Get better color accuracy on your TV with these simple steps

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Built with displays capable of recreating tens of millions of colors across multiple color gamuts like DCI-P3 and BT.2020, most, if not all, newer smart TVs have fairly decent color accuracy right out of the box. However, if you want to push your fancy new OLED or Micro RGB TV to the limit, or just want to squeeze the most out of your older QLED or Mini LED, there are a few ways you can make your picture look even better without having to resort to an expensive professional calibration.

Also: We tested 7 TVs for color accuracy and we found two winners

To help you get the best color accuracy possible without having to spend a dime, I've put together a list of simple settings adjustments you can make to fine-tune your preferences.

Color temperature refers to how "warm" or "cool" your picture looks, with "cool" leaning toward more blue and green hues, while "warm" is often more yellow and red. Many TVs from both well-known and smaller brands offer at least basic tools for selecting the color temperature that best suits your space (and is easiest on your eyes).

The simplest way to choose a color temperature range is to cycle through the preset picture modes. Modes like Filmmaker, Cinema/Movie, and Eye Saver will favor warmer colors, which helps to make scenes look more lively and reduces eye strain. Others like Night mode and Sports will run cooler while Standard, Vivid, and Eco modes tend to be more neutral.