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Buying a new TV can be a daunting task, especially with so many options and features to choose from. You may have questions like: What size should I get? What resolution is best? What is HDR and why does it matter? How do I connect my devices and stream my favorite shows?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions when buying a new TV and help you find the perfect one for your needs and budget.
What size should I get?
The size of your TV depends on two factors: the size of your room and the distance from your couch or bed. A general rule of thumb is to multiply the distance in feet by 7.7 to get the ideal screen size in inches. For example, if you sit 10 feet away from your TV, you should get a 77-inch TV.
However, this is just a guideline and you may prefer a larger or smaller TV depending on your personal preference and viewing habits. You should also consider the available space and wall-mounting options in your room.
What resolution is best?
Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen. More pixels mean more detail and clarity. The most common resolutions are:
- Full HD (1080p): This is the standard resolution for most TVs and content. It offers good picture quality and is suitable for smaller TVs (32 inches or less) or budget-friendly options.
- 4K (2160p): This is the current standard for high-end TVs and content. It offers four times the pixels of Full HD and delivers stunning detail and realism. It is ideal for larger TVs (40 inches or more) and future-proofing your purchase.
- 8K (4320p): This is the next-generation resolution for cutting-edge TVs and content. It offers 16 times the pixels of Full HD and delivers unparalleled clarity and depth. It is best for very large TVs (70 inches or more) and early adopters who want the best of the best.
Keep in mind that the resolution of your TV should match the resolution of your content. For example, if you watch mostly Full HD content, you won’t see much difference on a 4K or 8K TV. However, most 4K and 8K TVs have upscaling technology that can enhance lower-resolution content to look better on the screen.
What is HDR and why does it matter?
HDR stands for High Dynamic Range and it is a feature that enhances the contrast and color of the picture. It makes the bright areas brighter, the dark areas darker, and the colors more vivid and realistic. It creates a more immersive and lifelike viewing experience.
However, not all HDR TVs are created equal. There are different formats of HDR, such as HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Each format has its own specifications and benefits, and some are more advanced and widely supported than others. You should look for a TV that supports the most common and compatible formats, such as HDR10+ or Dolby Vision.
How do I connect my devices and stream my favorite shows?
To connect your devices and stream your favorite shows, you need to consider the ports and smart features of your TV. Here are some tips:
- Look for at least four HDMI ports. HDMI is the standard connection for most devices, such as cable boxes, game consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming sticks. You should look for a TV that has at least four HDMI ports, so you can connect multiple devices without switching cables. You should also opt for the newer HDMI 2.1 format if you can, as it supports higher resolutions, refresh rates, and audio formats.
- Look for an HDR-compatible set. HDR is a feature that enhances the contrast and color of the picture. It makes the bright areas brighter, the dark areas darker, and the colors more vivid and realistic. It creates a more immersive and lifelike viewing experience.
- Look for a smart TV. A smart TV is a TV that has built-in internet connectivity and access to streaming apps, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more. It saves you the hassle of buying and connecting a separate streaming device, and lets you enjoy your favorite shows and movies with a few clicks. Some smart TVs also have voice assistants, such as Alexa or Google Assistant, that let you control your TV and other smart devices with your voice.
- Plan to buy a soundbar. TV speakers are not very good nowadays, because the screens are thinner and leave less room for sound quality. If you want to enjoy better sound, you should plan to buy a soundbar. A soundbar is a long speaker that sits below or above your TV and delivers richer and clearer sound. Some soundbars also come with a subwoofer or rear speakers for extra bass and surround sound.
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