January is traditionally the time when stores need to make room for new models shown at CES 2026, so prices of last year's hits are dropping. If you dream of an OLED but don't want to spend a fortune on the "newness tax," these three models should be on your radar!
Which cheap OLED to buy in 2026? LG OLED B5
The list opens with the LG B5, which is currently emerging as the absolute king of value for money. This will likely be the cheapest way to enter the world of perfect blacks without spending a fortune. Even though it is a budget model in LG's hierarchy, it doesn't feel like it during everyday use. Gamers get full support for 120Hz and a multitude of features optimizing gameplay that were recently reserved for the most expensive series. Of course, there is one catch – lower panel brightness. This is a typical "problem" of cheaper OLEDs, which is why the B5 performs best in controlled lighting conditions, such as in a bedroom. In every other respect, the image is as rich and deep as in higher-end models, making it worth your attention!
What is the Best 65-Inch OLED? Samsung S90F
However, the real revolution begins with the Samsung S90F, but here we have a very important note for you: primarily look at the 65-inch model. In this specific size, Samsung has used a QD-OLED panel, which is a technological leap compared to the standard WOLED panels used by competitors. It offers significantly wider color gamut coverage and much higher brightness, making colors more saturated and vibrant even in bright scenes. However, it is worth knowing that in other sizes, Samsung uses the same panels as the LG C5, so the choice then comes down to preferences regarding the operating system. If you’re aiming for 65 inches, the S90F is currently the unrivaled leader in picture quality in its price class.
Which OLED is the most cost-effective? LG OLED C5
For those looking for something more versatile for a bright living room, the natural choice in the January promotions is the LG C5. It is one of the most complete televisions that appeared last year. Thanks to the use of an OLED Evo panel, it offers significantly higher brightness than the aforementioned B series, which makes a difference when watching movies during the day. The C5 is also a treat for fans of numbers, as when connected to a computer, the panel can refresh at a rate of up to 144Hz. The whole system is powered by a slightly stronger processor, which handles motion smoothing and improving the quality of lower-quality video materials more efficiently.
Most Interesting OLED? Philips OLED910
The most interesting proposal in the current lineup is the Philips OLED910. This model was overlooked by us at launch due to a terrible price-to-quality ratio – it simply cost way too much. However, the situation has changed 180 degrees now that top models from competitors, such as the Samsung S95F or LG G5, stubbornly maintain high prices and do not want to go on sale (yet). At this moment, the OLED910 is the cheapest way to have a “top-tier” OLED at home. Its biggest ace up the sleeve is the Tandem OLED panel, which can generate over 2000 nits of brightness in cinematic scenes (literally taking your breath away). In addition, it features the Google TV Android system, the already iconic Ambilight, and sound that – as our tests confirm – is currently the best factory-installed audio in televisions. By purchasing this model, you can comfortably skip buying an entry-level soundbar because Philips simply sounds better than them. It was once too expensive, but today it costs the same as competitors' models, so it's worth taking a look at it since it offers some extras that are hard to find among the competition.
Japanese OLED Sony Bravia 8 II
The perfect addition for fans of uncompromising quality is the Sony Bravia 8 II. Although Sony is rarely associated with low prices, looking at the current offers, this model does not fall behind the competition as much as one might assume. This is great news for fans of Japanese precision in image processing. The Bravia 8 II uses the same powerful QD-OLED panel as the flagship Samsung S95F, which guarantees enormous brightness in HDR films and stunning colors. Sony adds its legendary XR processor, known for the most natural motion and detail reproduction. The whole system operates under Google TV, which will be a huge advantage for many due to its convenience and the number of available applications. This is a proposition for those who want flagship technology at a somewhat more affordable post-holiday price.
Overview of recommended OLED models for early 2026
Model | Panel (Technology) | Brightness (HDR) | Refresh Rate | Smart TV System | Why it's worth buying? |
LG B5 | OLED | 600 | 120 Hz | webOS | Best price |
LG C5 | OLED Evo | 1000 | 144 Hz | webOS | Most versatile |
Samsung S90F | QD-OLED (in 65") | 1500 | 144 Hz | Tizen | Price/quality ratio in 65" |
Sony Bravia 8 II | QD-OLED | 2200 | 120 Hz | Google TV | XR image processor |
Philips OLED910 | Tandem OLED | 2200 | 144 Hz | Google TV | Ambilight, best sound from TV. |
Developed based on prices 01/20/2026 in the Media Expert network
Paweł Koper












