Which TV has the lowest input lag?
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When it comes to finding a TV with the lowest input lag, especially for gaming, there are several models that stand out due to their ability to provide ultra-low latency for a smooth and responsive experience. Input lag refers to the delay between a command (like pressing a button on a controller) and the corresponding action on the screen. For competitive gaming, low input lag is crucial, particularly for fast-paced games.
Best TVs with Low Input Lag for Gaming
Here are some of the best TVs known for their low input lag, as well as where to buy them, their prices, and product reviews:
1. LG OLED C1/C2 Series (OLED)
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Input Lag: 1-2ms (at 4K 120Hz)
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Why It's Great for Gaming: The LG OLED C1 and C2 are consistently praised for their exceptionally low input lag and fantastic picture quality. These TVs are perfect for next-gen gaming on consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X due to their 4K support at 120Hz, NVIDIA G-Sync, and AMD FreeSync compatibility, making it a smooth experience even for high-speed, competitive gaming.
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Key Features:
- OLED technology for perfect blacks and infinite contrast
- HDMI 2.1 ports with support for 4K at 120Hz
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smooth gaming
- Game Optimizer mode for optimal settings during gaming
- WebOS for smart TV functionality
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Where to Buy:
- Amazon: LG OLED C1 55-inch - Approx. $1,300
- Best Buy: LG OLED C2 55-inch - Approx. $1,300
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Product Reviews:
- Amazon Reviews: LG C1 OLED TV Reviews
- TechRadar Review: LG C1 OLED Review
Both models are lauded for exceptional gaming performance due to their near-zero input lag, making them some of the best choices for gamers looking for both image quality and responsiveness.
2. Samsung QN90A Neo QLED (LED)
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Input Lag: 5-10ms (at 4K 120Hz)
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Why It's Great for Gaming: The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED is one of the best LED TVs for gaming, offering extremely low input lag and a bright, vibrant image with excellent contrast. It has quantum dots for better color accuracy, and the Neo QLED technology gives it deeper blacks than traditional LED panels. It supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz, and its game mode further reduces input lag and enhances responsiveness.
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Key Features:
- Quantum Dot Technology for superior color accuracy
- Neo QLED with Mini-LED backlighting for deeper blacks
- FreeSync Premium Pro support
- Motion Xcelerator Turbo+ for smoother gaming
- Samsung Smart Hub for a full smart TV experience
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Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Samsung QN90A 55-inch - Approx. $1,200
- Best Buy: Samsung QN90A 55-inch - Approx. $1,200
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Product Reviews:
- Amazon Reviews: Samsung QN90A Reviews
- Tom's Guide Review: Samsung QN90A Review
The Samsung QN90A is praised for its bright display, great color accuracy, and low input lag, making it a strong contender for both casual and competitive gaming.
3. Sony X90J (LED)
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Input Lag: 6-10ms (at 4K 120Hz)
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Why It's Great for Gaming: The Sony X90J is an excellent mid-range TV with low input lag and fantastic picture quality for gaming. With HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K at 120Hz, it is designed to fully support the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The X90J also boasts full-array local dimming, which improves contrast and black levels, enhancing the visual experience during gaming.
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Key Features:
- Full-array LED with local dimming
- HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz gaming
- Sony’s Game Mode for reduced input lag
- XR Cognitive Processor for stunning visual clarity
- Google TV interface for smart features
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Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Sony X90J 55-inch - Approx. $1,100
- Best Buy: Sony X90J 55-inch - Approx. $1,100
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Product Reviews:
- Amazon Reviews: Sony X90J Reviews
- CNET Review: Sony X90J Review
The Sony X90J provides a good balance of value and performance, offering a solid gaming experience with low input lag and an overall bright and crisp picture.
4. Vizio P-Series Quantum X (LED)
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Input Lag: 4-10ms (at 4K 120Hz)
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Why It's Great for Gaming: The Vizio P-Series Quantum X is an affordable option with low input lag and high brightness. It features quantum dot technology for better color reproduction, and the 120Hz refresh rate with HDMI 2.1 support makes it an excellent choice for next-gen gaming. It also offers local dimming for deeper blacks and better contrast.
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Key Features:
- Quantum Dot Technology for vibrant colors
- 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 support
- Full-array local dimming for improved contrast
- Game mode to reduce input lag and enhance performance
- Smartcast for streaming apps
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Where to Buy:
- Amazon: Vizio P-Series Quantum X 55-inch - Approx. $1,100
- Best Buy: Vizio P-Series Quantum X 55-inch - Approx. $1,100
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Product Reviews:
- Amazon Reviews: Vizio P-Series Quantum X Reviews
- Rtings Review: Vizio P-Series Quantum X Review
This Vizio P-Series Quantum X offers excellent performance at a more affordable price compared to premium models while maintaining low input lag and excellent visual quality.
Conclusion
- Best for Gaming: If you're looking for the lowest input lag and best gaming performance, the LG OLED C1 or C2 stands out as the top choice due to its 1-2ms input lag, superb OLED picture quality, and support for 4K 120Hz.
- Best for Brightness: If you prefer a brighter display, the Samsung QN90A offers low input lag and brighter visuals thanks to its Mini-LED technology.
- Best Value: The Sony X90J and Vizio P-Series Quantum X offer great gaming performance with low input lag and great value for money.
For purchasing, you can check out the links to Amazon and Best Buy above for current prices and customer reviews. These models offer the latest features for next-gen gaming consoles and are highly recommended for those seeking fast response times.