The Ultimate Smart TV Buying Guide: Essential Tips Nowadays

Editor: Diksha Yadav on Oct 30,2024

 

Choosing a suitable smart TV proves to be one of the deciding factors that come about when trying to upgrade the home entertainment aspect. However, technology evolution always equips these latest smart TVs with multiple attributes screen sizes and picture qualities that suit the general audience. It is, hence, regardless of whether a person belongs to the former category- a casual viewer or later, a cinephile, we let you go through everything as you read each word by heart. Now, let us break this down.

 1. Choose the Appropriate Screen Size for Your Room

The first thing you will have to choose is the size. From a perspective of measurement diagonal, the screens come as small as 32-inch models and as big as behemoths 85-inch and even more significant. You also depend on how far out your seating area goes, and the farther out you go, the larger it must be.

  •  Small Room: 32–50 inch/81–127 cm is perfect for a room viewing distance of at least 3–6 feet.
  • Medium Room: 50–65 inches/127- 165 cm is perfect for a viewing distance of 7–10 feet.
  • Large Room: 65 plus inches/165 plus is best suited for a room having a seating area more than 10 feet away.

Pro Tip: In a smaller room, you might choose a bigger wall-mount screen to take up less floor space and maximize the immersion experience.

 2. Resolution: 4K vs. 1080p (and Even 8K)

Resolution affects the clarity and detail of your picture. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more detailed your picture will be. Here are the most common resolutions available:

  •  1080p (Full HD): It is 1920 x 1080 pixels that are mainly used in budget models. The images appear clear but on a relatively more minor screen.
  • 4K (Ultra HD): It is 3840 x 2160 pixels, the new industry standard. Suitable for large screens as it provides more detailed and sharp images even at close range.
  • 8K: Although 8K resolution offers double the number of pixels of 4K, there is less available content, and unless one has an 80-inch+ screen, they often won't be able to see a difference. More people find a 4K resolution offers the most 'bang for their buck'

Pro Tip: For smaller screens, and virtually anyone looking to buy, except in extreme sizes, consider 4K; given that so much is still offered in 4K

3. Use HDR for More Color Depth and Natural Contrast

HDR is a technology that upgrades the color and contrast of visuals for a more lifelike and intense view. High dynamic range-enabled TVs can have more colorful expressions, and highlights shall appear bright and sharp and contribute to depth in images.

  • HDR10: The HDR standard format is one that most TVs use because this provides excellent contrast yet lacks some dynamic properties.
  • Dolby Vision: A dynamic HDR format that modulates brightness and color based on each scene, thereby providing an enhanced viewing experience, especially for movies.
  • HDR10+ and HLG: Alternatives to Dolby Vision; HDR10+ offers the same scene-by-scene adjustments

Pro Tip: Dolby Vision is highly recommended for home entertainment enthusiasts, but HDR10 will suffice if you are on a budget. 

4. Smart TV Operating System and User Interface

smart tv in home

Several types of OS are available for smart TVs. Therefore, there may be various problems related to apps - their availability and accessibility. Some of the OS are as follows: -

  •  WebOS: These belong to LG, seen as easy to use with loads of applications in support
  • Tizen: This is Samsung. It is highly responsive. Graphics is okay because of Samsung's Smart home system.
  • Android TV/Google TV (Sony, TCL): Google TV gives access to the Google Play Store and offers plenty of apps, plus built-in Google Assistant support.
  • Roku TV (TCL, Hisense): Budget-friendly and easy to use, with a massive selection of streaming apps available.

Pro Tip: If you are already locked into a Google or Apple ecosystem, you might lean towards Google TV or Apple TV compatibility since they are highly seamless with other smart home devices.

 5. Refresh Rate and Motion Clarity

The refresh rate determines how frequently the image changes on the screen per second. Your standard refresh rates are usually 60Hz and 120Hz.

  • 60Hz: Good enough for virtually all content, including TV, movies, and even casual viewings.
  • 120Hz: Excellent for action content, including sports and gaming, which reduces motion blur and produces a smoother viewing experience.

Pro Tip: Gamers and sports enthusiasts should seek TVs with a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother, blur-free motion.

 6. Audio Quality: Speakers and Sound Options

Modern TVs come in slim designs, and built-in audio quality suffers from this. Here are some options to ensure you get high-quality sound:

  • Soundbar: One of the most popular add-ons that enhance audio without taking up much space.
  • Surround Sound Systems: Ideal for creating an immersive sound experience in larger rooms.
  • Built-In Sound: Some high-end TVs come with Dolby Atmos or AI-powered audio, enhancing the sound without extra equipment.

Pro Tip: Consider investing in a soundbar for improved audio quality, especially for larger rooms.

 7. Smart Home Compatibility

Smart TVs are now connected to various smart home ecosystems, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This way, you can control your TV using voice commands, connect to other smart devices, and even use your TV as a central hub for your smart home.

 Pro Tip: If you already have a smart home setup, look for a TV that integrates with your preferred ecosystem, making it easier to manage all your devices seamlessly.

 8. Connectivity: HDMI, USB, and Other Ports

The number and type of ports are crucial for connecting devices like gaming consoles, soundbars, and streaming sticks.

  •  HDMI Ports: At least three HDMI ports are recommended to accommodate multiple devices.
  • USB Ports: Super for connecting peripheral storage or devices.
  • eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel): The streaming quality will be far superior, ideal for use in a compatible home theater.
  • Ethernet Port: For very consistent internet connectivity; good for 4K.

Pro Tip: Your television must support HDMI 2.1 with greater bandwidth. It is perfect for future next-gen gaming consoles and 4K content.

9. Energy Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

As TVs get bigger and brighter, energy consumption can go up. Look for models with Energy Star ratings or features like automatic power-saving mode to reduce energy use without sacrificing performance.

Pro Tip: Look for TVs with "Eco Mode" or similar settings, which adjust brightness based on ambient light and save energy.

10. Pricing and Brand Reliability

With so many options, the prices can vary depending on brand and features. The best warranties and quality guarantees come from big brands such as Samsung, Sony, and LG; however, budget-friendly choices like TCL and Hisense also have good performance.

 Budget Ranges to Consider:

  •  Budget (Under $500): Basic models often with smaller screens (32–55 inches) and 1080p or entry-level 4K resolution.
  • Mid-Range ($500–$1,200): Includes most popular 4K models with HDR and smart TV features.
  • Premium ($1,200+): Top-of-the-line 4K and 8K with features such as OLED, Dolby Vision, and premium sound.

Pro Tip: Look for extended warranties or return policies, especially on premium models.

 Best Smart TV Picks for 2024 in the US

1. Samsung QN90A Neo QLED (Best Overall)

It is a QLED panel and Neo Quantum Processor TV that offers the brightest and most color-accurate picture for any room.

 2. LG C2 OLED (Best for Cinematic Experience)

LG C2 OLED is one of the best TVs, perfect for home theaters and movie enthusiasts who enjoy cinematic visual effects. 

3. Sony A95K (Best for Gamers)

It has incredible motion handling and a 120Hz refresh rate, and it has HDMI 2.1 support, so it's a dream for the gamer.

4. TCL 6-Series Roku TV

This is your budget pick. It brings you 4K HDR along with a user interface. So, it delivers excellent value for money to anyone looking for quality at budget-friendly prices.

Final Thoughts

Buying a smart TV in 2024 is a thrilling but complicated affair with so many choices and options available. Remember, the best smart TV will depend on your budget and your entertainment needs. Based on screen size, resolution, refresh rate, intelligent features, and audio, you're going to find a fantastic home entertainment system that meets all your needs. Well, happy shopping and get to enjoy the experience you've been waiting for!


This content was created by AI