It seems like everything is “smart” today. However, there is a growing number of people who are questioning whether smart devices are necessary, especially when it comes to televisions. A “dumb” TV is a television that does not have built-in Internet connectivity or smart features, such as the ability to access streaming services, like Netflix or Hulu. While the market is saturated with Smart TVs, there are still several great dumb TV options on the market today, including our picks below.
1. Best Premium: Samsung 55-Inch BE55T-H Pro TV
Price: $647.00
Technically, the Samsung BE55T-H Pro is classified as “digital signage,” as it was primarily designed for business applications, such as airport flight information and restaurant menus. But don’t let that throw you. This is a high-quality TV from Samsung, just without the “smart” features. Usually, “digital signage” commands high prices, mainly because they are made to have extended operating times while boasting excellent image quality. However, this TV from Samsung is still very affordable, making it a great option for those looking for excellent image quality without having to connect to the Internet.
Good to Know: check out these Blu-Ray players you can connect to your dumb TV.
2. Best OLED: LG 65EP5G UltraFine Display Pro
Price: Inquire with LG
The LG UltraFine Display OLED Pro isn’t technically a TV, as it is a monitor, with no smart functionality built in. What makes the LG 65EP5G attractive as a TV is the fact that it boasts an OLED panel. This proprietary LG technology allows each individual pixel of the display to be turned on and off. This allows for the reproduction of true black, resulting in much better contrast and an excellent color gamut. Furthermore, the LG 65EP5G is marketed as a content production monitor, boasting advanced customization features along with a slew of I/O for use in broadcast and virtual production applications.
Tip: if you aren’t happy with the audio quality of your television, buy a home theater system for enhanced audio quality.
3. Best for Gaming: Sony X85K
Price: $698 (55″)
When it comes to gaming, it’s all about the refresh rate. Tied closely to frames per second, the higher the refresh rate, the smoother and more realistic the motion within the game appears. The X85K series of TVs from Sony boast a refresh rate of 120Hz, double the standard 60Hz found in most televisions. This TV is a bit of a cheat, as it is not technically a “dumb” TV. While the Sony X85K runs Google TV, it is possible to turn off all of the smart features, effectively rendering it “dumb.” You’ll be watching TV through your antenna or cable and playing media through the inputs on the TV, like a gaming console.
4. Best Budget Option: Insignia N10
Price: $129 (40″)
The Insignia N10 is a great option for those who are looking to stretch their dollar. What you get is a no-frills TV that gets the basics right. With the N10, you’ll get a full HD 1080 LED display. It may not be 4K, but at this price, it’s still going to look great, no matter the content. In addition, the N10 comes in a variety of sizes, including 19, 24, 32 and 40-inch models. This makes the N10 a perfect budget option for smaller rooms like bedrooms. While it is possible to source the N10 at various retailers, Insignia is a Best Buy brand. This means that you’ll get the best price by buying directly from them.
5. Best for Kids: Westinghouse HD 32 Inch TV with Built-In DVD and V-Chip
Price: $179.99
This relatively small TV is perfect for a child’s room or recreational vehicle. Unfortunately, the picture isn’t really anything to write home about, as the Westinghouse HD 32 Inch with Built-In DVD and V-Chip uses a 720p panel. This isn’t unusual for TVs of this size, but you may be able to notice the difference. You do benefit from a feature that is virtually non-existent in other sets. After all, who needs Netflix when you have a built-in DVD player? Additionally, this set comes with V-Chip technology, meaning parents can rest easy knowing the kiddos won’t be watching anything they’re not supposed to.
Tip: if you are having issues setting up your new television, you may want to check whether you are getting a signal.
“Dumb” TVs have many advantages over their smart counterparts, most notably in terms of user privacy. But “dumb” TVs are a dying breed that is getting harder to source. Even if you can’t find a “dumb” TV that suits your needs, you have other options. Computer monitors often boast ultra-high definition resolutions and impressive refresh rates, and with HDMI connectivity, you can connect your cable box, TV tuner or game console without any hassles. As an alternate option, monitors are available in super large sizes, perfect for consuming media! You could also opt for a projector, especially if you want to supersize your viewing area.
Image credit: Pexels
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