This document contains my current TV purchase recommendations.
Current Recommendations
The State of TVs in 2024
In 2024 - it’s all but impossible to find a non-smart TV that won’t break the bank. My recommendations for port counts, etc. still apply and are listed below.
Since I have an iPhone / Mac, having an Apple TV is a natural choice. If you’re an Amazon person, you could use a Fire stick, and Roku is another option.
I’m still not a fan of the smart features offered by most TVs, and prefer to have a separate streaming box. I like the modularity this allows for and if I choose to plug my Apple TV into a projector or some other TV (or bring it with me), that is an option.
I don’t trust all the “Smart” TV vendors out there - so I prefer to leave the TV itself disconnected from my network. See the security section below.
Key Requirements
- HDMI In (2 ports minimum, more is better - 3 or 4 preferred!)
- To Be Used by:
- Set-Top Box
- Gaming Console
- Streaming Box
- Laptop Video In
- To Be Used by:
- Optical Out (required for most soundbars)
Additional Considerations
These are optional but good for flexibility & compatibility with older devices. Some of these may be harder to find, but you can find cheap conversion boxes for most of these that work well.
- Headphone Out
- Analog Audio Out (for legacy sound systems)
- Composite Video In (for legacy devices)
- Component Video In (for legacy devices)
- Analog Audio In (typically paired with composite/component video)
- S-Video (optional, if you have a use for it)
Smart TVs & Security
- If privacy is a concern, I recommend purchasing an Apple TV, Fire Stick, or similar box instead of using the built-in smart features.
- Smart TVs can potentially (and it seems like some do) sell viewer data.
- Smart TVs aren’t very modular (but set-top/streaming boxes can easily be replaced or moved).
- CNBC: Smart TV Privacy