Briefly about Smart TV
A Smart TV blends computer and mobile technology inside a modern television shell. Its speed and performance depend on the hardware, while the pre-installed operating system shapes its capabilities and app ecosystem.
Industry expert Yury Knyazev, editor-in-chief of M.Video brand media M.Click, outlines five essential considerations when selecting a smart TV.
“In a small room, avoid an overly large screen. If a TV resembles a computer monitor in size, a very high resolution offers little advantage.”
Image enhancement features can be worthwhile. Even on an average screen, technologies like HDR can noticeably improve the picture quality.
TimeShift support is another practical feature. While not all apps permit pausing or rewinding, TimeShift allows you to pause live TV and even jump to different moments in a live program.
Smart TVs with voice control, easy input, and smart search deserve attention, since finding a movie or clip on services like YouTube is often smoother than typing with a remote.
A Wi‑Fi module not only enables Internet access but also links the TV with other devices on a single network. This makes features like mirroring from a smartphone to the TV straightforward.
In essence, Smart TV operates much like a regular television but expands with thousands of apps for streaming movies, gaming, and more online.
Size and Resolution
When choosing a TV, the diagonal size matters. A good rule of thumb is to position the viewer about 2.5 to 3 screen diagonals away from the TV. For a sofa three meters away, a 40 to 48 inch screen is typically comfortable, ensuring the entire screen stays within the field of view without turning the head.
Resolution remains important too. Higher resolutions reduce the visible mosaic effect. Full HD is adequate for screens up to about 40 inches, but for larger diagonals 4K or higher is preferable to keep images sharp and detailed.
LED or QLED?
Common backlight technologies today include LED, QLED, and OLED. Separate local dimming variants are generally avoided for most consumer choices. An LED TV suffices for many users and supports up to 4K without issue.
QLED offers a brighter image, stronger contrast, and wider color gamut thanks to quantum dot technology. OLED displays provide deep blacks and rich colors by illuminating each pixel independently, though they come at a higher price and may require care to avoid burn-in with static content.
For budget-minded buyers, an LED-backlit TV is a solid option. If you want richer color and brightness, consider QLED. Emerging technologies like mini-LED and advanced matrix designs are expanding, but price and availability vary.
Operating System and Applications
Choosing the right operating system matters. Android TV is popular for its app store access and customization, including Google Play and other marketplaces. WebOS is another strong option, known for its clean interface and broad app support, though its catalog may be smaller.
Manufacturers also offer their own systems. Some brands provide stand-alone platforms that rival Android in functionality. Before buying, check the available apps and the ecosystem of each option.
Smart TVs enable installation of countless apps, especially on Android-based platforms. Customization options exist for the home screen, and third-party launchers can alter the experience. Streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, and local alternatives broaden entertainment choices.
Some users value the ability to access IPTV and other live content through apps that aggregate playlists from various channels. There are both free and paid options available, depending on the region and service provider.
Brands and Models
Top brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, Philips, TCL, Hisense, and Haier remain popular choices for North American buyers. Other budget-friendly options expand the field, with models offered by reputable manufacturers that balance price and performance.
Experts often recommend starting with 43- and 50-inch classes for a versatile home setup that suits most spaces and uses, including movie watching and gaming.
For instance, a 43-inch Android TV from a mainstream brand provides solid performance for living rooms or kitchens, with voice-enabled remotes for hands-free control. In many markets, 43-inch models offer competitive value and dependable functionality.
Another 43-inch option with strong performance and efficient processors can handle more demanding apps. QLED variants or higher-end panels may improve brightness and color accuracy for brighter rooms.
Market analysis shows attractive deals across brands during promotions, making it possible to find feature-rich TVs at appealing prices. Dictionary of specs varies by model, but the focus remains on screen size, resolution, backlight technology, and smart features that enhance everyday viewing.
Backlight technology and processing power influence overall image quality. Contemporary 50-inch models with 4K and modern processors provide smooth gameplay and sharp, vibrant visuals, while compact 43-inch sets offer practical versatility for different spaces.
You better not save
The modern TV market is saturated with Smart TVs that fit a range of tastes and budgets. Prices have become more accessible while capabilities have expanded. The first smartphones and early TVs set the pace for affordability and features, and today’s screens deliver more for less.
It is important to avoid overly cheap choices if the goal is longevity. Cheaper sets with limited RAM or weak processors may struggle with app performance over time, especially as streaming platforms update their apps. A solid mid-range TV often delivers better long-term reliability than a bargain-basement option.