How to Choose the Right TV for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best TVs

Overview

Navigating the world of televisions can be overwhelming. With options ranging from size and resolution to features and accessories, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive buying guide to help you find the perfect TV for your needs. We’ll discuss everything from the basics of choosing a television, such as screen size and resolution, to the more advanced features and accessories available. We’ll also discuss the different types of TVs and the technologies behind them. With this guide, you’ll be equipped to make an informed and educated decision when it’s time to buy.

Key features

  1. Screen size: The size of the display screen, usually measured in inches diagonally from corner to corner.
  2. Resolution: The number of individual pixels making up the image, usually measured by width x height (i.e. 1920 x 1080). The higher the resolution, the sharper the picture.
  3. Display technology: The type of technology used to display the image. Popular options include LED, OLED, and QLED.
  4. Refresh rate: The refresh rate indicates how many times per second the image on the screen is refreshed. Higher refresh rates mean the image will look more fluid and less choppy.
  5. Inputs and outputs: TVs come with different types of inputs and outputs to connect other devices. Some common ones are HDMI, USB, component video, and optical.
  6. Smart features: Some TVs come with built-in streaming apps, voice control, and other “smart” features. Make sure to check the features you need before buying.

See the most popular TVs on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Screen size - TVs come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to consider how much space you have available and how far away from the screen people will usually be sitting.
  • Resolution - Resolution is an important factor when it comes to image quality. A higher resolution means more pixels, which translates to sharper and clearer images.
  • HDR - High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology can improve image quality by making colors look more vivid and lifelike.
  • Refresh rate - Refresh rate is the number of frames per second a TV can display. High refresh rates increase the smoothness of fast-moving images.
  • Connectivity - Many TVs come with a variety of ports, including HDMI, USB, and Ethernet, so you can connect to other devices and access streaming services or content.
  • Smart features - Smart TVs allow you to access the internet, stream content, and even control other connected devices.
  • Sound quality - Look for TVs with high-quality audio to get the most out of movies and music.
  • Price - TVs come in a range of prices, so you should consider your budget and determine what features you are willing to sacrifice in order to stay within it.

Cons

  • Cost: TVs can be expensive, and the more features they have the higher the price.
  • Size: TVs can take up a lot of space, so it’s important to measure the area where the TV will be placed before purchase.
  • Picture Quality: High resolution TVs vary in quality, so research into the best models is important.
  • Lifespan: TVs usually have a limited lifespan, so regular maintenance and repairs may be necessary.
  • Image Retention: Image retention can occur if the same image is displayed for too long, causing burn-in.
  • Lack of Privacy: TVs with built-in cameras may compromise user privacy.
  • Input Lag: Some TVs may have input lag, resulting in a delay between when an action is performed and when it is displayed on the screen.

Best alternatives

  1. Projectors - An alternative to a TV, projectors can give you a much larger display, but require more set-up and a darker environment.
  2. Monitors - Monitors are a great option for those seeking a larger display and more accurate color accuracy, but may not have the same level of features as a TV.
  3. Smart Displays - Smart Displays are a newer option that has become popular. These are usually a large tablet-like device that includes voice control and apps.
  4. Streaming Devices - Streaming devices are a great option for those looking to get the most out of their streaming services, as they offer dedicated access to popular services like Netflix or Hulu.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Cables/Adapters/Cords - Various cables, adapters, and cords used to connect the TV to an audio/video device, antenna, or various other devices.
  • TV Stand - A stand or mount to place the TV on for optimal viewing.
  • Remote Control - A device used to control the TV from a distance.
  • Surge Protector - An outlet strip that provides protection to plugged-in devices from power surges.
  • HDMI Switcher - A device used to switch between multiple HDMI sources connected to the TV.
  • Soundbar - An audio device that is connected to the TV to provide enhanced sound quality.
  • Blu-Ray Player - A device used to play Blu-Ray discs on the TV.
  • Wall Mount - A wall mount used to secure the TV to the wall.
  • Wireless Network Adapter - A device used to connect the TV to a wireless network.
  • Cleaning Supplies - Cleaning supplies like microfiber cloths, cleaning solutions, and dusters used to keep the TV clean.

Common questions

  1. What screen size should I get? The screen size you choose depends on how far away you will be sitting from the TV. If you will be sitting close, a smaller screen size is ideal, but if you plan to sit far away, you may want to opt for a larger one.
  2. What are refresh rates? Refresh rate is the measure of how many times a TV can change the image on the screen in a second. Generally, a higher refresh rate will result in smoother motion when watching fast-action video or playing video games.
  3. What is the difference between LED and OLED? LED TVs are LCD TVs that use backlighting to produce the brightest images. OLED TVs do not require backlighting and instead use organic light-emitting diodes that create light and color on their own.
  4. What is HDR? HDR stands for High Dynamic Range and is a technology that increases the range of brightness, contrast, and color when displaying video content. It creates a much more vivid and detailed picture than standard dynamic range TVs.
  5. Which sound system is better for TVs? The best sound system for TVs depends on your needs. If you are looking for more sound quality, a soundbar is a great option. If you are looking for a more immersive experience, a home theater system is the way to go.
  6. What features should I look for? Some of the features you should look for when buying a TV include resolution, color accuracy, refresh rate, HDR, connectivity options, and sound quality.

Trivia

An interesting fact about TVs is that the very first television commercial aired in the United States was for Bulova Watches in 1941. The commercial cost the company $9 and ran for 10 seconds. The commercial, which showed a map of the United States with a clock superimposed, aired during a baseball game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Brooklyn Dodgers. The commercial is credited with sparking the use of television for advertising and helping to make it the major advertising medium it is today. Source: ThoughtCo.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.