Make Sure a Smart TV Has These Features If You Intend to Purchase One in 2025
If you’re planning to buy a smart TV in 2025, you’re stepping into an exciting world of cutting-edge technology, immersive entertainment, and seamless connectivity. Smart TVs have evolved far beyond simple screens for watching cable—they’re now central hubs for streaming, gaming, and even controlling your smart home. But with so many options flooding the market, how do you ensure your purchase is worth it and future-proof for years to come? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-have features to look for when buying a smart TV in 2025, based on the latest trends and innovations. Whether you’re a cinephile, a gamer, or just someone who loves a good binge-watch, these are the essentials you’ll want to check off your list.
By the way, I’m writing this on February 24, 2025, so you’re getting the freshest insights possible. Let’s dive in!
Why 2025 Is a Big Year for Smart TVs
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why 2025 is such a pivotal year for smart TVs. The past few years have seen massive leaps in display technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and connectivity standards. According to industry reports, the global smart TV market is expected to hit 266.4 million units by the end of 2025, growing at a steady clip thanks to innovations like 4K HDR and falling prices (Research and Markets). This year, brands like Samsung, LG, TCL, and Sony are pushing the envelope with brighter displays, smarter AI, and bigger screens at more affordable prices. So, if you’re upgrading, you’re in for a treat—but only if you know what to look for.
1. Advanced Display Technology: 4K, 8K, OLED, or Mini-LED
The heart of any TV is its display, and in 2025, you’ve got some incredible options. Here’s what to prioritize:
4K Is the Baseline, but 8K Is Emerging
By now, 4K resolution (3840x2160 pixels) is standard for smart TVs, delivering crisp, detailed visuals. Most content on streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+ is available in 4K, so it’s a safe bet. However, 8K (7680x4320 pixels) is starting to creep into the mainstream. While there’s still limited native 8K content, TVs with 8K panels often use AI upscaling to enhance lower-resolution content, making it look sharper than ever.
Should you go for 8K? If your budget allows, it’s a future-proof choice. But Consumer Reports advises against splurging on 8K unless you’re ready to pay a premium for tech that’s not fully utilized yet (Consumer Reports). For most folks, a high-quality 4K TV will do the trick in 2025.
OLED vs. QLED vs. Mini-LED
The type of display tech matters just as much as resolution. Here’s the breakdown:
- OLED: Organic Light-Emitting Diode screens offer perfect blacks and incredible contrast since each pixel lights up independently. LG’s C4 OLED and Samsung’s S95D are top picks for 2025 (CNET).
- QLED: Quantum Dot LED TVs, like Samsung’s QN90D, boost brightness and color vibrancy, making them ideal for bright rooms. They’re often more affordable than OLEDs.
- Mini-LED: A step up from traditional LED, Mini-LED uses thousands of tiny backlights for better contrast and brightness. TCL’s QM8 series is a standout here, offering premium performance at a mid-range price (Tom’s Guide).
In 2025, look for TVs with advanced versions of these technologies—like LG’s Primary RGB Tandem OLED or Samsung’s 5-layer QD-OLED panels (RTINGS). They promise even brighter, more colorful pictures.
AI Upscaling
No matter the resolution, AI upscaling is a game-changer. It uses machine learning to enhance older shows or low-res YouTube videos to near-4K or 8K quality. Brands like Samsung (Vision AI) and LG (α9 Gen 7 processor) are leading the charge. Make sure your TV has this feature—it’s a must for keeping all your content looking sharp.
2. High Refresh Rates and Gaming Features
If you’re a gamer—or even if you just love smooth motion in action movies—refresh rate is a big deal. Here’s what to look for:
120Hz or Higher
The refresh rate measures how many times per second the screen updates (measured in Hertz, or Hz). A 60Hz TV refreshes 60 times per second, which is fine for casual viewing. But in 2025, 120Hz is the minimum for a premium experience, especially for gaming or fast-paced sports. Top-tier models like the LG G5 OLED and Samsung S95F even hit 144Hz or 165Hz (Tom’s Guide).
Gaming Essentials
For PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or PC gamers, these features are non-negotiable:
- HDMI 2.1: Supports 4K at 120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). Check that your TV has at least two HDMI 2.1 ports.
- VRR: Syncs the TV’s refresh rate with your console’s frame rate to eliminate screen tearing. AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility are bonuses.
- Low Input Lag: Look for under 10 milliseconds for responsive gameplay.
The Sony BRAVIA 9 QLED and TCL QM7 are standout gaming TVs for 2025, blending high refresh rates with robust HDMI support (Digital Trends).
3. Immersive Audio: Dolby Atmos and Beyond
A great picture deserves great sound. In 2025, built-in audio is getting a major upgrade, so don’t settle for tinny speakers.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
These object-based audio formats create a 3D soundscape, making it feel like helicopters are flying overhead or rain is falling around you. Many 2025 TVs, like the Panasonic Z95B and Samsung QN85D, come with Dolby Atmos built-in (PCMag). DTS:X is less common but worth seeking out if you’re an audio purist.
AI-Driven Sound
Some TVs now use AI to tweak sound based on your room’s acoustics or the content you’re watching. LG’s AI Sound Pro and Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound (OTS) are prime examples, delivering dynamic audio without a soundbar (Business Insider).
That said, if you’re an audiophile, pairing your TV with one of the best soundbars of 2025 will take things to the next level.
4. Smart Features and Operating Systems
A smart TV isn’t smart without a slick interface and robust features. Here’s what to demand in 2025:
Top Operating Systems
The OS determines how easy it is to navigate apps and control your TV. The big players are:
- Roku OS: Simple and reliable, found on TCL and Hisense models. It’s a fan favorite for its straightforward layout (CNET).
- Google TV: Offers personalized recommendations and Google Assistant integration. Hisense U8N and TCL QM8 run this smoothly.
- webOS: LG’s platform is intuitive and supports Alexa and Google Assistant. The LG C4 shines here.
- Tizen: Samsung’s OS is fast and packed with apps, though some dislike its ad-heavy interface (S90D is a top pick).
- Fire TV: Amazon’s platform is great for Alexa users, as seen in the Panasonic Z95A.
Pick one that aligns with your smart home ecosystem—Google TV for Nest, Fire TV for Echo, etc.
Voice Assistants
Built-in voice control is standard in 2025. Look for support for Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung’s Bixby. Bonus points if it’s hands-free, like the Hisense U6N’s Google Assistant feature (PCMag).
App Support
Ensure your TV supports your go-to streaming apps—Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and niche services like Crunchyroll. Most major platforms are universal now, but double-check if you’re into obscure apps (MakeUseOf).
5. Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Matter, and Ports
In 2025, your TV needs to play nice with the internet and your other devices. Here’s what to prioritize:
Wi-Fi 6 or 6E
Streaming 4K—or even 8K—content demands a fast, stable connection. Wi-Fi 6 (and its 6E variant) offers higher speeds and lower latency than older standards, reducing buffering even with multiple devices online. LG’s AI TV range and Samsung’s QN90D are Wi-Fi 6 champs (RTINGS).
Smart Home Integration
Your TV should double as a smart home hub. Look for support for:
- Matter: A new standard ensuring compatibility across ecosystems (Apple, Google, Amazon).
- Zigbee/Z-Wave: For connecting to lights, thermostats, and more.
The Samsung Frame Pro and LG G5 lead here, with built-in hubs for seamless control (TechRadar).
Plenty of Ports
HDMI 2.1 is a must, but don’t skimp on quantity—aim for 3-4 ports for consoles, soundbars, and Blu-ray players. USB ports for external drives and an Ethernet option for wired connections are bonuses (Lifewire).
6. Size Matters: Bigger Is Better (Within Reason)
TVs are getting bigger, and in 2025, 55 inches is the new minimum for a main living room set. Here’s how to choose:
Screen Size Guidelines
- Bedroom: 43-55 inches.
- Living Room: 55-75 inches.
- Home Theater: 75 inches or larger (TCL’s 98-inch QM6K is a steal at under $3,500).
CNET suggests multiplying your viewing distance (in inches) by 0.6-1 to find the ideal size—so a 10-foot distance pairs with a 60-100-inch screen (CNET). Rarely do people regret going big!
Wall Space and Budget
Measure your space and budget. TCL and Hisense offer massive screens at lower prices, while Samsung’s The Wall Luxury hits 292 inches for the ultra-rich (Techecholabs).
7. HDR Performance: Dolby Vision or HDR10+
High Dynamic Range (HDR) makes colors pop and contrasts sharper. In 2025, don’t settle for less:
HDR Formats
- Dolby Vision: Dynamic HDR that adjusts scene-by-scene. Sony A95L and LG G4 support it (Digital Trends).
- HDR10+: Samsung’s rival format, found on the QN85D. It’s less common but still excellent.
- HLG: For live broadcasts—less critical but nice to have.
Avoid TVs with generic “HDR” labels—look for certified logos like DisplayHDR (MakeUseOf).
Brightness and Contrast
Check peak brightness (measured in nits). For HDR to shine, aim for 1,000 nits or more. Mini-LED and OLED TVs often hit this mark, like the TCL QM851G (Tom’s Guide).
8. Future-Proofing: Software Updates and Durability
A TV is a long-term investment, so ensure it stays relevant:
Regular Updates
Brands like LG (webOS) and Samsung (Tizen) promise years of software updates, keeping your TV’s features current. Roku TVs are also reliable for this (Business Insider).
Build Quality
Look for sturdy designs and good warranties. Outdoor models like the SunBriteTV Veranda 3 show how durability pays off (PCMag).
Bonus Tips for Buying a Smart TV in 2025
- Timing: Prices drop around Black Friday or pre-Super Bowl sales (Consumer Reports).
- Reviews: Check hands-on tests from RTINGS or TechRadar for real-world performance.
- Try Before You Buy: Use AR apps from Best Buy to see how a TV fits your space (Lifewire).
Top Smart TVs to Consider in 2025
Based on these features, here are some early standouts for 2025:
- LG G5 OLED: Brightest OLED yet with 165Hz gaming (Tom’s Guide).
- Samsung S95F QD-OLED: Matte finish, 4K/165Hz, and Tizen OS (TechRadar).
- TCL QM6K Mini-LED: Affordable big-screen option with Google TV (Business Insider).
- Sony BRAVIA 9 QLED: Dolby Vision and top-tier gaming (Digital Trends).
- Hisense U8N: Mini-LED brightness at a budget price (CNET).
Final Thoughts
Buying a smart TV in 2025 is all about balancing your needs with the latest tech. Focus on a stellar display (4K or 8K with OLED/Mini-LED), smooth performance (120Hz+ and gaming features), rich sound (Dolby Atmos), and smart connectivity (Wi-Fi 6, Matter). Don’t skimp on size or HDR, and ensure it’s built to last with updates. With these features in your checklist, you’ll land a TV that’s not just good for now but ready for the future.
So, what’s your next step? Hit the stores (or online shops), compare models, and snag the perfect smart TV for your 2025 entertainment setup. Happy watching!