The TV market in 2026 is already looking stacked. Every major brand has started showing its cards, and after getting an early look at several new models, it’s clear this year isn’t just about small upgrades. We’re seeing meaningful jumps in brightness, smarter use of Mini LED, and OLED tech getting both better and, in some cases, more affordable.
Which TVs are actually worth waiting for in 2026?
Philips OLED911
Philips seems to have taken what worked last year and pushed it further. The OLED911 uses a newer Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel that should deliver more brightness while handling reflections better. It’s also clearly built with gamers in mind, thanks to four HDMI 2.1 ports that can handle 4K at 165Hz. The audio is another highlight, tuned by Bowers & Wilkins, which means you’re getting a TV that sounds as good as it looks without needing extra speakers right away.
TCL C7L
TCL has been quietly dominating the value-for-money space, and the C7L looks like its next big step. It introduces Super Quantum Dot Mini LED, which should improve brightness and give more control over dimming zones. In simple terms, better contrast and more accurate colours without a flagship price tag. If TCL gets the pricing right again, this could be one of the easiest recommendations of the year.
Samsung S99H / S95H
If design matters to you just as much as picture quality, Samsung is clearly aiming at you with the S99H. The updated QD-OLED panel is expected to be noticeably brighter, and early impressions suggest cleaner colours and smoother gradients. There’s also a rethink of the One Connect setup, with an optional wireless box for a cleaner setup. Wall-mounted, this one almost passes as a piece of art.
Hisense UR8
Hisense is betting big on RGB Mini LED, and the UR8 is where things start getting interesting for regular buyers. Until now, this kind of tech was limited to massive, expensive screens. The UR8 brings it down to more practical sizes and, more importantly, a price that won’t feel out of reach. Expect strong brightness and more vivid colours compared to standard Mini LED TVs.
Panasonic Z86C / Z85C
Panasonic is taking a different approach with the Z86C. Instead of chasing the high-end, it’s focusing on making OLED more accessible. It uses a simplified OLED panel to cut costs, which does mean reflections aren’t handled as well, but in a darker room, that trade-off won’t matter much. You still get the deep blacks OLED is known for, along with solid gaming support through HDMI 2.1 and a 120Hz refresh rate.
All things considered, 2026 feels like a year where you don’t necessarily have to spend big to get a great TV. The high-end models are still pushing boundaries, but the real story might be how quickly the gap is closing for mid-range and even entry-level options.
Also Read: Samsung to sunset its messaging app by July 2026 – Know your options
