Hey there, sports fans! For sports enthusiasts, the right TV can make all the difference in enjoying the big game. From the roar of the crowd to the visual clarity of each play, a suitable television can bring the thrill of the stadium right into the living room. This guide zeroes in on the best TVs for sports, ensuring fans never miss a beat of their favorite games.
The Best TVs in 2024
Game Rant looks at the best of the best OLED, Mini-LED, and LED TVs available in 2024.
How to Choose the Best TVs for Sports Viewing
When it comes to sports, every detail matters. Choosing the right TV involves understanding key features that can enhance the viewing experience of fast-paced games.
Refresh Rate and Motion Handling
A high refresh rate is paramount for sports TVs, ensuring smooth playback during fast movements. Look for TVs with at least a 120Hz refresh rate to keep up with the action without motion blur.
Screen Size and Viewing Angles
The size of the TV and the viewing angles are crucial for sports fans. A larger screen with wide viewing angles ensures that every seat in the room has a great view, making it perfect for group watch parties.
Color Accuracy and Brightness
Color accuracy and screen brightness play significant roles in immersing viewers in the game. Opt for a TV that delivers vibrant colors and sufficient brightness to capture the dynamic visuals of sports events.
Enhancing the sports-viewing experience at home goes beyond just the TV, especially for gamers. For the ultimate immersive entertainment experience, consider pairing the brand new sports TV with a top-quality gaming controller, perfect for those gaming halftime breaks.
Game Rant’s Best TVs for Sports Viewing in 2024
Sony BRAVIA XR A80L
Best Overall TV for Sports
$2000 $2200 Save $200
The Sony Bravia XR A80L is one of the best smart TVs money can buy. Available in four screen sizes, the A80L delivers great contrast and immersive sound. It comes with impressive streaming and gaming features, making it a multipurpose TV. It also packs environmentally-conscious features like dynamic backlight control, power saving mode, and display off mode.
- Dimensions
- 13″D x 57.13″W x 34″H
- Display Technology
- OLED
- What’s Included
- Power Cable, Remote Control, AAA batteries, Stand
- Brand
- SONY
- Refresh Rate
- 120 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- HDR?
- Yes (HDR10)
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
- Yes
- 120Hz refresh rate for fluid motion in fast-paced sports scenes
- Stunning 4K OLED display enhances viewing experience
- Dynamic backlight control and power saving mode for efficiency
- High price point may not suit all budgets
- Requires careful calibration for optimal picture quality
The Sony BRAVIA XR A80L stands as the premier choice for sports fans seeking the best overall TV experience. With its crisp, color-rich 4K OLED display and a 120Hz refresh rate, every game feels like a front-row experience. There’s a lot to love about this TV, and customers rave about its vivid colors, deep blacks, and exceptional motion handling, which are crucial for capturing every thrilling sports moment.
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While the Sony BRAVIA XR A80L delivers on many fronts, it’s essential to consider a few drawbacks. Most noticeably, there are concerns about its premium pricing, and there is some user feedback on quality consistency. Nevertheless, its strengths in picture quality, sports-centric features, and gaming compatibility solidify its status as one of the best TVs for sports enthusiasts, offering a stadium-like atmosphere from the comfort of home.
Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K TV
Best Entry-Level TV for Sports
This 50-inch 4-Series Fire TV from Amazon features a high-resolution display that supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus. Thanks to the Fire TV platform, it has access to all the popular apps and streaming services with a catalog of over a million movies and TV show episodes from the likes of Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more.
- Brand
- Amazon Fire TV
- Display Size
- 50”
- Operating System
- Fire TV OS
- Display Type
- VA
- Display Resolution
- 3840 x 2160
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, 3 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x HDMI eARC 2.1
- Refresh rate
- 60 Hz
- Weight
- 20.6 lb
- 3840 x 2160 resolution with HDR 10 and HLG for vivid visuals
- Integrated Fire TV OS for easy access to streaming services
- Multiple connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1 eARC
- 60 Hz refresh rate is less ideal for fast-action sports
- Some users find sound quality lacking
For those getting their very first sports TV, the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series 4K TV stands out as the ideal entry-level option. With its 4K resolution and HDR capabilities, this TV brings sports events to life with stunning clarity and color depth. Its integration with Fire TV OS means easy access to favorite streaming services, enhancing the overall viewing experience. While its 60 Hz refresh rate is standard, it delivers consistent picture quality that most users find more than satisfactory for casual sports viewing.
However, it’s important to note some limitations. The 60 Hz refresh rate, while adequate, may not be the best for extremely fast-paced sports. Additionally, some users have expressed concerns about the device’s overall speed and sound quality. Despite these points, the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series remains a top recommendation for those entering the world of sports TVs, especially considering its seamless integration with smart home systems and value for money.
Hisense U8H QLED 65-Inch Mini-LED TV
Best Smart TV for Sports
$1000 $1100 Save $100
The Hisense U8H QLED 65-inch Mini-LED TV is an excellent mid-range TV offering that checks most of the boxes one could ask for a mid-range TV to offer while delivering a stellar performance at a price point that is much easier for most to budget around.
- Dimensions
- 57.2×33.1×3.0 inches
- Display Technology
- QLED Mini-LED
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet Bluetooth 5.0
- Brand
- Hisense
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Resolution
- 4K (3840 x 2160)
- HDR?
- Yes, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG
- Ports
- 4 x HDMI ports (2 x HDMI 2.1 Ports)
- Weight
- 58.2 lbs
- FreeSync
- Yes, FreeSync Premium Pro
- G-SYNC
- No
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- Yes, FreeSync
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
- Yes
- 120Hz refresh rate and 4K resolution for crystal-clear, dynamic sports action
- QLED Mini-LED technology enhances picture quality
- Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.0
- Requires significant space for optimal viewing experience
- Complex settings may be challenging for non-tech-savvy users
Looking for a smart TV? For sports fans, the Hisense U8H QLED 65-inch Mini-LED TV stands as a pinnacle of sports viewing technology. This TV combines a razor-sharp 120Hz refresh rate with 4K resolution and a QLED Mini-LED display. Its Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG capabilities ensure every game is displayed in breathtaking detail, making every moment on screen feel like users are right in the stadium. This TV’s performance extends beyond its stunning visuals. The built-in subwoofer and speakers deliver exceptional sound quality, automatically adjusting to provide the best audio for any content. FreeSync Premium Pro and ALLM features ensure that fast-moving sports scenes are smoothly rendered, immersing fans completely in their favorite games.
Although this TV is praised for its sound quality and high entertainment value, some users note the price is a factor to consider. However, the consensus is that the Hisense U8H QLED 65-inch Mini-LED TV is well worth the investment for sports fans, offering an unmatched viewing experience that brings every thrilling sports moment to life.
LG C3 55 Inch OLED EVO TV
Best Mid-Range TV for Sports
$1400 $1500 Save $100
The LG C3 55-inch OLED EVO TV comes with a complete assortment of gaming-related advances, such as VRR support, ALLM, a high refresh rate, and an excellent response time coupled with four HDMI 2.1 ports. It’s hard to find a viable alternative to the C3 within its price range when the TV’s gaming performance is considered.
- Dimensions
- 48.1 X 29.8 X 9.1″
- Display Technology
- OLED EVO
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.0, Ethernet
- What’s Included
- 55” OLED TV, Magic Remote, Stand, Power Cord, Quick Start Guide, Batteries, E-Manual
- Brand
- LG
- Refresh Rate
- 120Hz
- Resolution
- 4k (3840×2160)
- HDR?
- Yes, Dolby Vision Supported
- Ports
- 4 x HDMI 2.1 Ports
- FreeSync
- Yes, FreeSync Premium
- G-SYNC
- Yes, G-Sync Compatible
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- Yes
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
- Yes
- 120Hz refresh rate and 4K resolution for crystal-clear sports action
- Dolby Vision HDR for vibrant, lifelike colors
- Advanced gaming features like VRR and FreeSync Premium
- 55-inch size may be small for some sports viewing preferences
- Limited brightness compared to higher-end models
Offering an exceptional balance between price and performance, The LG C3 OLED EVO TV stands out as the top mid-range option for sports fans. Its 55-inch 4K OLED screen, coupled with a 120Hz refresh rate, brings sports scenes to life with stunning clarity and fluidity. Users appreciate its user-friendly remote, webOS features, and vibrant picture quality, which collectively enhance the sports viewing experience.
While the LG C3 excels in many areas, it’s important to note its size, which might not be ideal for all viewing setups, and its mid-range price tag. However, its blend of advanced features, such as support for Dolby Vision HDR and gaming compatibility, alongside its acclaimed ease of use and image quality, firmly establishes it as the best choice for sports enthusiasts seeking quality within a reasonable budget.
SAMSUNG 75-Inch Class Neo QN85B 4K TV
Best High-End TV for Sports
This Samsung NEO QN85B television comes with a large 75-inch display that boasts a native 4K resolution. The Quantum Mini LED technology allows a super-precise picture with even more impressive colors and contrast. The Neo Quantum Processor uses AI-based deep learning to upscale content to 4K.
The TV has an improved high dynamic range with Quantum HDR and Dolby Atmos sound support. It also offers a 120Hz native refresh rate and widespread compatibility with a variety of voice assistants such as Bixby, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
- Brand
- Samsung
- Display Size
- 75″
- Dimensions
- 44.2 x 73.9 x 7.8 inches
- Display Type
- MiniLED
- Display Resolution
- 4K (2160p)
- Refresh rate
- 120 Hz
- Operating System
- Samsung Tizen
- Power Consumption
- 93W (Typical)
- Weight
- 88 lb
- Speakers
- 60W
- Peak Brightness
- 1500 Nits
- Response Time
- ~10ms (Game Mode)
- VESA
- Yes, 400 x 400 Mount
- Stunning 4K QLED display with Quantum Mini LED technology
- Powerful Dolby Atmos sound for an immersive experience
- Sleek design enhancing the aesthetic of any room
- Large size might not fit all spaces
- Complex features may require a learning curve
For sports aficionados seeking the ultimate viewing experience, the SAMSUNG 75-inch Class Neo QN85B 4K TV stands as the top choice in its high-end class. The TV’s life-like colors and deep contrasts, thanks to its QLED technology, put users right on the field, or so it would seem. The Neo Quantum Processor brings every detail to life, while its 120Hz refresh rate keeps up with the fastest plays. Dolby Atmos sound envelops the room, placing viewers at the heart of every cheer and referee whistle.
However, this high-end TV comes with considerations. Its premium price reflects its top-tier features, which might be a stretch for some budgets. A few customers have mentioned performance concerns, suggesting that this model might require some tweaking for optimal use. Despite these points, for those who value superior picture quality and sound in their sports viewing, the SAMSUNG 75-inch Class Neo QN85B stands out as one of the best TVs for sports worth considering in 2024.
Sony X80K 65-inch 4K LED TV
Best Budget TV for Sports
$700 $850 Save $150
The 65-inch Sony X80K is a great TV for the PlayStation 5 primarily because it ships with exclusive features for the phenomenal game console. Furthermore, it also features Google TV’s Game Menu, a hub for customizing gameplay settings like motion blur reduction and crosshair. Aside from gaming purposes, the X80K also allows casting, streaming, the upscaling of near-4K content to 4K resolution, and more.
- Dimensions
- 13.38″D x 57.25″W x 35.75″H
- Display Technology
- LED
- What’s Included
- Stand, Remote Control, Power Cable
- Brand
- Sony
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- Weight
- 49.8 lbs
- Exclusive PlayStation 5 features for enhanced gaming
- Upscaling to 4K for superior picture quality
- User-friendly setup and interface
- Limited to 60 Hz refresh rate
- Some users report connectivity issues
The Sony X80K 65-inch 4K LED TV stands out as the best budget TV for sports enthusiasts. Besides just watching sports, this TV appeals to gamers with its exclusive PlayStation 5 features and Google TV’s Game Menu. These features bring gaming and sports viewing to a new level. The upscaling to 4K ensures every game looks its best, while the 60 Hz refresh rate and LED display maintain smooth motion during high-action moments. The ease of setup, with its included stand, remote control, and power cable, makes it a hit among users.
It’s important to note some of the limitations. The 60 Hz refresh rate, while adequate, may not satisfy the needs of those seeking higher performance in fast-moving sports scenes. Additionally, some users have reported connectivity issues, which could be a concern for those relying on seamless streaming. Despite these points, the overall value and picture quality delivered by the Sony X80K makes it a compelling choice for sports fans looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality.
SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Crystal UHD 4K CU8000 Series Smart TV
Best 4K TV for Sports
$580 $630 Save $50
With effortless performance, crowd-pleasing features and great value, this large smart TV from Samsung offers 4K visuals to watch favorite movies and TV shows using the Crystal Processor. Picture quality is improved as colors, contrast, and motion are analyzed and adjusted with the Dynamic Crystal Color, Contrast Enhancer, and Motion Xcelerator technologies. Even the audio is transformed to deliver 3D surround sound that moves with the action using Object Tracking Sound Lite.
- Dimensions
- 11″D x 57.1″W x 34.4″H
- Display Technology
- LED
- What’s Included
- User Manual, E-Manual,Power Cable
- Brand
- SAMSUNG
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
- Ports
- 3 HDMI, 2 USB, 1 LAN, 1 ANT
- Motion Xcelerator lets viewers see clear details in pictures
- Upscales non-4K content to near-4K resolution
- Object Tracking Sound Lite allows for 3D surround sound
- Limited to 60 Hz refresh rate
- Lacks Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
The 65-inch Samsung CU8000 caters to the expectations of those who want to watch the big game or the previous match’s highlights on a spectacular 4K display. Aside from a vast 65-inch screen real estate that should be enough for multiple viewers, the Samsung TV’s Crystal processor upgrades non-4K content to 4K quality by improving sound, color, and more. The CU8000 includes even more impressive features, such as the Motion Xclerator, which renders fast-paced content like sports smoothly on the screen without sacrificing the crisp details that a 4K display offers.
While the CU8000’s capabilities can be a lot to take in, prospective owners must equally be aware of its shortcomings. A 60 Hz native refresh rate means that while it keeps sports and other content crisp and fluid, a 120 Hz TV will always come out on top in terms of motion handling. Some reviews also note that the TV remote does not offer the best user experience. However, for sports fans, the Samsung CU8000 is one of the best options for watching the big game.
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FAQ
Q: What size TV is best for watching sports?
The ideal TV size for sports varies with viewing distance, but generally, larger screens (50 inches and above) are preferred for an immersive experience.
Q: Do I need a 4K TV for sports viewing?
Absolutely, a 4K TV enhances the viewing experience with superior resolution, offering crisp and detailed images crucial for fast-moving sports.
Q: Are OLED TVs good for watching sports?
OLED TVs are excellent for sports, offering superior contrast and color accuracy, which make the on-field action vivid and lifelike.