Remember that old cable bill? The one that seemed to climb higher every month, packed with channels you never even glanced at? I do! I remember finally taking the plunge, canceling cable, and feeling that sweet, sweet sense of freedom. But then came the daunting task of figuring out how to actually watch my favorite shows. That’s when the quest for the perfect TV began – one that could seamlessly handle streaming apps, deliver stunning picture quality, and ultimately make cutting the cord a truly enjoyable experience.
Choosing the right television can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating the world of smart features, refresh rates, and HDR capabilities. Finding one that truly shines as a hub for all your streaming needs is key, and that’s why we’ve created this guide to help you discover the best tvs for cord cutting. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from essential features to top-rated models, so you can finally ditch cable and enjoy all your favorite content without breaking the bank.
We’ll review the best tvs for cord cutting shortly, but first, check out some relevant products on Amazon:
Cutting the Cord: Finding Your Perfect Streaming Companion
So, you’re thinking about ditching cable? Smart move! You’re not alone; millions are making the switch to streaming every year, escaping those hefty monthly bills and finally saying goodbye to channel packages crammed with stuff you never watch. According to recent studies, over 50% of US households now subscribe to streaming services, showing that the future of entertainment is definitely online. The possibilities feel endless, but where do you even start? The first thing you’ll need is the right screen to enjoy all that glorious, affordable content.
Choosing the right television for streaming can feel a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Think of it like finding the perfect pair of shoes – comfort and style are key, and you want something that fits your lifestyle. With so many models boasting different features, it’s about pinpointing what you need for the ultimate streaming experience. Are you a movie buff craving cinematic picture quality, or a sports fanatic needing a lightning-fast refresh rate?
This guide is here to help you navigate the world of smart TVs and find the best tvs for cord cutting, tailored to your individual needs and viewing habits. We’ll break down the key features to consider, explain the jargon in plain English, and recommend some top-performing models that consistently deliver a fantastic streaming experience. Consider this your friendly guide to a stress-free transition to the world of streaming.
We’ll cover everything from resolution and refresh rates to smart TV platforms and connectivity options, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. By the end of this, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a television that not only meets your needs but also elevates your streaming enjoyment. Get ready to say hello to a world of endless entertainment, and goodbye to those frustrating cable bills!
Top 5 Best Tvs For Cord Cutting
LG C3 OLED
The LG C3 OLED is a visual masterpiece, plain and simple. Seriously, the inky blacks and vibrant colors of OLED technology are a game-changer, making everything from nature documentaries to action movies pop off the screen. And with its wide viewing angles, everyone in the room gets a fantastic picture. Plus, LG’s webOS smart platform is intuitive and packed with streaming apps, so you can ditch cable and dive straight into your favorite content with ease.
Beyond the stunning picture quality, the C3 boasts impressive gaming features like a super-low input lag and HDMI 2.1 ports, perfect for next-gen consoles. It also includes a Filmmaker Mode, allowing you to watch movies and shows exactly as the director intended. It’s a premium choice, but if you value top-tier picture quality and a seamless smart TV experience, the LG C3 OLED is worth the investment.
Sony XR-65A80L
The Sony XR-65A80L is another amazing OLED TV that brings a cinematic experience right into your living room. Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR does some serious magic with color and contrast, making images look incredibly realistic and detailed. The sound is pretty impressive too, thanks to Sony’s Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, which actually vibrates the screen to create sound that seems to come directly from the action.
The built-in Google TV platform is smooth and user-friendly, offering access to pretty much every streaming service you could want. Voice control via Google Assistant is a breeze, letting you search for shows and adjust settings without even lifting a finger. It’s a fantastic option for cinephiles and anyone who appreciates a premium viewing experience with exceptional picture and sound.
Samsung QN90C Neo QLED
If you need a bright TV that can handle a sun-drenched room, the Samsung QN90C Neo QLED is a fantastic choice. Its Mini LED backlighting technology delivers incredible brightness and contrast, even in the brightest of environments. Colors are vibrant and punchy, and the picture is sharp and detailed, thanks to Samsung’s Quantum Processor.
The Tizen smart platform is loaded with features and apps, and its sleek design will look great in any living room. It’s also packed with gaming features, including HDMI 2.1 ports and a low input lag, making it a great choice for gamers. While OLED is often preferred for dark rooms, the QN90C Neo QLED is the king of bright rooms, offering exceptional picture quality and a robust smart TV experience.
Hisense U8K
The Hisense U8K offers incredible value for its price. It delivers impressive picture quality with vibrant colors, great contrast, and solid brightness, thanks to its Mini-LED backlighting. It also supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for a dynamic viewing experience, ensuring you’re getting the most out of HDR content.
With Google TV built-in, accessing your favorite streaming services is a breeze, and the interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. The U8K also offers good gaming features, including HDMI 2.1 ports and variable refresh rate (VRR) support. If you’re looking for a TV that delivers a lot of bang for your buck, the Hisense U8K is definitely worth considering.
TCL 6-Series (R646)
The TCL 6-Series (R646) continues to be a strong contender for cord-cutters, offering excellent performance at a competitive price point. The Mini-LED backlighting provides impressive brightness and contrast, creating a vibrant and engaging picture. Quantum Dot technology further enhances color accuracy, making everything look more realistic.
The built-in Google TV platform provides access to a wide range of streaming apps, and the user interface is simple to navigate. The 6-Series also features HDMI 2.1 ports and a 120Hz refresh rate, making it a solid choice for gamers. It’s a great all-around TV that delivers excellent picture quality, smart features, and gaming capabilities, all at a price that won’t break the bank.
Why You Still Need a TV (Even When Cutting the Cord!)
Cutting the cord doesn’t mean abandoning your entertainment center; it simply means ditching expensive cable contracts for more affordable and customizable streaming options. You still need a device to actually see all that great content, and that’s where a TV comes in! Imagine gathering the family for movie night, but everyone’s huddled around a tiny laptop screen. Or trying to follow a fast-paced sports game on your phone while also trying to cook dinner. A TV provides that big-screen, immersive experience that makes watching your favorite shows and movies truly enjoyable.
Think of it this way: the content you’re accessing through streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube TV is like a beautiful painting. You wouldn’t want to display that masterpiece on a postage stamp, would you? You’d want a canvas worthy of its beauty. A good TV, especially one with features designed for streaming, serves as that canvas. “Best TVs for cord cutting” often come equipped with built-in streaming apps, intuitive interfaces, and excellent picture quality, making it easier than ever to access and enjoy your favorite content without cable.
Beyond the pure enjoyment factor, a dedicated TV also frees up your other devices. No more tying up your laptop for hours just to watch a show, or constantly battling for screen time with other family members. With a smart TV as your dedicated streaming hub, everyone can enjoy their favorite content without interfering with each other’s devices or activities. Plus, many smart TVs now integrate with smart home ecosystems, allowing you to control your lights, thermostat, and more, all from the comfort of your couch.
Ultimately, cutting the cord is about embracing a smarter, more flexible way to consume content. But to truly maximize the benefits of streaming, you need a high-quality TV to bring that content to life. Investing in one of the “best TVs for cord cutting” isn’t about clinging to old technology; it’s about upgrading your viewing experience and creating a central entertainment hub for the whole family. It’s the foundation upon which your cord-cutting journey is built, ensuring you enjoy all your favorite shows and movies in the best possible way.
Smart Features That Elevate Your Cord-Cutting Experience
Alright, so you’re ditching cable! Awesome! But to truly make the most of it, you need a TV that’s smart, and I’m not just talking about knowing the capital of France. We’re talking about features that seamlessly integrate with your streaming services, making your life easier and your viewing experience smoother. Imagine turning on your TV and it already knows you want to watch the latest episode of “Ted Lasso” on Apple TV+. That’s the power of smart features.
Think about how often you juggle remotes to switch between your streaming device, your soundbar, and your TV. A smart TV with a user-friendly interface like Roku TV or Android TV can streamline all of that. They often have universal remotes that control all your devices, and voice control capabilities mean you can just ask your TV to play something without even lifting a finger.
Don’t underestimate the importance of app availability. Check if the TV you’re considering has all the streaming apps you use, from Netflix and Hulu to niche services like Crunchyroll or BritBox. Some TVs might have limited app stores, leaving you scrambling to find workarounds or missing out on your favorite content.
Finally, consider features like screen mirroring and casting. These let you easily share content from your phone or tablet to your TV. Perfect for showing off vacation photos, playing mobile games on a bigger screen, or even sharing presentations during work meetings. It adds another layer of versatility to your cord-cutting setup.
Budget-Friendly Gems: Affordable TVs for Cord Cutters
Cord-cutting is all about saving money, right? So, the last thing you want is to blow your budget on a fancy TV. The good news is you don’t have to! There are plenty of amazing TVs out there that offer excellent picture quality, smart features, and overall value without breaking the bank. Think of it this way: the money you save on cable can go towards upgrading your streaming subscriptions and getting an even better experience.
When looking for affordable TVs, focus on the essentials. Do you really need an 8K TV when most streaming content is still in 4K or even 1080p? Probably not. Stick to TVs with a good 4K picture and a decent refresh rate. Pay attention to the picture settings, too. A TV with adjustable settings can look just as good as a more expensive model if you take the time to calibrate it properly.
One trick is to look for slightly older models. TVs that are a year or two old often get discounted significantly, even though they’re still perfectly capable of delivering a great viewing experience. Retailers need to clear out old inventory to make room for the latest models, so take advantage of those deals! It’s like finding hidden treasure in the clearance aisle.
Don’t forget to read reviews! Just because a TV is cheap doesn’t mean it’s bad. Plenty of affordable TVs have earned rave reviews for their picture quality, features, and value. Do your research, compare different models, and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. You might be surprised at what you can find for under $500.
Optimizing Your Home Network for Seamless Streaming
Let’s be honest, nothing’s more frustrating than a buffering screen when you’re trying to binge-watch your favorite show. To avoid the dreaded spinning wheel of doom, you need a strong and reliable home network. Think of your network as the highway that delivers your streaming content. If it’s congested or poorly maintained, you’re going to experience traffic jams, which in this case, means buffering.
First things first, check your internet speed. Streaming 4K content requires a decent amount of bandwidth. Most streaming services recommend at least 25 Mbps for 4K streaming. Run a speed test to see if your current plan is up to snuff. If not, consider upgrading to a faster plan. It might cost a little more, but it’s worth it for a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience.
Consider upgrading your router. An older router might not be able to handle the demands of multiple devices streaming simultaneously. A newer router with features like dual-band Wi-Fi and MU-MIMO can improve your network’s performance and ensure that your TV gets the bandwidth it needs. Imagine your router as a traffic cop, directing the flow of data to the right devices.
If your TV is far from your router, consider using a wired connection. Ethernet cables provide a more stable and reliable connection than Wi-Fi, especially for bandwidth-intensive activities like streaming 4K video. Think of it as taking the express lane instead of navigating the local streets. Powerline adapters are also a great option if running an Ethernet cable isn’t feasible.
Antenna Options for Local Channels: Free TV is Still a Thing!
Don’t forget about good old-fashioned over-the-air (OTA) television! While streaming has taken over the world, you can still get free access to local channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox with a simple antenna. Think of it as a bonus on top of your streaming subscriptions – a way to access live news, sports, and local programming without paying a monthly fee. It’s like finding free money in your couch cushions!
Choosing the right antenna depends on your location and distance from the broadcast towers. An indoor antenna might work if you live close to the towers and have a clear line of sight. However, if you live further away or have obstructions like trees or buildings, you might need an outdoor antenna for better reception. Websites like AntennaWeb can help you determine which type of antenna is best for your area.
Consider a DVR for your antenna. A digital video recorder (DVR) allows you to record OTA programs and watch them later. This is perfect for recording your favorite local news broadcasts or sporting events so you can watch them at your convenience. It’s like having your own personal TiVo for free TV.
Remember to rescan your TV channels periodically. Broadcast towers sometimes change frequencies, so you need to rescan your TV to pick up the new channels. It’s a simple process that usually involves going to your TV’s settings menu and selecting the “channel scan” option. It’s like tuning your radio to a new station to find your favorite music.
Best Tvs For Cord Cutting: A Friendly Buying Guide
Hey there, future cord-cutter! Thinking of ditching cable and embracing the glorious world of streaming? Awesome! One of the most important pieces of the puzzle is, of course, your TV. Choosing the right one can feel a bit overwhelming, with all the different brands, features, and jargon flying around. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you navigate the TV landscape and find the perfect screen for your streaming adventures. This isn’t just about getting a TV; it’s about setting up your perfect home entertainment hub for the cord-cutting life. Let’s dive in and find the best tvs for cord cutting!
Here’s a breakdown of the key things you should consider before you make that purchase:
Size Matters, But So Does Your Space
Alright, let’s talk size. It’s tempting to go for the biggest TV you can afford, and I get it! Who wouldn’t want a massive screen dominating their living room? But hold on a second. Before you max out your credit card, consider the size of your room and how far away you’ll be sitting. Too big, and you’ll be craning your neck like you’re at the front row of a tennis match.
Think about the distance between your couch and where the TV will be. There are plenty of online calculators that can help you determine the ideal screen size based on your viewing distance. As a general rule of thumb, a good starting point is to multiply your viewing distance (in inches) by 0.84 to get the ideal screen diagonal size in inches. Don’t forget to factor in the aesthetics! A huge TV might look out of place in a smaller room, making it feel cramped and overwhelming.
Resolution: 4K is King (and Maybe Soon 8K?)
When it comes to resolution, 4K is pretty much the standard these days, and for good reason. It offers a stunningly sharp and detailed picture that will make your favorite shows and movies look absolutely incredible. With so much streaming content available in 4K, you’ll want to make sure your TV can handle it. Trust me, once you’ve experienced the clarity of 4K, it’s hard to go back.
Now, you might be wondering about 8K. It’s definitely the next big thing, promising even more detail than 4K. However, there’s not a ton of 8K content available just yet, and 8K TVs are still pretty pricey. Unless you’re a serious early adopter and have deep pockets, I’d say stick with 4K for now. You’ll still get a fantastic picture, and you’ll save a good chunk of change. For most cord-cutters, a high-quality 4K TV is absolutely the sweet spot and is among the best tvs for cord cutting.
Smart Features: Because Nobody Likes a Dumb TV
In the age of streaming, a “smart” TV is a must-have. These TVs come with built-in operating systems that allow you to access streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more, right from your TV. No need for separate streaming devices! Different brands use different operating systems, such as Roku TV, Android TV/Google TV, or webOS (LG).
Think about which operating system you prefer. Do you like the simple, customizable interface of Roku? Or maybe you prefer the vast app selection and Google Assistant integration of Android TV/Google TV? webOS is known for its sleek design and intuitive user experience. Spend some time researching the different platforms and choose the one that best suits your needs. The goal is to have a seamless streaming experience without constant buffering or crashing. Finding the best tvs for cord cutting means finding the smartest ones!
HDR: See Colors Like Never Before
HDR, or High Dynamic Range, is a technology that makes the colors on your TV screen pop. It expands the range of colors and contrast, resulting in a more realistic and vibrant picture. Imagine watching a sunset with rich oranges, deep reds, and brilliant yellows – that’s HDR in action!
Not all HDR is created equal, though. You might see terms like HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Dolby Vision is generally considered the superior format, as it offers dynamic metadata that adjusts the HDR settings scene by scene. HDR10 is a more common, open standard. HLG is primarily used for broadcast content. Ideally, you want a TV that supports multiple HDR formats to ensure compatibility with all your streaming sources. It really enhances the visual experience, making your content come alive.
Connectivity: Ports Galore!
Even in a world of wireless streaming, you’ll still need to connect devices to your TV. So, make sure your TV has enough ports for all your needs. HDMI ports are essential for connecting game consoles, Blu-ray players, and soundbars. Look for TVs with HDMI 2.1 ports, as they support the latest features like 4K at 120Hz, which is important for gamers.
Also, consider the number of USB ports you’ll need. These are useful for connecting external hard drives, flash drives, or charging your devices. An Ethernet port is a good idea if you prefer a wired internet connection for more stable streaming. And don’t forget about audio outputs for connecting your sound system. Having enough ports ensures that your TV can easily integrate with all your other devices.
Sound Quality: Don’t Settle for Tinny Audio
While a great picture is important, don’t neglect the sound quality of your TV. Let’s be honest, most built-in TV speakers are pretty underwhelming. They often lack bass and can sound thin and tinny. If you want a truly immersive viewing experience, you’ll likely want to invest in a separate sound system.
A soundbar is a popular option, as it’s relatively affordable and easy to set up. You can also go for a full surround sound system for a more cinematic experience. If you’re not ready to upgrade your audio right away, look for a TV with decent built-in speakers. Read reviews and see what other users are saying about the sound quality. But really, the best tvs for cord cutting often need some help in the audio department, so plan accordingly!
Budget: Finding the Sweet Spot
Last but not least, let’s talk about budget. TVs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping so you don’t get overwhelmed. Remember that you don’t necessarily need to buy the most expensive TV to get a great picture.
Focus on the features that are most important to you, such as resolution, smart features, and HDR support. You can often find excellent TVs in the mid-range price bracket that offer a great balance of performance and value. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices from different retailers. Look for deals and sales, especially during holidays. Finding the best tvs for cord cutting doesn’t have to break the bank! A little research can go a long way in landing a fantastic TV at a price that fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What screen size TV should I get for cord-cutting?
Choosing the right TV size really depends on how far you typically sit from the screen. A good rule of thumb is to measure the distance in inches and then divide that number by 1.5 to find the ideal screen size. So, if you sit about 8 feet (96 inches) away, a 65-inch TV would be a great fit! However, it’s also important to consider your personal preference – some people like a more immersive experience with a larger screen, while others prefer a more compact setup.
Think about the space you have available, too. A massive TV might look impressive, but it won’t be enjoyable if it overwhelms your viewing area. It’s better to err on the side of a slightly smaller screen that provides a comfortable and clear picture without straining your eyes. You can always go bigger with your next upgrade!
What features are most important for a cord-cutting TV?
When you’re ditching cable, the smart features of your TV become super important. You’ll want to look for a TV with a user-friendly operating system, like Roku TV, Google TV, or Fire TV. These platforms offer easy access to all the streaming apps you’ll be using, such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and many more. Make sure the TV you choose has access to the apps you use most frequently!
Beyond the operating system, look for TVs with built-in Wi-Fi and plenty of HDMI ports. Good Wi-Fi ensures a smooth streaming experience without constant buffering. Extra HDMI ports allow you to connect devices like game consoles, Blu-ray players, or streaming sticks, giving you even more flexibility. Some TVs also offer features like voice control, which can make navigating menus and finding content even easier.
Do I really need a 4K TV for cord-cutting?
While you don’t absolutely need a 4K TV for cord-cutting, it’s definitely worth considering! Most streaming services offer a growing library of content in 4K resolution, so you’ll be able to enjoy a much sharper and more detailed picture if your TV supports it. Think of it like upgrading from standard definition to HD – once you see the difference, it’s hard to go back!
Even if all the content you watch isn’t in 4K, a 4K TV can still improve your viewing experience. Many 4K TVs have upscaling technology that enhances the picture quality of lower-resolution content, making it look better than it would on a non-4K TV. Plus, 4K TVs are becoming more affordable, so it’s a smart investment for the future.
What about HDR (High Dynamic Range)? Is that important?
Absolutely! HDR is a game-changer when it comes to picture quality. It expands the range of colors and contrast that a TV can display, resulting in images that are more vibrant, realistic, and immersive. You’ll notice richer colors, deeper blacks, and brighter highlights, making everything you watch more visually stunning.
Many streaming services are now offering content in HDR, so if you want to get the most out of your cord-cutting experience, choosing a TV that supports HDR is highly recommended. Look for TVs that support HDR10 or Dolby Vision, which are the most common HDR formats. Just be aware that HDR performance can vary between TVs, so reading reviews is crucial.
Are OLED TVs worth the extra cost for cord-cutting?
OLED TVs definitely come with a higher price tag, but for many viewers, the picture quality is worth the investment. OLED technology delivers perfect blacks, incredible contrast, and wide viewing angles, making it a fantastic choice for movies, TV shows, and gaming. If picture quality is your top priority, an OLED TV will not disappoint.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can still get a great cord-cutting experience with a high-quality LED TV. Modern LED TVs with features like local dimming and quantum dots can offer excellent picture quality at a more affordable price point. Ultimately, it comes down to balancing your budget with your desired level of picture quality.
I’m concerned about buffering issues when streaming. What should I look for in a TV?
Buffering issues can be incredibly frustrating, but fortunately, there are a few things you can look for in a TV to minimize the problem. First and foremost, make sure the TV has a strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection. Look for TVs that support the latest Wi-Fi standards (like Wi-Fi 6) for faster speeds and better performance.
If possible, consider connecting your TV to your router using an Ethernet cable. A wired connection is generally more stable and faster than Wi-Fi, which can help prevent buffering, especially when streaming high-resolution content. Also, make sure your internet service plan is sufficient for your streaming needs.
How important is the TV’s sound quality? Should I plan on getting a soundbar?
The built-in sound quality of TVs can vary widely. While some TVs have decent speakers that provide adequate sound for casual viewing, many fall short when it comes to delivering a truly immersive audio experience. If you’re a movie buff or appreciate high-quality audio, you’ll likely want to invest in a soundbar.
A good soundbar can significantly enhance your listening experience, providing clearer dialogue, richer bass, and a wider soundstage. Many soundbars also come with features like Dolby Atmos, which creates a more immersive surround sound effect. Consider your budget and how important sound quality is to you when deciding whether to add a soundbar to your cord-cutting setup.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – your guide to finding the best TVs for cord cutting! We’ve explored features, looked at sizes, and hopefully, demystified the jargon a little. Cutting the cord can feel like a big step, but with the right TV, it’s an incredibly rewarding one. Imagine saying goodbye to bloated cable bills and hello to a world of streaming freedom, all on a beautiful, crystal-clear display. Doesn’t that sound amazing?
Ultimately, the perfect TV is the one that best fits your needs and budget. Don’t overthink it! Armed with this knowledge, you’re now empowered to choose a TV that unlocks a world of entertainment tailored just for you. Go forth, explore, and get ready to experience TV in a whole new way. Your perfect streaming setup awaits!