How to choose an LED TV

Deciding on Screen Size

In fact, the choice of screen size has little to do with the type of TV. In most cases, the correct diagonal size can be determined based on the distance between the potential viewer and the TV screen, as well as the resolution of the display. In this case, you definitely can't go wrong. The best option is to buy a TV with a diagonal of at least 32-42 inches. For this size, the optimal viewing distance is 2.5 to 3 meters—ideal for a standard apartment or living room.

A model with a smaller diagonal will not be able to showcase its full potential, and you may simply miss out on some of the applied technologies. Of course, price is also an important factor to consider. It is quite logical that as the screen size increases with the same functionality, the price also goes up. You shouldn't blindly chase larger sizes; instead, you should carefully balance your financial capabilities with your desired screen size and then find the best option. By the way, you can read a detailed article on how to choose the right TV diagonal.

Settling on Resolution

In fact, the choice of resolution is closely related to the choice of TV size. If we disregard the parameters of the displayed image, the diagonal and screen resolution play one of the main roles in image perception. The higher the screen resolution, the more fine details and effects you will be able to see. This is because resolution determines the number of pixels on the screen, which in turn form the image. With lower resolution, small imperfections begin to appear upon closer inspection—various jagged edges or pixelation. If possible, try to buy a TV with a higher resolution. You can find more information about resolution in this article.

Choosing the Type of Backlight

In general, there are two types of LED screen backlighting: edge-lit and direct-lit (Edge and Direct). In the first case, all LEDs are placed along the edges of the screen, making the model very thin. In the second case, the LEDs are positioned behind the screen, providing more uniform and consistent backlighting. This results in better contrast and deeper black levels but makes the screen noticeably thicker. When testing your preferred TV model, simply pay attention to the image quality with different backlighting types. While this information may not be crucial for you, it is still better to have a general understanding of what type of product you are dealing with.

Selecting the Refresh Rate

This parameter is responsible for the number of frames displayed per second. In other words, a refresh rate of 60 Hz means that 60 frames are shown on the screen every second. Ideally, your TV should support a frequency above 100 Hz. If the refresh rate is too low, in scenes with rapid movement or dynamic changes, the image can become blurry, with minor interruptions or subtle stuttering.

Modern LED TVs use an interesting technology that inserts intermediate frames to stabilize the image. Adding one extra frame at a 60 Hz refresh rate results in 120 Hz. Adding three more frames increases the refresh rate to 240 Hz. This way, the image retains its quality and clarity even in fast-paced scenes.

Another trick is using scanning backlight, which performs the same function—boosting the refresh rate. However, this method turns the LED backlight on and off at a certain frequency, reducing brightness and causing unwanted screen flicker. The best choice is a model that combines both technologies, resulting in a refresh rate of 800-900 Hz. Pay attention to this option when choosing a TV.

Type of Screen Coating

There are two types of screen coatings: matte and glossy. Both types of LED TVs are available on the market. The advantage of a glossy finish is a brighter image with higher contrast levels. The downside is that it reflects sunlight or bright room lights. The advantage of a matte finish is the absence of glare and reflections, but the image clarity is slightly lower. This parameter should be chosen based solely on your own preferences and needs.

Availability of 3D Functionality

The active development and improvement of 3D display technology have led to its frequent use in LED TVs. This feature significantly increases the cost of the TV. However, if you need it, you will have to decide which 3D technology to choose—passive or active.

Function Connectors

When choosing an LED TV, be sure to pay attention to the number and types of connectors on the back panel. Nowadays, a large number of devices can interact effectively with a TV, such as DVD players, media players, and receivers. Connectors are necessary for proper connection and operation.

The TV should have multiple HDMI ports (responsible for digital audio and video signal transmission), and it’s also important to check for audio and video outputs for transmitting signals from the TV to other devices. A USB port is also useful, allowing you to work with external storage devices.

Conclusion

The recommendations outlined above should help you choose an LED TV and understand the key parameters. You should have a clear idea of what kind of product you need and strive to find the closest match.

Good luck in selecting and purchasing your LED TV!