What Things You Should Keep In Mind Before Purchasing A TV
Shahina Mulk
This article is the second and final series of TV buying guide. In the first one, I had discussed the difference between IPS and VA panel along with elucidating on the types of backlighting used in a TV. That video gave you an insight into the type of panels and backlighting that you should look for, in a TV. If you have not watched that video, on my channel Techiebeez India, do it right now.
Part 1 - https://www.theindianobserver.com/2019/07/tv-purchasing-guide-which-tv-you-should.html
Before I start, I would like to give you an important information. Off late Jio TV has stopped working. In one of my latest videos, I have provided information regarding an application that give you access to more than 400 channels in HD, SD and 4k resolution and that too free of cost. You can watch most of the Premium channels too without any subscription fees. Youtube video link https://youtu.be/lz98deXeGjg After side-loading that app on your Android TV or Android TV box, you will not need any set top box too.
These days, many budget companies are coming up with high blown, on-paper specifications to lure customers. My sincere advice to you all is not to get swayed by these pseudo marketing techniques. If any budget company is laying stake to high-end specifications in its low cost TV, then it is totally wrong! As the cost of a TV will automatically shoot up if hardware of high specifications and quality are used. And, no company will sell TV without a good profit.
We can consider those TVs an exception that come up with innovative technology solely on the basis of extensive research and development. Only these companies can afford to sell high-performing TVs at a low cost.
Nowadays, a new trend has come in place. Wherein foreign companies offer individuals, the license to use their brand name at a set price. Local manufacturers buy these license and market locally assembled TVs under the banner of some big international brand, though, the reality is that they are just locally assembled TVs that get some sort of marketing cooperation from these foreign brands. While buying these TVs we think we a buying a TV of an international brand, whereas the reality is totally different. So I suggest you that go by the ground performance of a TV rather than just going by its brand name and specifications. Those reviewers who have seen both TVs side by side with their own eyes can only be the best judge regarding the performance of any two TVs. Any TV when viewed alone will definitely look good, the reality only deems upon us when we see it side by side any good TV.
Now, let us talk about the low cost budget TVs of bigger brands. In my opinion, the budget TVs of Sony are better than the budget TVs of Samsung and LG as their refresh rate is very less, which results in motion blur during action scenes. However, Sony has developed a technology known as MotionFlow, through which it compensates the low refresh rate. On closely observing a Sony TV side by side other TVs, you will notice that motion blur in Sony would be the minimum, whereas budget TVs of Samsung and LG will exhibit more motion blur during action scenes. The motion blur handling capacity of LG will be the poorest as they mostly use IPS panels, whose refresh rate is not as good as VA panel.
In order to compete with these bigger brands, many budget companies have come up with innovative technologies in their TVs that beat bigger brands in picture quality as well as features.
Now, let us talk about the low cost budget TVs of bigger brands. In my opinion, the budget TVs of Sony are better than the budget TVs of Samsung and LG as their refresh rate is very less, which results in motion blur during action scenes. However, Sony has developed a technology known as MotionFlow, through which it compensates the low refresh rate. On closely observing a Sony TV side by side other TVs, you will notice that motion blur in Sony would be the minimum, whereas budget TVs of Samsung and LG will exhibit more motion blur during action scenes. The motion blur handling capacity of LG will be the poorest as they mostly use IPS panels, whose refresh rate is not as good as VA panel.
In order to compete with these bigger brands, many budget companies have come up with innovative technologies in their TVs that beat bigger brands in picture quality as well as features.
Thus buying a low-cost TV of a bigger brand that lags behind other much lower cost TVs in picture performance as well as features seems redundant to me. Yes, you do get strong after sales support of these branded companies when you buy their TV, but the support is limited only till warranty period ends. After that, the charge for repairs and replacement of parts is exorbitant that makes a hole in your pocket. Whereas, budget TVs can be repaired at a lower cost than the branded ones.
Now coming to the point that which TV you should buy, 4k, FHD or HD Ready.
Nowadays, there is not much of 4k content and even if it is available, it requires high Internet speed as well as a broadband plan that comes with unlimited data. So, if you have both these things and you are a person who watches Netflix then a 4k TV will be the most appropriate one for you. But if you want to watch only SD channels then an HD Ready or utmost FHD TV, will be sufficient for you. You need to understand that even after buying a 4k TV, if you are continuing with the services of your local DTH operator or are still using the SD set top Box, then the quality of the channels will be poorer than that seen on an HD Ready or FHD TV. A True 4k TV does not play SD channels as good as an FHD or an HD Ready TV.
Here, I would like to point out that even if you have an FHD, an HD Ready TV, or a CRT TV, then too, you can watch 4k videos on it through an external Android TV box. But, the quality of that 4k video will depend on the native resolution of your TV! This means, if your TV is FHD then 4k videos will play on it in 1080p and if it is HD ready, then they will play in 720p. You just get the playability of 4k videos on your TV through an Android TV box, you cannot change its native resolution through any external measure.
At the time of purchasing a 4k TV, the foremost thing that you should look for, apart from the picture quality, is its picture upscaling capability.
At a time when 4k content is rare, investing so much in a 4k TV seems rational only if that TV has a good picture upscaling capability. If the picture upscaling capability of any TV is good, you get the privilege of watching even 720p videos on it in very good resolution. This way you cut down upon your Internet charges, by downloading a video in low resolution, but watching it in high quality on your 4k TV.
A 4k TV that does not support picture upscaling is meant for nothing apart from watching Netflix and some sample YouTube videos in 4k.
If you ask me why I have purchased a 4k TV, I would say, it is for watching 720p movies in high clarity.
If your budget does not permit buying a smart TV, then go for a plain TV as later on you can buy a separate Android TV box and make your TV fully Android Smart. Not only would it upscale the picture quality of videos seen through it, but it will also not be instrumental in slowing down your TV alike some Android TVs that slow down with time. Remember, a good Android TV box also reduces the motion blur in your TV.
Now coming to the topic that which Smart TV, you should go in for. So here, I would like to apprise you that the Tizen operating of Samsung and the WebOs of LG come with limitations. They do not allow you to side-load any application. You only just get access to the preloaded applications and those that are available in their respective stores. Many come asking me whether they can play Jio TV or any other Android application not available on their Samsung or LG TVs, the answer is no you can't! So before purchasing a smart TV, do ensure the playability of your favorite application on that TV. Otherwise, you will again need to invest in some Android TV box, in order to play that application of yours. The Android Operating system of Sony leaves much more options for you than Samsung or LG.
Now, coming to the point that what is the main thing that you should stress upon while purchasing a TV. It should be the picture quality as later on you can do nothing to enhance it. Remember, the picture quality of a TV is inherent and it stays there till the time you own that TV. The smartness or audio can always be boosted through external measures, but the picture quality stays as it is! And a TV is all about your visual experience.
If once you purchase a TV, giving priority to any other parameter, rather than picture quality, you will definitely repent in future.
You need to set your priorities, here too! Whether you need a perfect smart TV with good audio and just average picture quality or a TV that churns out excellent visuals but somewhat lags in smartness or audio.
In my opinion, purchasing a TV online is a better option than that purchased from a retailer, unless you are getting a very good deal. When you purchase online, you get the option of replacement for a limited period, while outside there is no such provision. Even if your newly purchased TV has any problem, you are directed to the service center, where generally you are provided with the option of repairing.
However, while purchasing online, you need to carefully check the performance of your TV for any manufacturing defects before the closure of your return window, so that it can be dully replaced.
Now coming to the durability of any TV. Theoretically, the life of an LED TV varies between 60000 hours to 1 lakh hours. As branded costly TVs have a better quality of hardware, we suppose that they will have much better durability than budget TVs. But this is not the case, as I frequently receive complaints from people that their Sony, Samsung or LG TV went out of order within 3 years. This is why predicting the life of any TV is impossible. However, there are certain precautions, following which, you can enhance the life of your TV.
1. As you all know that each LED bulb comes with a limited life and all regular TVs, whether 4k, FHD or HD Ready, they come with LED backlighting only. So unwarranted use of TV should be avoided. Many people leave their TVs switched on even if they are not watching it directly. They use it as a background sound to provide them company during household chores, which reduces the life of your TV. If you are not watching the TV switch it off and instead use a radio.
2. Don't leave your TV on standby mode for long hours When you are not watching the TV, it is better that you unplug it or at least switch off the button.
3. When a TV is dispatched from the company, especially a budget one, its backlight is set at 100 to make it look its best. You need to reduce the backlight to 50. Many budget TVs do not give you the option to play with the backlight settings. It is auto set at 100 in order to prove that the TV has high brightness and contrast ratio. Refrain from buying such TVs as their lives would definitely be short.
4. If you are watching TV in your house, keep the lights dim, so that even on low brightness and contrast, you get a very good picture quality, without you feeling the need to increase these values.
5. Places where voltage fluctuations are common, you should use a good stabilizer with your TV. Continuous high or low Voltage reduces the life of your TV.
6. Never place your TV near the window in direct sunlight keep it well ventilated. Never cover the back when it is switched on. Heat damages the internal parts of any TV and gradually it goes out of order. Place your TV in a cool, non-humid environment. Protect it from dust. Don't keep it close to the floor as then dust settles fast on it.
7. Try to get your TV wall mounted as it remains safe over there.
8. Don't clean your TV screen with Collin or any harsh liquid. Just use a clean microfiber cloth to remove the dust that settles on the surface.
Youtube Video link for 1st Part
In English: https://youtu.be/1G55FbXsIec
In Hindi: https://youtu.be/8CDa_CjZH6Y
Nowadays, there is not much of 4k content and even if it is available, it requires high Internet speed as well as a broadband plan that comes with unlimited data. So, if you have both these things and you are a person who watches Netflix then a 4k TV will be the most appropriate one for you. But if you want to watch only SD channels then an HD Ready or utmost FHD TV, will be sufficient for you. You need to understand that even after buying a 4k TV, if you are continuing with the services of your local DTH operator or are still using the SD set top Box, then the quality of the channels will be poorer than that seen on an HD Ready or FHD TV. A True 4k TV does not play SD channels as good as an FHD or an HD Ready TV.
Here, I would like to point out that even if you have an FHD, an HD Ready TV, or a CRT TV, then too, you can watch 4k videos on it through an external Android TV box. But, the quality of that 4k video will depend on the native resolution of your TV! This means, if your TV is FHD then 4k videos will play on it in 1080p and if it is HD ready, then they will play in 720p. You just get the playability of 4k videos on your TV through an Android TV box, you cannot change its native resolution through any external measure.
At the time of purchasing a 4k TV, the foremost thing that you should look for, apart from the picture quality, is its picture upscaling capability.
At a time when 4k content is rare, investing so much in a 4k TV seems rational only if that TV has a good picture upscaling capability. If the picture upscaling capability of any TV is good, you get the privilege of watching even 720p videos on it in very good resolution. This way you cut down upon your Internet charges, by downloading a video in low resolution, but watching it in high quality on your 4k TV.
A 4k TV that does not support picture upscaling is meant for nothing apart from watching Netflix and some sample YouTube videos in 4k.
If you ask me why I have purchased a 4k TV, I would say, it is for watching 720p movies in high clarity.
If your budget does not permit buying a smart TV, then go for a plain TV as later on you can buy a separate Android TV box and make your TV fully Android Smart. Not only would it upscale the picture quality of videos seen through it, but it will also not be instrumental in slowing down your TV alike some Android TVs that slow down with time. Remember, a good Android TV box also reduces the motion blur in your TV.
Now coming to the topic that which Smart TV, you should go in for. So here, I would like to apprise you that the Tizen operating of Samsung and the WebOs of LG come with limitations. They do not allow you to side-load any application. You only just get access to the preloaded applications and those that are available in their respective stores. Many come asking me whether they can play Jio TV or any other Android application not available on their Samsung or LG TVs, the answer is no you can't! So before purchasing a smart TV, do ensure the playability of your favorite application on that TV. Otherwise, you will again need to invest in some Android TV box, in order to play that application of yours. The Android Operating system of Sony leaves much more options for you than Samsung or LG.
Now, coming to the point that what is the main thing that you should stress upon while purchasing a TV. It should be the picture quality as later on you can do nothing to enhance it. Remember, the picture quality of a TV is inherent and it stays there till the time you own that TV. The smartness or audio can always be boosted through external measures, but the picture quality stays as it is! And a TV is all about your visual experience.
If once you purchase a TV, giving priority to any other parameter, rather than picture quality, you will definitely repent in future.
You need to set your priorities, here too! Whether you need a perfect smart TV with good audio and just average picture quality or a TV that churns out excellent visuals but somewhat lags in smartness or audio.
In my opinion, purchasing a TV online is a better option than that purchased from a retailer, unless you are getting a very good deal. When you purchase online, you get the option of replacement for a limited period, while outside there is no such provision. Even if your newly purchased TV has any problem, you are directed to the service center, where generally you are provided with the option of repairing.
However, while purchasing online, you need to carefully check the performance of your TV for any manufacturing defects before the closure of your return window, so that it can be dully replaced.
Now coming to the durability of any TV. Theoretically, the life of an LED TV varies between 60000 hours to 1 lakh hours. As branded costly TVs have a better quality of hardware, we suppose that they will have much better durability than budget TVs. But this is not the case, as I frequently receive complaints from people that their Sony, Samsung or LG TV went out of order within 3 years. This is why predicting the life of any TV is impossible. However, there are certain precautions, following which, you can enhance the life of your TV.
The durability of any TV also depends on your usage. The way you use or maintain it!
1. As you all know that each LED bulb comes with a limited life and all regular TVs, whether 4k, FHD or HD Ready, they come with LED backlighting only. So unwarranted use of TV should be avoided. Many people leave their TVs switched on even if they are not watching it directly. They use it as a background sound to provide them company during household chores, which reduces the life of your TV. If you are not watching the TV switch it off and instead use a radio.
2. Don't leave your TV on standby mode for long hours When you are not watching the TV, it is better that you unplug it or at least switch off the button.
3. When a TV is dispatched from the company, especially a budget one, its backlight is set at 100 to make it look its best. You need to reduce the backlight to 50. Many budget TVs do not give you the option to play with the backlight settings. It is auto set at 100 in order to prove that the TV has high brightness and contrast ratio. Refrain from buying such TVs as their lives would definitely be short.
4. If you are watching TV in your house, keep the lights dim, so that even on low brightness and contrast, you get a very good picture quality, without you feeling the need to increase these values.
5. Places where voltage fluctuations are common, you should use a good stabilizer with your TV. Continuous high or low Voltage reduces the life of your TV.
6. Never place your TV near the window in direct sunlight keep it well ventilated. Never cover the back when it is switched on. Heat damages the internal parts of any TV and gradually it goes out of order. Place your TV in a cool, non-humid environment. Protect it from dust. Don't keep it close to the floor as then dust settles fast on it.
7. Try to get your TV wall mounted as it remains safe over there.
8. Don't clean your TV screen with Collin or any harsh liquid. Just use a clean microfiber cloth to remove the dust that settles on the surface.
Link First Part of this Article https://www.theindianobserver.com/2019/07/tv-purchasing-guide-which-tv-you-should.html
Youtube Video link for 1st Part
In English: https://youtu.be/1G55FbXsIec
In Hindi: https://youtu.be/8CDa_CjZH6Y
8 Comments
What is Dolby Vision which is in SONY 900F.
ReplyDeleteWHAT IS PICTURE QUALITY DIFFERENCE IN BETWEEN SONY 9000F Vs SONY 8500F.
Nice
ReplyDeleteit was very insightful..so Vu premium Tv 55" still your best pick for budget android tv? my usage-mostly HD channels from Setup box & some Amazon prime app content.
ReplyDeleteWhich TV purchase in 50000 budget
ReplyDeleteMaam, best 65 inch tv as per you?
ReplyDeleteBudget 100000
Requirement: HD channels and online streaming only.
so which panel is better for fast action scenes? IPS or VA?
ReplyDeleteVA as they perform good in action s
DeleteWhich tv I can purchase up to 20000 budget.
ReplyDeleteSize 32 inch
HD channels only