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The best 85-inch TVs to create your ultimate home theater
An 85-inch TV can turn your living room into the ultimate home theater by giving you a nice viewing area for movies, shows, sports, and gaming.
Brands like Sony, Samsung, and TCL have all made great additions to their 85-inch TV line-ups, and I've researched and tested dozens of models to put together a list of the five best you can buy right now. To help you decide which is the right fit for you, I've broken down their features and price points so you can find the best value for your money.
Also: The best smart TVs of 2023
My pick for the best 85-inch TV overall is the Samsung QN90C for its 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound+ support, and Samsung Gaming Hub. You can keep reading below to find out more about the Samsung QN90C as well as my picks for the best budget and best OLED 85-inch TVs.
The best 85-inch TVs of 2023
- Pantone-validated screen
- Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound+
- Samsung Gaming Hub
- Expensive
- No composite video input
Samsung QN90C tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: Neo QLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Neo Quantum HDR+ | Audio: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google, Samsung Bixby
This latest model from Samsung proves why the brand is one of the top names in TVs. The Neo QLED panel provides both native and upscaled 4K content as well as a 120Hz refresh rate for better detailing, and smoother motion. The screen is also Pantone-validated for exceptional color accuracy and more lifelike images. It works with both Dolby Atmos and Samsung's Object Tracking Sound+ technology to provide immersive, virtual surround sound that follows the on-screen action. ZDNET's Artie Beaty wrote up a fantastic review of the Samsung QN90C, noting the anti-reflection coating on the screen, which helps cut down on glare.
It even features the Samsung Gaming Hub, which is a mode that gives you access to streaming services like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Gaming NOW for cloud-based gaming. The dedicated gaming mode also works with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR technology to help reduce annoying screen tearing and stuttering. With support for Alexa, Bixby, and Hey Google, you can integrate your new TV into your smart home network quickly and easily.
- Price
- Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision support
- Preloaded streaming apps
- 120Hz refresh
- No dedicated game mode for picture settings
- No composite in/out ports
LG NanoCell 75 Series tech specs: Screen size: 86 inches | Panel type: NanoCell LED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10 | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit
While larger-screen TVs tend to be on the more expensive side, the LG NanoCell 75 Series offers an 86-inch panel for $1500. It uses LG's NanoCell LED panel with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support for enhanced color, contrast, and detailing while the 120Hz refresh rate gives you buttery smooth motion. The built-in speakers work with Dolby Atmos providing virtual surround sound for a more immersive experience when streaming music, movies, and shows. The TV also supports Bluetooth connectivity, so you can set up wireless speakers, subwoofers, and sound bars for a custom home audio configuration. With built-in voice controls via Alexa, Hey Google, and even Apple HomeKit, you'll get hands-free control over your new TV and connected devices. And the NanoCell 75 comes with a suite of preloaded, popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video so you can start streaming right out of the box.
- Excellent picture quality
- 11 picture modes
- Acoustic Surface Audio+
- Very expensive
- No VRR support
Sony Bravia XR A80L tech specs: Screen size: 83 inches | Panel type: OLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos, Acoustic Surface Audio+ | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
An OLED TV is the perfect choice for anyone who values picture quality over all other features, and the Sony A80L is the best option if you're in the market for a big-screen OLED model. The 83-inch panel has 11 different picture modes, including IMAX Enhanced and a dedicated game mode so you can get the best image possible for watching movies and shows or playing video games. ZDNET's Artie Beaty was able to do some hands-on testing with the A80L, calling the XR Clear Image feature which uses AI to enhance details on-screen "game-changing." Artie also praised the XR clear Image technology for showing "subtle textures and details that would be missed without it" in lower-resolution content that has been upscaled to 4K.
The A80L also works with Sony's Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology to turn the entire screen into a speaker for near-perfect video and audio syncing as well as sound that follows the on-screen action. With Google Assistant and Chromecast built-in, you'll get hands-free voice controls and screen mirroring right out of the box for more ways to control your new TV and entertain family and friends.
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- 2,000 nit peak brightness
- Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
- IMAX-certified
- Great picture quality
- Pricey
- No G-Sync support
TCL QM8 tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: QLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Dolby Vision | Audio: Dolby Atmos | Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
The TCL QM8 is a great option for brighter rooms, whether you do most of your TV watching during the day or you have harsh overhead lighting in your living room. With a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, you'll be able to make out details and colors both day and night. It also produces a 120Hz refresh rate and 4K resolution for a clean, smooth picture for watching sports and action movies. With support for Dolby Vision HDR as well as an IMAX certification, you'll get the best detailing and contrast to make colors pop.
I was able to do some hands-on testing with the TCL QM8, and I stuck it in my office since that's the brightest room in my house (with all of my lighting for photography and filming videos). Movies, games, and shows all looked amazing, with bold colors and clean, crisp details even when I had virtually every light in the room on.
- FreeSync Premium Pro
- Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite
- Plenty of inputs
- No Dolby Vision support
- No G-Sync support
- No composite video input for retro consoles
Samsung Q80C tech specs: Screen size: 85 inches | Panel type: QLED | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Resolution: 4K | HDR: Quantum HDR+ | Audio: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound Lite | Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google
If you're looking for an 85-inch TV to create the ultimate gaming space, the Samsung Q80C makes a great addition. Not only does it provide great 4K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, but it also features the Samsung Gaming Hub, which connects you to services like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce NOW for cloud-based gaming. And if you prefer physical consoles, you can connect multiple devices with the 4 HDMI ports. You can also connect retro consoles via the RF input, but if you have consoles that use a composite output, you'll have to invest in a composite-to-HDMI converter.
The Q80C works with Dolby Atmos as well as Samsung's Object Tracking Sound Lite technology for virtual surround sound audio that follows the on-screen action to give you a more immersive experience without the need for headphones. It also supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR to prevent screen tearing and stuttering.
Which is the best 85-inch TV?
My pick for the best 85-inch TV is the Samsung QN90C. This is one of Samsung's high-end offerings with a price to match, and it's packed to the gills with premium features. Not only does it support Dolby Atmos, it also uses Samsung's Object Tracking Sound+ for audio that follows the on-screen action and a more immersive experience while gaming or watching movies and shows. The screen is also Pantone-validated for color accuracy, ensuring that it will produce bright, vivid colors and more lifelike details.
Best 85-inch TV | Price | HDR | Audio |
Samsung QN90C | $3498 | Neo Quantum HDR+ | Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ |
LG NanoCell 75 Series | $1497 | Dolby Vision, HDR10 | Dolby Atmos |
Sony Bravia XR A80L | $4998 | Dolby Vision | Dolby Atmos, Acoustic Surface Audio+ |
TCL QM8 | $2198 | Dolby Vision | Dolby Atmos |
Samsung Q80C | $2249 | Quantum HDR+ | Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound Lite |
Which 85-inch TV is right for you?
Once you've hammered out a budget for your new 85-inch TV, the most important thing to keep in mind is what you'll be using your TV for the most. Have you cut the cord and moved exclusively to streaming? You'll want to choose a model with a preloaded suite of popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video, so you can get started right out of the box.
Do you have a network of smart speakers? Pick a TV that has support for your preferred virtual assistant as well as multi-room linking to pump music and dialogue throughout your whole home.
This table quickly breaks down which 85-inch TV best suits your watching preferences.
Buy this 85-inch TV... | If you want... |
Samsung QN90C | A well-rounded 85-inch TV for a variety of uses. The Samsung QN90C offers both Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound+ for a more immersive viewing experience. |
LG NanoCell 75 Series | A more budget-friendly 85-inch TV. This TV retails just under $1500, making it more affordable while providing an 86-inch screen. |
Sony Bravia XR A80L | A high-end, large-screen OLED TV. It uses Sony's Acoustic Surface Audio to turn the whole screen into a speaker for near-perfect video and audio syncing. |
TCL QM8 | An 85-inch TV for brighter home theaters and living rooms. This TV has a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits for better visibility in daylight and under harsh overhead lighting. |
Samsung Q80C | A dedicated gaming TV. It features the Samsung Gaming Hub which gives you access to streaming services like GeForce NOW and Amazon Luna. |
How did we choose these 85-inch TVs?
While many manufacturers have come to somewhat of a consensus when it comes to standardizing screen size classes, there are still a few outliers -- even at big brands like Sony and LG. Some brands choose to produce 83-inch models, and I have considered many and even included one (the Sony A80L), as they are quite similar in viewing area to an 85-inch model.
I've also considered many other factors when researching and testing each 85-inch TV on this list:
- Picture quality: A TV is only as good as the images it can produce. And with 4K resolution and 60-120Hz refresh rates being the norm, it's easier to get your hands on a quality big-screen TV. Sony also produces a large-screen OLED for ultra-detailed images and enhanced contrast.
- Audio quality: Tinny or cheap-sounding TV speakers can ruin an otherwise great viewing experience. I've chosen 85-inch TVs that support HDMI eARC connectivity for setting up sound bars and other audio equipment as well as support for premium audio drivers like Dolby Atmos.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity have become standard for home TVs as more and more people switch from cable and satellite providers to exclusively streaming content via apps like Netflix and Disney+. But I've also made sure that each TV on this list also has plenty of HDMI and USB inputs as well as a hardwired Ethernet connection so you can easily connect DVD or Blu-Ray players, game consoles, audio equipment, and more reliable internet connections.
Can I wall-mount an 85-inch TV?
You absolutely can! However, since 85-inch TVs can be quite heavy and have larger VESA mount spacing, you'll want to spend extra money on a heavy-duty mounting bracket. Something like the Echogear wall mount can support up to a 90-inch screen size and up to 125 pounds (about 57kg) of weight. Make sure you consult your TV's operating manual for specific mounting requirements, so your shiny new screen doesn't come crashing down in the middle of the night, taking most of the wall with it.
What's the biggest TV you can buy?
If we're talking about conventional televisions, the TCL 98R754 is a staggering 98-inches wide. But if you're willing to consider a laser or short-throw projector TV, Samsung's The Premiere is capable of showing a screen up to 130 inches. But unless you live in a cavernous McMansion with 18-foot cathedral ceilings and a sprawling layout, you won't be able to get them to fit in your living room, let alone be able to take full advantage of their features.
How can I know if an 85-inch TV will fit in my room?
The best way to find out is to measure (in inches) from where the TV will be wall-mounted or placed on a stand to where you will be sitting, and then divide that measurement by 2. If your couch is anywhere from 150 to 170 inches (12.5 to 14 feet) from the TV, an 85-inch screen will be an almost perfect fit. You can, of course, go a bit bigger (if possible) or smaller depending on what your budget is and what's available from each brand. A screen that is too big can overwhelm your space and even cause motion sickness. while one that is too small will make it feel cavernous and force everyone to crowd around in order to see.
Are there alternative 85-inch TVs worth considering?
There are lots of options out there if you're looking to buy a new 85-inch TV. Here's a short list of other models I thought were great picks:
Best budget 85-inch TV
Samsung QN900C
The Samsung QN900C is the brand's latest entry in their 8K TV line-up. It provides four times the resolution of a 4K model and features both Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Pro.
Best mid-range 85-inch TV alternative
Sony X77L
This 85-inch TV from Sony retails for just $1500 while still offering Alexa and Hey Google support as well as Apple AirPlay and a suite of popular, preloaded apps.
Runner-up best 85-inch TV for gaming
LG QNED80
The LG QNED80 features a native 120Hz refresh rate as well as support for AMD FreeSync VRR. It also provides virtual 5.1CH surround sound for an immersive experience without a headset.