Posted on 4 April 2022
Step 1: The picture quality
This criterion is essential. It is based on different elements that directly affect the performance and quality of the display:
- Colour fidelity, also called colourimetry, allows you to determine whether the screen’s performance is close to the colours as recorded. It is measured according to the delta E (difference between reality and the image on the screen), whose value must be less than 3. The colour temperature must be close to 6500K.
- Contrast measures the difference in intensity between the brightest white and the darkest black. Therefore, the higher the better. The champions of the category are OLED screens which, with their specific system, offer a theoretically infinite contrast.
- The brightness acts together with the contrast and ensures good readability of the display, even in high light conditions. The higher the maximum value, the better. A low minimum value could also be interesting to avoid being dazzled in dark environments.
Other elements must also be taken into account, although they are generally well addressed by manufacturers:
- Viewing angles determine the visibility of the screen depending on its position. Therefore, benefit from a high angle if you want to install the TV wherever you want, while maintaining good readability.
- The resolution impacts on the fineness of the screen and therefore on the details. Today, most TVs feature 4K resolution, which is exploited by all current SVOD services. More expensive models can even offer 8K (although it is not yet widely available on the market).
- The diagonal of the screen usually varies depending on where you want to place your TV and the throwback distance. However, the latter is not very important for 4K models due to their superior thinness.
Step 2: The reactivity
The evaluation of a TV’s reactivity is based on two elements. It is essential for lovers of action films, but also for gaming and sports broadcasts:
- The remanence is related to the display time of an image. For example, a TV with high permanence presents a risk of a persistent image that could imply the display of a trail or a blur during movements. Unfortunately, this value is only available through specific tests, as it is rarely communicated by the manufacturer.
- The refresh rate determines the number of frames per second the screen can produce. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a smooth picture, you will have to go for a high value, especially if you are a fan of video games. The minimum should be a frequency of 60 Hz. Gaming enthusiasts can opt for FHD 120 Hz compatible solutions.
Step 3: The ergonomics
Ergonomics is mainly based on two elements that affect the comfort of use. It is therefore an important element to take into account.
- On a material level, we focus on the quality of the remote control and the controls present on the TV. In itself, a remote control with a good variety of shortcuts and backlighting can be considered ideal.
- At the software level, the operating system interface and access to the various “smart” functions found on most televisions on the market are analysed. The set must be as intuitive as possible in order to be the most pleasant to use.
Step 4: The sound performance
Although it is a secondary aspect, as it can be easily replaced, the sound system of your TV must be adequate and offer sufficient versatility.
- Don’t expect sound as good as that of a home cinema, as TV sound generally emphasises vocals, with reduced bass. Some high-end models directly incorporate a soundbar or bass box for superior performance. If you prefer, you can also opt for an external soundbar.
- Unfortunately, it is difficult to test the rendering of a TV at this level. Therefore, we advise you to have a look at some specific tests on the net to get a clear idea of what to expect.
Step 5: The connectivity
This allows you to determine what type of devices can be connected to your TV.
- In general, most smart TVs have several HDMI ports, as this technology is used by the vast majority of devices.
- Having a USB port could also be very interesting, as it will allow you to connect a USB stick or an external hard drive, for example.
