Best CRT TVs for Retro Gaming in 2026
The best CRT TVs for retro gaming in 2026 are still the ones that actually exist. The golden rule in the retro community is simple: Any CRT is the best CRT. Everything else — size, sharpness, color accuracy, and price — is just personal preference.
If you’re just starting your CRT journey, don’t get overwhelmed by all the model numbers and forum debates. The most important step is getting on a real CRT as soon as possible. Modern flat screens, even with the best shaders and upscalers, still can’t match the authentic feel, scanlines, and zero input lag of a genuine CRT. Want Proof?
Consumer CRTs vs PVM vs BVM – The Real Differences
Consumer CRTs are the big, heavy tube televisions most of us grew up with (Sony Trinitron, Panasonic, Samsung, Toshiba, etc.). These are by far the most common and easiest to find in 2026. They usually offer large screen sizes (25–36 inches), good brightness, and that warm, nostalgic picture quality. For most retro gamers, a solid consumer CRT is more than enough and often the most practical choice. They’re cheaper, easier to move, and deliver that classic arcade/living-room feel.
PVMs (Professional Video Monitors) were built for broadcast and video production studios. They are generally smaller (13–20 inches) but deliver noticeably sharper images, better convergence, and more accurate colors than regular consumer TVs. Many experienced retro gamers prefer PVMs because they strike an excellent balance between picture quality and practicality. The scanlines are crisp, colors pop, and the overall image feels more “premium” while still retaining that authentic CRT soul.
BVMs (Broadcast Video Monitors) sit at the very top of the CRT hierarchy. These were the flagship professional monitors used in high-end studios and mastering facilities. BVMs offer the best possible sharpness, black levels, color accuracy, and geometry you can get from a CRT. They are the most sought-after monitors in the retro community, but they are also the rarest and most expensive. Owning a good working BVM is often considered “end-game” for serious retro gamers, but they are definitely not required to have an amazing experience.
How to Choose the Best CRT for Your Setup in 2026
Start with your budget and available space. A good condition 27-inch consumer CRT can give you years of enjoyment and costs very little. But a 27-inch CRT can take up a lot of space, for most 20-inch is the sweet spot. If you want something more refined, look for a PVM, these you can often find for a reasonable price in the 14-inch range. Only chase a BVM if you have the budget and patience — they can be tricky to find in good working condition.
Key things to check when buying any CRT:
- Overall physical condition (no major scratches or dents)
- Picture geometry (straight lines, no major warping)
- Convergence (colors should line up properly)
- Input types (RGB, Component, or S-Video preferred)
- Brightness and focus quality
Many people in 2026 start with a cheap consumer set, fall in love with the experience, and later upgrade to a PVM or BVM. There is no single “best” CRT — only the best one for you.
The most important thing is to actually start playing games on real hardware. Once you experience how incredible Super Mario World, Metal Gear Solid, or Jet Set Radio look and feel on a proper CRT, you’ll understand why so many of us refuse to go back to modern displays.
Final Advice: Don’t wait for the “perfect” monitor. Do some shopping around and grab a decent working CRT to start enjoying your games the way they were meant to be played.
Now check out some more comparisons!
