Large OLED TVs of 48 inches are underappreciated, as it appears that significant manufacturers show ambivalence toward them—some championing their virtues while others express indifference or criticism.
In the ever-evolving world of television technology, a notable change has occurred in the 2025 lineups of major manufacturers. Philips, a brand known for its high-quality OLED TVs, has decided to focus on larger screen sizes, leaving a gap in the market for consumers seeking smaller, mid-sized OLED TVs.
The 48-inch OLED TV market is a niche compared to larger sets like 100-inch models, but it still holds a significant appeal for those with smaller living spaces. Philips' decision to discontinue smaller OLED TVs, such as the 42-inch and 48-inch models, in favour of only larger screen sizes like the 77-inch OLED810 in the UK, is a departure from its previous practice.
Other manufacturers like LG, Samsung, Sony, and Panasonic continue to offer smaller OLED screen sizes, including 48-inch models, as part of their 2025 lineups. This suggests that Philips’ move to focus on larger OLEDs primarily targets a niche of buyers with larger living spaces, rather than reflecting a broader market shift away from smaller OLED TVs.
For consumers seeking 48-inch OLED TVs, Philips' decision leaves them with fewer options, particularly in key markets like the UK. Those who loved Philips’ earlier mid-sized OLED TVs must now consider either moving to larger, potentially more expensive models or switching brands. The scarcity of smaller OLED sizes from certain brands may also increase demand and prices for 48-inch OLED TVs from competitors.
One such competitor is Sony, which continues to rely on the A90K as its smaller OLED model, despite its relatively high price tag. The A90K, while still a quality option, is starting to lag behind due to picture processing upgrades in Sony's newer processors. The author is waiting to see if Philips' XL OLED gamble will pay off and for Sony to announce a successor to the A90K.
In the meantime, other brands are stepping up to the plate. Samsung has submitted the S90F, and Panasonic has submitted the Z90B, both of which are shaping up to be worthy adversaries to LG's award-winning model. Comparatively, 48-inch OLEDs are a niche in a market where 100-inch sets are becoming increasingly normalised.
The sweet spot for OLED TVs remains at 55- and 65-inches, while the smaller sets, namely the 42-inch and 48-inch sizes, aren't as popular. However, for those who appreciate a cinematic experience without taking up much space, smaller OLED TVs are a worthwhile investment.
The author, a fan of Philips TVs, questions if this decision is the right one, particularly considering the author's newfound appreciation for smaller OLED TVs after testing three 48-inch OLED TVs in an AV testing facility. The author looks forward to seeing how the market evolves and what new offerings will be available for consumers seeking high-quality mid-sized OLED TVs.
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- With Philips discontinuing smaller OLED TVs and focusing on larger screen sizes, consumers seeking 48-inch OLED TVs may turn to brands like Sony that still offer such models, such as the A90K.
- In the constantly evolving world of technology, other manufacturers like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Panasonic are continuing to offer smaller OLED screen sizes, including 48-inch models, as part of their 2025 lineups.
- The author, having tested three 48-inch OLED TVs in an AV testing facility, finds themselves questioning Philips' decision to discontinue smaller OLED TVs in favour of larger screen sizes.
- The scarcity of smaller OLED sizes from certain brands like Philips may increase demand and prices for 48-inch OLED TVs from competitors, such as Sony's A90K.
- Gadget enthusiasts following news in the technology sector may be interested to see how Philips' XL OLED gamble will unfold and if Sony will announce a successor to the A90K.
- Growing trends toward smart-home devices and gadgets may make smaller OLED TVs, like the 48-inch models, a valuable addition to a modern, space-conscious home setup, despite their niche status compared to larger sets.
