Bring higher-definition pictures and brighter sounds into your home with one of the best 40-inch TVs your money can buy. There's nothing better than cosying up in front of the television with a cuppa to kick off the evening. If you find yourself spending more time cleaning your TV than actually watching it, you might be due an upgrade.
Smart TVs have all sorts of features that give you plenty to choose from. Features that come with smart TVs include internet browsing, streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube; as well as access to games and applications. TVs like this have been around for a while now, and they're here to stay.
Best 40-inch TVs at a glance
Whether you've decided to splash out on a 4K smart TV, or a more budget model, there are plenty of options to be found. Obviously, the higher your budget the better, as this could buy you essential perks that make all the difference - such as the latest 4K high resolution or in-built voice control such as Google Assistant. The latter really can make all the difference to your home and living environment, with easy access to various settings and smart home appliances as well as the TV itself.
If you need help with all of this smart TV jargon and what you should be looking for, we have you covered. There's a buyer's guide and more at the end of the article. But for now, read on for our pick of the best 40-inch smart TVs available right now.
Best 40-inch smart TVs
Recommended
Recommended
Amazon / HisenseWhether it's documentaries, dramas or soaps, you're taken care of with the Hisense 40 Inch 40A4NTUK FHD Smart TV with Freeview - and its Natural Colour Enhancer, to help you enjoy colours. Plus, with the easy-to-use, fast and secure Vidaa Smart OS, you have easy access to so much streaming content and channels - content all in one place. With the best picture and audio, this TV guarantees the smoothest ever viewing experience - very immersive.
Over 750 customers on Amazon UK have given this TV a 4.4/5 average star rating, with customers loving the weight - easy to move around, ease of set up and picture quality. Customers love the audio quality, too. One customer says that a decent Bluray player, can help provide a superb picture for your favourite movie.
However, the TV is HD, not 4K if supreme quality is important to you. Some customers are unsure about the sound. And, opinions are mixed on controls.
With DTS HD Sound, the sound appears to emerge from all around you - with richer basses, clear dialogue and a transformative listening experience. You can connect to more devices and external sources - from HDMI to USB and WiFi. It even works with Alexa - making it innovative and good quality viewing.
Pros
- Comes with a wall-mounting option
- FHD resolution for the best picture
- With a colour enhancer and crisp audio
Cons
- Some customers found it hard to control
| Dimensions: | H51.5 x W90 x D85 cm |
| Resolution: | Full HD 1920 x 1080p |
| Display: | FHD |
| Refresh rate: | 60 Hz |
| Connectivity: | Wireless, USB, HDMI, Ethernet |
| Voice control: | N/A |
| Model Year: | 2024 |
Best 40-inch TV for sound quality
Best 40-inch TV for sound quality
AO.com/TCLEnjoy vibrant and detailed viewing with this 40-inch TCL LED TV, boasting Full HD resolution and HDR10 for lifelike colours. Dolby Atmos® enriches the audio experience, while Smart TV capabilities allow easy access to streaming services via Google Assistant. What are the reviews saying?
AO.com's handful of reviews has earned the TCL 40" Full HD Smart TV - 40S5400AK a respectable 4.5/5 star rating. Many customers agree that the setup is straightforward and the TV is easy to use. One customer praises AO's fantastic service, going above and beyond in support. Many customers love the good value of this TV, especially the picture and sound quality. How about many negatives?
Some customers said that this TV is incompatible with BBC iPlayer and iTVX.
With great picture, colour and sound, this TCL pick is great quality - complete with Google Assistant and catch-up. Thanks to Dolby Atmos, it's an immersive experience, that you won't want to miss.
Pros
- Connects to Google Assistant
- Great picture and colour quality
- Delivers incredible surround sound
Cons
- Some reviews comment that they couldn't get BBC services with this TV
| Dimensions: | H52.4 x W90.5 x D7.5 cm |
| Resolution: | 1920 x 1080px FHD |
| Display: | LED |
| Refresh rate: | 60Hz |
| Connectivity: | Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI, Ethernet |
| Voice control: | Yes, Google Assistant |
| Model Year: | 2023 |
Best 40-inch TV for families
Best 40-inch TV for families
John Lewis/PanasonicThe Panasonic TX-40MS490B Smart Android TV is perfect for families, offering a clear picture, enhanced by multi-HDR technology for lifelike colour and contrast. Its Android-based smart platform provides access to a wide array of movies, shows, apps, and games Chromecast compatibility enables seamless streaming from your Android phone or tablet to the big screen. Also, there's a USB media player for showing off your holiday photos to friends. What are reviews saying?
With a 4/5 star rating, customers rate the quality and value as good and great, respectively. One customer commented that it provides excellent picture and sound quality, perfect for their living room. Many customers agree that the setup is relatively straightforward and the streaming option is a great touch for all. However, some customers found that the start-up is slow for the TV and apps.
Android TV with Google Assistant for effortless control and access to entertainment, Freeview Play for catch-up TV and on-demand services without subscription fees. This TV is also compatible with soundbars for enhanced audio quality. Note that a HDMI cable is required for connecting additional devices such as Blu-ray players or gaming consoles. It's perfect for the entire family.
Pros
- With Google Play and Google Assistant
- Chromecast built-in for phone streaming
- Great picture and sound quality
Cons
- Some found the start-up too slow
| Dimensions: | H52.2 x W90.9 x D8.7cm |
| Resolution: | Full HD 1920 x 1080px |
| Display: | LED HDR |
| Refresh rate: | 50Hz |
| Connectivity: | Wi-Fi Ethernet, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI |
| Voice control: | Google Assistant |
| Model Year: | 2023 |
Best 40-inch smart TV for picture quality
Best 40-inch smart TV for picture quality
Argos/Samsungwww.argos.co.uk
Experience stunning Full HD picture quality enhanced with HDR for vibrant and lifelike images, courtesy of the Samsung Hyper Real Engine. This slim Samsung 40-inch Full HD HDR Smart TV features an elegant design with a narrow bezel, ensuring a focus on the picture from every angle.
From over 1,800 reviews, the Samsung 40-inch Full HD HDR Smart TV has an impressive average of 4.7/5 stars - with 95% of customers recommending this product. It rates well on sound quality (4.6), highly on design and value (4.7) and exceptionally on picture quality (4.8). One customer commented that it's been a fantastic choice, working well - with excellent picture and sound. Another loves how easy it is to use - with a simple remote - and worth the reasonable price, too. As for negatives, a few customers don't think the picture quality is particularly exceptional but appreciate the value.
Access a variety of free TV channels instantly with Samsung TV without the need for sign-ups or subscriptions. Additionally, Game Mode optimises the TV settings for an immersive gaming experience with consoles like PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo Switch. We're very impressed.
Pros
- Well-rated with plenty of features
- Excellent picture quality and sound
- Reasonable price, good value
Cons
- A few customers don't think the picture quality is exceptional
| Dimensions: | H52.77 x W91.71 x D7.7cm |
| Resolution: | Full HD (1920 x 1080px) |
| Display: | LED |
| Refresh rate: | 50Hz |
| Connectivity: | 1 USB port and 2 HDMI, Built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Voice control: | Yes, Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Model Year: | 2023, UE40T5300AEXXU |
Best 40-inch smart TV for ease of use
Best 40-inch smart TV for ease of use
Amazon/CelloAt under £300 right now, this Cello Android smart TV is great if you're looking for value for money with all the features. It has all of the streaming services you could want like Disney+, Prime Video, and Netflix. It's also equipped with Freeview Play so that you can watch all the best TV whenever you like.
Many customers praise the sound quality of the television, with the picture quality and value being other plus points. One customer said the picture is clear and crisp. Another adds that the sound is spot-on, whereas others recommend installing a sound bar for the best surround sound.
As for pain points, many customers found that the TV was sluggish to respond to the remote.
It's also activated by Google Assistant for amazing voice-control access. They've even thrown in Apple TV+ for good measure. What's not to like? Not only is it easy to use, but great value.
Pros
- Excellent features for the price
- With Google Assistant and Chromecast
- Popular apps are pre-loaded
Cons
- Customers found that the TV is sluggish to respond to the remote
| Dimensions: | 93.1 x 19 x 55.4 cm |
| Resolution: | 1080p |
| Display: | LED LCD |
| Refresh rate: | 60 Hz |
| Connectivity: | Wireless, Ethernet |
| Voice control: | Google Assistant |
| Model Year: | 2020 |
Best budget 40-inch smart TV
Best budget 40-inch smart TV
Amazon/RCAIf you're set on buying a Full HD 40-inch smart TV, but also enjoy your trusty Roku device for all of your apps and streaming services, this RCA Roku 40" FHD Smart TV is a great choice. Having Roku built into it means a slick and fast interface. Despite not being a 4K TV, it still has HDR- 'High Dynamic Range' - for a wider colour palette. Its sound is good too, with support for Dolby Audio and DTS Studio Sound that will really bring those games, sports and movies to life. What about reviews?
Thanks to over 7,000 reviews, this RCA Roku TV has garnered a decent 4.3/5 average star rating, with customers praising the ease of installation (hurrah) and the fit in their spaces. Not only is it said to be easy to set up, but it's also lightweight making any positioning adjustments a breeze. One customer commented that it's a fantastic TV for the price, with good picture quality and lots of sound options, loud enough for a noisy kitchen. Another was surprised to find lots of extra channels, without needing a signal booster.
However, some customers had some issues with the Roku TV. Some opinions were mixed on performance and sound quality. One customer suggests combining it with a sound bar for a great listening experience. Another customer found it a pain to set up - requiring the internet.
Despite no Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control, this really is great value for a smart TV sporting this kind of screen quality. The screen is LED too, so you can expect vibrant colours and a thin, lightweight set - ideal for the living room wall. A 2022 model, this is budget, yet high-quality.
Pros
- Excellent HDR picture quality
- Familiar, easy-to-use Roku interface
- Chromecast for Apple devices
Cons
- Opinions were mixed on sound quality
| Dimensions: | H55.7 x W89.2 x D18.8cm |
| Resolution: | 1080p |
| Display: | LED HDR |
| Refresh rate: | 60 Hz |
| Connectivity: | Wireless |
| Voice control: | No |
| Model Year: | 2022 |
Best 40-inch TV for Chromecast
Best 40-inch TV for Chromecast
Currys/BlaupunktDiscover all the popular shows from Netflix, Prime Video and more via Android TV with the BLAUPUNKT BA40F4382QKB 40" Smart Full HD LED TV with Google Assistant. Use Chromecast to seamlessly cast content from your smart devices. Plus, enjoy enhanced viewing with HD content upscaled to Full HD. Navigate effortlessly with the Google Assistant-enabled voice remote.
With a 3.8/5 star average from reviews at Currys. Customers agree that it's great value for money. One customer says they're happy with their choice, with good picture quality and easy to use. Another adds that it's fairly easy to use and set up, ideal if you have a tech-savvy grandchild to help.
As for negatives, there aren't that many. One customer has had a bad experience with this TV (slow TV response from remote, pixelated images) but may have received a faulty model or incorrectly set it up. Though the sound is said to be good, the brand does recommend purchasing a Dolby soundbar for the full experience. Another customer says it takes a little while to 'warm up'.
Experience a tailored viewing experience with the Android TV, providing direct access to over 400,000 films and shows. Immerse yourself in gaming with Game Mode, offering optimal response times and vivid 4K or Full HD resolution. Also, enjoy cinema-quality sound with Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital+ technology, delivering immersive surround sound. It's perfect for tech-savvy readers out there.
Pros
- Built-in Chromecast for versatile viewing
- Full upscaled HD picture quality for all inputs
- Discover streaming services from Netflix to Disney+
Cons
- Blaupunkt recommends pairing with a soundbar
| Dimensions: | H50.6 x W89.2 x D75.9cm |
| Resolution: | Full HD 1920 x 1080px |
| Display: | LED |
| Refresh rate: | 60Hz |
| Connectivity: | Wi-Fi, HDMI |
| Voice control: | Yes, Google Assistant |
| Model Year: | Not specified |
Best 40-inch smart TVs: Buyer's guide
What is a Smart TV?
A Smart TV may seem like an odd concept, but they're really quite simple to use. Smart TVs usually include a variety of apps, such as Netflix or YouTube, plus plenty of useful extras; and of course, you have various channels to choose from - all coming to your set via your wifi internet connection. And there's the real difference: smart TVs can access all of your favourite programmes without needing an antenna or satellite.
Many smart TVs also have built-in voice control. This pairs with devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, meaning you can control your TV with your voice. Planning to use streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Britbox or Disney Plus? You'll need to subscribe to them separately to access that content on your Smart TV. You should be able to access ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and All 4 without payment, though.
What 40-inch smart TV features should I look for?
There are a number of things to think about when you're deciding on which 40-inch Smart TVs to buy. If you're not set on all the techie terminology, here's a breakdown:
Resolution: Smart TVs can come in HD resolutions from 720p HD, 1080p HD or 4k Ultra HD. All of these are high-quality the further up you go. The greater the number of pixels, for instance, a width and height of 1920 x 1080 pixels, means a higher definition on the TV screen. You can even find 8K Ultra HD TVs, but these are generally found in larger sizes and are very expensive. Remember, all TV screens no matter their size will have to be kept free from dust and fingerprints, so always look into the best way to clean your TV screen.
High-dynamic-range (HDR): This is where it gets a bit more complex and is now a common feature of smart TVs. Usually included in sets with 4k and 8k resolutions, HDR means that there are more colours on display. This makes the picture 'pop' even more. This isn't the same thing as simply turning the colour setting up; think 'more colours', not 'more colour'.
How to connect to the internet: Every smart TV will need to connect to the internet and there are three ways to do this. First, a wireless (wi-fi) connection to your home internet router. Second, an ethernet cable - if your TV has one - which you’ll have to plug into your router directly; Finally, if your set is too far from your router for an ethernet cable there is a solution. Assuming you can't use WiFi, you can buy plugs (sold in pairs) that fit into a main power socket. They're often called 'powerline' or 'ethernet over mains' adapters. They send your internet connection from the router, through your power cables, to your TV.
Voice control: Lots of smart TVs can connect to Alexa, Google Voice or Siri. So, if you already use these in your home you could invest in a voice-activated TV to make things easier. No more hunting for the remote to do basic things like volume control and on-and-off.
Smart Home: Smart TVs are an essential centrepiece of anyone's collection of smart home gadgetry. They can often be controlled remotely alongside other equipment in your home - from lightbulbs to thermostats and more. But first things first - get your 40-inch smart TV nicely in place. Then you can look into smart homes later if you like the concept of clever home control.
FAQs: Best 40-inch TV
Do I need a 40-inch Smart TV?
This is down to what you want from your entertainment. In terms of the technology itself, the days of getting your programmes through a spindly aerial attached to the chimney are long gone. Nowadays you only really have three options: Satellite dish (like SKY), Digital Terrestrial (normally a small digital aerial close to the TV or inside the loft), or via the internet. The latter is becoming more common in sets of all sizes and has become the standard that most people go for.
If you only want to watch TV live as it's aired, and you aren't likely to watch programmes 'on-demand', then Freesat or Freeview is probably the way to go, but for the most flexibility and to keep up with things like the latest apps and streaming video like YouTube or Amazon Prime, a Smart TV is the way to go.
What are 4K and Ultra HD (UHD)?
These are more or less the same thing: the amount of detail on the screen. 4K will give you four times the number of pixels than standard HD screens. If you can, it totally makes sense to try to go for one of the best 4k smart TV deals you can find. The higher the number of pixels, the more clearer and detailed the image.
What is HDR?
HDR (or High Dynamic Range) is all about the extra colours the set can display. It also gives more crispness, contrast and sheer depth to the picture. Another benefit of having a wider range of colours to display is that whites tend to be brighter and blacks deeper.
What are the best apps for a smart TV?
This is where you need to spend a little time jotting down what you like to watch and which channels or streaming services they're available through. Most TV sets these days will come with Netflix and YouTube, but you'll need to double-check the inclusion of some others, like Amazon Prime Video and Spotify. Quite often if an app is not there as standard it can be downloaded for free via the TV's app store. But don't forget - whilst apps are almost always free to download, the services are sometimes only for paying subscribers - so, for instance, you'll need a paid-for Netflix account to watch via the TV's Netflix app.
What is Freeview Play?
Freeview Play is an app that pulls together programmes and films from both popular on-demand and catch-up television streaming services. It will allow you to search for your favourite shows, see what's on next, and watch episodes from the previous week on demand. This means that for regular mainstream TV watching you'll find the best of BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and All 4 in one place for ease of use.
What is refresh rate, and what is Hz?
In the specifications for our recommended Smart TVs, you'll have come across terms like '50Hz'. This is the refresh rate of the TV. What that means is that all screens have to refresh their pixels several times a second to show you a moving picture. Measured in Hertz, or Hz, a TV with a refresh rate of 50Hz will essentially 'reload' the image 50 times in one second. So, the higher the refresh rate, the smoother the image will be - particularly when watching programmes with fast-motion, like sports or action movies.
Caitlin Casey was a Senior Beauty & Fashion Products Writer for Bauer Media Group. She covers shopping, women's lifestyle, popular culture as well as all things trending.