For bedrooms, dorms, or smaller living spaces, a 43-inch TV strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. While larger screens dominate the market, savvy buyers can save money without sacrificing key features like 4K resolution and smart streaming. Choosing a smaller size often means getting a lot of tech for less. Here’s a breakdown of the best 43-inch TVs available today.
Top Picks at a Glance
Samsung S90F (Best OLED): The Samsung S90F delivers exceptional image quality, especially for gamers. Its OLED technology produces true blacks and vibrant colors, making it the best value in the OLED category. However, it comes at a premium price and lacks Dolby Vision support.
Amazon Fire TV 4-Series (2024) (Best Budget): The Amazon Fire TV 4-Series provides a solid picture and surprisingly good sound for its price. If the newer 2025 model is cheaper, it’s the better option. It doesn’t include local dimming, and availability may be limited due to the newer version.
Samsung U8000F (Best for Gaming): The Samsung U8000F offers responsive gaming performance, even in Filmmaker Mode. Its input lag is among the best on the market, making it ideal for casual and competitive gamers alike. It lacks local dimming and has slightly desaturated reds.
Roku Select (2025) (Best for Roku Fans): The Roku Select combines decent picture quality with a user-friendly Roku interface. Its brightness and the convenient remote-finder feature make it easy to set up and use, though the picture quality isn’t exceptional.
Why 43-Inch TVs Matter
Many manufacturers focus on larger screen sizes, leaving the 43-inch market with fewer high-end options. This means finding a truly high-quality 43-inch TV can be more challenging than finding larger models. OLEDs are an exception, offering superior image quality but at a higher cost.
The primary advantage of a 43-inch TV is its affordability. It’s an excellent choice for spaces where a larger screen would overwhelm the room. It’s also a great way to get smart TV features and 4K resolution without breaking the bank.
Key Considerations When Choosing
- Price: Entry-level TVs can cost as little as $100, while premium OLED models exceed $2,000. The sweet spot for most buyers is between $300 and $800.
- Screen Size: While 43 inches is sufficient for small rooms, consider upgrading to 55 or 65 inches for larger spaces. Bigger is generally better.
- Features: Prioritize smart TV functionality (Roku, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV) over minor picture enhancements like 120Hz refresh rates or local dimming. OLED technology remains the best for image quality.
How CNET Tests TVs
CNET’s TV reviews are conducted with specialized equipment, including spectroradiometers and signal generators, and follow a rigorous, unbiased evaluation process. Testing involves measuring brightness, color accuracy, and video processing, as well as assessing design, features, and gaming compatibility. All TVs are compared side by side under various lighting conditions.
Final Thoughts
The 43-inch TV market offers solid options for budget-conscious buyers. While OLED provides the best picture quality, LED models like the Amazon Fire TV 4-Series and Samsung U8000F offer excellent value. Consider your room size, budget, and primary use case to make the most informed choice.
