Important Specs To Consider When Buying A TV

Buying a new television can be a tricky and complicated experience. With so many different factors to consider, it can feel overwhelming to select the best option at an affordable price. However, the process can quickly be simplified when you understand the biggest factors that will influence your decision. 

To get the biggest bang for your buck, it is worthwhile searching for TV sales or bargains online and at your local retailer to find the best deal that comfortably fits within your budget. 

Screen Size

The biggest factor determining the television you buy will most likely be the screen size. When choosing the best size to fit your space, you need to consider where you are going to put your new set, how much you are willing to spend, and how many people typically watch it at one time. 

For most people, the ideal option falls between 55 and 75 inches. Your screen size will also depend on how close you sit to the TV. As a general rule of thumb, you should sit at a distance of three times more than the screen height for an HD display and one and a half times the height for a 4K Ultra HD resolution. To find the best fit for yourself, head to your local retailer and test out different displays in person. 

Smart Features

The majority of televisions currently on the market are equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities for connecting to online streaming services, gaming, and accessing social media. Many of the newest models can even search content across online streaming services and live programming on cable and satellite. 

The make and model of the television you purchase will largely dictate the major services you will have access to and the interface display you will have to navigate to access them. Before making any purchases, ensure the TV you want has the platforms you need and a user-friendly interface to make viewing simple and enjoyable. 

Resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the picture on your television display. More pixels produce a sharper image with finer details, so a higher resolution is typically always better. 

Full HD, or 1920 x 1080 resolution, has been standard for many years. However, most manufacturers have since made the leap to Ultra HD resolution, also known as 4K. The biggest benefit of 4K resolution is that small objects on screens are incredibly detailed, with an overall richer and more life-like image. Some manufacturers now offer 8K resolution displays. However, many experts recommend choosing the more popular 4K for now, as there has not been enough development in TV software to justify the price or need for 8K. 

HDMI Ports

Most televisions are designed with three HDMI inputs, an optical output for audio, and built-in internet connectivity. To take advantage of the latest developments in television software and viewing, look for models with at least one HDMI 2.1 port and an ARC HDMI port. Beyond that, it is worthwhile counting how many devices you plan to plug into your TV to determine the right option. 

ARC ports, or Audio Return Channel, allow you to quickly connect any modern soundbar and receiver, significantly improving the sound quality of your setup. HDMI 2.1 is the latest connection standard that allows for incredibly low-latency video streams at 4k resolution. 

Gaming Performance

When selecting a gaming television, you must consider more than a great picture and sound. Connectivity options, gaming features, and the device’s overall responsiveness should be essential factors that influence your decision. 

Having additional HDMI ports can significantly enhance your gaming experience. It ensures you won’t need to constantly switch out your console for other devices like a Blu-ray player, allowing you to seamlessly enjoy a game of FIFA with friends. Moreover, low input lag guarantees a swift and immediate response between your gaming console and the action on your screen, further enhancing your gaming experience. 

Soundbar Addition

Even the most expensive and refined HDTVs have one major downfall: poor sound. In a never-ending quest to make panels as flat and sleek as possible, there is simply not enough room to fit televisions with large and powerful speakers to provide rich sound. The easiest way to combat this is to buy a soundbar. 

Soundbars have dramatically risen in popularity over recent years, and for good reason. Not only are they reasonably priced and suitable for all budgets, but they are also incredibly easy to install. They are designed to easily fit under TV stands or be mounted under a wall-hanging TV. 

Extended Warranties

One of the biggest ways big-box electronic retailers make money is through extended warranties. This is primarily because they are rarely needed, as many components in an HDTV are surprisingly resilient, making it an unnecessary additional cost. 

If you encounter issues with your new television, they are likely to become apparent within a few days of usage, which typically falls within the standard return policy of most major stores. Beyond this time frame, many popular manufacturers offer a one-year warranty, which further negates the need for an extended warranty. 

Hunt the Deals

If you are looking for the latest features and the best capabilities, you are unlikely to find them without paying full price for the newest model on the market. But the reality is that you can easily find great televisions, complete with 4K resolution, HDR support, and desirable smart features, for affordable prices if you know when and where to shop. 

Summer sales, Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, and holiday bargains can significantly reduce the price of electronic devices, allowing you to find the perfect TV at a great price.  

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