10 Best 42 Inch Tvs 2025 in the United States

The LG 42-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K C5 Series Smart TV is a standout option if you want a premium 42-inch TV. It delivers a crisp 4K resolution with OLED technology, which means you get deep blacks and vibrant, true-to-life colors thanks to over 8.3 million self-lit pixels. The 120Hz refresh rate is excellent for smooth motion, whether you're watching sports or playing fast-paced games, and it supports gaming enhancements like NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync that reduce screen tearing.

Smart features run on LG’s user-friendly webOS platform, providing easy access to popular streaming apps and voice assistants like Alexa. HDR support is strong with Dolby Vision and HDR10, giving richer contrast and brighter highlights. Sound quality is boosted by Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience without needing extra speakers. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet, so you can connect all your devices with ease. Viewing angles are excellent because OLED screens maintain color and brightness even when watching off-center.

As an OLED, it may be pricier than standard LED TVs and requires some care to avoid screen burn-in over long periods of static images. The TV weighs around 22 pounds and is moderately deep for a slim profile. This LG model is ideal for users looking for a high-quality cinematic and gaming experience in a compact 42-inch size, especially if you enjoy smart features and vivid picture quality.

The Samsung 43-Inch Crystal UHD U8000F is a solid choice for anyone wanting a modern 4K TV close to the 42-inch size class. With a 4K resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate, it delivers sharp and smooth picture quality suitable for everyday TV watching, movies, and casual gaming. Its Crystal Processor 4K enhances lower-resolution content, making older shows and videos look clearer. The TV supports HDR, which improves brightness and color range, providing decent HDR performance.

The design is sleek and minimal, featuring a slim metal bezel that fits well in most living rooms. Samsung’s smart TV features offer easy access to over 2,700 free channels and popular streaming apps without extra fees, making entertainment convenient. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, and HDMI ports, covering a wide range of devices you might want to connect. Built-in speakers deliver sound suitable for casual viewing, though a soundbar may be desired for richer audio.

The refresh rate of 60Hz is standard and good for most content, with Motion Xcelerator technology helping to keep motion smoother. The TV is well suited for those looking for a reliable, stylish 4K smart TV with good picture quality and plenty of free content, although it may not satisfy users seeking top-tier HDR or ultra-fast gaming performance.

The TCL 43-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart TV (43S551F, 2024 Model) offers a lot of features that make it a strong contender in the 42-inch TV market. Its 4K UltraHD resolution ensures sharp and detailed images, four times clearer than standard 1080p Full HDTVs. The High Brightness LED Backlight and Enhanced Color technology provide vibrant and bright visuals, suitable for any room lighting.

The TV supports multiple HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+, enhancing the contrast and color accuracy for a more immersive viewing experience. The Motion Rate 240 with MEMC Frame Insertion ensures smooth motion clarity, which is helpful for watching fast-paced sports or action movies. Smart TV features are a highlight, with built-in Fire TV giving access to a wide range of streaming services and live TV, along with Alexa integration for voice control. Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility is a plus for Apple users. Gamers will appreciate the Auto Game Mode that minimizes lag for better gameplay.

Audio quality is also robust, with Dolby Atmos providing advanced spatial audio and DTS Virtual:X offering immersive 3D sound effects. Even dialogue clarity is enhanced with a special audio mode. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, and multiple HDMI ports, making it easy to connect various devices. The bezel-less design adds a modern touch to its aesthetics. The refresh rate is 60 Hz, which might be a limitation for some users looking for super-smooth motion in high-action content. The built-in speakers, while decent, might not satisfy audiophiles who prefer more powerful sound systems. At 43 inches, it slightly exceeds the 42-inch category, but this might not be a significant issue for most users. The TCL 43S551F offers a compelling mix of high-quality visuals, smart features, and audio enhancements, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from casual viewers to gamers.