Televisions

What Features Do I really Need On a TV?

As you may already know TVs are now very technological and the features they come with are changing at an every growing rate. If you blink, you’ll miss something game-changing. Many of us purchase a TV every 2-10 years. This is a very long time in terms of technology. The general rule is that tech gets twice as fast and half the size every few years. What you were looking for in a TV when you last purchased one, may now be more or less obsolete. Does anyone still have a TV with a SCART connector. They are more or less history now! How about HDTV, that seemed to be the best thing back in the day but now, we are looking at 4 or even 8K televisions on the market.

Our aim is to get you back up to speed as simply as possible without any complicated tech jargon that makes you reconsider upgrading your current device. We are going to list the features you ought to be looking out for on a TV you’re buying now. We will even give them an importance rating ranking from 1 to 3 (where 3 is most important and 1 would be classed as a bonus to have but not a deal breaker).

 

1. 4K or 8K Resolution: Ultra High Definition (UHD) resolution for incredibly sharp and detailed images.

2. HDR (High Dynamic Range): Enhanced contrast and color for more lifelike and vibrant visuals.

3. Smart TV Functionality: Built-in internet connectivity and access to streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube.

4. Voice Control: Integrated voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free operation.

5. Local Dimming: Improved contrast by adjusting the brightness of individual zones of the screen.

6. High Refresh Rates: Higher refresh rates like 120Hz or 240Hz for smoother motion handling, ideal for gaming and sports.

7. Gaming Mode: Low input lag and high refresh rates for a better gaming experience.

8. Multiple HDMI and USB Ports: Connectivity options for various devices, including gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and soundbars.

9. Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connecting to the internet and peripheral devices.

10. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X: Advanced audio technologies for immersive sound experiences.

11. Screen Mirroring: The ability to cast content from a smartphone or tablet to the TV.

12. Smart Home Integration: Compatibility with smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit or Google Home.

13. Energy Efficiency: Energy-saving features and energy rating labels for eco-conscious consumers.

14. Voice Remote Control: Remotes with built-in microphones for voice commands.

15. Cable Management: Built-in cable management systems to keep wires tidy.

16. Ambient Mode: Displaying art, photos, or information when the TV is not in use.

17. Nanocell or Quantum Dot Technology: Enhanced color accuracy and wider color gamuts.

18. Bluetooth Audio: Connecting wireless headphones or speakers for private listening.

19. Multiple Viewing Modes: Preset picture and sound modes for different content types.

20. Screen Size Options: A range of screen sizes to accommodate different room sizes and preferences.

21. USB Recording: Recording live TV shows or content to an external USB drive.

22. Parental Controls: Features to restrict content for children.

23. Firmware Updates: Regular software updates to improve performance and add new features.

24. Built-in Chromecast or AirPlay: Easy screen mirroring and content sharing from mobile devices.

25. Curved Displays (Optional): Curved screens for a more immersive viewing experience (less common nowadays).

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)

Definition: HDMI is a digital audio-video interface used to transmit high-definition audio and video signals between devices. It allows for the seamless transfer of both audio and video over a single cable.

First Use: HDMI was first introduced in 2003.

Importance: HDMI has become the standard for connecting various multimedia devices such as TVs, computers, gaming consoles, and home theater systems. Its importance lies in its ability to provide high-quality, high-definition audio and video transmission, simplifying connections and enhancing the overall multimedia experience. As technology continues to advance, HDMI remains crucial for ensuring compatibility and delivering excellent audio-visual quality.

 

HDR (High Dynamic Range):

Definition: HDR is a technology that enhances the contrast, brightness, and color accuracy of images and videos. It allows for a broader range of colors and luminance levels, resulting in more lifelike and vivid visuals.

Invention/First Use: The concept of HDR has been around for a while, but it gained prominence in the TV industry in the mid-2010s with the introduction of HDR-capable displays and content.

Importance Going Forward: HDR is a significant advancement in display technology, making content look more realistic and engaging. It’s crucial for future entertainment because it allows viewers to experience a wider spectrum of colors and brightness levels, creating a more immersive and enjoyable viewing experience. As content creators continue to embrace HDR, it will play a pivotal role in shaping the quality of video and gaming experiences.

 

Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity):

Definition: Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that enables devices to connect to the internet and communicate with each other using radio waves. It allows for wireless data transmission, enabling internet access and local network connections without the need for physical cables.

Invention/First Use: Wi-Fi technology was first introduced in the late 1990s, with the release of the IEEE 802.11 standard.

Importance Going Forward: Wi-Fi has revolutionized the way we access the internet and share data. It has become an integral part of our daily lives, supporting various devices like smartphones, laptops, smart home devices, and more. As technology continues to advance, Wi-Fi’s importance will only grow, providing faster and more reliable wireless connections for an increasingly interconnected world. It plays a crucial role in enabling the Internet of Things (IoT), smart homes, and the future of digital communication.

 

Smart TV:

Definition: A Smart TV is a television set that is equipped with internet connectivity and integrated software or apps, allowing users to access a wide range of online content, streaming services, and interactive features directly through their TV.

Invention/First Use: The concept of Smart TVs began in the early 2000s, but they gained popularity and widespread use in the mid to late 2000s.

Importance Going Forward: Smart TVs have transformed how we consume entertainment. They offer convenient access to streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu, as well as social media, web browsing, and even video games. Going forward, Smart TVs will continue to evolve, integrating more advanced features, voice assistants, and seamless connectivity with other smart devices. They are a central part of the connected home ecosystem, providing access to a wealth of digital content and services.

 

 

4K (Ultra High Definition or UHD):

Definition: 4K, also known as Ultra High Definition (UHD), refers to a display resolution that offers four times the number of pixels as the standard Full HD resolution. It has a pixel resolution of approximately 3840 x 2160 pixels, resulting in sharper and more detailed images and videos.

Invention/First Use: The development of 4K resolution technology began in the early 2000s, and 4K TVs started entering the consumer market in the mid-2010s.

Importance Going Forward: 4K has become a standard in television and content production. It provides a significantly enhanced viewing experience with greater detail and clarity. As the demand for high-quality visuals and larger screen sizes grows, 4K technology remains essential. Moreover, it’s a stepping stone to even higher resolutions like 8K, as technology continues to advance. 4K content is widely available through streaming services, gaming consoles, and Blu-ray discs, making it an important part of the future of home entertainment.

HDTV (High-Definition Television):

Definition: HDTV refers to a television system that provides significantly higher resolution and better picture quality compared to standard-definition television (SDTV). It typically has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels for a widescreen aspect ratio, offering sharper and more detailed images.

Invention/First Use: HDTV technology was first developed and introduced in the late 20th century, with the first HDTV broadcasts in the early 1990s.

 

Importance Going Forward: HDTV revolutionized television by offering viewers a much clearer and more immersive viewing experience. It became the standard for high-quality television broadcasts, setting the stage for the development of even higher resolutions like 4K and 8K. While newer technologies have emerged, HDTV remains relevant and widely used, especially for cable and over-the-air broadcasts. Its importance lies in its role as a foundation for higher-resolution formats and its continued use in various parts of the world.

 

OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode):

Definition: OLED is a display technology that uses organic compounds to emit light when an electric current is applied. Unlike traditional LED or LCD displays, OLED pixels emit their own light individually, allowing for perfect black levels, high contrast ratios, and vibrant colors.

Invention/First Use: The development of OLED technology began in the 1950s, but it gained prominence in the late 20th century. OLED displays started appearing in consumer devices like TVs and smartphones in the mid-2000s.

Importance Going Forward: OLED has had a profound impact on display technology, offering superior image quality, thinner screens, and more flexible form factors. OLED displays are widely used in high-end smartphones, TVs, and even some wearable devices. They are crucial for achieving deeper blacks, better color accuracy, and energy efficiency in displays. As technology continues to advance, OLED is likely to play a significant role in the future of visual displays and lighting.

 

LED TV (Light Emitting Diode Television):

Definition: An LED TV is a type of television that uses LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology to illuminate the screen. LEDs are used as a backlight source behind the screen or as individual pixels in newer OLED TVs. LED TVs offer improved energy efficiency and slim design compared to older technologies like CRT (Cathode Ray Tube).

Invention/First Use: LED technology began being used in TVs in the early 2000s, with the first LED-backlit LCD TVs becoming available to consumers.

Importance Going Forward: LED TVs have become the standard for most flat-panel television displays. They are known for their energy efficiency, slim profiles, and improved image quality compared to older TV technologies. While newer display technologies like OLED and QLED have gained prominence, LED TVs remain popular due to their affordability and versatility. LED technology continues to evolve, offering improved picture quality and energy efficiency, making it a crucial part of the TV market.

 

Satellite Tuner:

Definition: A satellite tuner is a device or component found in satellite receivers and satellite television equipment. It is responsible for receiving and decoding satellite signals to display television channels and content on your TV screen.

Invention/First Use: Satellite television technology began to take shape in the 1960s and 1970s, with early satellite receivers using analog tuners. Digital satellite tuners became more prevalent in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Importance Going Forward: Satellite tuners continue to be essential for receiving satellite TV broadcasts. While streaming services have become popular, satellite television remains crucial, especially in areas with limited internet access. The technology has evolved to support high-definition (HD) and even 4K UHD broadcasts, ensuring that satellite TV remains a reliable source of high-quality entertainment for many people around the world.

 

Digital TV Tuner:

Definition: A digital TV tuner is a device or component found in television sets, set-top boxes, and other TV equipment. It is responsible for receiving and decoding digital television signals, allowing viewers to access digital TV channels.

Invention/First Use: The transition from analog to digital television began in the late 20th century and gained momentum in the early 21st century. Digital TV tuners became standard in TVs and related devices during this transition.

Importance Going Forward: Digital TV tuners have replaced analog tuners, offering improved picture and sound quality and more efficient use of broadcast frequencies. As technology continues to advance, digital TV tuners will remain essential for accessing digital broadcasts, including high-definition (HD) and ultra-high-definition (UHD) content. They are a fundamental component in modern TVs and broadcasting equipment, ensuring viewers can enjoy clear, high-quality television content.

 

 

Inputs (TV Inputs):

Definition: Inputs on a TV refer to the various connection ports that allow external devices to be connected to the television for audio and video transmission. These ports enable users to connect devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, streaming devices, and more to the TV.

Invention/First Use: Inputs on TVs have evolved over time alongside the development of television technology. The introduction of different input types like HDMI, VGA, and USB has occurred gradually over several decades.

Importance Going Forward: Inputs are a critical aspect of modern televisions, as they determine the versatility and compatibility of the TV with external devices. As technology advances, new types of inputs may be introduced to accommodate emerging devices and standards. Having a variety of input options is essential for users to connect and enjoy various content sources on their TVs, ensuring that the television remains a central hub for entertainment and information.

 

QLED TV (Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode Television):

Definition: QLED TV is a type of television that utilizes quantum dot technology to enhance color accuracy, brightness, and overall picture quality. Quantum dots are nanoscale semiconductor particles that emit precise colors when exposed to light.

Invention/First Use: QLED technology emerged in the early 2010s, with Samsung being one of the prominent manufacturers to adopt and promote it.

Importance Going Forward: QLED TVs offer improved color representation and brightness compared to standard LED/LCD displays. They have become a significant player in the high-end TV market, competing with OLED technology. QLEDs are known for their ability to produce vivid colors and high levels of brightness, making them suitable for various viewing environments, including well-lit rooms. As technology continues to advance, QLED TVs are expected to evolve, providing even better picture quality and energy efficiency.

 

Nanocell TV:

Definition: A Nanocell TV is a type of television that utilizes Nanocell technology to enhance color accuracy and display quality. Nanocell technology typically incorporates tiny nanoparticles (nanocrystals) into the TV’s LCD display to improve color purity and reduce color distortion.

Invention/First Use: Nanocell technology was introduced by LG Electronics and was first used in their televisions in the early 2010s.

Importance Going Forward: Nanocell technology is designed to enhance color accuracy and overall picture quality, making it an important feature for those who prioritize vivid and true-to-life colors in their TV viewing experience. Nanocell TVs are positioned as offering better color accuracy compared to standard LED/LCD displays. As technology evolves, Nanocell technology may continue to improve, contributing to even more impressive visual displays in the future.

 

Dolby Vision:

Definition: Dolby Vision is a high dynamic range (HDR) technology developed by Dolby Laboratories. It is designed to enhance the visual quality of images and videos by delivering a wider range of brightness, contrast, and colors compared to standard dynamic range (SDR) content.

Invention/First Use: Dolby Vision was introduced by Dolby Laboratories in 2014.

Importance Going Forward: Dolby Vision has become a key feature in the world of home entertainment, especially in high-end TVs and streaming services. It provides viewers with a more lifelike and immersive visual experience by offering enhanced contrast, brighter highlights, and a wider color gamut. As content creators and TV manufacturers continue to embrace Dolby Vision, it is expected to play a significant role in the future of television and video content, ensuring that viewers enjoy stunning and true-to-life visuals.

 

8K TV:

Definition: An 8K TV is a television that features a display resolution of approximately 7680 x 4320 pixels, which is four times the resolution of 4K Ultra HD and sixteen times the resolution of Full HD. This results in an exceptionally high level of detail and clarity in the displayed images and videos.

Invention/First Use: 8K TV technology was introduced in the consumer market in the late 2010s, with the first commercial 8K TVs becoming available for purchase.

Importance Going Forward: 8K TVs represent the latest advancement in display technology. While 4K TVs have become more common, 8K TVs offer an even higher level of detail and realism, making them particularly suitable for very large screens and situations where precise image quality is essential, such as professional video editing. However, the availability of native 8K content and the need for larger screen sizes to fully appreciate the resolution are factors to consider. As technology and content production continue to evolve, 8K TVs are expected to play a significant role in the future of home entertainment and display technology.

 

 

**TV Energy Rating**:

*Definition*: A TV energy rating, often displayed as an Energy Efficiency Label or Energy Guide label, provides information about a television’s energy consumption and efficiency. It helps consumers make informed choices by indicating how much energy a TV uses and estimating its annual energy cost.

*Invention/First Use*: Energy efficiency labeling for electronics, including TVs, has been in use for several decades, with various countries implementing their own energy rating systems. The specific standards and labels can vary by region.

*Importance Going Forward*: TV energy ratings are important for several reasons:

1. **Energy Efficiency**: They help consumers identify TVs that consume less energy, which not only reduces electricity bills but also contributes to environmental conservation by lowering carbon emissions.

2. **Product Comparison**: Energy labels allow consumers to compare the energy efficiency of different TV models and choose the one that best suits their needs while minimizing energy consumption.

3. **Regulatory Compliance**: Manufacturers are often required to meet specific energy efficiency standards for their products to be sold in certain regions. Energy labels help ensure compliance.

4. **Environmental Impact**: As energy efficiency standards evolve, energy labels encourage manufacturers to design and produce more energy-efficient TVs, which can have a positive impact on reducing overall energy consumption.

In some regions, you may also find additional information on the label, such as the TV’s screen size, estimated yearly electricity consumption, and comparisons to similar models. Understanding and paying attention to these energy ratings can help consumers make environmentally responsible choices and save on energy costs.

 

**Screen Size**:

*Definition*: Screen size refers to the diagonal measurement of a display screen, typically measured in inches. It is the distance from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner, passing through the center. Screen size is a critical specification for televisions, monitors, laptops, and other electronic displays.

*Invention/First Use*: The concept of screen size has been a part of display technology since the invention of televisions and monitors, dating back to the early 20th century.

*Importance Going Forward*: Screen size is important because it directly affects the viewing experience. Larger screens are often preferred for immersive entertainment, such as watching movies or playing video games, as they provide a more expansive and engaging view. However, the ideal screen size depends on factors like viewing distance and personal preference. As technology evolves, display screens continue to come in various sizes to cater to diverse needs, whether it’s for compact laptop screens, medium-sized computer monitors, or large-screen televisions for home theaters.