Smart TV Buying Guide 2023

In this blog, we will help address some key questions when it comes to purchasing TVs

• Understanding the key new technologies in TVs today
• How to decide the right TV size for your use case
• Ideal sound technology for an immersive experience

Things to consider when buying a Smart TV

Well, what are smart televisions?

Smart TVs are called "smart" because they have the ability to connect to the internet and offer a variety of features beyond traditional TV programming. Internet connectivity and built-in apps are the key features that make a smart TV smart.

These features provide users access to a wide range of online content and services directly from their TV, making it a versatile and convenient device.

With a smart TV, you can do the following things

Smart TV Display Type & Screen Resolution

The resolution of a smart TV screen can have a significant impact on picture quality, with higher resolutions generally resulting in sharper, more detailed images. This means that you can choose a resolution that works best for your viewing preferences, depending on the type of content you're watching, the size of your TV, and your distance from the screen.

Here’s a variation of display resolutions making strides on the market right now

Display Screen

It is one of the most important components of a smart TV as it directly impacts the picture quality and overall viewing experience.

A Detailed view of the technology and how it enhances your viewing experience.

• LCD: It is a type of flat panel display that uses liquid crystals to produce images. The liquid crystals are sandwiched between two sheets of polarizing material and when an electric current is applied, they align to allow light to pass through, creating the image.
• LED: It is a type of display technology that uses an array of tiny light-emitting diodes to create an image. Each diode emits its own light, which can be individually controlled to create a bright and sharp image.
• OLED: It is a display technology that uses organic compounds to emit light when an electric current is applied. OLED displays can produce deep blacks, high contrast ratios, and wide viewing angles, making them ideal for televisions and mobile devices. OLED displays are also energy-efficient, as they don't require a backlight like LCD displays.
• QLED: It is a type of display technology that uses quantum dots to enhance the color and brightness of an image. Quantum dots are tiny particles that emit light when exposed to an electric current. In QLED displays, a layer of quantum dots is placed between the backlight and the LCD panel, which allows for more accurate and vibrant colors.

Screen Size

It is an important factor to consider when choosing a smart TV because it affects the viewing experience and the overall immersion of the viewer. The viewing distance is also an important factor to consider when choosing a screen size. If the viewer is sitting far away from the TV, a larger screen may be necessary to ensure the picture is visible and clear.

Note: The ideal viewing distance and angle may vary based on personal preferences and room conditions. The values provided in the table are general guidelines.

Sound Technology

Here is a table outlining the different types of smart TV sound quality and features, along with their ideal viewing distance.

No matter what type of sound or audio quality you choose for your smart TV, it's important to consider the size of the room and the placement of the speakers to ensure the best possible audio experience.

Operating System

Choosing the right operating system (OS) in a smart TV is important because it affects the user experience and the capabilities of the TV.

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of the trending ones available on the market:

Processors

There are several leading processors used in smart TVs. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• MediaTek: Commonly used in mid-range and budget smart TVs that offer good performance and are cost-effective.
• Qualcomm Snapdragon: Known for their high performance and are commonly used in high-end smart TVs. They offer fast processing speeds and support advanced features like AI and voice recognition.
• Nvidia Tegra: Popular among gaming enthusiasts, as they offer advanced gaming capabilities and support for 4K HDR content.
• Samsung Exynos: Offer good performance and support for advanced features like voice control and AI.
• LG Alpha: Offer fast processing speeds and support for advanced features like AI and voice recognition.

Pros and cons of different processors will depend on the specific model and manufacturer. It is recommended to research the features and performance of a smart TV before making a purchase.

Smart Features

While the above-mentioned features help you understand the key parameters to keep in mind while purchasing a smart TV, below are some important additional features that can enhance your viewing experience.

• Streaming Services: Smart TVs provide access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
• Voice Control: Built-in voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant enable users to control the TV and other connected devices using voice commands.
• Miracast / Airplay / Chromecast: They allow wireless streaming of content from mobile devices to a TV or display, and the choice depends on device compatibility, available features, and personal preference.
• Gaming: Smart TVs support gaming with access to a wide range of games and the ability to connect to gaming consoles.
• MEMC: A useful feature that can enhance the visual quality of certain content, but not essential for all viewers.
• Magic Remote: A remote with voice recognition capabilities for controlling the TV by speaking into the remote. Some models may also include a scroll wheel for faster browsing and selection.

Budget

Smart TVs are available at different price points depending on the features, display technology, and screen size. Set a budget based on your needs and preferences, and compare the options available to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Installation, Warranty & Support

The type of installation, warranty, and support that comes with smart TVs in India may vary depending on the brand and model.

However, some common types of installation, warranty, and support that are offered include:

Installation: Most smart TV brands offer free installation services for their products. The installation process may include unpacking the TV, connecting it to the power source, connecting the cables, and setting up the TV settings.

Warranty: Smart TVs usually come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers any defects or malfunctions in the TV for a certain period of time, typically 1-2 years. Some brands may also offer extended warranty options for an additional fee.

Support: Smart TV brands also offer support services to their customers, which may include phone support, email support, or online chat support. Customers can contact support teams for any issues related to their TV, such as troubleshooting, repairs, or replacements.

It is important to check the specific warranty and support terms and conditions for the brand and model of the smart TV before purchasing to ensure that you are aware of the available services and any limitations or exclusions.

Takeaway

Buying a smart TV in 2023 can be an overwhelming experience with the vast array of options available in the market. Choosing the right combination of features will help you find the perfect smart TV for your needs and budget.

With proper research and careful consideration, you can ensure that you invest in a smart TV that offers a superior viewing experience and long-term value.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best screen resolution for a smart TV?

The best screen resolution for a smart TV depends on the content you'll be watching and your budget. The most common resolutions in modern TVs are Full HD, 4K Ultra HD, and 8K Ultra HD.

2. What connectivity options should I look for in a smart TV?

You should look for connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, and Ethernet. Ensure that the TV has the connectivity options you need, such as the ability to connect to the internet, stream content from a smartphone, or connect to a gaming console.

3. Why should I select a Dolby digital sound?

Dolby digital sound offers superior audio quality with its multi-channel audio format, providing a more immersive and realistic audio experience. It is especially useful for watching movies or playing games that have advanced audio effects.

4. How does power consumption affect my smart TV?

Power consumption directly affects your electricity bill and your TV's overall lifespan. A TV with higher power consumption will consume more electricity and have a shorter lifespan, whereas a TV with lower power consumption will consume less electricity and have a longer lifespan.

5. How many watts should my smart TV have?

The wattage of your smart TV will depend on the size of the screen and the type of sound system you have. As a general rule of thumb, a 32-inch TV should have a wattage of around 20-30 watts, while a 50-inch TV should have a wattage of around 50-60 watts. However, it's important to consider other factors such as the efficiency of the TV's components and the sound system's power consumption as well.

6. What is an HDMI port and how many are ideal in a smart TV?

An HDMI port is a high-definition multimedia interface that allows for the transfer of audio and video data between devices. Smart TVs typically come with multiple HDMI ports, with some having as many as 4 or 5 ports. The ideal number of HDMI ports will depend on how many devices you want to connect to your TV, such as gaming consoles, streaming devices, or soundbars. As a general rule, having at least 3 HDMI ports should be sufficient for most users.

7. What is the recommended height when mounting a TV on the wall?

The recommended height for mounting a TV on the wall depends on the size of the TV and the height of the seating area. As a general rule, the center of the TV screen should be at eye level when you're sitting in your viewing position.