There's nothing better than cosying up in front of the television with a cuppa or glass of wine to kick off an evening. Nowadays, Smart TVs have all sorts of functions to give you an endless variety to choose from.
These include internet browsing, streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, as well as access to games and applications, Smart TVs are the way forward if you're looking to upgrade your TV and make your house the ultimate home.
If you're reading this article right now, chances are you're thinking about investing in some home technology and also know that you want a 40-inch to set up your space. If you're not sure whether to splash out on a 4k HD TV or check out more value options first, we've got the full breakdown. From all the information you need to know about a Smart TV to which one's the best on the market, here's what you need to know.
What is a Smart TV?
A Smart TV may seem like a daunting concept to begin with, but really it's quite simple. Smart TVs usually include a variety of apps and in-device activities through Wi-Fi access.
The real difference is that many Smart TVs can access these exciting programmes without needing an antenna or satellite. You don't need to sign up for any TV box subscriptions either as most of the access is already included in the TV.
Many Smart TVs also have built-in voice control which pairs up with devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, meaning you can control your TV with your voice.
Just note that if you're planning to use streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Britbox or Disney Plus, you will need a separate subscription to access these. You should be able to access ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and All 4 without payment, though.
What 40-inch Smart TV should I get?
There are a number of things to think about when you're deciding on what best 40-inch Smart TV to buy. If you're not set on all the techy terminology, here's a breakdown of the points to consider before you buy:
• Resolution: Smart TVs can come in HD resolutions from 720p HD, 1080p HD or 4k Ultra HD. All of these are high-quality but the further you go up, the higher the number of pixels and definitions on the TV. You can even now get 8k Ultra HD TVs, but these are generally found in larger sizes.
• High-dynamic-range (HDR): This is where it gets a bit more complex and is a newer feature to Smart TVs. Usually included in 4k and 8k resolutions, HDR means that there are more colours, brightness and contrast to make the picture pop even more
• How to connect to the internet: Every Smart TV will need to connect to the internet and there are three ways you can. First, through wireless Wi-Fi connection with a password, second, an ethernet cable which you’ll have to directly plug into your Wi-Fi box or finally, an extra 'powerline' if you’re hooking it up to somewhere further away from your Wi-Fi box.
• Voice control: Lots of smart TVs can connect to Alexa, Google Voice or Siri, so if you use these already in your house you could invest in a voice-activated TV to be extra techy.
Our choice for the best 40-inch Smart TVs here
Cello ZG0204 40u201d Smart Android TV with Freeview Play, Google Assistant
Best Android 40-inch Smart TV
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At just under £300 right now, this Cello Android Smart TV is great if you're looking for value for money with all the features. It has all the streaming services you could want as well as Freeview Play so that you can watch all the best TV whenever. It's also activated by Google Assistant for amazing voice-control access. What more could you want?
Specifications
• Dimensions: 93.1 x 19 x 55.4 cm
• Resolution: 1080p
• Display: LED LCD
• Refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet
• Voice controlled? Google Assistant
• Model Year: 2020
Panasonic TX-40JX800B (2021) LED HDR 4K Ultra HD Smart Android TV
Best 4k UHD 40-inch Smart TV
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If you're set on buying a 4k Ultra HD 40-inch tv, then this Panasonic Smart TV is a great choice. A 2021 model, this is totally modern and high-quality, being an Android TV with Google Assistant and HDR built-in. Its sound is good too, with surround sound for the best games, movies and streaming you could get. A little bit pricey but great value for this Smart TV, especially if you're looking for Freeview.
Specifications
• Dimensions: H52.4 x W90.4 x D6.5cm
• Resolution: 4k Ultra HD
• Display: LED Dolby Vision HDR
• Refresh rate: 50 Hz
• Connectivity: Wireless, Bluetooth
• Voice controlled? Yes, Google Assistant
• Model Year: 2021
JVC Fire TV 40" Smart Full HD LED TV
Best built-in Fire 40-inch Smart TV
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This is Amazon's Choice for a great 40-inch Smart TV - and it's great for any Amazon user with Amazon Fire built-in. You can use Alexa to control the TV and link it up to any other Amazon products you have, as well as streaming the best shows at a touch of a button. You can choose to mount this on a wall or put it on a table so you have all the choice.
Specifications
• Dimensions: 99 x 62.5 x 14 cm
• Resolution: 1080p
• Display: LED
• Refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Connectivity: Wireless
• Voice controlled? Yes, Amazon Alexa
• Model Year: 2020
HISENSE 40A4GTUK 40" Smart Full HD LED TV with Amazon Alexa
Best budget 40-inch Smart TV
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It's hard to find an excellent Hisense Smart TV that's 40-inches anymore, but we've hunted down this 2021 model. With a full HD 1080p display, you'll be seeing the best of all your favourite shows as well as being able to browse the internet, use the applications, and stream online. If you need to add any accessories like a recorder, you can also use the USB port included.
Specifications
•Dimensions: TV: 513 x 893 x 86 mm
• Resolution: Full HD 1920 x 1080p
• Display: LED directlit
• Refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet
• Voice controlled? Yes with Amazon Alexa
• Model Year: 2021
Samsung 40 Inch UE40T5300 Smart Full HD HDR LED TV
Best Samsung 40-inch Smart TV
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Again, it's harder to find Samsung Smart TVs that run at a 40-inch size, but you can still grab this 2020 40-inch 1080p LED TV right here. You can choose to have it mounted on a wall or table and is a great price for an industry leader like Samsung. It's a little older so doesn't include voice activation but you get access to YouTube and streaming like other Smart TVs. Efficient and great for someone who doesn't get down with the tech too much.
Specifications
• Dimensions: 91.71 x 7.7 x 52.77 cm
• Resolution: 1080p
• Display: LED HD
• Refresh rate: 50 Hz
• Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet
• Voice controlled? No
• Model Year: 2020
Panasonic TX-40JX850B 40" Smart 4K Ultra HD HDR LED TV with Google Assistant & Amazon Alexa
Best 40-inch Smart TV to splash on
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Our pick of the best high-end TV, this 2021 Panasonic TV is the ultimate 40-inch Smart TV. It is definitely worth the money if you're looking to get all the features as it ticks everything off including 4k UHD, voice activation, latest app access, and Dolby Atmos surround sound. If you like games or movies, this has specific modes with intelligent settings and backlight technology. The best of the best.
Specifications
• Dimensions: TV: H517 x W901 x D63 mm
• Resolution: 4k UHD 3840 x 2160p
• Display: LED backlit with Local Dimming Pro
• Refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet and Bluetooth
• Voice controlled? Yes, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
• Model Year: 2021