How we test TVs at ZDNET in 2025 [Video]

These days, a TV is much more than something you use to watch movies and shows. The latest smart TVs can turn your living room into a true entertainment hub, allowing you to stream music, content, and shows from thousands of apps, view photos and videos from mobile devices, browse the web, and even remotely access your desktop PC or make video calls for work.  

Also: The best TVs: Expert tested 

But this doesn’t mean that the basics of what makes a TV great compared to “just okay” have changed. And we at ZDNET put each TV we review through a series of real-world tests and lab benchmarking to help you find the best fit for your space, entertainment needs, and your budget. If you’ve ever wondered what it is, exactly, that we’re looking for before we recommend a TV to you, here’s a thorough breakdown of how we evaluate TVs for everything from catching up …