TCL Surpasses LG to Become the Second-Largest Player in the Premium TV Market

Samsung maintains its dominance with a robust 29% market share, although this marks a decrease from 41% at the end of 2023. The decline underscores the increasing competition within the sector, particularly from Chinese manufacturers like TCL and Hisense, who have been capitalizing on advancements in Mini-LED technology. This technology offers enhanced brightness and improved local dimming capabilities, making it a compelling alternative to OLED for consumers seeking high performance at a more accessible price point.

Despite TCL’s current success, future market dynamics remain uncertain. The introduction of new tariffs by the United States on Chinese products could potentially elevate prices for TCL’s offerings, possibly hindering their sales momentum. Additionally, while TCL aims to expand its presence in the OLED segment, industry leaders such as LG and Samsung continue to lead with more advanced OLED technologies. LG Display’s upcoming RGB-Tandem panels and Samsung’s QD-OLEDs capable of reaching up to 4,000 nits demonstrate the technological edge that these established brands maintain.

The surge in Mini-LED TV shipments, which have grown by 170% year-on-year, reflects a broader trend towards higher-resolution displays in the premium market. Although OLED TVs still offer superior pixel-level dimming and perfect black reproduction due to their self-emissive pixels, Mini-LED’s cost-effectiveness and improving performance have made it a strong contender. This technological evolution is reshaping consumer preferences, as the balance between price and performance becomes increasingly favorable for Mini-LED options.

Looking ahead to 2025, the premium TV market faces potential challenges from ongoing international trade tensions and global conflicts. These factors could influence supply chains and pricing structures, impacting the competitive landscape. As manufacturers continue to innovate and adapt, the future of the smart TV market will likely be defined by how well companies can navigate these complexities while meeting the evolving demands of discerning consumers.