Samsung Vs Sharp Tvs Are Sharp Tvs Still Worth Buying In 2024

When it comes to choosing a new television, two names often surface: Samsung and Sharp. Samsung has cemented itself as a global leader in display technology, consistently pushing the envelope with innovations in QLED, Neo QLED, and smart TV ecosystems. Sharp, once a dominant force in the CRT and early LCD era, now occupies a more modest position—often associated with budget-friendly models and private-label manufacturing. But does that mean Sharp TVs are obsolete in 2024? Or can they still deliver value for cost-conscious buyers?

This article compares Samsung and Sharp TVs across key categories: display technology, smart platform performance, build quality, pricing, and real-world usability. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of where each brand stands today and whether a Sharp TV is still a sensible purchase.

Display Technology and Picture Quality

Samsung leads the market in display innovation. Its QLED panels offer high peak brightness, wide color gamut, and excellent HDR performance—ideal for both bright living rooms and dark home theaters. The company’s use of quantum dot technology enhances color volume, while full-array local dimming (FALD) in higher-end Neo QLED models improves contrast significantly.

In contrast, most Sharp TVs released in 2024 rely on standard LED-backlit LCD panels. While some models carry the \"AQUOS\" branding—a legacy line known for solid image processing—they typically lack advanced backlighting systems and quantum dot enhancements. As a result, their black levels and contrast ratios fall short when compared to even mid-tier Samsung models.

Tip: If you watch a lot of HDR content or enjoy cinematic experiences, prioritize TVs with at least basic local dimming and high peak brightness—features rarely found in current Sharp models.

That said, Sharp does license its panel technology to other manufacturers, and some budget Samsung TVs actually use LCD panels originally developed by Sharp. This creates an ironic situation: you might be paying more for a Samsung-branded set that uses similar foundational hardware to a cheaper Sharp model—but with better tuning, software, and overall optimization.

Smart Features and User Experience

The smart TV experience is where the gap between Samsung and Sharp becomes most apparent. Samsung uses Tizen OS, a polished, responsive platform with access to all major streaming apps (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, Hulu), voice assistants (Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant), and seamless integration with smartphones and smart home devices.

Tizen offers regular updates, intuitive navigation, and useful features like Multi View and Tap View for screen sharing. It also supports AirPlay 2 and HomeKit, making it one of the most versatile platforms for Apple users.

Sharp TVs, on the other hand, primarily run either Android TV (in older models) or Fire TV (in newer ones). While Fire TV provides access to Amazon’s vast app ecosystem and strong voice control via Alexa, the implementation on Sharp sets is often underpowered. Users frequently report lag, slow app loading, and inconsistent updates. Many Sharp models ship with outdated versions of Fire TV and receive minimal long-term software support.

“Smart TV performance isn’t just about apps—it’s about responsiveness and longevity. A sluggish interface can ruin even a decent picture.” — David Lin, Consumer Electronics Analyst at TechInsight Weekly

Build Quality and Design

Samsung invests heavily in industrial design. Even entry-level models feature slim profiles, narrow bezels, and premium finishes. Higher-end sets come with flush-mount backs, minimalist stands, and anti-reflective coatings. Build consistency across regions is also strong due to centralized manufacturing and quality control.

Sharp TVs tend to feel more utilitarian. Plastics dominate the chassis, and stands are often flimsy or angular. While not inherently unreliable, the materials and assembly don’t convey the same sense of durability or elegance. Some users report creaking cabinets or loose ports over time, especially in sub-$400 models.

However, Sharp still manufactures select high-end AQUOS LCDs in Japan, which are sold exclusively in Asian markets. These sets boast superior panel quality, metal construction, and advanced processing chips. Unfortunately, these models are not widely available internationally and do not represent the Sharp TVs most consumers encounter in 2024.

Price-to-Performance Comparison

Where Sharp remains competitive is price. You can find Sharp 4K TVs starting around $250 for a 50-inch model, whereas a comparable Samsung The Frame or Crystal UHD starts closer to $450. For buyers on a tight budget or those needing a secondary TV for a bedroom or kitchen, Sharp offers basic functionality at an accessible price point.

But lower cost often means trade-offs: limited brightness, weaker upscaling, fewer HDMI 2.1 ports, and no variable refresh rate (VRR) or auto low latency mode (ALLM) for gaming. Samsung’s budget models, while more expensive, still include better processors, improved motion handling, and future-ready connectivity.

Feature	Samsung (Mid-Tier)	Sharp (Current Lineup)
Panel Type	QLED / LED with Quantum Processor	Standard LED-LCD
Smart Platform	Tizen OS (fast, updated)	Fire TV (slower, limited updates)
HDR Support	Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG	HLG, HDR10 (no Dolby Vision)
Gaming Features	ALLM, VRR, FreeSync	None
Audio	Object Tracking Sound Lite	Basic stereo speakers
Starting Price (55\")	$500	$350

Real-World Example: Choosing for a Secondary TV

Consider Mark, a homeowner upgrading his living room with a 65-inch Samsung Q70C. He needs a smaller TV for his basement gym. His priorities: reliable streaming, compact size, and under $400.

He considers a 50-inch Sharp LC-50SA7000U. It runs Fire TV, connects to Wi-Fi, and plays YouTube and Netflix without issue. However, he notices the picture looks washed out during daytime workouts, the remote lags when switching inputs, and there’s no Bluetooth for wireless headphones.

A few weeks later, he finds a refurbished Samsung 50-inch TU-8000 on sale for $380. Despite being older, it runs Tizen smoothly, has better contrast, includes Bluetooth, and supports Apple AirPlay. Though slightly more expensive, it delivers a noticeably better daily experience.

This scenario reflects a broader trend: Sharp TVs work, but Samsung’s ecosystem advantages often justify the modest price difference—even in budget segments.

Checklist: Is a Sharp TV Right for You?

• ✅ Need a TV strictly for casual viewing (news, YouTube, basic streaming)
• ✅ Budget is under $300 and no alternative fits
• ✅ Using external devices (soundbar, Roku, cable box) so internal performance matters less
• ❌ Want vibrant colors, deep blacks, or HDR content accuracy
• ❌ Plan to use voice commands or smart home integrations regularly
• ❌ Prioritize long-term software updates or smooth interface performance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Sharp TVs still make their own panels?

Partially. Sharp designs and manufactures some LCD panels, particularly for niche or regional markets. However, many Sharp-branded TVs sold in North America use third-party panels (often from China) and are assembled by OEM partners. Their role is more brand licensing than full vertical integration.

Are Sharp TVs reliable over time?

Generally, yes—but with caveats. Hardware failure rates are comparable to other budget brands, but software stagnation is a concern. Many Sharp models don’t receive OS updates beyond one year, leaving them vulnerable and outdated within two to three years.

Can I improve a Sharp TV’s performance with an external streamer?

Absolutely. Adding a Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast bypasses the weak internal processor and Fire TV interface. If you go this route, focus on the TV’s HDMI quality and input lag rather than its built-in smarts. In such cases, a Sharp can serve as a functional display at a low cost.

Final Verdict: Are Sharp TVs Worth Buying in 2024?

Sharp TVs are not “bad” in an absolute sense. They turn on, display 4K content, and connect to the internet. For someone who needs a no-frills screen for occasional use and cannot stretch beyond $300, a Sharp may suffice—especially if paired with an external streaming device.

But in nearly every category—picture quality, smart features, design, and long-term usability—Samsung offers superior value. Even Samsung’s entry-level models benefit from better calibration, stronger processors, and a commitment to software support. The brand’s ecosystem integration also enhances convenience across devices.

Unless you’re buying purely on price and accept the limitations, Samsung represents a smarter investment. Sharp remains visible in retail spaces, but its relevance in the modern TV landscape has diminished. It’s no longer a top contender; it’s a compromise.

🚀 Ready to upgrade your viewing experience? Compare certified refurbished Samsung models or explore open-box deals—you might get premium features at near-budget prices. Don’t settle for mediocrity when excellence is within reach.