The 43-inch smart TV category has become one of the most popular choices for bedroom setups, small apartments, and secondary rooms.
After researching the current market and analyzing specifications across multiple brands, I found that the TCL 43-Inch S5 with Google TV is the best 43-inch smart TV for most buyers due to its excellent Google TV integration, 4K UHD resolution, and competitive pricing.
Having tested and researched various TVs in this size range, I know how challenging it can be to find the right balance between picture quality, smart features, and value.
This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the best 43-inch smart TV for your space, including detailed reviews of top models and a comprehensive buying guide.
Our Top 3 Picks for 43-Inch Smart TVs
43-Inch Smart TV Comparison Table
Compare key specifications and features across all four models to find the right match for your needs.
| Product | Details | |
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TCL 43S551G S5
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Hisense 43R6090G
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TCL 43S450R S4
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LG UN7300
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Detailed 43-Inch Smart TV Reviews
1. TCL 43-Inch S5 with Google TV – Best Google TV Integration
TCL 43-Inch Class S5 4K UHD LED Smart TV with Google TV (43S551G, 2024 Model), Google Assistant Built-in with Voice Remote, Compatible with Alexa, Streaming Television
Display: 43 inch 4K UHD
Smart Platform: Google TV
Features: Chromecast built-in,Voice Remote,Alexa Compatible
Year: 2024 Model
+ Pros
- Google TV platform
- Chromecast built-in
- Voice search works well
- Simple interface
- Great app selection
– Cons
- Limited HDR formats
- Basic remote quality
- Average sound output
The TCL S5 stands out as the best Google TV option in the 43-inch category for 2026. Google TV offers a more modern interface compared to older Android TV versions, with better content discovery and recommendations.
This TV delivers 4K UHD resolution at 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is excellent for this screen size. Text remains crisp and smaller details stay sharp even up close.
The Google Assistant integration works seamlessly through the voice remote. I found voice search particularly useful when looking for specific movies or shows across multiple streaming apps.
Chromecast built-in is a major advantage. You can cast content from your phone, tablet, or laptop directly to the TV without any additional hardware needed.
The panel offers decent brightness for small to medium-sized rooms. Dark room performance is adequate but not exceptional, which is typical for this price range.
Who Should Buy?
Google ecosystem users, anyone who frequently casts from mobile devices, and buyers wanting a modern smart interface with excellent content discovery.
Who Should Avoid?
Critical viewers who need advanced HDR formats, home theater enthusiasts requiring premium panel performance, and those preferring other smart platforms.
2. Hisense 43-Inch R6090G with Roku TV – Best Roku Platform Experience
Hisense 43-Inch Class R6090G Roku 4K UHD Smart TV with Alexa Compatibility (43R6090G, 2020 Model)
Display: 43 inch 4K UHD
Smart Platform: Roku TV
Features: Alexa Compatible,Simple Interface,Fast Performance
Year: 2020 Model
+ Pros
- Roku TV interface
- Very responsive
- Simple setup
- Huge app library
- Alexa works well
– Cons
- Older model design
- Limited HDR
- Basic remote included
- Average viewing angles
The Hisense R6090G delivers the Roku TV experience, which I’ve found to be one of the most stable and user-friendly smart platforms available. Roku consistently updates its interface and app selection.
This 43-inch model features 4K UHD resolution that looks clean and sharp from normal viewing distances. Roku’s interface handles 4K content streaming smoothly without lag.
What I appreciate about Roku TV is the simplicity. The home screen focuses on content rather than apps, making it easy to jump back into what you were watching.
The processor in this model keeps navigation snappy. Unlike some budget TVs that stutter through menu navigation, this Hisense responds quickly to remote input.
Alexa compatibility allows voice control through compatible Echo devices. You can change channels, search for content, and launch apps hands-free.
Who Should Buy?
Roku platform fans, users wanting the simplest interface, anyone who values reliability over bleeding-edge features, and Alexa ecosystem users.
Who Should Avoid?
Buyers wanting the latest model year, viewers needing advanced HDR support, and those preferring Google TV or webOS interfaces.
3. TCL 43-Inch S4 with Roku TV – Best Value with Dolby Vision
TCL 43-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV with Roku TV (43S450R, 2023 Model), Dolby Vision, HDR, Dolby Atmos, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit Compatibility, Streaming UHD Television
Display: 43 inch 4K UHD
Smart Platform: Roku TV
Features: Dolby Vision,HDR,Dolby Atmos,HomeKit Ready
Year: 2023 Model
+ Pros
- Dolby Vision support
- Dolby Atmos audio
- Roku TV platform
- Works with Alexa
- HomeKit compatible
– Cons
- Lower brightness
- Only 60Hz refresh
- Basic sound
- Plastic build
The TCL S4 offers something unique in this price range: Dolby Vision support. This advanced HDR format delivers better dynamic range and more accurate colors compared to standard HDR10.
I’ve tested Dolby Vision content on this TV, and the difference is noticeable in scenes with mixed lighting. Highlights retain detail while shadows show more depth.
Dolby Atmos support adds virtual height to audio. While built-in TV speakers can’t replace a soundbar, the Atmos processing creates a more immersive soundfield than standard stereo.
The Roku TV platform provides access to thousands of streaming channels. I consistently find Roku to be one of the most stable smart TV interfaces, with regular app updates.
Smart home integration is strong with this model. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, giving you flexibility regardless of your preferred ecosystem.
Who Should Buy?
Value seekers wanting Dolby Vision, Apple ecosystem users needing HomeKit support, and anyone prioritizing smart features over premium picture quality.
Who Should Avoid?
Bright room setups requiring high panel brightness, competitive gamers needing low input lag, and viewers expecting OLED-level contrast.
4. LG UN73 with webOS – Best webOS Smart Features
LG UN73 Series 43” Alexa Built-in, 4K UHD IPS Smart TV, Bluetooth Surround Ready, Apple Airplay 2, webOS with Magic Remote (43UN7300PUF, 2020)
Display: 43 inch 4K UHD IPS
Smart Platform: LG webOS
Features: Magic Remote,AirPlay 2,Bluetooth Surround,Alexa Built-in
Year: 2020 Model
+ Pros
- webOS interface
- Magic Remote included
- IPS panel angles
- AirPlay 2 support
- Good upscaling
– Cons
- IPS contrast limits
- Premium pricing
- 60Hz only
- Thin bezels fragile
The LG UN73 brings the polished webOS interface to the 43-inch form factor. I’ve consistently found webOS to be one of the most intuitive smart TV platforms, with smooth animations and logical organization.
The IPS panel technology provides excellent viewing angles. Unlike VA panels that wash out when viewed off-center, this LG maintains color accuracy from wider positions.
The included Magic Remote is a significant advantage. Instead of traditional button navigation, you simply point and click like a computer mouse, which I find much more natural for smart TV interaction.
AirPlay 2 support is built-in, allowing Apple users to share content from iPhone, iPad, or Mac directly to the TV. This feature works flawlessly for photos, videos, and screen mirroring.
LG’s upscaling technology does a respectable job with 1080p and 720p content. The processor analyzes and enhances lower-resolution signals to look sharper on the 4K display.
Who Should Buy?
Apple ecosystem users, viewers needing wide viewing angles, anyone preferring webOS over other platforms, and those who want the Magic Remote experience.
Who Should Avoid?
Dark room home theater setups, viewers prioritizing contrast over viewing angles, and budget-conscious buyers who can find similar specs for less.
Understanding Why 43-Inch Smart TVs Are Popular
The 43-inch screen size occupies a sweet spot in the TV market. It’s large enough for an immersive viewing experience but compact enough to fit in spaces where larger TVs feel overwhelming.
This size is particularly well-suited for bedrooms. Based on my research, the optimal viewing distance for a 43-inch TV is between 5 and 8 feet, making it ideal for typical bedroom layouts.
Apartment dwellers also favor this size. Many living rooms in apartments simply cannot accommodate 55-inch or larger TVs without making the space feel cramped.
Gaming is another growing use case. The 43-inch size works well as a secondary gaming display, offering a larger experience than typical gaming monitors without requiring as much desk space.
Price plays a significant role too. 43-inch TVs typically cost less than larger sizes, making them attractive for second TVs, guest rooms, or budget-conscious setups.
How to Choose the Best 43-Inch Smart TV?
Finding the right 43-inch smart TV requires understanding which features matter most for your specific situation. Let me break down the key factors I consider when evaluating TVs in this category.
Resolution: 4K vs 1080p
4K UHD resolution has become the standard at 43 inches. With a pixel density of approximately 103 PPI, 4K content looks sharp and detailed at normal viewing distances.
From my testing, 4K makes a noticeable difference on 43-inch screens when viewing distance is under 7 feet. Beyond that distance, 1080p can still look acceptable.
However, most content you’ll watch is streaming, and streaming services increasingly prioritize 4K. Having a 4K TV ensures you’re getting the best quality available from Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and others.
Smart Platform Selection
The smart TV platform significantly impacts your daily experience. Here’s how the main options compare:
| Platform | Best For | Key Strength | Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google TV | Google ecosystem users | Content discovery | Some ads in interface |
| Roku TV | Simplicity seekers | Stability and apps | Basic customization |
| webOS | Interface enthusiasts | Polished experience | Limited to LG TVs |
| Tizen | Samsung fans | Feature-rich | Not on 43-inch models |
HDR Format Support
HDR formats significantly impact picture quality with compatible content. Here’s what you’ll encounter:
- HDR10: Basic HDR format found on most 4K TVs. Every model in this guide supports it.
- HDR10+: Enhanced HDR with dynamic metadata. Rare at 43 inches.
- Dolby Vision: Premium HDR with advanced dynamic metadata. Only the TCL S4 supports it in our lineup.
- HLG: Broadcast HDR standard. Useful for over-the-air content.
Room Size and Viewing Distance
Understanding the right viewing distance helps ensure the best experience. Based on THX recommendations and my testing:
- 3-5 feet: Maximum immersion, good for gaming
- 5-7 feet: Optimal for movies and shows
- 7-9 feet: Comfortable viewing, less immersive
- 9+ feet: Consider larger size if possible
For bedrooms, I typically recommend placing the TV at the foot of the bed for optimal viewing from a lying position, which usually works out to about 6-8 feet of distance.
Gaming Considerations
If you plan to game on your 43-inch TV, consider these factors:
- Input Lag: Lower is better. Under 20ms is ideal for competitive gaming, though most 43-inch TVs fall in the 15-30ms range.
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz is standard at this size. 120Hz models are rare and expensive in 43 inches.
- VRR Support: Variable Refresh Rate reduces screen tearing. Mostly absent from budget 43-inch TVs.
- ALLM: Auto Low Latency Mode automatically switches to game mode. Check if this matters for your console.
Audio Quality Expectations
Built-in TV speakers have physical limitations. At 43 inches, you’re typically looking at 5-10 watt speakers firing downward or rearward.
I recommend budgeting for a soundbar if audio quality matters to you. Even a modest soundbar will significantly outperform any TV’s built-in speakers.
However, if you must rely on built-in audio, look for models with Dolby Atmos support like the TCL S4. The virtual height processing does add some dimensionality.
Smart Platform Deep Dive
The smart platform you choose will define your daily experience. Let me break down each platform based on extensive hands-on testing.
Google TV (TCL S5)
Google TV excels at content discovery. The interface prioritizes what you can watch rather than which app you need to open. I find this approach much more intuitive for casual viewing.
The watchlist feature syncs across devices. Adding something to your watchlist on your phone makes it immediately available on the TV.
Google Assistant integration is seamless. The voice remote can search across all installed apps, control smart home devices, and answer general questions.
Roku TV (Hisense R6090G, TCL S4)
Roku TV has earned its reputation for reliability. The interface is basic but functional, and it rarely crashes or freezes.
The app store is massive, with thousands of channels including all major streaming services and many niche options.
Roku’s mobile app is one of the best available, offering private listening through headphones, voice search, and an enhanced remote interface.
webOS (LG UN73)
LG’s webOS feels the most polished of the bunch. Animations are smooth, the interface is responsive, and the layout makes logical sense.
The Magic Remote sets webOS apart. Pointing and clicking feels more natural than traditional button navigation, especially for typing search terms.
The LG ThinQ app allows comprehensive control from your phone, including input switching, app launching, and some picture settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal viewing distance for a 43-inch TV?
The optimal viewing distance for a 43-inch TV is 5 to 8 feet. At this range, 4K resolution appears sharp and you can comfortably take in the entire screen without excessive head movement. For bedroom use, placing the TV at the foot of the bed typically works out to about 6-8 feet.
Is 4K worth it on a 43-inch TV?
Yes, 4K is worth it on a 43-inch TV for most viewing situations. At normal viewing distances of 5-8 feet, 4K provides noticeably sharper text and finer details compared to 1080p. Additionally, most streaming services now prioritize 4K content, so having a 4K TV ensures access to the best quality available.
Which smart TV platform is best for 43-inch TVs?
The best smart TV platform depends on your ecosystem. Google TV offers the best content discovery and integrates well with Android devices. Roku TV provides the most stable experience with the largest app library. LG webOS offers the most polished interface and excellent Apple integration. All three work well, so choose based on your existing devices.
Do 43-inch TVs have good sound quality?
Most 43-inch TVs have basic sound quality due to physical limitations of small built-in speakers. While adequate for casual viewing, you’ll want a soundbar for immersive movie watching or music. Models with Dolby Atmos support like the TCL S4 offer slightly enhanced virtual surround, but cannot overcome the physics of small speaker drivers.
Are 43-inch TVs good for gaming?
43-inch TVs can work well for gaming, especially in smaller spaces. Most models have acceptable input lag in the 15-30ms range for casual gaming. However, serious gamers should look for specific gaming features like VRR and ALLM, which are rare at 43 inches. The size works well as a secondary gaming display for consoles or PCs.
Final Recommendations
After extensive research and hands-on evaluation, the TCL 43-Inch S5 with Google TV stands out as the best overall choice for 2026. It combines the excellent Google TV platform with 4K UHD resolution at a competitive price point.
The Google TV interface offers superior content discovery, and Chromecast built-in adds valuable casting functionality. Most users will find this TV meets all their needs for bedroom or secondary room use.
If you prefer Roku’s simplicity, the Hisense R6090G and TCL S4 both offer excellent Roku TV experiences. The TCL S4 adds Dolby Vision support, making it the better choice for HDR content.
For Apple ecosystem users or those who value a premium interface, the LG UN73 with webOS and the included Magic Remote provides the most polished user experience in this category.
Whichever model you choose, all four TVs reviewed here deliver solid 4K performance and reliable smart features that will serve well in small to medium-sized rooms.