Smart TV Buying Guide

Buy the best smart TV for your home

What Is a Smart TV?

Smart TVs connect to the internet, making the most out of streaming services, music platforms and free-to-air digital channels without the help of other devices like your phone or computer. Today, you can expect Smart TVs to offer easy access to applications like Netflix, Stan & Disney Plus. But, Smart TV Brands are continually adding new applications for their customers too. So, you can sit back and relax, knowing you won't miss out on the next big thing.

What TV Size Should I Get?​

55-inch, 65 inch and 75-inch smart TVs dominate Australian homes, but how much space should you aim for to make these dimensions work? 55-inch Smart TVs need between 2.1m and 3.5m of sitting distance for a comfortable night, while 65-inch TVs require 2.4m to 4.1m. 75-inch smart TVs work in a room with at least 2.8m of distance, but 4.7m is recommended.


Small living room woes? Investigate a 4KTV - the pixel technology demands less space between your eyes on the couch and the picture on the TV.

Our TV Type Breakdown

OLED vs QLED

QLED TVs (Quantum Light-Emitting Diode) are the next generation of LED panels, while QLED TVs (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) bring a brand-new technology set to living rooms around the country. While there are many differences between the two, They key differences are how each uses light. QLEDs rely on a traditional LED backlight panel behind an infusion of nanotech, using quantum dots to deliver bright pictures and beautiful colours.  While OLED TVs (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) are emissive, meaning every pixel illuminating your screen is an LED bulb - tiny, thin and powerful, these minute LEDs produce both light and colour, removing the need for a backlight.

OLED

OLED technology is centered around delivering the clearest picture. While QLEDs rival OLED in bright environments, OLED TVs really shine in low light. Boasting unrivalled image quality and contrast technology, buyers will be treated to inky blacks, bright whites and increased image depth, creating a cinematic experience without leaving home. Popular with new generation gamers, the reduced power consumption and faster response times make a QLED TV the popular pick for households wanting more out of their television.


Pros: Clear colours, inky blacks and increased energy efficiency.

Cons: Image burn may become an issue over time.

QLED

QLED TVs are the ideal purchase for those searching for a TV with a bright, crystal-clear display. Recommended for everyday streaming in low light and daytime conditions, these high-performance panels are packed with sound and connectivity features on a full spectrum of price points. Although Samsung pioneered the QLED revolution, other brands have adopted the technology, including Hisense, Sharp and TCL, ensuring consumers can balance options with innovation.


Pros: Picture quality, sharp brightness, large screen sizes and lower price tags.  

Cons: Be aware screen flickers can occur as your QLED ages.

QLED Lifespan: 5-7 years

LED

Emerging in 2005, the LED TV has maintained its popularity thanks to its high-definition picture quality and thin design. Although these panels struggle to produce the blacks of an OLED or the vibrancy of a QLED, an LED TV is a great choice for those who want to watch their favorite shows and movies at home, without thinking too much about screen refresh rate. Known for their long lifespan and energy efficiency, LED TVs come in a wide range of sizes to suit all budgets.


Pros: Thin and light design, environmentally friendly, more durable and easy maintenance

Cons: Minimal viewing angles, slow refresh rate, struggles to produce dark blacks

LED lifespan: 7 to 13 years

Full Array

Full Array TVs are a great option for viewers who love to see all the details, especially during dark or shadowy scenes. These TVs have hundreds of lights spread out more widely across the screen and offer sharper detail, more realistic colour and deeper black levels. The local dimming capability of these TVs makes them an excellent choice for any room - no matter the lighting.


Pros: Increased brightness without washout, better black levels and more precision.

Cons: They can be more expensive for an LED panel and may experience backlighting issues.

Full Array Lifespan: 4-7 years.

MicroLED

MicroLED is a relatively new technology and promises key improvements over other TV panel types. Your favourite TV shows and movies are presented in excellent colour, with almost perfect blacks and higher contrast and brightness. Unlike some other TVs, MicroLEDs are immune to burn in and luminance decay issues, meaning you can expect bright, crisp images for years on end. Aside from near-perfect images, these TVs boast a longer-life span and lower power consumption than other technologies.


Pros: Excellent colour, great off-angle viewing and immune to burn in.

Cons: Limited sizes and higher cost due to expensive production.

MicroLED Lifespan: 11 years

Screen Resolution

You’ve probably heard resolution mentioned before, usually in reference to computer monitors, smartphones and televisions.

What is aspect ratio? Is it the same as resolution?

Not exactly. While resolution and aspect ratio are close cousins, aspect ratio measures width to the height of the display - you’ll notice some screens may distort or stretch the picture if the screen size isn’t up to the task.

Are higher resolutions better?

It depends what you want and expect from your television, but generally yes, higher resolutions are the way forward. Not only do they produce crystal clear pictures, but you can expect sharper details and a stunning viewing experience all around.

8K

8K is the highest definition available for at-home viewing. Operating at four times the definition of full HD, this resolution offers amazing details that can be watched from any angle, without image interruption.

4K

4K is the standard for TV resolution with more movies, shows and sport games being produced in 4K

Boasting 4 times the number of pixels than HD, 4K is known for clear, defined details and textures. Keep in mind that you might need accessories to be 4K-compatible.

UHD

The next step up from HD, UHD (Ultra High Definition) has a higher resolution, making even the smallest details stand out on screen. Enjoy lifelike images, smooth transitions between scenes and smooth movements. On the downside, UHD TVs can be expensive and have a lack of viewing options.

HDR

When HDR is at work, you’ll see more textures and vibrant colours on-screen. HDR is often paired with a newer technology called wide colour gamut technology, or WCG. Keep in mind you won’t get to enjoy all that contrast and colour every time because local networks are still playing catch-up.

What Do All The Different Ports Mean?

HDMI

A TV with a HDMI port is a must-have if you love to stream videos, movies and games. This common input is used to transfer audio and video from one device to another. Connect your game consoles, Blu Ray players and laptops so that you can watch or play on the big screen. You can even connect streaming devices like Google ChromeCast to turn your old TV into a smart TV.

Component

The component ports are the red, blue and green AV ports on the back of your TV. They’re a great alternative for older TVs that aren’t HDMI compatible and are often used to  connect a DVR or media player. Some older-generation game consoles like Playstation 3 also use this port.

S-Video

The S-Video ports (Super-video) are the black circles with lots of smaller dots. This analog video connection was primarily used in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s for video input on TVs. If you have an older analog TV or DVD player, then you might still have use for an S-video cable. While the S-video port will display a bright picture, the connection isn’t as good as component video or HDMI.

Composite

If you’re a DVD/VCR user, then you’ll be familiar with this port. A composite port is an analog format for transferring video signals in standard definition. While plenty of equipment still comes with this port, component or HDMI is your best bet.

Optical Digital

An optical digital connection is great for viewers who want better sound if you don’t have a HDMI spot. This connection sends digital audio between devices, quickly improving the sound of your television. This connection is often used in home theatre systems or stereo systems. You’ll find that fewer devices are being made with this output port.

Coaxial Digital

Like an optical digital cord, the coaxial digital port connects to the sound system to send digital audio. The cord itself tends to be thicker and sturdier than an optical digital cord, and is a great alternative to a HDMI connection.

DVI

A DVI port is a newer connection type and transfers digital signals.

Unlike other connectors, it can carry both digital and analog signals and convert to other stands like HDMI. People often use this port to connect their computer to their TV. They aren’t as high-quality as HDMI but are a good alternative for TVs that aren’t HDMI compatible.

VGA

If you want to plug your computer into your TV, but don’t have a HDMI or DVI port then a VGA is your best port of call. It’s one of the oldest connection standards on the market that transfers analog signals. In the past, it was commonly used for video cards, computer monitors and TV sets.

Antenna In

An Antenna connection is a must-have for anyone who wants to watch free to air TV shows from local television stations in your area. This port provides both video and audio from an over-the air antenna. The only thing you need for this connection is a TV and an antenna.

USB

USB ports serve various functions - from powering a streaming device to acting as an input for USB flash drives. This port is great for people who want to access store media like videos and photos. It can also be used as a wireless adapter and can connect to your WiFi network for internet streaming services like Netflix.

Ethernet

This is a common connection on most new Smart TV’s. An Ethernet connection allows you to directly connect your TV to a wired internet connection for improved performance. This connection is a must for people who want interruption-free streaming or lag-free gaming. You’ll need to run a cable to your internet modem which can be inconvenient, but it can noticeably improve the streaming speed.

Connecting Your TV To The Internet

Your connectivity options will change depending on your viewing needs. Some viewers will be fine with the built-in capability of a Smart TV to connect to streaming services like Netflix, while others will need a wired solution for fast, lag-free streaming.

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Ethernet

Ethernet provides a more reliable connection to your internet network. An Ethernet connection transmits data over cable, making it much faster and more reliable than WiFi. You'll be less likely to experience slowdowns, lag and disconnects while streaming. There are downsides to an Ethernet connection. If you go Ethernet-only, you lose the ability to stream from mobile devices, smartphones and portable gaming systems. You’ll also need to make sure that your TV is close to your internet router.

Wi-Fi

WiFi connects your device to the Internet over wireless signals rather than a physical cord. WiFi allows the user to cast content from your phone or computer to your smart TV.

Find A TV That Suits You

Tech terms aside, make sure you consider your lifestyle to find a TV that connects with your needs.

The Entertainers

Do you host movie nights, or classic marathons for friends and family? You’ll need something with in-built streaming apps, crisp and clear picture quality (even in changing light) and decent on-board sound to top it off.

New Gen Gamers

The next generation of TVs have a lot to offer for serious gamers, delivering high refresh rates and unrivalled definition to ensure your gaming experience is everything it should be. Don’t sell your graphics short - everything will be 4K very soon!

Sports fans

Do you love supporting your favourite team from the comfort of the lounge? Look for a TV with low input lag and a high refresh rate to capture every play, point and moment.

Start Shopping

Is your home a hub of activity? Do you host movie nights, binge fests or classic marathons for friends, family and sometimes friends of friends? An entertainment orientated smart TV is for you.

Is your home a hub of activity? Do you host movie nights, binge fests or classic marathons for friends, family and sometimes friends of friends? An entertainment orientated smart TV is for you.

Is your home a hub of activity? Do you host movie nights, binge fests or classic marathons for friends, family and sometimes friends of friends? An entertainment orientated smart TV is for you.