If you want to make the most of your video games, you need to match them up with a great TV. But what makes a TV gaming-ready, and how do you find the perfect TV for the next console generation?
Before we get into what makes a TV gaming-ready, we need to keep in mind that the best TVs are future-proof. The next console generation is right around the corner, and it’s set to be filled with beautiful 4K HDR games. So, if you want to make the most of next-gen gaming, you should try to find a future-proof 4K HDR TV.
The thing is, cheap 4K HDR TVs (and especially OLED TVs) tend to fall short in refresh rates and latency (the most important aspects of a gaming TV). If you aren’t prepared to drop $700-$2,000 on a gaming TV, you may have to settle for a 1080p TV, which is decidedly not future-proof. Or, you could do a little window shopping, save up some cash, and buy a future-proof TV a few months from now.
The Key Features of a Good Gaming TV
This article is going to dig into the details of what makes a TV great for gaming. These details are worth reading, but they can be a pain to dig through on-the-fly while you’re shopping.
So, here’s a quick list of the specs that you should look out for while shopping for a new gaming TV:
- Latency/Lag: The best gaming TVs are low latency. Ideally, you should only buy a gaming TV that has a latency of 30ms or less.
- Hz/Refresh Rate/FPS: Unless you’re a competitive gamer or an FPS-fiend, a 60Hz TV will be fine. Otherwise, aim for 120Hz.
- 4K and HDR: Again, if you can afford to buy a future-proof 4K HDR TV with low latency and a comfortable refresh rate, then do it.
- OLED: If you’re committed to 120Hz, skip OLED TVs. Otherwise, it’s worth buying one that offers low-latency and a comfortable refresh rate.
- Video Inputs: Don’t forget about HDMI, RCA, s-video, and coaxial inputs! Buy a TV with the inputs that you need.
Without further ado, let’s get into the details.
Low Lag Is Key
Before worrying about image quality or resolution, focus on finding a low-latency TV. Latency (or lag) is the time that it takes for your TV to display an image onscreen. When gaming, a ton of lag can ruin your ability to react to obstacles or enemies.
Most TVs have about 60ms of latency, which is considered pretty high for gamers. Hardcore gamers tend to aim as low as possible (some swear by 13ms TVs), but we suggest getting anything under 30ms.
Why are we mentioning latency before resolution or image quality? Well, because cheap 4K HDR TVs are burdened with a ton of latency. If you’re in the market for a $200 gaming TV, you might want to skip 4K and HDR and focus your money on a low-latency 1080p TV. (In this situation, it may be worth saving up to buy a future-proof TV. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on next-gen 4K HDR gaming).
