mode, ALLM, and HDR10+ or Dolby Vision enhance both performance and visuals. Ensure your console or PC supports the TV’s features, and consider screen size, panel type (OLED, QLED), and response time based on your gaming style.

Which 4K TV is best for gaming?

The best 4K TVs for gaming in 2025 include the LG C3 OLED, Samsung S90C OLED, Hisense U8N Mini-LED, and TCL QM8 QLED. These models feature HDMI 2.1, 4K@120Hz, VRR, low input lag, and Game Mode presets - making them ideal for both next-gen consoles and high-end PC gaming.

What is a gaming TV?

A gaming TV is a television designed or optimised for gameplay. It typically includes features like HDMI 2.1, high refresh rates (up to 120Hz), VRR, ALLM, and low input lag. Gaming TVs often include Game Mode or similar settings that reduce latency and enhance performance when connected to a console or gaming PC.

How do you connect multiple gaming consoles to one TV?

Use an HDMI switch or an AV receiver with multiple HDMI inputs to connect multiple consoles to one TV. Label each input on the TV’s menu for easy switching. Make sure all devices support the same resolution and refresh rates to avoid handshaking or display errors.

How to stream PC or cloud games to your TV?

To stream PC games to your TV, use Steam Link, NVIDIA GameStream, or cloud gaming apps available on Smart TVs like Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW. For direct PC-to-TV streaming, connect via HDMI or cast using devices like Chromecast Ultra or Apple AirPlay.

How to record your TV screen while gaming?

To record your TV screen while gaming, use a capture card (like Elgato or AVerMedia) connected between your console and TV. Alternatively, some TVs offer built-in screen recording or cloud saving options. Next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X also have built-in gameplay recording features.

Which TV HDMI port should I use for gaming?

Use the HDMI port labelled as HDMI 2.1 or “Game” on your TV - this port supports 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, delivering the best performance. On some models, only one or two ports offer full bandwidth, so check the TV manual or spec sheet before connecting your console.