Essential Tips for Choosing the Perfect Smart Television

When selecting a new television, important aspects such as screen size, sound quality, display clarity, and connectivity options should be taken into account. In recent years, another significant criterion has emerged: whether the TV is a smart device. Understanding what makes a TV 'smart' is crucial for making an informed purchase decision. This knowledge allows consumers to evaluate and select the best option for their entertainment needs.

What Is a Smart TV?

A smart TV is an entertainment device equipped with an operating system that enables users to access, control, and stream media content directly via the internet, often through an external device or built-in features.

The internet connectivity of a smart TV through Ethernet or WiFi allows users to log in using their credentials provided by their internet service providers. Once connected, the TV displays a menu of available channels and apps, both pre-installed and downloadable. By selecting a channel or application, viewers can access various streaming options. Navigation features may vary depending on the brand and operating system of the device.

Benefits of Smart Televisions

Smart TVs offer several advantages, including the ability to access numerous channels without needing traditional antennas or cable boxes and without additional subscriptions in many cases. Some models support web browsing and gaming functionalities as well. Certain brands, like Vizio, have moved away from conventional tuners and antennas, focusing solely on streaming capabilities.

Additional Features

Many smart TVs include features like Miracast or Screen Sharing, allowing users to display content from their smartphones directly onto the big screen. Some models also support remote content sharing, letting users view their media even when away from home.

Potential Limitations

While smart TVs are versatile, they often come with higher costs and can require ongoing subscriptions for streaming services like Netflix or Pandora. Additional channels and features may vary across brands. For iTunes users, a separate Apple TV box is often necessary since native support is limited. A drawback for some users is the 'recently watched' menu, which might display unwanted content unexpectedly.

Are There Alternatives?

If budget constraints are a concern, consumers can upgrade their existing televisions with affordable media streaming devices or HDMI converters. Devices such as Blu-ray players and DVRs can enhance the viewing experience, providing access to physical media and internet streaming without replacing the entire television set.