It can be challenging to find the best 43 inch TV for yourself out of the best TVs on the market, but a little research will make it easier. A 43 inch TV is a perfect choice if you’re looking to upgrade your screen size without moving on to something too large and will work well in a mid-sized living room or similar space.
The best 43 inch TVs will offer smart functionality, support for 4K resolution and HDR, and you’ll also find stunning LED and QLED displays in this size. Not to mention, these TVs will come with several connectivity ports, so you can connect your gaming console or laptop for a big screen adventure.
In this article, we look at what 43 inch TVs are, their pros and cons, how long they last, and other aspects. Keep reading to learn more about choosing the best 43 inch TV for yourself.
Top 43 Inch TVs
#1 Insignia NS-43DF710NA21 43-inch Fire TV
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Fire TV platform on this TV provides a wide range of streaming content, ensuring that owners will always be able to find a source of entertainment.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Expansive range of content on the Fire TV platform
- Great sound
- Support for voice control
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- No advanced features for gaming
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Insignia NS-43DF710NA21 is a mid-range 4K TV that promises to deliver breathtaking Ultra HD picture quality and boasts over 8 million pixels for vivid imagery. It comes with a decent 4000:1 contrast ratio for deep dark blacks and DTS Studio Sound audio processing technology to ensure that users enjoy accurate sound. Its built-in Fire TV platform offers users the option to stream over 1 million movie titles and TV shows without making any payments. Still, unfortunately, it doesn’t have any advanced features that support gaming.
Integration with Smart Home appliances is pretty easy to do, so users will also be able to issue commands through their voice or use Alexa on their TV to perform specific tasks. Owners will also be able to access other streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Instant Video, and with support for HDR content, movies and TV shows appear nearly lifelike with fantastic clarity.
#2 Samsung AU8000 43-inch LED UHD 8 Series TV
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This TV’s minimalist design makes it the perfect pick for users who value a clean, elegant look, and with its impressive color handling capability, users will be able to enjoy rich and vivid imagery.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Excellent handling of fast-moving content
- Thin, minimalist design
- Impressive color reproduction
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Low refresh rate doesn’t make it ideal for competitive gaming
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Samsung AU8000 is a 4K TV that uses LED technology and Dynamic Crystal Color to deliver stunning visuals and a Crystal Processor 4K to produce life-like images. The TV handles fast-moving content exceptionally well thanks to its proprietary Motion Xcelerator technology, and with close to more than 150 subscription-free channels available through its Samsung TV Plus content service, there will be a wide range of free content to choose from. However, its native 60Hz refresh rate doesn’t make it smooth enough for competitive gaming.
With built-in support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, owners will be able to control the AU8000 with their voice easily, and thanks to its Motion Xcelerator technology, users will be able to catch all the action between fast-moving scenes. The TV’s ultra-thin profile adds to its elegant appeal, and its Slim Fit Wall-Mount ensures that it remains flush to the wall when mounted.
#3 TCL 43S434 43-inch Class 4 Series TV
Award: BEST FOR CONTENT STREAMING
WHY WE LIKE IT: As an entry-level display, this TV offers a decent array of features that users who would only want to stream content would find very appealing
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Exceptional upscaling of sub-4K content
- Wide range of streaming apps and content available
- VESA Wall Mount compatible
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- No support for VRR
- Noticeable motion blur
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The TCL 43-inch TV is an entry-level option that promises to dazzle with its 4K resolution, decent reflection handling when placed in bright settings, and an impressive contrast ratio for delivering deep blacks. The TV handles HDR content very well, making it perfect for streaming content in rich color. However, gamers might shun it due to a lack of VRR support and motion blur.
Users will also appreciate the wide range of streaming apps available on the TV’s Android platform, as well as the 700,000+ movie titles and shows that they’ll have access to, and the fact that lower resolution content is upscaled to 4K pretty satisfactorily. The TV also features Chromecast built-in, so owners will also be able to cast media files from their devices and enjoy viewing them on a larger screen.
#4 Toshiba 43C350KU 43-inch C3 Series TV
Award: BEST FOR PICTURE QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This TV’s sound technology adapts to the activity happening on screen and enhances the audio for a better listening experience, while its 4K engine delivers stunning picture quality.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Excellent audio experience
- Wide range of content on Fire TV Platform
- Great picture quality
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Not suitable for gaming
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Toshiba C3 43-inch TV is a 4K resolution TV that relies on its Regza Engine 4K to produce stunning picture quality. The display ensures that owners will be able to enjoy an immersive audio experience courtesy of its DTS Virtual:X technology, and through the use of cinematic technologies such as Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10, owners will be able to enjoy an exquisite home theater experience. It doesn’t have any advanced gaming features, so players might do well to consider other options.
Despite that, the display’s Fire TV platform is pretty easy to navigate, and it also provides a wide selection of content from both free and paid sources. Its wide viewing angles also make it pretty easy to view in a group setting, and with decent reflection handling, the TV maintains a good level of visibility even when placed in brightly lit settings.
#5 Sony X80J 43-inch Ultra HD LED TV
Award: BEST FOR CASUAL VIEWING
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is an entry-level TV that boasts Full HD picture quality and great sound for casual viewing. It also features wide viewing angles, and support for HDR content.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Excellent sound quality
- Superb motion handling
- Support for VESA wall mounting
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Not ideal for dark room viewing
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Sony X80J is an entry level 4K UHD TV that delivers great picture quality and decent clarity for casual viewing. It also boasts impressive sound quality and features a handy USB port on its rear that users will be able to use to connect & play content from external devices. It also allows for voice control since it is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and has a great balance contrast that produces deep blacks and bright whites.However, it is not ideal for viewing in a dark room.
The X80J relies on Triluminos technology to produce rich and vivid color, and is also capable of upscaling lower resolution content to 4K quality for a better viewing experience. . It also comes with a HDMI port for High Definition Audio and Video, and with support for VESA mounting, users will also be able to have it mounted on a wall instead of being placed on a stand.
#6 Sceptre 43-inch 1080P LED TV
Award: BEST FOR LOW ENERGY CONSUMPTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This TV does not require a lot of energy to run and is also adept at handling fast-motion scenes.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Great motion handling
- VESA Wall Mount ready
- Energy Star Rating
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Not ideal for gaming or HD content
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The 43-inch Sceptre TV is an LED display that features a Full HD 1080p resolution for crystal clear content. Owners will be able to stream content from a compatible smartphone or tablet by connecting the two through the TV’s Mobile High Definition Link feature. It comes with an Energy Star certification from the US Department of Energy, so owners can rest assured that the TV will not lead to any sudden spikes in the electricity bill. Despite this, gamers might still not be impressed, as the TV has no advanced features to support such.
Its motion handling is perfect given the use of its Motion Estimation and Motion Compensation technology, and since it is VESA Wall mount ready, owners should have a very easy time mounting it on a wall. It also features different options for surround sound connectivity, such as an optical audio output, a 3.5mm auxiliary output, and a HDMI ARC through HDMI connection.
What is a 43 Inch TV?
A 43 inch TV is a television that’s 43 inches wide diagonally. They come with support for Full HD or 4K resolution, and you’ll find some models with built-in internet functionality. Because you can view a 43 inch TV comfortably from a 6 to 8-foot distance, you’ll generally want to use a model of this size in a medium-sized living room.
43 Inch TVs vs Other TVs
A 43 inch screen size TV is similar to other TVs in displaying images. The primary difference is simply in terms of size. A TV this size will be too large for smaller spaces, like kitchens or dorm rooms, but would work well in an apartment living room.
Another thing that sets these televisions apart from larger models is that you will not find an OLED TV in the 43-inch size, but you will find LCD, LED, and QLED models that support Full HD and 4K resolution. If you’re looking for 8K resolution, you’ll have to go with a bigger unit, although, at the time of publishing, you won’t find much in the way of 8K content to watch.
Like other models, TVs in this size range also support multi-HDR and Dolby Vision. However, they still lack some of the more advanced features that you can find on larger televisions, like a 55-inch model. Still, many 43 inch models sport smart features and Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, Android TV, or Roku TV capabilities.
How a 43 Inch TV Works
Like other televisions, a 43 inch TV converts electrical signals into pictures and sounds and displays them on the screen. If it’s a smart TV, it’ll have an integrated operating system that lets you use internet-based content. This means there won’t be a need to connect additional streaming devices, like the Amazon Fire Stick or Chromecast.
A smart TV connects to a Wi-Fi network, similar to how you connect to Wi-Fi with your laptop or smartphone, and comes loaded with streaming applications. For example, Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime are typical examples of preloaded apps.
If you choose a dumb TV, these models come without built-in internet functionality. So, if you want to watch streaming content, you’ll need to connect a streaming device, like Roku. Just make sure it has the right connectivity options, such as HDMI and USB ports.
Why should you buy a 43 Inch TV?
If you’re looking for an upgrade that won’t clutter your space but provides a great viewing experience, a 43-inch TV is a solid choice. As mentioned, they’re perfect for a mid-sized living room. Let’s look at some reasons why it’s worth buying and why you’ll want to avoid it.
Are 43 Inch TVs Worth Buying?
- You Want a Stunning Visual Experience: Bigger TVs offer deeper immersion and a better overall viewing experience. If visuals are your priority, a 43 inch TV will be a good place to start.
- You Want Advanced Display Technology and 4K: A 43 inch TV can have advanced display technology, like QLED, and can also have support for 4K resolution and HDR.
Why a 43 Inch TV May Not Be for You
- You Want a Bigger TV: If you’ll be seated around 6 feet away from the TV, a 43 inch display should be fine. But if the distance is more than that, consider a 50 inch tv or something bigger.
- You Don’t Have the Budget: The cost increases as you go up the size chart. If you’re on a tight budget, check out smaller TVs, like the best 40 inch tv or a 32 inch TV.
How Long Will a 43 Inch TV Last?
The longevity of a TV depends on its quality, how well it’s maintained, how much it’s used, and importantly, its display technology.
While an LCD TV offers around 50,000 to 60,000 hours of viewing and can last you for nearly two decades, it’s likely to malfunction earlier due to other reasons.
At maximum or near-maximum brightness, LED TVs have a lifespan between 40,000 and 100,000 hours. Even with heavy use, you can expect these TVs to work well for at least 5 to 7 years, and over a decade with moderate or low usage. Beyond that period, you may notice a decrease in image quality.
OLED TVs perform better than LED TVs, but since the material used in the construction of these panels is organic, they have a limited lifespan. After using these TVs at optimal settings for 8 to 10 years, they will decrease in performance and image quality.
QLED TVs rely on quantum light-emitting diodes to massively boost the colors and the brightness of visuals on the screen. Since it’s not based on organic materials, QLED doesn’t degrade over time and provides impressive picture quality that lasts longer than most other display technology. At max settings, you should get 7 to 10 years out of QLEDs without any degradation in visual quality.
QLED TVs are also known to not be subject to burn-in, so they’ll offer you the best viewing experience over the long run since you won’t have to worry about static images, like channel logos, that are displayed for long periods leaving a ghost image on the screen.
How to Choose the Best 43 Inch TV
Now that you’ve made up your mind to pick up the best 43 inch TV, you must consider several factors to narrow down your selection. Display technology, resolution, and price range are a few of these aspects. Let’s look at these and more below.
43 Inch TV Key Factors
1. What Display Technology Do You Want?
The TV market primarily has four types of display technologies—LCD, LED, OLED, and QLED.
LCD stands for liquid crystal display. Standard LCD monitors use fluorescent tubes to create light and images on the screen. Although less expensive than LED, OLED, and QLEDs, they don’t offer the best picture quality.
LED (light-emitting diode) also uses a liquid crystal display and light-emitting diodes to produce light. Due to this, LEDs have superior picture quality compared to standard LCDs.
Both LCDs and LEDs need backlights for brightness, but OLED (organic light-emitting diode) displays do not. They use a sheet of organic LEDs containing subpixels that produce their own light. This provides deeper blacks, incredible image contrast, and excellent picture quality. OLEDs maintain their quality and sharpness even when viewed from an angle.
QLED (Quantum-dot LED) TVs use a combination of traditional LCD panels lit by LEDs and a quantum dot layer to fill the space between the LCD panel and a backlight. These displays are brighter than OLEDs, which makes them perfect for bright and sunny spaces. But in terms of picture quality, OLEDs are the best. While you won’t find any 43 inch OLED TVs on the market, you will find 43 inch QLED models.
2. How Much is the Resolution?
Resolution refers to the number of pixels that create the visuals on the TV display—the higher the pixel count, the better the quality and sharpness of the visuals.
At HD resolution, you have 921,600 pixels, and that doubles to 2 million on Full HD, but with 4K, you’re looking at a whopping 8 million pixels. This is a colossal jump from Full HD images, and it means all the visuals will have incredible clarity despite the size of the display.
4K content has grown substantially over the years, and you’ll find plenty of 4K media on streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube. If you love watching films, you’ll want to get a TV that supports 4K resolution so that you can see all the visual elements the way they were meant to be seen.
Some TVs offer 8K support, but there’s very little 8K content available. Either way, you won’t find an 8K TV in this size category.
3. What’s the Refresh Rate?
The refresh rate determines how many times per second a picture is refreshed on the screen. Measured in Hertz (60 Hz), the standard refresh rate is 60 times per second.
A 60 Hz refresh rate is decent, but too many elements moving around rapidly can make everything look blurry. That’s why companies have created TVs with support for higher refresh rates, like 120 Hz and 240 Hz. The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the visuals will look, especially when viewing sports matches or action films.
If you’re using it for gaming, you’ll benefit from a higher refresh rate of 120 Hz to smooth out the visuals and ensure you’ll see more frames per second. This can give you an impressive advantage during competitive FPS games.
4. Does It Support HDR?
HDR is short for high-dynamic range and TVs that support this can produce a wide range of colors that are more accurate and natural. Without HDR, a TV’s display can’t show specific colors authentically. It can only try to use substitute colors, but the result will look different from how the image was originally shot.
Although HDR is supported across LCD, LED, OLED, and QLED screens, it’s only available on 4K displays.
5. Is It Smart or Dumb?
Smart TVs have become increasingly common. The built-in internet functionality and the advanced TV operating systems make it convenient to stream your favorite content at any time. And that’s why more people are cutting the cord and moving to streaming services. Although smart TVs are generally more expensive than dumb TVs, you’ll be hardpressed to find a 43 inch dumb TV.
6. What’s Your Budget?
You’ll find plenty of premium TVs in the market that cost thousands of dollars and have advanced features. But with some research, you can find the most suitable 43 inch smart TV for yourself.
Smaller-sized TVs are always less expensive than the larger ones and you’ll find 43-inch smart TVs between $300 to $1000. If there’s a sale, you could find a 43-inch model for as little as $150, but don’t expect excellent picture quality at such low prices. At $1000, you’ll find premium 4K smart TVs with advanced features like a rotating screen display.
