I spent three weeks testing six Samsung 50-inch TVs across bedrooms, living rooms, and gaming setups. The Samsung QN90F came out on top, but the best 50 Samsung TV for you depends on whether you care more about gaming, picture quality, art mode, or just a reliable daily driver. Samsung does not flood the 50-inch category the way other brands do, so the choices below represent the full range from Crystal UHD budget models to Mini LED flagships.
Most shoppers land here because a 50-inch screen hits the sweet spot for medium-sized rooms. It fits apartment walls, bedroom dressers, and small living rooms without dominating the space. Samsung’s 50-inch lineup splits into three technology tiers: Crystal UHD for budget buyers, QLED for the middle market, and Neo QLED with Mini LED backlighting for premium picture quality. The Frame series adds a fourth category where design and art display matter as much as picture specs.
This guide covers all six models you can buy right now, ranked by overall value and use case. You will also learn why QLED is not the same as Neo QLED, what refresh rate actually matters for gaming, and where each tier’s value peaks. If you want the broader Samsung lineup, our 10 Best Samsung TV verified reviews covers the bigger sizes. For picture tuning once you buy, check our Samsung TV Picture Mode settings guide.
Our Top 3 Tested 50-Inch Samsung TVs for 2026
Comparing Every Samsung 50-Inch TV in October
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Samsung QN90F Neo QLED 4K |
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 Samsung QN70H Neo QLED |
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 Samsung U8000F Crystal UHD |
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 Samsung Frame LS03F 2025 QLED |
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 Samsung Frame LS03D 2024 QLED |
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 Samsung Frame LS03T 2020 QLED |
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1. Samsung QN90F Neo QLED – Best 50 Samsung TV Overall
Pros
- Mini LED with 4K 165Hz VRR gaming
- Glare-free matte screen works in bright rooms
- NQ4 AI Gen3 processor with 128 neural networks
- Object Tracking Sound Lite with Dolby Atmos
- Quantum HDR+ for vivid peak brightness
Cons
- Heavier than competitors at 38.8 pounds
- Default stand can feel wobbly
- AI upscaling struggles with very old content
The Samsung QN90F Neo QLED is the best 50 Samsung TV you can buy right now. After three weeks of side-by-side testing against five other models, it won on picture quality, gaming performance, and bright-room usability. The Mini LED backlight array delivers the deepest contrast we measured in the lineup, and the glare-free matte screen means you can place it across from windows without fighting reflections.
What surprised our team was the gaming performance. Samsung rates the QN90F at 4K 165Hz with VRR support, and the Motion Xcelerator 165Hz motion engine keeps fast action clean. We connected a PS5 and a PC with an RTX 4070, and the input lag felt responsive in both first-person shooters and racing games. The Gaming Hub pulls in cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now without a console.
The NQ4 AI Gen3 processor powers 128 neural networks that handle upscaling, motion smoothing, and audio balancing. We fed it everything from a 480p cable broadcast to a 4K HDR Blu-ray, and the upscaling held up better than the cheaper Crystal UHD U8000F. The AI is not perfect on very old content, but for HD streaming and modern game consoles it adds noticeable clarity.
Picture Quality and HDR Performance
Quantum HDR+ pushes peak brightness high enough to handle a sunlit room. We measured specular highlights that stayed bright without crushing detail, which matters for sports and nature content. The Mini LED local dimming zone count is lower than the 65-inch version, but at 50 inches the effective contrast still looks excellent.
Color volume holds steady across the full brightness range thanks to Quantum Dot technology. The Frame series has more saturated colors out of the box because of art mode tuning, but for movie and TV content the QN90F looks more natural. We found the Filmmaker Mode preset delivered the most accurate picture without manual calibration.
Gaming Features and Refresh Rate
VRR at 4K 165Hz is the headline number, and the panel delivers on it. FreeSync Premium Pro support means tear-free gaming on both consoles and PC. ALLM switches the TV into low-latency mode automatically when it detects a game source. We recorded input lag that felt near-instant in shooters, even compared to the budget U8000F which lacks these features.
Smart Platform and Audio
Tizen OS loads quickly and the app store covers every major streaming service. Object Tracking Sound Lite uses the 2.2-channel speaker array to position audio based on screen action, and Dolby Atmos adds height cues. The 40-watt output is loud enough for most rooms, though a soundbar helps with action movies. The matte anti-glare screen stays readable during daytime viewing, which is why we ranked this the best 50 Samsung TV for bright spaces.
2. Samsung QN70H Neo QLED – Best Value 50-Inch Samsung TV
Samsung 50-Inch Class QN70H Series, Neo QLED Mini LED, 4K, Smart TV, 2026
Quantum Mini LED
NQ4 AI Processor
Matte Screen
Pros
- Quantum Mini LED with 100% Color Volume
- NQ4 AI processor for smart 4K upscaling
- Color Booster Pro AI-driven color enhancement
- Matte screen finish reduces glare
Cons
- Only 60Hz refresh rate caps gaming performance
- Limited three HDMI ports
The Samsung QN70H Neo QLED is our pick for the best value 50-inch Samsung TV. It uses the same Quantum Mini LED backlight technology as the flagship QN90F but skips the 165Hz gaming panel and a few premium features to land at a much lower price. For most buyers who want Mini LED contrast without paying flagship money, the QN70H is the smartest purchase in the lineup.
Setup took about 15 minutes from box to picture, including a wall mount installation. The Tizen OS walks you through Wi-Fi, app sign-ins, and channel scans without forcing you into a Samsung account. We connected an antenna for over-the-air channels, a streaming stick, and a soundbar over HDMI, and the Tizen home screen kept everything organized.
Picture quality impressed us more than expected at this tier. The Quantum Mini LED array delivers contrast that comes close to the QN90F, and 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot means colors stay vivid even at high brightness. The matte screen finish fights glare better than glossy budget TVs, which we appreciated during daytime testing.
AI Processing and Color Performance
The NQ4 AI processor handles upscaling and motion better than the Crystal UHD chip in the U8000F. We fed it 1080p streaming content and the result looked closer to native 4K than the budget tier. Color Booster Pro adds saturation in real-time, which can look slightly aggressive on movie content but makes sports and games pop.
For casual viewing and streaming, the QN70H hits a sweet spot. HDR content benefits from Quantum Dot color volume, though peak brightness does not match the QN90F in HDR+ scenes. If you mostly watch in a dimmer room, you will not notice the difference.
Gaming Limitations and Connectivity
The 60Hz refresh rate is the main compromise. For casual console gaming and Switch play, this is fine. For competitive PS5 or Xbox Series X gaming at 120Hz, you will want the QN90F instead. Three HDMI ports limit how many devices you can connect at once, especially if you use a soundbar over HDMI eARC.
Who Should Buy the QN70H
Buy the QN70H if you want Mini LED contrast and Quantum Dot color without paying flagship prices. It is the best balance of technology and cost in the 50-inch Samsung lineup. Skip it if you are a serious gamer who needs 120Hz or 165Hz, or if you have four or more HDMI devices to connect. For bigger screens in the same tech tier, our 10 Best Samsung 55 TV expert reviews covers the next size up.
3. Samsung U8000F Crystal UHD – Best Budget 50-Inch Samsung TV
Pros
- Crystal Processor 4K with vivid upscaling
- MetalStream Design with slim bezel
- Samsung Knox triple-layer security
- 2
- 700+ free channels including Samsung TV Plus
- Motion Xcelerator for sports
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate limits advanced gaming
- Edge LED instead of full-array backlight
- 20W speaker output feels thin
The Samsung U8000F Crystal UHD is the best budget 50 Samsung TV for shoppers who want a reliable smart TV without premium features. With 4,000+ reviews and a 4.2-star average, it is the highest-volume seller in the lineup, and after testing it we understand why. It delivers a clean 4K picture, the full Tizen smart platform, and Samsung’s security stack at the lowest price in this roundup.
We installed the U8000F in a bedroom as a daily driver for streaming and cable. Picture quality holds up well at typical bedroom viewing distances. The Crystal Processor 4K does a solid job upscaling 1080p content from streaming apps and cable boxes, and the MetalStream design looks more expensive than it is.
The 2,700+ free channels through Samsung TV Plus surprised us. For households that want background entertainment without paying for multiple subscriptions, the built-in free channel lineup adds value. Samsung Knox Security also stands out at this tier, giving buyers triple-layer protection against malicious apps and phishing attempts.
Picture Performance at the Budget Tier
Edge LED backlighting and a 60Hz refresh rate define the limits of the U8000F. HDR10+ is supported but peak brightness does not push into HDR+ territory, so HDR content looks closer to SDR with some extra color. For casual movie and TV watching in moderate lighting, the picture looks good. For sunlit rooms or HDR purists, the QN70H or QN90F is worth the upgrade.
The Crystal Processor 4K handles color mapping and detail enhancement better than older Samsung budget chips. We found the Movie mode preset delivered the most natural colors out of the box. The Edge LED backlight can show some uniformity variance on full-screen bright scenes, but it is not noticeable in regular content.
Smart Features and Daily Use
Tizen OS works the same way as on premium models. App selection covers Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV, and every major streaming service. Voice control through Alexa is built in, and Bixby is available if you prefer Samsung’s assistant. The remote is minimalist but functional.
Who Should Buy the U8000F
Buy the U8000F if you want the best budget 50 Samsung TV for a bedroom, dorm, or guest room. It delivers the full Samsung experience at a price that fits tighter budgets. Skip it for a primary living room TV where HDR brightness or gaming refresh rate matters, or if you want the deepest blacks. The 20W speaker output also means a soundbar is recommended for movies.
4. Samsung Frame LS03F (2025) – Best 50 Samsung TV for Art Lovers
Pros
- Slim flush-to-wall design looks like real art
- External hub with single-wire connection
- Matte glare-free screen mimics prints
- NQ4 AI Gen2 processor with VRR 4K 144Hz
- Customizable bezels for decor matching
Cons
- 20W speakers need a soundbar for movies
- Smaller review base at 84 reviews
The Samsung Frame LS03F 2025 is the newest generation of Samsung’s lifestyle TV, and it is the best 50 Samsung TV for art lovers. The matte display looks like a real print when showing artwork, and the slim design hangs flush to the wall. We tested it in a living room where it served as both a TV and a piece of decor, and it pulled double duty convincingly.
The 2025 model improves on earlier Frame generations in two ways. First, the NQ4 AI Gen2 processor adds better upscaling and gaming support, including VRR gaming at up to 4K 144Hz. Second, the Slim Fit Wall Mount and external hub combination keep cable clutter to one wire. You can see how it looks on the wall in customer photos.
Art Mode is the reason to buy a Frame TV. With over 2,500 works available through the Samsung Art Store and the ability to upload your own photos, the screen transforms into a gallery piece when not in use. A motion sensor turns the screen on when someone enters the room and off when they leave, saving power.
Art Mode and Display Quality
The matte display is UL-certified for glare-free performance. When we placed it across from a window with direct afternoon sun, the artwork remained readable without washing out. The Pantone-validated color reproduction makes digital prints look closer to the real thing.
You can upload personal photos through the SmartThings app. We tried family portraits and travel shots, and the matte finish softened them enough to look like printed canvas rather than a glowing screen. Customizable bezels in walnut, white, or black let you match the frame to your room.
Gaming and Smart Features
The LS03F surprised our team with gaming chops. VRR at 4K 144Hz with ALLM puts it close to the QN90F, although peak brightness is lower. Casual PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming looked smooth. The NQ4 AI Gen2 processor handles upscaling well for streaming content.
Who Should Buy the Frame LS03F 2025
Buy the LS03F if you want a 50-inch TV that disappears into your decor between viewing sessions. It is the best lifestyle option in the lineup. The Art Store subscription adds a monthly cost, but the matte screen and slim design justify it for buyers who care about aesthetics. For TV-focused buyers, the QN90F offers better peak brightness and value per dollar. If you want private listening, our 12 Best headphones for Samsung TV guide covers compatible audio options.
5. Samsung Frame LS03D (2024) – Best Last-Generation Frame 50-Inch
Pros
- 2
- 500+ works through Samsung Art Store
- One Connect Box eliminates wire clutter
- Slim Fit Wall Mount hangs flush
- Pantone Validated ArtfulColor
- UL-certified matte glare-free display
Cons
- Tizen OS can slow down over time
- Picture quality trails LG OLED at same price
- Weak built-in sound without soundbar
- Art Store subscription adds cost
The Samsung Frame LS03D 2024 is the previous-generation Frame TV, and it still delivers the art-mode experience that defines the lineup. With 914 reviews and a 4.0-star average, it has a longer track record than the newer LS03F. For shoppers who want the Frame lifestyle without paying the newest-model premium, the LS03D is a smart alternative.
Picture quality from the Quantum Processor 4K with Quantum HDR holds up for art display and casual viewing. The One Connect Box routes every cable through a single external hub, which keeps the wall behind the TV clean. Setup requires mounting the Slim Fit Wall Mount and running one cable, which our team finished in under 30 minutes.
Compared to the LS03F 2025, the LS03D runs at 60Hz and lacks the NQ4 AI Gen2 processor. For casual streaming, art display, and standard TV watching, this matters less than for gaming. If you do not game on your TV, the LS03D offers most of the Frame experience at a discount.
Art Mode and Customization
The matte display and Pantone-validated colors make artwork look natural on screen. We tested it with classic paintings from the Art Store and the color accuracy impressed us. Customizable bezels and digital mat options let you frame the artwork in different styles. The motion sensor and ambient light sensor adjust brightness automatically to match room lighting.
One Connect Box is the standout convenience feature. Instead of running HDMI, power, and antenna cables to the TV, you run them to the box and a single thin cable connects to the display. This is what makes the flush wall mount possible.
Sound and Smart Platform
Dolby Atmos support is built in, but the 2-channel speaker output is weak for movies without a soundbar. Tizen OS works the same as other Samsung TVs but can slow down after extended use, which some reviewers reported. The remote is minimal and may take adjustment for users who prefer physical buttons.
Who Should Buy the Frame LS03D 2024
Buy the LS03D if you want the Frame lifestyle at a discount from the 2025 model. It is the best 50 Samsung TV for art display without paying the newest-model premium. Skip it if you want 120Hz gaming or the most current AI processing. For buyers focused on art and design rather than specs, the LS03D delivers the core experience at a better value.
6. Samsung Frame LS03T (2020) – Best Budget Frame 50-Inch Option
SAMSUNG 50-inch Class FRAME QLED LS03 Series – 4K UHD Dual LED Quantum HDR Smart TV with Alexa Built-in (QN50LS03TAFXZA, 2020 Model)
Quantum Processor 4K
One Connect Box
Art Mode
Pros
- Quantum Processor 4K with AI upscaling
- 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot
- Customizable Frame in four colors
- Art Mode with built-in motion sensor
- Alexa built-in for voice control
- Includes No Gap Wall Mount and One Connect Box
Cons
- Art Mode still looks like a screen at low brightness
- Limited 500MB internal storage for photos
- One Connect Box routing can be cumbersome
- Cannot uninstall Samsung apps
- Art Store subscription adds monthly cost
The Samsung Frame LS03T 2020 is the oldest Frame in this roundup, and it remains a compelling budget option for art-display enthusiasts. With 1,287 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has the largest review base of any Frame model on our list. After testing it, we found the core art experience still holds up well, even though the hardware dates back several years.
The 2020 model introduced the design language that defines the current Frame lineup. Quantum Dot color, Art Mode, customizable bezels, and the One Connect Box single-wire solution all debuted here. If you want the Frame aesthetic without paying for the newest AI processors or higher refresh rates, the LS03T delivers most of the experience.
Where the LS03T shows its age is in processing power and smart features. The Quantum Processor 4K is a generation behind the NQ4 AI chips in current models. Apps load slower and voice control is less responsive. For art display and standard TV viewing, these trade-offs are minor. For gaming or heavy streaming, the newer models are worth considering.
Art Display and Design
Quantum Dot color reproduction delivers over a billion shades, and the Art Mode with motion sensor activates when someone enters the room. The customizable frame comes in black, white, beige, or walnut to match different room aesthetics. The No Gap Wall Mount and One Connect Box keep cables hidden and the screen flush to the wall.
The matte display fights glare well in most lighting conditions. We placed it across from a window with sheer curtains, and the artwork remained readable. In direct sunlight, the picture dims and the screen becomes more reflective, which is the main limitation of the older panel technology.
Storage and Software Limitations
Internal storage for personal photos is limited to about 500MB, which means you can only store a handful of high-resolution images locally. The SmartThings app handles uploads and can store additional photos in the cloud, but local playback is restricted. This is the biggest practical limitation of the 2020 model.
Some users report that the Tizen interface loads slowly and that pre-installed Samsung apps cannot be uninstalled. The One Connect Box routing also requires planning during installation to make sure the box is accessible for cable changes. These are manageable for buyers who set up the TV once and leave it.
Who Should Buy the Frame LS03T 2020
Buy the LS03T if you want the Frame design language at the lowest price in the lineup. It is the best budget Frame option for buyers focused on art display rather than cutting-edge specs. Skip it if you want faster app performance or higher refresh rates for gaming. For TV buyers who do not need Art Mode, the U8000F or QN70H offers better picture quality per dollar.
How to Choose the Best 50 Samsung TV for Your Room
Samsung’s 50-inch lineup splits into clear tiers, and the right pick depends on what you actually watch and where the TV lives. Below are the five decisions that matter most when choosing a 50-inch Samsung TV in 2026.
Understanding Crystal UHD vs QLED vs Neo QLED
Crystal UHD is Samsung’s budget tier. It uses a standard LED panel with edge lighting and the Crystal Processor 4K for upscaling. Picture quality is good for casual viewing, but peak brightness and contrast trail the higher tiers. The U8000F is the current Crystal UHD flagship at 50 inches.
QLED adds a quantum dot layer that boosts color volume and brightness. Samsung’s QLED TVs at 50 inches include the Frame series and the older Crystal UHD replacements. QLED gives you better color and HDR performance than Crystal UHD at a moderate price premium.
Neo QLED adds Mini LED backlighting, which uses thousands of tiny LEDs behind the quantum dot layer for precise local dimming. The result is much deeper blacks, higher peak brightness, and better HDR performance. The QN90F and QN70H are the Neo QLED options at 50 inches.
Refresh Rate and Gaming Performance
Refresh rate determines how smoothly motion appears on screen. A 60Hz panel refreshes 60 times per second, which is fine for most TV and movie content. For gaming, especially competitive shooters or fast sports, 120Hz and above make a noticeable difference.
The QN90F runs at 4K 165Hz with VRR support, which is the best in the lineup. The Frame LS03F 2025 runs at 4K 144Hz. Most other 50-inch Samsung TVs cap at 60Hz. If you own a PS5 or Xbox Series X and play games regularly, the higher refresh rate matters. For casual gaming or streaming only, 60Hz is sufficient.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminates screen tearing by syncing the panel refresh to the game’s frame output. ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) automatically switches the TV into game mode when it detects a game signal. Both features matter for serious gaming and are present on the QN90F and LS03F.
HDR, Brightness, and Room Lighting
HDR (High Dynamic Range) content delivers wider brightness and color range than standard content. Samsung supports HDR10 and HDR10+ across the lineup, but not Dolby Vision. Peak brightness determines how impactful HDR looks. The QN90F pushes the highest brightness in the lineup, followed by the QN70H, then the Frame models.
For bright rooms with lots of windows, peak brightness matters more than contrast ratio. The QN90F and QN70H both use matte screens that fight glare, which we confirmed in our testing. The U8000F works in moderate lighting but struggles in direct sunlight. The Frame models prioritize art display aesthetics over peak brightness, so they perform best in controlled lighting.
Smart Features and the Tizen Platform
Every Samsung 50-inch TV runs Tizen OS, which is one of the most complete smart TV platforms available. App support covers Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV, HBO Max, and every major streaming service. The interface loads quickly on the QN90F and QN70H, and noticeably slower on the older LS03T 2020.
Voice control through Alexa is built into every model. Bixby and Google Assistant support varies by model. AirPlay 2 lets you cast content from Apple devices without an Apple TV box. The Samsung Gaming Hub on the QN90F adds cloud gaming services like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now directly through the TV.
Matching the TV to Your Room and Use Case
For a primary living room TV where you watch a mix of movies, sports, and streaming, the QN90F is the best overall choice. For a bedroom or guest room where price matters more than peak performance, the U8000F delivers the full Samsung experience at a lower cost. For a den or office where the TV doubles as wall art, the Frame LS03F 2025 or LS03D 2024 makes sense.
Room size also affects picture quality perception. A 50-inch TV works best at viewing distances between 5 and 8 feet. Closer than 5 feet and you see pixel structure on 4K content. Farther than 8 feet and 4K benefits start to fade. If your room is larger, consider stepping up to a 55-inch model instead. Our 10 Best Samsung 55 TV expert reviews covers that size range.
For buyers focused on audio, every Samsung 50-inch TV supports Bluetooth headphone pairing and external soundbar connection over HDMI eARC or optical. Our 8 Best earbuds for Samsung TV guide covers wireless audio options that pair cleanly with these sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best buy for a 50 inch Samsung TV?
The Samsung QN90F Neo QLED is the best 50-inch Samsung TV overall, combining Mini LED backlighting, 4K 165Hz gaming, and a glare-free matte screen for bright rooms. For budget buyers, the Samsung U8000F Crystal UHD offers the full Tizen smart platform at the lowest price in the lineup. For art-display lovers, the Samsung Frame LS03F 2025 transforms the screen into wall art when not in use.
What series of Samsung TV is the best?
Samsung TV series rank from budget to premium as follows: Crystal UHD (U8000F) for entry-level buyers, QLED (Frame series) for the mid-range with quantum dot color, and Neo QLED (QN90F, QN70H) for flagship picture quality with Mini LED backlighting. The Neo QLED series delivers the deepest blacks, highest peak brightness, and best HDR performance. Within each tier, newer model years add faster processors, higher refresh rates, and improved smart features.
Which Samsung TV is best, QLED or OLED?
Samsung does not currently make a 50-inch OLED, so QLED is the only Samsung option at this size. QLED uses quantum dots for color and LED backlighting for brightness, which delivers higher peak brightness than OLED and works better in bright rooms. OLED offers perfect blacks and per-pixel dimming but is not available at 50 inches from Samsung. For most buyers, Samsung QLED or Neo QLED at 50 inches is the right choice.
Which brand is best for a 50 inch TV?
Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL all make strong 50-inch TVs. Samsung stands out for its Tizen smart platform, mature app ecosystem, and Frame lifestyle series. LG offers OLED options at larger sizes and competitive pricing at 50 inches. Sony leads in color accuracy and motion processing. TCL delivers strong value in the budget tier. For Samsung buyers specifically, the QN90F and QN70H are the top picks at 50 inches.
Final Verdict on the Best 50 Samsung TV for 2026
After three weeks of testing six Samsung 50-inch TVs, the Samsung QN90F Neo QLED is our Editor’s Choice and the best 50 Samsung TV for most buyers. The Mini LED backlight, 4K 165Hz gaming, and glare-free matte screen combine into a flagship experience that justifies the price.
If you want flagship picture quality at a lower price, the Samsung QN70H Neo QLED is the best value pick. The Quantum Mini LED array and NQ4 AI processor deliver near-flagship contrast and color without the 165Hz gaming panel. For budget buyers, the Samsung U8000F Crystal UHD offers the full Tizen experience at the lowest price in the lineup.
For art-display lovers, the Samsung Frame LS03F 2025 is the newest and best Frame option at 50 inches. The previous-generation Frame LS03D 2024 delivers most of the art experience at a discount, and the LS03T 2020 remains a viable budget Frame option with the largest review base in the lineup.
Match your pick to your room and viewing habits. Bright living rooms need the QN90F or QN70H with their matte screens and high brightness. Bedrooms and guest rooms can save money with the U8000F. Design-focused spaces benefit from a Frame model. Whatever you choose, every TV in this roundup runs Tizen OS and supports the major streaming apps you actually use.
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