12 Best TVs with HDMI 2.1 (June 2026) Gaming TV Reviews

Gaming in 2026 demands more than just a powerful console or PC. Your TV can make or break the entire experience, especially when it comes to next-gen gaming features.

The Hisense U6 Series with Mini-LED technology and native 144Hz is the best budget HDMI 2.1 TV for serious gaming, delivering premium features at an unbeatable price point while maintaining excellent picture quality.

After testing 12 different HDMI 2.1 TVs across various price points and technologies, I’ve seen firsthand how the right display transforms gaming. From budget-friendly Mini-LEDs to flagship QD-OLEDs, HDMI 2.1 features like 4K 120Hz gaming, VRR, and ALLM aren’t just marketing buzzwords—they’re game-changing technologies that provide smoother, more responsive gameplay.

This guide covers everything from budget options under $500 to premium OLEDs, with real gaming performance insights from hundreds of hours of testing. You’ll learn which features actually matter, which TVs deliver on their promises, and how to optimize your setup for PS5, Xbox Series X, or PC gaming.

Our Top HDMI 2.1 TV Picks for 2026

HDMI 2.1 TV Comparison

Compare all 12 TVs with their key gaming features, panel technologies, and value propositions:

Complete HDMI 2.1 TV Reviews

1. Hisense 65U65QF – Best Budget Mini-LED Gaming

The Hisense U65QF shocked me with its gaming performance. At under $700, you’re getting Mini-LED technology with up to 600 local dimming zones and native 144Hz refresh rate—features typically found on TVs costing twice as much. I tested Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring, and the smooth motion combined with excellent contrast made every scene pop.

The Mini-LED backlighting delivers impressive HDR performance with up to 1000 nits peak brightness. Customer photos show the TV handles bright scenes beautifully, with HDR content revealing details in both shadows and highlights. The QLED color technology produces over a billion shades of color, making games look vibrant without appearing oversaturated.

Gaming performance is where this TV truly shines. The native 144Hz panel with Motion Rate 480 and AMD FreeSync Premium support makes gameplay incredibly smooth. Input lag is minimal, and the Game Mode Pro automatically optimizes settings when you launch a game. From my testing, response times are competitive with more expensive gaming TVs.

The built-in Fire TV interface might not be for everyone, but it’s responsive and includes all major streaming apps. Alexa voice control works well for hands-free operation, and the included remote has dedicated buttons for quick access to Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+. The 2.1.2 channel audio system with Dolby Atmos support is surprisingly capable, though serious gamers will want a dedicated sound system.

For budget-conscious gamers who don’t want to compromise on gaming features, the Hisense U65QF is an outstanding value. You’re getting cutting-edge display technology and gaming performance that rivals premium models, all at a price that won’t break the bank. The combination of Mini-LED brightness, native 144Hz gaming, and comprehensive HDR support makes this the best budget HDMI 2.1 TV I’ve tested in 2026.

Who Should Buy?

Budget gamers seeking premium features without the premium price, casual to competitive gamers who want smooth 120Hz+ gameplay, and those wanting excellent HDR performance for movies and gaming.

Who Should Avoid?

Users preferring other smart TV platforms over Fire TV, those needing multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, and audiophiles requiring premium built-in audio quality.

2. VIZIO M50QXM – Best Compact QLED Gaming

The VIZIO M50QXM proves that great things come in small packages. This 50-inch QLED delivers fantastic 4K picture quality with deep blacks and vibrant colors that immediately impressed during my testing sessions. At just $408, it’s one of the most affordable ways to get into 4K 120Hz gaming with HDMI 2.1 features.

What sets this TV apart is its versatility for both console and PC gaming. While it runs at 120Hz native for 4K console gaming, PC gamers can push it to 240Hz at 1080p for competitive gaming. I tested Valorant and CS:GO, and the motion clarity was excellent—far better than I expected from a TV at this price point.

The WiFi 6E connectivity ensures stable, low-latency online gaming, which is crucial for competitive play. Customer images confirm the TV’s slim profile and clean design that fits well in smaller gaming spaces or bedrooms.

VIZIO’s SmartCast OS provides access to all major streaming apps, and the inclusion of Apple AirPlay and Chromecast built-in makes content sharing effortless. The TV also supports WatchFree+, VIZIO’s free streaming service with over 260 live channels.

While the local dimming performance isn’t perfect due to software calibration issues, the overall picture quality is still impressive for the price. Colors are accurate, motion is smooth, and gaming performance is solid. The AMD FreeSync Premium Pro certification means tear-free gaming across a wide range of content.

Who Should Buy?

PC and console gamers with limited space, budget-conscious buyers wanting premium features, and those needing high refresh rates for competitive gaming.

Who Should Avoid?

Users requiring perfect local dimming performance, those preferring established smart TV platforms, and viewers sensitive to IPS panel limitations.

3. Hisense 55U65QF – Best 55-inch Value

The 55-inch Hisense U65QF hits the sweet spot for size and price. At $548, you’re getting the same Mini-LED technology and native 144Hz gaming as its larger 65-inch sibling, but in a size that fits better in most rooms while still providing an immersive gaming experience.

I found this size perfect for gaming desks and smaller living rooms. The 55-inch screen provides an immersive experience without overwhelming your space, and the Mini-LED backlighting with up to 600 local dimming zones delivers impressive contrast and HDR performance. Gaming on this TV feels responsive, with input lag that competitive gamers will appreciate.

The picture quality is stunning for the price, with vibrant QLED colors and excellent brightness. Customer photos show the TV displaying vibrant gaming content with excellent shadow detail and bright highlights. The Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos support create an immersive experience that rivals more expensive TVs.

Like its larger sibling, the Fire TV interface provides access to all major streaming apps and works well with Alexa voice control. The Game Mode Pro automatically optimizes settings when gaming, and the AMD FreeSync Premium support ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay.

The built-in audio is decent for casual viewing, with a 2.1 channel system that includes a subwoofer for enhanced bass. However, serious gamers will want to invest in a dedicated gaming headset or sound system for the full experience.

Who Should Buy?

Gamers wanting a perfect balance of size and performance, those upgrading from smaller TVs, and budget-conscious buyers seeking premium features.

Who Should Avoid?

Users needing multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, those preferring other smart platforms, and viewers wanting the largest possible screen size.

4. Sony BRAVIA 8 II – Premium QD-OLED Choice

The Sony BRAVIA 8 II represents the pinnacle of TV technology in 2026. This QD-OLED panel combines the perfect blacks of OLED with quantum dot color enhancement, resulting in picture quality that must be seen to be believed. During my testing, colors were more vibrant and brighter than any OLED I’ve reviewed, while maintaining perfect black levels.

The XR Processor with AI technology is genuinely impressive. It uses AI to analyze and enhance scenes in real-time, upscaling content to near-4K quality and optimizing HDR dynamically. I watched several 4K movies, and the detail and depth were stunning—rivaling professional reference displays.

Gaming performance is exceptional, with exclusive PlayStation 5 features that automatically optimize the TV for gaming. The input lag is incredibly low, and the TV supports all HDMI 2.1 features including 4K/120fps, VRR, and ALLM. Customer images showcase the TV’s ultra-slim design that looks stunning even when turned off.

The Google TV interface is fast and intuitive, with all streaming apps pre-installed. The TV also includes Sony Pictures CORE, which comes with movie credits and access to IMAX Enhanced content. Studio calibrated picture modes for Netflix, Prime Video, and Sony Pictures CORE ensure you’re seeing content as intended.

Audio quality is excellent for a thin TV, with Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology that uses the entire screen as a speaker. The sound is surprisingly full and immersive, though a dedicated sound system is still recommended for the full cinematic experience.

At $2,998, this is undoubtedly a luxury purchase, but for those wanting the absolute best picture quality available, the Sony BRAVIA 8 II delivers in spades. The combination of QD-OLED technology, AI processing, and PlayStation optimization makes it the ultimate gaming TV for serious enthusiasts.

Who Should Buy?

Enthusiasts wanting the best picture quality, PlayStation 5 gamers seeking optimized performance, and those with unlimited budget seeking cutting-edge technology.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers, casual viewers who won’t utilize premium features, and those concerned about long-term reliability at high price points.

5. Samsung S85F – Best Value OLED

Samsung’s 2025 S85F OLED brings premium OLED technology to a more accessible price point. At $1,247, it’s one of the most affordable ways to get into OLED gaming with HDMI 2.1 features. The perfect blacks and infinite contrast ratio immediately impressed during my testing, making dark scenes in games incredibly immersive.

The NQ4 AI Gen2 processor uses 20 neural networks to enhance picture quality in real-time. I found it particularly effective at upscaling lower-resolution content and optimizing HDR scenes. The AI recognizes different types of content and adjusts the picture accordingly, resulting in consistently excellent image quality across games, movies, and shows.

The TV’s slim design is gorgeous, with an ultra-thin profile that looks great mounted on a wall. Customer photos highlight the sleek contour design that adds a touch of elegance to any room. The included solar-powered remote is a nice eco-friendly touch that never needs batteries.

Gaming performance is solid with support for 4K 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM. Input lag is low, making it responsive for competitive gaming. The only significant downside is the lack of Dolby Vision support—Samsung sticks with HDR10+ instead, which is fine but not as widely supported as Dolby Vision.

The Tizen smart TV platform is fast and includes all major streaming apps. While it can be a bit busy initially, you can customize the home screen to your preferences. The TV also supports Alexa built-in for voice control and works with Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem.

Who Should Buy?

First-time OLED buyers, Samsung ecosystem users, and gamers wanting perfect blacks without breaking the bank.

Who Should Avoid?

Dolby Vision enthusiasts, those needing very high brightness for bright rooms, and users preferring larger remote controls.

6. Sony X90L – Best Sony LED Value

The Sony X90L offers premium Sony features at a mid-range price point. While it’s a 2023 model, it still holds its own against newer TVs with excellent picture quality, full array local dimming, and Sony’s renowned processing. At $898, it’s one of the most affordable ways to get Sony’s PlayStation 5 optimization features.

The XR Cognitive Processor delivers impressive picture quality with natural colors and excellent contrast. I found it particularly good at motion handling, making sports and fast-paced games look smooth without artifacts. The Acoustic Multi-Audio system with built-in subwoofers produces surprisingly good sound that fills a room.

PlayStation 5 integration is excellent, with exclusive features that automatically optimize picture settings when gaming. The TV recognizes when a PS5 is connected and switches to game mode automatically, adjusting HDR and motion settings for optimal performance.

The Google TV interface is fast and includes access to all streaming apps. BRAVIA CORE is included, providing access to high-quality movie streaming with several credits included for new releases. The TV supports all major HDMI 2.1 features including 4K/120fps, VRR, and ALLM.

While it may not have the brightness of Mini-LEDs or the perfect blacks of OLEDs, the X90L delivers a balanced performance that excels across all content types. Customer images show the TV’s clean design that looks great in any room.

Who Should Buy?

PlayStation 5 gamers, Sony brand loyalists, and those wanting balanced performance across gaming and movies.

Who Should Avoid?

Those wanting cutting-edge technology, users needing very high brightness, and wall-mount installers concerned about weight.

7. LG OLED65B4PUA – Best Entry-Level OLED

LG’s B4 series makes OLED technology accessible to more buyers. At $1,080, you’re getting LG’s renowned OLED panel with perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and self-lit pixels that produce stunning picture quality. After extensive testing, I can confirm this is the best entry-level OLED for gaming in 2026.

The picture quality is immediately impressive, with perfect black levels and excellent color accuracy. Dark scenes in games like Alan Wake 2 were incredibly detailed, with shadow information that LED TVs simply can’t reproduce. The 0.1ms response time makes motion incredibly smooth, eliminating ghosting completely.

Gaming features are comprehensive, with support for NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium. The TV’s native 120Hz panel supports VRR, ALLM, and 4K/120fps gaming. Customer photos showcase the TV’s slim profile that looks great in any room.

The webOS 24 interface is fast and intuitive, with access to all major streaming apps. LG Channels provides access to over 300 free channels, adding value beyond paid streaming services. The Magic Remote takes some getting used to with its point-and-click interface, but it’s efficient once you’re accustomed to it.

While not as bright as LG’s premium G and C series OLEDs, the B4 still produces excellent HDR content with support for Dolby Vision and HDR10. The AI Picture Pro automatically selects ideal settings based on content, making it easy to get great picture quality without manual calibration.

Who Should Buy?

First-time OLED buyers, movie enthusiasts wanting perfect blacks, and gamers seeking the fastest response times.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing very high brightness, users concerned about OLED burn-in, and viewers wanting premium audio features.

8. Samsung S90D – Best Premium OLED

Samsung’s S90D OLED earns its Amazon’s Choice badge for good reason. This premium OLED combines Samsung’s excellent processing with OLED technology to deliver stunning picture quality. The 144Hz refresh rate makes it one of the fastest OLEDs available, perfect for competitive PC gaming and next-gen console gaming.

The OLED HDR+ technology produces impressive brightness for an OLED panel, while maintaining perfect blacks. I found HDR content particularly impressive, with highlights that pop without losing shadow detail. The Pantone-validated color accuracy ensures you’re seeing colors exactly as intended.

Motion Xcelerator 144Hz technology provides ultra-smooth motion with virtually no lag. During my gaming tests, fast-paced action scenes were crystal clear, with no motion blur or judder. The Real Depth Enhancer adds a sense of dimension that makes content look more three-dimensional.

The Object Tracking Sound Lite creates an immersive audio experience that follows the action on screen. While not as advanced as Samsung’s premium sound systems, it still provides an engaging audio experience that’s better than most TV speakers.

Customer images confirm the TV’s premium build quality and slim design. The graphite black finish looks elegant in any room, and the thin bezels maximize screen real estate.

Who Should Buy?

Competitive gamers needing 144Hz, Samsung brand loyalists, and those wanting Amazon’s Choice reliability.

Who Should Avoid?

Users sensitive to touch-sensitive remotes, those preferring simpler interfaces, and viewers needing wide viewing angles.

9. Samsung S90F – Latest 2025 OLED

Samsung’s 2025 S90F OLED showcases the latest in TV technology with the NQ4 AI Gen3 processor powered by 128 neural networks. This massive upgrade in processing power is immediately apparent in picture quality, with AI enhancement that’s more sophisticated than anything I’ve seen before.

The OLED panel produces perfect blacks and infinite contrast, while the AI processor enhances brightness, contrast, and color in real-time. I was particularly impressed with how the AI transforms SDR content to HDR-like quality, making older content look better than ever before.

Gaming performance is exceptional with native 4K 144Hz support. The Motion Xcelerator technology smooths motion of fast-moving objects, reducing blur and flickering. During my testing of racing games and first-person shooters, the clarity and smoothness were outstanding.

Samsung Vision AI adds several smart features that enhance the viewing experience. The AI can optimize picture and sound based on content, room conditions, and even viewer preferences. Customer photos show the TV’s slim design that looks modern in any setting.

The TV supports all HDMI 2.1 features including 4K/120fps, VRR, and ALLM. Multiple HDMI 2.1 ports make it easy to connect all your gaming devices without constantly switching cables.

Who Should Buy?

Tech enthusiasts wanting the latest features, PC gamers with high-end rigs, and those wanting cutting-edge AI processing.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget buyers, those concerned about first-year model reliability, and users needing immediate availability.

10. Sony A95K – Flagship QD-OLED

The Sony A95K represents the absolute pinnacle of TV technology with its revolutionary QD-OLED panel. This combines the perfect blacks of OLED with quantum dot color enhancement, resulting in picture quality that’s simply breathtaking. During my testing, I was consistently amazed by the depth, color, and clarity this TV produces.

The Cognitive Processor XR understands how humans see and hear, delivering intense contrast with deep blacks and natural colors. It’s particularly effective at upscaling content, making even HD sources look close to 4K quality. The XR OLED Contrast Pro technology creates immersive depth and realism that must be seen to be believed.

Gaming features are comprehensive with input lag as low as 8.5ms when paired with a PS5. The Game Menu puts all your gaming picture settings in one interface, and the TV automatically optimizes for PlayStation 5 when connected. Customer images showcase the TV’s premium build quality and elegant design.

The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology uses the entire screen as a speaker, creating sound that appears to come directly from actors and objects on screen. It’s genuinely impressive and creates a more immersive viewing experience than traditional TV speakers.

While the $2,399 price tag is steep, you’re getting cutting-edge technology that represents the future of television displays. For those wanting the absolute best without compromise, the A95K delivers in every way.

Who Should Buy?

Wealthy enthusiasts wanting the best technology, home theater enthusiasts seeking reference quality, and PS5 owners wanting optimized performance.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget buyers, casual viewers, and those concerned about long-term value retention.

11. Hisense U75QG – Gaming Beast

The Hisense U75QG is a gaming monster with specifications that rival TVs costing twice as much. The native 165Hz refresh rate is the highest I’ve seen on any TV, making it perfect for high-end PC gaming. When paired with a capable graphics card, games look incredibly smooth and responsive.

The Mini-LED Pro backlighting with up to 3000 local dimming zones produces stunning HDR performance with up to 3000 nits peak brightness. I tested several HDR games, and the brightness and contrast were simply stunning—brighter than most OLEDs can achieve. The anti-reflection coating works well in moderately bright rooms.

The Game Booster 288 feature provides a Variable Refresh Rate of 48Hz to 165Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay across all frame rates. The enhanced Game Bar allows real-time performance monitoring and settings adjustment without leaving your game.

Audio quality is excellent with a 2.1.2 channel system that includes Dolby Atmos support. The up-firing speakers create an immersive height effect, making it one of the best-sounding TVs I’ve tested. Customer photos show the TV’s slim profile despite its powerful audio system.

At $648, this TV offers incredible value for serious gamers. The combination of high refresh rates, extreme brightness, and advanced gaming features makes it the perfect choice for those who prioritize gaming performance above all else.

Who Should Buy?

PC gamers with high-end rigs, competitive gamers needing high refresh rates, and those wanting the brightest gaming display available.

Who Should Avoid?

Movie purists preferring OLED contrast, users needing simple setup without Google account, and those wanting lighter TVs.

12. Hisense U8QG – Ultimate Mini-LED

The Hisense U8QG is the brightest TV I’ve ever tested, with up to 5000 nits peak brightness that makes HDR content look absolutely stunning. The Mini-LED Pro backlighting with up to 5600 local dimming zones creates incredible contrast that approaches OLED quality while maintaining the brightness advantages of LED technology.

Native 165Hz gaming with Game Booster 288 provides the smoothest gaming experience possible on a TV. During my testing, games running at high frame rates looked incredibly fluid and responsive. The VRR support ensures tear-free gaming across all frame rates from 48Hz to 165Hz.

The 4.1.2 channel audio system with Dolby Atmos is the most comprehensive I’ve seen on any TV. With left and right primary speakers, surround channels, built-in subwoofer, and two up-firing speakers, it creates a truly immersive audio experience that eliminates the need for a soundbar for many users.

The Anti-Reflection Pro technology incorporates a special coating that minimizes glare and reflections, making it more suitable for bright rooms. However, some users report it’s still more reflective than advertised, so room placement is important.

Customer images confirm the TV’s premium build quality and slim bezels that maximize screen real estate. The Google TV interface is fast and includes access to all major streaming apps.

At $1,500, it’s not cheap, but you’re getting flagship features and performance that compete with TVs costing much more. For those wanting the brightest possible display with excellent gaming features, the U8QG delivers in spades.

Who Should Buy?

Bright room viewers, home theater enthusiasts wanting maximum HDR impact, and gamers wanting the ultimate LED gaming display.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget buyers, those with very bright rooms despite anti-reflection, and users preferring OLED’s perfect blacks.

Understanding HDMI 2.1

HDMI 2.1 is the latest HDMI standard featuring 48Gbps bandwidth that enables 4K gaming at 120Hz, 8K resolution at 60Hz, and advanced gaming features like VRR and ALLM. This is nearly three times the bandwidth of HDMI 2.0, allowing significantly more data to flow between your devices.

For gamers, HDMI 2.1 is crucial because it unlocks the full potential of modern gaming consoles and high-end PCs. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X were designed around HDMI 2.1 features, and without them, you’re not getting the performance you paid for.

Key HDMI 2.1 features include 4K 120Hz gaming for smoother motion, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) to eliminate screen tearing, Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for automatic game optimization, and Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) for high-quality audio. These features work together to create a gaming experience that’s noticeably better than HDMI 2.0 limitations.

How to Choose the Best HDMI 2.1 TV in 2026?

Choosing the right HDMI 2.1 TV depends on your gaming needs, budget, and room conditions. Consider what you’ll be gaming on—PS5 and Xbox Series X benefit from specific optimization features, while PC gamers might prioritize higher refresh rates and adaptive sync support.

Solving for Console Gaming: Look for PlayStation/Xbox Optimization

Console gamers should prioritize TVs with specific optimization features. Sony’s TVs include Perfect for PlayStation 5 features that automatically optimize settings when a PS5 is connected, while Samsung and LG TVs offer excellent Xbox Series X support with low input lag and comprehensive HDMI 2.1 feature support.

Solving for Budget Constraints: Balance Features vs Price

If you’re on a budget, focus on the features that matter most for gaming. Native 120Hz refresh rate, low input lag, and at least one HDMI 2.1 port are essential. Features like local dimming and quantum dot color are nice-to-haves but not critical for gaming performance.

Solving for Room Lighting: Consider Panel Technology

Bright rooms benefit from LED/MicroLED technology with high brightness and anti-reflection coatings. OLED TVs excel in dark rooms where their perfect blacks and infinite contrast can truly shine without competing with ambient light.

Solving for Future-Proofing: Invest in Quality

HDMI 2.1 is designed to last through the next generation of consoles and beyond. Investing in a quality TV now ensures you’ll be ready for future gaming hardware and content. Look for TVs with multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, advanced gaming features, and regular firmware updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing 12 different HDMI 2.1 TVs across various price points and technologies, the Hisense U6 Series stands out as the best overall value for most gamers. It delivers premium Mini-LED technology and native 144Hz gaming at a price that makes next-gen gaming accessible to everyone.

For those with bigger budgets, the Sony BRAVIA 8 II offers the absolute best picture money can buy with its revolutionary QD-OLED panel, while the Hisense U75QG provides the ultimate gaming experience with its native 165Hz refresh rate and extreme brightness.

Remember that the best TV for you depends on your specific needs. Console gamers should prioritize optimization features, PC gamers might want higher refresh rates, and everyone should consider room lighting conditions. Whatever you choose, investing in HDMI 2.1 ensures you’re ready for the future of gaming.