Overview
40-inch televisions strike an ideal balance of immersive viewing and space efficiency. Global sales of mid-sized 40-43 inch units are expected to grow at a 4.05% CAGR through 2024 as consumers increasingly choose them over smaller or larger options. I‘ll discuss the pros and cons versus other TV sizes.
Pros of 40-Inch TVs:
- More affordable pricing with similar features as larger models
- Lightweight, easy to mount and move around
- Compact size fits well in bedrooms and smaller living rooms
- Screen large enough for cinematic experiences from 5-6 foot viewing distance
Cons of 40-Inch TVs:
- Smaller than ideal for very large living rooms
- Smart remotes and menus have less screen real estate
- Not well suited for wide or ultra-wide viewing angles
When selecting a 40-inch TV, key factors buyers evaluate include:
- Display Technology (LED, OLED, QLED)
- Resolution and HDR Support
- Refresh Rate (60Hz, 120Hz, etc)
- Sound Quality and Volume
- Connectivity for devices and streaming
- Smart platform and gaming features
I‘ve researched the top 40-inch televisions across these categories to fit any need. Here are the best 40-inch TV picks:
Best LED Display – Hisense 40H5500F
| Display Type: | LED LCD |
| Resolution: | 1080p |
| Refresh Rate: | 60Hz |
The Hisense 40H5500F strikes a tremendous price-to-performance balance with its crisp 1080p LED panel. Utilizing advanced LED backlighting and image processing, it delivers excellent color vibrancy, black levels and motion clarity. Though lacking higher 4K resolution, image quality remains sharp and realistic for most TV shows, movies and games. It matches much more expensive LED sets.
Integrated Google Assistant and Chromecast allow handy voice controls and casting from mobile devices. The 2 HDMI ports comfortably fit both entertainment systems and consoles. And dedicated gaming mode ensures fast response for competitive online multiplayer titles.
With solid smart features and tailored adjustments like sports and game modes, the efficient Hisense 40H5500F brings top-tier LED quality to an affordable 40-inch size.
Buy the Hisense 40H5500F LED TV on Amazon
Best OLED Display – LG A2 Series
| Display Type: | OLED |
| Resolution: | 4K |
| Refresh Rate: | 60Hz |
The LG A2Series delivers our top 40-inch OLED TV recommendation, showcasing perfect black levels and dazzling color reproduction. Self-lit OLED pixels switch off to create endless contrast, while supporting a wide viewing angle without distortion. Cinematic picture springs from the 4K display.
webOS smart interface gives access to all popular streaming apps and LG‘s AI ThinQ grants helpful voice control support. Dolby Vision IQ adjusts HDR brightness dynamically based on ambient room light levels. And Filmmaker Mode changes settings to mirror creative intent.
As an unbeatable balance of profound cinema image quality and smaller form, the brilliant LG A2 OLED TV stands tall among 40-inch sets. Expect an immersive viewing experience beyond LED/LCD televisions — especially in darker home theater settings.
Buy the LG A2 Series OLED TV on Amazon
Best Gaming Features – Hisense A6G
| Display Type: | LED LCD |
| Resolution: | 4K |
| Refresh Rate: | 120Hz |
Perfect for dedicated gamers, the Hisense A6G 4K TV unlocks cutting-edge features to level up your gameplay beyond standard 60Hz sets. Its 120Hz variable refresh rate syncs frames with your console to all but eliminate jarring screen tearing. Auto Low Latency Mode also minimizes input delay for lightning quick reactions.
The 4K LED panel pumps out vivid colors and luminance while its Game Mode further enhances picture quality to spot enemies hiding in shadows. Google Assistant support even lets you launch games and apps hands-free. Integrated Bluetooth makes pairing wireless headsets simple as well.
If you demand snappy, fluid visuals when blasting baddies or racing fiercely, the Hisense A6G combines stellar graphics and key gaming optimizations into a competitively-priced 40-inch package. It brings next-gen gaming prowess at an affordable buy-in.
Buy the Hisense A6G 4K Gaming TV on Amazon
Best Budget Option – Insignia F20 Series
| Display Type: | LED LCD |
| Resolution: | 1080p |
| Refresh Rate: | 60Hz |
Finding an inexpensive 40-inch TV typically meant compromising performance, but the Insignia F20 Series brings impressive specifications down to a budget level. Its LED-backlit 1080p resolution remains sharp enough for most content, while vibrant colors and 60Hz refresh clicking smoothly. The slim bezel-less design also impresses.
Dual HDMI ports allow connecting a streaming device and game console simultaneously. And integrated Fire TV provides tons of movies, shows, apps and Alexa voice assistance — a better smart TV experience than most budget competitors.
As an inexpensive 40-inch pick under $250 supplying crisp LED picture along with extensive streaming via Fire TV, the Insignia F20 punches way above its weight. Cost-conscious shoppers seeking good everyday screen quality will love this wallet-friendly option.
Buy the Insignia F20 Series Fire TV on Amazon
Most Stylish Design – Samsung The Frame
| Display Type: | QLED |
| Resolution: | 4K |
| Refresh Rate: | 60Hz |
Beyond superb 4K QLED picture quality, the Samsung The Frame 40-inch TV dazzles with custom artwork display modes transforming it into decor when powered off. Its slim form factor, minimalist style, and contemporary rotating stand emanate modern elegance. Design-forward aesthetics meld home decoration with entertainment.
Vibrant quantum dot technology in the QLED panel creates cinematic images, while 120Hz refresh rate ensures buttery visuals whether streaming shows, movies or gaming. Art Mode lets you customize displayed paintings from famous collections when idle.
With its stunning artistic design bringing classy interior design flourish during and after viewing, The Frame remains in a class of its own among fart TVs. Savvy buyers wanting both awe-inspiring visual capabilities and living space fashion should admire this striking set.
Buy Samsung The Frame 40-Inch QLED TV on Amazon
Beyond these top recommendations, keep the following guidance in mind when evaluating 40-inch TVs:
Where will the TV be placed? Corner or wall mounted? On a credenza? Placement impacts size and connectivity needs.
What‘s your viewing distance? Optimal distance for a 40-inch screen is 5-6 feet. Make sure your seating supports this.
How will room lighting affect viewing? Brighter rooms may require higher nits/HDR compatibility.
What sources need connecting? Having enough HDMI 2.1 ports for new consoles or Blu-ray players ensures readiness.
What kind of streaming support? Choosing your preferred smart TV system (Roku, Fire TV, Google TV etc) grants that experience.
Will it be used for gaming? Auto Low Latency Modes, Variable Refresh Rate and 120hz make gameplay more responsive.
Finding answers to these questions will guide you to your perfect 40-inch television match! Please reach out if you need any advice or have additional questions while shopping! I‘m always happy to help tailor picks to your needs.
