Watching TV is still a popular and sought-after pastime for many people, and what better way to enjoy your favorite TV show or movie than with a brand new smart TV? But while the sheer number of options and endless deals may make you want to bring home the first new model you see, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money in order to avoid regret.
Choosing the perfect smart TV can be a daunting task amidst the variety of options available. But some common mistakes can lead to a poor choice. From ignoring display specifications to not paying attention to app and service compatibility, there are essential factors to consider to avoid any disappointment after the purchase. Check out the most important specifications to check before buying a smart TV.
1. Buy a TV based on actual in-store offers or what the seller offers.
Many buyers don’t buy a TV until they see an actual demo in the store. I’ve done it too, so I understand the logic. After all, seeing is believing, right? Well, it took me a really long time to realize this, but buying a TV because the model in the store works great can be a mistake — and an expensive one, too.
TVs in the store usually run in demo mode, which changes the display settings. That’s why you see sharp images and vibrant, saturated colors. Sure, those settings look impressive under the bright lights of a store, but they’re rarely what you’ll get when you order the same model.
Likewise, it is best not to make a decision based on the salesperson’s presentation. Sure, he may seem knowledgeable and convincing, but he is there to sell you a product and not have your best interests at heart. When buying a TV, do your due diligence, find out the key TV specifications to check, and make a decision accordingly.
2. Buying the wrong size
If you’re looking to choose the right TV for your living room or any other space in your home, pay attention to the size. If it’s too big, it can overwhelm the space and make the viewing experience uncomfortable. On the other hand, if you get a TV that’s too small, you’ll face the opposite problem; no matter how advanced the technology is, the screen will feel disappointing and your eyes will strain to pick out details.
To get the right TV size, consider your viewing distance (the distance between where you sit and the screen). A good rule of thumb is to keep your viewing distance between 1.2 and 1.6 times the diagonal measurement of the screen. So, if your viewing distance is 10 feet, go for a 65-inch or 75-inch TV.
3. Forgetting to check your TV's operating system
Just like your phone runs iOS or Android, your smart TV also has a custom operating system. For example, Samsung TVs run Tizen, a Linux-based operating system. If you own a Samsung phone, you’ll find the integration between your phone and TV is especially seamless.
For example, you can use voice commands through Bixby to control the TV as you would your phone and Auto Hotspot to connect the TV to the Internet without setting anything up manually. Similarly, other ecosystems like Google’s Android TV or LG’s webOS offer unique features and benefits. Make sure you consider your TV’s operating system before purchasing.
4. Not considering display technology and communication options
When you start researching smart TVs, you'll notice that manufacturers use different abbreviations, including QLED, OLED, and LED, to refer to the display technology.
It may seem confusing, but these shortcuts are important and can make a big difference in the picture quality you get. The truth is, some monitors are better than others in certain settings.
For example, if you’re looking for a smart TV to put in a well-lit room, you’d be better off going for a QLED TV with a bright screen. But, for example, if you’re setting up a home theater and you can control the lighting in the room, it’s worth buying an OLED TV for the immersive experience. An OLED won’t work in a well-lit room because the screen simply isn’t as bright, so even if you spend a lot of money on an expensive model, you’ll be disappointed with the results if you put it in a space that gets a lot of natural light.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly smart TV for an extra room, like a bedroom, an LED TV might be your best bet as it offers decent picture quality but is available in a range of budget prices. While shopping, you’ll also want to make sure your smart TV has enough HDMI and USB ports so you can connect essential devices to it. HDMI ports can help you connect gaming consoles, laptops, and audio systems, while USB ports can connect to external storage devices. Check out some of the reasons why you shouldn’t buy a smart TV.
5. Focus only on price
Smart TVs vary widely in price. From entry-level LED TVs that cost a few hundred dollars to best-in-class OLED TVs that cost more than $2,500, there are a wide range of options to choose from. But don’t make the mistake of making a decision based solely on the price of the TV.
A high-priced TV doesn’t always guarantee the best picture or sound quality. On the other hand, choosing the cheapest option may seem like a smart move at first, but the poor picture quality and limited features could have you rushing to buy a new model in just a few years. So, weigh your budget against your current needs and learn what features and terms you should know to make an informed decision.
6. Not budgeting for external speakers
Have you ever wondered why modern TVs have such poor sound output? It’s no secret that TVs have become thinner over time. While this is great for aesthetics, it’s not great for audio. The slim design leaves little room for powerful speakers that could be included, so manufacturers have to use smaller, less powerful speakers in their models.
So, even smart TVs with stunning screens can have lackluster sound, so I recommend leaving some room in your budget for external speakers or at least a soundbar that you plug into your TV. Of course, if you’re just looking for a basic TV for your bedroom, you can do without external speakers.
But if you’re looking for your primary TV to be the centerpiece of your living room, make sure you budget for external speakers as well so you don’t miss out on the cinematic experience your TV can offer. Remember, even the best hardware can be disappointing if it’s not paired with good sound.
Buying a smart TV isn’t just about picking out the biggest or most stunning screen in the store. Avoid making these mistakes to ensure you get the most for your money and don’t end up regretting your purchase. Check out the essential devices that every smart home should have.
Get IPTV Free Trial Now