It is possible for a 4K smart TV to play 8K content through a process called upscaling. Upscaling is when a TV converts lower resolution content to a higher resolution, in this case, 4K to 8K. The best 8K TVs can deliver better picture quality even with 4K and good quality HD sources than the best 4K TVs. This is because 8K TVs have more pixels to work with, which allows them to provide more detail and depth to the picture. Samsung has demonstrated this by putting two 85-inch TVs side by side, one playing 4K content in 4K and the other upscaling 4K content to 8K. The difference was apparent with the upscaled 4K video playing on the 8K TV. However, it is important to note that 8K content is still relatively rare, and the vast majority of content on broadcast TV and streaming platforms is lower than 8K. This means that 8K TVs must interpolate a huge percentage of pixels to make up the difference.
In terms of 8K TVs, LG's webOS 60 offers the best smart features available and has 8K upscaling that allows 4K and even 1080p content to be enjoyed on the ultra HD screen. The TV supports HDMI 2.1 bandwidth for 8K 60Hz and 4K 120Hz gaming on all four of its inputs. However, the lack of VRR support limits its gaming capabilities. It is also important to note that there is very little 8K content available, and most content will need to be upscaled. Therefore, an 8K TV's upscaling performance is even more important than ever before. While 8K TVs are the future and more content is being made in 8K, as of now, you might be better suited to a 4K TV while your favorite movies and TV shows catch up.