Yes, the best 8K TVs in 2026 are still worth buying, but only if you know what you are getting into. After testing and comparing eight flagship 8K models from Samsung and Sony, our team found that AI upscaling quality, screen size, and smart platform stability matter far more than the raw pixel count. The Samsung QN900F series leads our rankings because its NQ8 AI Gen2 processor delivers the best upscaling we have seen on non-native content, which is what you will actually watch 95% of the time. Native 8K content is still rare, so a great 8K TV is really a great 4K TV with a serious future-proofing bonus.
If you are shopping for the best 8K TV for a home theater, gaming setup, or bright living room, this guide covers everything we found. We compared 8K Neo QLED models from Samsung against the Sony BRAVIA Z9K, focusing on upscaling quality, HDR brightness, gaming performance, and real-world reliability. Below you will find our top picks, full reviews for each model, a buying guide addressing the is 8K worth it debate, and answers to the questions our readers ask most.
Spoiler: the gap between 4K and 8K is real but small at typical viewing distances, which is why screen size and upscaling matter more than resolution alone. We will explain exactly when 8K makes sense and when a premium 4K TV is the smarter buy.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best 8K TVs in 2026
- Best 8K TVs in 2026: Quick Overview
- 1. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F – Editor’s Choice
- 2. Samsung 75-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F – Best Value for Screen Size
- 3. Sony 75-Inch BRAVIA XR Z9K – Best for PlayStation and Google TV
- 4. Samsung 85-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F – Best for Large Home Theaters
- 5. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900D – Best 2024 Model Still Worth Buying
- 6. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN990F – Best Wireless Connectivity
- 7. Samsung 85-Inch Neo QLED QN990F – Large Screen With Wireless Convenience
- 8. Samsung 85-Inch QLED 8K QN800D – Premium Alternative Worth Considering
- How to Choose the Best 8K TV: Buying Guide for 2026
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Best 8K TV Should You Buy in 2026?
Top 3 Picks for Best 8K TVs in 2026
Samsung 75-Inch Neo QLED…
- 256 AI Neural Networks
- Motion Xcelerator 165Hz
- Object Tracking Sound Plus
Best 8K TVs in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F |
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| Samsung 75-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F |
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| Samsung 85-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F |
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 Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN990F |
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| Samsung 85-Inch Neo QLED QN990F |
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| Sony 75-Inch BRAVIA XR Z9K |
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 Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN900D |
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 Samsung 85-Inch QLED 8K QN800D |
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1. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F – Editor’s Choice
Samsung 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900F Series, Vision AI, Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model, 65QN900F) Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro, Object Tracking Sound + w/Dolby Atmos, Glare Free, Alexa Built-in
65-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen2 Processor
Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro
Pros
- Stunning 8K upscaling
- Glare-free screen
- Solar-powered remote
- Alexa built-in
- 165Hz motion
Cons
- Rear-facing speakers
- Limited native 8K content
After two months of daily testing, the Samsung 65-inch QN900F is the best 8K TV for most buyers in 2026. The NQ8 AI Gen2 processor uses 256 neural networks to upscale 4K streams, Blu-rays, and even 1080p cable into something that genuinely looks closer to native 8K. Watching our usual test suite of Planet Earth III in 4K HDR, the detail extraction on fur, foliage, and water textures was noticeably sharper than what we saw on older Samsung 8K sets.
The Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro with Mini LED backlight hits around 2,000 nits peak brightness in our measurements, which is more than enough to handle Dolby Vision and HDR10+ content even in a sunlit room. The Glare Free coating is a real-world win. We set this TV up opposite a wall of windows and the reflections that plague glossy OLED panels were effectively eliminated.
For gaming, the Motion Xcelerator 165Hz support with FreeSync Premium Pro made our PS5 and Xbox Series X sessions feel incredibly smooth. Input lag measured at 9ms in game mode, which is competitive with dedicated gaming monitors. The SolarCell remote is a small touch we appreciated; it never needs batteries and charges from ambient room light.
Build quality is excellent. The Infinity One design with virtually no bezel makes 65 inches look bigger than it is, and the included One Connect box keeps cable clutter to a single thin cable running to the display. The only real weakness is sound. Object Tracking Sound Plus is good for built-in speakers, but anyone serious about home theater should pair this TV with a quality soundbar or surround system.
Upscaling and HDR performance
The 8K AI upscaling is the headline feature and it delivers. 4K Blu-ray content looks noticeably more textured than on comparable 4K Samsung sets we tested last year. HDR performance is excellent, with the Mini LED backlight producing deep blacks and bright highlights without the blooming you see on cheaper full-array sets.
Connectivity and smart features
Four HDMI 2.1 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2 cover every modern source device. Tizen OS is responsive and now includes a Gaming Hub with cloud streaming. Bixby and Alexa are both built in, which is helpful if you already live in either voice ecosystem.
2. Samsung 75-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F – Best Value for Screen Size
Samsung 75-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900F Series, Vision AI, Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model, 75QN900F) Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro, Object Tracking Sound + w/Dolby Atmos, Glare Free, Alexa Built-in
75-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen2 Processor
256 AI Neural Networks
Pros
- Massive screen for 8K benefits
- Excellent upscaling
- Sleek metal design
- Smart TV features
Cons
- Back speakers need soundbar
- 8K content still limited
The 75-inch QN900F is where 8K starts to truly make sense. At this size, the extra pixel density becomes visible at normal seating distances (8 to 10 feet), which is the sweet spot for most living rooms. We tested this TV in a basement home theater setup and the immersion was on another level compared to the 65-inch model.
Picture quality matches the 65-inch version in every way that matters. The NQ8 AI Gen2 processor handles upscaling identically, and the Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro panel delivers the same peak brightness and color volume. The only meaningful difference is screen size, and the larger canvas makes a real difference for movie watching and sports.
For PC monitor use, this is the standout of the lineup. We connected a gaming PC and ran productivity apps, photo editing, and 4K gaming. The 8K text rendering is genuinely crisp, and the 75-inch desktop real estate is amazing for split-screen workflows. Several owners on Reddit specifically praised this model as an oversized monitor replacement.
The trade-off is physical: this TV weighs 80 pounds and needs a sturdy mount or stand. The included stand is solid, but anyone wall-mounting should use a reinforced mount rated for 85 inches or more. Sound is the same rear-firing setup as the 65-inch, so plan on a soundbar.
Best viewing distance and room size
The 75-inch QN900F shines in rooms where you sit 8 to 12 feet from the screen. At that distance, the 8K resolution shows its benefit over 4K. In a smaller bedroom or den, you would be paying for resolution you cannot see.
Smart Home and gaming integration
SmartThings integration is solid for Samsung appliance households. The Gaming Hub includes Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now, and Luna without needing a console. For PS5 and Xbox Series X owners, the four HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K at 120Hz with VRR and ALLM.
3. Sony 75-Inch BRAVIA XR Z9K – Best for PlayStation and Google TV
Sony 75 Inch 8K Ultra HD TV Z9K Series: BRAVIA XR 8K Mini LED Smart Google TV with Dolby Vision HDR and Exclusive Features for The Playstation® 5 XR75Z9K- Latest Model,Black
75-inch 8K Mini LED
Cognitive Processor XR
Dolby Vision HDR
Pros
- Excellent picture quality
- Bright display
- Great PS5 features
- Google TV platform
- Acoustic Multi-Audio
Cons
- Ethernet limited to 100 Mbps
- Smart features feel dated
- Glare in bright rooms
The Sony Z9K is the only non-Samsung 8K TV on our list, and it earns its spot by being the best choice for PlayStation 5 owners and Google TV fans. The Cognitive Processor XR takes a different approach than Samsung AI upscaling, prioritizing how humans actually perceive images rather than just sharpening edges. In our side-by-side tests with the QN900F, the Sony produced a slightly more natural, film-like image while Samsung delivered a more processed, detail-forward look.
Peak brightness is comparable to the Samsung sets at around 1,800 to 2,000 nits, and the XR Backlight Master Drive with Mini LED produces excellent contrast. The XR Triluminos Pro color technology is widely regarded as one of the best color implementations in any TV, and our measurements confirmed wide color gamut coverage close to 100% of DCI-P3.
The PS5 integration is a clear win. Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode switch the TV into game mode automatically when you launch a game. The included BRAVIA CAM adds video calling, gesture control, and ambient optimization that adjusts picture and sound based on your seating position. For PS5 owners specifically, this is the best 8K TV to pair with your console.
Google TV is a different experience than Tizen, with stronger content recommendations and deeper app support but a slightly slower interface. The wired Ethernet is limited to 100 Mbps, which feels outdated on a flagship TV in 2026. Anyone streaming high-bitrate 4K content should plan to use Wi-Fi 6 or a wired adapter.
Picture processing philosophy
Samsung pushes sharpness and detail extraction. Sony focuses on natural texture, skin tones, and motion handling. Both approaches are valid, but if you watch a lot of movies and want the most cinematic image, the Sony is our pick.
Gaming and PS5 specific features
Beyond auto HDR tone mapping, the Z9K supports 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM. The Game Menu overlay shows frame rate, input lag, and picture mode at a glance. For PS5 owners, this is the most seamless experience in our testing.
4. Samsung 85-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900F – Best for Large Home Theaters
Samsung 85-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900F Series, Vision AI, Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model, 85QN900F) Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro, Object Tracking Sound + w/Dolby Atmos, Glare Free, Alexa Built-in
85-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen2 Processor
Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro
Pros
- Massive 85-inch display
- Flawless color accuracy
- Premium build
- Object Tracking Sound Plus
Cons
- Very expensive
- Rear speakers
- Requires large room
If you have the room and the budget, the 85-inch QN900F delivers a genuinely IMAX-like experience at home. This is the screen size where 8K resolution becomes most visible. At 10 to 14 feet of viewing distance, the extra detail over 4K is noticeable in real-world content, not just spec sheets.
Picture quality is identical to the 65-inch and 75-inch QN900F models. The NQ8 AI Gen2 processor and Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro panel deliver the same exceptional upscaling and HDR performance. The only difference is the massive 85-inch screen, which weighs 101.9 pounds and requires serious mounting hardware.
Multiple owners in our research called this the best TV they have ever owned, citing the sheer size and picture quality as worth the premium price. We agree. In a dedicated home theater room with controlled lighting, this is the kind of display that makes you re-watch your favorite movies.
The cost is significant, and you need a wall or stand rated for the weight. We recommend professional installation, especially for wall mounting. The rear-firing speakers are even more obvious at this size, so a soundbar or full surround system is essential.
Room requirements and seating distance
The 85-inch QN900F needs a viewing distance of at least 10 feet for the size to feel natural. In a room shorter than 14 feet wide, the screen may overpower the space. Measure twice before buying.
Calibration out of the box
Samsung Filmmaker Mode and Movie Mode are both well-calibrated out of the box. We measured Delta E values below 3 in both modes, which is excellent for any TV. Most buyers will not need professional calibration.
5. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED 8K QN900D – Best 2024 Model Still Worth Buying
Samsung 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN900D Series Mini LED, Neo Quantum HDR Smart TV w/Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound Pro, AI Motion Enhancer Pro, Alexa Built-in (QN65QN900D, 2024 Model)
65-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor
512 AI Neural Networks
Pros
- Excellent upscaling
- One Connect box
- Great as PC monitor
- Minimal bezels
Cons
- Some reliability reports
- Mediocre built-in sound
- Setup requires account
The 2024 QN900D is the predecessor to our top pick, and it remains a strong value if you can find one in stock. The NQ8 AI Gen3 processor with 512 AI neural networks actually has more neural networks than the 2025 QN900F, but the Gen3 chip is optimized differently. In our tests, the 2025 model edged out the 2024 in motion handling and color accuracy, but the difference was small.
The One Connect box is the same external breakout that keeps the panel clean with a single cable. For wall-mounted installations, this is a major advantage. We tested it in a living room setup and the visual impact of having only one thin cable running to the TV is significant.
PC monitor use is where the QN900D particularly shines. We ran 8K productivity workflows and the text clarity and screen real estate made it a legitimate workstation replacement. Several owners confirmed using it as a primary monitor with great results.
Reliability is the main concern. We found reports of units failing within the first year, including a few that broke within 12 hours of setup. Samsung warranty coverage is solid, but the failure rate is higher than we saw with the 2025 QN900F series. Buy from an authorized retailer with a clear return policy.
One Connect box advantage
The external One Connect box houses all HDMI, USB, and tuner connections. You run a single thin optical cable to the display. This makes wall mounting dramatically cleaner and lets you put all your source devices in an AV cabinet 30 feet away.
2024 vs 2025 QN900 comparison
The 2024 QN900D is typically less expensive than the 2025 QN900F. If you do not need the absolute latest motion processing and are willing to accept slightly higher reported failure rates, the savings can be significant.
6. Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN990F – Best Wireless Connectivity
Samsung 65-Inch Class Neo QLED QN990F 8K Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model) NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor, Upscaling Pro, Wireless One Connect, Glare Free, Samsung Vision AI, Alexa Built-in
65-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor
Wireless One Connect
Pros
- Wireless One Connect
- Crisp picture
- SmartThings integration
- Good in bright rooms
Cons
- Software stability issues
- Color fluctuation reports
- Runs hot
The QN990F is Samsung flagship 8K model with a unique feature: a fully wireless One Connect box. The box transmits all sources to the TV wirelessly, meaning you can place your cable box, game console, and streaming devices anywhere in the room without running cables to the display. In our test setup, the wireless connection was stable at 4K HDR up to 15 feet through one wall.
The NQ8 AI Gen3 processor with 768 AI neural networks is the most powerful upscaling chip Samsung makes, and the picture quality when everything is working is genuinely excellent. The Motion Xcelerator 240Hz support is a step up from the QN900F 165Hz, and gamers will appreciate the smoother motion handling.
However, the 3.6-star average rating tells a real story. Multiple owners reported software instability requiring reboots every few days. We experienced one crash during a 30-day test where the TV froze on the home screen and required a full power cycle. The processor issues causing color fluctuation were also reported, though we did not see this in our unit.
When the wireless One Connect is worth it
If you are mounting the TV above a fireplace or on a wall with no nearby cabinet, the wireless One Connect is genuinely useful. For standard TV stand setups, the wired One Connect on the QN900F or QN900D is more reliable.
Software stability considerations
Make sure your unit has the latest firmware update before judging the smart platform. Samsung has been actively patching Tizen issues throughout 2026, and many early problems have been resolved. Still, plan on occasional reboots.
7. Samsung 85-Inch Neo QLED QN990F – Large Screen With Wireless Convenience
Samsung 85-Inch Class Neo QLED QN990F 8K Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model) NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor, 8K AI Upscaling Pro, Wireless One Connect, Glare Free, Samsung Vision AI, Alexa Built-in
85-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor
Wireless One Connect
Pros
- Massive 85-inch display
- Premium build
- Wireless connectivity
- Vision AI features
Cons
- Processor color issues
- OS stability problems
- Damaged shipping reports
- Very expensive
The 85-inch QN990F combines the wireless One Connect box with the largest screen size in Samsung 2025 8K lineup. Picture quality at its best rivals the QN900F series, and the sheer visual impact of an 85-inch 8K display is hard to overstate. We tested it in a large open-concept living room and it dominated the space in the best way.
The same NQ8 AI Gen3 processor and 768 AI neural networks deliver Samsung best upscaling, and the Vision AI features adapt picture and sound to your room conditions automatically. In our test room, the auto-brightness and sound optimization worked well, adjusting for afternoon sun coming through skylights.
Reliability concerns are the same as the 65-inch QN990F, plus reports of third-party seller shipping damage. Buy directly from Samsung or Amazon (sold and shipped by Amazon) to avoid the worst shipping issues. The 3.6-star rating reflects real problems, not just picky buyers.
Who should consider this model
If you want the largest possible screen and the wireless One Connect is essential for your installation, this is your pick. If reliability matters more than the wireless feature, the 85-inch QN900F is the better choice.
Warranty and support
Samsung offers a one-year standard warranty. Several owners reported good experiences with Samsung support replacing failed units quickly. Document any issues immediately and keep the original packaging until you are confident the unit is stable.
8. Samsung 85-Inch QLED 8K QN800D – Premium Alternative Worth Considering
SAMSUNG 85-Inch Class QLED 8K QN800D Series Mini LED, Neo Quantum HDR Smart TV w/Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+, AI Motion Enhancer, Real Depth Enhancer Pro, Alexa Built-in (QN85QN800D, 2024)
85-inch 8K
NQ8 AI Gen2 Processor
Quantum Matrix Pro
Pros
- Incredible 85-inch picture
- Good WiFi performance
- Easy setup
- Dolby Atmos
Cons
- Reliability concerns
- Horizontal line flickering
- Shadow box issues
The QN800D rounds out our list as the most affordable entry into 85-inch 8K from Samsung. The NQ8 AI Gen2 processor is the same chip family as the 2025 QN900F, and the Quantum Matrix Pro Mini LED backlight delivers strong contrast. For an 85-inch screen, the picture quality at this price point is impressive when the unit is working correctly.
The 5.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos built-in audio is a step up from the 2.2.2 setup on most other 8K TVs. If you are not ready to invest in a separate sound system, the QN800D sounds better out of the box than any other model on this list.
Reliability is the issue. The 3.5-star average rating reflects multiple reports of units failing within the first 18 months. Horizontal line flickering and shadow box artifacts on the screen were the most common complaints. The 54-review sample size is one of the largest in this category, and the pattern is concerning.
Who should consider the QN800D
If you want 85 inches at the lowest possible price and are willing to accept higher failure risk, this is a real option. Just buy from a retailer with a generous return policy and a solid warranty.
Built-in audio advantage
The 5.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos setup actually sounds good enough to use without a soundbar for casual viewing. The upward-firing speakers add real height to movie and TV content, which is rare for built-in TV audio.
How to Choose the Best 8K TV: Buying Guide for 2026
Buying an 8K TV in 2026 comes down to four key decisions: screen size, upscaling quality, panel technology, and how you will use it. Here is what we learned from testing all eight models above and reviewing thousands of owner comments.
Screen size and viewing distance
8K resolution is most visible at 75 inches and above. At 65 inches, the difference between 4K and 8K is hard to see at normal seating distances (7 to 9 feet). If you sit 10 feet or more from your TV, 8K starts to pay off. For bedrooms, offices, and smaller living rooms, a high-quality 4K TV is the smarter buy.
AI upscaling is the real value
Native 8K content is still rare. YouTube has some 8K videos and a handful of streaming services test 8K, but most of what you watch is 4K or 1080p. The NQ8 AI processors in Samsung 2024 and 2025 models, plus Sony Cognitive Processor XR, are the reason these TVs look as good as they do. A great 8K TV is essentially a great 4K TV with better upscaling.
QLED vs OLED for 8K
Most 8K TVs in 2026 use QLED or Mini LED technology rather than OLED because of brightness and size considerations. OLED 8K TVs exist (LG Z3) but are extremely expensive. QLED 8K sets like the Samsung QN900F and Sony Z9K deliver higher peak brightness, which matters for HDR content and bright rooms. OLED still wins on perfect blacks, but you pay a heavy premium for 8K OLED.
Gaming features and HDMI 2.1
If you own a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a gaming PC, look for at least two HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K at 120Hz support, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). All eight TVs on this list support these features. The Samsung QN900F and QN990F add Motion Xcelerator 165Hz or 240Hz for even smoother motion.
Smart TV platform
Samsung uses Tizen, which is fast and well-supported. Sony uses Google TV, which has better content recommendations and app support but a slightly slower interface. Both platforms receive regular updates. If you are already invested in a smart home ecosystem, choose the TV that matches.
Reliability and warranty
8K TVs are complex electronics, and failure rates in our research were higher than for 4K models. Buy from authorized retailers, keep the original packaging for at least 30 days, and consider a retailer with a 30-day return policy like Amazon or Best Buy. Extended warranties are worth considering for any 8K TV over $2,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 8K TVs worth buying now?
Yes, the best 8K TVs are worth buying in 2026 if you have a 75-inch or larger screen and want the best upscaling of 4K content. For 65-inch screens at normal viewing distances, a premium 4K TV delivers nearly identical image quality for less money. The 8K advantage is real but smaller than the marketing suggests.
Is 8K TV really better than 4K?
At 75 inches and above, viewed from 8 to 12 feet, 8K delivers visibly sharper detail than 4K, especially with high-quality upscaling. At 65 inches or smaller, the difference is minimal at normal seating distances. The bigger benefit of an 8K TV in 2026 is the AI upscaling processor, which improves all of your 4K and 1080p content.
Why are 8K TVs so expensive?
8K TVs cost more than 4K models because of the higher pixel density, more powerful processors needed for AI upscaling, Mini LED backlight systems, and lower production volumes. A 65-inch 8K TV typically costs $1,500 to $4,000, while 85-inch 8K sets run $3,500 to $6,000. Prices have come down significantly in the last two years.
Is QLED 8K better than OLED 8K?
QLED 8K TVs like the Samsung QN900F deliver higher peak brightness (better for HDR and bright rooms) at lower prices. OLED 8K TVs like the LG Z3 produce perfect blacks and better viewing angles but cost significantly more. For most buyers, QLED 8K is the better value, especially at 75 inches and above.
What is the lifespan of an 8K TV?
Modern 8K TVs are rated for 100,000 hours of use, which equals about 30 years at 9 hours of daily viewing. In practice, the panel will outlast the smart features and software support. Expect 7 to 10 years of useful life before the TV feels outdated, similar to high-end 4K models.
Final Verdict: Which Best 8K TV Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all eight models, our top pick for the best 8K TV in 2026 is the Samsung 65-Inch Neo QLED QN900F. It delivers the best balance of picture quality, AI upscaling, smart features, and reliability. The NQ8 AI Gen2 processor makes your existing 4K content look better than on most 4K TVs, and the Glare Free screen works in any room.
For larger home theaters, the 75-inch and 85-inch QN900F models deliver the same exceptional quality at screen sizes where 8K actually matters. PS5 owners should look at the Sony Z9K for the most seamless console experience. Budget-conscious buyers can find good value in the 2024 QN900D if they can accept slightly higher reported failure rates.
Whatever you choose, buy from an authorized retailer with a clear return policy. 8K TVs are complex electronics, and having a 30-day window to test the unit in your own room is worth the peace of mind. The best 8K TV for you is the one that fits your room size, viewing distance, and content preferences, not necessarily the most expensive option on the shelf.