TechRadar reviewer highlights top three TVs of 2026 amid OLED and RGB surge

TechRadar's dedicated television tester has released his shortlist of the three best sets he evaluated in 2026, featuring flagship offerings from LG, Sony and Samsung. The selections reflect the rapid evolution of picture technology this year, with each model showcasing distinct strengths that set a new benchmark for home entertainment.

The current cycle has been defined by the emergence of RGB‑enhanced panels and a noticeable lift in OLED brightness, narrowing the gap between premium LED and OLED displays. As manufacturers push the envelope on colour volume and peak luminance, shoppers are faced with a wider array of high‑performance options than ever before.

LG's entry impressed the reviewer with its OLED panel that now reaches brightness levels previously reserved for premium LCDs, while retaining the deep blacks the technology is known for. The TV also delivered precise colour reproduction across the expanded RGB spectrum, making it a strong candidate for both cinema‑style viewing and HDR gaming sessions.

Sony's contender stood out for its sophisticated image‑processing engine, which refined motion handling and upscaled lower‑resolution sources with minimal artifacts. Coupled with a robust acoustic surface system, the set offered an immersive audio‑visual experience that appealed to viewers who prioritize cinematic fidelity in a living‑room setting.

Samsung rounded out the trio with a mini‑LED model that combined exceptional peak brightness with a refined local dimming system, delivering vivid HDR highlights without sacrificing contrast. The TV’s low input lag and variable refresh‑rate support made it a compelling choice for gamers, and both the U.S. and U.K. Amazon Prime Day sales featured notable discounts on the three units.

These recommendations arrive at a pivotal moment for consumers navigating a market where price differentials are narrowing and feature sets are converging. By spotlighting models that excel in distinct categories—brightness, processing power, and gaming performance—the reviewer provides a practical guide for buyers seeking the best fit for their viewing habits.

Looking ahead, the industry is expected to continue refining OLED efficiency and expanding RGB panel adoption, while mini‑LED and emerging micro‑LED technologies promise even higher brightness ceilings. TechRadar’s annual picks will likely evolve alongside these innovations, offering readers a reliable barometer of where premium television performance is headed in the coming years.