How to choose a TV: 10 useful tips

We know, we live in a new era where technology runs faster than we do. Everything we could possibly want has more and more functions, the offer is increasingly vast and chaotic. We are therefore pleased to present you with an essential guide to answer one of the most frequently asked questions of the time: how do you choose a TV set?

Some tech-savoury buzzwords might lead you to choose a TV just like that, on a hunch, but we are here precisely to help you consciously select a resourceful device.

So, what features should a good TV set have?

Let's start with the basics. Here we are talking about a Smart TV, to be exact. This means that the TV is able to connect to the Internet and thus support a wide range of applications, just like a tablet or smartphone.

When TV becomes a painting! Not enough for you? A quick tap with your mobile phone on The Serif and whatever you are watching on your smartphone will be displayed on your TV screen.

This time, we have decided to really guide you step by step: each paragraph will take you directly through our catalogue, assessing which aspects are crucial for choosing the right TV for you.

THE LOUDSPEAKERS

When indicating loudspeakers, you will notice the term "ch". In a television, this term stands for "channels" and defines the number of outputs a sound system can handle, which affects the distribution of sound in the room.

Here is an explanation of the most common audio setups expressed in channels:

• Stereo (2.0ch). Two audio channels, left and right. This is the standard format for most televisions, offering sound separation between two speakers for a more natural experience.
• Surround (2.1ch, 2.2ch, etc.). Systems with multiple speakers that include front, side and sometimes rear channels as well as a bass channel (subwoofer, indicated by the number after the dot, i.e. the low frequencies related to the depth and power of sound, especially in scenes with intense sound effects). It generates a truly immersive audio experience.
• Superior configurations. A 6.2ch audio system, for example, indicates a rather advanced loudspeaker configuration. While the first 2 refers to the number of subwoofers, the second 2 indicates the presence of two dedicated speakers for the height channels, often positioned above or facing the ceiling to add a vertical dimension to the sound. This is typical of audio systems that support formats such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, which enable the experience of three-dimensional sound. A high-end home cinema experience.

Make sure, however, that the content you are viewing supports these advanced audio formats.

BACKLIGHT

The main difference between a TV set, for example, OLED and LCD is exactly this: whereas in an OLED screen (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) each pixel produces its own light, an LCD screen (Liquid Crystal Display) requires an external light source. The backlight therefore affects not only brightness, but also contrast, depth, sharpness and colour range. Oh, and it helps to avoid problems such as clouding or banding, those annoying visual defects attributable to lighting that ruin your film, like a fly stuck on the screen.

Among the most modern backlight technologies are LEDs, which are much more energy efficient and functional than older technologies such as CCFLs (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamps).

Here are the most popular LED technologies on the market:

• Edge LEDs. LEDs are distributed around the perimeter of the screen, resulting in thinner screens that consume less energy than others. Although it may have uniformity flaws, it is a popular solution because it is economical.
• Direct LED. Here the LEDs are distributed across the entire rear panel of the TV. Some models may also use mini LEDs, opening the possibility for local dimming: individual LED zones are turned on and off, providing deeper blacks and better contrast.
• Full Edge Array (or Full Array LED). This represents a significant improvement over the first two. The LEDs are evenly distributed throughout the panel and, thanks to local dimming, offer much more precise control of the lighting. The only flaw--the cost, which is close to OLED displays.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TV BY SCREEN SIZE

Choosing the right TV screen size is not only a matter of personal taste, but also of space-and budget, of course.All TVs have their own recommendations, but in general it is recommended to stand in front of a 4K screen while respecting a 30° or 40° field of view. Samsung, an industry leader, provides this valuable advice: to find out the ideal distance multiply the size of the TV by 1.2.

• 55" = 1.7 m (5.5 ft)
• 65" = 2.0 m (6.5 ft)
• 74" = 2.3 m (7.5 ft)
• 85" = 2.6 m (8.5 ft)
• 98" = 3 m (9.8 ft)

These, on the other hand, are the references proposed by LG, for OLED and LED TVs with UDH 4K definition:

• 49'', 1-2 meters;
• 55'', 1-2, 2 meters;
• 60", 1-2, 4 meters;
• 65", 1.2-2.6 meters;
• 70", 1.4-2.8 meters;
• 77", 1.6-3 meters;
• 88", 1.6-3.5 meters.

Of course, one's personal needs and conditions, and of one's environment, should then be evaluated. What is certain is that you will hardly be able to move your sofa, so it is better to make the right choice now!

HOW TO CHOOSE A TV BY DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY

When choosing the display technology of a TV set, it is important to understand the differences between the various types available on the market, and this, we understand, seems like a very difficult task. Actually, it is simpler than you might imagine.

• LED (Light Emitting Diode). We have already discussed this, they represent the most common and generally the cheapest technology.
• QLED (Quantum Dot LED). Samsung's QLED TVs, introduced in 2013, use an advanced technology called Quantum Light-Emitting Diode, or LED backlighting that illuminates a layer of quantum dots (nanoparticles). Result? More vivid colors and higher brightness.
• OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode). Here the budget increases: each pixel produces its own light, eliminating the need for a backlight and allowing the screen to be extremely thin.
• QNED (Quantum Nano Emitting Diode). In response to Samsung's QLED technology, LG has introduced its QNED, or Quantum Nano-Emitting Diode, screens. It combines quantum-dot, mini LEDs for backlighting and NanoCell to improve color purity and reduce the bloom effect, even at high brightness.
• ULED (Ultra Light Emitting Diode). This is not a specific display technology, but a term used by Hisense to describe its high-quality LED TVs that combine the above image-enhancing technologies.
• NanoCell. LG employs nanoparticles that filter and refine the colors emitted by the LED backlight to produce purer images. A couple of pluses: it greatly improves the viewing angle, allowing optimal viewing from any position, including from the side, without color distortion or loss of brightness. This becomes crucial as TVs get larger. It also supports the most advanced HDR standards.

RESOLUTION

The better seen, the better: do we all agree? Let's get straight to the point.

• HD (High Definition) - 1280 x 720. For screens up to 32 inches, HD resolution is sufficient to provide good picture quality without pixels being visible to the naked eye from a normal viewing distance.
• Full HD (Full High Definition) - 1920 x 1080. Full HD is the minimum standard for those seeking good picture quality. It is suitable for most situations and provides good sharpness on TVs up to 50 inches.
• 4K UHD (Ultra High Definition) - 3840 x 2160. Ideal for those seeking higher picture quality with more detail, especially on larger screens (50 inches and up).
• 8K UHD - 7680 x 4320. 8K is the choice for those who want to be on the cutting edge of technology. Ideal for large screens (65 inches and above) and for a stunning experience. Consider, however, that 8K content is still very limited and 8K TVs are significantly more expensive.

OPERATING SYSTEM AND TOP BRANDS: SAMSUNG TV AND LG TV

Choosing the right operating system (and therefore brand) for your TV is crucial because it affects ease of use, available features, and compatibility with other apps and devices. Here is an overview of the major TV operating systems:

• Tizen (Samsung). Known for its intuitive and smooth user interface, this is an operating system based on Linux and many other open source components. It offers a wide range of apps through the Samsung Smart Hub, including major streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more.
• webOS (LG). In line with the big boys in the market, it integrates all the conveniences you may need and is especially popular for its intuitiveness. It uses an Artificial Intelligence engine that customizes suggestions according to user preferences. The Magic Remote also offers advanced voice control and navigation features, as well as quick access buttons for popular streaming services.
• VIDAA (Hisense). Hisense introduces VIDAA U7, the new operating system for its Smart TVs with improved layout and customized viewing suggestions. Also being a standalone application, it offers free video-on-demand programs with a daily content update. VIDAA Voice supports 22 languages, allows creation of multiple user profiles, synchronization of settings through a cloud service, and PayPal account linking for payments.
• Android TV (Google). Well, it doesn't need much introduction. Android TV offers access to a huge number of apps via Google Play Store, including compatibility with many non-TV-specific Android apps. It supports, of course, Google Assistant for voice control and smart home integration. Be aware, however, that the interface may vary by manufacturer and can sometimes be less intuitive than Tizen or webOS.
• Saphi (Philips). Saphi, also based on Linux, is a more basic operating system than the others, yet it offers easy and direct access to popular content and apps such as Netflix and YouTube. It has fewer apps but remains the ideal solution if you are considering an inexpensive Philips TV and do not need advanced features.

In short, key is to consider the existing ecosystem: if you already have devices from a certain brand or use certain services, choosing a TV with a compatible operating system may offer better integration. Every TV boasts an incredible array of apps, but don't worry, almost all of them support the must-haves such as Netflix, Amazon Video, YouTube, Disney Plus, and many others. To help you out, from the search filters in our catalog you can select the apps that just can't be missed on your new TV!

CONNECTION

If you don't want to spend your game session grumbling or saddened because at the most beautiful moment the movie turned into a loading wheel, read well here.

• LAN (Ethernet). A wired connection offers maximum stability and speed, which is essential for high-definition or 4K streaming, online gaming, and fast downloads. This is especially useful if your Wi-Fi network is overloaded or not completely reliable.
• Wi-Fi 5. It offers good speeds and is compatible with most modern home networks. Suitable for HD and 4K streaming over moderate distances.
• Wi-Fi 6. The latest version that provides higher speeds, better network management in congested environments, and lower latency. Ideal for households with many connected devices and for streaming 4K content or online gaming.
• Wi-Fi 2.4. Has greater coverage and penetrates obstacles such as walls and floors better, but is more prone to interference.

FREQUENCY

Frequency indicates how many times per second the image on the screen is updated. A higher value means a smoother image, especially useful in fast-paced scenes such as action movies, sports or video games. 60 Hz is a good average for most content, 100 Hz or 120 Hz is good for gamers, sportsmen or demanding viewers.

HDMI AND USB

When choosing a Smart TV, the number of available HDMI ports is critical, especially if you have or plan to have multiple devices to connect to the TV, such as a game console, Blu-ray player, or soundbar. Two, three or four ports, be forward-thinking and ensure maximum flexibility.

Similar discussion can be made with USB ports. Mice, keyboards, thumb drives for photos or music, external drives: having at least one can always come in handy! Carefully assessing your needs will help you make an informed choice that meets your expectations without unnecessary additional costs.

TUNER

The tuner determines what types of TV signals you can receive. Once again, we are here to make your life easier:

• Analog. With the advancement of technology and the transition to digital broadcasting, analog tuners now replace the old set-top boxes, which are then, for televisions that provide it, already built-in.
• DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting - Terrestrial). Good for receiving standard digital terrestrial broadcasts, but are becoming obsolete with the adoption of more advanced systems such as DVB-T2.
• DVB-T2 (Digital Video Broadcasting - Second Generation Terrestrial). Improved version of DVB-T, with greater capacity and efficiency, also supports high-definition and 4K content.
• DVB-C (Digital Video Broadcasting - Cable). Required if you plan to receive cable TV.
• DVB-S (Digital Video Broadcasting - Satellite). Required if you use or plan to use a satellite dish.
• DVB-S2 (Digital Video Broadcasting - Second Generation Satellite). An improved version of DVB-S, offering greater efficiency and support for HD and 4K broadcasts.
• DVB-T2C. Combination of DVB-T2 and DVB-C in one device, great for those who need flexibility between terrestrial and cable broadcasts.
• DVB-T2CS2. Combination of DVB-T2, DVB-C and DVB-S2. Provides maximum flexibility to receive terrestrial, cable and satellite signals.
• DVB-T2CS2 x 2 (dual tuners). Two DVB-T2CS2 tuners that allow you to watch one program while recording another.
• T2-HD. Variant of DVB-T2 optimized for HD.
• DVB-T2CS2/HEVC. Combines DVB-T2CS2 with support for the HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) codec for improved video compression.

Choosing the right tuner will ensure you can access all the channels and services available in your area.

We stop here. We hope we have clarified your ideas a bit and enticed you to take full advantage of the possibilities of technology. Assess your space, your devices and your Internet connection well-you can't go wrong. And for anything, as always, we are on the front line to answer all your questions. Contact us for a quote or personalized consultation!

Your Vieffetrade Team