Smart TVs are a collection of useful applications and quality software. Thanks to the connection to the Internet, the possibilities of this technique have expanded significantly, which served as the impetus for its growth in popularity. This article will help you understand the technical parameters of smart TVs and choose the best model, taking into account criteria such as price, quality, manufacturer's reliability and diagonal size.
Content
- 1 What are Smart TVs: their types and capabilities
- 2 How to choose a smart TV: basic criteria
- 3 Which TVs support digital television
- 4 Which brand of TV is better to buy: a brief overview of brands
- 5 The best smart TVs on the web
- 5.1 Rating of the best models of small TVs Smart TV 32 inches
- 5.2 Which Smart TV is better: rating of models with a diagonal of 40-43 ″
- 5.3 Rating of budget TVs with Smart TV technology: prices and an overview of available models
- 5.4 Rating of the best models and prices of Smart TVs with the optimal ratio of characteristics
- 5.5 Rating of high-quality TVs Smart TV: prices and review of reliable and expensive models
What are Smart TVs: their types and capabilities
Smart TVs are modern devices, the functionality of which has been expanded through the introduction of an operating system, as well as the use of various Internet applications. The largest manufacturers of such equipment are the following brands:
- Sony;
- Samsung;
- Philips;
- LG.
They produce quality TVs with internet and Wi-Fi. In some models, the AC adapter is connected separately via the USB connector. Many smart TVs have built-in media players. Such models can read almost all modern video formats directly from a USB flash drive.
Note! Smart TVs cannot always play MKV videos. Sometimes there are problems with picture or sound.
Common types of TVs with Smart TV function
Smart TVs are classified according to several parameters. The most important of these is the operating system.It depends on it how convenient the TV will be in operation and how quickly the user will master its settings. In addition, the operating system determines the list of available programs and capabilities.
Many large companies create their own platforms, so the choice of operating systems is wide enough. To make it easier for you to choose, some buyers are choosing Android TVs. This operating system is considered universal. Plus, smartphone users are familiar with it.
The proprietary development of LG is the webOS operating system, which has many advantages:
- multi-window beautiful interface;
- multitasking;
- convenient remote control;
- flexible and understandable configuration system.
To download applications, use the LG Store, where a huge list of programs is presented, the installation of which will take just a few clicks of a button.
In Samsung TVs, Smart TV runs on the Tizen operating system, which was developed in 2015. The manufacturer has worked hard to create a clear and user-friendly Smart Hub interface. Thanks to this, even those users who first encountered the Tizen operating system quickly adapt to its peculiarities and easily master the management. To download the programs and applications necessary for the TV to work, you need to use the Tizen Store.
Note! Some preinstalled programs on Samsung Smart TVs cannot be deleted.
Android for TVs is used as an operating system not only by big brands such as Philips and Sony, but also by lesser known companies. This program is widely available in the market. The main advantage of the Android operating system is that it is not tied to a specific brand. Android is found in both expensive and budget models.
Android TVs have another significant advantage. This platform allows you to install apps from Google Play. In addition, the Android operating system supports the Chromcast technology, which is used to transfer content to the TV from a mobile device.
How to choose a smart TV: basic criteria
When choosing a TV with a Smart function in a store, you must definitely pay attention to such criteria as:
- Screen size;
- resolution;
- viewing angles;
- frame rate (frequency);
- matrix type;
- the presence of connectors for connecting peripheral devices.
Selecting a TV by parameters should start with such criteria as screen size. The optimal diagonal size is individual for each customer. This takes into account not only personal preferences, but also the size of the room, the arrangement of furniture in it. The budgetary possibilities of the buyer also matter, since the price of smart TVs depends on the size of its screen. The larger the diagonal, the more expensive the device.
The second most important criterion for choosing a TV by parameters is the screen resolution. Pixels are used as the unit. The higher the value, the clearer and more detailed the image will be. It is advisable to give preference to TVs with a resolution of 1080p (Full HD) or 4K.
In high-quality TVs in both planes, the viewing angles should be as close as possible to 180 °. As for the sweep frequency, this indicator must be at least 200-400 Hz. This parameter reflects the rate at which frames are updated on the screen.
The following types of matrices are considered the best for watching movies and TV programs:
- liquid crystal (LCD);
- plasma;
- display with LED backlight (LED).
In addition, different types of connectors must be present on the TV case. These ports are required for connecting removable media and other devices.
Note! The more connectors and the more diverse they are, the more possibilities the TV can offer when connecting additional devices.
How to select a TV using advanced parameters
An important criterion for choosing a TV is the interface. It must be clear so that users do not have problems using the Smart TV function. It is imperative to make sure that the TV has a menu in Russian. The control can also be carried out using voice commands. This function greatly simplifies the process of going to the desired menu item, and also relieves the user of the need to enter long search queries each time. Especially convenient to use is a TV with a remote control with an extended keyboard. With it, management becomes simpler and faster.
The TVs in stores can connect to the Internet in two ways. In the first case, Wi-Fi is used for this. For the system to work, the house must have a configured router with an active Internet connection. In the second case, access to the network is via a cable.
It is advisable to give preference to models with built-in Wi-Fi, since they are more practical and have many advantages:
- there is no need to make additional holes in the walls and lay the cable, which can be fraught with additional costs;
- the possibility of accidental damage to the cable is excluded, which means that the frequency of repairs is reduced;
- the aesthetics of the room is preserved;
- mobility is provided.
Note! If the network signal is weak, downloading large files, such as Full HD movies, will take a long time.
When choosing a TV, software and a list of Smart TV capabilities matter. You definitely need to find out the following points:
- What is the basic suite of apps?
- Is it possible to install additional applications?
- Will functional expansion be paid?
- Is there access to free applications and what is their list?
TV capabilities vary depending on operating system. The browser provides access to resources on the network. By installing an extension that decrypts voice commands, you can create search queries effortlessly.
By using Skype, the consumer gets access to free communication with family and friends. Some TVs support video communication. Such models are equipped with a built-in camera or have the ability to connect an external device via a USB connector. To communicate via Skype in video mode, you need to install a set of appropriate drivers.
Which TVs support digital television
With the advent of digital television, the transmission format has changed and the quality of signal reception has significantly improved. Interference has disappeared on the screens of modern TVs, and some manufacturers even offer effective protection of user data from interception and outside influence. To connect to digital broadcasting, you need to buy and install additional equipment:
- an antenna for receiving digital signals or fiber optic cable (you can use a satellite dish);
- a prefix (tuner) for decrypting and transmitting digital information.
Some TV models have a built-in tuner. In other cases, to connect digital broadcasting, you will have to additionally buy a receiver.
What is a smart TV box
TV tuner (receiver) - a device that receives a digital signal and decodes it, converting it into a specific format. After that, the information is displayed on the screen. Smart set-top boxes are designed to receive radio digital waves and video. The built-in version of the receiver has the form of a microcircuit that is installed inside the TV.
Each set-top box has USB connectors for connecting peripheral devices. The price of the receiver depends on their quantity. USB connectors allow you to connect drives and view information directly from them. These drives include:
- flash drives;
- hard drives;
- smartphones.
Expensive set-top boxes allow you to record live broadcasts directly to drives. Some tuners can be connected to the Internet using a cable. To do this, you need to use a wire called "twisted pair". Wi-Fi TVs connect using a radio signal, so there is no need for a cable. Internet access greatly increases the list of channels that can be viewed.
Important! Do not trust the recommendations of the sellers in the store. It is better to independently study the technical specifications of the TV and make sure that it receives digital signals.
Modern tuners, such as the Xiaomi Mi Box 3 Smart TV set-top boxes, support the Android operating system. They allow you to broadcast video by connecting to a personal computer or mobile device.
Related article:
What is Smart TV on TV: features of intelligent functionality
Advantages and disadvantages of an intelligent function, ways of using it. Review of "smart" TVs from different manufacturers.
How to choose a good Smart TV set-top box for your TV
To choose a good prefix To watch digital television, you first need to decide how functional it should be and make sure that the selected model has the right parameters.
How to choose a Smart TV set-top box for your TV? This requires:
- Make sure the receiver is capable of receiving the correct type of signal.
- Pay attention to how the tuner is connected to a TV or computer.
- Find out what operating systems the set-top box can work with.
It also does not hurt to read customer reviews and explore other features of the receiver in order to choose the right manufacturer and the best model from the range presented.
There are several digital signal formats that are accepted by certain STBs:
- DVB-T2 and DVB-T (terrestrial channels);
- DVB-S2 and DVB-S (satellite TV);
- DVB-C (cable TV).
Tuners for digital TVs are presented on the market in a huge variety. All of them are capable of receiving terrestrial channels, however, different models differ from each other in their design, functionality and price. It is very important not to be mistaken with the type of signal. Most set-top boxes accept programs as MPEG-4, although major manufacturers are working on tuners that support HD. Expensive set-top boxes have such capabilities.
What TVs accept digital TV without a set-top box
To receive digital channels, you do not need to have a set-top box - you can purchase a TV with a built-in receiver. There are many manufacturers who produce models with the required decoder. Such devices are full-fledged devices with Smart TV function that provide reception digital television without set-top box.
List of popular brands producing models with a built-in decoder:
- LG;
- Samsung;
- Apple;
- Philips;
- Toshiba;
- Panasonic.
Important! Only models released after 2015 have a built-in decoder.
Other manufacturers also make TVs with a built-in receiver, but the presence of a decoding circuit in a particular model must be checked. There are several ways to find out which TVs are showing digital channels without a set-top box:
- Use a dedicated site.
- Contact technical support for the manufacturer of the TV.
- View the characteristics on an information service on the network or in an online store that sells TVs.
As a rule, information services and special sites have a search bar. To get the necessary information about the TV, just enter its name and model, and then start the search process.
Why is built-in decoder better than Smart TV set-top box for TV
In the process of choosing a TV, many buyers cannot decide whether to choose a model with a built-in receiver or purchase a set-top box as an addition to a cheaper device. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of TVs with built-in decoding circuit:
- Fast digital signal processing - unlike a cable connection through a set-top box, TVs with a built-in receiver are free of interference. In the process of watching a video sequence, frames do not freeze and do not jump.
- A short channel tuning algorithm - just connect the antenna, go to the TV settings menu and start automatic channel search (scan).
- Convenient control - TV for digital television with built-in decoder is controlled by one remote control. If the set-top box is connected separately, you will have to use an additional one. Thus, the TV volume will be controlled by one remote control, and the channels are switched by another, which is very inconvenient. There are universal options, but the price of a smart TV with such a remote control will increase significantly.
- The built-in receiver does not require a power outlet to function, which means you don't have to use tees. In addition, there will be much less wires.
- The external tuner must be within the range of the remote control. Some TVs are wall or ceiling mounted. For such models to function, you will have to install an additional shelf in order to be able to place the console nearby.
Important! You should not buy a decoding chip to install it in the TV yourself. This requires not only experience and specialist knowledge, but also the appropriate equipment.
Which brand of TV is better to buy: a brief overview of brands
Before choosing a model with suitable parameters, it is worth deciding with the manufacturer. The fact is that TVs from different brands have different advantages and capabilities. It is advisable to give preference to proven brands. However, there are many such companies on the market, so the buyer will still have to decide which TV is better: Samsung or LG, Sony or Philips.
Feature of Philips Smart TVs
Philips TVs are renowned for their special lighting. Ambilight technology is loved by many users, which is why these devices are so popular around the world.
The essential advantage of Philips TVs is their functionality. Even the most budget models are equipped with a Wi-Fi wireless module. Thanks to this, consumers with any financial capabilities can afford to purchase a TV that supports the Smart TV function.
The basic kit includes the following applications:
- YouTube;
- Dailymotion;
- Vimeo;
- Twitter;
- Facebook;
- Picasa;
- widgets for listening to radio on the Internet;
- services to improve the quality of online video viewing.
In addition, owners of TVs with Smart TV can use the catalog with downloadable applications. These add-ons allow you to watch videos in online cinemas or other resources on the network. With the help of widgets downloaded from the catalog, the user can get access to interesting and useful information:
- exchange rates;
- weather forecast;
- news;
- announcements and posters;
- information about traffic situations, etc.
The Simplisher feature lets you connect your TV to a PC or other wireless device. Modern models are equipped with a set of built-in codecs, thanks to which the TV supports many content formats. The browser on Philips TVs has a high operating speed and displays sites well. In addition, the user can connect a keyboard and mouse both wired and wirelessly.
Features of Panasonic Smart TVs
The first operating system used in Panasonic TVs was called Cast. With the move to the Connect platform, the capabilities of this intelligent technology have expanded significantly.
These TVs are elegantly designed, while they are endowed with an impressive range of functions. The devices support standard applications such as Facebook, Twitter, Picasa, etc. They can also be used to watch online TV. Consumers have access to such channels as "Eurosport", "Russia" and "EuroNews".
Note! In their reviews, users note that sometimes the localization function fails in the Viera Connect operating system. For this reason, the list of available regional applications may be limited.
The interface of smart TVs has convenient settings. The home page contains everything you need to use the features of the Smart function. If desired, the TV owner can display the most used widgets on the screen. Moreover, the consumer himself chooses their location and quantity. Models with a built-in camera are equipped with a face recognition system. After identification, the TV loads the settings appropriate for a specific user.
The Viera Connect store has a variety of European and Russian services. The sheer number of online cinemas available for download can completely free the user from watching television. The manufacturer offers a patented application that allows you to transfer multimedia content from a smartphone to a TV or vice versa, as well as the ability to connect to the VKontakte social network.
Benefits of Samsung Smart TVs
Samsung is the undisputed leader in the production of quality TVs. Smart technology is present in all modern 6500 series models and later. Plasma TVs have been implementing this improvement since the 6900 series.
Samsung Smart TVs have a kind of computer desktop, where the user has access to various functions:
- music;
- program guide;
- television channels;
- a browser for viewing information on the Internet;
- viewing photos, etc.
The software store contains over 1000 pieces of useful software for performing various tasks. List of the best applications for Samsung Smart TV:
- Stream interactive is a free resource with a large number of TV series and other content.
- Explore 3D is a catalog with video materials in 3D format.
- Tvigle is a free directory with video content: documentaries, TV series, music videos, and more.
- The TV version of YouTube is practically no different from the original.
- Yota Play is a service that contains new movies in high quality.
- Online cinema ivi.ru with a large catalog of video content - for owners of Samsung Smart TVs the price of a monthly subscription is 300 rubles.
Popular applications also include Skype, Gismeteo, Twitter, Facebook, Google Maps, Sport Express.
Note! Some films are available for an additional fee. In the online cinema ivi.ru, it averages 150 rubles, on the Yota Play service - about 100 rubles.
The best aspects of LG smart TVs Smart TV
Since 2009, the South Korean brand LG has been actively using this technology in the production of household appliances. This company was one of the first to introduce smart TVs on the market. At that time, the possibilities were limited to access to the YouTube website, the Picasa application and the weather forecast service. Modern models have gone much further.
Now the owner of a Smart TV can enjoy all the advantages of this technology, gaining access to the most popular services and applications:
- Facebook and Twitter;
- Twigloo and YouTube;
- information services in the browser (weather, traffic jams, TV program, poster, etc.);
- Picasa;
- 3D World (for viewing 3D videos).
The system itself is very user-friendly and provides users with a high degree of freedom. The developers have taken into account all the customer feedback and have worked hard to improve search, navigation, as well as the ability to switch between different types of content. There is a virtual assistant that provides a simple and straightforward tour of the settings.
Many users love the Today feature, which picks up a list of recommended movies and TV shows, even after they're released. These TVs are multitasking, which allows you to play, download programs or study information on the network while watching channels.
Feature of Sony Smart TVs
Sony makes high-quality TVs, but in terms of smart technology it cannot compete with brands like Samsung and LG. The idea of implementing a Google TV set-top box failed, so in 2011 Sony developed its own system with an excellent browser.
The Video Search function makes it much easier to find TV shows and movies. Users are provided with a huge collection of different types of content. The TrackID function can identify music and give out the name of the song, as well as information about its artist and author. No less interesting application MediaRemote allows you to connect a mobile device to the Smart TV and control the cursor with it.
It is noteworthy that all devices manufactured by Sony are adapted for televisions and perfectly interact with them. However, some services may be chargeable. It is advisable to clarify this point before buying. All standard programs and applications are available, such as Facebook, Twitter, Skype. It will be useful to install the Now.ru widget. It provides access to a high-quality, and most importantly, legal collection of video content.
Note! There may be problems with setting up Smart TV on Sony TVs. The system is too complex, so you may need to hire a specialist.
The best smart TVs on the web
According to reviews, Smart TV is best represented in the following TV models:
- Sony KDL-40W705C is named one of the best TVs with high image quality. This model has no unnecessary features that would increase its cost.
- Consumers who want to limit themselves to only basic options, the Samsung UE22H5610 TV is suitable.
- Most of the rave reviews from avid moviegoers and sports fans have described the benefits of the Samsung UE40H6650 TV.This model not only has a spectacular design, but also has excellent performance and an impressive set of functions.
- Customers who love not only functional, but also stylish technology, the Samsung UE40JU6610U smart TV was awarded.
- Experts advise those who like to visit resources on the Internet to choose balanced devices that work at a sufficiently high speed and display sites well. According to the majority of users on the forums, in this sense, the LG 55LB673V TV has the palm.
- In their reviews, many netizens noted the reliability of the Samsung UE48J6390AU smart TV. This model is of high build quality, so it is able to serve smoothly for a long time.
Rating of the best models of small TVs Smart TV 32 inches
LG 32LJ610V is recognized as the best TV in this category, which has an attractive design and low price. Thanks to the Full HD resolution, the image on the screen is very high quality. The viewing angle is almost 180 °. This advantage comes in handy if the TV will be in the kitchen, as the picture looks clear from anywhere in the room. At 32 inches, LG Smart TV has a screen size of 80 cm.
This model has excellent sound characteristics. The transmission is carried out using a pair of speakers with a total power of 10 watts. This creates the effect of presence in the viewer.
Also, users noted the Smart TV 32 ″ Samsung UE32M5503AU. This model has a stylish design. The Full HD display combined with powerful sound has been appreciated by many users. The speakers operate at 20W. Such an indicator is not so often found in other models. In addition to standard features, this TV is capable of recording video to external media.
Note! This model has a child lock function for the TV.
The 32 ″ LCD model Sony KDL-32WD603 closes the rating of smart TVs. The speaker power reaches 10 watts. In addition, there is a surround sound effect. The manufacturer has provided a lot of useful functions:
- protection from children;
- light sensor;
- sleep timer and others.
This model has a low power consumption, although it is not without drawbacks, including outdated software and insufficient contrast.
Which Smart TV is better: rating of models with a diagonal of 40-43 ″
The high resolution 4K screen in the Samsung Smart TV UE40MU6400U, as well as the HDR technology, which greatly enhances the picture, have made this model the top spot in the ranking of the best devices with a diagonal size of 40 ″. The manufacturer also did not forget about the powerful sound, having installed 10 Watt speakers. The advantages of the model do not end there:
- a large set of useful functions;
- high level of contrast;
- great sound;
- well-optimized operating system.
Unfortunately, the remote control in this model cannot be used as a mouse.
Another example of a quality TV is the Philips 43PUT6162. With such favorable characteristics, this model is quite affordable for most buyers. Benefits of Philips 43PUT6162:
- surround sound;
- high-quality image (the screen supports HDR picture enhancement technology);
- original design;
- can be used as a computer screen;
- supports many video formats.
Note! This model has an impressive weight, which, together with the stand, exceeds 11 kg.
When wondering which series of Sony 43 "TVs is better, you should pay attention to the KDL line. Model 40WE663 ranks third in the ranking.Despite the low power of the speakers (5 W), the TV is capable of reproducing surround sound. The operating system supports the most common video formats. You can connect directly to your home network, which allows you to use the TV as an entertainment center for the whole family.
Rating of budget TVs with Smart TV technology: prices and an overview of available models
In the budget segment, according to users, Akai LES-З2D8ЗM became the best TV. By purchasing this model, the consumer gets a well-oiled Android system for a small fee. The built-in memory is 4 GB. It is possible to record and view video from external media. The main advantages of this model are compact size, light weight and good sound. The cost ranges from 10-12 thousand rubles.
TELEFUNKEN TF-LED40S4ЗT2S is another example of a compact and cheap TV. Like the previous model, it has only one tuner, but it supports Wi-Fi. The TV contains the Android operating system with all the features attached to it. This model is designed to receive analog and digital channels. Its price is on average 16 thousand rubles.
The Thomson T4ЗFSL51З1 TV, which occupies the third position in the rating, is equipped with a high-quality processor with 4 cores and a powerful video card. With it, you can go online, watch videos and listen to music from other devices. Users noted in positive reviews a fast boot, thanks to which the TV turns on almost instantly. The price of this model is 20 thousand rubles.
Rating of the best models and prices of Smart TVs with the optimal ratio of characteristics
Smart TV Erisson 50ULEA99T2 Smart is developed based on the Android operating system. This model has a 4K resolution screen, so the user can fully enjoy the natural colors and rich colors. 24p True Cinema video format is supported. The TV is equipped with powerful stereo speakers - 10 W each. There are functions of teletext and video recording on external media, sleep timer, child protection, a sufficient number of connectors. The price in stores ranges from 24-35 thousand rubles.
The second line belongs to the SUPRA STV-LC60GT5000U TV, which reproduces colors very realistically, and also has a bright 4K screen. This model is equipped with two tuners. The significant advantages include surround sound and the ability to record on removable media.
Note! SUPRA STV-LC60GT5000U can store over 1000 channels and is capable of transmitting over 1 billion colors.
The manufacturer also distinguished itself by its high build quality. The company monitors the emergence of new technologies and tries to use them in its technology. The disadvantages of this model include its heavy weight, which is 21.8 kg. The price for this TV is in the range of 39-45 thousand rubles.
The “smart” TV Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 got the third line. The manufacturer used its own Direct-Lit technology to illuminate the screen. This model has a very thin body, so it can harmoniously fit into the modern interior of the apartment. Xiaomi TV advantages:
- quad-core processor;
- progressive scan;
- content recommendation function;
- stereo sound;
- remote control with voice control system.
The speakers in the TV are low-power - only 8 W, but there is an impressive amount of memory: RAM - 2 GB, flash memory - 8 GB. The cost of this model is 40-50 thousand rubles.
Rating of high-quality TVs Smart TV: prices and review of reliable and expensive models
The most reliable TV users called Sonu KD-49XF7005. It runs on Linux operating system.The scan rate is 200 frames per second, which, combined with the 4K screen resolution and HDR technology, provides a high-quality picture. The built-in memory is 4 GB. Its advantages:
- the presence of multiple HDMI inputs (3 pcs.);
- anti-reflective coating on the screen;
- the possibility of video recording;
- light weight (only 12 kg);
- stereo sound.
The cost of this model is in the range of 45-60 thousand rubles.
Panasonic TX-55FXR600 smart TV with DLNA backlit screen ranks second in the ranking of the most reliable devices. Considering its numerous advantages and excellent characteristics, the price (60 thousand rubles) will not seem too high to buyers.
This model has the following advantages:
- 24p True Cinema supported;
- it is possible to connect to various devices (a large set of connectors);
- Wi-Fi with a stable signal;
- the ability to record video to removable media;
- headphone port;
- light sensor and sleep timer.
The rating of reliable devices closes the Samsung TV UE58NU7100U. This model boasts superb picture detail, making dynamic movie scenes look impressive and natural at the same time. The browser has a preview function, which greatly saves the user's time. This TV has other options:
- the Samsung Cloud function allows you to store videos and photos "on the cloud";
- the ability to view photos from your phone on the TV screen;
- surround sound (Dolby Digital system);
- support for most formats;
- teletext, etc.
The price of Samsung Smart TV of this model, depending on the store, can range from 53 to 60 thousand rubles.
Samsung QE65Q7FNA is recognized as the best TV in the premium segment of technology. The manufacturer found a high-quality 4K UHD screen resolution and picture enhancement technologies not enough, so this model was also supplemented with a modern Kewled matrix. The secret of a bright and realistic image lies in a special coating made of nanoparticles. Thanks to this, the matrix is capable of transmitting more than 1 billion shades. The average cost of this TV is 200 thousand rubles.
The second and third places in this rating belong to LG OLED65C8 TVs (330 thousand rubles) and Sonu KD-75XF9005 (400 thousand rubles), respectively. Both of these models have a number of excellent features and extensive functionality.
After analyzing customer reviews on the forums and the characteristics of many devices, one can come to the conclusion that modern TVs have long left the limits of their main purpose. The possibilities that open up to users are almost endless.
Manufacturers have worked hard to create truly useful and functional equipment for all occasions. The assortment is so diverse that each customer can easily find the optimal model for work, entertainment or communication on social networks.