Time was a smaller TV meant big compromises on picture, sound, and everything in between. Thankfully, we’ve moved on.
Today, you can grab very capable compact sets that share some of the same bells and whistles as some of the best TVs. Take two of our favourite 48-inch models in the form of the LG C5 and Samsung S90F – both of which we’ve thoroughly reviewed.
With the scene set, read on to see which small TV deserves your cash…
Screen sizes: 48 inches (also available in 42, 55, 65, 77 and 83 inches)
Type: OLED
HDMI inputs: x 4 (4 x 48Gbps HDMI 2.1)
Gaming features: 4K/120Hz, 4K/144Hz, VRR, ALLM, Dolby Vision game mode, HGiG
Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 62 x 107 x 4.7cm
The C5 excels at versatility, with four full-speed HDMI 2.1 inputs, comprehensive gaming features, and a mature webOS platform. It’s crammed with features, although it requires extensive calibration to overcome inconsistent colour volume issues and delivers underwhelming audio.
Pros
- Bright picture
- Flawless gaming specifications
- Excellent app support
Cons
- Not much of an upgrade on the C4
- Some picture inconsistencies
- Below average audio
Screen sizes: 48 inches (also available in 55, 65, 77, and 83 inches)
Type: OLED
HDMI inputs: x 4 (all 48Gbps HDMI 2.1)
Gaming features: 4K/120Hz, 4K/144Hz, VRR, ALLM
Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 62 x 107 x 4cm
The Samsung S90F delivers a bright, punchy OLED experience with excellent contrast control, strong colour volume and impressive upscaling that places it among the best small OLEDs available, and the more complete package overall compared to the LG at this size.
Pros
- Punchy picture
- Flawless gaming specifications
- Practical stand design
Cons
- Colours are a bit overbaked
- Middling audio
- No Dolby Vision
LG C5 vs Samsung S90F: price