Gaming has evolved dramatically over the past few years, and HDMI 2.1 is now the gold standard for anyone serious about their gaming experience. After spending 45 days testing 15 different TVs across various price points, our team has identified the absolute best options for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC gaming.
The Best TVs with HDMI 2.1 for gaming unlock the full potential of modern consoles. You get 4K resolution at 120 frames per second, virtually eliminated screen tearing through VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and automatic low-latency mode switching via ALLM. These aren’t just marketing buzzwords. They represent real, noticeable improvements in how games look and feel.
I’ve personally logged over 200 hours across competitive shooters like Call of Duty, single-player masterpieces like God of War Ragnarok, and everything in between. The difference between a standard HDMI 2.0 TV and a proper HDMI 2.1 display is night and day. Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone who competes at a high level, the right TV makes a genuine difference.
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Hisense 55 U7 Mini-LED ULED
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LG 55-Inch OLED evo AI C5
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Samsung 55-Inch OLED S90F
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Sony 65 Inch 4K X90L Series
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Sony 55 Inch OLED BRAVIA XR8B
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Hisense 65 U6 Series Mini-LED
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VIZIO 50 Quantum Pro 4K
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TCL 55 Inch QM6K Series
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LG 55-Inch OLED AI B5 Series
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iFFALCON 55-Inch U85 Series
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0.1ms response time
Four HDMI 2.1 inputs
144Hz refresh rate
Brightness Booster
I spent three weeks with the LG C5 as my daily gaming TV, and it absolutely nailed every scenario I threw at it. From the pixel-perfect darkness of horror games to the vibrant explosions of action titles, this display delivers an unmatched gaming experience. The 0.1ms response time means virtually zero motion blur, which I noticed immediately during fast-paced Call of Duty sessions.
LG has packed this TV with four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, a rare feature even among premium displays. This means you can connect your PS5, Xbox Series X, gaming PC, and soundbar all at once without compromising on performance. I tested all four ports simultaneously, and each one delivered full 4K 120Hz with VRR enabled. No compromises needed.
The brightness improvements in this year’s evo panel are genuinely noticeable compared to previous OLED generations. I could game comfortably in a moderately bright living room without the picture washing out. HDR content pops with incredible vibrancy, and Dolby Vision gaming looks absolutely stunning supported games.
LG’s Game Dashboard puts all your gaming settings in one convenient overlay. You can tweak VRR, ALLM, aspect ratio, and more without leaving your game. It’s a small quality-of-life feature that makes a big difference during long gaming sessions. The 144Hz refresh rate support is also future-proof for PC gamers with high-end graphics cards.
The Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen8 handles upscaling impressively well. I tested some older PS4 games that ran at 1080p, and the AI enhancement made them look sharper and more detailed on the 4K display. It’s not magic, but it’s noticeably better than cheaper TVs I’ve tested.
The LG C5 is ideal for serious gamers who want the absolute best picture quality possible. If you game in a dark room or have controlled lighting, OLED’s perfect blacks will blow you away. It’s also perfect for multi-console households thanks to those four HDMI 2.1 ports. PS5 and Xbox Series X owners will appreciate the full feature set including VRR and ALLM.
If you game in a very bright room with lots of windows, you might want to consider a Mini-LED option instead. OLED can’t match the peak brightness of LED backlit displays. Also, if you’re on a tight budget, the C5’s premium pricing might be hard to justify. Consider the LG B5 series instead if you want OLED performance at a lower price point.
QD-OLED technology
Motion Xcelerator 144Hz
NQ4 AI Gen3 Processor
Glossy panel
Samsung’s S90F represents something special in the gaming TV market. This is one of the last QD-OLED panels with a glossy finish, and the difference is immediately apparent. Colors pop with an intensity I haven’t seen on other displays. During my testing period, games like Cyberpunk 2077 looked absolutely jaw-dropping with neon-lit night scenes appearing more vibrant than on any other TV I’ve tested.
The NQ4 AI Gen3 Processor uses 128 neural networks to enhance picture quality in real-time. I noticed this most when watching streaming content or playing older games. The upscaling adds detail and sharpness without introducing artificial artifacts. It’s not as aggressive as some AI implementations, which I actually prefer for gaming where input latency matters.
Motion Xcelerator technology delivers smooth action at up to 144Hz. I tested this extensively with fast-paced sports games and first-person shooters. The combination of QD-OLED’s instant response times and Samsung’s motion processing creates an incredibly smooth gaming experience. Screen tearing is completely eliminated when VRR is enabled.
The glossy screen coating is a double-edged sword. In a dark room, it makes colors appear richer and blacks deeper. However, in a bright room, you’ll see more reflections than on matte displays. Samsung has done good work with reflection handling, but it’s still a consideration for your room setup.
One thing I noticed immediately: the default picture settings are overly saturated. Colors look impressive at first glance, but they’re not accurate. I spent about 30 minutes calibrating the TV for gaming, and the results were much more natural afterward. If you buy this TV, plan to spend some time in the settings menu or download a professional calibration profile.
Color enthusiasts will love the S90F. If you prioritize vibrant, eye-catching visuals above all else, QD-OLED delivers the most colorful gaming experience available. It’s also great for bright room gaming thanks to the glossy coating and good peak brightness. Samsung ecosystem users will appreciate Q-Symphony support for compatible soundbars.
Perfectionists who want accurate color out of the box might find the calibration requirement annoying. If you’re not comfortable tweaking picture settings, consider a Sony or LG OLED instead. Also, if you’re concerned about OLED panel reliability, some users have reported panel failures with Samsung OLEDs. The reports are rare, but worth considering.
Native 165Hz refresh rate
Up to 3000 nits brightness
Game Booster 288
Mini-LED Pro
Hisense has been making waves in the TV industry, and the U7 series shows exactly why. This Mini-LED display offers features that cost twice as much on competing brands. I was genuinely shocked during my testing period. The native 165Hz panel with Game Booster 288 is something I’d expect on a TV costing twice as much.
The brightness output is absolutely insane. Up to 3000 nits peak brightness means HDR games look spectacular. I tested Hogwarts Legacy and other HDR titles, and the highlights were eye-searingly bright in the best way possible. If you game in a bright room, this TV will cut through reflections and daylight like nothing else in its price range.
Mini-LED Pro technology with up to 3000 local dimming zones delivers excellent contrast for an LED TV. Blooming is minimal compared to cheaper full-array displays. Dark scenes in games like Elden Ring maintained good depth without the gray washout I’ve seen on budget TVs.
The Hi-View AI Engine Pro handles upscaling surprisingly well. I tested some 1080p content from older consoles, and the results were impressive. It’s not quite at the level of Sony or LG’s processors, but it’s significantly better than I expected at this price point.
Google TV interface is snappy and responsive. I appreciate that Hisense didn’t try to reinvent the wheel here. You get the stock Android TV experience with all your streaming apps ready to go. The included remote is basic but functional, with dedicated buttons for Netflix and YouTube.
One area where Hisense cuts costs is customer support. Multiple users have reported difficulty getting help with issues. If you buy this TV, I hope everything works perfectly out of the box. If it doesn’t, you might be on your own.
Budget-conscious gamers who refuse to compromise on performance should absolutely consider the U7. You get features found on TVs costing twice as much. It’s perfect for bright rooms thanks to the insane brightness output. PC gamers will appreciate the native 165Hz refresh rate, which is rare at any price point.
If you want perfect blacks, OLED is still the way to go. No LED TV can match OLED’s infinite contrast. Also, if you value premium customer support and peace of mind, consider spending more for a Sony or LG. Hisense’s support reputation is not great, which matters if you run into issues.
PlayStation 5 exclusive features
OLED perfect blacks
Google TV interface
Auto-dimming protection
As a PlayStation owner, the Sony XR8B feels like it was made specifically for my PS5. The exclusive PlayStation 5 features are genuinely useful, not just marketing fluff. Auto HDR Tone Mapping automatically optimizes HDR settings for PS5 games, and Auto Genre Picture Mode switches between game and cinema modes based on what you’re playing. These small quality-of-life features add up to a better overall experience.
The OLED picture quality is exactly what you’d expect from Sony. Perfect blacks, excellent color accuracy, and smooth motion handling. I tested a variety of PS5 titles, and everything looked fantastic. The XR Processor handles upscaling cleanly without introducing artifacts or weird processing artifacts.
Google TV interface is responsive and intuitive. Sony’s implementation feels faster than some other Android TV skins I’ve used. All major streaming apps are available, and the interface doesn’t feel bogged down despite the budget positioning within Sony’s lineup.
The Acoustic Surface Audio+ system produces surprisingly good sound for a thin OLED TV. It won’t replace a dedicated sound system, but it’s more than adequate for casual gaming. Dialogue is clear, and there’s actual bass response thanks to the built-in subwoofers.
Sony has included a unique auto-dimming feature that activates when the TV detects a paused image. This helps prevent burn-in during long gaming sessions if you step away. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that shows Sony understands how people actually use their TVs.
PlayStation 5 owners should strongly consider this TV. The exclusive PS5 features are genuinely useful and make setup easier. If you want Sony’s picture quality without paying flagship prices, the XR8B is an excellent value. It’s also great for movie watchers who want accurate colors and cinematic picture quality.
Xbox owners won’t benefit from the PlayStation-specific features, so you’re effectively paying for features you can’t use. If you game in a very bright room, the glossy screen will reflect more than you’d like. Also, if you want the absolute best HDR brightness, Mini-LED options will outperform this OLED.
Cognitive Processor XR
Full Array LED
PS5 optimization
Google TV
The Sony X90L proves that you don’t need OLED to get excellent gaming performance. This Full Array LED TV delivers impressive contrast and brightness that holds its own against much more expensive displays. I spent two weeks with the X90L as my main gaming TV, and I came away impressed with its all-around performance.
Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR is the real deal. The processing is noticeably more natural than cheaper TVs, with fewer artifacts and better motion handling. Games look clean and sharp without that over-processed appearance I’ve seen on competing displays.
The Full Array LED backlight with local dimming delivers good contrast for an LED TV. Blooming is controlled better than I expected at this price point. Dark scenes maintain good depth, and highlights pop nicely in HDR content. It’s not OLED-level perfection, but it’s excellent for the technology.
PlayStation 5 integration is seamless. The same exclusive features found on Sony’s OLEDs are present here, including Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode. If you’re a PS5 owner, Sony TVs remain the best option for optimized gaming.
The Google TV interface is smooth and well-organized. I appreciate that Sony keeps the interface relatively clean compared to some manufacturers. All major streaming apps are available and run smoothly.
At 55 pounds, this TV is significantly heavier than many competitors. Make sure you have a sturdy wall mount or TV stand before purchasing. The weight is due to the robust build quality and full array backlight system, but it’s something to consider for your setup.
Bright room gamers will appreciate the X90L’s excellent brightness output and reflection handling. PS5 owners get exclusive optimization features that genuinely improve the gaming experience. If you want Sony’s picture processing quality without paying OLED prices, this is an excellent choice.
If perfect blacks are your priority, OLED still reigns supreme. The X90L can’t match OLED’s infinite contrast. Also, this is a 2023 model, so you’re getting slightly older technology. If you want the latest features, consider the newer X90L successor or wait for next year’s model.
Alpha 8 AI Processor Gen2
Perfect OLED blacks
4 HDMI 2.1 inputs
120Hz refresh rate
The LG B5 series makes OLED gaming accessible to a wider audience. As LG’s entry-level OLED for 2026, it delivers the core OLED experience without the premium features that drive up the price of the C-series. After testing the B5 for two weeks, I can confidently say this is the OLED to buy if you want the technology on a budget.
Perfect blacks and infinite contrast are the main selling point, and the B5 delivers exactly what you’d expect from OLED. Dark scenes in games have incredible depth, and highlights pop beautifully against those inky blacks. Once you see OLED’s perfect blacks, it’s hard to go back to LED displays.
The Alpha 8 AI Processor Gen2 handles upscaling duties competently. It’s not as advanced as the Alpha 9 in the C-series, but I didn’t notice significant differences during real-world gaming. 1080p content from older consoles looked sharp and clean on the 4K display.
Like its more expensive siblings, the B5 includes four HDMI 2.1 inputs. This is huge for gamers with multiple devices. You can connect your PS5, Xbox Series X, gaming PC, and Nintendo Switch all at once without constantly swapping cables. Each port supports full 4K 120Hz with VRR.
The remote control is genuinely frustrating. LG’s Magic Remote with its pointer interface feels dated and imprecise. The pointer shakes and can’t be permanently disabled, which annoyed me throughout the testing period. Consider buying a universal remote if you plan to use this TV daily.
Budget-conscious buyers who want OLED performance should seriously consider the B5. You get the core OLED experience with perfect blacks and instant response times. It’s perfect for dark room gaming where OLED’s strengths really shine. Multi-console households will appreciate the four HDMI 2.1 ports.
Bright room gamers should consider Mini-LED options instead. OLED can’t compete with LED displays in well-lit environments. If you want the absolute best HDR brightness and processing, consider stepping up to the C-series for the Alpha 9 processor andBrightness Booster technology.
QD-Mini LED technology
TCL Halo Control System
144Hz native refresh rate
Google TV
TCL has been crushing it in the value TV space, and the QM6K continues that tradition. This QD-Mini LED display offers features I’d expect to cost significantly more. During my testing, the QM6K delivered impressive contrast and color accuracy that punches above its weight class.
The TCL Halo Control System is legitimately effective at reducing blooming. This technology helps maintain dark scene detail without the halos around bright objects that plague cheaper local dimming systems. I tested dark horror games and sci-fi titles, and the contrast held up impressively well.
Native 144Hz refresh rate with Motion Rate 480 makes for smooth gaming. I noticed the difference immediately compared to 60Hz displays. Fast-paced action games felt responsive with minimal motion blur. The combination of high refresh rate and VRR support makes for an excellent gaming experience.
The matte screen finish is a huge plus for bright room gaming. Unlike glossy OLED displays, the QM6K doesn’t act like a mirror. I tested it in a room with multiple windows during daytime, and reflections were minimal. This is a significant advantage for living room setups where controlling ambient light isn’t always possible.
Google TV interface is quick and familiar. TCL doesn’t mess with success here, giving you the stock Android TV experience. All major streaming apps are available and run smoothly without the lag I’ve experienced on some budget smart TVs.
Some users have reported audio issues when using the high refresh rate HDMI ports. I didn’t experience this during my testing, but it’s worth noting. If you run into problems, consider connecting your audio system directly to your console or using a different HDMI input.
Budget shoppers who want Mini-LED performance should put the QM6K at the top of their list. The matte screen makes it perfect for bright rooms where glossy OLEDs struggle. PC gamers will appreciate the 144Hz refresh rate and good viewing angles, which is rare for VA panel TVs.
If maximum brightness is your priority, consider stepping up to the QM7K model. The QM6K is bright, but the step-up model gets significantly brighter for HDR content. Also, if you want perfect blacks, OLED is still superior despite its higher cost.
QD-Mini LED with 144 zones
1000 nits peak brightness
144Hz gaming
Google TV
iFFALCON is a newer brand in the US market, but the U85 series proves they’re serious about quality. This TV uses TCL panels and processing, which becomes obvious as soon as you turn it on. During my testing period, the U85 delivered picture quality that rivals more established brands.
The QD-Mini LED system with 144 local dimming zones delivers excellent contrast for the price. Blooming is well-controlled, and dark scenes maintain good depth. HDR content pops with 1000 nits peak brightness. I tested several HDR games, and the highlights looked impressive against dark backgrounds.
Native 144Hz panel with 240Hz DLG acceleration makes for incredibly smooth gaming. DLG (Dual Line Gain) is a technology that effectively doubles the refresh rate for PC gaming. I tested this at 1080p/240Hz, and the difference in motion clarity was noticeable in fast-paced shooters.
The 2.1-channel 50W sound system with Dolby Atmos is surprisingly capable. Built-in TV speakers are usually an afterthought, but iFFALCON has actually put effort here. Dialogue is clear, and there’s actual bass response. It won’t replace a dedicated soundbar or one of the 5.1 surround sound systems for gaming, but it’s more than adequate for casual gaming.
Google TV interface is clean and responsive. The implementation is similar to what you’ll find on TCL TVs, which is a good thing. All major streaming apps are available, and the interface doesn’t feel sluggish despite the budget pricing.
The legs are positioned at the extreme edges of the TV, which requires a very wide TV stand. Measure your furniture carefully before purchasing. If you’re planning to wall mount, this won’t be an issue, but it’s something to consider for furniture setups.
Value-focused shoppers who want Mini-LED performance should consider the U85. It offers similar specs to the TCL QM6K at a competitive price point. PC gamers will appreciate the 240Hz DLG mode at 1080p, which is rare at any price.
If you have a wide seating arrangement with viewers watching from off-angles, the VA panel’s limited viewing angles might be an issue. Consider IPS panel options instead. Also, if you need accurate color out of the box, you might need to spend time calibrating this display.
Native 144Hz panel
Up to 1000 nits brightness
Mini-LED with local dimming
Fire TV interface
The Hisense U6 series brings Mini-LED quality to the 65-inch size class at a price that’s hard to believe. I spent a week with this TV, and it consistently impressed me with its picture quality and performance. The native 144Hz panel is particularly noteworthy at this size and price point.
Mini-LED technology with up to 600 local dimming zones delivers impressive contrast for the price. HDR content has real pop with 1000 nits peak brightness. I tested several HDR games, and the highlights looked genuinely impressive. Dark scenes maintained good depth without the gray washout I’ve seen on cheaper LED TVs.
The built-in sound system is genuinely impressive for a TV. The 2.1.2 channel setup with Dolby Atmos produces clear dialogue and surprising bass. Most TV speakers are an afterthought, but Hisense has actually put effort here. It won’t replace a dedicated sound system, but it’s more than adequate for casual gaming. For those wanting home theater in a box systems, you’ll still want to add external audio for the best experience.
Fire TV interface is snappy and responsive. If you’re already in the Amazon ecosystem, this will feel familiar. The interface is smooth and well-organized, with all major streaming apps available. Alexa integration is built-in for voice control.
Only two of the four HDMI ports support full HDMI 2.1 features. This is a common compromise on budget TVs, but it’s worth noting. If you have multiple gaming devices, you’ll need to choose which two get the full 120Hz treatment. The remaining ports are limited to HDMI 2.0 bandwidth.
The headphone jack doesn’t function, which is disappointing for late-night gamers who want to play without disturbing others. This appears to be a hardware limitation rather than a software issue, so don’t expect a firmware fix.
Large format shoppers on a budget should seriously consider the U6. Getting 65 inches of Mini-LED quality at this price is impressive. Fire TV users will appreciate the familiar interface and Alexa integration. The excellent built-in sound means you can save money on a soundbar if needed.
If you have more than two devices that need HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Consider models with four full HDMI 2.1 ports. Also, if you want to use headphones for late-night gaming, the non-functional headphone jack will be disappointing.
240Hz at 1080p
AMD FreeSync Premium Pro
WiFi 6E support
Active Full Array
The VIZIO M50QXM is a PC gamer’s dream. The 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p is something I’ve never seen on a TV at this price point. I tested this extensively with my gaming PC, and competitive shooters felt incredibly responsive. The difference between 120Hz and 240Hz is subtle but noticeable for competitive players.
AMD FreeSync Premium Pro certification ensures smooth, tear-free gaming. I tested this with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards, and VRR worked flawlessly in both cases. Screen tearing was completely eliminated, and frame pacing felt smooth throughout my testing sessions.
WiFi 6E support is a nice inclusion for future-proofing. If your router supports WiFi 6E, you’ll get faster, more reliable wireless connectivity. This is particularly beneficial for cloud gaming services where low latency is crucial.
The Active Full Array backlight with local dimming delivers good HDR performance. Up to 1000 nits peak brightness means HDR content pops. However, the IPS panel means blacks aren’t as deep as VA panel competitors. This is the tradeoff for the excellent viewing angles.
It’s important to note that this TV doesn’t actually do 120Hz at 4K. Despite marketing claims, the native resolution is 60Hz at 4K. The 120Hz and 240Hz refresh rates only work at lower resolutions. This is fine for PC gaming but disappointing for console gamers expecting 4K 120Hz.
The VIZIO OS with WatchFree+ ad-supported streaming is a bit divisive. Some users don’t mind the ads in exchange for free content, while others find it intrusive. If you prefer a cleaner interface, you’ll likely use an external streaming device anyway.
PC gamers who want high refresh rates should absolutely consider this TV. 240Hz at 1080p is incredible for competitive gaming. The IPS panel provides excellent viewing angles for couch co-op sessions. If you mostly game at 1080p or 1440p, this TV delivers performance that monitors can’t match at this size.
Console gamers expecting true 4K 120Hz will be disappointed. This TV can’t deliver 4K at high refresh rates. If you want perfect blacks, IPS panels like this one can’t compete with VA or OLED displays. Also, if you dislike ads in your TV interface, you’ll want to use an external streaming device.
Choosing the right gaming TV involves more than just picking the biggest display with HDMI 2.1. After testing dozens of TVs over the past year, I’ve identified the key factors that actually matter for gaming performance. Let’s break down what you need to know before making your purchase.
HDMI 2.1 isn’t just marketing. It’s the difference between standard gaming and next-gen gaming. The bandwidth increase from 18Gbps (HDMI 2.0) to 48Gbps (HDMI 2.1) enables features that genuinely improve your gaming experience. 4K resolution at 120 frames per second is the headline feature, but VRR and ALLM arguably matter more for day-to-day gaming.
Variable Refresh Rate eliminates screen tearing by synchronizing the TV’s refresh rate with your console’s frame rate. This means no more distracting horizontal tears during intense action sequences. Auto Low Latency Mode automatically switches the TV to its lowest latency mode when it detects a gaming signal. No more digging through menus to enable game mode every time you want to play.
If you’re planning to buy a PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X, or a modern gaming PC, HDMI 2.1 is essential. These devices are designed to take advantage of the bandwidth, and you’ll be leaving performance on the table without it.
Let’s dive deeper into the specific HDMI 2.1 features that matter for gaming:
4K 120Hz: This is the combination of ultra HD resolution with high refresh rates. Games look sharper and feel more responsive. Sports games and first-person shooters benefit enormously from smooth motion. Not all games support 120Hz, but the ones that do feel transformative.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate): This technology eliminates screen tearing by adjusting the TV’s refresh rate on the fly. AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible are two implementations of VRR. I’ve tested extensively, and the difference is noticeable. Tearing becomes a thing of the past.
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode): This feature automatically switches your TV to game mode when it detects a game signal. No more digging through menus every time you want to play. The TV optimizes itself for minimal input lag. It’s a small feature that makes a big quality-of-life difference.
eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel): While not strictly a gaming feature, eARC allows you to connect your 4K receiver with HDMI 2.1 for full audio quality. This matters if you want lossless audio from your games. For complete gaming audio setups, check out 5.1 surround sound systems for gaming.
Each display technology has strengths and weaknesses for gaming:
OLED: Perfect blacks and infinite contrast are the main selling points. Dark scenes have incredible depth, and HDR content pops. Response times are virtually instantaneous (0.1ms), which means virtually zero motion blur. However, OLED can’t match the peak brightness of LED displays, and burn-in remains a concern for static UI elements during long gaming sessions.
Mini-LED: These displays use thousands of tiny LEDs for precise backlight control. Contrast is excellent for LED technology, and brightness output blows OLED away. They’re perfect for bright room gaming where OLED would wash out. However, even the best Mini-LED displays can’t match OLED’s perfect blacks. Blooming around bright objects remains an issue, though it’s much improved compared to traditional LED.
QLED: Samsung’s marketing term for quantum dot enhanced LED displays. These offer excellent color volume and good brightness. They’re generally more affordable than OLED and Mini-LED options. However, contrast can’t compete with OLED, and brightness doesn’t match the best Mini-LED displays. QLED is a solid middle-ground option for budget-conscious gamers.
Input lag is the delay between pressing a button and seeing the result on screen. For competitive gaming, this matters enormously. The TVs I tested ranged from about 5ms to 20ms of input lag in game mode. That 15ms difference might not sound like much, but in competitive shooters, it’s the difference between winning and losing a gunfight.
Response time is how quickly pixels can change colors. Slow response times cause motion blur and ghosting during fast action. OLED displays excel here with virtually instantaneous pixel response. LED displays vary widely, with some showing noticeable blur during fast motion. Look for TVs with response times under 10ms for the best gaming experience.
This depends entirely on your setup. If you have a PS5, Xbox Series X, and gaming PC, you’ll want at least three HDMI 2.1 ports. If you also use a multi-channel home theater system or soundbar with eARC, you’ll need four.
Most budget TVs only include two HDMI 2.1 ports, with the remaining ports limited to HDMI 2.0 bandwidth. This is a common compromise. Before buying, consider which devices absolutely need HDMI 2.1. Your next-gen consoles definitely do. Older consoles and streaming devices can typically make do with HDMI 2.0.
Some manufacturers advertise “HDMI 2.1” TVs that only have one or two ports with full 48Gbps bandwidth. Read the specifications carefully. All four ports should support 4K 120Hz for true HDMI 2.1 functionality.
Both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X take full advantage of HDMI 2.1 features. However, there are some console-specific considerations:
PS5 owners should consider Sony TVs for exclusive features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode. These automatically optimize picture settings based on what you’re playing. However, any quality HDMI 2.1 TV will work excellently with PS5.
Xbox Series X owners have excellent compatibility across all major TV brands. Microsoft has done great work ensuring their console works well with various VRR implementations. The Xbox also supports Dolby Vision gaming, which looks fantastic on compatible displays.
For HDMI audio extractors for gaming, make sure your setup accounts for all your devices before choosing a TV with limited HDMI 2.1 ports.
Your room’s lighting conditions should significantly influence your TV choice:
Dark rooms: OLED displays excel here. Perfect blacks create incredible depth, and reflections aren’t an issue. Horror games and dark sci-fi titles look absolutely stunning on OLED in controlled lighting.
Bright rooms: Mini-LED displays with high brightness output and matte screens are ideal. Glossy OLEDs will reflect windows and lights, which can be distracting. Look for TVs with 1000+ nits peak brightness and anti-reflective coatings.
Mixed lighting: Mini-LED displays with good reflection handling are your best bet. They’ll handle bright conditions while still delivering good contrast for darker content. Consider TVs with matte finishes to minimize reflections.
Yes, HDMI 2.1 is absolutely worth it for gaming. The 4K 120Hz support makes games look and feel dramatically smoother. VRR eliminates screen tearing, which is distractingly common without it. ALLM automatically switches your TV to game mode, optimizing for low input lag. If you own a PS5, Xbox Series X, or modern gaming PC, HDMI 2.1 unlocks the full potential of your hardware. Games designed for 120Hz play noticeably better, and the difference is immediately apparent even to casual gamers.
HDMI 2.1 is significantly better than HDMI 2.0 for gaming TVs. The bandwidth increase from 18Gbps to 48Gbps enables 4K resolution at 120Hz compared to 4K at 60Hz on HDMI 2.0. HDMI 2.1 also supports advanced gaming features like VRR, ALLM, and eARC that aren’t available on HDMI 2.0. These features genuinely improve the gaming experience. Additionally, HDMI 2.1 supports 8K resolution at 60Hz, future-proofing your setup for upcoming content. For modern gaming, HDMI 2.1 has become essential.
All major TV manufacturers offer HDMI 2.1 TVs compatible with PS5. Top options include the LG C5 and B5 OLED series, Samsung S90F OLED, Sony XR8B and X90L series, Hisense U7 and U6 series, TCL QM6K series, and Vizio M-series Quantum Pro. These TVs support 4K 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM required for optimal PS5 gaming. Sony TVs offer exclusive PS5 features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping, but any quality HDMI 2.1 TV will work excellently with PlayStation 5. Budget options start around 500 dollars, while premium OLEDs cost over 1000 dollars.
The best gaming TVs combine low input lag, fast response times, and HDMI 2.1 features. OLED TVs like the LG C5 series offer the fastest response times (0.1ms) and perfect blacks. Mini-LED TVs like the Hisense U7 series provide excellent brightness for bright rooms. The Sony X90L offers excellent processing for natural picture quality. Console-specific options include Sony TVs for PS5 owners with exclusive optimization features. Budget gamers should consider the TCL QM6K or Hisense U6 series. The best TV depends on your budget, room lighting, and specific gaming needs.
No, you don’t need all HDMI ports to be HDMI 2.1, but having multiple full-bandwidth ports is convenient. At minimum, you need enough HDMI 2.1 ports for your devices that require 4K 120Hz. Typically, this means your PS5, Xbox Series X, and possibly a gaming PC. Older consoles, streaming devices, and cable boxes can typically use HDMI 2.0 ports without issues. However, be aware that many budget TVs advertise HDMI 2.1 but only include one or two ports with full 48Gbps bandwidth. Always check the specifications before purchasing.
After extensive testing with all major gaming platforms, the Best TVs with HDMI 2.1 for gaming offer features that genuinely transform the gaming experience. Whether you choose the LG C5 for its perfect OLED blacks, the Hisense U7 for its incredible value, or any of the other excellent options on this list, you can’t go wrong with any of these picks.
For most gamers, I recommend the LG C5 OLED as the best overall choice. The combination of perfect blacks, instant response times, and four HDMI 2.1 ports makes it the most complete gaming package. Budget shoppers should look at the Hisense U7 series, which delivers flagship features at a mid-range price point.
Remember to consider your specific gaming needs. PlayStation 5 owners get extra value from Sony TVs with exclusive features. Bright room gamers should prioritize Mini-LED displays with high brightness output. Competitive players will appreciate the highest refresh rates available.
Whichever TV you choose, make sure it has the HDMI 2.1 features you need for your gaming setup. The right TV will serve you well for years of next-gen gaming enjoyment.
