With all the different TVs on the market these days, and all the technical terms and jargon associated with TV technology, it can be hard to figure out what’s important. Here’s a quick guide to help clear up the confusion.
Screen size: In our book, bigger is better. We recommend a bedroom TV size of at least 43 inches and a living room or master TV size of at least 55 inches, preferably 65 inches or larger. More than any other “feature”, increasing your TV screen size is the most efficient use of your money. One of the most common post-TV purchase complaints we hear is from people who didn’t buy enough. We rarely hear people complain that their TVs are too big.
price: TVs range in price from $100 to over $2,000. Small screens are cheaper, well-known brands are more expensive, and you can get better image quality for more money. Most entry-level TVs have a good enough picture for most people, but TVs have a long lifespan, so it may be worth spending more to get a better picture. It’s best to buy a TV in the fall when prices are lower.
ability: The most important feature of entry-level TVs is what kind of smart TV system the TV uses. In mid-range models, look for features including full-array local dimming, mini-LED, and a 120Hz update rate, which (unlike some of the other extras) really helped improve the picture in our experience. Among high-end TVs, OLED technology is your best bet.
