The best 40-inch TVs of 2024: Expert recommended

The Samsung QN90D is the brand's latest iteration of its flagship 4K model, and it's available in a 43-inch screen size. You'll still get the updated Neo QLED panel, which ZDNET's editor-in-chief, Jason Hiner, got to see in person and praised for its brighter picture as well as better contrast and color accuracy. You'll also get Dolby Atmos and Samsung's object-tracking sound for audio that follows the on-screen action of shows, movies, and games for a more immersive experience. 

If you're a console gamer or watch lots of sports, the QN90D supports a 144Hz refresh rate for smoother motion. Console gamers will also love the dedicated gaming dashboard, which gives them access to cloud gaming services like Xbox GamePass, real-time framerate monitoring, specialized picture settings, and automatic HDR adjustments. Verified customer reviews from both Amazon and Best Buy agree it's an excellent choice for console gaming, even as a backup monitor for PC gamers with the 144Hz refresh rate. They also highlight the brighter picture and enhanced picture quality over previous models. 

Samsung QN90D tech specs - Screen size: 43 inches | Panel type: Neo QLED | Refresh rate: Up to 144Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Neo Quantum HDR | Audio: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ | Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google 

Console gamers looking for a smaller screen should check out the Sony A90K. Not only is it one of the smallest Sony TVs, but it is also one of the most petite OLED models on the market. Along with signature OLED picture quality, you'll also get virtual surround sound with Sony's Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology. This technology turns the whole screen into a speaker for near-perfect video and audio syncing and audio that follows the on-screen action.

The A90K also features exclusive optimizations for use with the PlayStation 5, like improved input latency and proprietary VRR support to prevent delayed reactions, screen tearing, and stuttering. Non-PS5 gamers will be able to take advantage of the 120Hz refresh rate and Dolby Atmos support.

Sony A90K tech specs: Screen size: 42 inches | Panel type: OLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Acoustic Surface Audio+, Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google

The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED is the company's flagship TV, offering excellent picture quality and robust audio at a budget-friendly price. With Dolby Vision IQ support, you'll get enhanced details and more accurate colors as well as bolder contrast. The 60Hz refresh rate helps give you smoother motion during fast-paced sports broadcasts, movie and TV show scenes, and videogame sequences.

Read the review: The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED is great for gaming and streaming

The Fire TV platform not only gives you access to Amazon's entire library of movies, music, and shows, but you'll also get access to thousands of other apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Paramount+ so you can keep up with all of your favorite series. And with HDMI ARC passthrough support, you can set up a soundbar for enhanced audio and near-perfect video syncing.

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED tech specs: Screen size: 43 inches | Panel type: QLED | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision IQ | Audio: Dolby Digital Plus | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google

The LG C4 is one of the smallest OLED TVs you can buy at 42 inches, but it still gives you signature OLED picture quality and plenty of other features hidden in its tiny frame. It supports Dolby Atmos for virtual surround sound and a more immersive experience when watching shows and movies or even streaming music. With the 120Hz refresh rate, you'll get smoother motion for fast-paced scenes in movies, shows, sports, and console gaming.  

It supports Alexa and Hey Google virtual assistants, giving you hands-free voice controls over your TV for launching apps and searching for a new show to binge. The OLED panel gives you signature picture quality with deep contrast, bolder colors, and fine details further enhanced by Dolby Vision HDR support. Verified reviews from Amazon and LG highlight how easy it is to calibrate and fine-tune picture modes to get the best-looking images in your space. They also love how bright the picture can get, making it easier to watch in brighter environments. 

LG C4 tech specs - Screen size: 42 inches | Panel type: OLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google 

While 40-inch TVs are relatively inexpensive, the TCL S3 retails well under $200 while providing great features. It supports both Alexa and Apple HomeKit voice controls for hands-free operation of your TV and favorite apps. It also works with Dolby Atmos to provide virtual surround sound while watching movies and shows.

The biggest drawback of the TCL S3 is that it only provides 1080p HD resolution rather than 4K UHD. And while this means you'll miss out on finer details, it still makes an excellent option for a second screen in your bedroom, kitchen, or child's playroom.

TCL S3 tech specs: Screen size: 40 inches | Panel type: LED | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Resolution: 1080p HD | HDR: N/A | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Apple HomeKit