The best 40 and 43-inch TVs

Over the years, we’ve tested hundreds of models at this size, se we know what the best 43-inch TVs can offer and what the worst ones lack. From pin-sharp pictures to sickly skin tones and superb soundtracks to dreadful dins, we’ve seen and heard it all. Here, we show you some of the best and worst from the Which? test lab.

40-inch TVs are few and far between. The only leading brand making them is Panasonic and its range is one of the smallest. We don't tend to see any 40-inch TVs outside the most basic ranges.

Best 40- to 43-inch TVs

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How big is a 40 to 43-inch TV?

Each TV has a different sized bezel and stand, so there will always be slight differences in the height, width and depth of a TV. We've taken the average size of the models we've tested so you can get a good idea of how much space one will take up.

• 40-inch TV: 57.3 x 90.5 x 22cm (H,W,D)
• 43-inch TV: 62.4 x 96.8 x 23.4cm (H,W,D)

Here are some 40 to 43-inch TVs to avoid

With these TVs going for as little as a couple hundred pounds, it can be difficult to refuse the bargain basement prices. But that can often mean paying the price in terms of quality. 

While spending a little more will get you a fantastic Best Buy TV, we’ve also seen some really pricey models that fail to impress us in our tough lab tests.

How to choose the best 40 to 43-inch TV

A 40 to 43-inch TV is the right size for you if your sofa is about three metres away. If you’re going for a 4K ultra-HD set, you can sit a little closer; about 2.5 metres. For more guidance use our TV screen size calculator.

If you’ve decided that a 40 to 43-inch TV is for you, here are some features to look out for:

• PVR functionality: TVs with built-in PVR functionality mean you can connect a USB hard disc drive to the TV and then be able to pause and record live programmes. Some have twin tuner PVR functionality, meaning you can watch one programme while recording another.
• Freeview Play: this handy software combines catch-up services with the electronic programme guide, so you can watch programmes you've missed and see what's coming up all from the same menu.
• HDR: HDR, which stands for high dynamic range, improves the contrast on TVs in an effort to make crisper whites and deeper blacks with more variation of colour in between. There are five different formats with different manufacturers supporting different ones. Pay attention to how many formats the TV you're eyeing up is compatible with and find out more about them and how they differ in our guide to HDR TV.

What you need to know about Which? TV reviews 

Every TV we test goes through hundreds of rigorous independent assessments in our test lab. Many websites 'test' based on one person's opinion and preferences. We use teams of highly trained experts to test hundreds of models every year.

We don't accept TVs from manufacturers. We buy from the shop, just like you, so we aren't beholden to brands or PR representatives.

For more information, see how we test televisions.