The 85-inch TV once ruled the world of large-screen home entertainment. Although it’s now overshadowed by newer 98-inch and even 115-inch models, it remains one of the top picks for most living rooms. With its expansive display delivering sharp details, vibrant colors, and striking contrast, an 85-inch TV is a fantastic way to bring a true cinematic feel into your home.
Also: Samsung Micro RGB vs. QLED vs. OLED
In our May update, we swapped out the LG G4 OLED for the newer LG G6, as it’s the brand’s latest flagship with a refreshed design. We also confirmed that all other 85-inch TVs on this list are currently in stock and represent the most up-to-date versions available.
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What is the best 85-inch TV right now?
I’ve selected the Samsung QN90F as the top 85-inch TV thanks to its object-tracking sound, built-in cloud gaming apps, 120Hz refresh rate, and improved picture quality over earlier models. If you’re after something more affordable or better suited for bright rooms, keep reading to discover our other top recommendations for 85-inch TVs.
The best 85-inch TVs of 2026
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Adam Breeden/ZDNET
Why we like it: The Samsung QN90F is a standout choice for anyone upgrading their living room or home theater with a large-screen TV. Its 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth motion during fast-paced scenes in movies, shows, and sports. It also supports Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound and Samsung’s object-tracking sound technology, which syncs audio with on-screen action for a more immersive experience.
During testing, I noticed the QLED panel’s warmer color tone was easier on the eyes in both bright and dimly lit rooms—especially after comparing it with other models over a week. Older films and series look clean and bright, with just enough upscaling to eliminate the fuzziness of lower-resolution formats without introducing that overly smooth, artificial motion effect.
It’s also great for gaming—especially titles like *Ghost of Tsushima*. The game’s environments burst with color, and the QN90F rendered them beautifully, with deep contrast in night scenes and rich reds and yellows in forested areas. However, rhythm game fans may need to tweak input lag manually, since the variable refresh rate can significantly impact gameplay responsiveness.
Review: Samsung QN90F
Who it’s for: The QN90F is ideal for cord-cutters who stream content and for gamers wanting a dedicated setup. With the Samsung Gaming Hub, you can access cloud gaming services and play your favorite games without needing a PC or console. It also includes AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR to minimize screen tearing and stuttering. If you want top-tier picture quality without stepping up to OLED, the QN90F is hard to beat.
Who should look elsewhere: Despite its premium features, the QN90F may not deliver the ultra-sharp image quality you’d expect from a high-end home theater. For more lifelike visuals at a similar price, consider OLED models from Samsung, LG, or Sony.
Samsung QN90F tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: Neo QLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Neo Quantum HDR+ | Audio: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ | Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google
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Why we like it: LG has updated its flagship OLED lineup with the G6, which features an ultra-thin, gallery-style design, a matte display, and a suite of new smart features. The G6 includes a dedicated Filmmaker Mode for authentic movie streaming and a Dynamic Sports mode to keep up with live action. It supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for enhanced visuals and virtual surround sound, while Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync ensure buttery-smooth gaming performance.
Also: LG G6 vs. LG G5
Who it’s for: If you want an OLED TV that looks as stunning as it performs, the LG G6 is an excellent pick. Its art-inspired design allows for a flush wall mount, blending seamlessly into your room’s decor. With its balance of aesthetics and functionality, it’s perfect for movie lovers and multimedia enthusiasts who want the best from their shows, music, and more.
Who should look elsewhere: The LG G6 is a premium OLED TV with a price to match. The 83-inch model retails for around $6,500, but there are more budget-friendly OLED options from Samsung and LG. Alternatively, you could opt for a less expensive panel type like LED for an even more affordable big-screen experience.
LG G6 OLED tech specs: Screen size: 83 inches | Panel type: OLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
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Why we like it: The Hisense U8QG delivers an incredibly smooth viewing experience, with motion blur and screen tearing nearly eliminated thanks to its 144Hz native refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR support. It also features Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for sharp visuals and immersive virtual surround sound without needing a headset. With Wi-Fi 6E, you’ll enjoy faster, more reliable wireless connectivity for seamless online gaming.
Review: Hisense U8QG TV
Who it’s for: If you’re after vivid, lifelike images paired with rich, immersive audio, the Hisense U8QG is an excellent pick. Its dedicated gaming picture mode enhances color and detail while reducing input lag and smoothing motion using AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR.
Who should look elsewhere: Even if you’re not a gamer, the Hisense U8QG still offers plenty of value. However, many of its gaming-specific features won’t benefit movie or TV show streaming since they’re tied to the gaming picture mode. Hisense has other mid-range and high-end models better optimized for streaming content.
Hisense U8QG tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: Mini LED | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
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Why we like it: Watching TV in a brightly lit room can really hurt your viewing experience—but the TCL QM8K is built to handle it. With a peak brightness of 5,000 nits, it outperforms nearly every other TV we’ve tested in bright environments. Colors and details stay vivid and clear, no matter the lighting. It also boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and 4K resolution for a crisp, fluid image, plus Dolby Vision HDR for stunning contrast and color depth. The TCL QM8K also ranked among the top two most popular TVs purchased by ZDNET readers in 2025.
Review: TCL QM8K
Who it’s for: If your living room or home theater gets lots of natural sunlight or has strong overhead lighting, the TCL QM8K is a standout choice. Its 5,000-nit brightness ensures a clear, easy-to-see picture even in direct sunlight—making it ideal for window-heavy rooms or daytime binge-watching sessions.
Who should look elsewhere: The TCL QM8K is a solid mid-range large-screen TV, but it might not include every feature you need. If top-tier picture quality is your main goal, consider stepping up to an OLED model—if you’re willing to pay the higher price.
TCL QM8K tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: QLED | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
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Why we like it: The Sony Bravia 3 is one of the brand’s more budget-friendly options, with the 85-inch version priced around $1,100. It gives you access to thousands of streaming apps, free live TV channels, and built-in voice controls for hands-free operation. It also supports Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos for superior picture clarity and a more immersive audio experience.
Who it’s for: Whether you’re a longtime Sony fan or new to the brand, the Bravia 3 is a great fit. It delivers strong picture and sound quality along with a suite of smart features to create a top-tier home entertainment setup. You can even make video calls using the optional Bravia Cam—perfect for staying connected with loved ones or joining work meetings from your couch.
Who should look elsewhere: While the Bravia 3 is a capable LED TV, it may not satisfy those seeking the absolute best in picture and audio performance. If you’re ready to invest in a premium 85-inch TV that offers a top-tier viewing experience and long-term durability, explore OLED models from Sony, LG, or Samsung.
Sony Bravia 3 tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: LED | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
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My top pick for the best 85-inch TV is the Samsung QN90F. Its upgraded Neo QLED display delivers more precise colors and stronger contrast, while Dolby Atmos and Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound+ create a more immersive audio experience for movies, shows, and music.
Best 85-inch TV | Price | HDR | Audio |
Samsung QN90F | $2,500 | Neo Quantum HDR+ | Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ |
Sony Bravia 3 | $1,500 | Dolby Vision | Dolby Atmos |
LG G6 OLED | $6,500 | Dolby Vision | Dolby Atmos |
Hisense U8QG | $1,798 | Dolby Vision IQ | Dolby Atmos |
TCL QM8K | $1,798 | Dolby Vision | Dolby Atmos |
*MSRP at time of writing. Actual prices may vary by retailer and current promotions.
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Once you’ve set a budget for your new 85-inch TV, the key factor is how you plan to use it most. If you’ve switched entirely to streaming, look for a model that comes with built-in access to popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video so you can start watching right away.
If you own smart speakers, choose a TV compatible with your preferred voice assistant and offering multi-room audio to fill your home with sound.
This table helps you quickly identify which 85-inch TV best matches your viewing habits.
Buy this 85-inch TV… | If you want… |
Samsung QN90F | A versatile 85-inch TV. With object tracking sound, HDR support, and Dolby Atmos, it delivers excellent picture and audio for both gaming and streaming. |
Sony Bravia 3 | An 85-inch Sony TV with access to thousands of streaming apps, exclusive VRR support for PlayStation 5, and built-in voice controls. |
LG G6 OLED | An 85-inch TV with outstanding picture quality. The LG G6 OLED is a premium, gallery-style TV featuring Dolby Vision HDR and a dedicated filmmaker mode. |
Hisense U8QG | An 85-inch TV ideal for console and PC gaming. It offers a 144Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR, and four HDMI ports. |
TCL QM8K | An 85-inch TV perfect for bright living rooms or home theaters. With peak brightness of 5,000 nits, it remains clearly visible even in direct sunlight or under strong overhead lights. |
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Before purchasing an 85-inch TV, keep these important factors in mind:
- Use cases: Will you primarily watch movies, play video games, stream shows, follow live sports, or do a bit of everything? Some TVs include dedicated gaming hubs for customizing settings, others feature powerful built-in speakers for cinematic sound, and some simply offer the best overall picture. Pick the model that excels in the area most important to you.
- TV location: Think about where you’ll place your TV. Certain models struggle in bright rooms, while others are specifically engineered to perform well in high ambient light.
- Price: Decide how much you’re willing to spend. Affordable options exist, but they may lack some premium features.
- Number of ports: Some TVs have limited input options. If you’re connecting multiple devices—like game consoles, a soundbar, and a cable box—you might need to prioritize which gets the best connection. Make sure the TV has enough ports for all your gear.
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While most major brands now standardize around common screen sizes, a few exceptions remain—even among big names like Sony and LG. Some manufacturers offer 83-inch models, which I’ve also evaluated since their viewing area is very close to that of an 85-inch TV.
In addition, I considered several other key aspects when testing and researching the 85-inch TVs featured here:
- Picture quality: A TV is only as good as the images it displays. With 4K resolution and 60–120Hz refresh rates now standard, it’s easier than ever to find a high-quality large-screen TV. Sony also offers a large OLED model for ultra-sharp visuals and superior contrast.
- Audio quality: Weak or tinny built-in speakers can spoil your experience. I selected 85-inch TVs that support HDMI eARC for connecting soundbars and other audio systems, along with premium formats like Dolby Atmos.
- Features: While all models on this list deliver solid picture and sound, some stand out with extras. These include advanced picture customization options and specialized gaming modes tailored to your play style.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are now standard as more viewers shift from cable to streaming via apps like Netflix and Disney+. I also ensured each TV includes multiple HDMI and USB ports, plus a wired Ethernet option for more stable internet—making it easy to connect Blu-ray players, game consoles, audio gear, and more.
Learn more about ZDNET’s TV testing methodology.
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Latest news on 85-inch TVs
Most brands have recently launched updated TV models. New sets from Sony, LG, TCL, and Hisense now feature improved displays and audio processing, dedicated picture modes for streaming and console gaming, and enhanced smart capabilities like screen mirroring and built-in voice assistants.
Although 85-inch TVs are becoming lighter, they can still be quite heavy and require wider VESA mount spacing. For this reason, it’s worth investing in a sturdy, heavy-duty wall mount. Options like the Echogear wall mount are designed to handle screens up to 90 inches and support weights of up to 125 pounds (approximately 57kg). Always check your TV’s user manual for exact mounting guidelines to ensure your new display stays securely in place — and doesn’t pull a chunk of your wall down with it overnight.
Also: Best TV antennas and best indoor TV antennas
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The simplest way to figure out the right TV size is to measure the distance in inches from where the TV will sit — whether on a stand or wall-mounted — to your seating area, then divide that number by two. If your couch is between 150 and 170 inches (roughly 12.5 to 14 feet) away from the screen, an 85-inch TV will be an ideal match.
You can always go larger or smaller based on your budget and what each brand offers. A screen that’s too large can dominate the room and may even trigger motion sickness, while one that’s too small can make the space feel empty and leave everyone craning their necks to see.
Also: Best 75-inch TV
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Latest Updates
May 2026: We swapped out the LG G4 OLED in favor of the LG G6. We also verified that every other 85-inch TV on this list is currently in stock and represents the most up-to-date model available.
More 85-inch TVs
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Kerry Wan/ZDNET
The Samsung S95F ranks among the finest OLED TVs I’ve tested, delivering outstanding picture quality for streaming, gaming, and live television. With a 165Hz refresh rate, you’ll enjoy smoother motion during live sports and console gaming, while Dolby Atmos creates a virtual surround sound experience that makes movies feel truly immersive.
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TV Models Reviewed and Compared
