The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Smart TV

A Smart TV is a modern television that connects to the internet to provide access to streaming services, apps, and online content directly on the screen. Unlike traditional TVs, Smart TVs allow users to watch videos, browse the web, and interact with various apps without needing external devices. They often come with built-in Wi-Fi, app stores, and voice control features, making entertainment more convenient and personalized. Smart TVs also support screen mirroring and integration with other smart home devices, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Screen Size:

Smart TVs screen size refers to the diagonal length of the television display, measured in inches from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner. It does not represent the width or height of the TV. The screen size helps determine how large the picture will appear and is an important factor when choosing a TV based on the size of the room and the viewing distance. Larger screen sizes provide a more immersive viewing experience, especially when paired with higher resolutions like 4K or 8K.

• The size should be determined by the viewing distance and room dimensions.
• For 4K TVs, sit at a distance that is 1.5 times the screen's diagonal measurement.
• For example, a 55-inch TV would be ideal for a viewing distance of about 6.8 feet.
• Consider the space available for the TV and the furniture arrangement in your room.

Resolution: 

Resolution refers to the number of pixels (tiny dots of color) that make up the picture on a TV screen. It’s usually written as width × height (in pixels)

• 4K UHD (Ultra High Definition): 4K Smart TVs Offers a sharp and detailed picture, making it a popular choice for most viewers.
• 8K UHD: 8K Smart TVs Provides even higher resolution, but the content availability and price point may be higher.
• Full HD (1080p): Full HD Smart TVs Suitable for smaller screens or for those on a tighter budget.

HDR (High Dynamic Range):

HDR stands for High Dynamic Range. It’s a TV technology that enhances the contrast, brightness, and color range of the picture, making images look more realistic, vivid, and detailed.

• Enhances the contrast and color range of the picture, creating a more vibrant and realistic image.
• Look for TVs that support HDR10 or Dolby Vision for optimal performance.

Smart TV Capabilities:

A Smart TV is a television that connects to the internet and allows you to access online content, apps, and services directly from your TV screen — no need for external devices like streaming boxes.

• Smart TVs offer built-in access to streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu
• Consider the operating system (OS) of the smart TV, as some offer better app support and user interfaces.
• Common OS options include TizenOS, AndroidOS, WebOS, ViddaOS.

Refresh Rate:

The difference between 60Hz and 120Hz refers to the refresh rate of a TV screen, which is the number of times the image on the screen is refreshed per second. A 60Hz TV refreshes the image 60 times per second, while a 120Hz TV does it 120 times per second. This higher refresh rate on 120Hz TVs results in smoother motion, especially noticeable during fast-moving scenes like sports, action movies, or video games. It reduces motion blur and makes the picture appear more fluid. In contrast, 60Hz is suitable for regular viewing like TV shows and movies, but may show slight motion blur in fast-paced content.

• A higher refresh rate (e.g., 120Hz) can provide smoother motion, especially for fast-paced content like sports or gaming.
• Most TVs with High-Frame Rate support of 60Hz are ideal

Sound:

The sound system in a Smart TV refers to the built-in speakers and audio technology used to deliver sound from the TV. While Smart TVs offer advanced picture quality, their built-in sound systems vary in quality depending on the model and brand.

• Consider the built-in speakers or invest in a soundbar or home theater system for a more immersive audio experience.
• Some TVs offer advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos for a more three-dimensional sound.

Viewing Distance: 

Viewing distance is the optimal space between your eyes and the TV screen for the best picture quality and comfortable viewing. It depends on the screen size and resolution of the TV.

• The optimal TV viewing distance depends on the TV's screen size and resolution, as well as personal preference. For a more immersive experience, sit closer, but ensure the screen fills a comfortable portion of your field of vision.