In uncertain times like these we crave comfort, and an escape from the heightened anxiety many of us are feeling right now. While many people often look to family and friends to help lift their mood, South Africa’s lockdown means socialising is a real no-go right now. So, while we don’t know when physical touch will be allowed again, what we can do is look to the next best thing; laughing along with our favourite characters on binge-worthy TV shows, virtual coffee catch ups with family, and weekend ‘house parties’ online with friends. No home appliance has raised to the occasion quite the like smart TV during this difficult time. But, is a smart TV worth the investment and how can you save money in the long run when buying a smart TV?
Is now the time to buy a smart TV?
With the economy uncertain, and cost-cutting happening left, right and centre, it’s understandable the hesitance some people may feel when it comes to investing in a high-end smart TV. But, a smart TV is exactly that; an investment, and one that will actually save you in the long run.
If it’s escapism, comfort and a pick-me-up you’re after, then you really do need a good TV. Now that we are spending more time at home than ever before, we’re craving interaction with the outside world, and having to find creative ways to do this, without actually going outside. During this time your TV is more than just your TV; it’s your exercise companion, your source of news, your communication with friends and family near and far and your comfort.
What type of smart TV should I buy?
While it may be tempting to buy a cheaper TV, especially now, you could be accepting a trade-off in quality. A cheaper TV doesn’t always turn out to be the better deal.
That’s not to say you need to settle for poor performance just because you’re on a budget. If you scale into larger size smart TVs, particularly over 65-inch, that extra screen real estate will begin to cost you. However, beyond that, you won’t see such a huge price difference between a smart and a non-smart TV, and that line is becoming more blurred as time goes on.
Of course, there are also a number of features you can look for in a smart TV that will ensure the technology in your TV stands the test of time. These will give more time before you have to upgrade and buy a new TV.
Smart TV features that will save you money in the long run
There are a few ways to ensure investing in a smart TV now will save you money in the long run:
Opt for an Android TV
If possible, opt for a smart TV with full access to the Google Play Store. With other smart TVs using their own operating systems, users are quite restricted when it comes to updates, and the number of apps available to them is limited. But you don’t necessarily have to shell out for high-priced, big-name TV brands to get the full benefits that an Android TV provides.
Skyworth’s smart Android TVs, for example, give users access to a world of content, as opposed to a manufacturer’s choice of content. The Google Play Store offers thousands of apps and increases daily. Plus, the Android TV’s operating system is upgradeable, including all the apps on the Google Play Store. This means you can keep up with the best in apps, games and entertainment as and when they’re available in the country, without having to fork out on a new device. Think of it as a TV with the same capabilities as your smartphone, just bigger, better and clearer.
Find the best prices on smart Android TVs online with PriceCheck:
Prioritise picture quality
Research has shown that consumers cite picture quality as their number one buying decision. You can’t put a price on an incredible viewing experience. Buy a TV with the best picture quality you can afford to really reap the benefits in the long run. This way you’ll still be enjoying a decent picture quality with the most accurate and purest colour on your TV even as technology progresses.
Make sure your TV is easy on the eyes
The blue light emitted from screens can, over time, cause eye problems such as retinal injury, myopia and cataracts, which in turn can cost thousands in treatment options. However, OLED TVs don’t need backlight, thereby minimising the harm of blue light hazard and making it the best choice for your family, especially the little ones. Opt for an OLED smart TV to save money on having to upgrade your TV too soon in the future.
Find the best prices on OLED smart TVs online with PriceCheck now:
Look for voice features
If you’re buying a new smart TV, look for a TV that has integrated voice features. These days AI TVs will ‘wake up’ in response to a voice command and respond to commands to adjust the volume or answer a general question. In fact, some smart TVs can even be controlled solely by the user’s voice. Many Android smart TVs also allow you to download the Android remote application on to your phone, so you never have to worry about losing the remote again or forking out for a new one. The app is compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems, making it accessible by a wide range of users.
Don’t forget about Smart assistant features
When shopping for a new smart TV don’t forget to look for a device that supports both Google Assistant and other smart home devices such as Amazon Alexa. This will allow you to turn your TV into your home’s control centre.
