Smart TVs, unlike conventional televisions, let users do a number of things-such as stream content from services like Netflix or Hulu, browse the internet, and view social media-directly through the TV set without additional hardware.
Smart TVs 101: All that you should understand
And they’re gaining steam with consumers: In 2011, 52 million smart TVs were sold worldwide. By 2015, that number rose to 141 million and was projected to reach 173 million by 2016.
Of course, there are several ways you can set up a “smart” TV. You can buy an authentic Smart TV with integrated Wi-Fi, one that will handle apps and the like. Or, you can buy something like the Google Chromecast, Apple TV, or Roku Stick to turn your “dumb” TV right into a “smart” one.
In some cases, it’s more beneficial to keep your old TV and pick a third-party device with smart features, which can help you save money-and the environment-by recycling your perfectly fine television.
This is an ideal solution if you would like take additional TVs, like the one in your bedroom or office, and make them smart. But your living room television? You most likely want to keep that one on the cutting edge. Here’s how-and why.
What is a smart TV?
A smart TV is just like a regular one, but with two exceptions: Smart TVs can access the internet via Wi-Fi and in addition they can be boosted with apps-just like a smartphone or tablet.
Like regular TVs, smart TVs come in all shapes, sizes, and forms. You can get an LCD, Plasma, as well as projection TV.
Traditionally, you will need to connect a computer or laptop to your TV to gain access to internet-based content. Because of today’s technology, that’s not necessary. Now, the TVs themselves include Wi-Fi receivers and can access your home network with no additional hardware. And you can now always turn a dumb TV smart using one of the third-party devices we mentioned about earlier (Google Chromecast, Apple TV, and Roku are popular picks).
What else can you do with a smart TV?
The most useful thing you can do with a smart TV is access streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Instant Video, and YouTube.
While some of these services require an active subscription, it’s an excellent setup for cord-cutters or individuals who don’t wish to pay for cable. Almost all of the content you have access to is regarded as “on-demand,” which means you can start or stop it whenever you want, and you can watch virtually anything you want with few, or no, commercials.
This is especially convenient if you’re not in the mood to surf through hundreds or thousands of channels (and who is, really?).
In addition, apps available for smart TVs can supply access to other services, like social networks, online shopping, internet browsers, music and media playback, and even more.
What are the downsides?
There are just two things to consider if you’re thinking of buying a smart TV: The first is that you may possibly have to sign up for additional streaming services, like Netflix or Hulu, if you’d like to access streaming content. This is also true for those who don’t have a home computer with a digital media library that can be used as a makeshift video and music library. (This can be accomplished with a free service like Plex.).
The second thing to think about is that this is another piece of technology you will need to maintain. Wi-Fi isn’t always the most reliable wireless connection. It’s possible, at times, that your TV will drop a connection or have problems with poor speeds, hindering your experience. To paraphrase, they’re much like other technology: imperfect.
What kind of TV do you recommend I buy?
Once you’ve decided to get a smart TV, next comes the more difficult part: choosing which kind of TV and what brand you want.
The first thing you’ll need to determine is what size TV you’re in the market for. It’s all too easy to purchase a TV that’s too big or too small for the space you’re planning to put it in. You’ll need to measure the space where you’re planning to place or mount your TV and ensure what size is right for you. Smart TVs range in size from 15 inches all the way up to 90 inches and more.
Generally speaking, anything 70 inches and up will probably be projection-type-otherwise, the price is going to be high. As in $1,000 up to $8,000. That said, if you prefer a super-large screen, you could be happier getting a projector-type setup.
Next, you’ll need to choose the type of TV you want. Would you like a flat-screen LCD (liquid crystal display) or plasma that you may mount directly to the wall? Do you prefer the older-style projection TVs that need to be placed on an entertainment stand? Would you like to buck the status quo completely and get a projector and screen like they use at cinemas?
Each has advantages and disadvantages making it different from its peers. LCDs, for instance, are typically much brighter than any of the other types because they have a backlight. Rear-projection TVs will not be as bright as an LCD or plasma, because of the way they’re designed.
So, if you want a super bright, super-vivid picture, an LCD or plasma is the best approach to take.
Finally, you’ll have to choose the brand: You’ll need to pony up more cash for a name brand like Sony, LG, Philips, or Samsung unless you purchase a set during a good sale. But the TV space is littered with lesser-known brands which have been just as good, like Vizio, Sharp, Insignia, Sanyo, and others.
As a final note, ensure that you’re actually selecting a “smart” TV with Wi-Fi access and app support when you’re shopping. It’s all to easy to purchase a TV without this support, because stores still have a good mix of both.