TV Buying Guide

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Technology Buyers Guide

With countless features and options, choosing the right TV can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.


1. Types of TVs

OLED TVs

  • Pros:
  • Deep blacks and high contrast.
  • Excellent color accuracy and viewing angles.
  • Fast response times for reduced motion blur.
  • Cons:
  • Expensive.
  • Risk of image retention or burn-in.
  • Can struggle with glare in bright rooms.

LCD/LED TVs

  • Pros:
  • Wide variety of brands, sizes, and prices.
  • Bright screens for rooms with natural light.
  • Anti-reflective options for glare reduction.
  • Cons:
  • Limited viewing angles.
  • Blacks may appear grayish.
  • Susceptible to motion blur.

2. How Big Should Your TV Be?

  • Recommended Viewing Distance:
  • Add 1 foot of viewing distance for every 10 inches of screen size.
  • Example: For a 55-inch TV, sit 5.5 feet away.

  • Field of View:

  • 30 to 40 degrees offers a cinematic experience.

  • Viewing Angle:

  • OLED TVs offer superior viewing from the side.
  • Many LCD TVs lose quality when viewed at an angle.

  • Mounting Considerations:

  • Wall mounts save space but complicate wiring.
  • Stands make it easier to access ports but require tip-over safety.

3. TV Resolution Options

  • 720p (HD):
  • Lowest resolution (1280x720 pixels).
  • Common in smaller TVs under 32 inches.

  • 1080p (Full HD):

  • Better for detailed visuals (1920x1080 pixels).
  • Suitable for smaller screens or dual-use as a monitor.

  • 4K (Ultra HD):

  • Standard for most TVs today (3840x2160 pixels).
  • Best for 65-inch screens and above.
  • Supports HDR for improved visuals.

  • 8K:

  • Ultra-high resolution (7680x4320 pixels).
  • Limited content and expensive; not recommended yet.

4. High Dynamic Range (HDR)

  • What It Does:
  • Improves brightness, contrast, and color accuracy.
  • Makes details more visible in shadows and highlights.

  • Formats:

  • HDR10: Supported by all HDR TVs.
  • Dolby Vision: Scene-by-scene brightness adjustments.
  • HDR10+: Dynamic metadata, like Dolby Vision.
  • HLG: For broadcast content.

5. When to Buy a TV

  • Best Times for Discounts:
  • Black Friday: Deepest discounts.
  • Before the Super Bowl: Great deals on large TVs.
  • Spring: New models launch, so older models are discounted.

6. Essential Features to Consider

  • Refresh Rate:
  • 60 Hz: Standard for most TVs.
  • 120 Hz or higher: Better for gaming and fast motion.

  • Smart TV Systems:

  • Integrated platforms like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, or LG webOS.
  • Offers streaming, voice control, and home automation compatibility.

  • Gaming Features:

  • ALLM: Auto Low Latency Mode reduces input lag.
  • VRR: Variable Refresh Rate prevents screen tearing.

  • Backlight Technology:

  • Direct LED: Basic option.
  • Edge LED: Slimmer design.
  • Full-Array with Local Dimming: Better contrast and blacks.
  • Mini LEDs: Smaller lights for improved brightness and detail.

7. Additional Considerations

  • Quantum Dots: Improve color brightness and saturation for LCD TVs.
  • ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV): New broadcast standard for higher-quality video and audio via antenna.
  • Energy Efficiency: Look for ENERGY STAR-rated TVs.

8. Top Tips for TV Shopping

Match Size to Room: Ensure the TV fits your space and seating distance.

Prioritize Picture Quality: Focus on resolution, HDR performance, and contrast.

Check Viewing Angles: OLEDs excel for wide seating arrangements.

Don’t Overpay for Extras: Choose features you’ll actually use.

Compare Prices: Take advantage of seasonal discounts for savings.

Upgrade your entertainment experience with the right TV, and enjoy immersive viewing like never before!


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Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you pick the perfect TV for your space, needs, and budget.


Types of TVs

OLED TVs
- Features: Superior contrast, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles.
- Best For: High-quality viewing in dim lighting.
- Price: Higher than LCD/LED models.

LCD/LED TVs
- Features: Bright screens, good for well-lit rooms, and more affordable.
- Variants: Include QLED and Mini LED for enhanced colors and brightness.


Choosing the Right TV Size

  • Field of View: A larger screen offers a more immersive experience. Aim for a 30°–40° field of view.
  • Distance: Add 1 foot of viewing distance for every 10 inches of screen size.
  • Example: Sit 5.5 feet away from a 55-inch TV.
  • Viewing Angles:
  • OLEDs offer unlimited angles.
  • LCDs may have narrower angles, though some models are improving.

Understanding TV Resolution

720p (HD): Entry-level, suitable for small TVs (32 inches or smaller).

1080p (Full HD): Good for secondary rooms or as a monitor.

4K (UHD): Standard for most TVs; best for larger screens (55 inches+).

8K: Expensive and unnecessary due to limited content availability.


High Dynamic Range (HDR)

  • What It Does: Improves brightness, contrast, and color accuracy for more lifelike images.
  • Formats:
  • HDR10: Universal standard.
  • Dolby Vision & HDR10+: Dynamic metadata adjusts brightness scene by scene.
  • HLG: For broadcast content.

When to Buy a TV

  • Best Deals:
  • Black Friday: Deep discounts.
  • Super Bowl Season: Sales two weeks before the game.
  • Spring: Discounts on older models as new ones arrive.

Key Features to Look For

Technology Terms
- Quantum Dots: Enhances colors for LCD TVs.
- Mini LEDs: Smaller LEDs for better black levels and contrast.
- Backlights: Full-array backlights with local dimming provide better picture quality.

Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz: Standard for entry-level TVs.
- 120 Hz or Higher: Better for gaming and fast-moving content.

Gaming Features
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode): Reduces input lag.
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate): Prevents screen tearing in games.

Smart Features
- Integrated platforms (Roku, Google TV, Fire TV, etc.) offer streaming and smart home integration.

NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0)
- Future-ready broadcasting technology for improved video and audio quality.


Wall-Mounting vs. TV Stand

  • Wall-Mounting: Saves space and enhances aesthetics. Ensure secure mounting to prevent accidents.
  • TV Stand: Easier access to ports and cables; secure to avoid tip-overs.

Tips for Buying

  • Room Lighting: OLEDs for darker rooms; LCD/LEDs for well-lit spaces.
  • Content Preferences: HDR and WCG for vivid movies and shows.
  • Usage: High refresh rates and low latency for gaming.

Invest in a TV that fits your viewing habits, space, and budget. With these tips, you’ll enjoy the perfect cinematic experience at home!


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