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Thanks to the sophisticated, weatherproof design of outdoor TVs, you can now complete your space with a year-round entertainment system that brings one of the home’s greatest comforts to the backyard. Outdoor TVs make it possible to enjoy the game while you’re watching the burgers sizzle, take in a movie by starlight, and stream your favorite shows on the patio. Plus, their all-weather designs block out dust and moisture that would ruin an indoor TV in a matter of weeks. But which model is right for you? Our experts detailed each one below to help smooth your search.
Why You Need an Outdoor TV
We’ve long believed that outdoor spaces should feature all the comforts of the indoors. That includes entertainment; unless you’re a particularly captivating cook, you probably need a little help in that department. That’s where outdoor-rated TVs come in—specially calibrated and weatherproofed for peak performance in the elements, they’re the solution for all your outdoor viewing needs.
Weather-proofed to Last
Outdoor TVs are engineered with water repellent technologies to handle the elements in ways indoor models can’t.
Outdoor Viewing
Glare can be a real concern—particularly outdoors—which is why all-weather TV screens provide unmatched brightness and contrast.
Social Experience
Being able to stream movies, shows, and sports in the backyard is another opportunity to get friends and family together.
Wireless Connectivity
Smart outdoor TVs include integrated internet, allowing you to access your favorite streaming services for movies or TV. No antennas or cable boxes required.
Where to Place Your Outdoor TV
Location isn’t just about where you’d like to put your TV—certain models are made for particular placements and will have a much shorter lifespan if installed in the wrong setting. The best area to install your TV ultimately comes down to the degree of weatherproofing and screen calibration, which varies by sun exposure.
It’s also important to note that, wherever you put your TV, you should ensure it’s near an accessible power source. If any type of connection needs to be made indoors or if power must be run from inside, consult a contractor. Finally, always avoid direct heat sources such as fireplaces, patio heaters, and cooking equipment as these units can damage your outdoor TV.
Outdoor TV Screen Size
Outdoor TV size should be based on your planned viewing distance, while also accounting for the size of your space. We’ve found that the best way to determine TV size is as follows: divide your TV viewing distance (in inches) by 1.5. So, if you’re planning on watching from your love seat 96 inches away (8 feet), you’ll need a screen size of around 60–65 inches. Remember: TVs are measured diagonally, from corner to corner.
It’s worth mentioning that whatever size you land on, you’ll need to decide between a 4K screen resolution or 1080p. In the case of the former, you’ll receive a higher resolution, which means a sharper and more detailed image compared to 1080p. It’s this increase in pixel count that provides a clearer and more immersive viewing experience and can allow you to sit closer to your screen without noticing the pixels. While 4K is more expensive than most 1080p units, the price gap has narrowed greatly in recent years.
Smart TVs vs Standard TVs
Smart TVs are seemingly everywhere these days, so much so that they’ve even made it to the outdoors. With integrated internet capabilities, these units are perfect for “cord-cutters.” But the big question may remain for some: is this technology worth it? We certainly think so, but the decision is ultimately up to you.
Let’s take a look at what these next-generation models have to offer, particularly in comparison to standard outdoor TVs, which don’t include internet access.
Smart TVs
- Internet Connectivity
- Streaming App Support
- WiFi & Bluetooth
- Digital Antenna
- Wired Connections
Outdoor smart TVs are designed to withstand various weather conditions and come with features like weatherproofing, anti-glare screens, and durable construction. With built-in smart capabilities, they offer access to streaming services and internet content, enhancing your entertainment options.
Standard TVs
- Digital Antenna
- Wired Connections
Standard outdoor TVs are built with weather-resistant materials to withstand elements like rain and sunlight, ensuring durability in outdoor environments. Though they lack the internet capabilities of outdoor smart TVs, they can connect to your existing cable service or satellite TV for traditional viewing options.
Outdoor TV Mounting Options
Just like with indoor TVs, you’ll need a place to put your outdoor unit. We offer 4 different types of mounts to fit the location you prefer and whatever size TV you choose. Better yet, every mount has been weatherproofed to resist corrosion over years of outdoor use. All our outdoor TV mounts include the standard VESA pattern—with the holes spaced differently for different sizes, of course. Read on to find the mount that’s right for your setup. To learn more about mounting an outdoor television, read our mounting your outdoor TV article.
Final Considerations
We know you’ve had to process a lot throughout this article, but there are a few parting thoughts we’d like to leave you with. Our Outdoor Television FAQ is a great resource for more info.
Outdoor-Rated Speakers & Soundbars
For almost all our weatherproof TVs, outdoor speakers and soundbars are an optional accessory. Still, the right audio upgrade can make a world of difference for your outdoor viewing experience. To explore your audio options, check out our Soundbar and Speakers Buying Guide.
Weatherproof Remotes
While every outdoor-rated TV we carry comes with an outdoor remote, there are some interesting upgrades available. Each brand applies its special weatherization process to its outdoor TV remotes so they can function in the elements.
Outdoor TV Covers
Though all-weather TVs are built to handle whatever the outdoors throws at them, there’s no harm in adding an extra layer of protection. Outdoor TV covers are more than up for the job, with heavy-duty material designed to preserve the cleanliness of your unit when not in use.
By now you should be feeling much more confident about buying the perfect outdoor TV for your backyard. But if you’re still on the fence or have any outdoor TV questions that weren’t answered here (or any outdoor living questions), you can always reach our experts at 1-844-213-0617.