1. Size Matters (But Measure First!)
- Know Your Space: It’s tempting to go big, but don’t get a TV too large for your room—it can overwhelm the space and strain your eyes. Measure the distance from your viewing area to the screen. A general rule of thumb is that your TV should be around half the viewing distance in inches. For instance, if you’re sitting 8 feet (96 inches) away, a 48-50 inch TV is ideal.
- Resolution Correlation: Bigger screens generally benefit from higher resolutions, so if you’re going for a 65-inch or larger TV, 4K is a must for a crisp, clear picture.
2. Resolution: 1080p vs. 4K vs. 8K
- 1080p (Full HD): Still decent for smaller TVs, but it’s starting to show its age. Full HD works well for TVs up to 40 inches if you’re on a budget or don’t plan to watch a lot of high-definition content.
- 4K (Ultra HD): Now the standard. 4K TVs offer four times the resolution of Full HD, giving you sharper images, more detail, and vibrant colors. Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ have tons of 4K content, so it’s worth the investment.
- 8K: The new kid on the block. With four times the resolution of 4K, 8K is incredibly sharp but currently has limited content and a high price tag. Only consider this if you’re a tech enthusiast wanting the best, future-proof setup.
3. Display Types: LED, OLED, or QLED?
- LED: Standard LED TVs are bright and affordable, but they lack deep blacks and color contrast. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, LED works for most rooms.
- OLED: OLED TVs deliver deep blacks and vibrant colors thanks to their self-lighting pixels. Ideal for movie lovers, but they’re pricier and less bright than LED, which might not be ideal for bright rooms.
- QLED: Quantum LED, developed by Samsung, uses quantum dots to boost brightness and color. It’s a solid middle ground between LED and OLED, providing bright, colorful pictures at a relatively reasonable price.
4. Smart Features: Necessary or Just Nice-to-Have?
- Integrated Streaming: Most new TVs are “smart,” meaning they come with built-in apps for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and more. Check that the operating system (e.g., Roku TV, Android TV, Tizen) supports the services you use most.
- Voice Control: Many smart TVs now come with voice-activated remotes or compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. This is handy for hands-free control and searching for content quickly.
- App Ecosystem: Make sure your preferred apps and services are available on the TV’s OS. Some operating systems are more versatile than others.
5. Refresh Rate: The Key to Smooth Motion
- 60Hz vs. 120Hz: Refresh rate is the number of times your TV refreshes the image per second. A 60Hz rate is standard, but if you watch a lot of sports or play video games, a 120Hz refresh rate will make motion smoother.
- Motion Smoothing: Some TVs have a “motion smoothing” feature to reduce blur, but this can make movies look unnatural, aka the “soap opera effect.” Look for TVs that allow you to turn this off if needed.
6. HDMI and Ports: Don’t Overlook the Details
- HDMI 2.1: For gamers and future-proofing, HDMI 2.1 supports 4K at 120Hz and offers enhanced audio return channel (eARC) for better sound. Essential if you plan to use a gaming console or soundbar.
- USB and Other Ports: Make sure you have enough HDMI and USB ports for all your devices (gaming consoles, streaming sticks, soundbars, etc.) and that they’re easily accessible.
7. Audio Quality: Do You Need a Soundbar?
- Built-in TV speakers are notoriously lackluster, especially on slim TVs. For a true home theater experience, consider a soundbar or an external audio system. Look for TVs with eARC support if you’re connecting a soundbar for the best audio quality.
8. Brand and Price Range: What Fits Your Budget?
- Popular Brands: Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL are leaders in the market with various options for different budgets. Research reviews and reliability for peace of mind.
- Budget: Set a budget before you start shopping. There’s a great TV at every price point, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better. Focus on what you need rather than flashy extras.
Kyren Wilson
