What functions should a modern TV have? Choosing the ideal TV: what criteria should you use to avoid disappointment? Basic rules for choosing a TV correctly

TV Buying Guide | Introduction

Smart TV. LED. OLED. 4K. HDR. The world of televisions is improving every day, but at the same time it is becoming more confusing. Today there are simply a huge number of high definition (HD) and 4K/Ultra HD models on the market. Some TVs are quite affordable for almost any buyer, while others can cost as much as a new car.

The deciding factors for most buyers are screen size and price. The widest range of models with screen diagonals from 30 (76 cm) to 110 inches (280 cm) is represented by LCD TVs with LED backlighting (LCD LED TVs). Prices typically start at $250 for 32-inch (81 cm) models (which are great for bedrooms). However for large rooms the most acceptable option are models with a 50 (127 cm) or 55 inch (140 cm) screen with a price of up to $600.

Manufacturers continue to move toward Ultra HD, or 4K, which has four times as many pixels as HDTV. Prices for such models range from approximately $750 for 50-inch panels to $1,800 for 70-inch (178 cm) panels. A more vibrant picture is offered by models with an OLED matrix (a matrix of LEDs based on organic polymers), most of which have a native 4K resolution. However, such TVs are much more expensive.

TV Buying Guide | Quick Tips

For those in a hurry, we have prepared a list of key points that you should pay attention to before buying a TV. Below we will look at each piece of advice in more detail:

• Don't buy a TV with a resolution less than 1080p (i.e. avoid 720p models).
• Don't buy a TV with a screen refresh rate of less than 120Hz.
• If you want the TV you bought to be relevant for at least another five years, it is better to consider 4K models.
• OLED TVs provide a better picture than LED/LCD, but are very expensive.
• The wider the color range, the better, but don't worry too much about this.
• Don't pay attention to the contrast ratio: manufacturers embellish the figures. Trust only your eyes.
• Look for a model with at least four HDMI inputs. When purchasing a 4K TV, check for HDCP compatibility.
• TVs with curved screens are just a fashion trend. They do not improve image quality or perception.
• Today, most TVs are “smart TVs”. The advantages of this function should not be overestimated.
• Plan to buy an audio system. Speakers in TVs today sound worse as they become flatter.
• Avoid extended warranties. A manufacturer that is confident in its product usually offers a good warranty.

TV Buying Guide | Screen size: looking for the “golden mean”

Whether you're looking for a basic or advanced TV model, the main factor you'll likely consider is screen size. First you need to decide how many people in your family will watch TV, and where you are going to put it. Then select the largest screen diagonal that will suit the selected room and set budget. Today, the most acceptable option for the living room, both in terms of price and convenience, is considered to be a TV with a diagonal of 55-65 inches (140 cm).

Also, when choosing a diagonal, you need to consider how close you will be to the screen. If individual pixels of the screen are visible, you are too close. Eat good rule: You should sit at a distance from the TV that is three times the height of its screen for HD and one and a half times the height for 4K. In other words, you can sit twice as close to a 4K UHD TV as to an HD TV.

If you have the opportunity, go to the store (perhaps with your family) and look at the TVs. If you want a big screen but will have to sit very close to it, you might be better off investing in a 4K model, even though content for them is still rare.

Conclusion: Choose the screen size and resolution according to the distance at which you will be from the TV.

TV Buying Guide | Screen resolution: 4K or HD?

Resolution means the clarity of the image on a TV; as a rule, the standards indicate the number of horizontal lines of pixels. Inexpensive HDTVs only support 720p, meaning they can scan 720 lines in one pass. Most modern HDTVs support 1080p HD, also called Full HD, which has 1080 lines. We recommend avoiding 720p resolution even on the smallest screen models.

TV manufacturers are rapidly moving from HDTV to Ultra HD (also known as 4K). 4K TVs have four times more pixels than modern panels HDTV. The main advantage of 4K TVs is the high detail of small objects on the screen, including text. Overall, the picture looks richer and more realistic than on HDTV, although sometimes the difference can be quite small.

Ultra HD video looks great, but such content is still scarce. There are currently no broadcasts or cable channels in 4K, there are only a few streaming service options (the best known are Netflix's apps, Amazon's movie rentals, and dedicated services like UltraFlix; Dish Network and DirecTV offer 4K content downloads). Although existing Ultra HD TVs can upscale HD video, the result is not as clear as original 4K video.

Nowadays, 4K TVs (2160 horizontal lines or 3840 x 2160 pixels) give a better picture if you want to sit closer to the TV. You can move twice as close to a UHD screen as a similarly sized HDTV before you notice the pixel grid. However, there are very few movies and TV shows in 4K these days, so you'll have to mostly make do with upscaled HD content until 4K becomes more widespread.

Ultra HD TVs are gradually replacing regular HD TVs. For example, Vizio's 2015 TV lineup only includes one HDTV. Prices are also creeping down: a 65-inch Vizio P Series UHD TV costs just $1,800.

Conclusion: Full HD 1080p is still the most common format among TVs today, but 4K models have more potential in the future.

TV Buying Guide | Screen refresh rate: the higher the better

Refresh rate describes the number of times the screen is updated per second and is expressed in Hertz (Hz). The standard refresh rate is 60 times per second or 60 Hz. However, scenes with fast-moving objects at 60Hz can appear blurry or jerky, especially on LCD TVs. To make image transitions look smoother, manufacturers double the refresh rate to 120 Hz (and sometimes up to 240 Hz).

Since there isn't much original video content at this frame rate, TVs implement the increased refresh rate in different ways. You can simply insert black images between the original frames, tricking the viewer's eye into seeing a less blurry and more stable image. Another method is to generate and insert new images showing the motion state between two adjacent frames to display more realistic motion. However, depending on how the video is processed, the image may appear flat or as if it is poorly lit, like in old TV shows.

A word of caution: Beware of the term "effective refresh rate" - this means that the actual frame rate is half the advertised speed (for example, at "120Hz effective refresh rate" the actual refresh rate is 60Hz).

Conclusion: Do not buy a TV with a refresh rate lower than 120 Hz.

TV Buying Guide | Color range: the wider the better

Color gamut describes the range of colors that a TV screen can display. Since the days of the CRT, the color standard in television has been a reduced range of visible colors known as NTSC or Rec. 709, although modern televisions have been capable of producing a wider range of colors for several years now. Manufacturers often specify the color gamut as a percentage of NTSC in their product specifications. The best models reproduce the color gamut more than 100 percent - this image is typical for digital cinemas and produces richer and more realistic shades of blue, red and green.

TVs with HDR technology offer more realistic colors, but it will be several years before there is enough content using the expanded color gamut.

Conclusion: The wider the color gamut, the better, but don't focus too much on it until HDR becomes a reality.

TV Buying Guide | Contrast Ratio: Unreliable

Contrast ratio describes the range of brightness levels that a TV screen can display. The higher the contrast, the better the shadows and shades are drawn, and, consequently, the detail improves. However, the ways in which manufacturers measure this indicator vary greatly. This characteristic has become so dubious that it is better to look for another store if the seller strongly emphasizes it.

In all our TV tests and reviews, we use the same contrast ratio measurement method, so we can compare with confidence. different models together. However The best way evaluate the contrast - turn on the movie, stop playback on some dark scene and look at the clarity of the details in the shadows. Experiment with brightness, sharpness, and other image settings before making a decision.

Conclusion: Contrast ratios can be ignored because they cannot be compared between TVs from different manufacturers.

TV Buying Guide | HDMI and other connectors: the more the better

At first glance, this may not seem like a very important factor, but pay attention to the number of HDMI inputs on the TV. If the manufacturer saved money during production, the number of connectors may not be enough for comfortable use: the audio system, Blu-Ray player and game console already occupy three ports.

If you decide to buy an Ultra HD/4K TV, make sure that the connectors include HDMI 2.0 for compatibility with future Ultra HD/4K signal sources. Many models on the market today only have a single port that supports a 4K copy protection scheme known as HDCP 2.2 (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection).

Bottom line: Look for TVs with at least four 4 HDMI ports. When choosing a 4K TV, ask about HDCP compatibility.

TV Buying Guide | Types of TVs and abbreviations LCD, LED-LCD, OLED

Apart from projectors, there are two main types of TVs on the market now: LCD (liquid crystal) and OLED (organic light-emitting diodes). If your budget for buying a TV is small, then most likely you will buy an LCD TV.

LCD TVs with LED backlight (LED LCD)

The lion's share of the TV market belongs to LCD models with LED backlighting. HD and Ultra HD models use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to backlight the LCD screen and can be very thin. Many TVs can dynamically light up and darken specific areas of the screen to create a clearer distinction between light and dark scenes. This feature is known as local or active dimming technology. Prices for LED LCD TVs start at $200 for a 32-inch (81 cm) screen and can go up to $8,000 for top-end 90-inch (229 cm) models.

Most LCD TVs use LED backlighting around the edges of the screen. The best of these models support active dimming, but this requires very precise control of the light along the edge.

In TVs with matrix backlighting (Full-array LED), light-emitting diodes are located directly behind the screen and form a grid of “zones” that can be individually illuminated and dimmed. This arrangement of LEDs allows for more accurate illumination and a detailed image in terms of contrast. At first, matrix backlighting began to appear in expensive TV models, but with the spread of UHD panels, this type of backlighting began to be introduced into more affordable products.

Advantages:

• Wide variety of prices, sizes and features
• Ultra HD 4K models available
• Bright screens that are clearly visible even in sunlight
• Image quality is gradually improving thanks to the introduction of matrix backlighting, HDR and a wide color gamut

Flaws:

• Has disadvantages when showing fast scenes, such as sports
• Loss of detail in shadow areas because pixels cannot be completely black (even with matrix backlighting)
• Image shading when viewed from the side (at off-axis angles)

OLED TVs

The pictures on OLED TVs are better than those on matrix-backlit LCD TVs with hundreds of lighting zones. Instead of backlighting, OLED technology uses a layer of organic light-emitting diodes controlled at the pixel level, thus achieving absolute blacks and excellent levels of contrast (a favorite demonstration of OLED technology is showing fireworks against the night sky).

Today, the only company that is actively introducing OLED technology is LG. All of LG's new TVs have Ultra HD 4K resolution, but there are still a few cheaper HD models left. Prices range from $2,500 for a 55-inch (140 cm) HDTV to $25,000 for a 77-inch (195 cm) UHDTV.

Advantages:

• Best picture on any TV, bar none
• Vivid colors, deep blacks, increased contrast and shadow detail compared to LCD
• Maintains image quality when viewed from an oblique angle

Flaws

• Sky-high prices (e.g. $9,000 for a 65-inch screen)
• It is unknown how the behavior of screens will change over time, that is, whether “ghost” images (burn-in) will appear due to prolonged display of static scenes

Curved screens: no use

Curved screens are another innovation designed to attract the attention of buyers. They are mainly used in OLED and 4K TVs. According to manufacturers, they should provide more immersion when watching TV.

However, compared to regular panels, curved screens have no technical advantages, but there are obvious shortcomings. On the one hand, a slightly curved surface distorts the image and reduces the available viewing angles, thereby limiting the comfortable viewing area to a few people sitting directly in front of the screen. LED-backlit models have a harder time maintaining uniform brightness across the entire screen (most TVs are LED-backlit; the rest of the segment is made up of super-expensive OLED TVs). Additionally, some reviewers, such as those from Consumer Reports, have reported eye strain caused by the curvature of the screen. On the other hand, buyers of early curved TVs say they didn't notice a difference and didn't experience any distortion.

Curved models cost more, with Samsung's 65-inch curved 4K LCD TV costing around $2,800, while a comparable flat-screen model costs $2,600. LG is also a proponent of curved screens, although other companies have avoided them for now.

Conclusion: Curved TVs are simply a fad that adds value to the product without any visible improvement in picture quality.

TV Buying Guide | Smart TV: almost everywhere

Today, more and more TVs are equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi module to work with Internet services such as Netflix to watch streaming video or to run various applications, for example, to watch programs of interest, download movies on demand, play games or even chat on Facebook. Interfaces, as a rule, are regularly improved. Vizio, LG, and now Samsung use a convenient icon bar at the bottom of the screen. Roku offers an intuitive interface on budget TVs from Hisense, Insignia (a brand from Best Buy), and TCL. Google provides the Android TV platform to companies like Sony. Although most smart TVs support major streaming services, including Pandora, Hulu and Netflix (for Russia these are IVI, MegoGo and Google), it is still better to make sure that the chosen model has all this before buying.

Previously, you could buy a less expensive "basic" TV and make it smart by connecting streaming devices like the $50 Roku Streaming Stick. But today it is quite difficult to find a TV without Smart TV support, even if you are looking for an inexpensive model.

Conclusion: Variations Smart TVs are becoming a standard feature on modern TVs, so you don't have to think too much about it during the selection process.

TV Buying Guide | Buy a soundbar

All modern TVs, even the most expensive models, have one common drawback - poor sound. This is due to the thin design of flat panels; there simply isn't enough room for large speakers to deliver full, rich sound. To solve the problem, there are three options: use headphones (if you only watch TV alone), buy a surround sound speaker system (which can be difficult to set up and take up a lot of space), or buy a sound bar.

Soundbars are growing in popularity because for $300 or less, you can dramatically improve your sound quality with installation in minutes. The new models are quite thin and easily fit under the bottom edge of the TV (on its stand), without blocking bottom part Images. In addition, many models can be hung on the wall if the TV is mounted on a bracket. Some companies also sell sound bars or stands that fit under your TV.

Conclusion: Soundbars improve the movie and sports viewing experience.

TV Buying Guide | Extended Warranty: Better Save Money

One of the main sources of income for large electronics retailers is extended warranties. Why? Because it is rarely needed, especially in the case of LCD TVs. Most HDTV components are surprisingly durable. And even if you receive a defective model, the defect will most likely manifest itself in the first fourteen days, and during this period you have the right to return the product without an extended warranty. Additionally, most manufacturers offer their own one-year warranty.

Conclusion: It's not worth spending money on an extended warranty. Most often, the warranty offered by the manufacturers is sufficient.

This process must begin at home. Yes, yes, don't be surprised. After all, it will work in your home, not in a store. Therefore, just determine where you are going to put it, whether there is a power outlet nearby (you shouldn’t rely on a temporary-perpetual extension cord), whether the antenna cable is long enough (or there is enough space to unfurl the mustache, for example, in the country). If all this is ok, you can proceed directly to selecting a model.

It would be a shame not to refer to the results of our tests, but not all models can get into it, and the price may not suit you. Therefore, I leave the choice of brand to your discretion. In passing, I would like to note that it is worth paying attention to well-known brands rather than little-known ones. The main, and often the only reason, is the low reliability of the latter. And we all expect more than one year of work from TV.

I would still like to dwell in more detail on the process of selection and checking in the store. The task ahead of you is not at all as difficult as it seems at first glance. Let's try to reduce this process to a few simple techniques that do not require special skills.

Choose a TV for the sharpest picture, correct color balance and natural color reproduction. It is best to evaluate an image by live broadcast. Don't judge him by films, especially old color ones. Don’t forget about the sound, but for 14-inch models you shouldn’t pay special attention to it (the capabilities of a small box are too small), and for large diagonals, having a good amplifier and speakers at home will help save money if you don’t like the sound in some way, but are satisfied with everything else .

Don't expect a full selection if you have nothing to compare with (in the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king). In comparison, selecting the best model is much easier.

For comparison, stable reception of the same program by all candidate TVs is required. If you are persistent, ask the seller to even the odds, i.e. adjust the image parameters until the image quality matches the maximum for all TVs (in this case, it is advisable to make the contrast maximum or close to it). This will make it possible to evaluate the potential margin of adjustments.

If you decide on a TV with teletext, ask to turn it on on the same program and for all models you are interested in. The comparison clearly shows who is more stable in reception.

What to pay attention to

Definition- small white and light elements of the image, for example, stripes on the announcer’s jacket, the edge of the collar of his shirt, the whites of the eyes should not be blurry or indistinct. In this case, the contrast should not be maximum, on the scale - approximately 3/4. The border of the colored parts of the image (usually on the right) should not be blurred, nor should there be any torn, fringed edges. Examples: a colored car, bright clothes, especially red and blue.

Color balance- white, gray and black parts of the image should be as such and nothing more. It’s better to remove the saturation completely by making the picture black and white, but you can also check the balance by looking at the on-air flicker in the absence of a signal and reduced contrast. In both cases, there should be no colored spots or overall color cast on the screen. Black and white old films are not suitable, they are often given a deliberate color tint. I have repeatedly tested a simple way to assess static balance - in the absence of a signal, when the broadcast is flickering on the screen, you need to step away from the TV to the side and look along the screen, while any color shade is immediately noticeable by the color that the glass acquires. This method may seem akin to a shaman’s, but believe me, it allows you to notice even a slight shift in the balance. There is only one “but” - it is not suitable for picture tubes with a special light-absorbing coating. But for any others it is quite reliable.

Naturalness- assessed by the shade of the face, it must be natural, there is no other way to say it, but still - the color “blood and milk”; the blush should not spread over the entire face, there should not be excessive redness or blueness (I recommend reducing the saturation; in stores, as a rule, it is too high, and if there is manual adjustment balance, leave it in the middle position). It is difficult to determine from one TV whether there is an additional tint or not, but in comparison it is always visible. The love for SECAM is best assessed by the test chart. There should be no dancing flashes or taffy marks on the adjacent borders of colored rectangles (Fig. 1), the borders of the colors should be clean and without small flickering, the color of each of them should be uniform and without additional coloring. In a live picture good help will render a football green field with a close-up of the red or blue uniforms of the players, bright colors car with driver's colored clothes. On large color fields there should be no moire - a fine- or coarse-mesh pale grid superimposed on the image (usually slowly moving upward), or moire can be barely noticeable (Fig. 2).

How to check the selected TV

Sufficient sensitivity- the higher it is, the greater the distance from the television center the TV can receive programs. It is impossible to estimate accurately without instruments, but roughly it can be done as follows. After tuning to a reliably received channel, you need to pull out the antenna plug from the socket, but not completely, but only touching the edges of the socket with it. If the color in the image is preserved (while it will have noticeable noise), the sensitivity is excellent. It's worse if the color disappears and the sound becomes noisy. It’s bad if the image and sound disappear completely, it’s better to abandon this copy.

Convergence of rays- on the light parts of the image there should be no additional colored edging and displacement of lines and borders (Fig. 3). With some skill, the quality of mixing can be determined even by the ethereal flicker - the dancing dots should be clear and white. But it’s better to see slowly moving upward white titles on a black background. If the letters have a colored border, the reduction is not good, and worse if it is in the center. TV channel logos (usually in the corners of the image) also help to evaluate the mixing. At the edges of the kinescope, a slight misalignment is acceptable, but no further than a couple of centimeters from the edge.

Image Linearity- the ability to reproduce a picture without distorting the proportions - squares and circles, for example, should be correct form and the same size over the entire image area. It is convenient to evaluate using a test table, but even better - using a smoothly moving image: credits at the end of the film, a running line at the bottom, which should not look like they were passed through a crooked glass.

Sound- what is really worth checking is the maximum power at which distortion or cabinet resonance occurs. If you evaluate the scale on the screen, distortion should appear no earlier than 3/4 of its length, but it’s still better by ear. TVs with no distortion maximum power(again according to the scale on the screen) are very rare. Don't expect great sound from a 14-inch, even with two speakers. For large TVs, it is much better if there is an additional speaker for bass reproduction - a subwoofer, but if it is possible to reproduce sound through an external amplifier and acoustics (especially as part of a home theater), the requirements for the quality of your own sound can be significantly relaxed.

And a couple more wishes. First, try not to give in to the desire to save money at the expense of quality if you suddenly find a cheaper model. Secondly, don’t try by hook or by crook to buy a TV the first time if you have a choice. Having visited several stores and following the advice from this article, you will be able to see the difference, if not from the first, then certainly from the second store.

Manufacturers set the pace of development of digital devices, and the popularity of high-tech TVs is also growing because the innovative gadgets released have different connectors. Each new model is supplemented with functionality and technical characteristics are improved. When purchasing a new device, the question arises of how to choose the best TV without overpaying.

How to choose a good TV

How to choose a TV if the choice is so wide, and advertising imposes fashion trends. The best TVs combine all the necessary parameters; the cost can only be influenced by the brand.

When choosing a TV you need to pay attention to:

1. TV panel housing. There should be no scratches, chips or other defects. If the product is damaged and this does not affect its operation, then the store administration can afford to sell such a product at a reduced price, having previously warned the buyer and specified the nuances in the warranty card.
2. Protective film. The exception is TVs from display cases, but the client should be aware of this.
3. Full availability of TV components (remote control, cords, etc.). Availability must be checked with the instructions for the device.
4. The quality of the TV panel.
5. Packaging. The box is without traces of moisture, damage or impacts (broken corners will tell you this).
6. Connectors. To thoroughly inspect for damage and scratches, use a portable flashlight.
7. Sound quality. You need to pay attention to the clarity of playback and volume.
8. Test Wi-Fi if available.

According to current legislation, the buyer can return the product within 2 weeks from the date of purchase. But there are many nuances that must be observed for the return process to take place. Damaged packaging or the presence of visual defects may serve as grounds for refusal and further proceedings in the courts.

Set a budget

You can find models ranging from 10 thousand to more than a million rubles. This parameter is influenced by functional and technical characteristics, brand, manufacturing materials and much more. In order not to overpay, you need to decide on your requirements and personal needs before purchasing.

It is not advisable to focus only on price. It is necessary to determine the available limit of financial capabilities and correlate the TV model with the functionality in this price category. Good technique It costs according to its parameters.

Determine the dimensions

To know what diagonal to buy a TV, you need to focus on the location. The distance from the device to the recreation area is the main criterion. The following recommendations will help you determine this parameter:

• A TV with a display diagonal of up to 32 inches is suitable for the kitchen, dining room, and guest room.
• A device up to 42 inches will fit well into a small bedroom or children's room, recreation room.
• A TV with a large diagonal, from 46 inches and above, is suitable for the living room.

A TV for your home should be the optimal size. If the room is up to 20 sq.m., then there is no point in choosing a device with a diagonal larger than 120 cm, it will damage vision and reduce space.

Flat screen or curved

Plus the curved screen in " full immersion"and in increasing the depth (the 3D effect is enhanced), but viewing it from the side will be inconvenient due to the limited viewing angle. The TV will look good in an interior with a lot of space, it is difficult to find a place for it in small apartment. For a curved screen, it is recommended to place it on a shelf or cabinet; it will not always be appropriate on a wall bracket.

The flat screen is universal and suitable for any interior. The image quality does not depend in any way on the curvature of the screen.

Smart TV or regular

Smart TV (smart TV) has built-in Wi-Fi and the ability to connect to the Internet via an Internet port. If you have high-quality Internet, then the function allows you not to use wires, antennas and refuse cable television operators. Many TV brands have already included this functionality in their line of devices.

Smart TV gives access to:

• online cinema services and YouTube;
• social networks and various browsers;
• conducting conferences on Skype;
• use of computer games.

A regular device is suitable for consumers choosing a model to view standard programs. Modern TV is necessary for keeping up with the times.

Technical specifications

Technical parameters must always be taken into account; in practice they are of key importance. Basic parameters for choosing a TV:

1. Brightness. Characteristic depending on screen diagonal. 200 CD/M2 is suitable for 20-inch screens, from 500 CD/M2 - for TVs with a diagonal of more than 40 inches.
2. Diagonal. The diagonal size is recorded in the device passport (measured in inches). Present in the name, in the form of a number (28, 32, etc.).
3. Contrast is the predominance of brightness of one area of ​​the image over another. High contrast provides clearer images and makes viewing more enjoyable.

Optimal resolution

TV screen resolution is a value that determines the number of pixels per unit area (image size in pixels). The quality of the picture on the screen depends on the resolution. The number of pixels both horizontally and vertically matters.

• 1280x720 – HD Ready. Satisfactory quality, suitable for watching TV programs on a small TV, is suitable for HD resolution of the broadcast program.
• 1920x1080 – Full HD (HDTV). Good quality standard, variety of content.
• 3840x2160 – Ultra HD (UHD). Same as 4K, different resolution. This format is more suitable for consumers.
• 4096x2160 – DCI 4K. A format that allows you to watch TV in ultra-clear quality, even on a big screen. But this format has a disadvantage - there is not enough content for such a resolution.

With similar resolutions, you can select plasma screens from any company and price category. Manufacturers are constantly expanding their range.

Frequency

The integrity of the image depends on the frame refresh rate. 50 Hz is a constant component that is perceived by human eyes without flicker. In dynamic scenes, for a less sharp image, it is worth using frame duplication technology. So, to reduce flicker when showing 50 different frames per second, each of them is shown 2 times, which gives a screen refresh of 100Hz (if the frame is repeated 4 times, then the refresh is 200Hz). This parameter will allow you to choose the right TV for comfortable and regular viewing.

Matrix type

The type of matrix depends on the characteristics that the TV must have and the budget of the person who is going to purchase the device. WITH minimum requirements In terms of quality and inexpensive option - a TV with a “tn” matrix. This TV model is well suited for a summer house or office; you can use it as a monitor for games.

“Va” is better in quality, at a price higher than “tn” technologies. TVs with a “va” matrix are suitable for viewing by a small family. For a home cinema, the type of matrix “ips” technology is suitable. It can be used to show presentations in which it is important good quality Pictures.

Matrix backlight technology in modern TVs:

1. LED (LCD LED) – panels with a liquid crystal matrix and LED backlighting. The most popular and inexpensive.
2. OLED TVs that do not require separate backlighting. They are distinguished by high brightness of screens.
3. QLED is the display with the largest color gamut.

There is a big difference between an LCD TV and a QLED TV not only in image quality, but also in the cost of the panel.

Color gamut

Consumers confuse color gamut (which measures what colors a screen can display) with the number of colors a TV can display. The color gamut of any display (even the most modern) is inferior to the part of the spectrum that the human eye sees. Indicators of 90-100% s R G B are good color gamut values. If the coverage is 90%, the image is faded; if it is more than 100%, the image will be oversaturated. Therefore, it is better to choose the golden mean - from 90 to 100%.

Availability of various ports and connectors

If you have the necessary connectors and ports on your TV, you can dispense with other electronics. Home theaters, game consoles and consoles can be combined with a functional TV.

A good TV allows you to connect:

• camera;
• video camera;
• computer, laptop, game console or home theater;
• satellite dish;
• headphones and other devices.

This is only possible if the TV has the appropriate ports. Such as: Scart, S – video and “tulips”, component port, dvi and main HDMI 2.0 and USB (at least 2) connectors.

Sound

Not all thin TVs can offer good sound quality, so you will have to buy additional speakers. You can also take a not too flat TV with a built-in audio system. Here you need to proceed from personal preferences and capabilities. Buying a TV for large space It’s not worth saving on sound, but this is a higher price category of goods.

Parameters you don't need to pay attention to

Tough marketing and experienced salespeople retail chains They try to emphasize the maximum advantages of the goods that they need to sell first. They try to convince the buyer to purchase the desired model, passing off useless functions and empty characteristics as advantages. The choice of TV should not be influenced by:

• Thickness. When buying an ultra-thin display, you need to take into account that this may impair functionality. The already familiar width of 10-15 cm is optimal and does not affect the quality of work.
• Case color. This is an exclusively interior parameter and has nothing to do with the functionality of the TV.
• Design. Appearance the housing does not affect the operation and availability of functions.
• Brand. Expensive brands often unjustifiably inflate the cost of devices; there are optimal options on the market with the same functionality, but at a more reasonable price.

Rating of the best models

The best TV manufacturer tries not to skimp on quality and provides profitable warranty service, strives to adapt equipment and its components to modern technologies - this is necessary to maintain the status of the brand.
Rating of TVs (according to consumers) that are among the best:

1. LG: LG 55EG9A7V and LG 49UJ750V.
2. Samsung: Samsung UE55MU8000U and Samsung UE49M6500AU.
3. Sony: Sony KD-49XE7096 and Sony KDL-49WE755.
4. Philips: Philips 43PUS6401 and Philips 43PFT5301.
5. Panasonic: Panasonic TX-50EXR700.

The most budget-friendly TV options are from the TV brands Supra (Supra STV-LC40T560FL) and Sharp (Sharp LC-40CFF5222E).

To buy a good device, you need to be guided by all the parameters important to consumers and be able to combine quality with price. Comparison of TVs different brands will allow you to choose the most optimal option.

In order not to make a mistake and choose a truly high-quality TV, you need to follow certain criteria. Now we will analyze how to choose the right TV for your home without spending too much money.

The suggested tips for choosing a TV have been compiled by experts. Carefully study the technical specifications of the device. Consider your own needs. For example, do you plan to connect your TV to the Internet? After weighing all the arguments, make your final decision.

Basic rules for choosing a TV correctly

First, you need to decide how much money you are willing to spend to purchase the best TV. For example, if you want to save money, then you can take a Full HD model from the middle one price segment any manufacturer. If you want a flagship, then it is better to choose a device from the Sony, LG, Samsung lineup.

Secondly, consider technical features purchased TV. Now we’ll take a closer look at how to choose a TV for your home. The most important criterion is the screen. That's why we'll start with it.

Screen and backlight type

The key parameter when choosing a TV is the screen and its backlight. First, let's analyze all display types. The oldest and cheapest option is kinescope models. Everyone probably had such devices in their home. Today, they continue to be actively used by grandparents, for whom image quality is not of fundamental importance.

The main advantages of a kinescope screen include a long service life and low price. These TVs have limited functionality and are very bulky.

Liquid crystal screen (LCD TVs) – despite the relatively low cost, provide high-quality images. They also differ from other types of screens in their good color reproduction. Speaking of disadvantages, LCD displays fade over time. Therefore, they should be placed in such a way that the device is not exposed to direct sunlight. Otherwise, spots will appear on the screen.

LED TVs are modern devices that wide range presented in electronics supermarkets. They differ from liquid crystal models by the presence of LED backlighting of the matrix. Therefore, LED panels are slightly thinner than LCD TVs. They are capable of transmitting high-quality images and consume a minimum of electricity.

A plasma TV is equipped with a screen made of sealed cells that are filled with gas. This unique design ensures high-quality images. The screen does not fade over time. Plasma consumes more energy when compared to an LED TV. All plasma panels have one characteristic feature– large screen diagonal. Minimum size is 32 inches.

Laser screens are a relatively new development. They have a long service life and consume minimal electricity. Laser displays will provide high-quality images. Perhaps the only drawback is the too high price.

Projection screens have become the subject of heated debate. Especially when it comes to the price-quality ratio. They provide high-quality color reproduction and excellent image detail. Individual elements Screens fade over time, so the picture quality gradually decreases. Projection models are characterized by a limited viewing angle.

When choosing a TV, pay attention to its physical parameters. Modern devices can be flat or concave. The former are much more common and cost much less. Curved screens, in turn, are found mainly on flagships.

Cost and image quality will also vary depending on the backlight. Let's look at the most current options to choose the best one. Edge LED backlighting is found on many modern TVs with a maximum viewing angle. The LEDs are located along the contour of the display, they are like a luminous frame. This allows you to make the device thin and as economical as possible.

Improved Direct technology LED involves the placement of LEDs over the entire surface. Each diode can be adjusted if necessary. This allows you to darken a specific color to make the image appear brighter. Techniques with such illumination provide a colorful image.

QLED technology does not provide a separate backlight unit. Special quantum dots, performing the functions of illumination. Devices of this type convey colors that will be acceptable to the human eye. The image is bright and natural. Such a TV will cost much more.

OLED technology is another modern development. Instead of a backlight unit, diodes are used that are coated with phosphor. It glows when an electrical impulse passes through. Models of this type have the greatest viewing angle. Your eyes won't get tired from watching it.

Diagonal and screen resolution

An equally important criterion for choosing a TV is the screen diagonal. During the era of popularity of CRT TVs, many users believed that the distance from the viewing point to the screen should be equivalent to the diagonal multiplied by 5.

Calculation of the optimal distance is carried out according to a similar principle. The coefficient has changed - instead of 5, you need to multiply by 3 (if we are talking about an LED TV).

Let's consider clear example. If you are planning to purchase a TV with a 32-inch screen diagonal, then the distance to the viewing point should be at least 2.5 meters.

Now let's talk about another very important parameter - screen resolution. For the most part everything modern models sold with the Full HD label.

The bottom line is that such a device will display an image with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. Terrestrial television broadcasting is carried out with a resolution of 720x576 pixels. Therefore, if you do not plan to connect cable, digital or satellite television, there is no point in chasing resolution.

Don’t forget that you can watch movies and TV series on your TV that are pre-loaded onto a flash drive. Therefore, it is still better to buy a TV with Full HD support. Satellite and cable operators are able to offer certain channels with HD pictures.

Frequency and response time

Another parameter that should never be ignored. Response time is a parameter that characterizes the change in the position of the crystal in each pixel. The response time will determine how quickly the image changes during a dynamic scene. If this parameter is low, the picture will be blurry, which will create some discomfort while viewing.

The higher this number is, the better. Which TV is better to choose? Really high-quality models in the mid-price segment have frequencies starting from 400 Hz. Highest value can reach 1000 Hz.

Brightness and Contrast

A good TV is a device with high picture quality. The image should be rich and realistic. It is very important that the TV does not operate at its maximum capacity.

Before purchasing a device, ask your consultant to show you the brightness and contrast scale in the settings. If the values ​​are set to average then everything is fine. If the contrast or brightness is set too high, then they are trying to deceive you.

Sound

To choose quality TV, you need to pay attention not only to the image, but also to the sound. If the speakers are able to reproduce clear sound, then the viewing experience will be as comfortable as possible.

The best parameters are available for models with a Dolby Digital decoder. It's even better if the device supports NICAM. It is desirable that the total power of the stereo speakers of the TV is at least 20 W. The optimal solution will be the purchase of a TV with multi-channel acoustics.

With or without smart

Should a modern home TV have Smart TV support? It all depends entirely on your preferences. Think and try to answer how necessary an Internet connection is for you. Keep in mind that you will have to overpay for Smart TV support.

How to choose a good TV with Smart TV? You need to choose a device from a company that specializes in the production of such models. For example, you can buy a model from Samsung, Sony or LG. Some companies install OS with a low level of productivity. Therefore, TV begins to slow down.

Additional functions

Modern TVs are equipped with a wide range of additional functionality. Whether they are needed or not is up to you to decide. Now we will briefly list the most popular additional options:

If you need certain functions from the list above, then inquire about their availability when choosing an LCD TV.

Manufacturer

The manufacturer's reputation must be taken into account when choosing a TV. For example, some companies stand out by equipping their equipment with high-quality speakers, while other organizations promptly release updates for the correct operation of Smart TV. Knowing this information, the user will be able to choose a TV for himself.

Do you have a desire to buy a TV, but the variety of models with an unimaginable number of little-known or completely unknown functions and characteristics does not allow you to make a choice? Are you so distrustful of the appearance of a curved panel that you hesitate to buy it? Can't decide between a plasma TV or an LCD TV? It is for doubting consumers that our article is intended, which will allow you to learn almost everything about televisions.

What not to buy

CRT TVs

Let's start our conversation by defining what you should never buy. We will, of course, talk about televisions with CRTs. They can still be found on store shelves to this day, but one must understand that CRT technologies have already sunk into oblivion forever. Of course, such televisions can still be taken to the dacha, where it is possible to watch exclusively state channels.

But even in this case they cannot be used without digital set-top box, since, for example, there is no longer analogue broadcasting on the territory of Belarus. In addition, CRT TV screens are produced with an aspect ratio of 4:3, despite the fact that even state channels are gradually switching to the 16:9 format. This means that the possibility cannot be ruled out that the picture will be broadcast with distortion.

Plasma TVs

It is also impractical to purchase a plasma TV. Undoubtedly, not so long ago (about 5 years ago) the image quality of plasma TVs had an advantage over what was reproduced on liquid crystal analogues. But after two years, the difference began to level out, and buyers began to abandon plasma units. This was due to their high cost and the identification of some shortcomings. The consequence of this was the refusal of leading manufacturers to produce these products.

Devices with 720p expansion

There is no point in buying a TV that supports maximum rate resolution 720p. True, this does not apply to models whose screen does not exceed 24.” On screens with large diagonals, it is impossible to get pleasure from viewing content with such a resolution. This figure should be no less than 1080p, since this level will be the standard minimum over the next few years.

Curved TVs

Now about TVs with curved panels. The commercials describe the delights of curved screens, which allow you to immerse yourself in the picture and much more. But no one is saying that this is only possible on screens from 80 to 100.” And such devices cost no less good car, that is, not everyone can afford them. The presence of a curved screen at the usual 42-47 inches is a complete inconvenience. Why pay extra for something from which there is no benefit?

What is Smart TV on TV

The presence of high-speed Internet in almost any apartment, transmitted via “optics” or LAN, makes it impractical to purchase a TV that does not have a Smart TV option. With its help, you can access online services, which entails a significant expansion of the TV’s capabilities. The arrival of the Smart TV function on TVs has radically changed the level of human interaction with the TV.

After all, previously the user could only select content that was broadcast on certain channels at a specific time. Now, thanks to Smart TV, everyone has the opportunity to open a large number of applications and choose to view exactly what is of interest at the moment. By paying a little money you can watch a hit that no one has seen before. If your child wants specific cartoons - please.

And at the same time, you don’t need any flash drives or hard drives; it’s enough to have the Internet in your home with Wi-Fi connected. The TV just plugs in and watch whatever you want. In addition, many models with Smart TV can be controlled using a smartphone. It is simply stupid not to use such a service. But even if the TV is not supported Smart function TV, this is easy to fix if you purchase .

What you need to pay attention to when choosing a TV in 2017

Screen diagonal

Many users are convinced that comfortable viewing of TV is possible only when located at a fairly large distance from it. This stereotype developed after the transition from a picture tube to a forty-two-inch LCD panel. The size of the screen is initially shocking, and there is a feeling of some discomfort. This is explained by the need for a slightly different focusing of vision. However, after three days this feeling disappears and the desire to purchase an even larger screen appears.

Dependence of the optimal distance on the diagonal and content quality (1 foot = 0.3048 meters)

In fact, the calculation of the optimal distance from viewers to the TV is influenced not only by the size of the diagonal, but by the resolution and quality of the content. The distance to the TV decreases as the resolution increases. So, broadcasting video with a resolution of 1080p on a 50" screen is perfectly perceived from a distance of 2.2 m, and for 60" - from 2.4 m. This is according to specialists from the THX company, which enjoys authority and respect in the TV and film industry market. This distance is quite accessible even for a hall in panel house standard project.

Matrix type

The type of matrix used is the most important parameter. It has a direct impact on the quality of the broadcast image and the viewing angles. Most often, today's manufacturers use IPS and VA matrices. The latter have subgroups S-PVA, PVA and MVA. They provide good color rendition, optimal time response, as well as viewing angles. In addition, with their help, static contrast coupled with black depth have high level.

High-quality IPS matrices provide a high level of brightness and color rendition, and viewing angles are simply excellent. But the response time is somewhat high. The consequence of this may be the appearance of blur when demonstrating dynamic scenes, as well as insufficient depth of black color. IPS matrices are divided into S-IPS, P-IPS, E-IPS, AH-IPS, H-IPS and AS-IPS. Their differences lie in the cost and quality of the transmitted image.

This makes it possible to use matrices of this type for both budget models and expensive modifications. In the production of Sharp TVs, the UV2A matrix is ​​used. Thanks to this, they differ not only in significant viewing angles, but also in the depth of black color.

Backlight type

This is also an important indicator, since liquid crystals do not tend to emit light on their own. On outdated LCD TVs, CCFL was used for backlighting ( fluorescent lamps), which were located behind the matrix. This created a fairly uniform illumination, but entailed an increase in the size of the housing and an increase in the level of electrical energy consumption.

Modern technologies have made it possible to abandon the use of this technology, thanks to the use of LED backlighting. LEDs, in addition to being efficient and compact, have made it possible to locally change the brightness. This led to an increase in black depth, and hence the contrast ratio. There is a difference between LED edge lighting and carpet lighting.

The edge (EDGE-LED) option involves placing LEDs around the perimeter. Diffusers are used to diffuse the light emitted by them over the entire plane of the screen. However, due to the property of liquid crystals that do not block light, it is not possible to achieve the proper depth of black color.

The design feature of the carpet type is the placement of LEDs behind the matrix itself. The consequence of this is an even distribution of illumination. And the presence of ultra-modern control modules makes it possible to either perform local brightness adjustment or turn off some LEDs. This makes it possible to achieve greater depth of black.

With OLED technology, which is based on the use of organic light-emitting diodes, there is no need for backlighting. Image formation occurs under the influence of electric current by self-emitting LEDs. Distinctive feature OLED matrices are very thin, which, however, does not prevent them from achieving significant levels of brightness, contrast and black depth.

Their negative feature is considered to be their high cost and the difference in the lifespan of the pixels. The lifespan of green and red pixels is from 50 to 70 thousand hours permanent job. And the blue ones are given only 30 thousand hours to exist. The result of this is color distortion that occurs after a certain period of time. However, if you consider that rarely does anyone have a TV that operates for more than eight hours during the day, then its resource will easily last for 10 years.

Technical characteristics that are key

The fundamental characteristics of an image include color gamut, brightness, black depth and contrast. Today's TVs do not suffer from a lack of brightness. Furthermore, often already at the factory during the setting process they are inflated to such an extent that this parameter has to be reduced in order to avoid increased strain on the viewer’s eyes.

Contrast is the difference obtained by subtracting the number of white areas from the same indicator of black areas. In this case, the indicator of the latter is counted as one. For ANSI measurements, a checkerboard is used. The standard contrast ratio for IPS matrices is 1000:1, and for S-PVA it is 3500:1.

Depth of black. Zero screen brightness can be considered completely black. It is very difficult to achieve it, given the current level at which technology is located. Therefore, it is generally accepted that the higher the black depth indicator, the better.

Color gamut is the totality of all shades and colors without exception. The number of shades and halftones that the viewer can see depends on the width of the color gamut. Available software technologies and hardware, allowing you to expand the color gamut. However, most often their use can be considered marketing steps, since it makes no sense to have a wider coverage than the existing standard palette of content.

Another important indicator is color rendering accuracy (dE or delta E). It displays the differences between the input image and the output image. If the TV is well calibrated, then the dE indicator should be within three. In this case, color transfer will occur almost naturally. But we must remember that many models are configured by the manufacturer in such a way that the resulting picture is perfectly juicy and attracts the buyer’s eye. Therefore, judging color rendering based on factory settings will not be correct.

Important characteristics of TVs themselves

Let's return to screen resolution. As previously said, 720p cannot be considered a current resolution. The standard today is considered to be 1920x1080. The refresh rate may be 60 Hz, but if you like to watch dynamic scenes, it is better to choose TVs with a frequency of at least 120 Hz.

Trend recent years is aimed at distributing the 4K or Ultra HD format, where the expansion rate is 3840x2160 pixels. The cost is real quality models, capable of fully supporting this format, is great. In addition, there is still relatively little 4K content. Also, do not forget that Ultra HD is not only a resolution, and the television receiver itself must comply with certain additional requirements. One of which is the presence of an HDMI 2.0 port.

And if there is an inscription on the packaging that the TV supports 4K, but the HDMI port only has version 1.4, then we can conclude that this is a marketing ploy. And in the box there is an ordinary Full HD TV on which a matrix is ​​installed, with more high resolution. But only.

Now let's move directly to the ports. HDMI 2.0 can support the transmission of 4K content with a frequency of 60 Hz. While port 1.4 is able to transmit no more than 30 Hz. With HDMI 2.0 you can transfer data at a speed of 18 mbps, and with 1.4 - no more than 10 mbps. Based on this, we can conclude that HDMI 1.4 is quite sufficient for Full HD, but for 4K HDMI 2.0 is required.

If there are plans to connect external sources, then it is mandatory to have two or even three ports. And it is desirable that these are no less than USB 3.0. After all, having a high-speed data transmission reserve has never hurt anyone.

3D support

And a few more words about 3D support. It is customary to divide the technologies with the help of which a three-dimensional image is formed for the eyes into active and passive. For the first case, you will need shutter glasses, which must be synchronized with the TV. The passive option involves the availability of cheaper polarized glasses. To be honest, there is no significant difference in the quality of the transmitted three-dimensional image.

Conclusion

To consider all possible options for modern TVs, as well as marketing moves manufacturers would have to change the format of this article, increasing it several times. We tried to collect the most important nuances, which you need to pay attention to when choosing a TV model.