Summarize:

The majority of modern TVs have a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen backlit by light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Manufacturers use this technology to make inexpensive TVs in a variety of sizes. You can get a decent 32 in (81 cm) TV for as little as  $200 USD or a massive 90 in (230 cm) TV for as much as $8,000.  These days, separate LED and LCD TVs no longer exist. Modern LED LCD TVs combine the best of both technologies. LED LCD TVs are thin, flat, and can be purchased with a variety of features. Unless you desire better picture quality from cutting-edge technology, this type of TV will suit your needs. Older LCD TVs use cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs) for backlighting. LEDs tend to use less energy while providing better contrast. You may see terms like QLED, XLED, and ULED when shopping. These TVs are basically brand names for specific manufacturers. The TVs aren’t very different from standard LEDs, but they include additional technology for a noticeably higher picture quality. You don’t need to think too much about these terms unless you’re interested in spending a little extra for a boost in picture quality.  QLED is basically Samsung’s name for its high-end LED TVs. It uses quantum dots to create a backlight that produces brighter colors. Vizio makes XLED TVs. They have better backlighting than standard LEDs, making them similar to QLEDs. The Chinese company Hisense makes ULEDs. ULED TVs use quantum dot backlighting and are often somewhat cheaper than other brands. For comparison, a 55 in (140 cm) QLED TV costs $1,000. A 55 in (140 cm) LED TV with similar features costs about $600. As of 2019, OLED TVs are the best on the market. They are a little more expensive than QLEDs and other proprietary brands but are coming down in price as the technology becomes more widespread. A 55 in (140 cm) OLED costs anywhere from $1,200 to $1,500 depending on the manufacturer.  OLEDs make use of organic light emitting diodes, so they aren’t very different from LEDs. As of 2019, only LG and Sony manufacture them, so your options are limited. For an example of OLED picture quality, look at an image with black in it. OLEDs capture true black. On regular TVs, black looks somewhat gray. OLEDS display colors and shadows better. Smart TVs come preloaded with various Internet-ready features. If you have ever used a device like a Roku box, you know what to expect. You can easily access video services like Netflix and music services like Pandora through your remote control. Otherwise, smart TVs are not much different from standard LEDs and have a similar price tag.  Some manufacturers have their own smart TV platforms or partnerships. Some TVs have built-in Roku, Android TV, or Amazon systems. More and more TVs have these smart features built in, so you do not need to hunt down a set specifically advertised as smart. If you get a regular TV, you can always plug in a device like a Roku or Amazon Fire stick to make your TV “smart." Curved TVs are the same as regular LEDs except for the bent shape of the screen. The curved screen is meant to give you a wider field of view, giving images more depth like 3D movies. When you view the screen from the “sweet spot” in front of it, you get enhanced picture quality. Curved TVs have to be big in order to be effective. Unlike flat screens, curved screens aren’t viewable at all angles, so think about your room layout before choosing one.
Buy an LED LCD TV for a sizable TV at an inexpensive price. Shop for QLED and other variations for a picture quality upgrade. Get an OLED TV for the highest quality picture available. Pick a smart TV if you enjoy streaming services or apps. Opt for a curved TV for a more immersive viewing experience.