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Smarter Home: Shopping for a New TV

Posted by on Jan. 31, 2012 at 12:00 AM
  • 50 Replies


If you're thinking of picking up a new TV, now is a great time. Prices are low, and there are a lot of options. The most popular size is 46-51 inches, and the most popular type is LCD/LED, which gives you a better bang for your buck than Plasma. There are a lot of great TV deals to be found, just keep a few shopping tips in mind before you head to the store.

Stay on budget. Get a general idea of what you're looking for then do a quick online search to see what price those TVs cost. Stick to that budget. When you get to the store a lot of TVs look great, and it's easy to get caught up and overspend.

What features do you want? 3D and WiFi are popular features right now. I like WiFi, not crazy about 3D. I suggest looking for a TV with WiFi built-in, or at least WiFi cable that you can use WiFi with the addition of an adapter. Services like Hulu and Netflix Instant are gaining popularity and you don't really want to watch movies on your laptop, this way you'll be able to easily watch them on your TV.

I'm not a 3D fan, but whether you want 3D or not is up to you, but be warned: Sometimes the 3D glasses can be pricey. If you have to outfit a family of four in 3D glasses that could be a significant amount of additional money you need to spend.

Put it on the wall. If you're going to mount the TV on the wall. Make sure you measure the wall, and bring measurements with you to the store. If you have little kids who climb, I suggest putting it on the wall out of reach. This will cost you anywhere from $200-$500, but in my opinion the peace of mind is worth it.

Are you thinking of getting a new TV, or did you get one recently? What room is it for?

Posted by on Jan. 31, 2012 at 12:00 AM
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Replies:
lalasmama2007
by Ticia on Jan. 31, 2012 at 12:23 AM
Nope. No plans for a new tv. We bought one 2 years ago.
lilahsmommie
by Gold Member on Jan. 31, 2012 at 12:25 AM

Good tips!

bether89
by Platinum Member on Jan. 31, 2012 at 12:28 AM

 We just bought one for the bedroom.

MamaBear2cubs
by Nikki on Jan. 31, 2012 at 7:53 AM

Nope. Jim repairs tv's as a living we always have spares.

amy7243
by Amy on Jan. 31, 2012 at 8:23 AM
Great tips! We could use new ones but its not in our budget right now.
mamivon2
by Sandra on Jan. 31, 2012 at 10:31 AM

I got my dh one in august for his birthday.. It was in the bedroom now its in the basement

goddess99
by Michelle on Jan. 31, 2012 at 10:55 AM

We got a new tv for our living room a month ago.

MamaMandee
by Mandee on Jan. 31, 2012 at 4:44 PM
We are considering getting a new one for the game room. The one we had in there but it finally died so there is a small one in there for now but the kids have been complaining that its to small to play Rock Band and some of their other video games.
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wendums1229
by Wendi on Jan. 31, 2012 at 4:54 PM

TFS but hubby just got a 65 inch for his birthday in May and he better make it last !! lol

Jerichos_Mommy
by Platinum Member on Jan. 31, 2012 at 5:08 PM

No TV plans here

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