How we test TVs at ZDNET in 2025

Today, television is more than just something for watching movies and shows. The latest smart TVs can turn your living room into a true entertainment center, allowing you to stream music, content and shows from thousands of apps, view photos and videos from your mobile device, browse the web, and even access your TV remotely desktop or make a work video call.

also: The best TVs: expert tests

But that doesn’t mean the fundamentals of what makes television great and “average” have changed. ZDNET conducts a series of real-world tests and lab benchmarks on every TV we review to help you find the one that’s best for your space, entertainment needs, and budget. If you’re wondering what exactly we’re looking for before we recommend a TV to you, here’s a breakdown of how we evaluate every aspect of a TV, from catching up on cable news to streaming the latest movies to consoles, games and screens from mobile devices Share content.

How we’ll test TVs in 2025

Nearly all the TVs we test for ZDNET reviews or make our best-of lists are made available by manufacturers either before or shortly after they are released to the public. This means that sometimes the TV we receive is embargoed and cannot be discussed in any form until a specified date and time. While this may seem like a roadblock, the embargo period gives ZDNET reviewers time to learn about the TVs and ask questions without being influenced by outside reviews or customer sentiment.

Testing times vary for each TV as we negotiate with the manufacturer for short and long term testing to address any bugs or other issues that may arise. But typically, our TV testing process takes one to two weeks. ZDNET writers rarely review TVs they purchase.

During this time, ZDNET’s writers and experts not only pore over the TV’s menus and test its performance, but also interview brand representatives and product engineers to get a deeper understanding of what the TV does and what, if any, new features have been added compared to older ones. model comparison, as well as any sustainability measures taken during the manufacturing process. Whether a TV is purchased by a ZDNET reviewer or sent by a brand for testing and writing, ZDNET is committed to editorial integrity. This means brands cannot and will not influence our testing and final reviews by providing test units or interviews, and all brand contributions are clearly noted in the review to ensure full transparency for readers.

Why is ZDNET TV recommended?

Just because a brand sends us a TV for testing and review doesn’t mean it’ll automatically be included in reviews and best-of lists. If ZDNET thinks a model doesn’t meet our standards, we won’t write about it.

When we do real-world testing, whether at home or in a test lab, we look at four main categories to determine whether a TV is worth recommending to our readers: picture and sound quality, connectivity and smart features, ease of use, and Privacy and security. While each category is important in its own right, we tend to weigh image/sound quality and connectivity/smart features during our testing because these are what readers typically focus on most when trying to make a purchasing decision.

To be included in a buying guide or review, a TV must excel in every aspect, as there are plenty of average, affordable, and passable models on the market. We also consider verified customer reviews from retailers to identify any common issues such as firmware errors or malfunctioning features. While many negative reviews have nothing to do with the product itself (customer service, shipping delays, damage in transit, etc.), those that focus on product issues can be a valuable resource for learning about known issues with firmware updates, apps, etc. were the troops who died on arrival. We’ll also compare the new model to previous iterations to see if there are any meaningful upgrades, such as improved LED/OLED panels, enhanced processors, better security, and more.

Image and sound quality

When you purchase a TCL 98-inch S5 series TVno matter the price, you want it to have a decent picture and sound; there’s nothing like unboxing and setting up a very expensive new TV only to turn it on and discover that the picture quality is nothing like the promotional pictures or that the built-in speakers sound like tin Cans are even worse.

Here at ZDNET, we have several reviews on TV testing. ZDNET TV reviewer Artie Beaty tested the TV through a combination of streaming and physical media to try out different picture and sound settings and find the perfect balance. He also prioritized screens with matte or anti-glare surfaces to help reduce reflections and harsh glare from sunlight and overhead lights. Beaty also advises that if you live in a noisy area or have kids and pets, the built-in speakers may not be enough for everyone to hear what you’re watching, so you may want to invest in them sound bar Help facilitate conversation and music.

When ZDNET editor Kyle Kucharski tests TVs, he says he focuses on a TV’s price/performance ratio to determine whether a model is a good value for our readers. When asked how the test was conducted, he said: “The barrier to entry is very low, but the ceiling for expert level is very high.” Having a basic understanding of the components of a solid TV for home use (refresh rate, resolution, smart features, etc.), can go a long way in helping you narrow down your choices so you can only consider the TV that best fits your budget.

Kerry Wan, senior comments editor at ZDNET, runs a YouTube video test He inspects each TV to check for bleeding and smearing, the “dirty screen” effect, and screen burn in the sensitive OLED panels. This test can help you determine what changes you need to make to your image settings to get the best image on your new TV, or identify problems that may require a return or exchange.

As for myself, as ZDNET’s senior TV reviewer, I put each TV through a series of tests, including screen sharing media from multiple devices, modifying the game mode to push the refresh rate to the limit, app support for search, Old media is upscaled to 4K and the audio between the more Dolby-capable models and those using more basic audio processing. I also prioritize accessibility features such as high-contrast picture mode, screen readers/text-to-speech, and audio description for deaf/hard of hearing and blind/visually impaired users. I’d even consider offering some special, nice-to-have features like video calling and remote PC access for work-at-home professionals who might not want to be tied to a desk all day.

Connectivity and smart features

Today, a TV isn’t much use if it can’t connect to the internet, or at least connect to a device that can. ZDNET readers and customers generally expect certain features to come standard on their TVs, such as pre-installation of popular streaming apps, voice control, and screen sharing.

While it’s increasingly rare to find a “dumb” TV these days, you might still end up with one if you don’t double-check the smart features. Every TV we test at ZDNET must have basic smart features, such as Internet connectivity and music and video streaming, before it can be considered for inclusion in a buying guide or product review. We also consider how many physical devices can be connected to the TV at any given time.

A model with multiple HDMI inputs is a must-have for anyone who wants to set up a custom home audio setup, connect a gaming console, or set up a wired or Roku box. Some HDMI connections support native 120Hz refresh rates as well as variable refresh rate technologies like Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync to help prevent screen tearing and stuttering when playing games or watching fast-paced movies and shows. We also check out RF and composite connections for retro gaming collectors who don’t want to find an old CRT TV for their old console.

Easy to use

If you don’t know how to use your new TV, it won’t do you any good. Confusing menus and hidden settings can produce even the most stunning results organic light emitting diode TV Useless plastics and electronics. ZDNET made sure every TV we tested was easy to navigate, whether using the included remote or voice control via your favorite virtual assistant or smart speaker. We prioritize TVs with simplified center menus that let you customize your home screen to keep your most-used apps where you need them, for quick access to your favorite shows, movies, and music.

We also look for accessibility features for customers with disabilities to help them find the features that best suit their needs. Some models have screen readers and high-contrast modes, while others allow speech-to-text input. It even lets you set up a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to more easily navigate the home screen, which is key for anyone who struggles with fine motor control issues with traditional remotes.

Privacy and security

Many of our devices, including TVs, are connected to the internet, so keeping your profile and internet activity safe from prying eyes is a priority. We look for supported TVs VPN Automatic firmware updates for secure, anonymous web browsing and the latest security patches. Samsung’s latest TV lineup It even integrates a Knox security chip for end-to-end encryption of your online activity to help prevent digital criminals from stealing your credit card information, passwords, and Internet history.