Be Smart About Buying a Smart TV

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If you’re in the market to buy a new TV, chances are you’re considering a smart TV.

Today’s marketplace, however, can quickly become overwhelming and confusing. The technology is evolving very fast. The specifications are difficult to understand for most people. The features are so abundant that it’s hard to know which is more important. Online resources and expert reviews contradict each other so often, it can sometime hurt more than help. To make it easier, you simply need to understand the basics.

Know What It Is

A smart TV is simply one with the ability to connect to the Internet built right in. The technology has been adopted so broadly that almost any TV that’s introduced this year will have it. The basic law of supply and demand indicates this will cause prices to get better, which is great for buyers. So now you need to narrow down what you need most.

Know What Size You Need

You may be thinking bigger is better, but that really depends on where you plan to use it. For a living room or other entertainment space, a larger set is best. For a bedroom or smaller living space, however, sizes under 55 inches work much better.

Know Your Ideal Screen Type

If your new TV will be going into a bright room, you should avoid glossy screens. They are very reflective and will make viewing difficult. A matte screen is best for bright rooms, while darker rooms accommodate both types well.

Know the Technology

The technology types resemble a jumbled alphabet, with terms like 4K, 3D, HDR, OLED and HDMI as the lingo. This is where some online research can be helpful. Some basic information to keep in mind is that 4K is also known as ultra-high definition (UHD) and is often paired with HDR. OLEDs create TV images by using electricity to create colors produce TV images. It’s also important to know that the development of 3D has been dropped by manufacturers across the industry, making it a less viable choice. Lastly, HDMI ports are how you connect your TV our other electronics, so having multiple ports is important.

Once you determine your preferences, it’s simply a matter of picking the price and picture quality that you find ideal. Pair that with what’s most important to you and you’ll be able to make a confident smart TV purchase.