In the era of smart technology, dumb TVs are no longer widely available. “True” dumb TVs have largely been phased out and are difficult to find. The best dumb TV sets today are generally smart TVs that you simply never connect to the internet. This means you still have access to basic features, such as a remote control, HDMI ports to connect external devices, and the full spectrum of screen sizes, but cannot do anything that would require an internet connection. This means no streaming, no smart apps, and no integration with any smart devices.
Product
| True Score
|
Price | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
| 94 | $2,279.00 $3,000 SAVE $721 | ||
2 | 93 | $887.95 $1,400 SAVE $512 | |||
3 |
| 92 | $1,796.99 $2,500 SAVE $703 | ||
4 | 91 | $1,296.99 $1,500 SAVE $203 | |||
5 |
| 91 | $840.91 $2,298 SAVE $1,457 | ||
6 | 91 | $298.00 $420 SAVE $122 | |||
7 | 91 | $2,898.95 |
Top Dumb TVs
- Read Full Review → : Sony A95K OLED TVSony
Sony A95K OLED TV
Best for Home Theater
The Sony A95K OLED TV boasts a fast response time, a high peak brightness, HDMI 2.1 support, and good reflection diffusion, making it a superb choice for AV enthusiasts and console gamers alike. But its lack of FreeSync will keep away more serious gamers.
True Score
949413Experts
98182Customers
Cosmic WonderSAVE $721$2,999.99$2,279.00Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Remarkable picture quality
Impressive for movies and gaming, the TV’s terrific HDR color gamut (100% coverage on DCI P3 xy) exhibits true-to-life imagery and intricate details. Moreover, dark scenes are excellent with rich, deep blacks and perfect black uniformity (native std. Deviation of 0.157%).
- High brightness and contrast
It does a great job at eliminating glare in light-filled rooms with its tested 983 nits peak brightness, performing better than 83% of our tested TVs. Additionally, nighttime viewing is immersive, given its near-infinite contrast ratio (inf:1).
- Low response time and input lag
High-speed games display smooth visuals due to its near-instantaneous 0.2 ms response time. Moreover, casual gamers will find its reasonably responsive 16.9 ms input lag (4K at 60Hz), which ranks in the bottom third of our tested TVs, acceptable.
- Fast refresh rate and VRR support
On-screen content remains remarkably smooth thanks to its 120 Hz refresh rate and screen tearing is out of the picture with VRR compatibility.
- Wide viewing angles
Family movie nights allow for an equally immersive view from most areas of the room as colors wash out only after 70°, which means visuals remain fairly consistent.
Reasons to Avoid
- Relatively low SDR brightness
The 346 nits peak SDR brightness isn’t bright enough for daytime use and is more suited for dim or dark rooms.
Specifications
Backlight Type Self-Emitting Pixels Display Type QD-OLED HDMI Inputs 4 HDMI Type HDMI 2.1 HDR Format Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG HomeKit Compatible Yes LED Panel Type OLED Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Number of Audio Channels 7.1 Panel Type QD-OLED Refresh Rate 120 Hz Screen size 55", 65" Smart Platform Google TV Speaker Output 20W + 20W + 10W + 10W Sync Technology No VRR Yes All Specs
Test Results
Color Gamut % (DCI P3 xy) 99.2375 Color Gamut % (DCI P3 uv) 100 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 xy) 86.34 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 uv) 91.28 Color Gamut % (sRGB) 99.9 Color Gamut % (Rec 709) 110.8 Color Gamut % (BT.2020) 89.35 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB) 91 Color Gamut % (BT.709) No Data Contrast Ratio (x:1) No Data SDR Brightness (nits) 517 HDR Brightness (nits) 952 Input Lag (ms) 14.4 Response Time (ms) 4.1 Color Washout (Degrees) 70 Color Shift (Degrees) 70 Brightness Loss (Degrees) 70 Reflections (%) 1.1 Low-Freq Extension (Hz) 84.76 Freq Response StdDev @ 70db 3.89 Freq Response StdDev @ 80db 3.06 Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion @80db 0.229 Intermodulation Distortion @80db 1.25 EOTF (600 nit delta) 0.0012 EOTF (1000 nit delta) 0.0012 EOTF (4000 nit delta) 0.0011 All Specs
All Retailers
- $2,279.00$3,000Save $721
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $2,519.99$2,800Save $280
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $2,798.00
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
The Sony A95K OLED TV is a fantastic option for AV enthusiasts looking for a good QD-OLED model to display in their living rooms or movie dens, as it features an excellent peak brightness tested at around 983 nits.
It also boasts four HDMI ports and two of them have the recent HDMI 2.1 standard for console users. And it sports excellent deep black levels with an infinite tested contrast ratio, thanks to its Quantum Dot OLED tech, which helps HDR content look amazing.
Moreover, it comes with an excellent matte display which works well against reflections.
It also features a near-instantaneous response time which was measured at 0.2 ms. But it does not have NVIDIA G Sync or AMD Free Sync for hardcore gamers, despite having VRR.
- Read Full Review → : LG C2 OLED TVLG
LG C2 OLED TV
Overall, the LG C2 OLED TV is a good mid-range TV. While there are some uniformity and software concerns, it’s a top-notch choice if you desire outstanding visuals and immersive gaming, though other brands now offer OLED alternatives with more features.
True Score
939412Experts
9316kCustomers
Cosmic WonderSAVE $512$1,399.99$887.95Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent picture quality
The self-admissive OLED tech provides high-quality visuals and is most beneficial for gaming, but it’s also great for sports HDR content. It also offers a wide 99.36% color gamut, providing rich, vibrant displays.
- Infinite contrast ratio
Delivers deep, true black levels, specifically when viewing HDR content in dark rooms. When tested, the contrast ratio of Inf:1, which is right at the top of the OLED category.
- Effective motion handling
It has a hyper-fast control input and produces virtually no blurriness or tearing during fast-paced scenes, given its tested 2.4 ms input lag and 0.2 ms response time.
Both metrics rank among the top of the OLED TV category.
- Excellent refresh rates
Fast-paced gaming visuals are smooth, given its 120 Hz refresh rate and VRR.
- Wide viewing angles
Provides excellent visuals, even at off-angle viewing, as it boasts 70-degree viewing angles.
Reasons to Avoid
- Weak peak brightness in certain settings
The TV’s brightness works fine for typical viewing, but during very bright scenes, it can appear dimmed in brighter rooms, given it maxes out at 810 nits, which is slightly below average for the OLED category.
- Unimpressive bass performance
Especially at higher volumes, the TV does not produce proper bass levels to match the higher frequencies
- Remote controls can be oversensitive
- Alexa integration can be unreliable and frustrating
- WebOS interface has ads and clutter
Specifications
Backlight Type Self-Emitting Pixels Display Type OLED HDMI Inputs 4 HDMI Type HDMI 2.1 HDR Format Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG HomeKit Compatible Yes LED Panel Type OLED Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Number of Audio Channels 2.2 Panel Type OLED Refresh Rate 120 Hz Screen size 42", 48", 55", 65", 77", 83" Smart Platform webOS Speaker Output 40 Watts Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, G-Sync VRR Yes All Specs
Test Results
Color Gamut % (DCI P3 xy) 98.326 Color Gamut % (DCI P3 uv) 99.36 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 xy) 71.875 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 uv) 76.26 Color Gamut % (sRGB) 100 Color Gamut % (Rec 709) 134.45 Color Gamut % (BT.2020) No Data Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB) 88.8 Color Gamut % (BT.709) No Data Contrast Ratio (x:1) No Data SDR Brightness (nits) 344 HDR Brightness (nits) 809 Input Lag (ms) 11.6 Response Time (ms) 2.4 Color Washout (Degrees) 65 Color Shift (Degrees) 27 Brightness Loss (Degrees) 70 Reflections (%) 1.5 Low-Freq Extension (Hz) 80 Freq Response StdDev @ 70db 2.29 Freq Response StdDev @ 80db 2.87 Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion @80db 0.083 Intermodulation Distortion @80db 0.86 EOTF (600 nit delta) 0.0038 EOTF (1000 nit delta) 0.0044 EOTF (4000 nit delta) 0.0064 All Specs
All Retailers
- $887.95$1,400Save $512
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
LG C2 OLED TV provides a nearly infinite contrast ratio of 1, perfect blacks, and no blooming or haloing, making it ideal for dark room viewing. And with an 820 cd/m² white luminance, it has impressive brightness and reflection handling to suit bright rooms and wide seating arrangements.
Gamers will appreciate the low input lag, a tested blazing 2.4 ms 100% response time, four HDMI 2.1 inputs, and 120Hz gaming capabilities, enhancing the gaming experience.
However, it has flaws. Some users may find the aggressive automatic brightness limiting feature distracting, experience uniformity issues at angles, and face a slight learning curve with the menu settings. The TV’s lack of support for certain high-resolution audio formats could be disappointing for audiophiles.
Category Snapshot
TVs
- Total Brands/Products Tested
17 Brands, 156 Products
- Top 2 Brands
LG, Hisense
- Price Range (Budget-Premium)
$400-$2000
- Average True Score
79.65
- Important Test Criteria
Brightness (cd/m2)
Contrast Ratio (1000:1) - Most Trusted Testers
- Top TV Experts
- Recommended Retailer
- Typical Warranty
1 year
- Covered by Insurance
Yes – AKKO
- Test Methodology
- Read Full Review → : LG G3 OLED TVLG
LG G3 OLED TV
Best for 80-inch
The LG G3 OLED TV delivers stunning picture quality with near-infinite contrast and great brightness for SDR/HDR content. Despite minor flaws, the TV is a top-tier choice, offering a dazzling experience for those willing to invest in the premium option.
True Score
929415Experts
923kCustomers
Absolutely FreshSAVE $703$2,499.99$1,796.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent picture quality
The display delivers strong performance for HDR content, sports, gaming, and casual viewing. It’s fast and detailed, and its tested 99.13% DCI color gamut provides accurate, vibrant colors and is one of the best in the OLED category.
- Near-infinite contrast ratio resulting in perfect blacks
Black levels are perfect, meaning viewers experience heightened visuals, especially when watching HDR content in dark rooms, as it has an Inf : 1 contrast ratio.
- Extremely bright for an OLED
Visuals stay accurate and clear, even in brightly lit rooms, and tests confirm the TV has a 1449 nit peak brightness, making it one of the best in the OLED category.
- Fast motion handling
Gamers will enjoy rapid command inputs, as the TV has a stellar 9.2 ms input lag. Additionally, the pixels change without noticeable blurring or delay when viewing fast-moving objects, and its response time is at .2 ms. In both respects, the G3 ranks at the top of the OLED category.
- Exceptionally wide viewing angle
Off-angle viewing experiences no color washouts or inconsistency, given the TVs near perfect 70-degree viewing angles.
Reasons to Avoid
- Aggressive automatic brightness limiter
Overactive ABL can cause clarity issues when viewing in bright rooms.
- Subpar sound quality
Speakers struggle to produce accurate bass at high volumes, and sound slightly distorts when emitting single frequencies.
Specifications
Backlight Type n/a Display Type OLED HDMI Inputs 4 HDMI Type HDMI 2.1 HDR Format Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG HomeKit Compatible Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Number of Audio Channels 4.2 Panel Type OLED Refresh Rate 120 Hz Screen size 55", 65", 77", 83" Smart Platform webOS Speaker Output 60 watts Sync Technology G-Sync VRR Yes All Specs
Test Results
Color Gamut % (DCI P3 xy) 97.54571429 Color Gamut % (DCI P3 uv) 99.13 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 xy) 73.65 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 uv) 75.48 Color Gamut % (sRGB) 100 Color Gamut % (Rec 709) 99.7631 Color Gamut % (BT.2020) 74.4 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB) 94 Color Gamut % (BT.709) No Data Contrast Ratio (x:1) No Data SDR Brightness (nits) 503 HDR Brightness (nits) 1385 Input Lag (ms) 11.8 Response Time (ms) 2.6 Color Washout (Degrees) 70 Color Shift (Degrees) 70 Brightness Loss (Degrees) 70 Reflections (%) 0.9 Low-Freq Extension (Hz) 89.8 Freq Response StdDev @ 70db 2.01 Freq Response StdDev @ 80db 2 Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion @80db 0.143 Intermodulation Distortion @80db 1.4 EOTF (600 nit delta) 0.0027 EOTF (1000 nit delta) 0.0039 EOTF (4000 nit delta) 0.0036 All Specs
All Retailers
- $1,796.99$2,500Save $703
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $1,796.99$2,500Save $703
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $1,799.99$2,000Save $200
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $1,896.99$2,497Save $600
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Our Verdict
The LG G3 OLED TV has a near-infinite contrast ratio of Inf :1, delivering deep inky blacks without distracting blooming or haloing around bright objects.
The TV’s high peak brightness of 527 cd/m² and excellent reflection handling ensure optimal performance in any room.
Gamers will be pleased with the low input lag tested at 5.5 ms at its native refresh rate of 120 Hz and superb 100% response time of 2.6 ms, keeping action clear and crisp.
The 4.2 speaker setup with Dolby Atmos spatial sound technology complements the stunning visuals with immersive audio.
The TV also has many inputs, boasting 4 HDMI 2.1 bandwidth ports and 3 USB slots. However, the aggressive ABL is distracting, and the TV lacks HDR10+ support.
- Read Full Review → : LG CX
LG CX
The LG CX OLED TV shatters assumptions that you need to be directly in front of it for the best picture. It’s unfortunate, then, that the TV is missing HDR10+ support. Still, it can handle anything from gaming to a candle-lit movie night.
True Score
91913Experts
968kCustomers
SAVE $203$1,499.99$1,296.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Fantastic Picture Quality
- Amazing Sound
- Fantastic Viewing Angles
- Superb Contrast Ratio
- 120Hz Refresh Rate
Reasons to Avoid
- Brightness Could Be Better
- Risk of Burn-In
- Missing HDR10+
Specifications
Backlight Type No Display Type OLED HDMI Inputs 4 HDMI Type HDMI 2.1 HDR Format Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Number of Audio Channels 2.2 Panel Type OLED Refresh Rate 120 Hz Screen size 48" Smart Platform webOS Speaker Output 40 Watts Sync Technology G-Sync VRR Yes All Specs
All Retailers
- $1,296.99$1,500Save $203
Availability
Not availableFree Shipping
Yes Availability
Free Shipping
Our Verdict
The LG CX OLED can handle whatever you throw at it, whether that’s gaming or a candle-lit movie night.
And while wide-viewing angles are usually a bane for most TVs, this one shatters all pre-determined assumptions that you need to be directly in front of it for the best picture.
Further, the TV also sports fantastic sound. It’s unfortunate, then, that the TV is missing HDR10+ support.
- Read Full Review → : Samsung QN95B Neo QLED TVSamsung
Samsung QN95B Neo QLED TV
Best for Bright Room
The Samsung QN95B Neo QLED TV offers high brightness, many inputs, and superb gaming performance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, full-featured 4K smart TV.
True Score
91988Experts
79256Customers
Cosmic WonderSAVE $1,457$2,297.99$840.91Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Outstanding brightness in HDR mode
With a tested brightness of 2268 cd/m2, this TV is near the top of all 4K TVs in its category. High brightness means it produces a clear, vibrant and dynamic picture even in well-lit rooms.
- Effective local dimming with great contrast and deep blacks
Its 110,000:1 effective contrast ratio in HDR mode is higher than nearly all other QLED backlit models, meaning black areas will be truly black and not washed-out in high-contrast scenes.
- Better motion handling than most competitors, great for PC gaming
The QN95B Neo’s 144-Hz refresh rate matches or exceeds 90% of the TVs in its class. Input lag is under 10 ms in RTINGS testing, also putting it in the top third of all TVs in its category.
- It also offers chroma 4:4:4 support so it works well as a PC monitor.
This allows clear, stable text display. The 144 Hz refresh rate also works well with PC graphics card outputs.
Reasons to Avoid
- Sub-par Picture quality
While the mini LED tech here works well, it can’t match the near-infinite contrast that OLED models offer. It is missing some shadow detail compared to top OLED competitors
- Somehwat convoluted user interface
Samsung’s UI is functional but more complex to use than some competing systems.
- Default mode appears oversaturated to some users
While it displays a wide color gamut, it tends to oversaturate warm colors, making a picture that can appear artificially vivid.
Specifications
Backlight Type Full-Array Display Type QLED HDMI Inputs 4 HDMI Type HDMI 2.1 HDR Format HDR10+ HomeKit Compatible No Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Number of Audio Channels 4.2.2 Panel Type QD-OLED Refresh Rate 120 Hz, 144 Hz Screen size 55", 65", 75", 85" Smart Platform Tizen Speaker Output 70 Watts Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR Yes Works With Remote Control, SmartThings, Wi-Fi All Specs
Test Results
Color Gamut % (DCI P3 xy) 94.70333333 Color Gamut % (DCI P3 uv) 94.75 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 xy) 67.27 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 uv) 77.38 Color Gamut % (sRGB) No Data Color Gamut % (Rec 709) 99.97 Color Gamut % (BT.2020) 75 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB) No Data Color Gamut % (BT.709) No Data Contrast Ratio (x:1) 110423 SDR Brightness (nits) 1934 HDR Brightness (nits) 2318 Input Lag (ms) 10.0 Response Time (ms) 7.3 Color Washout (Degrees) 38 Color Shift (Degrees) 40 Brightness Loss (Degrees) 45 Reflections (%) 2.4 Low-Freq Extension (Hz) 106.79 Freq Response StdDev @ 70db 2.78 Freq Response StdDev @ 80db 2.55 Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion @80db 0.239 Intermodulation Distortion @80db 0.29 EOTF (600 nit delta) 0.0438 EOTF (1000 nit delta) 0.0438 EOTF (4000 nit delta) 0.0392 All Specs
All Retailers
- $840.91$2,298Save $1,457
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
The QN95B offers great HDR-friendly brightness, tested to reach almost 3000 cd/m2 in Dynamic preset mode, and produces vivid HDR scenes. It has great reflection handling and deep blacks, with local dimming boosting contrast up to 110,423:1.
A sub-10-ms input lag and 144Hz refresh rate help gaming performance. Input options include 4 HDMI 2.1 ports housed in an external One Connect box.
The mini-LED technology and effective image processor deliver an excellent color gamut. The QN95B is an effective PC monitor with chroma 4:4:4 support for clear text.
Occasional blooming and a somewhat convoluted interface are downsides. Competing OLED TVs deliver deeper blacks and more detail in dark scenes. However, considering its overall performance, the QN95B remains a top choice among 4K TVs.
- Read Full Review → : LG G2 OLED TVLG
LG G2 OLED TV
Considering its fast response time, wide viewing angles, and excellent brightness and black levels, the LG G2 OLED TV is worth the premium price for movies and gaming. However, mediocre upscaling performance, aggressive ABL, and purple tints from bright reflections can be a nuisance.
True Score
919612Experts
893kCustomers
Cosmic WonderSAVE $122$419.90$298.00Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Outstanding picture quality
It is ideal for movie watching and gaming in dark settings due to its best-in-class and movie-night-worthy black levels. Additionally, its wide color gamut (with 98.58% coverage on the DCI P3 xy color space) ensures lifelike images and subtle shades, although some colors may appear slightly muted.
- Good brightness and outstanding contrast ratio
Daytime movie viewing is satisfactory with its moderate peak brightness of 590.54 nits, which is higher than 45% of our tested TVs. The TV achieves precise distinction between black and white tones due to its inf:1 contrast ratio (which is among the best tested), resulting in vibrant and detailed picture quality.
- Fast refresh rate and VRR support
You can experience ultra-smooth visuals during the most action-packed moments, courtesy of the impressive 120 Hz refresh rate. Plus, you won’t have to deal with unsightly screen tearing since it is compatible with VRR.
- Quick response time and low input lag
For avid gamers in pursuit of a sharper, more immersive experience, the 2.3 ms response time and tested low input lag (5.3 ms at 1080p) are particularly enticing. Moreover, the input lag is among the best out of all our certified tested TVs.
- Wide viewing angles
Family movie nights will be great due to its excellent off-center viewing, with colors washing out at 68°.
Reasons to Avoid
- Extra strong ABL
Noticeable brightness fluctuations caused by the automatic brightness limiter (ABL) in well-lit rooms can be off-putting while watching your favorite content.
- Visible purple hue
Even with the TV’s anti-reflective coating, strong light sources appear as purple tints, affecting color accuracy.
- Dissatisfactory upscaling performance
Screening older videos may not offer the visual appeal you seek since the TV‘s processor falls short in converting old 480p content into vivid 4K.
Specifications
Backlight Type Full-Array Display Type OLED HDMI Inputs 4 HDMI Type HDMI 2.1 HDR Format Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG HomeKit Compatible Yes LED Panel Type OLED Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Number of Audio Channels 4.2 Panel Type OLED Refresh Rate 120 Hz Screen size 55", 65", 77", 83" Smart Platform webOS Speaker Output 60 watts Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, G-Sync VRR Yes All Specs
Test Results
Color Gamut % (DCI P3 xy) 99.24 Color Gamut % (DCI P3 uv) 99.5 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 xy) 72.98 Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 uv) 78.2 Color Gamut % (sRGB) No Data Color Gamut % (Rec 709) 131.75 Color Gamut % (BT.2020) No Data Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB) No Data Color Gamut % (BT.709) No Data Contrast Ratio (x:1) No Data SDR Brightness (nits) 606 HDR Brightness (nits) 926 Input Lag (ms) 11.6 Response Time (ms) 2.3 Color Washout (Degrees) 68 Color Shift (Degrees) 25 Brightness Loss (Degrees) 68 Reflections (%) 1.4 Low-Freq Extension (Hz) 75.51 Freq Response StdDev @ 70db 4.65 Freq Response StdDev @ 80db 4.37 Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion @80db 0.648 Intermodulation Distortion @80db 1.06 EOTF (600 nit delta) 0.0086 EOTF (1000 nit delta) 0.004 EOTF (4000 nit delta) 0.0038 All Specs
All Retailers
- $298.00$420Save $122
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $369.99$500Save $130
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $1,696.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
Although the LG G2 OLED TV’s ABL causes brightness fluctuations, its peak brightness (590.54 nits) is excellent for lit rooms.
All four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1, which is perfect for connecting consoles, and the TV has movie-night-worthy black levels. However, despite the anti-reflective coating, bright lights appear as slightly purple tints.
The tested 2.3 ms response time and 120 Hz refresh rate breathe life into fast-paced gaming, while VRR prevents screen tearing. With an inf:1 contrast ratio, colors pop, but the processor is mediocre at upscaling 480p content.
The remote’s hassle-free point-and-play function and voice command help navigate the user-friendly WebOS software, viewing angles are ultra-wide (color washout at 68°), and the low input lag (5.3 ms at 1080p) ensures responsive gaming.
- Read Full Review → : SunbriteTV Veranda TV 3 4K AndroidSunbrite
SunbriteTV Veranda TV 3 4K Android
The SunbriteTV Veranda 3’s high-end pricing is justified by its durability and high resistance to weather elements. It is one of the most durable outdoor TVs on the market, but brighter and sharper alternatives are available.
True Score
91773Experts
1002Customers
Mixed Reviews$2,898.95Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great picture quality
Courtesy of a category-topping 99.82% coverage of the sRGB gamut, the Veranda TV 3 4K offers vivid visuals, and this, coupled with its 4K resolution, makes content clear and easy to watch.
- Average brightness, great contrast rating
With a brightness rating of 1000 nits, the Sunbrite TV Veranda 3 has a pretty average brightness level when compared to our certified, tested TVs, but it does get bright enough to maintain good clarity in well-lit environments. Its contrast ratio, however, tests in the upper half of tested TVs, as blacks are deep and inky.
- Rapid response time
Motion blur is severely limited on the Veranda TV 3 4K thanks to an impressive 8ms response time that places it near the top of the category.
- Exceptionally low input lag
The Veranda TV 3’s super low 8.6ms input lag makes it one of the most responsive displays in its category.
Reasons to Avoid
- Low refresh rate
The Veranda TV 3 has a super low 60Hz refresh rate, so it isn’t ideal for fast-action gaming.
- Can’t be placed on a stand
This TV is only designed to be mounted, and so it doesn’t include a stand
Specifications
Backlight Type Full-Array Display Type LED HDMI Inputs 4 HDR Format Dolby Vision LED Panel Type Quantum LED Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Refresh Rate 120 Hz Screen size 55", 65" Smart Platform Android TV Sync Technology No VRR No All Specs
Test Results
Color Gamut % (DCI P3 xy) No Data Color Gamut % (DCI P3 uv) No Data Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 xy) No Data Color Gamut % (Rec 2020 uv) No Data Color Gamut % (sRGB) 99.82 Color Gamut % (Rec 709) No Data Color Gamut % (BT.2020) No Data Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB) No Data Color Gamut % (BT.709) No Data Contrast Ratio (x:1) 3631 SDR Brightness (nits) 618 HDR Brightness (nits) 723 Input Lag (ms) 13.9 Response Time (ms) No Data Color Washout (Degrees) No Data Color Shift (Degrees) No Data Brightness Loss (Degrees) No Data Reflections (%) No Data Low-Freq Extension (Hz) No Data Freq Response StdDev @ 70db No Data Freq Response StdDev @ 80db No Data Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion @80db No Data Intermodulation Distortion @80db No Data EOTF (600 nit delta) No Data EOTF (1000 nit delta) No Data EOTF (4000 nit delta) No Data All Specs
All Retailers
- $2,898.95
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $3,648.95
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
With a tested 1000-nit HDR brightness rating and a 99.82% coverage of the sRGB color gamut, the Sunbrite Veranda 3 a middle of the road choice as the TV gets just bright enough to remain easily visible in a bright outdoor setting.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a wide port selection, only consisting of three HDMI and two USB ports. It also boasts a good contrast ratio of 6000:1 for deep blacks and bright whites and a rapid 8ms response time that limits motion blur.
Its wide 178° x 178° viewing angles allow you to view from the side. Overall, the Veranda Series 3 TV’s 1000-nit brightness level is average for outdoor TVs, but its high IP55 resistance protects from weather elements.
Beginner’s Guide to Dumb TVs
What is a Dumb TV?
A dumb TV is a television that doesn’t feature built-in internet or any other kind of smart features. Before the advent of smart TVs, they were the only type of television on the market, but today, you’re limited to only a few models.
With that said, if you’re after a dumb TV, you’ll want to know when do these TVs go on sale and when is the best time to buy a TV. Even if you’re just after a strong TV antenna, you’ll want to get these at a discount.
As mentioned, they offer the most basic features a TV could provide, which is better than an old CRT TV any day. But at the same time, you’ll be protected from personalized ads, third-party selling of your data, and continuous monitoring of what, when, and how you consume content. This way, you can have a solid TV experience without worrying about these additional privacy complications.
Dumb TV vs Other TVs
With smart TVs becoming a standard offering today, the market has almost completely phased out older, non-smart models. Dumb TVs, unlike smart ones, rely on cable service providers or an external streaming device, like Fire TV or Chromecast, to stream content rather than having an operating system and built-in streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube.
Since you can connect them to any app or platform on the internet, Smart TVs have completely altered how we consume content. In contrast, dumb TVs don’t connect to the internet and are still in demand by people who want to enjoy their TV experience in an old-fashioned way. This means they want nothing to do with unwelcome tracking and extra features like voice control, app-based remote control, and 4K resolution.
There’s no denying that you’ll get superior features with a smart TV, like the best Android TVs, but some people just don’t prefer the extra bells and whistles of smart technology. Moreover, you can always attach a Roku streaming stick or Fire TV if you want to stream content.
How a Dumb TV Works
Though most people dismiss dumb TVs as items of the past, they haven’t completely fallen by the wayside. These TVs are less complicated options as compared to their newer and smarter alternatives.
Since they lack smart functionality and cannot be connected to the internet, you’ll have to subscribe to a package provided by a cable service provider.
Some people find dumb TVs more convenient than dealing with smart TVs’ convoluted operating systems and interfaces. Plus, security and privacy risks are real. Internet-equipped devices use Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) to keep a tab on what you’re watching. Additionally, they have integrated cameras, giving enough room for hackers to spy on you.
Surfing through channels on a dumb TV is a straightforward affair as it requires just using the remote control to enter a number to view your favorite cable TV shows or local channels. Conversely, many smart TVs are riddled with poor interfaces requiring multiple button presses to type a single word.
With dumb TVs, you don’t risk exposing conversations with a mic-enabled system, as every aspect of watching TV is discreet. Plus, you’ll never run into glitches with a dumb TV unless there’s an issue from your cable provider’s end. Dumb TVs aren’t associated with content providers like YouTube and Hulu, but if you want to consume online content shows from a streaming service, you can attach a streaming device or connect your laptop to one of the HDMI ports.
Why should you buy a Dumb TV?
As the advancement of technology makes our lives easier with smarter alternatives, why do people still want to opt for televisions with fewer capabilities? The answer is simple—more technology doesn’t always equate to simpler living. It can bring unnecessary complications that people don’t want to deal with, making non-smart or dumb versions a better choice.
Are Dumb TVs Worth Buying?
- You Prefer a Reliable TV Set: Since dumb TVs don’t have an underlying operating system that can crash at any time, they are considered a reliable option compared to Smart TVs.
- You’re Concerned About Security: You can’t connect dumb TVs to the internet, which means these devices don’t have access to other devices on your home networks, nor do they have cameras or mics for hackers to spy and snoop in on your conversations. This way, your private data is always protected, and you don’t become a victim of personalized ads. If you already have a smart TV, you can dumb it down by not connecting it to the internet.
- You Like the Simplicity of Dumb TVs: You may just want to stick with what you already know instead of jumping in on a trend where everybody’s learning how to operate Smart TVs. Note that the learning curve for Smart TVs can feel steep for some people, proving unnecessary if you just want to watch a simple TV show.
Why a Dumb TV May Not Be for You
- You Prefer 4K Screen Resolution and Advanced Display Technology: Chances are you’ll find a dumb TV that offers only 1080p or 720p resolution. If the screen resolution is your priority and you want a 4K TV, countless smart TV options like the best Hisense TV are available on the market. Similarly, you won’t find any OLED and QLED dumb TVs in the market.
- Smart TV Features Appeal to You: Features like web browsing, gaming, voice control, and scrolling on social media may be reason enough for you to upgrade to a smart TV.
How Long Will a Dumb TV Last?
The lifespan of a dumb TV depends on how frequently it’s used, how well it’s maintained, its quality, and above all, its display technology—LCD, LED, OLED, and QLED.
An LCD TV packs around 50,000 to 60,000 hours of viewing and can last for nearly two decades, but it’ll mostly stop functioning after a decade due to other reasons.
An LED TV offers between 40,000 and 100,000 hours of viewing at maximum or near-maximum brightness. Even with heavy viewing, these TVs will work properly for at least 5 to 7 years, and over a decade with moderate or low usage. But beyond that period, you’ll notice a decrease in picture quality.
OLED TVs perform better than LED displays but have a limited lifespan. After about 7 to 10 years of use at optimal settings, you may see a notable decrease in performance and image quality.
Lastly, QLEDs (Quantum light-emitting diodes) offer exceptional picture quality even after years of extensive use. At optimal settings, these TVs will last you between 7 to 10 years, or even longer.
To increase the lifespan of your TV, turn it off when you’re not watching anything instead of keeping it on standby mode. Additionally, a well-ventilated stand that provides approximately four inches of space between the TV and the walls will go a long way in ensuring your TV doesn’t overheat and get damaged.
Ash and dust can also reduce your TV’s lifespan, so you must regularly clean it to prevent unwanted build-ups. And remember that the higher your TV’s brightness, the more power it will use, so adjust your brightness accordingly to ensure it lasts longer.
How to Choose the Best Dumb TV
Now that you’ve decided to opt for a dumb TV, there are several factors, such as resolution, display technology, budget, and more, to consider. Let’s look at these below.
Dumb TV Key Factors
- What Display Technology Do You Want?
There are four common display technologies in the market — LCD, LED, OLED, and QLED. Most dumb TVs in the market currently will feature either an LCD or LED display.
LCD is short for liquid crystal display, and these displays utilize fluorescent tubes to produce light and brighten the picture. These TVs are low on cost, but the picture quality on these is among the lowest.
LED (light-emitting diode) also depends on a liquid crystal display, but it uses light-emitting diodes to produce lights. This technology leads to superior picture quality and sharper images than standard LCDs.
Next, you have OLED TVs that use organic LEDs instead of backlighting. Each OLED subpixel creates its own light. These displays achieve a state of absolute black which is not attainable with LED displays.
Lastly, QLED (Quantum-dot LED) displays have traditional LCD panels that are lit by LEDs. A quantum dot layer fills the gap between the LCD panel and the backlight to create more saturated colors, but it’s not backlight-free like OLED displays. QLED displays are significantly brighter than OLEDs and are an excellent choice for sunny spaces that receive a lot of ambient light. But in terms of picture quality and realism, OLEDs usually perform better.
- What Screen Resolution Do You Prefer?
Resolution is the number of pixels that compose a picture on the TV screen. The greater the pixel count, the higher the quality and sharpness of the visuals onscreen.
At HD resolution (720p), you have 921,600 pixels, which increases to 2 million with Full HD (1080p). But with 4K, the pixels bump up to 8 million, which means all the visuals will have incredible clarity despite the size of the display.
You’ll not find dumb TVs with 4K resolution in the market, so your options are limited to HD and Full HD resolution instead of the 4K resolution that most smart TVs offer today.
- How Many HDMI Ports Do You Require?
The number of ports you need depends on how many devices you plan to connect to it. You’ll need HDMI ports to connect the sound system and your game consoles, like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch, if you’re into gaming. You should get a TV with as many HDMI ports as you will need, but this isn’t always possible. You may also want to check if the TV has a USB port for connecting external hard drives.
- What About Screen Size?
When it comes to the screen size of a dumb TV, you’re limited once again. There are no 75- or 85-inch TVs in the market without smart features.
With dumb TVs, you’re looking at sizes between 23 inches and 55 inches. You should also determine screen size based on how close you sit to the TV. A general rule to follow is that the distance between you and the TV must be three times more than the screen’s height.
- What’s Your Budget?
Dumb TVs are usually budget-friendly and fall between the price range of $150 to $400. Though you’ll have to settle for a small screen at low price points, on the upper end, you’ll generally find features like an LED display, a larger screen size (55 inches), integrated speakers, and Full HD resolution, depending on the brand.
Lesser-known brands manufacture most non-smart or dumb TVs, but that doesn’t make them inferior in any way.