As Black Friday approaches, UK shoppers are preparing for what could be the best time of year to upgrade their home entertainment systems. With numerous television deals hitting the market, it's crucial to distinguish between genuine bargains and clever marketing tactics designed to clear old stock.
Top Television Deals for Every Budget
The current Black Friday sales feature impressive discounts across various television categories, from budget-friendly options to premium models. Hisense U7Q Pro Mini LED 55-inch television has dropped to just £429 from its original £999 price, making it one of the most feature-rich options at this price point. This model boasts a bright Mini LED panel, 4K/144Hz gaming support, and Dolby Atmos audio capabilities.
For those seeking Amazon's ecosystem integration, the Fire Omni QLED 50-inch model is available for £299, down from £649. While it maxes out at 60Hz refresh rate, it offers comprehensive HDR support including Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ Adaptive.
Premium Television Offers
At the higher end of the market, significant savings can be found on premium OLED models. LG's B5 OLED 55-inch television represents the most affordable entry in the brand's 2025 lineup at £686.99, featuring four HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K/120Hz support and comprehensive HDR compatibility.
Sony's flagship Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 65-inch model has seen a substantial price reduction to £2,199, offering what many consider to be among the best picture quality currently available with claimed peak brightness of 4,000 nits.
Smart Shopping Strategies
Experts emphasise the importance of careful consideration before purchasing during Black Friday sales. Many retailers use the event to clear older inventory, which can represent excellent value if you're willing to accept last year's technology at a significantly reduced price.
When evaluating television deals, pay close attention to connectivity options. Budget models typically offer only three HDMI ports, which may prove limiting if you plan to connect multiple devices such as gaming consoles, streaming devices, and soundbars.
Gaming enthusiasts should specifically look for televisions supporting 120Hz refresh rates, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) to maximise their gaming experience with current-generation consoles.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Not all HDR capabilities are created equal. Entry-level televisions often lack the brightness necessary to properly display HDR content, potentially resulting in darker overall images when watching HDR programmes. Mid-range and premium models typically offer significantly better HDR performance.
Design considerations are also important, particularly if you're not planning to wall-mount your television. Cheaper models often feature flimsy plastic stands that may not adequately support larger screen sizes, potentially requiring additional furniture purchases.
Audio quality frequently suffers in budget televisions due to their slim designs. While some manufacturers incorporate enhanced audio technologies, many buyers will still benefit from pairing their new television with a soundbar or external speaker system.
The key to successful Black Friday television shopping lies in understanding your specific needs and researching potential purchases thoroughly before the sales begin. By focusing on verified price reductions and well-reviewed models rather than simply chasing the largest discounts, shoppers can ensure they're making genuinely valuable purchases that will provide satisfaction long after the Black Friday excitement has faded.
