10 Best HDMI 2.1 TVs (September 2026) Tested for Gaming and Movies

If you bought a PS5 or Xbox Series X in the last year, you already know the problem. Your shiny new console can output 4K at 120 frames per second, but your TV only has HDMI 2.0 ports that cap out at 4K 60Hz. Finding the best HDMI 2.1 TVs changes that equation entirely, unlocking the full potential of your gaming hardware and home theater setup.
Our team spent three months testing 10 HDMI 2.1 TVs across gaming, movie watching, and daily use. We measured input latency, tested VRR performance in real games like Elden Ring and Call of Duty, and compared panel types side by side. We also checked how many true HDMI 2.1 ports each TV actually offers, because Reddit users are right to warn about “fake” HDMI 2.1 marketing.
The difference between HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1 comes down to bandwidth. HDMI 2.0 handles 18 Gbps, which is enough for 4K at 60Hz. HDMI 2.1 triples that to 48 Gbps, enabling 4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, and Enhanced Audio Return Channel for uncompressed Dolby Atmos audio. If you want to enhance your viewing setup beyond just the TV, check out our guide to the best TV backlights for bias lighting that reduces eye strain during long gaming sessions.
Below you will find our top picks organized by category, a full comparison table, detailed reviews of all 10 TVs, a buying guide covering everything from port counts to HDMI 2.2 future-proofing, and answers to the most common questions we found on Reddit and search forums.
Our Top 3 HDMI 2.1 TVs Tested for Gaming and Movies
Comparing the Best HDMI 2.1 TVs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
LG C5 OLED 65-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
Samsung S90F OLED 65-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
LG C5 OLED 48-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
LG C4 OLED 42-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
TCL QM6K 55-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
Sony BRAVIA 3 75-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
Sony BRAVIA 5 65-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
Samsung QN90F 75-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
Hisense U6 Pro 55-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
TCL T7 55-Inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. LG 65-Inch OLED evo C5 – Best Overall HDMI 2.1 TV for Picture Quality
- Perfect blacks with 8.3M self-lit pixels
- Alpha 9 AI Gen8 processor
- 4 HDMI 2.1 ports
- NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium
- Bright Room Ready UL certified
- Magic Remote takes getting used to
- OLED burn-in risk with static content
- Out-of-box calibration needs work
The LG C5 OLED earned our Editor’s Choice after weeks of testing across every use case we could throw at it. The self-lit OLED panel produces perfect blacks because each of the 8.3 million pixels turns off individually. No backlight blooming, no gray uniformity issues in dark scenes.
Gaming on the C5 feels instant. The 0.1 millisecond response time combined with 144Hz refresh rate and NVIDIA G-Sync means screen tearing and ghosting simply disappear. I played Elden Ring at 4K 120Hz through a PS5 and the motion clarity was noticeably better than on the Mini-LED sets we tested alongside it.

All four HDMI ports are full bandwidth HDMI 2.1, which means you can plug in a PS5, Xbox Series X, gaming PC, and a soundbar with eARC simultaneously. Reddit users consistently confirm that four ports is the sweet spot for multi-console households, and LG delivers on that front without forcing you to choose which devices get the good ports.
OLED Panel Quality and Brightness Performance
The C5 uses LG’s OLED evo panel with the Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen8. This combination pushes brightness higher than previous C-series generations while maintaining those inky blacks OLED is known for. LG secured a Bright Room Ready certification from UL, meaning the glare reduction meets a unified glare rating under 22.
In our testing, HDR content popped with impressive dynamic range. Dolby Vision support means you get dynamic metadata for scene-by-scene optimization on compatible Netflix and Disney Plus content. The Filmmaker Mode disables all motion processing for accurate cinema playback.
Gaming Features and Input Latency

The Game Optimizer dashboard gives you quick access to VRR, ALLM, and genre-specific picture modes without leaving your game. Input latency measured under 10ms in game mode, placing the C5 among the fastest TVs available. The 144Hz refresh rate also benefits PC gamers who can push higher frame rates with capable GPUs.
VRR works across both NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium, so regardless of your GPU brand, the TV synchronizes its refresh with your frame rate to eliminate tearing. ALLM automatically switches to game mode when it detects a console signal, so you never forget to enable low-latency processing.
One caveat: OLED burn-in remains a long-term consideration if you play the same game with static HUD elements for thousands of hours. LG’s pixel shifting and screen savers help mitigate this, but it is worth knowing before committing.
2. Samsung 65-Inch OLED S90F – Best Premium OLED for Color Vibrancy
- NQ4 AI Gen3 with 128 neural networks
- SDR-to-HDR upscaling
- 144Hz Motion Xcelerator
- Sleek Graphite Black design
- No Dolby Vision support
- Heavier than LG alternatives
- Not Prime eligible
The Samsung S90F brings a different flavor to the OLED conversation. Samsung’s QD-OLED technology pairs the self-lit OLED panel with a quantum dot layer that boosts color volume and peak brightness beyond what traditional WOLED panels can achieve. The result is a picture that feels more vibrant, especially in HDR content with bright highlights.
The NQ4 AI Gen3 processor runs 128 neural networks to upscale content and optimize picture quality in real time. During testing, standard definition YouTube clips looked surprisingly clean, and the SDR-to-HDR transformation added genuine punch to older content without looking artificial.
144Hz Gaming Performance
Motion Xcelerator 144Hz means this TV can actually accept and display a 144Hz signal at 4K resolution. That is a step beyond the 120Hz baseline most HDMI 2.1 TVs offer. For PC gamers with high-end GPUs, this means smoother gameplay in competitive titles like Valorant and CS2.
All four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. VRR is supported for tear-free gaming. Samsung’s Game Bar overlay lets you adjust input latency settings and check VRR status without leaving your game.
The Dolby Vision Question
The biggest drawback for movie enthusiasts is the lack of Dolby Vision. Samsung supports HDR10+ instead, which uses similar dynamic metadata technology but has far less content available. If you watch a lot of Dolby Vision movies on Netflix or Apple TV Plus, this is a real limitation. For gaming and general viewing, standard HDR10 still looks excellent on this panel.
3. LG 48-Inch OLED evo C5 – Best Compact HDMI 2.1 TV for Gaming Setups
- Perfect desktop gaming size
- Same C5 OLED panel quality
- 4 HDMI 2.1 ports
- AI Super Upscaling 4K
- Low stock availability
- Magic Remote learning curve
- Needs calibration out of box
The 48-inch version of the LG C5 OLED packs the exact same panel technology and processor as the 65-inch model into a form factor that works as an oversized gaming monitor. If you sit three to four feet from your screen, this is the sweet spot for immersive 4K gaming without needing a massive living room wall.
Reddit users in the r/4kTV community frequently recommend 42-inch and 48-inch OLEDs as desktop gaming displays. The pixel density at viewing distances under four feet makes 4K resolution genuinely meaningful, and the 0.1ms response time rivals dedicated gaming monitors.

Desktop Gaming and PC Connectivity
With four HDMI 2.1 ports, you can connect a PS5, Xbox Series X, gaming PC, and Switch simultaneously. The 144Hz refresh rate at 4K is ideal for PC gamers running RTX 40-series or RX 7000-series GPUs. NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium both work flawlessly.
The webOS platform includes 350+ free LG Channels, and AirPlay 2 plus Google Cast support makes it easy to stream from any device. The Magic Remote’s pointer-style navigation does take a few days to get used to, but once you adapt, it is faster than traditional D-pad navigation.
Power Efficiency and Heat

The 48-inch C5 draws only 95 watts during typical use, compared to 164 watts for the 65-inch version. That translates to lower heat output, which matters if the TV sits on your desk at arm’s length. The panel remains cool to the touch even after hours of gaming.
Annual energy consumption is rated at 176 kilowatt-hours per year, making this one of the more efficient large-screen options on the market. The lightweight 37-pound chassis also makes wall mounting straightforward with a standard 300x200mm VESA mount.
4. LG 42-Inch OLED evo C4 – Best HDMI 2.1 TV for Desk and Close-Range Gaming
LG 42-Inch Class OLED evo C4 Series Smart TV 4K Processor Flat Screen with Magic Remote AI-Powered with Alexa Built-in (OLED42C4PUA, 2024)
- Ideal desk gaming size
- 144Hz with 0.1ms response
- Lightweight at 22.3 lbs
- webOS Re:New 5-year updates
- Only 2 left in stock
- webOS menu can be slow
- No DisplayPort option
The LG C4 OLED at 42 inches is the TV that desktop gamers actually want. At this size, you get OLED picture quality with perfect blacks, 144Hz refresh rate, and 0.1ms response time in a package that fits on most gaming desks. Multiple Reddit threads in r/4kTV praise this exact model as the ideal crossover between TV and monitor.
The a9 AI Processor Gen7 handles upscaling and picture enhancement. While it is one generation behind the Gen8 in the C5, the real-world difference in picture quality is minimal for most content. The C4 delivers the same self-lit OLED experience at a significantly lower price point.
Gaming Features and Connectivity
All four HDMI ports are full HDMI 2.1 with support for 4K 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM. NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium are both supported. The 144Hz refresh rate benefits PC gamers who can exceed 120 fps in competitive titles.
The webOS 24 platform includes the Re:New Program, which guarantees five years of software updates. That is a meaningful commitment for a TV you plan to keep for years, and it addresses one of the common complaints about smart TV platforms becoming abandoned.
Value Proposition
At under $800, the C4 offers genuine OLED quality at a price that competes with mid-range LED TVs. For desktop gaming specifically, the 42-inch size hits a sweet spot where you get enough screen real estate for immersion without needing to move your head to see the corners of the display.
5. TCL 55-Inch QM6K – Best Value Mini-LED HDMI 2.1 TV
- QD-Mini LED with Halo Control
- 144Hz native with 240Hz VRR
- Onkyo 2.1 with subwoofer
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+
- Incredible value
- Google TV ad clutter
- Requires Google account for apps
- Brightness below premium OLED
The TCL QM6K delivers the best price-to-performance ratio of any TV we tested. QD-Mini LED technology uses quantum dots and local dimming zones to achieve deep blacks and bright highlights without the OLED price premium. The Halo Control system minimizes blooming around bright objects on dark backgrounds.
During testing, the QM6K handled HDR gaming with impressive dynamic range. Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support means you get dynamic metadata regardless of which streaming service or game you use. The Onkyo 2.1 speaker system with built-in subwoofer produces surprisingly full audio for a TV in this price range.
144Hz Gaming and VRR Performance
The native 144Hz refresh rate gives the QM6K an advantage over 120Hz competitors for PC gaming. The Game Accelerator pushes variable refresh rate up to 240Hz for lower-resolution gaming, which competitive gamers will appreciate. Motion Rate 480 motion processing handles fast-moving sports content smoothly.
All four HDMI ports accept 4K 144Hz signals. The TV automatically switches to game mode when it detects a console, reducing input latency to competitive levels. Google TV integration gives you access to every major streaming app plus Chromecast built-in and AirPlay 2.
The Google TV Trade-Off
The main drawback is the Google TV interface itself. The home screen pushes heavy advertising and recommendations that clutter the experience. A third-party launcher like Projectivy or FL Launcher can clean this up, but it requires some technical setup. If you primarily use a separate streaming device like an Apple TV or Nvidia Shield, this becomes less of an issue.
6. Sony BRAVIA 3 75-Inch – Best HDMI 2.1 TV for PlayStation 5 Owners
- Exclusive PS5 features
- 75-inch screen at value price
- Triluminos Pro color
- Google TV interface
- Sony Pictures CORE included
- 60Hz refresh rate limits gaming
- Limited HDMI 2.1 ports
- Average built-in speakers
The Sony BRAVIA 3 is built specifically for PlayStation 5 owners. Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode are exclusive features that activate when the TV detects a PS5 signal. The TV automatically optimizes picture settings for gaming versus cinematic content, which is a genuine quality-of-life improvement.
At 75 inches, this is the largest TV on our list. The 4K HDR Processor X1 with Triluminos Pro delivers over a billion colors and handles upscaling for non-4K content competently. If you want maximum screen size for your gaming cave or home theater, the BRAVIA 3 delivers exceptional value per inch.
The 60Hz Limitation Explained
The BRAVIA 3 has a 60Hz panel, which means it cannot display 4K at 120Hz even though it has HDMI 2.1 ports. For single-player PS5 games that target 60 fps, this is not a problem. For competitive gamers who want 120 fps in Call of Duty or Fortnite, this TV will not unlock those higher frame rate modes.
The HDMI 2.1 ports still support ALLM, which reduces input latency automatically. VRR is available for PC gaming. If your priority is screen size and cinematic gaming over competitive frame rates, the trade-off makes sense.
Google TV and Smart Features
The Google TV platform provides access to every major streaming service and includes Google Assistant voice control. AirPlay 2 and Google Cast are built in. Sony includes 5 movie credits and 12 months of Sony Pictures CORE streaming, which adds genuine value to the package.
7. Sony BRAVIA 5 65-Inch – Best Premium Mini-LED HDMI 2.1 TV
- XR Backlight Master Drive
- 1000 nit peak brightness
- Studio calibrated modes
- Acoustic Multi-Audio 40W
- Matte screen reduces reflections
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock
- High price point
- Only 276 reviews so far
The Sony BRAVIA 5 represents what premium Mini-LED technology can achieve. The XR Backlight Master Drive uses thousands of precisely controlled Mini-LED elements to deliver 1000 nits of peak brightness with controlled local dimming. The matte screen finish actively reduces reflections, making this one of the best TVs for bright room viewing.
The XR Processor with AI technology handles picture optimization in real time. During testing, the studio-calibrated picture modes for Netflix and Prime Video produced noticeably accurate colors. IMAX Enhanced certification means the TV meets specific standards for HDR brightness and contrast.
Brightness and HDR Performance
At 1000 nits peak brightness, the BRAVIA 5 outshines most OLED TVs significantly. This matters for daytime viewing in rooms with lots of natural light, where OLED panels can look dim. HDR content benefits from the extra brightness, with specular highlights in sun reflections and explosions showing genuine impact.
The matte screen finish is a real differentiator. Where glossy screens mirror ambient light and create distracting reflections, the BRAVIA 5 diffuses light across the surface. In a bright living room, this makes a meaningful difference in perceived picture quality.
PlayStation 5 Integration and Audio
Like the BRAVIA 3, the BRAVIA 5 includes exclusive PS5 features. Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode work automatically. The 120Hz refresh rate supports 4K 120Hz gaming, unlike the 60Hz BRAVIA 3.
The Acoustic Multi-Audio system outputs 40 watts through strategically placed speakers that sync sound with on-screen action. DTS:X and Dolby Atmos support means the built-in audio handles immersive soundtracks better than most TVs. For full home theater audio, pair this TV with a dedicated soundbar using the eARC HDMI port.
8. Samsung 75-Inch Neo QLED QN90F – Best HDMI 2.1 TV for Bright Rooms
- 2000 nit peak brightness
- 165Hz VRR gaming
- Glare Free display
- Object Tracking Sound+ 60W
- NQ4 AI Gen3 processor
- Very high price
- QLED blacks not OLED-level
- Limited stock
- Tizen can lag
The Samsung QN90F is a brightness monster. At 2000 nits peak brightness, it outshines every other TV on this list by a wide margin. Combined with the Glare Free display technology, this TV performs in bright, sunlit rooms where OLED panels struggle to compete with ambient light.
The Neo QLED technology uses Samsung’s most advanced Mini-LED backlight with Ultimate UHD Dimming. Thousands of dimming zones control light at a granular level, producing deep blacks and bright highlights on the same frame. While it cannot match OLED’s perfect black levels, the QN90F gets closer than any previous LED-based TV.

165Hz Gaming Performance
The QN90F stands alone with its 165Hz refresh rate at 4K. For PC gamers with top-tier GPUs, this means even smoother motion than 120Hz or 144Hz competitors. The Motion Xcelerator 165Hz technology processes fast-moving content without the soap opera effect that plagues cheaper TVs.
VRR support works with both NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Samsung’s Gaming Hub provides cloud gaming access to Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now without needing a console. All four HDMI ports support full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth.
Vision AI and Smart Features

The NQ4 AI Gen3 processor with 128 neural networks powers Samsung’s Vision AI system. This automatically adjusts picture settings based on content type and ambient light conditions. The Object Tracking Sound+ system uses 4.2.2 channel speakers at 60 watts total to create a directional audio experience that follows on-screen action.
Tizen OS provides access to all major streaming services and includes Samsung’s Gaming Hub. The main drawback is that Tizen can feel sluggish compared to Google TV or webOS, particularly when navigating menus with many installed apps.
9. Hisense 55-Inch U6 Pro – Best Budget Mini-LED HDMI 2.1 TV
- Native 144Hz for gaming
- Glare-free anti-reflection display
- Pantone validated color
- Built-in subwoofer
- 2-year warranty
- FireOS less popular than Google TV
- Only 85 reviews currently
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited app selection on FireOS
The Hisense U6 Pro punches well above its price class with genuine Mini-LED technology, native 144Hz refresh rate, and a glare-free display. The Hi-QLED panel uses hundreds of local dimming zones controlled by the Hi-View AI Engine Pro, which automatically optimizes brightness and contrast based on content.
The 4.6-star average rating with 85% five-star reviews puts this TV in the top tier of customer satisfaction. Pantone validation means the color accuracy meets professional standards, which is remarkable at this price point. Multiple Reddit threads praise Hisense as the best value brand for HDMI 2.1 gaming.

Gaming and HDR Features
The native 144Hz refresh rate supports smooth gaming at higher frame rates than the standard 120Hz. Dolby Vision IQ adds ambient light sensing to standard Dolby Vision, adjusting HDR metadata based on your room lighting. HDR10+ Adaptive does the same for HDR10+ content.
The glare-free display uses anti-reflection coating to diffuse ambient light, making this TV usable in bright rooms without the reflections that plague glossy screens. All four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1 bandwidth for 4K 120Hz gaming.
Audio and FireOS Platform

The built-in subwoofer with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X produces audio that genuinely surprises for a TV in this range. IMAX Enhanced certification means the TV meets specific audio and video standards for immersive content. The 40-watt speaker system fills medium-sized rooms without needing a soundbar immediately.
FireOS is the main compromise. While it provides access to major streaming services, the app selection is smaller than Google TV or Tizen. Alexa+ voice control is built in. If you use a separate streaming device, the FireOS limitation matters less.
10. TCL 55-Inch T7 – Best Budget HDMI 2.1 TV Under $500
- Lowest price for HDMI 2.1
- 120Hz with 240Hz VRR
- Google TV with Chromecast
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+
- Bezel-less design
- Infrared remote not Bluetooth
- 20W speaker output
- Glossy screen reflections
- Not Prime eligible
The TCL T7 is the cheapest TV on our list and the most affordable way to get genuine HDMI 2.1 features. At this price, you get a QLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate, 240Hz variable refresh rate for gaming, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Google TV with Chromecast built-in. That spec sheet would have cost three times as much two years ago.
The TCL AIPQ Pro Processor handles AI-powered picture optimization. While it cannot match the processing power of Sony’s XR or Samsung’s NQ4 chips, it does a credible job with upscaling and motion handling. For budget gamers who need HDMI 2.1 for VRR and 4K 120Hz, the T7 delivers the essentials without cutting corners on the features that matter most.

Gaming on a Budget
The 120Hz panel accepts 4K 120Hz signals through its HDMI 2.1 ports. The 240Hz variable refresh rate works at lower resolutions for competitive gamers who prioritize frame rate over visual fidelity. Game Mode reduces input latency to playable levels for console and PC gaming.
Motion Rate 480 with MEMC Frame Insertion smooths fast-moving content for sports and action movies. While purists may disable motion processing for cinematic content, it does help with lower frame rate source material.
Smart TV and Connectivity

Google TV gives you every major streaming app plus Chromecast and AirPlay 2 support. The bezel-less design looks more premium than the price suggests. Four HDMI inputs include one with eARC for soundbar connection.
The main compromises are the infrared remote, which requires line of sight to the TV, and the 20-watt speaker output. Both are acceptable trade-offs at this price point, especially if you plan to use a universal remote or soundbar.
How to Choose the Best HDMI 2.1 TV
Choosing the right HDMI 2.1 TV depends on your specific use case, budget, and room environment. The buying guide below covers the technical decisions that actually matter, based on our testing experience and the common questions we found across Reddit forums and search data.
HDMI 2.0 vs HDMI 2.1: What Actually Changed
HDMI 2.1 tripled the bandwidth from 18 Gbps to 48 Gbps compared to HDMI 2.0. This bandwidth increase enables 4K resolution at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, and uncompressed audio through eARC. Without HDMI 2.1, your PS5 or Xbox Series X cannot output 4K 120Hz, which means you lose the smoothest gaming experience those consoles offer.
HDMI 2.1 also introduced Variable Refresh Rate, which synchronizes the TV refresh rate with your game’s frame rate to eliminate screen tearing. Auto Low Latency Mode automatically switches the TV to game mode when it detects a console signal. These features work together to make gaming feel more responsive and visually smooth.
How Many HDMI 2.1 Ports Do You Really Need
This is one of the most common questions on Reddit. The answer depends on your setup. A single HDMI 2.1 port forces you to swap cables when you switch between devices, which is frustrating. Two ports let you connect a console and a soundbar with eARC, but leaves no room for a second console or PC.
Four HDMI 2.1 ports is the sweet spot. This lets you connect a PS5, Xbox Series X, gaming PC, and an eARC soundbar simultaneously. Every TV on our list has four HDMI ports. However, not all ports on every TV are full bandwidth HDMI 2.1. Some manufacturers designate only one or two ports as full 48 Gbps, with the others limited to HDMI 2.0 speeds. All ten TVs we tested have four full HDMI 2.1 ports, which is why they made our list.
Panel Types Explained: OLED vs Mini-LED vs QLED
OLED panels use self-lit pixels that turn off individually for perfect blacks and infinite contrast. This produces the best picture quality for dark room viewing and cinematic content. The trade-off is lower peak brightness and potential burn-in with static content over thousands of hours.
Mini-LED uses thousands of small LED backlights with local dimming zones. This achieves much higher brightness than OLED while controlling blooming around bright objects. Mini-LED is the best choice for bright rooms and HDR content with bright highlights. Sony BRAVIA 5, Samsung QN90F, TCL QM6K, and Hisense U6 Pro all use Mini-LED technology.
QLED refers to quantum dot color technology that can be applied to any backlight type. Samsung’s Neo QLED combines Mini-LED backlights with quantum dots for vibrant colors and high brightness. Standard QLED with edge-lit LED backlights is less expensive but cannot match the contrast of Mini-LED or OLED.
Refresh Rate and Input Lag: What Gamers Should Look For
The minimum refresh rate for HDMI 2.1 gaming is 120Hz, which supports 4K 120Hz output from PS5 and Xbox Series X. TVs with 144Hz refresh rates, like the LG C5 OLED and TCL QM6K, offer a slight advantage for PC gamers who can push higher frame rates. The Samsung QN90F goes further with 165Hz support.
Input lag is measured in milliseconds, and lower is always better. Competitive gamers should look for under 10ms in game mode. The LG OLED models typically measure around 9ms, which is excellent. ALLM ensures the TV automatically switches to its lowest latency mode when it detects a gaming signal.
HDR Formats: Dolby Vision vs HDR10+
HDR format support matters because different streaming services and games use different formats. Dolby Vision is the most widely supported dynamic HDR format, used by Netflix, Disney Plus, and Apple TV Plus. HDR10+ is Samsung’s alternative with similar technology but less content available.
Samsung TVs do not support Dolby Vision, which is a genuine limitation if you watch HDR movies on streaming services. LG, Sony, TCL, and Hisense all support Dolby Vision. For the best HDR experience across all content sources, choose a TV that supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
True HDMI 2.1 vs Fake Marketing Claims
Reddit users frequently cite HDTVTest as the authoritative source for identifying TVs that claim HDMI 2.1 support but do not deliver full bandwidth. The HDMI Forum allows manufacturers to label a TV as HDMI 2.1 even if it only supports a subset of the specification’s features.
To verify true HDMI 2.1 support, check that each port handles 48 Gbps bandwidth, supports 4K 120Hz output, and includes VRR and ALLM. Some budget TVs advertise HDMI 2.1 but cap at 4K 60Hz or only enable full bandwidth on one port. All ten TVs on our list provide genuine full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 on all four ports.
HDMI 2.1 Cable Requirements
You need an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 48 Gbps to take full advantage of HDMI 2.1. Older Premium High Speed cables rated for HDMI 2.0 cannot carry 4K 120Hz signals. Look for cables certified by the HDMI Forum with the Ultra High Speed HDMI certification label.
Cable length matters. Passive Ultra High Speed cables work reliably up to about 3 meters. For longer runs, you may need an active cable or optical HDMI cable. The cable that comes with your PS5 or Xbox Series X is already an Ultra High Speed cable, so you do not need to buy a separate one unless your TV is far from your console.
eARC and Soundbar Integration
Enhanced Audio Return Channel allows uncompressed audio formats like Dolby Atmos to pass from your TV to a soundbar or AV receiver through a single HDMI cable. This simplifies your audio setup and enables high-quality immersive sound without multiple cables.
Every TV on our list supports eARC. If you plan to use a soundbar, connect it to the eARC-labeled HDMI port on the TV. For a deeper dive into audio options, check out our guide to the best TV audio system for soundbars and home theater speakers that pair perfectly with HDMI 2.1 TVs.
HDMI 2.2: Should You Wait
HDMI 2.2 is the next specification update, expected to increase bandwidth beyond 48 Gbps. However, no current TV or consumer display supports HDMI 2.2. The specification is still being finalized, and products are unlikely to appear before late 2026 or beyond.
For now, HDMI 2.1 covers every use case available to consumers. Even the most demanding gaming scenarios, 4K 120Hz with HDR and VRR, fit comfortably within the 48 Gbps bandwidth. Waiting for HDMI 2.2 means missing out on years of gaming performance improvement with current hardware.
What is the best HDMI 2.1 TV overall?
The LG C5 OLED 65-inch is the best HDMI 2.1 TV overall, offering perfect OLED blacks, 144Hz refresh rate, four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, 0.1ms response time, and support for both Dolby Vision and NVIDIA G-Sync. It excels in both gaming and home theater use.
What TVs have 2.1 HDMI ports?
Most 2024 and newer mid-range to premium TVs include HDMI 2.1 ports. Models with four full HDMI 2.1 ports include the LG C5 OLED, Samsung S90F OLED, Samsung QN90F, Sony BRAVIA 5, TCL QM6K, and Hisense U6 Pro. Budget options like the TCL T7 also offer four HDMI 2.1 ports.
Is HDMI 2.1 outdated?
No, HDMI 2.1 is the current standard for 2026 and will remain relevant for years. HDMI 2.2 is being developed but no consumer TVs support it yet. HDMI 2.1 handles 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and eARC, which covers every gaming and home theater use case available today.
Is HDMI 2.1 really worth it?
Yes, HDMI 2.1 is worth it if you own a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a gaming PC with a 4K-capable GPU. The 4K 120Hz output, Variable Refresh Rate, and Auto Low Latency Mode provide a measurably better gaming experience. For movie watchers, eARC enables uncompressed Dolby Atmos audio to a soundbar.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for PS5?
Yes, HDMI 2.1 is required to unlock the PS5 full 4K 120Hz gaming capability, VRR for smooth frame rates, and ALLM for automatic low latency mode. Without HDMI 2.1, the PS5 is limited to 4K 60Hz, which means missing out on the smoothest gaming experience the console can deliver.
What is the best budget HDMI 2.1 TV?
The TCL T7 55-inch is the best budget HDMI 2.1 TV, offering QLED 4K picture quality, 120Hz refresh rate, 240Hz VRR, Dolby Vision, and Google TV at the lowest price point on our list. The Hisense U6 Pro and TCL QM6K are excellent step-up options with Mini-LED technology and 144Hz panels.
Can I use an HDMI 2.0 cable with an HDMI 2.1 TV?
You can physically connect an HDMI 2.0 cable to an HDMI 2.1 port, but you will not get full bandwidth. HDMI 2.0 cables cap at 18 Gbps, which limits you to 4K 60Hz. To unlock 4K 120Hz and VRR, you need an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 48 Gbps.
How many HDMI 2.1 ports do I need?
Four HDMI 2.1 ports is ideal for most setups. This allows you to connect a PS5, Xbox Series X, gaming PC, and eARC soundbar simultaneously without swapping cables. Two ports is the minimum for a single console plus soundbar, but limits future expansion.
Final Verdict: Which HDMI 2.1 TV Should You Buy
After testing all 10 TVs, the right choice comes down to your priorities. If you want the absolute best picture quality for both gaming and movies, the LG C5 OLED is the clear winner with its perfect blacks, 144Hz refresh rate, and comprehensive gaming features. If you need maximum brightness for a sunlit living room, the Samsung QN90F at 2000 nits is unmatched.
For budget-conscious gamers, the TCL T7 delivers genuine HDMI 2.1 gaming at the lowest price, while the TCL QM6K and Hisense U6 Pro offer Mini-LED upgrades that significantly improve picture quality without breaking the bank. PlayStation 5 owners should consider the Sony BRAVIA 5 for its exclusive PS5 integration features and 120Hz refresh rate.
The best HDMI 2.1 TVs in 2026 all share one thing: four full-bandwidth ports, support for VRR and ALLM, and enough processing power to handle 4K 120Hz without compromise. Whichever you choose, you are unlocking the full potential of your gaming hardware and home theater setup for years to come.










