Learn me about Smart TV (as in a Vizio TV)

[Bill in NC]

Pick a non-smart 32" HDTV for much less.

Then add a box of your choice - I like Roku.

[C(-)ris]

If you are sitting as close to your 32" TV as you are to a computer monitor you will see a huge difference between 1080P and 720P. However, if you sit at the normal viewing distance for watching TV it will be barely or not apparent.

[Bimwad]

The majority of 32" models now are 720p (with 1366x768 panels), and have a 60Hz native refresh rate. Those that claim to be higher utilize a scanning backlight for an effective "120Hz."

There are 1080p models, such as Samsung's EH5000 series, but they're still 60Hz.

The issue is that by the time one considers adding the higher end features to what is essentially a budget class now, one should seriously considering moving up to a larger screen size, with better potential features and value, at least if space isn't an issue. Almost anything below 40" these days will be targeted at a more basic audience, as that size forms a virtual demarcation line to more the fertile lands.

Most mid-to-high end TVs now have net connectivity features standard. However, I would give priority to the basic functionality and picture quality over the smart features. The quality varies widely, and having fast moving tech in a separate, replaceable component is preferable to having it built in to the TV where it will likely be neglected and rot after the next round of new models are introduced.

[Robert M]

Bimwad,

So true! I bought a Panasonic 32" LCD 1080p 60hz model nearly four years ago. Here is the Amazon page for it:



Great TV! What was uncommon on 32" and smaller TVs is _still_ uncommon now, i.e. 1080p, a handful of HDMI ports, etc. I'm betting the main differences between new 32" models and my old Panasonic is the backlight technology and improved panels. Otherwise, I doubt TV manufacturers have really done much with them. HDMI ports? Probably fewer HDMI ports now. Picture controls? Probably about the same level of controls. Speakers? Likely the same or similar small generally mediocre speakers. Internet features? Still uncommon. You get the idea.

32" and smaller TVs are like the annoying kid brother of the electronics industry. The manufacturers don't put much effort into really making them a serious class of TV even thought it's a very common size for spare bedrooms and home offices. Or, even regular bedrooms.

Robert

[Bill in NC]

Yep, everybody's cutting features to cut costs.

The 32" 1080p Toshiba I bought 2 years ago had 4 HDMI inputs (3 back, 1 side) - bet it's almost impossible to find that many on current year 32" HDTVs.