5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Smart TV

Buying Advice Smart TV deviceassess December 13, 2024

Introduction

Thinking about buying a new Smart TV? With countless models on the market, making the right choice can be overwhelming. From screen resolution to built-in features, there’s a lot to consider before making an investment. A Smart TV is not just a screen; it’s the centerpiece of your entertainment hub. To help you make an informed decision, let’s dive into the five most important factors to consider before buying a Smart TV.

1. Display Technology and Resolution

The display is the most critical aspect of any TV. The right technology and resolution determine how immersive your viewing experience will be.

LED vs. OLED vs. QLED

LED TVs are the most common, offering good brightness and energy efficiency.
OLED TVs deliver deeper blacks and better contrast, perfect for dark-room viewing.
QLED TVs (by Samsung) enhance color vibrancy and brightness using quantum dots.

4K vs. 8K Resolution

4K (Ultra HD) is now the standard, providing crisp and detailed visuals.
8K TVs offer four times the resolution of 4K but are expensive and lack native content.

For most buyers, a 4K OLED or QLED TV strikes the best balance between performance and price.

2. Screen Size and Viewing Distance

Bigger isn’t always better—choosing the right screen size depends on your viewing distance and room size.

Finding the Right Size

A simple rule: your viewing distance (in inches) divided by 1.5 gives you an ideal TV size.
For example:

6 feet (72 inches) away → 48-inch to 55-inch TV
8 feet (96 inches) away → 55-inch to 65-inch TV
10 feet (120 inches) away → 65-inch to 75-inch TV

For small apartments, a 50-55 inch TV is a safe bet. If you have a large living room, 65 inches or more will create a cinematic experience.

3. Smart Features and Operating System

Your TV should do more than just display content—it should integrate seamlessly into your smart home.

Operating Systems to Consider

Android TV (Google TV) – Vast app selection, Google Assistant, Chromecast support.
WebOS (LG) – User-friendly, fast, supports major streaming apps.
Tizen (Samsung) – Clean interface, works well with Samsung devices.
Roku TV – Affordable, great for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu.

Built-in AI and Voice Assistants

Many Smart TVs now come with Google Assistant, Alexa, or Siri built-in. This allows you to control the TV using voice commands, making navigation effortless.

Streaming and App Compatibility

Ensure your TV supports essential apps like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Spotify. Some budget models may lack app compatibility, limiting your entertainment options.

4. Connectivity and Ports

A Smart TV is only as good as its connectivity options. Ensure it has the necessary ports for your needs.

Essential Ports to Look For

HDMI Ports – At least 3 HDMI ports for connecting gaming consoles, soundbars, or streaming devices.
USB Ports – Useful for plugging in external hard drives or accessories.
Bluetooth & Wi-Fi – Enables wireless connection to sound systems, keyboards, and the internet.
Ethernet Port – A wired connection for faster, more stable internet streaming.

If you plan to use gaming consoles or sound systems, prioritize TVs with HDMI 2.1 for better performance.

5. Price vs. Performance

Finding the right balance between cost and features is crucial.

Budget Considerations

Under $500 – Basic 4K LED TVs, decent for casual viewing.
$500 – $1,000 – Mid-range 4K QLED models with better brightness and colors.
$1,000+ – Premium OLED, 8K, and advanced gaming TVs with top-tier performance.

Best Value-for-Money Brands

Budget-friendly – TCL, Hisense
Mid-range – Samsung, LG
High-end – Sony, LG OLED, Samsung QLED

If you’re looking for a TV that will last 5+ years, spending a little extra now on OLED or QLED will be worth it in the long run.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Smart TV involves more than just picking the biggest screen in your budget. You need to consider display quality, screen size, smart features, connectivity, and price to get the best value. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a home theater enthusiast, making an informed choice ensures a top-notch entertainment experience. Now that you know what to look for, go ahead and find the perfect Smart TV for your needs!