How to choose a TV in 2025 – the best models, specifications

How to choose a TV, important features, popular models in 2022. Among the many TV models it is difficult to choose a decent option, so you should narrow down the choice in advance. This article will discuss how to choose a TV for different tasks and budget. Let’s pay attention to how modern TVs differ from each other, highlight the best models for different types of use, and compile a step-by-step guide to choosing a model.

What characteristics to look for when choosing a modern TV

Before buying, you need to decide what parameters the TV should meet. Let’s talk about the main characteristics of all TVs and how they differ from each other. Thanks to competent selection, you can choose a high-quality model and not overpay for unnecessary functionality.

Availability of Smart TV

Smart TV is the presence of an operating system with smart functions that allow you not only to watch TV via cable or satellite, but also to connect to the Internet. A smart TV can be connected via Wi-Fi or a cable from a router and perform the following functions:

1. Watch videos on YouTube.
2. Watch movies on online cinemas of different developers.
3. Broadcast content from other gadgets, such as a phone or computer, also over the air.
4. Play casual games from the manufacturer’s app store.
5. Install third-party applications and use a browser.

Inexpensive TVs may not have SmartTV. This option is suitable if you plan to use only television. You can also separately purchase a TV set-top box and install it using an
HDMI or USB connector, in which case, even without the built-in operating system, the TV will become smart. https://cxcvb.com/texnika/pristavka/android-luchshie-modeli-2022.html Such set-top boxes cost up to 3,000 rubles and are usually distinguished by more powerful stuffing than built-in Smart TVs.
TVs that have SmartTV from the factory can be controlled through several popular operating systems, namely:

1. Android TV can install many applications (even pirated ones), but it is slow and has an atypical interface with a lot of buttons. Perfect for knowledgeable people or those who want to install something specific. This system is chosen by most manufacturers, namely Sony, Xiaomi, Philips, TCL and others.
2. Tizen is found in all Samsung TVs, it is a simple system with everything you need and an intuitive desktop. All popular cinemas are available and fast switching between analog / satellite dish and Smart TV.
3. LG TVs run on webOS – the system supports multitasking, access to most popular streaming services and has a convenient menu. You can install programs on it, but there are few options available. Many streaming services are supported and there is a browser.

Display Diagonal

The diagonal shows how big the TV screen will be. It should be chosen based on the distance at which the content will be viewed. Here is a comparison picture that will help you choose a diagonal:

Attention! The value is specified depending on the resolution of the matrix (this will be discussed later in the article). If the TV has a high pixel density (1080p or more), then it is possible to place it closer, and if it is low (720p or less), then it is better to move away from the screen to avoid graininess.

Small TVs up to 30 inches are well suited
in the kitchen or bedroom for background viewing of something. Also, small options are considered if they want to install it on a wall in a corner, since large dimensions have a higher weight. The recommended display size is at least 24 inches for a TV in the bedroom and at least 32 inches for the living room, and 43 inches or more is even better. To watch regular TV, you need to be at a distance of 3 TV diagonals from the display, but this is just a tip, everyone adjusts to their preferences. To view the rest of the content type, you can already use the table above, it is recommended by the matrix manufacturers themselves.

In fact, it is the diagonal that is one of the most important decisions. It is better to take a larger option for regular video viewing, or a smaller option to save money.

Matrix type

The matrix determines how high quality the image will be. There are two main types of matrix: LCD and OLED. https://cxcvb.com/texnika/televizor/texnology/amoled-ili-ips-chto-luchshe.html LCDs (liquid crystal displays) have a separate backlight under the glass, so they do not have deep blacks and high brightness. But such screens are cheaper, more durable and do not harm the human eye at all. OLED matrices have infinite deep color, high contrast and brightness. But they are subject to pixel burn-in and PWM (the brightness does not change, and the change in the degree of glow is achieved using a fast flicker). LCD matrices, in turn, are divided into several subspecies, namely:

1. IPS (LCD) is the most common type of matrix. It has excellent color reproduction and viewing angles, but response time suffers.
2. QLED is an advanced technology with high-quality backlight, from which the picture becomes more contrast and bright. There is also a slightly improved version of Neo QLED, which is found only in very expensive devices.
3. Nano Cell is LG’s patented technology. This is an improved IPS with improvements in color reproduction.

All types of screens do not differ much from each other in everyday life, their quality is more influenced by the quality of components, that is, the price of the TV.

Important! Some manufacturers in the specifications indicate the type of LED matrix backlight. This is a way to backlight LCD displays, that is, such devices have IPS. With this method, the LEDs are located around the matrix. This method leads to small highlights in the black areas. Direct LED and Edge LED do not have this drawback, but are more expensive.

https://cxcvb.com/texnika/televizor/texnology/edge-led-i-direct-led.html

Image resolution

Resolution affects the number of pixels that are on the canvas. The higher the resolution, the clearer the image will be. This parameter has several values, but more often there are options such as:

1. 480p, 720×576 dots (DV) . Outdated quality, it is not worth considering.
2. 720p, 1366×768 pixels (HD quality) . Inexpensive option for watching TV. Can be used for home videos or YouTube.
3. 1080p, 1920×1080 pixels (FullHD quality) . An average option that gives high quality for little money. The best fit is on TV, movies and YouTube.
4. 1440p, 2560×1440 dots (2K quality) . Rarely seen, used mainly for consoles or viewing the YouTube site.
5. 2160p, 3840×2160 pixels (4K quality) . Modern type of resolution with the highest quality. Not all sources can broadcast video in this resolution, now 4K is worth choosing for online cinemas, gaming and YouTube. An excellent choice for the future, as all videos will soon switch to this standard.

Note! In addition to resolution, support for HDR technology affects clarity. This function makes the picture on the display brighter and clearer, and therefore improves it. There is a regular version of HDR and HDR10, which performs its function even better.

Having the right connectors

The TV should have a lot of connectors for different tasks, basically you should focus on the presence of USB and HDMI for connecting additional peripherals. Using USB, you can plug in a flash drive with movies or home videos and photos. Thanks to HDMI, TV set-top boxes or consoles are connected. You should also pay attention to the following interfaces:

• LAN (Ethernet) – a connector for the Internet, you have to if you do not want to connect the TV to Wi-Fi.
• RF (antenna) – for installing an antenna.
• S-video – a set of connectors for processing 480p TV signal.
• Composite, A / V input (tulips) – for connecting TV in better quality than from an antenna, up to 1080p.
• Audio output (3.5 mm) – for individual speakers.

Device reliability and brand

According to statistics, Samsung and LG TVs are the least likely to break. Their equipment occasionally suffers from disruption of the PSU, repairs require a complete replacement of the part. Not so often, Sony, Polarline, Xiaomi and Toshiba also have problems. TVs from Panasonic and STARWIND (in the budget segment) are considered the best in terms of reliability. However, you should not seriously rely on these statistics, since the error does not exceed a couple of percent.

You should avoid unknown brands, TVs under $100 and SkyLine and Prestigio (their equipment breaks down very often, and most of the reviews are negative).

Other characteristics to consider when choosing

In addition to the basic parameters of the TV, you need to pay attention to additional little things, such as:

1. Location of connectors . It happens that after installing the gadget, its connectors are blocked by a nightstand or wall. It is better to decide in advance from which side you need to have access to them.
2. Remote control quality. Some TV models have minimalist remotes with support for a voice assistant and a virtual mouse.
3. Speaker power . The best options would be a sound above 10 W (for large rooms from 16 W). Below this value, you should choose models that are not required to work in noisy environments.

Examples of the Best TVs in 2022 – Editors’ Choice

Let’s analyze examples of good TVs in terms of price-quality ratio for different tasks. The rating is formed for informational purposes and is based on reviews of real buyers. Use this information as an example. Inexpensive models up to 32 inches are great as a second TV, as they do not take up much space and fit well “under the background”. TVs above 32 inches are the gold standard in the market and are more commonly used due to their price and size. Devices with a price above 50,000 rubles should be taken only if the buyer is sure that he needs a large diagonal, 4K resolution and a high-quality QLED or OLED matrix.

Thomson T24RTE1280

An inexpensive option for 24 inches for 10,000 rubles. The TV stands out with a good volume of 16 watts, which is suitable for noisy places, and a stylish design with thin bezels. It does not have Smart TV, so you should take it only for watching TV. The display features are as follows: HD resolution, IPS matrix, high brightness. There is support for a USB connector, but without HDMI.

KIVI 24H740L HDR LED

TV for 13,500 rubles with the presence of Smart TV on the Android operating system. This small 24-inch gadget will decorate the room with a modern design and a high-quality IPS screen with uniform LED backlighting. It has an HD display with support for high contrast HDR technology. All necessary connectors are included. 10W speakers, enough for normal use.

Xiaomi Mi TV P1 32 LED (2021) EN

Stylish TV from Xiaomi for 18,000 rubles for 32 inches. It has everything you need for everyday use, including Smart TV based on Android. The Miracast wireless data transfer standard is supported, so you can tie the device to your phone and quickly display photos and videos on the big screen. Resolution is 720p (HD), IPS matrix. 10W speakers. Everything you need is available from the connectors, including several USB and three HDMI.

SkyLine 40LST5975 LED (2021)

A large 40-inch TV with a special operating system from Yandex, which supports control using the voice assistant Alice. The price is 18,000 rubles, but there are often discounts. In addition to the wide screen, the model may be of interest to low cost, FullHD resolution and powerful 16W speakers. From the connectors there is everything you need.

Samsung UE32N5000AU LED (2018)

Mid-budget 31.5-inch TV for 20,000 rubles from a well-known manufacturer. A universal option for watching TV or for connecting a smart set-top box. There is no Smart TV here, but the rest of the features are on top: FullHD resolution, LED screen technology, there are two HDMI ports and one USB. The power of the speakers is weak for such a price, namely 10 watts.

LG 43LM5772PLA LED, HDR (2021)

A very reliable and beautiful TV from LG for 28,000 rubles with a diagonal of 43 inches and FullHD resolution. IPS matrix with Direct LED, which provides a very high quality picture and high brightness thanks to the support of HDR10 technology. The disadvantages include a weak volume of 10 W and only one USB connector (there are usually several of them in this price segment). Works under control of proprietary operating system webOS. As mentioned earlier, this is a lightweight but feature-packed shell that is not hard to figure out.

Polarline 55PU11TC-SM LED HDR (2019)

A relatively inexpensive option with a 4K resolution matrix and a diagonal of 55 inches. The price starts from 28,000 rubles. Supports Android Smart TV, all important peripherals and has very powerful 20 watt speakers. IPS matrix with high-quality Direct LED backlight. However, color reproduction is not as good as lower-resolution competitors, in particular the lack of HDR support.

Samsung UE43TU7002U LED, HDR (2020)

An example of an inexpensive but high-quality solution from a well-known manufacturer. The specified model has excellent characteristics and costs 30,000 rubles, for this money you can get the following:

• 4K resolution with HDR10 support and even edge LED backlighting.
• Smart TV support from Samsung with a stylish minimalist design and built-in Miracast.
• Thin bezels and an average screen size of 43 inches.
• Powerful 20W stereo speakers.

This option is suitable for almost every user who wants to get the maximum for the minimum money. The diagonal is not so large for 4K resolution, but because of this it can be placed closer (about 4 meters according to the table).

LG 43NANO776PA NanoCell, HDR (2021)

A TV from LG with a Nano Cell matrix (improved IPS) costs 40,000 rubles and can offer very high-quality images, support for 4K and HDR10. It also has SmartTV, support for Miracast and Airplay (the technology for broadcasting content to a TV over the air from iPhones and other Apple gadgets). It is worth highlighting the stylish design with minimal frames at a diagonal of 43 inches. Stereo speakers with 20W surround audio.

Samsung QE43Q60ABUXRU LED, QLED, HDR (2021)

Samsung is considered the main alternative to LG, they also have their own LCD technology, which is installed in this TV and is called QLED. The picture quality is close to ideal due to the maximum viewing angles, high saturation and accurate color reproduction. The resolution is 4K, HDR10 is supported. It has a built-in Smart TV and support for wireless broadcasting from other mobile devices. There are no connectors for TV antennas and tuners, but there are USB, HDMI and Ethernet. The 20W speakers produce an excellent stereo effect.

LG OLED48A1RLA OLED, HDR (2021)

An example of an expensive and high-quality TV with a 48-inch OLED matrix. Its cost starts from the mark of 70,000 rubles. For the money, the TV has high brightness with contrast, perfectly deep blacks and maximum viewing angles. e 4K resolution, HDR10 support. Works on Smart TV from LG called webOS. 20W speakers with surround stereo support (immersive cinema experience). In general, the model cannot offer cardinal differences from TVs under 40,000 rubles. It should be considered only after comparing IPS and OLED live, since not all people see the point in overpaying for innovative display technology. How to choose a TV in 2022, what to look for, what characteristics are important: https://youtu.be/RUrMWnY_Gvg

Step by Step Guide to Buying the Best TV

To buy a quality TV, you should answer a few questions for yourself, and then it will be much easier to determine the best model.

1. What’s the budget? TVs from 10,000 rubles will be small, without Smart TV and with a low resolution of the matrix. For 20,000 rubles, you can pick up a great option with everything you need and SmartTV. Over 30,000 rubles are offered by upgraded TVs with a large diagonal and high-quality matrices with 4K resolution.
2. What screen size do you need? You should not take small TVs less than 32 inches into the main room, they will not be so pleasant to watch videos even up close. At the same time, a huge screen can cause discomfort in small rooms.
3. What will the TV be used for? For ordinary television, HD resolution is enough, but if you want to watch movies or videos from the Internet, it is better to take FullHD. A higher resolution will be useful for gamers and lovers of high-quality films. You should also think about the availability of the necessary connectors for the antenna, TV box and tuner.

This concludes the instruction for choosing a TV. Choosing the best model is not as difficult as it might seem, because at its core, TVs are made according to the same standards. The main thing is to clearly define for what purposes the gadget is needed.