Your Essential TV Buying Checklist

Take this list to the store or use it online to make smart, easy decisions. (PDF version)

Budget: Set your max budget to quickly narrow choices.

TV Size: Use our Calculator to find the right size TV for your room.

Distance from TV

Desired screen size

Room Lighting: Lighting affects picture performance.

Bright Dim Dark Mixed

Panel Type: OLED (best blacks); QLED (bright colors); LED (budget).

OLED QLED LED

Resolution: 4K is standard; 8K costs more with little content available.

4K 8K

Specify other resolution

HDR: Enhances color & contrast for more lifelike images.

HDR10 Dolby Vision Not important

Refresh Rate: 120 Hz = smoother for sports/gaming; 60 Hz fine for general use.

60 Hz 120 Hz

Sound: Built-in speakers often sound thin; soundbars offer better audio.

TV speakers Soundbar Soundbar bundled w/TV

Specify other sound setup

HDMI Ports: Count how many HDMI devices you'll connect.

Additional Ports: For older audio/video equipment or special devices.

Mounting: Decide if you'll use a stand or wall mount.

Stand Wall mount

Streaming & Smart Features: Built-in streaming (e.g., Roku) or external device?

Built-in smart TV External device

Specify preferred platform

Warranty: Decide if you want an extended warranty.

Yes No

My TV Buying Checklist