Game On: The Best TV for PC Gaming

Game On: The Best TV for PC Gaming

Serious gamers already know that the era of breezing through levels on a basic 19-inch monitor are long gone. These days, if you want a next-level home gaming setup, you’ve got to add a cutting-edge flat-panel TV to the rig. The goal is to create an immersive, entertaining experience that highlights every impressive graphic, sound and feature of the game. This guide will help you find the best TV for PC gaming, whether you’re into MMO, RPG or good, old-fashioned adventure games.

What Makes a Good TV for Gaming?

• It Should Be Fast—Even a split-second lag can mean the difference between advancing to the next level or not, and the last thing you’d want is for your new screen to hold you up. Look for a TV with low input latency, which will cut down on the delay between your computer or console and your screen. Note that many TVs have a setting designed specifically to minimize lag, often called “game mode.” You can also measure speed by looking at the Hz, refresh rate and FPS (frames per second).
• It Should Have Impressive Visuals—Modern video games are insanely realistic, and the last thing you’d want is for your screen to distort or compromise the view. If you’re all about the graphics, we recommend going with an OLED TV, which will produce truer colors and deeper blacks. These TVs are also known for having a faster response time and a better viewing angle, which makes them great for gaming. If you can afford it, definitely choose a TV with 4K capabilities so you can enjoy the high-def 4K games as they’re released.
• Smart, Gaming-Friendly Features—If you’re going to use the TV primarily for gaming applications, make sure it has an array of video inputs to suit your PC or console (including coaxial, HDMI, RCA, S-Video and others). As gamers, we all know that you can never have enough HDMI ports, so definitely look for units that have a few extras. Some options also have special technologies—such as Samsung’s Variable Refresh Rate—designed specifically for enhancing gaming visuals.

Our Picks for the Best Gaming TVs

1. LG C9 55-Inch 4K OLED TV—As one of our top-rated OLED TVs, the LG C9 consistently ranks as one of the best gaming TVs on the market thanks to its cutting-edge OLED visuals. It boasts a variety of gaming-specific features, including a “perfect black canvas” for crisp, true blacks plus a wide TV viewing angle and a cinematic surround sound that lets you totally immerse yourself in the game. 

1. LG B9 55-Inch 4K OLED—The LG B9 offers many of the same gamer-focused features as the higher-end C9 but comes at a more affordable price. The main difference between the two models is that the C9 has a faster, more advanced picture processor (the LG A9 Gen 2 Intelligent Processor), which results in better picture, clarity and contrast. However, the B9 is still a standout option for dedicated gamers, offering minimal stutter and quick speeds.

1. Samsung Q70R 55-Inch 4K TV—With multiple different gaming modes—Auto Game Mode, Game Motion Plus, Dynamic Black Equalizer, Game Enhancer—this Samsung TV was made for a range of gaming applications. The Dynamic Black EQ mode is a game-changer for PC applications because it provides better visibility in the dark and employs detailed scene analysis to optimize every single virtual environment.

1. Samsung RU7100 55-Inch 4K TV—Featuring its own suite of gaming features—including a dedicated game mode that enriches any PC gaming experience—this 4K Samsung TV is perfect for the gamer looking for top-notch performance on a budget (it rings up for under $500). It has FreeSync™ technology to reduce input lag with minimal tearing and stuttering and features Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) that helps better optimize your gaming sources. Despite its low price, it’s an amazing option for serious PC gamers. 

1. Sony XBR-55X950G 55-Inch 4K TV— Sony is also a contender in the gaming TV space, especially with this 4K HDTV that’s designed to bring video games to life with exceptional picture clarity and designated gaming picture modes. This TV is ideal for console gaming as well, as it is specifically designed to enhance the PlayStation experience with vivid textures, vibrant colors and a more fun and responsive gaming experience than ever.

Let Us Help You Find the Right Gaming TV

As experts on professional-grade at-home gaming setups, Abt is always available to help you select the right gaming TV for your specific needs. Be sure to explore our selection of high-quality TVs to find a model that suits your gaming style, budget and personal preferences.