Note, if you’re looking for something a little more lightweight – you can also get fitness trackers for children. These can be found in our best fitness trackers for kids guide.

There’s a growing amount of smartwatches out there now that are built specifically for the wrists of children of all ages but there are some good and not-so-good ones. We’ve picked out the best smartwatches for kids that we think are worth considering. So whether you don’t want to dish out a smartphone just yet or you like the idea of some of the safety features that these wearables offer, these are the top children’s smartwatches to take a look at.

What’s the best smartwatch for kids?

We think the Spacetalk Adventurer (buy now) is the best smartwatch for kids. The Adventurer offers a good mix of safety and fun smarts to make it appealing to both kids and parents as well.

Other kids smartwatch recommendations

The best kids’ smartwatches you can buy today:

1. Spacetalk Adventurer

The Spacetalk Adventurer is our favourite full-featured kids’ smartwatch. It can handle taking calls, help parents know their child is safe and there are some smarts to have fun with too.

All of those features are packed into a design that offers some resistance against water with the OLED touchscreen display firmed up with some Gorilla Glass to give it an extra layer of protection. We think it feels pretty well made.

For parents, it can be used as a GPS tracker to monitor the location of the wearer along with creating safe zones they can stay inside of, with 4G connectivity and the ability to send text messages also supported.

For the kids, there’s a 5-megapixel camera to snap pics with, a heart rate monitor and a step counter to keep active, plus a school mode that strips back those features so they can only be distracted by checking in on the time.

2. NickWatch

NickWatch, from everyone’s favourite kids’ brand Nickelodeon, has all the features you’d expect of a connected kids’ smartwatch, including GPS tracking, two-way messaging, calling, and a camera. But, we love about the NickWatch is that it’s plastered with Nickelodeon characters and colourful icons throughout the whole operating system.

Beloved characters such as Spongebob Squarepants, The Loud House and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles star in regularly updated games and promote creativity, independence and physical activity. This, we think, is an amazing feature that will make children actually want to wear the watch.

NickWatch comes equipped with a USB-C cable for charging and two easily changeable velcro watch bands: the grey Simple Strap and the Snazzy Strap printed with Nickelodeon characters. 

3. Vtech Kidizoom Smart Watch D

Vtech’s smartwatch sits at the more fun end of the kids’ watch spectrum and is aimed at users aged 4-12 and comes in your pick of just pink or blue case looks.

That case is only splashproof, so not fit to go for a dip in the water but does host a good-sized, 1.44-inch LCD display that is the touchscreen kind little fingers can prod at.

The fun stuff includes a dual camera to drop effects onto images and videos, playing augmented reality games and being able to personalise watch faces. There’s even some onboard memory for a voice recorder feature.

We are disappointed it lacks big safety features found on other smartwatches but does include the ability to track daily activity if that’s something that’s important to you. Ultimately though, this is a smartwatch that’s a good pick for much younger users who want something on their wrist that has a more playful feel.

4. Apple Watch SE

The Apple Watch SE is primarily designed for adults, but with the addition of Apple’s new Family Setup feature, we think it’s one that can feasibly work for older kids too as opposed to the ones that are still running rings around you.

Using that Family Setup means an adult can let their child use the Watch to receive notifications, make calls and share location, putting some of its typical features off limits in the process.

If you’re worried they might go on an App Store spending spree you can set it up so you have approval on app and game purchases and when they wander to school with it you can set up the Schooltime mode to stop them from being pestered by notifications until they’re out of the school gates at the end of the day.

So they get one of the best smartwatches available and you can keep in control of the big Watch features they’re using and when they’re using them.

5. Xplora X6 Play

Another kids smartwatch that aims to offer plenty of grown-up smartwatch features along with one’s parents can put to good use from afar, the R1 is equipped with 4G/LTE connectivity to handle calls and uses that onboard connectivity along with GPS to locate the position of the wearer and includes a class mode to turn off distracting features.

We like the raised edge design to help protect the display from damage, has a splashproof as opposed to a swim-friendly design and does let you change the straps if they start to get a bit grubby.

You can snap pictures with a 2-megapixel camera, pile on up to 500 songs to turn it into a music player and include fitness tracker smarts to help make sure your little ones are not sitting staring at a screen for most of the day. It’s a good-looking kids’ smartwatch with plenty of strong features that inevitably push the price up.

How to buy the best smartwatch for your child

When buying a smartwatch for your child there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure it’s a suitable and safe choice.

The first and most important thing you want to think about is what age the smartwatch is designed for. Different watches cater to various age groups, with some designed for younger kids with simpler features and others better suited for older children with more advanced capabilities. We’ve included a range to suit all age groups in this list.

Of course, when it comes to children, safety and privacy are paramount. You’ll want to get a smartwatch that prioritises these aspects, ensuring that any data collected is encrypted and stored securely. Robust security measures are crucial to safeguard your child’s information.

While we’re on the topic of privacy, you’ll also want to consider whether the smartwatch you get includes GPS. The inclusion of GPS tracking is useful for parents to locate and keep a digital eye on their children. However, it can also be seen as an invasion of privacy. If you do opt for a watch with GPS, ensure that the tracking features are accurate and reliable.

You’ll also want some form of parental control on the smartwatch. Look for devices that allow you to manage settings, contacts, and other functionalities remotely.

Most kids’ smartwatches also have some form of activity tracking, allowing you to keep an eye on their activity levels and encouraging them to be more active. Smartwatches offer extended capabilities, such as calling and messaging, games, educational apps, and even cameras. If you’re only interested in fitness tracking, then you could consider one of the best fitness trackers for kids instead.

You’ll want the smartwatch to be durable, as many children have active lifestyles (and aren’t very careful when it comes to tech). Durability is key here, opt for a smartwatch that is built to endure rough handling, and has some form of water resistance.

As with all technology, battery life is another essential aspect. The smartwatch should ideally last a few days without needing recharging.

Of course, as children will be using these, ease of use is essential. You’ll want a smartwatch with a user-friendly interface that ensures your child can use the watch’s features without any assistance.

Finally, it’s crucial that the watch is comfortable to wear and fits well, otherwise, your child won’t want to wear it.

Oh, and if you’re shopping for an adult, don’t forget to check out our lists of the best smartwatch overall as well as the best GPS watches.

What age should a child get a smartwatch?

Like many things when it comes to raising children, determining the right age for a child to have a smartwatch depends on several factors. You have to take maturity, features, and parental goals into account. Typically, ages 5-7 might benefit from basic safety features like GPS tracking. Ages 8-10 can handle more functions with parental guidance. Pre-teens aged 11-13 can use more advanced features responsibly.

Consider the child’s maturity level and level of parental supervision when introducing a smartwatch. Younger children need more oversight. Start with basic models and gradually introduce more features. Set clear rules on usage and privacy and regularly monitor their activities.

Ultimately, there’s no definitive age, starting with simpler models and progressing to more complex ones as children mature and demonstrate responsibility is a sensible approach.

But what exactly is an AI PC? What can it do, what hardware powers them, and how can you get your hands on one? Here’s everything you need to know about the newest laptop category.

• Read more: Best lightweight laptop 2024: for work, gaming, and streaming

So what actually is an AI PC?

Imagine a personal computer on steroids. One that’s custom-built to tackle AI and machine learning tasks like a seasoned pro. That’s an AI PC for you. It’s engineered to give those intense number-crunching, data-analysing AI workloads a significant boost. Think of it as a beefed up version of your everyday PC. It’s geared up with the latest in hardware and software to manage everything from generating AI art with programs like Stable Diffusion to running sophisticated AI-driven applications and simulations.

These machines are lot more than just flashy features, though. At its core, an AI PC is designed with a power-packed combination of CPUs and GPUs for multitasking prowess, along with ample RAM and fast storage. But the real magic ingredient is the NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a dedicated processor meant to supercharge AI tasks.

Intel and Microsoft have teamed up to set the standard for AI PCs. They stipulate that these machines must include a CPU, GPU, and NPU. They’ve also introduced a physical Microsoft Copilot key on the keyboard, allowing users to run Copilot locally without needing an internet connection. This setup not only speeds up AI task execution but also enhances security by keeping sensitive data local.

What can you do with one?

The possibilities with an AI PC are as vast as they are exciting. For starters, you can use it to run generative AI programs like Stable Diffusion, which create stunning visuals based on your prompts. Fancy a chat with an intelligent assistant? Local language models will have you covered, providing smarter and quicker responses without needing to ping a cloud server.

For data scientists and analysts, an AI PC is a dream come true. It can offer robust performance for comprehensive data analysis, model training, and running complex simulations. Developers can train AI models more efficiently, while creative professionals can benefit from AI-driven applications for tasks like video editing, background blurring during calls, and even generating content.

But I think the most exciting part of an AI PC is what it can’t do yet. Stay with me here. These machines are being built with the most cutting edge processors for AI. They’re capable of running AI programs that we don’t have yet because they’re still being built. While you may only see a few AI apps you want to run today, this number is only going to increase.

The hardware behind AI PCs

An AI PC isn’t just any regular PC with a fancy label. The hardware is meticulously chosen to cater to the high demands of AI workloads. Let’s break it down:

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the PC, handling general-purpose tasks and coordinating the activities of other components.
• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Originally designed for rendering graphics, the GPU is adept at parallel processing, making it perfect for handling the heavy lifting in AI tasks.
• NPU (Neural Processing Unit): The star of the show, designed specifically for AI workloads. While GPUs can handle AI tasks, NPUs do it more efficiently and with less power consumption.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Ensures smooth multitasking and quick access to data.
• Storage: High-speed SSDs (Solid State Drives) provide the necessary speed for loading and saving large datasets quickly.

Intel and AMD are both major players in this space, with Intel’s Core Ultra and AMD’s Ryzen 8000G series featuring built-in NPUs. Qualcomm is another big hitter, with the new Arm-based Snapdragon X Series. These processors bring AI acceleration to the forefront, enhancing everything from video calls to multi-tasking with AI-boosted software.

• Related: Best AI phones 2024: which smartphone has the best AI features?

There are plenty of gas and charcoal options across a variety of price points, so let’s dive right in, shall we?

What’s the best BBQ in the UK?

We reckon Char-Broil’s Gas2Coal hybrid model (buy now) is one of the best choices for most people, given its ability to use both gas and charcoal for cooking. You can even use gas to quickly and easily ignite the charcoal, making for a much faster all-charcoal experience, if you prefer.

Other BBQ recommendations

The Char-Broil’s Gas2Coal isn’t quite right for you? Fear not, for there are plenty of other grills we recommend:

If you’re looking for a portable BBQ, then check out our guide to the best portable BBQ, too.

The best BBQs in the UK you can buy today:

1. Char-Broil Gas2Coal

If you’re indecisive, then Char-Broil’s hybrid model is one of the best choices for you, thanks to its ability to convert from gas to charcoal in less than 60 seconds. Simply remove the supplied charcoal tray, and cook with regular gas burners if you’re short on time with hungry mouths to feed.

If you’ve got a hankering for old-fashioned charcoal though, load up the tray, and handily light the charcoal with the gas burners themselves — no chimney stacks or lighter materials required. The charcoal tray itself also helps prevent flare-ups, resulting in more even cooking.

Better yet, there’s a built-in side burner for additional cooking powers, along with a warming rack and porcelain-coated cast iron grates for longevity and easy cleaning.

2. Weber Master-Touch

Weber’s Original Kettle charcoal BBQ is one of the most iconic choices and one that will spring to mind for most people. But we’re big fans of the Master-Touch model, which keeps the essence of the Kettle, while serving up a multitude of improvements in the process.

It’s a little taller, for starters, making for a more comfortable grilling experience. The lid is a little deeper too, and can be handily stored in a built-in lid holder, which is an improvement over the original’s lid hook. The addition of Weber’s Gourmet BBQ System grill is another big draw, letting you swap out different modules like pizza stones for more versatility. It’s easy to clean too, thanks to a clever ash sweeping/collection system, and we think the Slate Blue variant, in particular, is rather dashing.

Overall, if you’re a charcoal fan, this is a BBQ that will serve you well for years to come, while looking superb in the process.

3. Landmann Triton MaxX 4.1

Landmann’s capacious four-burner entry has more than enough space to feed large, ravenous groups, with specially designed enamel-coated steel flame tamers to help distribute heat evenly across the grill. A built-in warming rack lets you serve everything at an appropriate temperature at the same time, while a modular cooking system supports extra accessories like pizza stones.

The real star of the show though, is the infrared side burner, which is capable of reaching a blistering 1500°F (800 °C). This makes it an absolute godsend for creating perfectly seared steaks in record time, letting you create perfect outer crusts without over-cooking the insides. Once you’ve tried infrared, you’ll never want to sear on anything else ever again.

4. Blackstone 36-inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle Station

If you’re sold on the wonderful world of flat-top griddles, then you can’t get much better than Blackstone. This huge gas-powered 36in model is one of the best BBQs in the UK, and features more than enough space for feeding smash burgers to a horde of hungry guests — though there’s nothing stopping you from using it for stir-fries, pancakes, eggs, or anything else you require.

Four independent heat zones provide plenty of control over your cooks, while there’s plenty of space on either side for storage/prep. If you find yourself cooking in cast iron skillets, why not cut out the middleman and cook directly on this massive surface instead? You won’t regret it.

5. Royal Gourmet Portable Table Top Gas Grill Griddle

Don’t be put off by the flat-top nature of this griddle. Yes, the lack of bars means no aesthetic grill lines, but it makes up for it in practically every other way. The flat surface means that everything from burgers and sausages, to steaks and vegetables will make full contact with a heated surface, resulting in a much better, more consistent Maillard reaction (aka, the delicious browning that makes food extra delicious).

This also makes it a perfect choice for smash burger fans, who can press down balls of mince to create super-slim and crispy patties for multi-layered burgers bursting with flavour. Throw in the fact that this is easily portable for both backyard and camping use, and it could potentially even replace your dedicated BBQ. Win-win.

6. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050

Masterbuilt’s Gravity Series is aptly named, with the 1050 model featuring a capacious gravity-fed hopper capable of fuelling your cooks for a whopping 12-15 hours of use. Supporting up to 9.9lbs (4.5kg) of lump charcoal or 15.4lbs (7kg) of briquettes, you can enjoy slow-cooked delicacies like brisket and ribs without being chained to your outdoor cooking station.

Cast-iron grates produce perfectly-seared results, while a digital control panel, complete with an accompanying Bluetooth/Wi-Fi controlled app, make keeping an eye on everything a breeze too. With convenient racks and numerous shelves, it’s got everything you need for a hassle-free backyard cookout.

7. Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill

This capacious, affordable charcoal grill features ample cooking space, along with porcelain-enamelled steel cooking grates for durability and performance. A built-in thermometer provides an easy way to keep an eye on the temperature at a glance, while a height-adjustable charcoal pan allows for quick and easy control over the level of cooking heat.

If that wasn’t enough, it also has a useful built-in offset smoker, complete with its own lid, letting you smoke anything from meat to vegetable side dishes for an extra dash of BBQ goodness. An included cover, utensil hooks, and a smoke stack, round off the features rather nicely. Plenty for your money, at this price.

8. Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Hub charcoal BBQ

If a BBQ has world-renowned chef Heston Blumenthal’s seal of approval, it’s not going to be cheap. Or ordinary. And the charcoal-fuelled Hub BBQ makes good on both.

Hefty price tag aside, you’re clearly getting something that’s far more refined than your average heap of industrialised, functional metal. With sharp lines, rounded corners, and angular legs, it’s as much a design talking point as it is a food-searing powerhouse.

On that note, it’s a heck of a performer too, managing to stand out from the rest of the competition with its built-in rotisserie system. From succulent chicken to mouth-watering pork, the possibilities for both taste and visual theatre are endless. And if you require something a little easier, there’s an electric-powered version too.

9. Tepro Grillwagen Toronto

While Tepro’s Grillwagen is lacking in the brand recognition department, it more than makes up for it with excellent bang for your buck. The cheapest offering on our list, this is a charcoal BBQ that offers plenty to love, including a speedy assembly time of just 30 minutes.

A generous grilling area is made even better by a built-in warming rack and handy ash collection tray, while a Grid in Grid system lets you pop in modular accessories like pizza stones if you wish to mix things up.

The best part, though, is a built-in handle that can be turned to raise and lower the coals, letting you change the intensity of the heat to achieve the perfect finish. If you’ve ever suffered from burnt buns or overly sizzled sausages in the past, this will be a particularly useful defence mechanism.

10. LotusGrill XXL

If you fancy that delicious charcoal flavour without the pesky smoke, then LotusGrill’s clever grill should be your first choice. Its built-in battery-powered fans not only help your coals come to temperature in a blistering five minutes, but the extra aeration they provide also results in far less smoke than a regular charcoal BBQ.

You can even adjust the speed of the fans to control the temperature, and the generous grill size of the XXL model should be good enough to feed around 20 people. It looks the part too, with a range of eye-catching colours and a UFO-like design.

Its closed-container nature also reduces the risks of flying sparks and escaping embers, providing extra peace of mind if you’re surrounded by curious pets and inquisitive toddlers.

11. Char-Broil Kettleman

Char-Broil’s answer to Weber’s iconic kettle BBQ is far from a mere shape-inspired copy. Thanks to some clever design features, it promises to do more with less charcoal. In other words, you can cut back on how much charcoal you use per cook, while getting more heat out of it. Neat.

The first of these clever design tricks is the 360-degree air inlet holes that surround the main body of the BBQ itself, letting plenty of oxygen get sucked in to fuel those flames at all times. Not only that, but the Kettleman also has Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared tech, which prevents flare-ups for more evenly cooked food.

This not only creates an even temperature across the entire grill surface, but the end result also provides juicier food than normal. Up to 50 per cent juicer, in fact, according to Char-Broil. Consider us sold.

12. Weber Genesis EPX-335

After the Lambo of gas grills? Look no further than Weber’s eye-wateringly expensive Genesis. Featuring three gas burners and an extra large sear zone, it also has an expandable top cooking grate for simultaneous grilling, letting you whip up mains and sides at the same time.

Its biggest trick though, lies in its smart real-time food temperature monitoring, which lets you keep an eye on internal meat temperatures remotely via your smartphone, letting you achieve perfectly delicious results without any guesswork involved.

Compatible with Weber’s Gourmet Barbecue System, you can add additional accessories as you see fit, and it even has built-in illumination, for night-time grilling sessions. With an extra side burner, generous side shelves, hooks, and a spacious cabinet, it’s practically an outdoor kitchen in its own right.

Is a charcoal BBQ or a gas BBQ better?

Choosing between a charcoal barbeque and a gas barbeque depends on several factors, we’ll go through them all below.

In terms of taste, a charcoal BBQ generally provides a smoky flavour that many grill enthusiasts love. The high heat and smoky aroma from the burning charcoal can enhance the taste of grilled foods significantly. On the other hand, while a gas BBQ may not impart the same intense smoky flavour, it can still produce delicious grilled food. Some gas grills even come with smoker boxes to add a hint of smokiness, though it may not be as pronounced as with charcoal.

Convenience is another major consideration. Charcoal barbeques take longer to heat up and require more effort to maintain a consistent temperature. Additionally, cleaning up ash and disposing of charcoal can be more time-consuming. In contrast, gas barbeques are quick to start and offer easy temperature control, making them more convenient for quick grilling sessions. Cleaning a gas BBQ is generally easier as well, with no ash to dispose of.

When it comes to cost, charcoal BBQs are typically less expensive upfront than gas grills. However, the ongoing cost of charcoal can add up over time, whereas gas can be more economical in the long run, as propane or natural gas is generally cheaper and more efficient than buying charcoal regularly.

When considering environmental impact, charcoal BBQs produce more carbon emissions and particulate matter, contributing to air pollution. Charcoal production also involves deforestation and can be less sustainable. Gas BBQs burn cleaner than charcoal, producing fewer emissions and making them a more environmentally friendly option.

In terms of versatility, charcoal grills offer higher cooking temperatures, which can be better for searing meat. They also allow for different cooking methods, such as direct and indirect grilling. Gas grills, however, provide precise temperature control and often come with additional features like side burners and rotisserie attachments, enhancing their versatility.

Ultimately, if you prioritize flavour and don’t mind spending extra time on preparation and cleanup, a charcoal barbeque might be the better choice. However, if you value convenience, ease of use, and a cleaner-burning option, a gas barbeque would be more suitable.

Now check out the best camping accessories.

Today, you can buy cracking handsets that are nigh-on inseparable from smartphones that cost twice as much, covering almost all of your needs without bleeding your wallet dry. From premium builds to nippy performance, all-day battery life, and even decent cameras, there are plenty of handsets out there that more than nail the basics, while capable of serving you well for years to come.

What is the best mid-range smartphone?

We think the Google Pixel 8a (buy now) is the best mid-range smartphone you can buy. It’s the latest phone in Google’s more affordable ‘a’ series. You’ll love its impeccable camera skills, punchy performance, minimalist Pixel design and pure Android experience.

Other mid-range smartphone recommendations

The best mid-range phone you can buy today:

1. Google Pixel 8a

The Pixel 8a is part of Google’s affordable ‘A’ series, which promises a similar Pixel experience to its more expensive siblings for less money. We think this makes it a superb bang-for-buck option. And there’s lots to love here.

From its impeccable camera skills and punchy performance to a minimalist Pixel design and pure Android experience, this could be the ultimate choice for Google fans. Previous Pixel A phones had a few specs that lagged behind some of the competition, but the latest 8a has fixed that, making it unquestionably the best mid-range smartphone around.

Okay, the charging speeds remain slightly behind rivals, and not all AI features are available to buyers in the UK and Europe, but unless you’re willing to spend nearly double the money on a flagship with even more versatile cameras, the Pixel 8a is everything you’ll ever need.

• Read more: Google Pixel 8a review

2. Apple iPhone SE (2022)

The new iPhone SE (aka the iPhone SE 3, released in 2022) is one of the best-value iPhones ever made. While it looks seriously old-fashioned by today’s standards thanks to its home button and thick bezels, it more than makes up for it on the inside — despite costing less than half the price of the iPhone 13, it’s still rocking the same incredibly powerful A15 Bionic processor.

If you prefer dinkier screens for easy one-handed use, then its 4.7in LCD display (sadly not OLED) will be an absolute joy to use, banishing over-stretched thumbs for good. If you don’t mind the fact that it’s only got a single camera, smaller battery, and no Face ID smarts, then this should definitely be a consideration for Apple fans on a budget. Is it the best affordable mobile on sale? No siree – but it is the best mid-range Apple one.

• Best iPhone: every Apple phone compared

3. Nothing Phone 2

Don’t be fooled by the see-through shell: the Nothing Phone 2 is no gimmick. Sure, the transparent design and lighting strips do plenty to catch the eye, but there’s also one of the best mid-range smartphone models on sale lurking beneath the surface.

The 6.7in OLED display punches above its weight, while the construction materials give it the feel of a more premium device. The CPU is last year’s flagship, so plenty potent: running Nothing’s minimalist take on Android 13, it operates very smoothly in day-to-day use, with no noticeable slowdowns.

Battery life is much improved over Phone 1, and while the revised rear camera hardware can’t dislodge Google as the best snapper going under £600, it still shows meaningful gains over Nothing’s debut effort. If you’re keen on a genuinely refreshing take on the affordable smartphone formula, Phone 2 should sit near the top of your list.

• Read more: Nothing Phone 2 review

4. Red Magic 8 Pro

Searching for an excellent value gaming phone? Your answer is the RedMagic 8 Pro. For a reasonable mid-range sum, you’re getting Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 power and 256GB storage, along with a seriously geeky, fit-for-purpose UI that’s perfect for gamers and tinkerers alike.

We particularly loved its large, uninterrupted near-bezel-less display in our review, along with its transparent back that offers something different from the norm. And while its camera won’t deliver best-in-class performance, it’s hard to argue with its overall features at this price — making it a great choice for the overall best mid-range smartphone as well as the best mid-ranger gaming phone.

• Read more: Red Magic Pro 8 review

5. Motorola Moto G82

Hitting the price-performance sweet spot, the Moto G82 is a welcome reminder that Motorola knows how to nail a keenly priced all-rounder. A surefire steal of a smartphone, it packs a superb OLED panel with high refresh rates, a giant 5000mAh battery and an optically stabilised 50MP main camera – all specs you’d expect to find in handsets costing a good chunk more.

It’s not the last word in performance for the money, and you can get more power for not much more cash. But Motorola’s marvellously minimalist take on Android runs bloat-free and briskly enough, while 30W charging means a full refuel in an hour. Provided you don’t need the option to record 4K video, you’re getting a lot of smartphone here for your readies.

• Read more: Motorola Moto G82 review

6. OnePlus Nord 2T 5G

The OnePlus Nord 2T 5G might have a horrifically convoluted name, but it more than makes up for it with a beautiful, premium design, bolstered by quality specs and performance in all the right places. Slathered front and back in gorilla glass, it’s available in grey or a head-turning Jade Fog finish, making it one of the best looking mid-range handsets money can buy.

Ready for super-fast 5G, it’s powered by MediaTek’s powerful Dimensity 1300 processor, which has made a name for itself as one of the best mid-range CPUs currently available. It’s got a triple-camera setup too, though its main snapper will be the one that gets the majority of the legwork done.

Throw in speedy Google, Samsung and Apple-trouncing 80W fast charging, a 90Hz AMOLED display, and a dual-SIM slot for extra flexibility, and you’ve got one of the top mid-range Android picks around.

• Read more: OnePlus Nord 2T review

7. Poco X5 Pro

A better budget gaming phone than its forebear, with a UI that runs delightfully smoothly – not always a given when talking this sort of cash. The Poco X5 Pro is also thinner and lighter than the phone that came before, and brings back great battery life (and fast charging).

Adding 4K video recording is welcome, but there haven’t been too many meaningful updates to the camera hardware, so this isn’t the phone for photographers with tight purse strings.

The screen doesn’t get quite as bright as the X4 Pro, and the weird-feeling plastic back won’t be to all tastes. But ultimately it doesn’t make you feel like you’re compromising in too many areas, so find one at the right price and it’s still a good buy.

• Read more: Poco 5 Pro review

8. Realme 9 Pro+

The Realme 9 Pro+ might just be the best overall choice for most people searching for the best mid-range smartphone (unless, of course, you’re after an iPhone).

Its primary selling points are a 90Hz OLED display, and a best-in-class main camera that genuinely goes toe to toe with premium flagships come day or night. It can even shoot HEIF 10-bit photos like the iPhone 13 Pro, for smoother gradients and colours for enthusiasts to work their editing magic. Its digital zoom isn’t too shabby either, and the same goes for its 8MP ultra-wide snapper.

As usual, the third macro camera isn’t really worth using more than a few times for experimentation, but given the imaging quality elsewhere, that’s fine by us. Powerful enough for smooth gaming with 60W charging thrown in for good measure, this is one of the best mid-range handsets currently available, at a borderline budget price tag.

• Read more: Realme 9 Pro+ review

9. Honor Magic 5 Lite

One of those phones for people who spend more time in Google Chrome than Call of Duty, the Honor Magic 5 Lite is a great-looking handset that sticks with a modestly mid-range CPU in order to go big in other areas, like its screen. A 6.67in AMOLED is a treat for the eyes, especially at 120Hz, and the 5100mAh battery is capable of excellent longevity away from the mains.

While its secondary snappers don’t add a whole lot of value, the main sensor does a decent job of justifying the price. The super slim dimensions, glass rear and choice of head-turning colours are what give the Magic 5 Lite its strongest appeal, so if you like your tech to make a design statement, it’s a great choice.

• Read more: Honor Magic 5 Lite review

How to choose the best mid-range smartphone for you

Choosing the best mid-range smartphone is a lot like choosing the best smartphone, but if you’re reading this then you’ve already defined a budget of between $450/£450 and $650/£650. If that’s still too much money, then you should check out Stuff’s guide to the best cheap smartphones.

These affordable mobiles tend to offer a good balance between features and affordability. You may miss out on some headline features, such as a super-zoom camera or massive OLED display, but if you want a phone that’s brilliant at the basics without anything flashy, then these are perfect for you.

As we mentioned in the introduction as well, performance shouldn’t be an issue, with mid-range processors from reputable brands like Qualcomm Snapdragon and MediaTek performing much better than they used to.

In terms of display, you should be looking for smartphones with at least Full HD (1080p) resolution and an IPS or AMOLED panel for vibrant colours and good viewing angles.

Despite being mid-range, you can expect a decent camera with multiple lenses and sensors (although, it may not be market-leading). You can look for features like optical image stabilization (OIS) or night mode.

If you’re looking for more specific buying recommendations, then you can check out Stuff’s guides to the best smartphone for gaming, the best smartphones for photography, and the best Android phones.

Netflix is absolutely stacked with documentaries. Some of which are fantastic and many of which are little more than schlocky trash TV. But fear not. We’ve picked through the detritus to bring you our definitive list of the best pieces of fact-based film and TV on the streaming service.

• Best streaming service for the US: all the top platforms compared

Whether you’re interested in towering sporting achievement, tech history, true crime or culinary exploration, there’s something here for you.

Now, Microsoft has announced the next step on the journey that began with that single key, the Copilot+ PC. It makes a small change to the way we think of our computers. By that, we mean the software now defines the hardware, instead of the other way around. But it may leave some feeling left out – especially if you’ve bought a new laptop recently.

What is a Copilot+ PC?

According to Microsoft, “Copilot+ PCs are the fastest, most intelligent Windows PCs ever built,” which sounds like the sort of thing that’s been said every time a new PC line has been launched dating back to the ‘90s. But underneath their casings, something has changed in this new generation of personal computers. Alongside the CPU, GPU, RAM, SSD and other TLAs that make up the modern PC, there’s a new one: NPU. This stands for Neural Processing Unit. They’re for accelerating AI applications locally on the PC, instead of offloading the workload to a cloud server somewhere, which is slower and has privacy concerns.

Where will I find it?

The first PCs to be announced for the Copilot+ standard all use Qualcomm Snapdragon X series CPUs, a totally different architecture from the Intel Core and AMD Ryzen chips we’re used to. It mirrors what Apple did with its M-series chips, breaking from Intel and using the ARM architecture, more commonly seen in phones and tablets, in pursuit of both performance gains and longer battery life. It worked for Apple, so it could do equally well for the PC. This is especially true as claims are being made that the new Qualcomm chips are even better than Apple’s designs.

• What is Microsoft Copilot? The AI assistant for Windows and 365 explained

Apart from the new chip and the extra key on the keyboard, the big changes come in the software. Microsoft is baking its AI into just about every aspect of Windows, and other software creators are following suit.

What this switch in PC architecture means is that, if you’ve bought a PC with an AMD or Intel chip recently, it might not get the update to the Copilot+ standard. Companies such as HP and Acer are already announcing their Copilot+ PCs. So, the next computer you buy could well support the new tech. All of the devices shown at the time of writing have been laptops or two-in-one devices, but the desktop PC is unlikely to get left behind.

How does it work?

So you’ve got your new PC, and the new version of Windows. Then what? Well, there will be some AI-powered image creation and editing tools built right into the OS. Plus, there’s the ability to adjust the lighting or add creative filters to video calls. This includes the illusion of maintaining eye contact with the camera even though you’re looking elsewhere. Nvidia Broadcast can already do this last one, but requires one of the company’s GPUs to run and can look a bit uncanny in use, so it will be interesting to see if the Copilot+ version appears more natural.

Then there’s Cocreator, a drawing app that generates artwork from your initial sketches. And you will be able to generate live captions for any media you’re playing. Windows claims that it can translate more than 40 languages to English subtitles instantly. This is all without having to use the cloud.

Recall

The big announcement, however, has to be Recall. This appears to be a massive, searchable history of everything you’ve done with your PC, including voice chats, web searches, documents and emails. It allows you to go back to something you were doing months ago and have half forgotten about, either by scrolling through the timeline or by searching using object recognition or keywords.

AI smarts are also going to become more prevalent in other applications. Companies such as Adobe are already integrating it into the likes of Photoshop. It’s also beginning to appear in apps like the pro video editing tool DaVinci Resolve, music app djay Pro, and animation programs such as Cephable. In many cases, it takes over time-consuming jobs such as accurately selecting objects in images and video so that they can be removed or manipulated. As the number of AI PCs out there increases, so the apps that take advantage of them, and the things they can do, will multiply.

Do I really need one?

Probably not right now. Especially if you’re content with the way your current PC works. But they’re going to become hard to avoid. Apple’s experience with the M chips in its MacBooks and other computers has shown that the energy-efficient new processors leave nothing behind when it comes to crunching through data. The extended battery life you get from them is nother great bonus in a portable machine.

• Apple’s MacBook Air M3 shows the AI PC isn’t just for Windows

Microsoft has tried this sort of thing before. It tried to reinvent Windows 98 so that it worked more like the web, with an Active Desktop full of web content and a single click to open folders and applications. But it didn’t catch on. This is why you still have a background image and double click on things today, but with AI set to revolutionise the world of computing just as the easy communication capabilities of the internet did, even if we’re still not completely sure what shape that revolution will take, these new PCs look like a big first step into that world.

Like Netflix, Amazon is constantly adding fresh eyeball fodder to its streaming library, so much so that it can be difficult to keep up with all the new stuff. So, as we do with Netflix each month, we’ve decided to dedicate a regularly-updated article to what’s new – as long as we deem it worth watching, of course. This extends to Freevee (Amazon’s ad-supported free-to-view channel) too.

Looking for the latest thing to stream? Read on, and allow us to guide you through all the best recent additions. And why not check all these out with a free 30-day trial of Amazon Prime Video here.

Note: the newest stuff is at the top of the list, with material getting progressively older as you scroll down.

• Also check out: The best streaming devices

A VPN can help you surf safely and anonymously whether you’re watching sports or streaming on Netflix and other services.

What’s the best free VPN service?

1. Proton VPN Free

We think Proton’s free VPN service is one of the best around. One of its biggest selling points is the fact that it has no data limits, which means you never have to worry about hitting any pesky caps. Despite being free, it also offers key features like a kill switch (your connection drops if the VPN service goes down so you’re not left unprotected), and the superior WireGuard VPN protocol.

Obviously, you’re going to have some limitations. In this instance, you only have access to three locations — the USA, Netherlands and Japan. And while you can install Proton VPN on as many devices as you like, you can only connect to one at a time if you’re using the free package. Still, considering it’s one of the fastest VPN services around (even on the free tier), there’s very little to complain about here, as long as the limited country choice doesn’t affect your specific use case.

• View the latest Proton VPN Free deals

2. PrivadoVPN Free

While PrivadoVPN can’t match Proton VPN’s unlimited data allowance, it still offers a respectable 10GB monthly limit. We find this should be enough for more casual use on, say, a smartphone, but even if you do reach the maximum amount, you can still use an emergency server to get online. Sure, the latter is limited solely to the Netherlands with a crawling speed of just 1Mbps, but it’s better than nothing.

When you’re within the data limit, you have a generous choice of thirteen locations to choose from, with speedy 350Mbps connectivity to boot. The best part, though, is the fact that you can use the free version to unblock streaming services, including Netflix USA, Prime Video, Disney+, and more.

• View the latest Privado VPN Free deals

3. Windscribe Free

Windscribe stands out from the crowd in a few key areas. While it has the common 10GB monthly cap, you can install and use it on more than one device, which is a feature that many other free alternatives lack. We appreciate that you have the choice of 11 different countries as well, which is more generous than most.

Overall, it’s definitely worth considering — especially if you’re after light use across different devices like phones and tablets. Just be wary of that strict 10GB cap, and you’ll be good to go.

• View the latest Windscribe Free deals

4. Atlas VPN Free

While its 10GB monthly data allowance is decent enough, its Atlas VPNs Mac-specific allowance that really shines. If you’re a Mac user, like us, you can take advantage of a whopping 2GB per day, making Atlas VPN one of the most competitive free VPNs around.

There are, of course, some catches — namely the limit to just two countries (the Netherlands and the USA). Still, you can connect two devices simultaneously, and the speeds are far from shabby. While streaming site unblocking isn’t officially supported, some people have tried their luck and found success, so it could be worth a shot. Not that we condone that, mind.

• View the latest Atlas VPN Free deals

5. Hotspot Shield Basic VPN

Hotspot Shield’s free VPN service offers an unmatched unlimited data limit, letting you stream and surf to your heart’s content. There’s one major catch though — you can only connect via one USA-based location, which might be a dealbreaker for some users, depending on their needs.

If that’s not an issue for you though, then it’s hard to beat that glorious unlimited data allowance. If you can also live without a kill switch, then we think this is one of the best free VPN services.

• View the latest Hotspot Shield Basic VPN deals

Best VPN FAQs:

What is a free VPN?

A virtual private network (commonly referred to as VPN), is a powerful tool that enables you to cloak your whereabouts on the web. VPNs work by directing your online traffic through the servers of the VPN provider, which are often located in various parts of the world.

You could, for example, use a VPN service to simulate your presence in the USA, letting you access Netflix content that may not be available in the United Kingdom. While we don’t officially endorse such usage, this is just one example of a common VPN use case.

Additionally, for individuals travelling to certain regions such as China (where access to popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google are restricted), VPNs become indispensable tools, letting you use your preferred apps while helping you stay in touch with people back home.

Are free VPNs safe?

The safety of free VPNs is a significant concern, and the answer isn’t straightforward because it varies based on the provider.

Many free VPN services log user data and may sell this information to third parties. This practice can compromise your privacy, which is the opposite of what a VPN should do.

Free VPNs might not have strong encryption protocols, leaving your data vulnerable to interception.

To generate revenue, many free VPNs display intrusive ads and pop-ups. These ads can be annoying and, in some cases, may lead to malicious websites.

You may also find that free VPN providers may not have the resources or motivation to maintain robust security measures or provide customer support. This lack of accountability can result in a poor and potentially unsafe user experience.

To avoid these potential free VPN pitfalls, read the section below on how to choose the best free VPN, as well as our reviews above.

How to choose the best free VPN

If you’re worried about choosing a free VPN, then follow these steps:

First, you’ll want to look for reviews (like ours above) from reputable sources and user feedback. Investigate whether the VPN provider has a history of privacy violations or security issues.

You will probably also want to read the privacy policy carefully to understand what data the VPN logs and how it is used. A trustworthy VPN should have a clear and transparent privacy policy.

Some well-known, trusted VPN providers (like the ones included Stuff’s best VPN guide) offer limited free versions of their paid services. These options might be safer as they often use the same infrastructure and security protocols as their premium counterparts.

Finally, consider why you actually need a VPN. For basic tasks like bypassing geo-restrictions or casual browsing, some free VPNs might suffice, but for more critical activities, such as handling sensitive information, investing in a reputable paid VPN service is advisable.

Are VPNs illegal?

VPNs are absolutely not illegal (although there are some exceptions in certain countries so it’s always worth checking), and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to anonymise your personal data and internet activity. Still, this doesn’t give you a blanket excuse to then carry out illegal activity, such as the downloading of copyrighted material. This also means that you shouldn’t use a VPN to bypass per-country streaming rights for services such as Netflix.

Can VPNs protect you from viruses and malware?

Short answer? No. Using a VPN to browse anonymously is one thing, but you’re still susceptible to malware and viruses. Stay away from dodgy sites, and practice your usual (hopefully alert) levels of internet safety. In other words, don’t go downloading .exe files willy-nilly.

Will using a VPN make your internet slower?

Any VPN will have the unfortunate effect of slowing down your internet connection, which makes total sense when you think about the extra steps your traffic is taking when passing through various server locations. Still, if you’ve got a reasonably fast internet connection already, then you shouldn’t notice too much of a difference.

Are paid VPNs better than free VPNs?

Paid VPNs will offer more services in exchange for your cash. In most cases, this means that you have a larger selection of countries and locations to choose from, with more supported devices to boot. If you’re planning on light usage though, then one of the best free VPNs should be enough for your needs.

What to watch with a VPN

Want to watch the NBA from outside your own country? You can, with the help of a VPN and our series of ‘how to’ guides. We’ve covered how you can watch NBA, MBL, the Bundesliga and more, wherever you are in the world. Want to know more? Take a look on the links below:

• How to watch NBA basketball
• How to watch Major League Baseball
• How to watch German Bundesliga
• How to watch Spanish LaLiga
• How to watch Italian Serie A
• How to watch MLS football
• How to watch NFL

But what is XDefiant? And is it worth your time? Let’s cover the basics.

What is it?

XDefiant is a free-to-play, first-person arena shooter. Online matches are fast-paced, and the action is frantic. You can play across a range of maps, fire an expanding arsenal of weapons, and compete over several different game modes.

You can choose to play as one of five factions who all have their own unique perks, skills and abilities. The Libertads are revolutionary fighters and medical wizards, while the Phantoms are an elite group of weaponsmiths with great fire power. You can choose to play as the stealthy Echelon factions, the fire loving Cleaners, or cyber attack specialists DedSec.

Wait, is it basically Warzone?

Sort of yes, but with some key differences. Firstly, it’s completely free, but another USP for XDefiant comes in how it is monetized. There are no pay-to-win mechanics in the game. There is gameplay impacting content available to purchase, however this can also be unlocked through challenges.

A number of maps are taken from existing Ubisoft IP. This includes Ghost Recon, Splinter Cell, The Division, Far Cry and DedSec. While unconfirmed, we are hoping that more maps from the Ubisoft back catalogue will be rolled out as time goes on.

How can I play?

If you own a console, you’re pretty much ready to go. XDefiant is currently available to play on PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows and Amazon Luna. Sadly, Nintendo Switch owners will have to go without.

And if you’ve got a blockbuster budget, there’s no shortage of classy gear to transform your movie room. Need help to pick the right panel for your pad? We’ve tested a battalion of big-screen TVs to bring you the best 4K TVs fit for every budget (need to upgrade your audio? Check out the best soundbar too)

What’s the best 4K TV in the UK?

The best cheap 4K TVs:

1. Samsung UE43AU71000

When we go shopping for a new TV, few of us are looking for a flagship model. Buying an entry-level box? Samsung’s AU7100 doesn’t require you to make too many sacrifices.

With detailed, vibrant images, a solid build and a slick interface, the AU7100 represents excellent value – especially if you opt for the 43in version. Its materials might not be the most indulgent, but the AU7100 is flawlessly finished and built to last.

Front and centre is an LCD/LED panel with edge-positioned backlighting. It works best with native 4K content, serving up detailed, realistic images with nuanced tones – especially when there’s HDR10+ dynamic metadata involved. Motion is handled confidently, too. Things only really deteriorate when you drop below 1080p.

Sound from the 20W drivers is better than you might expect, although there’s no low-end punch. As long as you don’t watch lots of vintage content – and you’re not expecting the quality of the audio to match the quality of the pictures – this is one of the best ‘real world’ TVs around.

• Read more: Samsung UE43AU71000 review

2. Hisense A6BG

Hisense knows its stuff when it comes to delivering very good entry-level TVs, and this large 65in offering is an absolute bargain at this price. Serving up 4K resolution with HDR (including Dolby Vision support), there’s also an auto low latency mode for gamers, along with built-in Freeview HD. Oh, and it works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa too.

Naturally, given its price, there are a few compromises. The HDMI ports are 2.0, not 2.1, for starters, and the screen itself had fairly limited viewing angles and can struggle with darker scenes. But there’s a comprehensive selection of streaming apps on offer, and again, there’s not much to complain about at this price.

The perfect choice if you’re looking for something simple, straightforward, and really rather massive.

3. TCL 55C645

The TCL 55C645 gives us 90 percent of the performance we want for a lot less than 90 percent of the price. It’s got the technology, the functionality and the specification of a TV costing three or four times its asking price.

In terms of actual performance, the TCL 55C645 is pretty decent. The colour palette is quite extensive and the colour balance is naturalistic, it manages to keep a solid grip on on-screen movement of all kinds, and, although not an especially bright TV, the white tones it generates are clean and every bit as varied as its black tones

Now of course, you can’t expect perfection when you’re shopping at the entry-level – and sure enough, the TCL 55C645 isn’t perfect, but it gets way more right than it gets wrong, though, and in many ways, it outperforms its asking price to a significant degree.

• Read more: TCL 55C645 review

The best mid-range 4K TVs:

1. Philips 55OLED807

Philips has established itself as a hero of the 4K TV sweet spot, delivering great sets where affordability meets performance. And the 55OLED807 knocks it out of the park again. Nicely designed and robustly built, it shows no signs of corner cutting. Philips has even added some swivel adjustment for easier positioning.

Its feature set doesn’t come up short, either. The 55OLED807 works with every mainstream HDR standard and offers a stack of inputs, including a pair of HDMI 2.1 ports for next-gen console compatibility. Four-sided Ambilight also remains a perfect complement to pictures. We still found setup menus complex and relentless in testing, but the remote at least made it easier to battle through. And the reward is great picture quality in almost every circumstance.

Peak brightness is right up there with the best OLED panels, resulting in incredible contrast, with both white and black tones packed with detail. The colour palette is extensive yet natural, too. Spend time tweaking and you can also achieve smooth, expertly rendered motion. Upscaling is similarly effective and even the 2.1-channel sound system is pretty composed for the set’s size. In short, this is one of the best pound-for-pound TVs around right now.

• Read more: Philips 55OLED807 review

2. Samsung S95B OLED

Samsung’s S95B is incredibly bright for an OLED, although not as bright as any QLED (which is to be expected. Still, it’s bright enough, and colours are beautifully vivid, if not the most realistic. If you’re a stickler for colour accuracy without any tweaking, then you might want to look elsewhere. Most people though, seem to like punchy, saturated colours, and if you’re one of them, then all the more power to you.

Another thing to bear in mind, are the size options available. The S95B has two models: 55in and 65in. If size is key, and you’re after something bigger (or smaller), then you might want to look elsewhere. If it ticks all your boxes though, then you definitely won’t be disappointed.

• Read more: Samsung S95B OLED review

Hisense 65U7KQTUK

Audio or video, it doesn’t matter; you can rely on Hisense to take any expensive new tech and democratise it. Can you think of another TV brand able to combine quantum dot panel technology with MiniLED backlighting and every worthwhile HDR standard in a TV, and then charge less than £1500 for a 65in version? There’s only one brand that can offer that – Hisense.

Treat it to some native 4K content, ideally with an HDR element to it for good measure, and the 65U7KQTUK really impresses. An HDR10-equipped UHD Blu-ray of Christopher Nolan’s borderline-incoherent Tenet, for example, looks an absolute treat.

For an LCD TV, the 65U7KQTUK does really well with black tones, the colour palette is extensive, and it does good work controlling on-screen movement.

A big screen with a big specification but not all that big a price – and given the right stuff to work with, the Hisense 65U7KQTUK turns in a pretty big performance. At least as far as picture quality is concerned, anyway…

• Read more: Hisense 65U7KQTUK review

The best premium 4K TVs:

1. Sony XR-55A80L

In short, the Sony XR-55A80L is a great TV. Subtle, and vibrant, it makes the very best of any content you feed into it. No, it’s not the brightest OLED panel around, but the white tones it creates are clean, and there’s detail and nuance in spades — especially when it comes to accurate colour tones such as those found on skin.

HDR performance is solid, as is motion control, with smooth edge definition too. Combined, all of these attributes result in a beautiful, pleasant viewing experience, bolstered by strong upscaling performance and slick gaming capabilities. You’ll want to upgrade the sound with speakers or a soundbar though, as is the case for most of the picks on our list.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A80L review

2. Sony XR-55A90J

Throwing money at something isn’t always a solution. But in the case of the Sony XR-55A90J OLED, it very much is. Yes, it’s super expensive for a 55in television, but it’s also worth every penny. There’s a lot of cutting-edge tech here: the super-fast and deeply intelligent XR processor is present, with Acoustic Surface Audio+ trickery. Google TV has replaced Android TV, which is a major upgrade. Sony’s exclusive Bravia Core streaming service is included, too.

Performance, as the price demands, is profoundly impressive. The A90J is very bright by OLED standards, so contrasts absolutely pop from the screen. This TV can call on a seemingly limitless array of colours, and easily describe minute differences in shade and texture. It handles on-screen motion with casual effortlessness and can bring detail and subtlety to inky black tones. Plus it also upscales low- resolution content without having a panic attack.

The A90J’s feet can sit low or stand high enough to fit a soundbar beneath, but Sony is so pleased with its in-built audio that it’s fitted speaker binding posts on the back panel, so the entire screen can be the centre channel in a surround-sound setup.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A90J review

3. LG OLED65C3

The LG OLED65C3 has some obvious advantages over the C2 it replaces, not least in its HDR picture processing enhancements and the revision to its UI. Is that enough to tempt C2 owners into a costly upgrade? Probably not. The rest of us, though, can simply be impressed by what is the latest in a long line of high-achieving LG OLED TVs.

From strong gaming and upscaling performance to natural colour balance, true blacks, and wide-ranging contrasts, it’s a joy to behold. As is usually the case though, you’ll want to beef up it stock speakers with some external gear to do justice to the on-screen action.

• Read more: LG OLED65C3 review

4. Sony XR-55A95K

First out of the blocks with a QD-OLED telly, Sony’s A95K promises to combine the advantages of OLED – deep blacks and vivid colours – with the brightness of LCD. In practice, it’s one of the best out-of-the-box TVs you can buy.

All-screen from the front, build quality is everything you’d expect from a premium Sony product. Read: basically flawless. Its feature set is similarly superlative, with two out of four HDMI inputs supporting 4K at 120Hz. Less useful is the Bravia Cam, which attaches magnetically to the top. It will one day adjust settings based on ambient conditions, but for now it’s a glorified webcam.

Like all of Sony’s OLED TVs, the A95K’s screen itself acts as a speaker, reinforced by a couple of rear-firing subs. When it comes to fidelity, detail and outright punch, it can sonically match any TV without a separate speaker bar.

Star of the show, though, is the picture. While it isn’t startlingly brighter than the best non-QD OLEDs, the A95K can generate the most convincing and nuanced brightness of any OLED currently available. Detail is high across the board, colour fidelity is effortlessly natural and depth of field is almost three-dimensional, given the right material. All of which means the A95K is as enjoyable as 4K televisions get right now.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A95K review

The best luxury 4K TVs:

1. Philips 65OLED937

Ever since Philips began collaborating with Bowers & Wilkins for its high-end TV audio systems, the company has set itself apart with high-quality sound, in addition to the brilliant Ambilight feature. In a market where most televisions seem to be far too similar to each other, this has certainly been a refreshing development. Of course, this sort of differentiation doesn’t come cheap. But it’s worth it.

Philips’ gorgeously large eOLDE set delivers both stunning picture quality, and wide, immersive sound, thanks to the aforementioned partnership. A perfect,t high-quality TV for those who want the best experience with minimal faff, it’ll hit your wallet hard, and your eyes and ears even harder. Worth it.

• Read more: Philips 65OLED+937 review

2. LG G2 77in OLED

LG’s long been an OLED pioneer and the G2 is a top-spec telly to cement its reputation. With an upgraded panel, brand-spanking processor and improved heat dissipation, it promises brightness to rival the best LCDs.

LG calls the G2 its “Gallery Edition” for good reason: it’s designed to be wall-mounted. And in 77in guise, it does plenty to justify the framing, as well as the Picasso price tag. Hues are vivd, yet colour accuracy is second to none. Blacks are as inky as you’d expect, while its OLED evo panel is dazzlingly bright. Image clarity is similarly excellent, with clever AI upscaling to make older content look good in 4K. All of which combines to produce a masterpiece and definitely one of the best 4K TV options around.

Besides the occasional bug, LG’s updated webOS interface remains intuitive and clutter-free. A new gaming menu lets you tweak refresh rates, with all four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K at 120fps. The G2’s down-firing speakers also pull off a convincing Atmos experience, simulating virtual surround with decent punch – which you can’t say of many integrated TV speakers.

• Read more: LG G2 77in OLED review

3. Samsung S90C

Samsung’s OLED beast serves up glossy blacks and bright whites to deliver some seriously impressive performance, with plenty of nuance and shade in the tone department. Full HD upscaling is, as expected, formidable, with high details and solid contrasts on offer.

Gamers too, will appreciate the specs on offer here, which include more than enough HDMI 2.1 ports to satisfy multiple consoles, along with a low input lag and 4K 144Hz gaming. That’s pretty impressive for a TV whichever way you slice it, beating other 4K/120Hz sets in the refresh rate department.

Best of all, given the fact that most TV speakers tend to sound rather anaemic, the S90C’s built-in audio hardware actually provides a relatively decent experience — one that’s good enough to stop you from automatically hooking up a soundbar. Not that that would be a bad idea, mind.

• Read more: Samsung S90C review

The best 4K TVs in the US:

1. Samsung S95B

The S95B is one of the best 4K TVs for most people in the US, especially for those already used to (and happy with), Samsung’s TV experience, which includes fancy extras like its cloud Gaming Hub.

Gamers will be able to enjoy 4K, 120Hz gaming, thanks to a generous array of HDMI 2.1 ports, and other features like FreeSync.

Being a QD OLED affair, it offers a brighter viewing experience compared to something like the LG C2 OLED, while its single-stand design makes for convenient placement, even in the larger-screened models.

• Read more: Samsung S95B OLED review

2. Sony Bravia XR A95K

Sony’s A95K set is one of the most expensive 4K TVs around right now, and with good reason. Like Samsung’s excellent S95B, Sony’s offering also offers a stunning, bright QD-OLED screen, but also throws in some additional advantages — namely, support for Dolby Vision HDR, and Dolby DTS:X audio.

These extras, coupled with the A95K’s impeccable colour accuracy for enjoying content like the creator’ intended, make it one of the best premium TVs around. Until its successor lands, that is.

• Read more: Sony XR-55A95K review

3. TCL 5-Series

A Quantum Dot LED TV at this price is nothing to be sniffed at, which is why TCL’s 5-Series is our pick for the best budget 4K TV to buy in the US. With support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and HLG, you’re getting plenty of options for your money too.

HDR performance is, as expected, not the best you’ll find around, and you might find the highlights lacking in particular. Once you remember its comparative price though, it’s easy enough to forgive —

4. LG C2

Despite not having the latest QD OLED tech (and therefore not reaching the same brightness levels offered by the Sony and Samsung offerings on our list), the LG C2 remains one of the best 4K TVs in the US. Plenty bright enough (especially for viewing in dimmer rooms), it offers all the superb blacks and punchy colours that OLED displays are famed for.

Our pick of the range is the 42in model, which is not only easier on your wallet, but also ideal for use as a dual PC monitor/TV setup — especially when you take its more manageable screen size, 4K resolution, HDMI 2.1 support, and 120Hz gaming performance into account.

5. Hisense U8H

Hisense’s U8H is a very solid mid-range offering that serves up a 4K LED screen, powered by Google TV for access to all of your favourite apps and games at the touch of a button. Another win, especially at this price, is support for both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision HDR, which is something that cannot be said of its Samsung rival.

Obviously, given the nature of its LED panel, it can’t compete against the inky blacks and in-your-face immersion offered by OLED alternatives, but it gets plenty bright, with two HDMI 2.1 ports for next-gen gaming at a fluid 120Hz.

How to choose the best 4K TV for you

Buying a television is a big purchase, one that you’ll have to live with for a long time (much longer than a smartphone), so when buying a 4K TV there several crucial factors that should guide your decision-making process.

The first thing you’ll want to consider is the screen size. You need to get a TV that best suits your viewing environment. A larger screen can offer a more immersive experience, but it must fit comfortably within your available space.

There are also plenty of important specs and features you’ll want to look out for, such as HDR, OLED, refresh rates, and viewing angles.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) support is a must when buying a modern television. HDR enhances contrast and colour range, resulting in more vivid and lifelike images. Look for TVs that support popular HDR formats like HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG.

The type of panel is also important. OLED panels tend to offer superior contrast and colour accuracy but may come at a higher price point. LED/LCD TVs, on the other hand, are generally more budget-friendly, but can’t match OLED for contrast and colour accuracy.

The refresh rate is a key specification for reducing motion blur. This is especially important if you’re into gaming or watching fast-paced sports. Higher refresh rates like 120Hz or 240Hz can provide smoother motion.

Viewing angles can be important, especially if you have a wide seating arrangement. OLED TVs typically offer wider viewing angles compared to certain LED/LCD models.

Now, most modern 4K TVs are equipped with smart features, such as built-in streaming apps, voice control, internet connectivity, and the ability to stream content from your smartphone. If you have a favourite streaming service, make sure it’s available on the television before you buy it.

If you own multiple game consoles, media players, set-top boxes and streaming sticks, ensuring you have sufficient ports and connectivity options for your devices is crucial. You want to aim for around four HDMI ports, and if you plan to use your TV for gaming with next-gen consoles, make sure these ports have HDMI 2.1 support.

The TV’s audio quality should not be overlooked. While some 4K TVs have better built-in speakers than others, if you’re really serious about audio you’ll want to upgrade to an external sound system, like soundbars or home theater systems.

Finally, it’s important to note that design and aesthetics matter too. You’ll want a TV that fits well with your room’s decor. Slim bezels and sleek designs are popular choices, while you can now also get televisions that look like paintings when in standby mode.

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