Smart TVs

How does a smart TV work?

A smart TV basically works like a regular television, but it also has its own operating system such as Android TV or Google TV. Through that platform you install apps, stream series and films, and browse the internet, all without separate boxes or cables.

The TV connects to your home network via Wi-Fi or an ethernet cable, after which you have instant access to thousands of apps and services.

You control a smart TV with the included remote, which often has a built-in microphone for voice control. That way you can search for a film with your voice, adjust the volume or open an app. Many smart TVs also support Google Assistant or Alexa, letting you integrate the television into your smart home. You can also easily cast content from your phone or tablet, for example via Chromecast or AirPlay.

Why choose a smart TV?

The main reason to choose a smart TV is convenience. You no longer need a separate media player, TV stick or set-top box to stream, because all the apps are already built into the television itself.

That saves cables, space and the hassle of extra remotes. On top of that, modern smart TVs work smoothly with your smartphone: you can cast a video, share photos on the big screen or use your phone as a remote.

A smart TV also offers advantages when it comes to updates and future-proofing. Manufacturers regularly release software updates that add new features and improve security. Smart TVs are also getting better at personalising recommendations based on your viewing habits, so you find what you want to watch faster.

Whether you're looking for a 4K TV for razor-sharp images or a compact model for the bedroom: the smart features make everyday use noticeably more enjoyable.

What's the difference between a smart TV and a regular TV?

The biggest difference is in what they can do. A regular TV only receives a signal via an antenna, cable or external source such as a media player, and shows that image on the screen.

A smart TV does that too, but it also has its own operating system that connects you directly to the internet. That lets you open apps, stream videos, listen to music and even play games without any extra equipment.

Another important difference is the controls. Where a regular TV limits you to zapping between channels, a smart TV lets you navigate a clear interface with tiles, menus and search functions. Many models also offer voice control, so you can find the right content with a simple command.

A regular TV works just fine as a display, but a smart TV is a full-fledged platform that makes your viewing experience far more versatile and comfortable.

Various sizes of smart televisions

Smart TVs come in a wide range of screen sizes, so there's always one that fits your space and viewing distance. A smaller screen is ideal for a bedroom or kitchen, while a larger size turns your living room into a home cinema. Below you'll find the most common sizes and where they work best.

• 32 to 43 inch: these compact sizes fit perfectly in a bedroom, study or kitchen. With a small smart TV you get a comfortable, sharp picture at a short viewing distance, without the screen dominating the room.
• 50 to 55 inch: the most popular size for the average living room. A 55 inch TV offers an excellent balance between experience and space, especially at a viewing distance of two to three meters.
• 58 to 65 inch: if you want to go a step bigger for extra impact with movies, series and sports, then a 65 inch TV is a popular choice. This size fills more of your field of view and makes the picture noticeably more immersive.
• 70 to 75 inch: ideal for anyone looking for a true home cinema experience. A 75 inch TV comes into its own best in a spacious living room where you can sit far enough away.
• 85 to 100 inch: the largest sizes are made for maximum impact. With a 100 inch TV you literally fill an entire wall and create an overwhelming viewing experience you have to see to believe.

The right size depends on your viewing distance, the size of your space and your personal preference. As a rule of thumb: the bigger the screen, the more you get drawn into the picture. Not sure about the ideal size? Then check out our guide on viewing distance and TV size to find the best match.

Panel types of smart TVs

The panel type of your smart TV largely determines how the image looks: from color reproduction and brightness to contrast and black level. Each type has its own strengths, and which panel suits you best depends on your viewing conditions and what you find important.

OLED

An OLED TV uses millions of self-illuminating pixels that can switch on and off individually, giving you a perfect deep black and virtually infinite contrast. Colors look exceptionally true to life, and the image stays consistent from any viewing angle. That makes OLED the favorite choice for movie lovers and anyone looking for the highest image quality, especially in a darkened or dark room.

QLED

An QLED TV uses a Quantum Dot layer that delivers a high color volume and powerful peak brightness. As a result, colors stay vivid and the image bright, even in a well-lit living room with lots of ambient light. QLED is an excellent choice for sports, entertainment and everyday use, because the panel performs versatilely under varying lighting conditions.

Mini LED

Mini LED is an evolution of traditional LED backlighting, in which thousands of tiny LEDs precisely control the screen in zones. The result is stronger contrast with more detail in dark scenes, while bright areas stay vibrant and sparkling. Mini LED TVs offer an attractive middle ground between standard LED and OLED, especially if you value contrast highly without stepping into the highest price range.

LED

An LED TV is the most accessible and proven panel type. LED technology delivers a bright, sharp image for everyday use and is available in virtually every price range. For anyone looking for a reliable smart TV with good image quality without the highest technical specs, LED is a practical and affordable choice.

What should you look out for when choosing a smart TV?

Choosing a smart TV involves more factors than just the screen size. To make a well-considered choice that fits your situation and viewing habits, it's smart to take the following points into account.

• Resolution: a higher resolution like 4K UHD provides a sharper and more detailed image, especially on larger screens. For smaller sizes, Full HD may already be more than enough, but with a screen of 50 inches or larger you'll clearly notice the difference with 4K.
• Panel type: LED, QLED, Mini LED and OLED each have their own strengths in terms of brightness, contrast and color reproduction. Read above which panel type best suits your viewing space and preferences.
• Smart TV platform: the operating system determines which apps are available and how smoothly the interface works. Popular platforms like Android TV and Google TV give you access to the Google Play Store and work well together with other smart devices.
• HDR support: TVs with HDR display a wider color range and more nuance between light and dark parts of the image, which gives a more realistic picture especially for movies and series.
• Sound quality: built-in speakers vary greatly from model to model. Consider whether the sound is sufficient for your use or whether you want to add a soundbar or other TV accessory for more complete sound.
• Gaming: if you game regularly on a console or PC, look for low input lag and a dedicated game mode. A gaming TV with these features ensures a responsive and smooth gaming experience.
• Energy consumption: an energy-efficient TV saves on your energy costs in the long run. The energy label gives you quick insight into consumption, especially now that energy prices in the Netherlands are structurally higher.

By thinking about these points in advance, you avoid a bad purchase and choose a smart TV that lasts for years and suits your way of watching. Want to dive deeper into the differences between panel types? Then also check out our explanation about OLED vs. QLED to make a good comparison.

Buy a smart TV at TechPunt

You buy a smart TV at TechPunt with confidence. As an official distributor and specialist in consumer electronics, we offer a carefully curated range of smart TVs in a variety of sizes, resolutions and panel types. At TechPunt you'll always find a television that suits your wishes.

Thanks to our lowest price guarantee, you can be sure you won't find a better deal anywhere, and with free shipping from €75 and next business day delivery when you order before 8:00 PM, you'll have your new smart TV in no time. View the range, compare on image quality, size and features, and order your ideal smart TV today at TechPunt.