Buying guide for Best smart TVs
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Way back when the iPhone first introduced the world to apps, no one could have predicted that apps would soon take over nearly every screen, but now they’re everywhere, even TVs.
TVs with apps, dubbed smart TVs, can connect to the internet as well as interact with other web-enabled devices. They deliver everything from your favorite binge-worthy shows to the most addictive games. In fact, now when you buy a TV, you’re not just buying a screen; you’re buying an entertainment platform. Understandably, then, you would want to learn more about the details: which type to get, how much to expect to pay, and how to make the most of your investment.
What's the difference between a smart TV and a regular TV?
Smart TVs wirelessly connect to the internet to provide access to streaming services and other online portals. There are two main means by which a TV can be smart. High-end companies boast their own smart platform that they include in their TVs. These are typically more expensive than TVs that integrate another company’s smart platform. These popular options include Android TV by Google, Fire TV by Amazon, and Roku TV. While these options are versatile and accessible, they are not as fast as the higher-end options.
Streaming TV and movies
By far the most popular apps are those that connect viewers to their favorite subscription-based streaming services. The smart platform allows you access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+, Hulu, Paramount+ or any other major service, so you can start bingeing your favorite TV shows in no time.
Games and social media
If you’re a fan of mobile games like Candy Crush or Farmville, you’ll find a lot to love with this kind of TV. Many of today’s options support popular titles imported from Android and iOS smartphones. Just be prepared for the fact that, in some cases, you’ll need to use the TV remote as a game controller, which can feel clunky at first.
Depending on the smart platform, you may have access to social media services as well, allowing you to browse and scroll. You’ll want to connect the keyboard if you’re interested in posting written content.
Expert Tip
Most Smart TVs allow you to set PIN codes on specific apps, which limits who can use them. If you’ve got young ones, and you want to limit their access to specific TV apps, look for a smart TV that allows you to set custom app security.
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Casting
Some TVs feature a smartcast function, which allows you to throw content from a smartphone or tablet to the TV, provided all devices are on the same WiFi network. This is most accessible if you have a device that matches the technology of the TV or smart platform. However, some apps are compatible across different brands.
In lieu of casting, some TVs may be controlled by a voice assistant with platforms utilizing Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant.
Size
Screen size is among the most important considerations when you are shopping. It is measured diagonally from one corner to the other and is typically offered in 5- to 10-inch increments. You’ll want to measure your available space in order to find a TV that fits your space. For those who plan to sit 6 to 9 feet from the screen, it’s recommended that you choose a TV of 50 to 60 inches. Adjust your dimensions accordingly for smaller and larger spaces.
Most medium-size rooms will be well-served by a 55-inch or 65-inch TV. Smaller options hover around the 40-inch range. These are ideal for dens or bedrooms. The largest choices hit 85 inches in size; choose something like this for the most immersive viewing experience possible.
Refresh rate
A TV’s refresh rate is the frequency with which the image reproduces itself every second. The standard rate, measured in Hertz, is 60 Hz. While this suffices for most content, it can lead to a lag when you’re watching live sports, action-heavy films, and video games. Simply put, a higher rate reduces motion blur associated with such content. If you enjoy sports or gaming, look for rates of 75Hz or higher, up to 144Hz. Rates above 144Hz exist, though the differences may not be easily seen or at all perceptible to the naked eye.
While higher refresh rates can help make sports and action look less blurry, the effect also attempts to smooth out regular content, resulting in everything looking hyper-realistic. This is often referred to as the "soap-opera effect" since the visual effect reminds viewers of the cheap simplicity of a daytime soap opera. Because most people prefer to see content as the creators intended, it’s usually best to turn off high refresh rates
Most companies, including Sony and LG, enhance the rate with their own technology, leading to higher rates that may reach 240 Hz. In these cases, they will boast a number that is simulated or enhanced while also noting the native number, which will still be from 60 Hz to 120Hz. These technologies work, but keep in mind the difference between their rate and the native number.
Screen resolution is a key factor in testing smart TVs. Smart TVs are available in 1080p HD as well as 4K.
Consider the smart TV's screen technology, comparing LED screens, the most affordable, to more expensive but higher-quality options like OLED and QLED.
There are features available at different price points, including 4K resolution, multiple inputs and high-end screen panel technology.
Some models are capable of receiving local broadcast channels. These models have a coaxial input to connect an external antenna.
Consider the smart TV's operating system to make sure it's secure and easy to keep updated. This helps protect users while browsing online.
One useful feature of smart TVs is their ability to facilitate video calling.
Consider what apps the smart TV supports and how quickly and easily you can navigate between apps.
Consider what channels the consumer is most likely to want to use on their smart TV and compare additional subscription costs offered by the TVs built-in apps.
Some smart TVs are better for mounting on the wall and which are better standing on a console.
Sound quality is a key factor when we test smart TVs.
Bright ideas: screen technology
The most important factor when shopping for any type of TV is the screen, both in terms of picture resolution and picture quality. Before you start shopping, decide what your ideal resolution is and what type of TV panel you want.
Screen resolution
You’ll need to decide if you want high definition (with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, often referred to as 1080p, Full HD, or FHD), or ultra-high definition (with a resolution of 3840 x 2160, better known as 4K). Higher-resolution screens produce more detailed images, so if you want the best picture quality you can get, spring for a 4K TV, also known as a UHD TV. If you just want good picture quality and don’t need it to be intensely detailed, a 1080p HDTV set would serve you just fine.
As technology continues to advance, 4K is becoming the standard resolution. New major films and most high-end TV shows are filmed in 4K, and most streaming content is available in a 4K tier as well. Granted, most 4K options will upscale lesser-quality content, but it’s important to make sure you have access to 4K content to enjoy the TV’s potential. That means investing in a 4K cable box or 4K player with discs or subscribing to a service that offers 4K content. The option for an 8K TV also exists, but they are not a great choice for the price since there is no 8K content to watch.
High dynamic range
HDR, or high dynamic range, informs color brightness and accuracy. HDR10+ and Dolby Vision are the latest technologies and aer typically paired with 4K resolution to deliver colorful, detailed content. It allows for deeper blacks and greater contrast as well as brighter whites. Like 4K resolution, you’ll need HDR-compatible content in order to enjoy this.
TV panels
Several competing screen technologies are available, but the main two are OLED and LED.
An OLED screen is vastly superior to an LED screen because each pixel is individually lit, resulting in a brighter image. However, products with these screens are also about three times as expensive as products with other screens. Nothing is better than OLED. There are all kinds of names now to make them sound the same: QLED, XLED, ULED, etc., and those can look pretty good, but none of these outperform OLED.
LEDs comprise a wide range of options, including budget-friendly TVs as well as higher-quality models. Some companies may offer their own proprietary type of LED TV made with their own technology. LCD TV is a dated version of an LED TV, but it uses the same technology.
Edge-lit LED TVs have been common over the years. On these models, the screen is lit from the sides. Full-array TVs are slightly different. They feature zones of backlighting so you can localize dimming, resulting in finer images and detail with higher contrast.
Accessories
Soundbar: Bose Smart Soundbar 300
While the TVs we’ve been discussing are optimized for stunning visuals and smart service integration, they often lack high-quality audio. Consider investing in a soundbar like this option from Bose to support deeper bass and crisper dialogue.
Blu-ray player: LG Region-Free Blu-Ray Player
Although you’ll have access to streaming service, a disc player can provide a reliable and quality connection without relying on WiFi. For those who enjoy physical copies of content, consider this LG HD player.
Expert Tip
If you like to listen privately while you watch TV, look for a smart TV with Bluetooth. Using Bluetooth, you can connect a set of wireless headphones and listen to your shows and movies as loud as you want without bothering anyone.
BestReviews Electronics Expert
TV mount: VideoSecu Articulating Full-Motion Bracket
A lot of consumers decide to mount their new purchase on the wall to save space and maximize viewability. This option is easy to install, it can hold a lot of weight, and you can select the size you need. No need to pay for more than you need.
Home theater seating: Flash Furniture Reclining Theater Seating
For family movie night or hanging out with friends, nothing beats having a set of comfy reclining seats to make the most of your experience. Flash Furniture offers their reclining chairs in configurations of two or three. Pop some popcorn, sit back, and relax.
Expert Tip
If you have a soundbar or a home theater system, get a smart TV with ARC or eARC support, which stands for “enhanced audio return channel.” It’s useful with soundbars and other home theater equipment because it allows you to use multiple video inputs with one video output. Standard ARC will share audio formats like Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus, but eARC also supports enhanced formats like Dolby Atmos.
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Prices
Before you start shopping, it helps to know how far your money will go. Keep these prices in mind as you survey the market.
Inexpensive
Between $300 and $799, you’ll find great choices when it comes to 1080p and bare-bones 4K options. If you just want a basic HDTV, you don’t need to spend a lot to get a solid deal. However, if you’re looking for 4K with all the bells and whistles, such as high dynamic range or an OLED screen, you’ll need to spend more.
Mid-range
Between $800 and $1,299, many products feature 4K resolution, but some skimp on other features. For example, some low-end 4K options have multiple inputs but only one that supports 4K content. The majority of 4K TVs in this price range are average, which is still incredible.
Expensive
Between $1,300 and $3,500, expect to find options that spare no expense. In this price range are 4Ks with features like HDR and Dolby Vision and higher-end screen panel technologies like XLED, QLED, or OLED. Most can anchor a solid home theater, so if you’re ready to turn your living room into a personal cinema, get ready to write a check with a comma in it.
Tips
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Mount your TV. Not only does mounting save space, it typically allows for a more comfortable and immersive viewing experience.
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If sound quality is a key concern, consider a smart TV bundled with a soundbar. Buying a soundbar that has already been paired with a TV removes all doubt about equipment compatibility.
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Never clean your screen with a commercial spray cleaner. No matter what kind of screen you have, it should only be cleaned with water, and sparingly. Most cleaning products use chemicals that can harm or stain a TV screen, so only use microfiber cloths and a small amount of water. For best results, spray water on the cloth and then wipe the TV. Never spray the screen directly, not even with water.
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Set the software to update automatically. TV makers often publish software updates that bring new features and critical security fixes to your TV. It’s easy to forget to check for software updates, so save yourself the headache and set your TV to auto-update. With auto-update, all-important software updates happen in the background as soon as they’re available.
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Cover a built-in TV webcam when you’re not using it. Some of these TVs are designed to facilitate video calls, so they include webcams at the top of the screen that seamlessly integrate with the TV design. Having a webcam can be great: it’s perfect for staying connected with friends and family. However, many privacy advocates aren’t thrilled about having an internet-connected camera pointed at them while they watch TV. If you have concerns about privacy, cover your webcam with a discreet piece of electrical tape, or choose an option without a camera.
FAQ
Q. Can I connect an antenna to my local broadcast channels?
A. Yes, you can do this as long as the TV has a coaxial input. Most of these TVs have a coaxial input that you can use with an external antenna; the coaxial input indicates the TV has a tuner inside that can translate your local broadcast TV signals into a watchable picture. However, some companies omit a coaxial input or TV tuners, most notably LG.
The easiest way to tell which models have coaxial inputs and TV tuners is to note the product titles. If a set has a tuner, it will be marketed as a TV. If it does not, it will simply be called a display. When shopping, you’re likely to encounter both, so pay special attention to which models use the word “TV” and which use the word “display.”
Q. Do I need a paid subscription to use streaming apps?
A. Yes, you will need this if you want to use a paid service. Most of these TVs come with a host of apps that are free to download and use, but they also support the most popular services, like Netflix, Hulu, Vudu, and Amazon Video. To learn more about paid subscriptions, visit each streaming provider’s website.
Q. Is it really safe to connect my TV to the internet?
A. Yes, as long as you follow web security best practices. For example, it’s important that your TV operating system is up to date to make sure that the latest patches and security features have been installed. If you keep your hardware updated (particularly gadgets that get you the internet, like your wireless router), your risk is minimal.
In addition to keeping software current, it’s important to secure any accounts you’ll be using with it. For example, if you plan on browsing Facebook on television, make sure you’ve protected your Facebook account with multi-factor authentication to prevent getting hacked. For each account you plan on using with the TV, investigate what security features you can enable to protect your data and credentials.
