Do bigger TVs have input lag?

When choosing a TV for gaming, many gamers wonder whether bigger TVs inherently have more input lag. The answer isn’t entirely straightforward, as input lag can depend on various factors, including the TV's technology, features, and settings. However, there are a few key considerations to understand regarding the relationship between TV size and input lag.

Factors Affecting Input Lag on Bigger TVs

1. Processing Power: Larger TVs often have more advanced image processing features, such as motion smoothing, image upscaling, and HDR enhancements. These features can increase the input lag because they require the TV to process the image before displaying it. As a result, some larger TVs, especially those with 4K resolution, might have more noticeable input lag compared to smaller models that prioritize speed over additional processing.

2. Game Mode: Many modern TVs, regardless of size, come with a Game Mode setting that disables some of the image processing features to reduce input lag. Enabling Game Mode significantly lowers input lag, even on larger TVs. However, if you forget to activate this mode, the TV may still process extra features that can introduce more lag.

3. Panel Technology: The type of panel used in the TV—LED, OLED, QLED, etc.—also plays a role in input lag. For example:

   • OLED TVs (like the LG OLED series) are known for their excellent response times and low input lag, even on larger screens.
   • QLED TVs (such as those by Samsung) tend to have slightly higher input lag compared to OLEDs but are still great for gaming, particularly when used in Game Mode.

4. Resolution: Higher-resolution displays, like 4K TVs, can sometimes introduce more input lag because they require more processing power to render the image, especially in high-quality settings. However, this can be mitigated with newer HDMI standards like HDMI 2.1, which allows the TV to handle higher resolutions (4K, 120Hz) without significant lag.

5. TV Size vs. Input Lag: Bigger TVs don't automatically have more input lag, but due to the larger number of pixels and the potential for additional processing, they might take a fraction longer to display the image. This difference is usually very small but can be noticeable in ultra-large screens, especially those beyond 65 inches. Screen size doesn’t directly correlate with input lag, but other factors like processing power and resolution play a role.

Does the Size of the TV Matter for Gaming?

For casual gaming, input lag on larger TVs may not be noticeable, especially if you're playing slower-paced games, RPGs, or story-driven titles. However, if you’re a competitive gamer who needs the fastest response time (such as in first-person shooters or fighting games), you might want to consider a gaming monitor or a smaller TV to ensure you get the best performance.

To minimize input lag on any size TV:

• Enable Game Mode to turn off unnecessary processing features.
• Use HDMI 2.1 cables for the best performance, especially on 4K TVs.
• Check the input lag ratings of the specific model before buying it.

Conclusion

Bigger TVs don’t inherently have more input lag, but certain factors such as additional processing, screen size, and the technology behind the TV can influence input lag. To get the best gaming performance, look for TVs with low input lag ratings (generally under 20ms) and ensure you're using the appropriate settings, such as Game Mode, to reduce lag. OLED and QLED TVs are great choices for gaming, even in larger sizes.

If you’re a competitive gamer, you might still prefer a gaming monitor for the lowest possible input lag, but for casual gaming, modern large TVs can offer excellent performance.