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Not sure where to start?
Choosing the right TV is a big decision, and a big investment. So it’s a good idea to take some time to consider the following factors:
- What will you be using your TV for?
- What size screen do you need?
- What type of screen do you want?
- Have you thought about audio?
- Will your TV be wall mounted?
This will then help you decide which screen size and type will be best suited for your needs.
What screen size should I buy?
Size is important. Your TV needs to suit your room and viewing needs, whether that’s a basic smaller model for your kitchen, or a giant screen with the latest tech for your living room. Here are a few things to consider.
Did you know? TV screen sizes are measured diagonally, from corner to corner.
The further away you’re going to be sitting from the TV, the bigger the screen. To give you an idea, if your couch is around 2 metres away, go for a TV around 50 inches. Distance around 2.5 metres? Pick up a TV that’s at least 55 inches. And for a 3 metre distance, we’d suggest a 60-inch TV or bigger. But at the end of the day, it’s about what feels right for you and your space.
What TV resolution do I need?
4K UltraHD TVs
4K is one of the most common screen resolutions in TVs. With four times more pixels than a HD TV, 4K screens display your favourite films and shows with unbelievable detail. Plus, all the top streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney + come with a range of 4K content for you to enjoy. If you’re looking for a TV for now and the future, a 4K model is a must.
8K TVs
A few brands are now offering 8K TVs which boast 4 times the number of pixels of a 4K TV. Unsurprisingly these aren’t cheap, but give you unparalleled clarity and detail. Much like when 4K TVs were introduced, it will take a while for companies to create 8K content, but for now some models use AI to upscale 4K, HD and SD content.
Types of TV screens
Many models have tons of different features, with every one benefiting you in different ways. For example, HDR creates bold lifelike images for gaming, whereas QLED boosts a vibrant, colourful picture for amazing wildlife documentaries. Let us help bust through the jargon and find the best TV for you.
Standard screens
Most TVs now include full HD (high definition) and LED (light-emitting diode) technology as a standard. These models will enhance brightness, offer crisp picture quality and create more realistic images for TV, films or gaming.
QLED Screens
QLED TVs are really bright and packed with colour. They layer dots over normal LEDs to create a really wide range of shades that you wouldn’t get on other screens. The result? A picture that looks so realistic whether you’re watching day or night.
OLED Screens
That’s an “o”, not a “q”. While LED screens use a chunky backlight to light up sections of the TV at once, OLEDs have individual pixels that turn on or off on their own. So, you can say goodbye to hazy colours and hello to accurate levels of detail that’ll bring films to life. A display could have lots of tiny backlights and it still wouldn’t compete with the precision of OLED.
Because self-lit pixels can turn completely off, the screen can actually go pitch-black in places. That’s not possible on LED TVs where there’s always a bit of light bleeding through from their backlight.
TVs with HDR
TVs with HDR tech display a wider range of colours with better contrast. This clever use of colour creates vivid and lifelike images, making it perfect for throwing yourself into those nature docs or that edge-of-your-seat sporting event.
A 4K HDR picture will seem even brighter and more detailed, particularly with darker scenes in films and TV shows.
What about Smart TVs?
What is a smart TV?
A smart TV connects to the internet through your broadband to let you enjoy all your streaming favourites such as Netflix and Disney+. Most TVs today now have smart features.
What can I watch on a smart TV?
The main benefit of a smart TV is the amount of entertainment on offer. With different streaming platforms popping up left, right and centre, there’s always something to watch.
Free on-demand apps
You’ll find all your classic free catch-up and on demand apps such as RTÉ Player, 3Player and All 4.
Subscription streaming apps
There’s a ton of subscription based streaming services available, serving up the best in original films and binge worthy series. You’ve got your go to’s such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Now TV and Disney +. But there’s also more independent services like MUBI, if you’re looking for that uncut gem.
Alexa
Some TVs can connect to your Amazon Alexa device, meaning you can change the volume, select different apps and choose the stuff you want to watch with your voice. Even better, some models come with Alexa built-in, so you can enjoy the benefits of voice control without having to own an additional smart device.
Google Assistant
Like Alexa, some TVs can hook up to your Google Assistant smart device. So, you can put that remote down and impress your family with hands-free control next time movie night comes around.
Sound quality
Often the area that’s overlooked when picking out that new TV, but no film experience is complete without great sound. With modern TVs being so thin, the sound can sometimes be an issue.
Soundbars
No home cinema setup is complete without a good soundbar. They’ll take your movies and shows to the next level with ground-shaking sound. We’d recommend choosing a model with an additional subwoofer – these chunky boxes will add the bass to those action extravaganzas for that true cinematic experience.