If upbeat anthems and sunny savings make your heart go padam padam, you’ll want to free yourself long enough to scroll through this post. We’ve collected the best Memorial Day Weekend discounts on speakers, headphones, earbuds, and more to help you celebrate the unofficial start of pool season and beach vacations with more tunes in your ears and money in your pocket.

JBL Boombox 3 $399.95 (Was $499.95)

Tony Ware

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Live sound specialists JBL makes several of our favorite portable party speakers, and the 13-pound 160W Bluetooth 5.3 Boombox 3 is the one you want to soundtrack your summer—from patio parties to friendly pick-up games. With its three-way speaker configuration, which includes a subwoofer that extends to 40 Hz, you can get any party started. And with 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, a sturdy molded handle, and IP67 (surf and sand protection), you can keep those parties going—wherever they occur. Act now and you can get all that for $100 off, so your favorite tracks slam, but your wallet isn’t hit as hard. If that’s too much body or budget for you at this time, however, there are other JBL party speakers and soundbars on sale:

• JBL Xtreme 3: $279.95 (Was $379.95)
• JBL Pulse 5 $199.95 (Was $249.95)
• JBL Flip 6: $99.95 (Was $129.95)
• JBL PartyBox Encore Essentials $199.95 (Was $299.95)  
• JBL Bar 300: $349.95 (Was $399.95)  
• JBL Bar 500: $499.95 (Was $599.95)  
• JBL Bar 700: $799.95 (Was $899.95)
• JBL Bar 1000: $999.95 (Was $1,199.95)

Need a speaker that’s purse-, pack-, and pool-friendly? The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is our favorite pint-sized Bluetooth party to take from the bathtub to the backcountry or on a bike, and this IP67 360-degree audio orb is available for $85 (down from $99).

Want to wire something more permanent on the back deck? The fully sealed Definitive Technology AW6500 outdoor speaker—featuring a 6.5″ mid-woofer, a 1″ tweeter, and a 5″ x 10″ oval pressure-driven low bass radiator, and available in black or white—is on sale for $249 (down from $299). And the smaller AW5500 is only $199 (down from $249).

Want to go wireless in the living room instead? Save $500 when you bundle the KEF LS50 Wireless II speakers and KC62 subwoofer together for $3,799.98 (down from $4,299.98). Just add both to your cart, and you can cut cords and cost on one of our favorite powered bookshelf (or standmount) speakers, plus a compact unit that provides muscular musical bass. Or save $250 when you buy both the smaller, desktop-friendly KEF LSX II speakers and KUBE 8b subwoofer for $1,749.98.

See more sweet-sounding audio deals hear and now:

• Sony SRS-XE300 X-Series IP67 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker $148 (Was $199)
• Sony SRS-XG300 X-Series IP67 Portable Bluetooth Party Speaker $198 (Was $349)
• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds $99 (Was $129)
• Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds $199 (Was $249)
• Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Overhead Headphones $278 (Was $349)
• Sony HT-A7000 7.1.2ch 500W Dolby Atmos Soundbar $1,198 (Was $1,399)
• SAMSUNG HW-Q990C 11.1.4ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar w/ wireless rear speakers + subwoofer $1,597 (Was $1,897)
• UE FITS custom-fit true wireless earbuds $169 (Was $199)
• JBL Live Free 2 True Adaptive Noise-Cancelling Wireless Earbuds $99.95 (Was $149.95)
• JBL Live 460NC Wireless On-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones $99 (Was $129)
• JBL Live 660NC Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones $149 (Was $199)
• JBL Quantum TWS Noise-Cancelling Gaming Earbuds $99.95 (Was $149.95) 
• JBL Quantum ONE $149.95 (Was $299.95)  

The post The best Memorial Day audio deals let you blast bops all summer long appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for serious swimmers		Intex Above-Ground 32-Foot by 16-Foot x 52-Inch Pool		SEE IT	Spacious pool for real swimming.
Best overall		Bestway Power Steel Above-Ground Pool Set		SEE IT	Perfect pool for family parties.
Best for babies and pets		YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool		SEE IT	The whole family can enjoy this easy-to-store pool.

Taking a dip in your own pool is the dream of many homeowners, and thanks to affordable, easy-to-install above-ground pools, it’s never been easier to attain. In-ground pools require industrial construction equipment and cost more than some cars. However, an above-ground pool is a simple way to add fun to just about any backyard. Today’s above-ground models come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and sizes. A large rectangular above-ground pool is great for summer parties. Smaller, inflatable, oval above-ground pools are perfect for young children. If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to stay cool, the best above-ground pool turns your property into an at-home vacation destination.

• Best overall: Bestway Power Above-Ground Pool Set
• Best for serious swimmers: Intex 32-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Above-Ground Pool
• Best for families: Intex 28211EH Metal Frame Above-Ground Pool
• Best for babies and pets: YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool
• Best budget: Intex Swimming Pool- Easy Set

How we chose the best above-ground pool

Our splashy selections are based on personal testing, research, recommendations, reviews, and user impressions. We culled through specs and perspectives until we narrowed down the choices to ones that fit every yard and need.

The best above-ground pools: Reviews & Recommendations

Ordering a pool online may sound like trying to get a haircut via email. But today’s pools are user-friendly and the product descriptions clearly state the sizes and dimensions to give you a good idea of what the final product looks like. So use our guide to help you find the swimming pool that fits your backyard, can fit your pool float of choice, looks great next to your inflatable hot tub, and has the style and features you want in a warm-weather oasis.

Best overall: Bestway Power Above-Ground Pool Set

Bestway

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Why it made the cut: This mid-priced, mid-sized pool fits in smaller backyards and is easy to set up.

Specs

• Capacity: 1000 gallons
• Dimensions: 168 x 98 x 39.5 inches
• Water depth: 31 inches

Pros

• Good for smaller backyards

Cons

• Included pump is weak

This 14-foot-by-8-foot-by-39-inch Bestway Power Above-Ground Pool Set is a small, yet comfortable way to add warm-weather fun to the lawn. Four adults will have plenty of room to take a dip in the pool. Set up is relatively easy, but you will need two people to get the job done. The walls and supports are strong. The biggest drawback is the inadequate pump. But you can always upgrade the pump and get a more efficient and effective filtration system. For a mid-sized, mid-priced pool, this is a solid solution.

Best for serious swimmers: Intex Above-Ground 32-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Pool

Intex

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Why it made the cut: This saltwater above-ground pool brings the water workouts to your backyard.

Specs

• Capacity: 14,364 gallons
• Dimensions: 384 x 192 x 52 inches
• Water depth: 45 inches

Pros

• 90-minute set up
• Feel of an in-ground pool

Cons

• Must supply own salt

As above-ground saltwater pools go, the Intex pool is a backyard beast, measuring 36 feet in length and just over four feet deep. That’s long enough to accomplish a genuine swimming workout in your own private lap pool. The steel frame safely holds 14,364 gallons of saltwater. You will need to supply your own salt, though. The included sand filter pumps out 2,650 gallons an hour and makes maintenance simple. If you have the space and want an above-ground model with the feel of an in-ground one, the Intex saltwater pool is your best bet.  

Best for families: Intex 28211EH 12-Foot by 30-Inch Above-Ground Pool

Intex

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Why it made the cut: Fun for the entire family is less than an hour away with this above-ground pool.

Specs

• Capacity: 1,718 gallons
• Dimensions: 144 x 144 x 30 inches
• Water depth: 24 inches

Pros

• Set up takes less than an hour
• Included filter

Cons

• Small for adults
• Lasts less than five years

The circular Intex 28211EH 12-Foot by 30-Inch Above-Ground Pool holds 1,718 gallons of water. That makes this a great choice for kids who want a fun, safe place to splash. You can set it up in less than an hour, and the included filter pump works well enough to keep the pool clean. The lining and walls feel strong, and the supports are tough enough to handle a kid’s birthday party. That said, this pool may not hold up after five years of heavy use. Luckily, the price point is low enough so even if you get a few seasons of swimming in, it’s worth the money. This model is a bit undersized for adults, but your kids and their friends will have a blast in this simple Intex pool.

Best for babies and pets: YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool

YAHEETECH

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Why it made the cut: Sturdiness and durability make this small above-ground pool baby- and dog-proof.

Specs

• Capacity: 106 gallons for XXL
• Dimensions: 63 x 63 x 12 inches
• Water depth: 12 inches

Pros

• Affordable
• Versatile

Cons

• Side panels will cave in if not on a flat surface

You can’t get an Olympic workout in the YAHEETECH Foldable Swimming Pool. In fact, it’s less of a pool than a very large puddle. But for toddlers and dogs, this affordable pool is a lot of fun. The material is strong enough to handle a rowdy Schnauzer and soft enough for your young kids to bump into. The shallow one-foot depth is safe for wobbly kids just learning to walk, though parent supervision is ALWAYS required. As an added bonus, you can use the pool as a sandbox or ball pit. (Or to soak your weary feet.) If you’re looking for the cheapest and easiest way to add summer fun to your outdoor space, this dog pool/baby pool is a fantastic and versatile option. 

Best budget: Intex Swimming Pool, Easy Set, 8 Feet by 30 Inches

Intex

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Why it made the cut: Fast set up with minimal tools required makes this above-ground pool perfect in a pinch.

Specs

• Capacity: 639 gallons
• Dimensions: 96.06 x 96.06 x 29.9 inches
• Water depth: 23 inches

Pros

• No chemicals
• Inflatable

Cons

• Small

Inflatable pools are the easiest to set up and maintain. As far as small above-ground pools go, this Intex swimming pool is the best of the blow-ups. The small, eight-foot diameter pool holds 639 gallons of water—not enough for a pool party, but plenty of room for one or two people. This pool is great for impromptu soaks after a hard day. There are no chemicals to change or filters to clean. You don’t need to snap support rods together or unfold pool covers. When you want to take a dip, inflate and go. There are holes for optional pumps, but this pool is best enjoyed as simply as possible. No need to add electricity and filtration to this solo backyard pool party. (For best results, use it in conjunction with a cocktail and ukulele.) 

What to consider when shopping for the best above-ground pool

Choosing an above-ground pool is easier than you may think. These swimming pools are designed for simple installation and minimal maintenance. Your biggest decision will be size and style. But before taking the plunge, know the do’s and don’ts of choosing an above-ground pool.

Picking the right pool size

Above-ground pool sizes are the first thing to look at when shopping for the best pool. Small, inflatable above-ground pools that hold less than 1,000 gallons of water are the easiest to use. Just inflate it when it’s time to swim and drain it when the party’s over. You don’t have to worry about any filters or chemicals. It’s basically a backyard bathtub, which is ideal for small kids. 

Large above-ground pools that hold more than 1,000 gallons of water will require more maintenance. These pools remain filled with water all season, so a filter and chemicals are needed to keep the water crystal clear and algae-free. There is more upkeep involved with the larger models than the inflatable swimming pools. However, with that said, the daily and weekly maintenance of these large above-ground models is very easy. And compared with the upkeep of a costly in-ground pool, above-ground pool maintenance is a breeze. Large above-ground pools can hold anywhere from 8,000 to 15,000 gallons of water, and they may stretch over 30 feet long. 

Reminder: Don’t forget to check the depth. While above-ground models are typically shallower than in-ground pools, they can still be too deep for small children or unsure swimmers. (Children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water.) The larger swimming pools can reach depths of about 4.5 feet. Smaller pools can be a mere three inches deep. 

Type of above-ground swimming pool

After you decide on a size, it’s time to think about what kind of above-ground pool you want: Inflatable, steel frame, resin frame, aluminum frame, hybrid, or semi-inground. Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds. 

Inflatable pools are self-explanatory: Blow it up, fill it with water, and you’re good to go. 

Steel frame above-ground models are held together with vertical steel supports. The walls and floor of the pool can be plastic, vinyl, or resin. These swimming pools are strong, but they’re also heavy and may rust. Steel also gets hot in the sun. Aluminum-frame pools are lighter than steel frame pools, but to prevent oxidation, the aluminum needs some love and care—and a protective coating. 

Resin above-ground pools are made of strong plastic. They are lighter than steel frame pools, and they won’t rust. They can also take a heavy beating without getting a dent, but they do cost more.

Hybrid pools use multiple materials to create a strong pool that will last. Resin is used to keep things light and cool. Steel supports keep everything in place. These hybrid models offer the best of both worlds, and they are less expensive than resin pools. 

Semi-inground pools are a more permanent solution. Also known as radiant pools, these pools are built with a strong wall of stone or vinyl that matches the outdoor decor. They are designed to fit your specific home, so you have customizable options you don’t get with off-the-shelf pools. However, they are expensive and permanent. The upside: Radiant pools look like stylish in-ground swimming pools.

Pool placement

While above-ground pools are versatile, they can’t be placed just anywhere. Inclines are a no-no, as even the slightest hill can push water against the walls of the pool, causing uneven pressure on the sides and liner. Spreading a few bags of sand across the area can help even things out. 

When installing an above-ground model, you must comply with local building codes and regulations. This usually means you can’t place a pool near power lines or too close to property lines. 

You will also need to factor in two to three feet of perimeter space for unobstructed access to the pool. You want a large, flat, open area of grass, sand, or dirt. Don’t put it on concrete or brick. Stay away from trees. And only install it on a deck if the deck is pool-ready and designed for the job.

Saltwater pool vs. chlorine

Most above-ground pools use harsh chemicals like chlorine to keep the water clear. But a saltwater above-ground pool is the safer alternative. While saltwater pools still need cleaning chemicals, they don’t use nearly as much of the stuff. Saltwater pools are becoming popular for those who want to use fewer chemicals and don’t want to be burdened with maintenance. Swimming in saltwater also feels better. The lower chemical content means the water is not as harsh on your eyes and skin. 

Saltwater above-ground pools are just as easy to set up as other types of pools. And you can also buy a conversion kit that turns standard chlorine pools into saltwater pools.

Installation

Once again, inflatable above-ground pools are the easiest to install. Use a pump to fill the pool with air, then add water. The installation is a bit more involved when using a pool made of vertical supports. While each pool will have its own set of instructions, they can usually be set up within an afternoon and don’t require extra power tools if everything snaps in place snugly. But you will need a helping hand or two to avoid frustration. Make sure the spot is level, lay out the various parts, and understand how the liner attaches to the swimming pool. Take your time, and you should have no trouble installing the pool. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best above-ground pools

With the best above-ground pool, your backyard becomes a fun zone. From large rectangle above-ground pools for swimming laps to small oval above-ground pools for parties, you can find a great new way to stay cool this season. With an eye on size and shape, zoom in on the model that fits your needs. Whatever style you choose, swim safe and always supervise children. Also, consider making the jump to a saltwater above-ground pool for a more natural, soothing swim. Whatever you choose, one of these pools will transform your home into a neighborhood oasis.

The post The best above-ground pools in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Memorial Day TV sales don’t get the credit they deserve. Sure, Black Friday is the grand champ for big cheap TVs, but there are some great deals to be had here on the unofficial start to Summer, too. The new models we first saw at CES are now on the shelves, and slightly older models are getting very solid discounts. You can find especially good deals on the high end of things. So, if you still happen to have some tax return cash kicking around, you can get yourself a great deal. So, grab a hot dog in one hand, your phone in the other, and shop the best Memorial Day TV deals in our big list below.

SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 8K QN800B Series Mini LED $1,597 (Was $3,299)

Samsung

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Do you need an 8K TV right now? Probably not. But, this TV offers everything you need for it to last years. And, thanks to HDMI 2.1 connectivity, excellent upscaling, and all those pixels, you’ll get a fantastic picture whether you’re gaming or streaming.

Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 8” Subwoofers (Wireless), 2 Rear Surround Speakers $999 (Was $1,299)

Makamichi

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Nakamichi makes some of the best wireless surround sound systems you can buy, and they’re at the cheapest prices we’ve ever seen for Memorial Day. This kit comes with a powerful soundbar, a pair of eight-inch subwoofers, and a pair of wireless surround speakers. This is a killer setup if you can justify the expense.

More Nakamichi deals

• Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel 1000W Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 10″ Subwoofers (Wireless) & 4 Rear Surround Speakers $1,099 (was $1,499)
• Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 10″ Subwoofers (Wireless), 4 Rear Surround Effects Speakers, eARC and SSE Max Technology $1,477 (was $1,899)

LG TV deals

• LG C2 Series 42-Inch Class OLED $896 (was $1,199)
• LG C2 Series 55-Inch Class OLED $1,196 (was $1,399)
• LG C2 Series 83-Inch Class OLED evo $3,996 (was $4,499)
• LG – 77″ Class B2 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,999 (was $2,499)
• LG – 65″ Class 80 Series QNED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,199 (was $1,299)
• LG – 65″ Class C2 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,599 (was $1,699)
• LG – 77″ Class G2 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart webOS TV with Gallery Design $3,399 (was $3,799)
• LG – 65″ Class G2 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart webOS TV with Gallery Design $1,999 (was $2,199)
• LG – 65″ Class B2 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,299 (was $1,599)
• LG – 55″ Class C2 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $1,199 (was $1,299)

Samsung TV deals

• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Series Mini LED $1,597 (was $2,297)
• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class QLED Q60A Series $897 (was $1,099)
• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class QLED Q80A Series $1,033 (was $1,597)
• SAMSUNG 65-Inch Class QLED Q80B Series $727 (was $999)
• SAMSUNG 50-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90C Series Neo $1,297 (was $1,597)
• Samsung – 65″ Class QN800 Neo QLED 8K UHD Smart Tizen TV $1,599 (was $2,699)
• Samsung – 65″ Class TU690T Series LED 4K UHD Smart Tizen TV $449 (was $669)
• Samsung – 65″ Class Q60C QLED 4K Smart Tizen TV $899 (was $999)
• Samsung – 75” Class QN90B Neo QLED 4K Smart Tizen TV $1,799 (was $2,399)

Sony TV deals

• Sony 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X90K Series $1,098 (was $1,499)
• Sony OLED 77 inch BRAVIA XR A80K Series 4K Ultra HD TV $2,798 (was $3,199)
• Sony Z9J 75 Inch TV: BRAVIA XR Full Array LED 8K Ultra HD Smart Google TV $2,799 (was $3,999)
• Sony – 65″ Class BRAVIA XR X90K 4K HDR Full Array LED Google TV $1,099 (was $1,299)
• Sony – 55″ Class BRAVIA XR A80K 4K HDR OLED Google TV $1,299 (was $1,499)

Other TV deals

• Insignia™ – 55″ Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $259 (was $399)
• Insignia™ – 65″ Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $349 (was $549)
• Insignia™ – 75″ Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $529 (was $749)

Home audio deals

• VIZIO V-Series 5.1 Home Theater Sound Bar with Dolby Audio, Bluetooth, Wireless Subwoofer $179 (was $219)
• SAMSUNG HW-B57 B-Series 4.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby Audio/DTS Virtual X, Game Mode, Wireless Bluetooth TV Connection, Rear Speaker Kit & Subwoofer Included $197 (was $249)
• Klipsch Cinema 400 Sound Bar + 8Inch Wireless Subwoofer with HDMIARC $269 (was $329)
• VIZIO M-Series Elevate 5.1.2 Immersive Sound Bar with 13 High-Performance Speakers, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Wireless Subwoofer $599 (was $798)
• JBL Bar 300: 5.0-Channel Compact All-in-one soundbar with MultiBeam™ and Dolby Atmos $349 (was $399)

The post The best Memorial Day TV and home theater deals are a sweet sight appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Definitive Technology just recently released its Dymension Tower Speaker. With new releases mean you can get older tech that still holds up for a crazy good deal, like this Definitive Technology BP9020 High Power Bipolar Tower Speaker with Integrated 8″ Subwoofer—it’s on sale for $299.99, down from $649. That’s 54% off!

Definitive Technology BP9020 High Power Bipolar Tower Speaker with Integrated 8″ Subwoofer $299.99 (Was $649)

Definitive Technology

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Upgrade to an expressive stereo system with the Definitive Technology BP9020 High-Power Bipolar Tower Speaker, which gives you detailed, room-filling sound. A Forward-Focused Bipolar Array—featuring a front 1″ tweeter and (2) 3.5″ mid-drivers paired with rear-facing 3.5″ mid-driver—gives you a precise center image along with bodied, expansive sound, and an integrated 8″ powered subwoofer gives you better low-end extension without having to add a separate cube into your set-up. You can also get specific with your bass-iness with intelligent bass control, which lets you modulate deep bass levels up and down without wrecking mid-range tonal balance. And Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support lets you get multi-dimensional with your sound when you expand to a compatible AV receiver and additional channels, including the optional A90 height speaker. All of this tech is packed into an inert, resonance-free cabinet so your floors don’t bungle the tech magic happening inside. Pick up a pair today, hit play, and slay!

If you have more room in the budget, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi Floorstanding Speaker in Red Walnut is also going for a crazy price. It’s currently on sale for $999.99, down from $1,874.98—that’s 47% of savings on a third-gen speaker that still gives immersive, clear sound.

Once you go hi-fi, it’s hard to go back—and you won’t be able to experience audiophile-level quality this cheap if you don’t snag this deal.

Here are other speaker and home audio deals that speak to us:

• Definitive Technology AW6500 Outdoor Speaker $249 (Was $299)
• Definitive Technology AW 5500 All Weather Speaker $199 (Was $249)
• Edifier MR4 Powered Studio Monitor Speakers $99.99 (Was $129.99)
• JBL Bar 500: 5.1-Channel Soundbar $499.95 (Was $599.95)
• JBL Bar 1000: 7.1.4-Channel Soundbar $999.95 (Was $1,199.95)
• Mackie CR-X Series, Premium Desktop PC Soundbar with Bluetooth $143.99 (Was $259.99)
• Mackie CR-X Series, Powered Floor-Standing Subwoofer (CR6S-X) $143.99 (Was $179.99)
• Yamaha Audio SR-B20A Sound Bar with Built-in Subwoofers and Bluetooth $149.95 (Was $199.95)
• Klipsch Reference Next-Generation R-50C Horn-Loaded Center Channel Speakers $263 (Was $379)

The post Listen to this—get 50% off a Definitive Technology speaker on Amazon before Memorial Day appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna		SEE IT	The Antennas Direct 8-element Bowtie TV Antenna looks big, but it gets the job done and some for those with room.
Best budget		GE Outdoor TV Antenna		SEE IT	GE’s sturdy and affordable antenna should cover almost anyone.
Best long-range		Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna		SEE IT	The Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna gets better range than most.

The switch from cable and satellite to streaming services has led to a surprising comeback for a certain older piece of gear: the humble TV antenna. Digital streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO Max may have all the hot shows you want, but not your local network affiliates for regional news and sports. Fortunately, if you have an antenna, these stations are still broadcast for free. If you own your home or otherwise have safe access to bolt down a larger, fixed antenna, you will absolutely get better performance and more bang for your buck, which could be essential if you’re in a rural area and need that extra juice to pull in distant signals clearly. Choosing the best outdoor TV antennas can seem like an overwhelming task meant for technicians, but we’ve done that research for you so you can just choose the antenna best suited for your needs.

• Best overall: Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna
• Best long-range: Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna
• Best small: Winegard Elite 7550
• Best motorized: PBD Digital Outdoor TV Antenna
• Best budget: GE Outdoor TV Antenna

How we selected the best outdoor TV antennas

Compact, affordable indoor TV antennas have become a popular choice, allowing even apartment dwellers access to over-the-air (OTA) signals. However, traditional roof- or attic-mounted antennas still outperform their indoor counterparts, with the obvious physical advantage of being higher up and having less interference. You don’t necessarily need anything fancy: Mass cord-cutting—people moving away from cable and satellite to streaming services—is mostly a case of “out with the old, in with the new.” We’ve combed through consumer and critic reviews to find a consensus on the best-performing antenna on the market today, depending on various specific needs such as range, cost, or size. You can also make your own.

The best outdoor TV antennas: Reviews & Recommendations

If you are able to install an outdoor TV antenna on your roof, there’s really no reason not to these days. The best outdoor TV antenna gets you all the channels you want clearly. Why pay someone else for an inferior broadcast when you can get the better version directly for free? Here are the best outdoor TV antennas that we could find.

Best overall: Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna

Antennas Direct

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Why it made the cut: The Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie is a powerful all-purpose antenna that should suit most people with room for it.

Specs

• Range: 70 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Attic/Outdoor
• Gain: 17.4Dbi

Pros

• Great performance
• Flexibility from multiple aimable panels
• Lifetime warranty on parts

Cons

• Large
• Includes mounting hardware but requires mount and coaxial cable

Antennas Direct’s 8-Element Bowtie antenna is not subtle. The four large lattices, stacked two-tall, side by side, stick out. But that’s the secret to its power! Its eight sensing elements are spread out across two independently rotating columns, allowing you the flexibility to either spread them out for wider coverage or focus them for a better signal in a single direction. Its listed range of 70 miles, 17.4 dBi gain, and flexible configuration make it a great all-purpose option, although it will typically require some additional hardware to mount and connect fully.

Best long-range: Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna

Five Star

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Why it made the cut: Five Star’s outdoor antenna reaches extremely far for its accessible price.

Specs

• Range: 200 miles
• UHF/VHF: both
• Installation: Outdoor
• Gain: 15 – 35 dB (boosted)

Pros

• Fantastic long-range performance
• 360-degree motorized coverage
• Mounting pole and hardware included

Cons

• Relatively complicated assembly and installation

The Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna makes it very clear that it can take in signals from any direction with its six reflector elements spread over three poles pointing outward from a central, motorized shaft. It boasts an impressive 200-mile range with a built-in signal booster, making this a great option for rural areas. It also includes wiring and hardware for attaching up to five televisions and a mounting pole. Although it does require a bit more assembly than other options, that reflects a lot more capability for people willing to put in a bit of work.

Best small: Winegard Elite 7550

Winegard

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Why it made the cut: Winegard’s Elite 7550 antenna performs extremely well, especially for its size.

Specs

• Range: 70 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Outdoor/attic
• Gain: N/A

Pros

• Great performance
• Excellent interference mitigation
• Compact

Cons

• Expensive
• Plastic construction and roof mount

Winegard has emerged as a big name in TV antennas for good reason, and the Elite 7550 is a great example of what you can get if you’re willing to spend more on a contemporary antenna. Although it doesn’t match the expansive range of some, it performs extremely well within its listed 70 miles, bringing in more and clearer channels than many other antennas. Much of its special sauce is the built-in mechanisms it has for reducing interference from competing signals, such as an LTE filter to cut out cell phone interference. This makes it great for cities or large towns where the problem is more likely to be an overabundance of signals in the air rather than reaching for distant, quiet ones. The only complaint we’ve seen consistently is that, despite promises that it is fully weatherized, many people have said the plastic construction and mounting hardware don’t feel as sturdy as they would like, which could be a concern if you live somewhere with more serious storms and winters.

Best motorized: PBD Digital Outdoor TV Antenna

Pingbingding

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: PBD offers a more value-focused alternative to our long-range antenna that also covers every direction.

Specs

• Range: 150 miles
• UHF/VHF: both
• Installation: Outdoor
• Gain: 32-36 Db

Pros

• Excellent performance
• 360-degree motorized rotation
• Easy assembly
• Great price

Cons

• Complaints about remote control

PBD’s Digital Outdoor TV Antenna looks like a laser turret meant to shoot down rebel X-wings from the top of a Star Destroyer with its directional array and 360-degree motorized rotation, if you’re into that sort of thing. It features a great long-range antenna and comes at a relatively low price for the power and flexibility it offers. In contrast to our other, more expensive motorized antenna, the PBD also features very easy snap-on assembly that minimizes the need for tools. The only complaints we have seen are that some people have found the remote control for rotation to be imprecise or buggy but, across the board, it is a very dependably well-liked product.

Best budget: GE Outdoor TV Antenna

GE

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Why it made the cut: GE’s Outdoor TV Antenna is a well-built, no-frills solid workhorse that doesn’t cost all that much.

Specs

• Range: 70 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Outdoor/attic
• Gain: N/A

Pros

• Easy setup
• Affordable
• Durable

Cons

• Ugly
• Unidirectional

GE’s Outdoor TV Antenna 29884 is as no-frills as its generic name would suggest, but often that’s all you need. It’s got solid performance at a 70-mile range that it even functions well in an attic, which you may want to do since it’s not too aesthetically pleasing. It only receives signals from the direction it’s pointed, with no rotation or omnidirectionality, so it may not be the best fit if you can pull in distant signals from multiple cities. In many cases, however, it’s more than good enough, especially for how much less you’ll pay than for some of the more expensive options on this list.

What to consider before buying the best outdoor TV antennas

Anyone looking to invest in an OTA TV antenna should start by learning a little bit about their local broadcast landscape. What stations are available at their address, along with info about broadcast frequency and, most importantly, the distance and relative strength. There are various free tools online for getting all this information, including AntennaWeb, and the FTC’s own DTV Reception Maps.

Over 95% of Americans have access to local affiliates of FOX, CBS, ABC, NBC, The CW, and PBS. Most will also likely have some combination of other broadcast stations like Ion, Telemundo, and MeTV. As a general rule, the closer you are to a major city, the more stations you will have closeby. Make note of the stations that you want to watch, and then find an antenna that can accommodate the most distant signals that matter to you.

SD, HD, or 4K?

Since the U.S. mandated that broadcasters transition from analog broadcasting to digital in 2009, the signal quality of OTA television has vastly improved. So much so that it is often less compressed (and so clearer and brighter) than the same channel being crunched down and sent over a landline as part of a cable package. Full HD (1080p) has become the current industry standard for most broadcasts, and all of the antennas we recommend can receive that signal. Some antennas also market the ability to process 4K broadcasts, but that isn’t something you really need right now. While 4K OTA broadcasting is possible, few networks do so. There’s little pressure to upgrade at the moment since the difference between SD and HD, which itself still feels fresh to many OTA watchers, is much more noticeable to the unaccustomed eye than the difference between HD and 4K.

Range

There are a few specifications that you really want to keep in mind when picking your antenna. At the top of the list, check out its maximum range. Your reception and picture quality for OTA channels will drop off if a station is near the outer edge of what your antenna receives. If you have channels on the edge, you may find yourself wanting a separate amplifier to boost the signal, but a higher maximum range is always better. 

Gain, expressed in decibels (dB), is a measure of how well a given antenna performs against a standard reference in picking up signals in a particular direction, ranging up into the 30+ dB on the very high end. More gain is better, as you might expect. Unfortunately, manufacturers don’t always list it. Other stats like impedance and voltage are often listed in ohms and hertz, respectively, but most TV viewers won’t find scrutinizing them to be extra effort, as they are quite technical.

UHF and VHF?

The other major capacity listed that may confuse a first-time buyer is Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and Very High Frequency (VHF), which refers to the frequency bands at which particular signals are broadcast. Like air traffic control keeping planes from running into one another, these signals are managed by the FTC to ensure that different stations and other broadcast functions (such as cell or emergency) are all spread out at different points along the electromagnetic spectrum to avoid interfering with one another. 

As the names suggest, UHF is the higher-frequency band, and most TV stations live there. VHF is still very much in play, however. This will be listed along with each station in the above-mentioned online tools (with VHF often being divided into Hi-V and Lo-V), so that will give you a sense of what you should care about. Contemporary antennas are typically either UHF only or combined, with outdoor antennas being able to actually have separate dedicated elements to capture both. Even without dedicated VHF support, however, UHF antennas often end up capturing Hi-V signals regardless.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best outdoor TV antennas

• Best overall: Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna
• Best long-range: Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna
• Best small: Winegard Elite 7550
• Best motorized: PBD Digital Outdoor TV Antenna
• Best budget: GE Outdoor TV Antenna

There’s no better time than now to drop your cable or satellite TV subscription, and an HDTV outdoor antenna may be just what you need to finally pull the trigger. The exact type and model you need will depend on a number of factors, but you can rest assured that there is almost certainly a great option out there for you at a very reasonable price.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best outdoor TV antennas in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		BenQ TK850		SEE IT	A top-tier true UHD DLP 4K cinema experience.
Best HD		Epson Home Cinema 3800		SEE IT	A 3LCD HD projector that competes with 4K.
Best portable		Anker Nebula Solar		SEE IT	Ultra-portable and battery-powered for taking the show(s) on the road.

As the weather warms up, outside activities heat up, and outdoor projectors transform the natural world into open-air movie theaters. They feature powerful lamps for use even when the sun hasn’t fully set or the streetlights are on, and they’re light enough to make moving them from your media room to your deck easy on your back. Many projectors suited for outdoor use include features like rechargeable batteries, smart TV operating systems, and robust speakers to help streamline set-up. Most importantly, just like any projector you’d buy for indoor use, they don’t skimp on important image specs, such as color, contrast, and resolution. When you don’t want your cul-de-sac drive-in to become a giant car wreck of a viewing experience, turn to the best outdoor projectors. 

• Best overall: BenQ TK850
• Best HD: Epson Home Cinema 3800
• Best portable: Anker Nebula Solar
• Best for daylight: Anker Nebula Cosmos Laser 4K Projector
• Best for rooftops: Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12
• Best for streaming: XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro Mini Projector
• Best budget: GooDee Video Projector 2022

How we chose the best outdoor projector

When considering the best outdoor projectors for our recommendations, we relied on our experience with home-theater projectors. Also, we reached out to professionals in the TV and AV worlds to discuss their favorite projector brands and the types of specs they care about when shopping. We read trade journals and websites, sifting through reviews to get the impressions of typical users. We narrowed our selection of projectors down to 10, focusing on image quality. Color, contrast, and resolution were all taken into account. Balanced against these specs were features making the projector most suited to outdoor use, including brightness, portability, and versatility. Price was an important factor, especially regarding “bang for your buck,” though it wasn’t of primary concern when judging the higher-end categories of projectors. 

The best outdoor projectors: Reviews & Recommendations

Shopping for outdoor projectors can be tricky, filled with jargon, numbers, and an endless parade of acronyms. If you want the most out of your home-theater experience, there’s much to learn, especially when hosting backyard movie night. So read on for guidance in choosing the best outdoor projectors to watch the stars under the stars.

Best overall: BenQ TK850

BenQ

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: True 4K resolution, excellent picture quality, and a relatively lightweight build make this projector our top choice despite a higher price tag.  

Specs

• Brightness: 3,000 ANSI Lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 30,000:1
• Weight: 9.8 pounds

Pros

• Native 4K resolution
• Lightweight design that’s easy to carry outdoors
• 10-bit HDR processing

Cons

• Expensive

The TK850 continues BenQ’s reputation for making excellent home theater projectors with a true UHD DLP unit that’s bright enough for outdoor use even under higher ambient light levels. The 30,000:1 contrast ratio isn’t the highest we’ve seen. However, it still delivers detailed blacks and lush colors (covering the DCI-P3 color space), thanks in no small part to the high-end 10-bit HDR (High Dynamic Range) processor and 12-bit imaging processor, plus a dynamic iris. The high-lumen projector’s lens array features 10 individual elements—the glass inside the lens—that work to increase color, brightness, and sharpness. The image size can be a nice, theatrical-feeling 300 inches. 

Lots of projectors in the TK850’s price range have great specs, but BenQ’s 4K projector hits above its weight class—literally. At only 9.8 pounds, it’s a cinch to move movie night from the living room out to the deck. Vertical lens shift and keystone correction work alongside the 1.3x zoom lens to make positioning the projector easier. The built-in 10-watt CinemaMaster Audio+2 speakers are good enough that, at least with smaller events, you won’t need to run external speakers. Connect your media—whether a Blu-ray player, computer, Fire or Roku TV stick, or set-top streaming box—via two HDMI ports or a USB 3.0 data input (so don’t forget those HDMI cables). Or pay an extra $100 for a model with built-in Android TV. If you’re looking for the best outdoor projector for gaming, consider the BenQ X1300i.

Best HD: Epson Home Cinema 3800

Epson

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Why it made the cut: This ultra-bright HD projector delivers a cinema-like picture with brilliant colors and deep blacks even when it’s not completely dark. 

Specs

• Brightness: 3,000 ANSI Lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 100,000:1
• Weight: 15.2 pounds

Pros

• Accurate color
• Can display 4K content using pixel shifting
• Easy-to-adjust settings
• Wide variety of inputs

Cons

• Expensive
• Somewhat heavy

The Epson 3800 projector is an excellent outdoor choice for anyone who doesn’t need native 4K resolution but still wants a large, movie-theater-quality picture. And with a contrast ratio of 100,000:1 and 10-bit HDR color processing, this 3LCD projector will give you deep blacks and bold colors (100% of the RGB color signal) on a screen up to 300 inches from corner to corner. 

What’s more, the 3800 can still deliver a 4K image—sort of. While its native resolution is 1920 x 1080, it uses a technology called pixel shifting to interpolate the missing pixels and fill out a full UHD frame. Is it perfect? No, and at the maximum screen size some loss of sharpness has been reported. But at, say, 150-200 inches, issues become much less noticeable. 

At 14.1 pounds, the projector isn’t as heavy as units meant to live permanently in a media room, but it’s also not a complete lightweight. The same could be said for this smart projector’s $1,700 price tag, which is a bit high for an HD unit. On the other hand, the superb picture quality and ability to play 4K movies without having to down-res them to HD are worth the extra bucks for this high-quality projector. The Epson also features dual HDMI 2.0 ports, dual USB ports, dual 10-watt speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity for easy integration into any media environment.

Best portable: Anker Nebula Solar

NEBULA

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Why it made the cut: Lightweight, battery-powered, and featuring built-in Android TV, this projector travels easily and delivers a strong picture despite a relatively low brightness rating. 

Specs

• Brightness: 400 ANSI Lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1
• Weight: 3.1 pounds

Pros

• Very lightweight
• Up to three hours of battery life
• Built-in Android TV
• Native HD resolution but can accept 4K inputs

Cons

• Picture suffers in ambient light
• Color accuracy could be better

This 3.1-pound, battery-powered projector is built for on-the-go use. Fully charged, it runs for 1 1/2 hours in Standard mode and 3 hours in Battery mode—albeit with a dip in brightness. That’s usually enough for a couple of episodes of your favorite series or one movie. And don’t worry about carrying media around with you because the built-in Android TV includes apps to connect to all the major streaming services (though you’ll need access to a WiFi network and a Google account). Built-in dual 3-watt speakers can handle Dolby Digital Plus encoded audio and are loud enough for a decent-sized screening out on the lawn, though the sound quality could be better. 

The Solar Portable accepts 4K signals and down-converts them to its native 1080p resolution. In HD mode, colors were nuanced (if just a bit off), and shadows maintained a lot of detail, even in dark scenes. However, 4K content requires some contrast adjustment and never improves on the 1080p image. Also, while the projector is bright enough to deliver a nice 180-inch image, don’t expect to go much larger without the picture starting to go soft. 

When considering a projector like the Solar Portable, it’s all about weighing priorities. You might be giving up a larger image and a bit of color accuracy, but you’ll gain the portability that could have you watching movies in unique places like a treehouse, the middle of a field, or on a hill where you first proposed to your spouse. A combination of factors makes this outdoor movie projector one of our favorite portable projectors.

Best for daylight: Anker Nebula Cosmos Laser 4K Projector

Anker

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This 4K UHD laser projector provides images you can watch in daylight with built-in Android TV, two 10-watt speakers, and a handle that lets you easily transport it.

Specs

• Brightness: 1,840 ANSI Lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 1,500,000:1 dynamic 
• Weight: 10.7 pounds

Pros

• Impressive brightness
• 3840 x 2160 display resolution 
• 4K laser system
• Built-in Android TV

Cons

• Expensive

For those looking to create a cinematic experience in all kinds of light, the Nebula Cosmos Laser 4K Projector can help you do it. The 4K UHD laser projector comes equipped with 1,840 ANSI Lumens and 3840 x 2160 display resolution for a bright and vivid picture even on a sunny day. Outdoor projector setup is easy for this model, which is available in 1080p and 4K versions. The Nebula Cosmos is also designed with intelligent technology that allows it to adapt to the environment for a display of up to 150 inches. This daylight projector also has two 10-watt speakers and two 5-watt tweeters, creating an immersive sound experience. 

The built-in Android 10 TV provides access to more than 400,000 movies and 7,000 apps and streaming services. And it’s designed with an ergonomic handle that lets you easily move it from the living room to the backyard. That said, the lack of battery and corded electric power will be a factor in the settings in which you can use this projector.

Best for rooftops: Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12

Epson

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Why it made the cut: This small and light projector is easy to lug up a few flights of stairs but comes in heavy with its picture quality and built-in Android TV. 

Specs

• Brightness: 1,000 ANSI Lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 200,000:1
• Weight: 4.7 pounds

Pros

• Native 1080p resolution
• Supports 4K media (down-converted to HD)
• 3-chip LCD avoids rainbow artifacts
• Built-in Android TV
• Excellent speakers

Cons

• No 3D support
• Could be brighter

Movies on the rooftop in the summer—what could be more fun? The EpiqVision Mini EF12 is small and light enough to perch on even the highest roof and delivers a gorgeous 1080p picture once you’re there. The integrated Android TV means you don’t have to go back downstairs to grab a Blu-ray player, and the built-in 5-watt Yamaha stereo speakers save you a trip for extra audio. The 1,000-lumen MicroLaser light source is bright enough for a 140-inch outdoor projector screen if it’s really dark out. Still, it’s more reasonable to expect 80 inches on most neighborhood rooftops awash in light pollution. Thanks to the projector’s 200,000:1 contrast ratio, colors are nicely saturated, and shadow details pop. Three-chip LCD technology displays 100 percent of the RGB color range. Besides the built-in streaming functions, the EpiqVision Mini also has two HDMI inputs for external players. 

Best for streaming: XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro Mini Projector

XGIMI

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This lightweight mini projector is Full HD (1080p), has Android TV 11 built-in, and can work with Netflix.

Specs

• Brightness: 400 ISO lumens
• Contrast Ratio: Not available
• Weight: 4.6 pounds

Pros

• Full HD (1080p)
• Android TV 11 built-in
• Lightweight

Cons

• Doesn’t provide as much brightness as other models

The XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro Mini Projector makes it easy to stream your favorites. This mini projector comes internet-ready with Android TV 11 built-in, providing quick access to over 5,000 apps, including Paramount+ and HBO Max (and you can use a streaming device or contact customer service to watch Netflix.) At 4.6 pounds, this wireless projector is designed for portability and just requires two AAA batteries to operate. 

The MoGo Pro 2 supports HDR 10 and features intelligent screen adaption technology that automatically adjust to the viewing space. It’s also 3D-ready. And its two 8-watt speakers work with Dolby Audio for quality sound. That said, it’s not as bright as some other models.

Best budget: GooDee Video Projector 2022

GooDee

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Why it made the cut: Despite some flaws, this projector impressed with its 1080p native resolution and a wide variety of inputs—all for about a 10th of the cost of our top picks.

Specs

• Brightness: 300 ANSI lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 3,000:1
• Weight: 5 pounds

Pros

• True HD resolution
• Dual 3-watt speakers
• Incredibly inexpensive

Cons

• No control for display size
• Hard to adjust the unit height
• No wireless connectivity

The most recent upgrade to the GooDee projector raises the native resolution from 1280 x 768 to full 1080p, a welcome upgrade that improves picture sharpness. A 300-lumen LED doesn’t provide the most light, but the projector can still create a 200-inch picture with respectable color and contrast—thanks in part to a 3,000:1 contrast ratio. It won’t win any awards for the picture quality, but considering that all this is delivered for less than $200, it’s an impressive device.

Expect some compromises at this price when purchasing a budget-friendly projector, however. For one thing, the projector doesn’t perform well with ambient light; wait until the sun is truly down before starting your movie. It also suffers from a dearth of adjustment controls. For instance, you’ll need to move the projector closer or farther from the screen to make the picture bigger or smaller. But the wealth of connectivity and dual 3-watt speakers add to the convenience and value.

Things to consider before buying the best outdoor projector

Projectors shine light on a surface that reflects the light back to our eyes. That means using a projector with a plain, white wall isn’t going to deliver the best picture because too much light gets absorbed by the paint. For the optimal viewing experience, you need to buy a screen—which can run from around $25 to a little over $100, depending on sizes, stands, and accessories. These have reflective surfaces that increase perceived brightness, contrast, and color saturation—all of which our top picks for best outdoor projectors deliver. 

Luminosity

Brightness, measured in ANSI lumens, is one of the most important specs for an outdoor projector. This describes how much light the projector creates. The more light, the bigger and brighter the picture. It also determines how dark a space needs to be for the best projector performance. Since outdoor projectors can’t take advantage of blackout curtains to fight ambient light from a full moon or from inside your neighbor’s home, putting out as much light as possible has distinct benefits. High-end projectors have brightness ratings of 2400 lumens or more, while less-expensive machines deliver somewhat less. While manufacturer claims don’t always match independent testing, the numbers are useful for making general comparisons—a 3,000-lumen projector will be about three times brighter than a 1000-lumen one. Remember, you can’t ever go wrong with more light but brightness isn’t the only specification that matters when selecting a projector. 

Let there be light

Images are created by focusing a light source onto a chip, and that image is then sent through a lens to your screen. Light sources come in three varieties: Lasers, LEDs, and Ultra High Pressure (UHP) lamps. UHPs are most common in mid-range and higher-end projectors and are essentially high-end light bulbs. Yes, they’re bright, but they also generate a lot of heat and, over time, can burn out. Replacements aren’t cheap, though you won’t have to swap out UHPs anywhere near as often as you might have replaced the old incandescent bulbs in your hallway. LEDs and lasers are far more efficient than UHPs, but there’s a significant increase in cost vs. performance, and they’re usually built into high-end models. 

Chips

As mentioned above, projectors use imaging chips to create a picture, and there are three types: Digital Light Processing (DLP), Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), and Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS). DLP chips find a home in units at all different price points and deliver average contrast and nice color. Sometimes units will use one DLP chip, while sometimes they use three: one each for the Red, Green, or Blue colors that make up an image. LCD chips can be found on budget to mid-range projectors and often have better color than DLP projectors, but contrast ratios sometimes suffer. Lastly, LCoS chips are used in mid- to high-end projectors; they tend to deliver the best picture quality overall, but cost more.

Single-DLP projectors sometimes suffer from what’s known as “the rainbow effect,” where bright objects on the screen leave very quick, multicolored pixel trails behind them. Many people don’t even notice these artifacts, which is why thousands of single-DLP projectors have been sold and continue to sell. Some people simply aren’t bothered by them. If you have an opportunity to test a single-DLP projector at a store, consider doing so in order to gauge how you feel about the rainbow effect should you encounter it. 

Contrast ratio

Another aspect of picture quality is contrast ratio, or the difference between the black and white output. This is usually expressed as a number representing black followed by a number representing white, with each separated by a colon. So, for instance, something like 15,000:1. 

The greater the difference between black and white, the more color variation the projector displays. An image from a projector with an 18,000:1 contrast ratio will, in most cases, look better than one with a 3,500:1 contrast ratio, with bolder, more true-to-life colors, subtler gradients, and richer blacks. Remember, though, contrast isn’t the only factor in determining picture quality, so always look at the number in the context of all the unit’s specs.  

Resolution

Resolution describes the number of pixels that make up a digital image. A high-definition image is 1920 pixels wide by 1080 pixels high—we often simply call this 1080p. A 4K image (also called Ultra High Definition, or UHD) is twice as large, at 3840 pixels wide (close enough to 4000 to earn the name 4K). The higher the resolution, the sharper the image at large sizes.

A projector that can display a 4K image is wonderful and, since these units also play HD media, you’re covered for whether you’re streaming the latest Marvel movie in ultra high def or you’ve dug out an older Blu-ray. At the same time, many HD projectors use a technology called pixel-shifting to double the 1920 resolution. It’s not perfect, but many people won’t notice the difference, and these projectors cost less money. Also, the resolution isn’t the only factor determining picture quality; many movies look fantastic in HD, especially if you’re not blowing up the picture to monumental proportions. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best outdoor projectors

• Best overall: BenQ TK850
• Best HD: Epson Home Cinema 3800
• Best portable: Anker Nebula Solar
• Best for daylight: Anker Nebula Cosmos Laser 4K Projector
• Best for rooftops: Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12
• Best for streaming: XGIMI MoGo 2 Pro Mini Projector
• Best budget: GooDee Video Projector 2022

Choosing the best outdoor projector isn’t too different than choosing the best projector for your home. To capture that cinema experience, you want one that delivers a large picture with bold colors and rich blacks. On top of that, it needs to be bright enough to overpower ambient light and mobile enough to move in and out of the house easily. A tall order, but one we think the BenQ TK850 accomplishes with ease. We also really like Epson’s Home Cinema 3800 and EpiqVision Mini EF12, but the 3800 costs nearly as much as the BenQ while pixel-shifting to achieve a 4K picture. Meanwhile, the EpiqVision Mini EF12—though lighter and cheaper—also uses pixel shifting and is much less bright than the other two. All three have strengths to recommend them, though, depending on your needs and viewing habits.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best outdoor projectors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Samsung Q60A		SEE IT	The Samsung Q60A features plenty of high-end features and a fantastic 4K QLED panel.
Best OLED		LG C2		SEE IT	The LG C1 is one of our favorite TVs, no matter the size.
Best budget		TCL 4-Series (40S435)		SEE IT	The TCL 40S435 is a no-frills option with plenty of features for less than $300.

While big TVs typically get all of the attention at the store and in buying guides, sometimes a 40-inch TV fits just right into your space. Manufacturers are prioritizing 50-, 55-, and 65-inch models over smaller sets, limiting options for those of us looking for the best 40-inch TVs. As nice as it would be to own an 85-inch big screen, we don’t all have the space—or the money—to invest in a panel the size of a mattress. That said, there are still plenty of big brands putting good small TVs out there, such as Samsung and LG. These sets have all the same features as the larger models and don’t demand such high prices. Whether you’re looking to outfit your office, or simply prefer to keep your entertainment center small, these are the best 40-inch TV models we think you should look at today.

• Best overall: Samsung Q60A
• Best for gaming: Samsung QN90A
• Best OLED: LG C2
• Best designer: Samsung The Frame
• Best budget: TCL 4-Series

How we picked the best 40-inch TVs

I have over a decade of experience reviewing tech gear for sites like TechnoBuffalo, XDA Developers, iMore, and Android Central. During that time, I tested TVs, tablets, and mobile phones—basically any device with a screen. When I’m not testing products, I’m probably relaxing in front of a TV, watching my favorite movies, or playing video games. The PopSci staff also has extensive experience testing and reviewing TVs and provided insight for this guide, which we combined with critical reviews and user impressions to identify the best brands and models.

To find the best 40-inch TVs, I looked for ones that feature a healthy balance of features, price, and technology. That includes specialty features we typically associate with the larger TVs, but are often in smaller high-end models, including HDMI 2.1, HDR, and Smart TV platforms. Just because a TV is considered “small,” doesn’t mean it is any less mighty.

The best 40-inch TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

The best 40-inch TVs run the gamut from value-driven models that offer up fantastic prices to high-end models that will cost you a pretty penny but feature all the bells and whistles we look for in larger premium TVs. There’s no need to compromise on picture quality, just because you don’t have the room (or the need) for a big screen.

Best overall: Samsung Q60A

Samsung

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Samsung’s Q60A offers the features, picture quality, and price to make it one of the best TVs of this size.

Specs

• Size: 43”
• Display: QLED 4K
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 3, USB 2.0 x 2

Pros

• Excellent contrast
• Great upscaling
• Fantastic QLED display

Cons

• No local dimming
• So-so viewing angles

Samsung’s Q60A is a 43-inch powerhouse that more than keeps up with its larger siblings. The 4K QLED panel features HDR10+ support, an updated version of the format similar to Dolby Vision. It’s vibrant with incredible contrast and great brightness, which makes for a great viewing experience even in a room with a lot of ambient light.

The Q60A offers three HDMI 2.1 ports, despite the fact that it doesn’t feature a 120Hz refresh rate. (You’d have to pay an extra $300 for the Q70A line to get it.) It does, however, support 4K upscaling, which will artificially enhance lower-resolution content to bring it closer to the 4K experience.

The Q60A includes a Smart TV platform powered by Samsung’s Tizen, so you can easily access streaming services like Netflix, and you get support for Amazon Alexa Google voice assistants. Samsung’s TV also features one of the slimmest designs in a TV of this class, with a depth of just 1-inch without the stand.

Best for gaming: Samsung QN90A

Samsung

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Samsung QN90A supports next-gen gaming features while showcasing QLED technology.

Specs

• Size: 43”
• Display: QLED 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 3, HDMI 2.0 x 1, USB 2.0 x 2, Ethernet, Headphone Jack

Pros

• Thin, gorgeous design
• Game-specific enhancements
• Low input lag

Cons

• Only one HDMI 2.1 port
• Expensive

Samsung’s QN90A is a MiniLED powered QLED TV that produces excellent picture quality. One of our favorite TVs for gaming, it delivers great brightness, contrast, and local dimming, and it also offers highly precise color—things you want when watching a movie or playing video games.

Speaking of video games, the QN90A includes gaming features for players on Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 owners, including 120Hz and variable refresh rate support. It also supports Samsung’s new Game Bar feature, which makes it easy to access and change video features, including the aspect ratio for a more cinematic experience. The one downside–there’s only one HDMI 2.1 port, so you will need to swap your consoles in when you want to play games in 4K at 120 frames per second. We wouldn’t consider that to be a deal-breaker, but it’s certainly an inconvenience. All in all, Samsung’s TV provides an excellent picture and support for the features gamers want.

Best OLED: LG C2

LG

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Why it made the cut: The LG C1 offers one of the best OLED displays on the market with plenty of great features.

Specs

• Size: 42”
• Display: OLED 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB 2.0 x 2, Ethernet

Pros

• Amazing picture
• Gorgeous design
• HDMI 2.1

Cons

• So-so brightness
• Expensive

The LG C2 is, simply put, one of our favorite TVs. LG’s elite OLED panel generates an absolutely incredible image with deep, vibrant colors and true blacks only an OLED can achieve. It is very expensive, especially compared to other TVs this size, but you’ll see the money you spend in every show you watch. This is technically last year’s model, and while the newer C3 adds some upgrades, we still think the C2 is the right buy when you consider its current lower price and how close it is in features and quality to the C3.

As one of LG’s best, the C2 features all the bells and whistles that you want for gaming and other premium home theater setups, including 120Hz refresh rate, G-Sync and FreeSync variable refresh rate support, and four HDMI 2.1 ports.

There are a couple of helpful automatic modes, too: Filmmaker Mode and Game Optimizer mode. The former turns off motion smoothing and wrangles in the colors for the most accurate image the TV can produce. The Game Optimizer mode puts all your game settings in one place, allowing users to quickly toggle picture settings, refresh rate, and aspect ratio.

Best designer: Samsung’s The Frame

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The Frame by Samsung features a stylish alternative design that fits its 43-inch form factor well.

Specs

• Size: 43”
• Display: QLED 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 3, HDMI 2.1, USB 2.0 x 2, Ethernet

Pros

• Elegant design
• Easily blends with decor
• Beautiful QLED display

Cons

• Pricey
• Can be difficult to mount

Have you ever wished your TV could disappear when you aren’t using it? The Frame, one of Samsung’s “lifestyle” TVs, can masquerade as a piece of art to let you style your space without building it around a TV.

The Frame features a motion sensor that triggers “Art Mode” when entering the room, which displays over 1,400 new and classic works of art when the TV isn’t in use. You can also display your own media, such as pictures, to give The Frame a more personal touch.

The Frame is more than an elegant design, though. The 4K QLED screen produces a great picture, with 4K scaling. To maintain the seamless “Frame” effect, it connects to devices via a connection box that supports HDMI and Ethernet and can be placed up to 16 feet away. If you’re looking for something more unique and stylish, Samsung’s The Frame is the perfect option.

Best budget: TCL 4-Series

TCL

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Why it made the cut: If you want a decent TV on a budget, the TCL 40S435 is a great choice.

Specs

• Size: 43”
• Display: LED 4K
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 3, USB 2.0, Ethernet, Headphone Jack

Pros

• Very affordable
• Excellent 4K display
• Roku TV

Cons

• No HDMI 2.1

For $259.99, the TCL 4-Series is an easy choice if you don’t want to spend a lot of money. It’s not the most advanced 4K display on the market, but at this size, and at this price, it more than gets the job done to enjoy your favorite shows and video games.

While it doesn’t have many advanced features, the 4-Series features the Roku operating system, so it feels like there’s a streaming device built in. TCL rose to prominence in large part because of its Roku TVs, and it’s easy to see why when you get an experience like this for such a low price.

It isn’t entirely devoid of tricks, though. For example, the TCL 4-Series features a companion smartphone app, so you can control the TV without tracking down the remote. You also get three HDMI ports, so you can hook up a video game console, and a USB port for hooking up external media.

Things to consider before buying a 40-inch TV

The best 40-inch TVs are great for compact spaces like bedrooms, dorms, and smaller living rooms. They’re also good for people looking to spend less on a high-quality TV, as screen size plays a large role in TV pricing. Aside from a couple of prestigious exceptions, you can often find a 40-inch TV for under $500. (Many of our picks, however, cost a bit more.)

Resolution and high-dynamic range (HDR)

The higher resolution your TV, the sharper and more detailed the image looks. Almost all modern TVs output at 4K resolution. You can still find older budget 40-inch models limited to Full HD (1080p), but we don’t recommend buying one. Frankly, the difference in price should be very low, and buying a 4K model will ensure the TV remains viable for a longer time. 

Likewise, there are no 8K TVs available in small sizes yet. We also generally don’t recommend buying an 8K TV yet, as there’s very little content available at that resolution.

Many newer TVs also support a display technology called high-dynamic range, or HDR. HDR allows TVs to show a wider range of brightness on-screen, allowing for nuanced depictions of extremely bright and low-light situations. Imagine a scene at night with a headlamp as the only light source. HDR technology can better display those scenarios. There are two primary HDR standards: HDR10 and Dolby Vision. All HDR-compliant TVs support HDR10 but only some models support the dynamically shifting Dolby Vision.

QLED and OLED

If you’re looking for the best of the best, there are two premium display technologies that stand apart from traditional LED displays. Picking an OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) versus QLED (Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diode) display will both enhance the quality picture of your TV, often while jacking up the price. If you’d like an in-depth explanation of the technology and recommendations for the best displays with that specific tech, we recommend checking out our in-depth guides to the best OLED TVs and the best QLED TVs. 

For now, let’s just say QLED and OLED TVs are more expensive than conventional LED TVs, especially at this size. They are usually the best option available, which is why you’ll see them on this list, but do not reflect the potential savings you can find by shopping for a smaller TV.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate is an important spec if you play games on PS5 and Xbox Series X, or watch a lot of sports. Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), tells you how many times your TV can “redraw” its image per second, allowing for higher frame rates in games and TV shows. Until about two years, most TVs maxed out at 60Hz, but some newer TVs support a higher, 120Hz refresh rate, allowing compatible games and shows to run more smoothly. At this juncture, a high refresh rate is only a notable feature if you have or want a new game console.

As we cover in our in-depth guide, you will need to plug your consoles or other devices into HDMI 2.1 ports (with appropriately compatible HDMI cables) to access higher refresh rates at 4K resolution. Any TV that supports 120Hz will have at least one HDMI 2.1 input among its connection options, but obviously more is always better.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 40-inch TVs

A 40-inch TV is a great fit for small living rooms, bedrooms, and secondary spaces like workshops and guest rooms. It’s also a good starting point if you’re replacing a very old TV and don’t want to spend too much money.

More affordable than their larger siblings, the best 40-inch TVs make it a little more affordable to get the best new features. They also make it possible to spend a lot less money if you just want something that works. As always, we recommend picking a TV that fits your space. For a lot of people, what manufacturers call small, we call the perfect size.

The post The best 40-inch TVs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best outdoor		Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna		SEE IT	A solid workhorse that should be more than powerful enough.
Best indoor		Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro		SEE IT	Easily installed in a high corner with great range for an indoor antenna.
Best overall		Antop AT-800SBS-J HD Smart Panel Antenna		SEE IT	It has a long range and a 4G LTE blocker to minimize signal interference.

As cord-cutters are abandoning cable in droves for the ever-expanding world of digital subscriptions, one underdog technology making an unexpected comeback is the humble TV antenna. Netflix and Crunchyroll aren’t going to carry your local news or sports, but fortunately, your local stations are still providing them for free, in the air all around you! The quality of over-air images has continued to go up ever since switching from analog to digital, so it’s quite a bit better than your memories of futzing with set-top rabbit ears to find hints of coherence in the static. Just like setting up Wi-Fi within your home, the spatial nature of over-the-air television means you’ll need to be deliberate about your antenna choice and placement to get the most bang for your buck. Fortunately, we’ve done all that research for you and are here to walk you through everything you need to know to pick one of the best TV antennas for your home.

• Best overall: Antop AT-800SBS-J HD Smart Panel Antenna
• Best for outdoors: Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna
• Best for indoors: Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro
• Best long-range: Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna
• Best budget: 1byone Digital Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna

How we chose the best TV antennas

With so many different particular needs to address, there isn’t really a single “best” TV antenna for that new OLED or QLED TV beaming entertainment into your home. We made our selections based on professional and consumer impressions, intending to cultivate a range of options that should suit the needs of most TV viewers in the United States, including options that will suit homes or apartments, rural areas or urban living, and more. These TV antenna reviews will help you find the best model for your needs.

The best TV antennas: Reviews & Recommendations

The best TV antennas are more powerful and accessible than ever. If you’re new to OTA television after a lifetime of cable or streaming and looking for an antenna for local channels, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how it looks. No matter your budget or needs, the best TV antenna to complete your setup is very likely here among the choices we’ve collected.

Best overall: Antop AT-800SBS-J HD Smart Panel Antenna

Antop Antenna Inc

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Why it made the cut: Antop’s indoor/outdoor AT-800SBS-J antenna is a versatile performer at a premium price.

Specs

• Range: 85 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Indoor/Outdoor
• Gain: N/A
• Size: 6 inches L x 10 inches W x 22 inches H

Pros

• Flexible indoor or outdoor configuration
• Includes both indoor stand and outdoor mounting pole
• Great reception

Cons

• Bulky
• Expensive

Antop’s AT-800SBS HD Smart Panel Antenna is one of the best-performing indoor/outdoor versatile antennas, making it our pick for best overall. This HD TV antenna has a long range, particularly for an indoor model, and has a 4G LTE blocker to minimize signal interference. When placed inside, the white box with protruding poles on either side seems a little gaudy. When mounted on a roof, it’s one of the nicer-looking antennas, though. This digital TV antenna is expensive, but it provides unparalleled flexibility and high performance.

Best for outdoor: Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna

Antennas Direct

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Why it made the cut: The Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie is a large, powerful, versatile outdoor antenna fit for almost anyone’s needs.

Specs

• Range: 70 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Attic/Outdoor
• Gain: 17.4Dbi
• Size: 36 inches L x 6 inches W x 48 inches H

Pros

• Great performance
• Flexibility from multiple aimable panels
• Lifetime warranty on parts

Cons

• Large
• Includes mounting hardware but requires mount and coaxial cable

Antennas Direct’s 8-Element Bowtie antenna is a solid workhorse that should be more than powerful enough for most people who have the space to mount it in an attic or, ideally, on the roof. Its eight separate antenna elements are split between four reflecting panels on two independently rotating shafts. These can be either aimed at a single target to better capture signals from a particular direction or spread out to catch a wider range. With a maximum range of 70 miles, 17.4 dBi gain, and flexible configuration, this outside TV antenna is a powerful all-purpose option. However, it requires some additional hardware to mount and connect fully.

Best for indoors: Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro

Mohu

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Why it made the cut: Substantially larger than most of its indoor competition, the Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro stands out with great performance and convenient installation.

Specs

• Range: 65 miles
• UHF/VHF: UHF, Hi-V
• Installation: Indoor
• Gain: N/A
• Size: 21.5 inches L x 0.5 inches W x 12 inches H

Pros

• Easy setup
• Great performance
• Detachable cable

Cons

• Larger than comparable indoor antennas

Mohu is one of the biggest manufacturers of indoor TV antennas for a reason. The Leaf Supreme Pro measures a commanding 12 x 21.5 inches, so it’s hard to ignore its presence. It’s a very thin, flat panel, though, so it can be easily installed in a high corner and features reversible black and white sides to make it as discreet as possible. The coaxial cable is also conveniently detachable, meaning you can avoid an unsightly wire going up your wall when you’re not actually using it.

On the plus side, this antenna for smart TV gets great range for an indoor antenna and comes with a separate, USB-powered amplifier that noticeably improves performance. Thin, flat indoor antennas generally don’t do quite as well as their outdoor counterparts, but this wireless antenna for TV gets pretty close without many tradeoffs.

Best long-range: Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna

Five Star

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Why it made the cut: Five Star’s outdoor antenna reaches further than most, providing a fantastic range at a very reasonable price.

Specs

• Range: 200 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Outdoor
• Gain: 15 – 35 dB (boosted)
• Size: 17 inches L x 8 inches W x 7 inches H

Pros

• Fantastic long-range performance
• 360-degree motorized coverage
• Mounting pole and hardware included

Cons

• Not the simplest assembly process

In search of the best indoor TV antenna 100 mile range? The Five Star Outdoor Digital Antenna boasts 200-mile, 360-degree coverage and the hardware to back it up. It features six reflector elements spread across three poles on a motorized spoke, which can eke out as much coverage as possible. It includes wiring and hardware for attaching up to five televisions, perfect for a large, remote home. It conveniently also includes a mounting pole. It requires a bit more assembly than other options, but you get a lot of coverage for your time and effort. 

Best budget: 1byone Digital Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna

1 BY ONE

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: 1byone’s Digital Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna is inexpensive and barebones but solid if you just need the minimum.

Specs

• Range: 50 miles
• UHF/VHF: Both
• Installation: Indoor
• Gain: 28 dB
• Size: 13.6 inches L x 10 inches W x 2.4 inches H

Pros

• Cheap
• Picks up nearby signals well

Cons

• Does deliver on advertised range
• Black on both sides and can’t be painted

For less than $30, 1byone’s Digital Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna is a very good bargain for a short-range indoor antenna. The consensus from trusted sites and critics suggests that it works great for apartment dwellers living in or nearby cities. It’s also a regular Amazon bestseller at 3.9/5 with over 14,000 reviews because it’s a cheap antenna that does the job, which is all a lot of people need. Despite a perhaps overly bold Amazon listing boasting a 200-mile range—an unrealistic claim for an indoor antenna—the 1byone works very well within the manufacturer-stated reasonable 50-mile range. That should be more than enough if you just want free TV with antenna to get channels and don’t care about maxing out range or extra features that make it easier to hide.

What to consider before buying one of the best TV antennas

TV antennas are very simple to set up and use, but picking one and TV antenna installation requires a little advanced planning. At the very least, you should know whether you want an indoor or outdoor TV antenna. Traditional, roof-mounted outdoor antennas are substantially more powerful for picking up station signals over a wider range but require permanent installation on your roof or another high place and require outdoor cable management. It takes some work and isn’t an option for most renters and apartment dwellers.

If an outdoor antenna isn’t feasible, smaller wall- and window-mounted indoor TV antennas must be fastened to a high spot in your space. They offer a shorter range but are far more discreet and easy to install. Indoor antennas are almost all omnidirectional because all the local interference of walls and windows tends to even out any benefit you might get from a targeted antenna like one would on their roof.

What do you want to watch?

TV antennas can only pick up local broadcast channels. For most of the United States, an antenna should catch local affiliates of FOX, CBS, ABC, NBC, The CW, and PBS, which all reach over 95% of American homes. In addition, some areas may have broadcast channels like Ion, Telemundo, and MeTV, as well as various public access stations. The number of channels you can find with an antenna will vary widely depending on where you are, with more options as you get closer to a major city.

If you want to find out antenna TV channels by zip code, there are several free tools online, including AntennaWeb and DTV Reception Maps from the Federal Trade Commission. Input your address, and you can find what stations are nearby, and what kind of antenna you’ll need to watch them. They also include maps of when the signals are actually broadcast, which can be important for some outdoor antennas.

Won’t the image quality be bad, though?

If you’ve ever watched a TV with built-in “bunny ear” antennas, you might assume that a broadcast TV signal will come in faded, with crackly black and white static (like the opening line of Neuromancer). Fortunately, things have changed drastically since then. In 2009, the U.S. government mandated that TV stations transition from analog to digital broadcasting. As many cord-cutters have been pleasantly surprised to learn, digital signals broadcast over the air are often less compressed than the versions sent over landline by cable services. Major networks broadcast over the air (OTA) in Full HD, or 1080p, and many users claim their broadcast channels come in with brighter, crisper images and sound. You can find an HD free unlimited antenna to pick up those signals.

Why is this happening? Both cable and OTA transmissions will degrade over long distances, and cable signals often have to cover a much longer distance than your local station’s broadcast. Cable offers more channels, of course, but broadcast still has some utility.

Range and gain

There are two major specs you want to consider when looking at TV antennas: range and gain. An antenna’s maximum indicates how far away it can be from a station to pick up a broadcast signal. Generally speaking, having a higher range is always better. That said, some antennas boasting very high ranges achieve those stats using built-in signal amplifiers, which may not deliver stellar picture from stations out on the fringes of their extended ranges.

Gain, expressed in decibels (dB), measures how well a given antenna performs against a standard reference in picking up signals in a particular direction. As expected, a higher listed gain number means better performance, particularly with signals coming from the edges of your antenna’s range.

UHF and VHF

More than an underappreciated 1989 Weird Al vehicle, UHF (ultra-high frequency) and VHF (very-high frequency) are terms you’ll see while antenna shopping. They refer to the bands of frequency on which particular channels are broadcast. Most contemporary channels are on UHF, but there are still VHF broadcasts out there. 

This distinction mostly matters for outdoor antenna users, since most indoor antennas are UHF or combined, but even nominally UHF-only will usually pick up VHF stations regardless. The online tools for finding your local broadcasters mentioned above will include this information about each station. Many antennas are advertised explicitly for both. In general, this is only something you need to worry about if a critical mass of broadcasts you care about are VHF, especially Lo-V.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best TV antennas

• Best overall: Antop AT-800SBS-J HD Smart Panel Antenna
• Best for outdoors: Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna
• Best for indoors: Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro
• Best long-range: Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna
• Best budget: 1byone Digital Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna

If you’re considering joining the cord-cutting wave or have done so and miss your local channels, a TV antenna could be the perfect way to round out your TV setup. The exact type and model you need will depend on several factors, but you can rest assured that there is almost certainly a great option out there for you at a very reasonable price.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best TV antennas for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Samsung Neo QLED QN90C		SEE IT	It produces a bright, vibrant image that’s suitable for all spaces and types of content.
Best budget		Hisense ULED U7H		SEE IT	This TV’s features and image quality perform well above its price.
Best OLED		LG C2		SEE IT	It’s only an 83-inch TV, but its image quality and performance make up for it.

The typical 85-inch TV offers screen real estate bigger than a typical twin mattress. That kind of massive display was strictly for the rich until just a few years ago. Now, massive TVs have gotten a lot more accessible. And while the floor on an 85-inch TV still hovers around $1,600, just imagine how impressive that gigantic screen would look in your living room. The Stranger Things monster would look life-sized. The movie Dune will put out enough light to give you a sun tan (not quite, but it will be really bright). While these TVs are inherently awesome thanks to their big screens, there are some differences between models. You likely don’t need a flagship model to make the most of your viewing experience, so you can probably save thousands of dollars by choosing the right model. These are the best 85-inch TVs we recommend right now.

• Best overall: Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C
• Best budget: Hisense ULED U7H QLED
• Best for gaming: Sony Bravia X90K
• Best OLED: LG C2
• Best LED: ​​SAMSUNG Crystal UHD CU8000 
• Best 8K: Samsung Neo QLED QN900C

How we chose the best 85-inch TVs

I have been writing about TVs and home theater equipment for the better part of two decades. Much of that work has appeared here on PopSci, but I have also covered it for Engadget, Sound & Vision, Men’s Journal, and numerous other publications. 

The selections on this list come from a mix of hands-on testing, spec sheet comparisons, editorial reviews, and user feedback. While we could have simply picked the flagship displays to represent the “best” overall picks, we looked for the optimal mix of image quality, features, and price. Our hands-on testing typically involves testing streaming content (as that’s the most common way to consume content right now), as well as Blu-ray playback and gaming performance tests done with a PlayStation 5. 

The best 85-inch TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re carefully choosing the correct panel for your home theater system or you’re just trying to get a quick reassurance that you’re about to make a solid Black Friday purchase, these picks for the best 85-inch TV have you covered. Be sure to read through them, as there is definitely some overlap between the awards.

Best overall: Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz (up to 144Hz in some cases with a PC)
• Other sizes available: 43”, 50”, 55”, 65”, and 75”
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB, Ethernet, headphone, optical audio out, RF
• Price: $4,499

Pros

• Excellent picture
• Bright enough for any space
• Robust smart TV offerings
• Neo QLED makes for high contrast ratios

Cons

• Ports on the back of the TV instead of Samsung’s remote box
• Pricey

Samsung’s typical QLED displays produce exceptional brightness and excellent color on their own. For its latest generation of Neo QLEDs, however, the company has integrated MiniLED backlighting in order to goose the contrast ratios and allow the TV to take finer control over how objects are rendered on-screen. In short, it’s just a beautiful picture. I spent some time watching Blu-rays and playing PS5 games during my review period and was impressed with the punchy picture that could still handle more subtle imagery without overpowering my eyeballs. Ghostbusters: Afterlife isn’t a great movie, but it does have some fast action scenes with lots of on-screen objects and the QN90C rendered them beautifully. It’s still not quite as precise as OLED, but it’s gettin’ closer.

This display also does an impressive job with sound. We typically always recommend augmenting any TV’s built-in sound with at least a soundbar (if not a full wireless surround sound system). This TV supports Dolby Atmos, and its built-in speakers allow it to localize sound without external equipment. So, if a helicopter is coming in from above, it actually sounds like it’s above everything else on the screen. This effect is cool at any size, but it’s particularly effective with a big 85-inch screen.

While the picture itself is what makes this TV stand out, it’s also flush with features. It offers four HDMI 2.1 ports, and it has a built-in gaming mode for cloud gaming. Perhaps the most impressive extra feature is the anti-glare coating on the screen. Even with an annoying amount of front light hitting the display, the Samsung does an effective job when it comes to combatting glare. If your TV room gets a lot of light, that can make a huge difference. Contrast ratio doesn’t mean much if all you can see is a reflection of your own body sitting on the couch with a bucket of popcorn propped on your gut (which is the official PopSci TV testing position).  

Best budget: Hisense ULED U7H QLED

Hisense

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Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Other sizes available: 55”, 65”, and 75”
• Ports: 4 HDMI (2 of which are 2.1), Ethernet, RF
• Price: $1,699

Pros

• Very affordable
• Excellent picture for the price
• Bright
• Full-array local dimming for better contrast

Cons

• Picture lags behind more expensive sets

You can sometimes find this 85-inch monster of a TV on sale for $1,500. That’s a wild price for a full-featured QLED like this one. The U7H relies on an array of small LEDs for its backlight, which provide precise control over which areas get illumination and which ones don’t. That leads to better overall contrast ratios and more pleasing images. Quantum Dots help pump up the overall brightness. 

It runs on the Google TV platform, which makes it more agnostic than some of the other first-party platforms. It also offers a more intuitive navigation that I find easier to get around than some competitors. 

Dig into the menus and you’ll find the Filmmaker and IMAX Enhanced modes, both of which attempt to make content look as close to the creator’s original intention as possible. The 120Hz refresh rate allows smooth action during sports or video games. But, it’s easy to tone down when you want to watch a movie without it looking like a soap opera. 

This TV really is an excellent mix of performance and features. It was a deal at its original $2,499 price point, but now that it’s often on sale, it’s practically a steal. Hisense technically offers an even more upscale version of this TV in the U8H series, but it has been nearly impossible to find the 85-inch version in-stock anywhere for any price.

Best for gaming: Sony Bravia X90K

Sony

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Other sizes available: 55”, 65”, and 75”
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB, Ethernet, RF
• Price: $1,999

Pros

• Exclusive features for PS5 players
• Short response time
• Excellent upscaling
• Google TV platform
• Modes specially calibrated for Netflix and other applications

Cons

• Not as bright as some other sets

It makes sense that Sony would make solid gaming TVs. After all, the company is responsible for one of the most popular gaming console lines of all time. This LED TV doesn’t rely on Quantum Dots. Instead, it relies on full-array local dimming to use its available brightness to the best of its ability. It can carefully control which areas of the screen get light and which ones don’t. I often find Sony’s picture quality a bit oversharpened and a little harsh for my specific taste, but I was easily able to tone it down during my demo to my specific taste. If you don’t want to do any tweaking, this TV offers specific modes, including various flavors of HDR, IMAX Enhanced mode, and a setting specifically calibrated toward streaming Netflix content. 

Hook up a PS5 to this TV and you unlock a few exclusive features. Those include Auto HDR tone mapping, which increases the overall picture quality and color reproduction that you’ll get from PlayStation 5 games. Auto Genre Switching also keeps tabs on what you’re watching and adjusts its performance to match appropriately. 

Beyond the gaming-specific features, you also get high-end specs that you’d expect from a TV that costs this much. You get HDMI 2.1 ports, Dolby Atmos support, and some of the best upscaling you’ll find, thanks to the powerful built-in processor.

Best OLED: LG C2

LG

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Other sizes available: 42”, 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, and 83” (they don’t technically offer a strict 85-inch TV).
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB, Ethernet, RF
• Price: $4,296

Pros

• Exceptional contrast ratio
• Great color reproduction
• Extremely slim display and attractive design
• Powerful processor for upscaling

Cons

• Not technically 85 inches
• Big OLEDs are still very pricey

OK, so this is technically an 83-inch TV, but you’ll hardly notice those two missing inches thanks to the truly exemplary image quality. The LG C2 is one of the best TVs you can buy at just about any size. It offers the deep black and shadow levels you expect from an OLED, but LG’s OLED Evo tech cranks up the maximum brightness. So, if you’re in a relatively bright room, you can still get an OLED and see what you’re watching before the sun goes down. 

The LG C3 technically debuted in January at CES 2023, but it isn’t a huge leap up from the C2, which you can currently get at a discounted price. You’re really buying an OLED for the contrast ratio, and it’s really hard to improve that much beyond what the C2 offers. 

Of course, you get the full suite of features to go with all that picture quality. LG’s fifth-gen processor offers excellent upscaling, so content looks good even if it’s not native 4K or HDR. You get four HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting data-hungry devices. And the panel itself is absurdly thin, so it’s easy to mount just about anywhere, even when you have a giant size like this.

The LG G3 also deserves a mention here, as it’s a truly excellent TV, but it’s considerably more expensive and won’t necessarily provide a huge noticeable upgrade for most people. It’s likely the best overall OLED, but it’s not the best mix of features for the price as far as this list is concerned. If money is no object, however, ball out with the G3.

Best LED: ​​SAMSUNG Crystal UHD CU8000

Samsung

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Other sizes available: 43”, 50”, 55”, 65”, and 75”
• Ports: 3 HDMI, 2 USB, Ethernet, RF
• Price: $1,695

Pros

• Very affordable even when it’s not on-sale
• Decent specs for the price
• Very good color reproduction
• Easy to mount
• Robust smart TV features

Cons

• Picture is mid compared to higher-end models
• Only 3 HDMI ports

If you’re worried more about size and price than other factors, this relatively barebones 85-inch TV should fit the bill nicely. Its retail price sits well under $2,000, and you can often find it discounted as low as $1,500. 

This is the big-box variant of Samsung’s TVs like the one you’ll see at department stores or price clubs. It relies on the company’s Crystal processor, which does a surprisingly solid job of upscaling lower-resolution content to fit the 4K display. It also does a lovely job with color replication, though its contrast ratio can’t match levels offered by its OLED or QLED competition. There are some other compromises as well. You only get three HDMI ports, and the included feet aren’t very sophisticated in terms of a TV stand. 

But, even with the caveats, this is still a great-looking TV. The panel is slim, the colors are poppy, it’s relatively bright, and there’s a whole lot of screen for not a lot of money. If you’re looking for a big TV on which you can watch movies in a relatively dark room, this will more than meet your needs and leave you with enough cash leftover to get some grub hub. I recommend pairing some Buffalo Wild Wings with the new sci-fi epic Silo on Apple TV+.

Best 8K: Samsung Neo QLED QN900C

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 8K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Other sizes available: 65” and 75”
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB, Optical audio, RF, Ethernet
• Price: $7,999

Pros

• 8K detail is really impressive
• Future proof to an extent
• Powerful image processing
• Great color reproduction
• Ports sit on a remote box for easy installation
• Very skinny bezel

Cons

• Expensive
• No 8K content to really watch

You don’t need an 8K TV, but that may make you want one even more than you already do. An 8K picture contains more than 33 megapixels of information. Right now, very few sources can pump out that much image data at once. Advanced gaming consoles are slowly working their way up to 8K, but it’s going to be a while before streaming content starts making the leap. 

All of that said, Samsung’s 8K TV does look spectacular. It offers the company’s highest-end features. Everything from its connectivity to its image processor represents Samsung’s state-of-the-art tech. That image processor is necessary, too, as it can upscale 4K or even 1080p content all the way up to 8K with impressive accuracy. I spent a few hours streaming and playing PS5 games with it during my review period and was surprised by how effectively the TV took less-than-8K stuff and made it look great on such a high-res display. Horizon: Zero Dawn looked bright, poppy, and sharp with tons of detail. It also didn’t look wildly oversharpened like some TVs do when they’re working hard to upscale an image. 

This is truly a flagship TV, and while it’s definitely expensive and ahead of its time, it will last for years, when 8K may be much more reasonable. So, this is a solid option for anyone looking to really futureproof their purchase. It’s also great for people with money who just want to flex their cool 8K screen, even though it’s somewhat impractical. 

Things to consider when shopping for the best 85-inch TV

Backlight

At this point, just about every TV relies on LEDs for their backlight, but manufacturers use different varieties and configurations to achieve their desired effects. Typical LCD TVs employ LED arrays around the outside edge or across the entire face of the screen. Some manufacturers augment those LEDs with a Quantum Dots layer, amplifying the light output. As a result, these QLEDs typically offer a brighter, punchier picture. 

As Quantum Dot technology has evolved, manufacturers have mixed with me with backlight enhancements like MiniLED and MicroLED. By making the LEDs in the array smaller, the TV can take greater control over contrast on a very localized level while still maintaining excellent brightness, thanks to the Dots. When you see a qualifier like Neo QLED, you can expect this. 

All those TV technologies are considered transmissive as they involve a backlight shining through an LCD panel. OLED, on the other hand, is emissive, which means each pixel creates its own illumination. Organic Light-Emitting Diodes sit behind colored filters and push out the exact amount of light they need. Sometimes they even turn all the way off to create deep blacks in shadowy areas. As a result, OLEDs often produce phenomenal color and exceptional contrast ratios at the cost of overall brightness. OLEDs really are fantastic, but you’ll only find one on this list, as OLEDs don’t typically make it all the way up to 85 inches. They’re also still relatively expensive at normal sizes, so bigger panels can get a bit out of hand financially. 

Refresh rate

Most of the time, you’re going to be choosing between 60Hz and 120Hz when it comes to refresh rate. Higher-end models typically offer the faster 120Hz rate, while more affordable models stick to 60Hz. This stat simply refers to the number of times the on-screen image refreshes. 

The 120Hz displays can create smoother motion, which is great if you’re playing video games or watching sports. If you’re only watching movies and want a typical look for your content, those faster refresh rates may not matter that much at all. 

Some displays can reach all the way up to 144Hz in some specific modes, but that’s really only useful in some gaming situations.

Connectivity

What are you going to plug into your TV? If you’re going to plug in a 4K Blu-ray player, Xbox Series X/S, or PlayStation 5, you’re going to want to max out on HDMI 2.1 ports (and compatible cables) that can handle all the bandwidth they require for high-res playback. At this point, most major TV manufacturers offer a pretty standard selection of ports, but you’ll want to make sure that you have those HDMI 2.1 ports to maximum and future compatibility. 

Platform

Every modern TV is a “smart TV” at this point, but they’re not all equally intelligent or pleasant to use. Both LG and Samsung use their own proprietary smart TV platforms called webOS and Tizen, respectively. Sony often defaults to Google TV, while some manufacturers like TCL rely on the Roku platform. If you’re looking for a TV that doesn’t require an extra box for streaming, make sure you get one with an interface you don’t loathe using.

Resolution

If you’re going all the way up to 85 inches, you’re not going to find any 1080p TVs in current lineups. Just about all the best 85-inch TVs out there are 4K, which makes sense since it’s the current state of the technology. You will find some 8K displays out there, but you won’t find very much native 8K content to watch at all. If you want to futureproof your TV, you can splurge on an 8K set now, but we typically consider it overkill for most people. Though, we are talking about baller TVs here, so if you want to go all out and get an 8K display, then go for it. Just don’t expect to see a glaring difference between its performance and a 4K model on the vast majority of things you watch or play.

FAQs

Final thoughts about the best 85-inch TVs

• Best overall: Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C
• Best for gaming: Sony Bravia X90K
• Best budget: Hisense ULED U7H QLED
• Best OLED: LG C2
• Best LED: ​​SAMSUNG Crystal UHD CU8000 
• Best 8K: Samsung Neo QLED QN900C

It truly is wild how accessible 85-inch TVs have become in recent years. Earlier in my career, a popular electronics manufacturer had me take a car service out to New Jersey to see their 70-inch plasma TV, which cost $22,000 and couldn’t stay on for more than a couple of hours because it would raise the temperature of the room and overheat. Now, you can get an 85-inch TV for less than a tenth of that price, and it comes with free shipping. 

The best 85-inch TVs offer all of the features you want out of a flagship display with enough screen real estate to really show off your favorite content. If you have the room and the cash to make it happen, an 85-inch TV is about as hard as you can ball out on a TV, and we wholeheartedly recommend it.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 85-inch TVs for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		AAXA P7 Mini Projector		SEE IT	A light, bright, mini streaming machine.
Best for movies		Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12		SEE IT	Advanced imaging offers a cinema-like experience.
Best for travel		Anker Nebula Solar		SEE IT	A projector that’s road-worthy and feature-rich.

Mini projectors strike a balance between size, features, price, and image quality. Is it easy to pack big entertainment in a small package? Nope, so when purchasing a mini projector, it’s important to manage your expectations. These units will never match the brightness, resolution, color saturation, contrast, or picture size you get from a full-size projector. On the other hand, try slipping one of those 20-pound monsters into your carry-on bag or using it in a small office or a dorm room. Ideally, the best mini projectors weigh a few pounds or less—sometimes much less—but are bright enough for presentations and to display photos, spec sheets, or whatever else you’d like. 

These small entertainment units often include built-in batteries for truly portable play, and some have Android TV functionality for easy streaming. Integrated speakers are common, and there are often HDMI and USB ports for external media like Blu-ray players, set-top streaming boxes, or USB streaming sticks. Finding the best mini projector that meets your priorities isn’t always easy, so we’ve gathered six of the best mini projectors while also providing some insight into what to look for when you’re shopping.

• Best overall: AAXA P7 Mini Projector
• Best for movies: Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12
• Best for gaming: XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector
• Best pocket-sized: Kodak Luma 450
• Best for travel: Anker Nebula Solar
• Best budget: Kodak Luma 150

How we chose the best mini projectors

When selecting the best mini projectors to include in our recommendations, we relied on our experience with home projectors and we reached out to professionals in the TV and AV worlds to discuss their favorites—as well as the types of specs they care about when shopping. We read trade journals and websites and sifted through online reviews and comments to get the impressions of typical users. We narrowed our selection of projectors down to 10, focusing first and foremost on how the unit balanced image quality against its small, portable size. Color, contrast, and resolution were considered, as were size and weight. Price was an important factor, especially in terms of “bang for your buck,” and additional features—like built-in streaming apps, batteries, and speakers—were evaluated as well.

The best mini projectors: Reviews & Recommendations

A little more compact than some portable projectors, while not as limited in features as a pico projector, the best mini projectors are all-in-one entertainment.

Best overall: AAXA P7 Mini Projector

AAXA

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Why it made the cut: This small, light projector ticks all our boxes with a native 1080p picture, reasonably bright lamp, built-in battery, and an on-board speaker. 

Specs 

• Brightness: 600 lumens
• Size: ‎1.85″ x 1.73″ x 1.06″
• Weight: 1.48 pounds

Pros

• Native 1080p picture
• Included rechargeable battery
• Lots of ports

Cons

• Not 4K

There’s a reason the AAXA P7 Mini Projector is part of our projector coverage. This projector’s DLP lamp delivers a full 1920 x 1080 picture, and its high contrast level produces deep blacks and colors with nice saturation. HDMI and USB-A ports connect the unit to external media players (so don’t forget those HDMI cables).

Its internal battery lasts for 1.5 hours. The internal speaker sounds good, despite being light in the low end. With a brightness of 600 lumens, you get a 120-inch picture before noticing any significant loss of quality.

There are few cons with this mini projector: To watch content from streamers, you’ll need to either connect an HDMI cable or plug in a Google Chromecast. It also doesn’t support 4K. It’s frustrating but not a deal-breaker, given how many other excellent features are present. 

Best for movies: Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12

Epson

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Why it made the cut: Superior contrast, a relatively bright lamp, and advanced imaging technology work to deliver what’s by far the best-looking movies you’ll see from any other projector on this list.  

Specs

• Brightness: 1000 ANSI Lumens
• Size: 6.9” x 6.9” x 5”
• Weight: 4.7 pounds

Pros

• Native 1080p resolution
• Supports 4K media (down-converted to HD)
• 200,000:1 contrast ratio
• Built-in Android TV
• Excellent speakers

Cons

• A bit heavy by mini standards
• Expensive

The EpiqVision Mini EF12 is more expensive than most other mini projectors, but that’s the trade-off for a positively cinematic movie-watching experience. With a native Full HD 1080p resolution and 1,000-ANSI lumen MicroLaser light source, the unit projects a sharp 140-inch picture. Three-chip LCD technology displays 100 percent of the RGB color range, while high contrast and adaptive color correction deliver shadows full of detail and saturated colors that positively pop. 

Built-in Android TV provides access to a full suite of streaming apps, and the EpiqVision Mini has two HDMI inputs for external players. A 5-watt Yamaha speaker delivers robust and clear audio. 

Unfortunately, this Android projector doesn’t have an internal battery, so don’t expect to use it without having access to AC power. It’s also a chunkier piece of gear than many mini projectors on this list—this isn’t dropping into anyone’s pocket. And, again, the price—close to $1,000, compared to all our other sub-$500 choices—might make it a tough buy for anyone watching their budget. But if you prioritize your movies above all else, there’s a reason this is one of our favorite home theater projectors.

Best for gaming: XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector

XGIMI

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The XGIMI Elfin mini projector enhances gaming by providing a crisp picture, a 3D mode, superior audio quality, and low latency.

Specs

• Brightness: 800 ANSI lumens
• Size: 7.56” x 7.63” x 1.89”
• Weight: 4.41 lbs.

Pros

• 1920 x 1080 resolution
• Features a 3D mode
• Built-in Android TV
• Comes with two Harman Kardon speakers with DTS and Dolby Atmos sound

Cons

• Doesn’t work with iOS
• Some users experienced difficulties with WiFi connection

The XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector is designed for both cinephiles and gamers. Its native Full HD 1080p resolution and 800-ANSI lumen light combine for a crisp 150-inch picture. This pick also comes with built-in Android TV, giving users access to over 5,000 apps, including Google Play, Prime Video, and Disney+.

What sets the Elfin apart is that it comes with a 3D mode that can enhance the gaming experience. This mini projector also features two 3-watt Harman Kardon speakers that work with DTS and Dolby to provide atmospheric sound. The Elfin is also equipped with an autofocus mode, and the low latency of 26.5 milliseconds is another selling point for gamers.

For those looking for a projector with wireless audio, the Elfin connects via Bluetooth 5.0, as well as WiFi, USB, HDMI, and headphones. With its slim profile and at just 4.5 pounds, it’s also easy to tuck this projector into a backpack for travel. And it’s priced lower than some other options. If you’re looking for a larger model, check out our guide to the best projectors for gaming.

Best pocket-sized: Kodak Luma 450

KODAK

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Why it made the cut: With native 1080p resolution, this pint-size player delivers a much better picture than you usually get from such small projectors. 

Specs

• Lumens: 200 ANSI lumens
• Size: 4.9” x 4.9” 1.26”
• Weight: 9 ounces

Pros

• 1920 x 1080 resolution
• 4K compatible (down-converted)
• Keystoning 
• 3-hour battery life

Cons

• Not very bright
• Tinny audio

Kodak’s tiny Luma 450 delivers full 1080p resolution with the ability to accept 4K signals (down-converted to HD). The DLP projector’s 200 lumens aren’t high-performance, but good color management and a 3,500:1 contrast ratio help to achieve a decent picture up to about 100 inches. It’s important, however, to make sure the room is nice and dark, as too much ambient light leads to washed-out colors and a loss of details in the shadows.

The Android Smart OS is included, and streaming apps can be downloaded directly to the projector. You can also cast from this wireless projector directly from your smart device or computer, or plug a media player into the projector via HDMI. It also accepts USB streaming sticks and is a great mini projector for iPhone.

The Luma 450’s battery is reported to last three hours and most users seem to get about 2 1/2 hours of life before plugging in—impressive! Less impressive is the small 1-watt speaker system; the audio lacks any sort of body and clarity sometimes suffers during chaotic scenes (luckily, there’s a 3.5mm jack so you can connect to a beefier sound system). 

Best for travel: Anker Nebula Solar

NEBULA

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Lightweight and featuring built-in Android TV, this battery-powered projector travels easily. 

Specs

• Brightness: 400 ANSI Lumens
• Size: 7.56” x 7.57” x 2.15”
• Weight: 2.8 pounds

Pros

• Up to three hours of battery life
• Built-in Android TV
• Native HD resolution but can accept 4K inputs

Cons

• Picture suffers in ambient light
• Color accuracy could be better

This 3.1-pound, rechargeable, battery-powered DLP projector loves life on the road. You’ll get 1 1/2 hours in Standard mode and an excellent 3 hours in Battery mode—albeit with a dip in brightness. The built-in Android TV includes apps to connect to all the major streaming services, so no external media is necessary (you will, however, need access to a Wi-Fi network and a Google account). Built-in dual 3-watt speakers can handle Dolby Digital Plus encoded audio, though the sound quality could be better. 

The Solar Portable accepts 4K signals and down-converts them to the projector’s native 1080p resolution. In HD mode, colors exhibited a subtle nuance—though they were sometimes a bit off—and shadows maintained their detail even in darker scenes. While this 4K mini projector is bright enough to deliver a nice 180-inch image, don’t expect to go much larger without the picture softening. 

Again, it’s about striking a balance. Other projectors deliver a nicer picture but don’t have as much functionality when traveling. For more options, explore our guide to the best outdoor projectors.

Best budget: Kodak Luma 150

KODAK

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This inexpensive and ultra-small projector is a great way to share presentations, photos, or videos. 

Specs

• Brightness: 60 ANSI lumens
• Size: 3.1” x 3.1” x 0.87”
• Weight: 7.8 ounces 

Pros

• Small and light
• Full-size HDMI input
• microSD card slot

Cons

• Not very bright
• Not full HD

Kodak’s Luma 150 is a fun, budget-friendly way to share content from your smartphone. Send video over a full-size HDMI cable, or cast your content from connected devices. The projector also accepts microSD cards. 

At first blush, the 60-lumen DLP projector doesn’t seem very bright. And its 854 x 480 resolution isn’t the stuff of blockbusters. But this mini movie projector isn’t meant to be your primary choice. The Luma 150 instead makes a convenient, very inexpensive tool for sharing photos at get-togethers, watching movies in the backseat of the car, or delivering presentations at a conference on a screen that’s significantly bigger than the one on your phone, tablet, or laptop.

The battery lasts about two hours and the unit can also be plugged in, making it a good option for a bedroom projector. This cheap projector has a speaker, but you’re better off using headphones or a small, portable speaker if watching videos with other people. 

Things to consider before buying a mini projector

It’s not easy for something that potentially fits in your palm (or at least can be easily carried with one hand) to throw a picture that’s around 100-200 inches from corner to corner, in 720p or 1080p, with accurate colors and decent shadow detail. Here are the specs to watch for as you shop:

Brightness

ANSI lumens describe how much light a projector creates, which determines how bright and large your picture will be—especially in less-than-ideal situations where you can’t achieve a completely dark room. Brightness levels of around 200 to 500 ANSI lumens are common, with picture sizes of around 80-120 inches. That said, there are some mini projectors that can achieve much brighter pictures than that. 

Chip

Projectors use imaging chips to create a picture, and there are three types of them: DLP, LCD, and LCoS. DLP chips find a home in units at all different price points and deliver average contrast and nice color. LCD chips can be found on budget to mid-range projectors and often have better color than DLP projectors, but contrast ratios sometimes suffer. Lastly, LCoS chips are used in mid-range to high-end projectors; they tend to deliver the best picture quality overall but, not surprisingly, cost more and don’t show up in budget units. 

One last thing to know about chips: Single-DLP projectors, which comprise most budget-priced units, sometimes suffer from “the rainbow effect.” This is when bright objects on the screen leave very quick, multicolored pixel trails behind them. With thousands upon thousands of single-DLP projectors sold, it’s obvious that most people don’t even notice them—or aren’t bothered. But if you have an opportunity to test out a single-DLP projector at a store, consider doing so in order to gauge how you feel about the rainbow effect.

Pico and palmtops

There’s mini, and there’s mini. Pico projectors, also sometimes called pocket projectors, are about the size of a smartphone. They’re extremely portable, of course, but their pictures rarely match the brightness or quality found on bigger machines. Palmtop projectors are larger and brighter than pico projectors, with more connections, but still light enough to drop into a bag for travel or presentations. Many models also connect with smartphones, making them ideal cell phone projectors.

Power

Many mini projectors run on internal batteries for at least a couple of hours, making them even more portable. That said, it’s not enough juice to binge an entire series or watch some of the longer Marvel movies. Luckily, mini projectors also come with AC cords so when you’re at home, in an office, or at a friend’s place, you can just plug them in.

Screens

Projectors shine light on a surface that reflects the light back to our eyes. That means using a projector with a plain, white wall isn’t going to deliver the best picture because too much light gets absorbed by the paint. For the optimal viewing experience, you need to buy a screen—which can run from around $25 to a little over $100, depending on sizes, stands, and accessories. These have reflective surfaces that increase perceived brightness, contrast, and color saturation—all of which are especially important when using a mini projector, which is likely already hobbled by a dimmer light source.

Audio

Because they’re built for portability, mini projectors often include speakers. Three or more watts can generally fill a small space, but volume isn’t everything. Ensure the speakers produce clear audio to separate voices from background noise or music in busy scenes. Decent bass response will contribute to the sound’s fullness, too. Many mini projectors also include an audio-out jack for using external speakers. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best mini projectors

• Best overall: AAXA P7 Mini Projector
• Best for movies: Epson EpiqVision Mini EF12
• Best for gaming: XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector
• Best pocket-sized: Kodak Luma 450
• Best for travel: Anker Nebula Solar
• Best budget: Kodak Luma 150

Mini projectors almost never live up to the specs of larger, more permanent units—but they cost less and travel easily. Anyone looking to purchase a mini projector needs to first accept that reality before deciding which unit suits them best. After that, it comes down to priorities. If you want a great picture and don’t care about much else, Epson’s EpiqVision Mini EF12 delivers a cinema-like picture. On the other hand, the AAXA P7 Mini Projector trades off some brightness, and a bit of image quality, for portability. It features a battery and costs much less. In striking that balance, in embracing what’s great about mini projectors, the AAXA P7 edged out the Epson for our top pick.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best mini projectors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

best overall		DBPOWER WiFi Bluetooth Projector		SEE IT	Excellent all-around performance with HD video and a good warranty.
Best bright image		GooDee 2023 Projector		SEE IT	With an extra bright image, this is a solid outdoor movie night option.
Best portable		Kodak Ultra Mini Portable Projector		SEE IT	Palm-sized but still potent, this tiny pocket projector offers big entertainment.

Projectors do wonders at making any room—even minuscule city apartments—feel like a home theater. And not all projectors require a big investment to open up a huge new window of immersive entertainment. If you’re ready to expand your laptop binges and smartphone scrolling to the size of your wall, you can explore the world of streaming content at a surprisingly affordable price. You shouldn’t expect top-tier performance at this price point, but the best projectors under $200 can still provide a satisfying experience if you choose the right model and do a little prep work. 

• Best overall: DBPOWER WiFi Bluetooth Projector
• Best bright image: Projector, GooDee 2023
• Best portable: Kodak Ultra Mini Portable Projector
• Best for home theater: Wsky HD Projector (Refurbished)
• Best with DVD player: BIGASUO Upgrade HD Bluetooth Projector
• Best with screen: YABER WiFi 9000L
• Best for gaming: 4K Projector, WiMiUS P28
• Best budget: Vamvo Mini Movie Projector

How we chose the best projectors under $200

Having spent countless nights watching YouTube with my girlfriend’s cat at the foot of the bed purring and curled up around the projector’s exhaust fan, I know the joys of a simple-to-use home projector. For this best-of list, I evaluated leading projectors from numerous manufacturers, looking for the magic combination of a few factors that add up to make some truly great picks. We narrowed down this list from dozens based on intensive research, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons. 

The best projectors under $200: Reviews & Recommendations

These projectors offer surprisingly capable combinations of tech features that capitalize on crisp definition, Apollonian illumination, dynamic sound, and the connectivity you need for nightly use. Most hook into your laptop using an HDMI cable, while some pair wirelessly through a WiFi network. For audio, many pair with powered speakers (or an AV receiver) via aux connections and sometimes support Bluetooth. At the $200 price point, few projectors may be completely cord-free or the perfect pairing for your premium sound systems, but they could be a great partner to that new portable party speaker. Still, today’s budget projectors offer versatility and delivery that would have been unthinkable at this price a decade ago.

Best overall: DBPOWER WiFi Bluetooth Projector

DBPOWER

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Why it made the cut: With native HD, 9,000 lumens, and WiFi connectivity, this is a versatile and powerful projector, but it’s the customer support that makes it the best overall.

Specs

• Luminance: 9,000 lumens
• Definition: 1080p
• Connections: HDMI, WiFi, Bluetooth (sound), TV stick, USB, AV port, 3.5mm audio

Pros

• Really nice picture with good definition and bright luminance
• Solid connectivity options
• Allows viewers to screen cast from their phones

Cons

• Bluetooth connection is only sound, advertising is misleading
• Some high-end sound systems won’t connect

This projector hits all the basics with aplomb: It offers 1080p definition without much warping along the edges, delivers 9,000 lumens to be visible in half-light conditions, and features impressive connectivity options. That connectivity lets you pair your devices to the projector via WiFi to screencast from a phone, or connect a sound system via Bluetooth. However, it will not deliver video via Bluetooth. That’s typical, but the product listings make it slightly confusing. 

The projector also delivers a few special features, such as a zoom function that allows you to shrink the image to 75% via the remote. Built-in speakers create a modicum of surround sound illusion. However, we think you’ll be best served by connecting to a separate Bluetooth speaker device.  

Best bright image: GooDee 2022 Projector

GooDee

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Why it made the cut: With 1080p native resolution, 9,500 lumens, and two speakers to create a modicum of surround sound, this projector is more than capable of achieving most of what most users want.

Specs

• Luminance: 9,500 lumens
• Definition: 1080p
• Connections: 2 HDMI, VGA, 2 USB, AV, TF card

Pros

• Two speakers for true stereo sound
• Extra bright LED luminance
• Decent connections

Cons

• Build quality is a bit cheap
• Edges get somewhat fuzzy

At the sub-$200 price point, it can be hard to find a projector with really excellent brightness. The GooDee 2022 distinguishes itself here. Offering 9,500 lumens with a 3,000:1 contrast ratio and a max screen size of 230 inches, this budget projector emphasizes going big. A pretty perfect option for backyard movie nights, this might be the best outdoor projector under $200, hitting a nice sweet spot of big image and lightweight build. 

The GooDee does have a little trouble with warping and fuzziness around the image corners. However, that’s nothing rare at this price point. The device also suffers from a somewhat cheap-feeling build. It doesn’t feel super solid and primed for longevity. Still, the brightness and resolution may compensate for this for most users.

All in all, GooDee delivers a projector that yields a pretty bright, crisp image, with good contrast and resolution. It’s especially suited for backyard movie parties.

Best portable: Kodak Ultra Mini Portable Projector

KODAK

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Why it made the cut: With support for 1080p signal and a two-hour battery charge, this super-petite projector fits in a pocket and makes for a perfect companion for campers with kids or travel.

Specs

• Luminance: 25 ANSI lumen
• Definition: 640 x 320 (capable of displaying images meant for 1080p)
• Connections: HDMI, USB, MicroSD

Pros

• Ultra-portable
• Makes a great camping projector

Cons

• Battery often dies in under two hours

Ready to bring your projector camping? The Kodak Ultra Mini projector does some amazing things considering its size. At about 3 inches square and only 150 grams, the Kodak lives up to its title as a true “ultra-mini” projector housed in that tiny body is a decent projector that hooks up to most smartphones and portable devices.

With such a tiny size and low price, the Ultra-Mini will require you to make some sacrifices. While it can receive a 1080p signal, it only outputs at 640 x 320, meaning the 1080p video entering the projector will be downscaled to a much lower native resolution. It’s quite a drop from HD, so don’t expect crisp, beautiful video that perfectly represents contemporary cinema. Additionally, the brightness isn’t anything to write home about. Still, it’s nothing to sneer at on a dark tent wall. One other issue with the device is its short battery life. It generally won’t make it past two hours, so don’t expect any Lord Of The Rings marathon binges here.

If a miniature portable projector is something you’re after and you decide you can afford the bells and whistles, Kodak’s more expensive Luma 350 could be worth exploring. For its small price and equally tiny size, however, the Kodak Ultra Mini is the best mini projector under $200. It’s worth a look, even if it could be a good idea to get your expectations in order before you spring for it.

Best for home theater: Wsky HD Projector (Refurbished)

Wsky

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Why it made the cut: With a native 1080p HD resolution and a significantly higher-than-average 5,000:1 contrast, this projector puts its double-dense LED tech to work.

Specs

• Luminance: 7,500 lumens
• Definition: 1080p
• Connections: HDMI, VGA, audio port, USB, MHL

Pros

• 84 LEDs double the standard LED count in a projector and achieve greater detail, contrast, and less fuzziness on the exterior of the image
• Value priced

Cons

• Sound quality isn’t great

For a sub-$200 cinephiles projector, look no further than the Wsky HD Projector. This projector puts the work in on image quality using a higher-than-average LED count. The 5,000:1 contrast is noticeably better than much of the competition, and the 1080p HD coverage looks great, even with new movies. With better-than-average corner coverage achieved via the keystone wheel, Wsky also doesn’t suffer from as much of the edge blurriness that might make subtitles illegible on some projectors.

The Wsky’s sound won’t rack up any bonus points, however. While it advertises Dolby sound, the two speakers aren’t powerful enough. However, plugging speakers into the audio jack can mitigate this sound deficiency. Sadly, no Bluetooth audio connection is available. However, those who stump for Bluetooth speakers may be able to pair them to a device that’s sourcing video (such as your laptop, though there might be sync issues). 

With its impressive video capabilities, the Wsky HD Projector is worth consideration for anyone who wants a projector that yields a great picture.

Best with DVD player: BIGASUO Upgrade HD Bluetooth Projector

BIGASUO

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Why it made the cut: For folks with a legacy DVD collection who might want to skip all the wires, this projector has a built-in DVD player and does a decent job at all the rest.

Specs

• Luminance: 5,500 lumens
• Definition: 720p
• Connections: HDMI, VGA, AV, USB, Bluetooth (sound), TF SD card

Pros

• DVD player built in
• Decent connectivity, including Bluetooth for sound

Cons

• Resolution and brightness are both somewhat low
• Sound is nothing to write home about

Are you itching to tuck into the entire Lassie television series on DVD box set? The BIGASUO Upgrade HD projector with a built-in DVD player might be your best bet. The BIGASUO projector is remarkable for its connections and legacy media opportunities. 

The Bluetooth connection for sound is particularly useful in concert with the built-in DVD player. Often with contemporary laptops, Bluetooth sound on a projector is redundant since most laptops can pair to a Bluetooth speaker while casting video through HDMI. However, since this device acts as its own DVD player, the Bluetooth connection can be important for those skipping the laptop entirely. This means you can natively watch DVDs from the device while simultaneously paired with a Bluetooth speaker for sound.

Outside of its DVD player, this is an unremarkable projector. It downscales HD video to its native 720p definition, which falls short of similarly priced native HD projectors. Its brightness similarly lags the competition somewhat.

If you’re looking for a capable all-in-one DVD player/projector hybrid, the BIGASUO Upgrade HD is a good pick. Otherwise, you may want to move on.

Best with screen: YABER WiFi 9000L

Yaber

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Why it made the cut: The Yaber boasts an impressive 10,000:1 contrast, supplemented by an included SCT screen that improves the image.

Specs

• Luminance: 9,500 lumens
• Definition: 1080p
• Connections: HDMI, USB, VGA, AV, audio, TF card

Pros

• Includes projection screen, which is primed for contrast
• Decently bright
• Lightweight and portable at just over two pounds

Cons

• Resolution could be better

Pay for a projector, get the whole shebang? You’ll get just that with the YABER WiFi 9000L, which features a projection screen included in the box. While lots of folks use their projectors on a blank wall, you can demonstrably get a better image with a specially designed projection screen.

The rest of the YABER’s specs are average. It features a 1080p native resolution, and its brightness is better than average but not outstanding. It uses two speakers for decent sound. The WiFi connectivity is a nice touch that may sway some buyers. That, coupled with the 10,000:1 high definition, makes for a good all-around projector that’s a perfect addition to some households.

Best for gaming: WiMiUS P28 4K Projector

Wimius

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Why it made the cut: This HD projector isn’t actually true 4K, but it does deliver 1080p video at gaming speeds, extra bright 400 ANSI lumens (about 9500 lumens), 10,000:1 contrast ratio, and extra nice keystone correction. 

Specs

• Luminance: 400 ANSI lumens
• Definition: 1080p
• Connections: 2 HDMI, 2 USB, 1 VGA, 1 AV, 1 audio output

Pros

• Great video quality with very bright and detailed image
• Relatively low lag makes it worthy of games
• With a wider-than-average keystone correction capability, you’ll get a more balanced picture

Cons

• “4K” claim refers to 4K video input which is standard and downgraded to HD
• Edges of the picture remain fuzzy

Available for a solid sale price more often than not, the WiMiUS P28 fits within the $200 mark for our purposes. While the false 4K advertising is certainly a turn-off, the projector is still a good enough deal to highlight on this list. 

This projector has a classic HD 1920×1080 resolution, make no mistake. The 4K claim simply refers to the projector’s ability to accept 4K video and downscale it to HD, which is common. Still, this projector throws a nice-looking image: It has the highest contrast ratio of any projector on this list, with about 9,500 lumens (rated at 400 ANSI lumens) and claims of a 60Hz refresh rate that should appeal to gamers. That said, the image has some issues; its edges tend to blur, with the middle properly focusing and the corners getting fuzzy.

In the end, this is a pretty capable extra bright projector. But don’t be fooled by the advertising … this isn’t a magical unicorn 4K projector for under $200.

Best budget: Vamvo Mini Movie Projector

Vavmo

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Why it made the cut: With its two built-in speakers, 720p resolution, and under 1-pound weight, Vamvo dishes up a budget projector that does a really decent job. 

Specs

• Luminance: 3,500 lumens
• Definition: 720p
• Connections: HDMI, VGA, SD/TF, AV, USB and RC

Pros

• Better sound delivery than most at this price
• Lightweight build makes it a great choice for a portable option
• Decently bright

Cons

• Non-HD picture is a bit blurry

For a truly low price for its capabilities, the Vamvo Mini Movie Projector is the value pick for budget projectors. This 720p projector still delivers a decent enough high-contrast picture that’s adequately bright in dark rooms at 3,500 lumens, so that it’s effective in moderately dark to very dark spaces. While it advertises its support for 1080p HD, the 720p resolution will mean that high-end pictures do downgrade and lose detail. If you’re just watching the occasional movie in a dark backyard on a DIY screen or sheet, that may not matter very much.

The projector’s speakers certainly fall short of outstanding. Still, you can’t knock the performance here for the price point. It does a better job than most at this level. Overall, Vamvo is a true budget projector. While none of its components outpace the best equipped of the competition, if a low price is your most important metric, then it’s worth real consideration for its decent treatment of all the basics. At about just under a pound, this Vamvo is portable, reliable, and very cheap.

Things to consider when shopping for the best projectors under $200

You won’t get a chance to try out these projectors before you take the leap and buy one, but you can get a good idea of what you’re getting by comparing the specs. Here are some essential features to look for when trying to pick the best model for you. 

Do you need 4K?

4K is all the rage (until 8K finally established itself), and while I type this article on a laptop with a 4K screen, the resolution difference between 1080p and 4K at that scale is subtle. However, a projector is arguably one of the best applications of 4K resolution. Since projectors often cast their image onto large surfaces, the more pixels the projector displays, the better it looks at visual detail. That said, true 4K resolution is currently prohibitively expensive for an “under $200” list.

The difference between 1080p and a resolution like 720p is quite drastic. With a difference of 1080 lines of pixel dots versus 720 lines of pixel dots, you will notice the difference, especially if you’re projecting large. Generally, a substantive price difference separates the standard resolution brackets. So unless you are dedicated to getting the most portable projector out there, the choice should generally come down to budget vs. resolution. Go for the 1080p model unless image quality really isn’t important to you.

Read the fine print

Yeah, you want to believe that companies are being transparent about their products, but there’s a lot of bluster in the budget projector market. Often companies will claim their product supports HD in a header, then reveal that it has a native resolution of 720p, accepting HD video and downscaling it. It’s important to fully examine the specs of the projector you’re considering purchasing to ensure that it’s really the right one for you.

Keystone effect

Keystone correction refers to the illusion that’s created when your projector casts a square image onto a wall at an angle, creating a trapezoid. The shape created looks like the crowning keystone a mason would use to construct an arch. 

Today’s projectors compensate for the keystone effect by including a control that skews the image. This control usually takes the shape of a ring or nob by the focus control. Keystone correction can also be added digitally. 

Some projectors are better at keystone correction than others. But all projectors can benefit from supplementing keystone compensation with proper alignment of the projector against the wall. For permanent installation, getting the projector alignment right the first time is usually a good idea. Whether your projector will be installed permanently, or be moved around the house (or beyond), it’s worth understanding Keystone controls before you make a final decision.

Screen or wall?

Screens can make a huge difference in the image quality you get from your projector. Painted walls often contain more bumps and crevasses than you would expect. Not only do projector screens deliver a flat uniform surface, but they also often come primed with materials that help your projector do its work. Some projectors ship with a screen in the package. Many others would benefit from one. It’s worth considering whether you want to invest in a projector screen.

Luminance

Most of the time, projectors with the highest luminance are better than others for most users. Since projectors work by casting light onto a wall, higher luminance equals a brighter, more visible image, that will show up in half-light settings and on surfaces that aren’t primed for contrast. Usually, companies describe luminance in terms of lumens, which is the International System of Units standard for measuring total light emission over a unit of time. Sometimes, projectors advertise their brightness using the term “ANSI lumens,” a (generally) more accurate metric created by the American National Standards Institute for measuring total light emitted from a projector. While ANSI lumens aren’t directly convertible to lumens without accounting for a few additional factors (such as room temperature and surface color), 400 ANSI lumens roughly translates to a little under 1000 lumens. For this article, we prioritized higher luminance in most cases.

Picture quality and definition 

We’re in the era of 4K, and while a 4K resolution projector is rarely achievable for less than $200 (though we’ve got some great choices starting at $500), HD has become the bottom line in most cases. Many projectors still offer less than 1080p resolutions, and some are still worth considering, especially if you’re stumping for ultra-portability (or ultra-cheap prices). Still, most of the time, 1080p HD is the baseline we look for in a model designed for watching content. It creates a detailed image that does justice to your Criterion Collection binges. Definition isn’t the whole story, though: some projectors warp or blur image edges, skewing the picture. Other factors like contrast and color reproduction can also affect quality. This list prioritizes projectors that achieve image quality that displays the worlds you escape in how the director (or game designer) envisioned them.

Connectivity

At the sub-$200 price point, most projectors use HDMI cables for video connection. A few offer WiFi connections to supplement this. A few even offer Bluetooth connectivity. I factored in a projector’s connection offerings when I evaluated it and highlighted any that stand out from the crowd.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best projectors under $200

• Best overall: DBPOWER WiFi Bluetooth Projector
• Best bright image: Projector, GooDee 2022
• Best portable: Kodak Ultra Mini Portable Projector
• Best for home theater: Wsky HD Projector (Refurbished)
• Best with DVD player: BIGASUO Upgrade HD Bluetooth Projector
• Best with screen: YABER WiFi 9000L
• Best for gaming: 4K Projector, WiMiUS P28
• Best budget: Vamvo Mini Movie Projector

The best projectors under $200 offer tuned combinations of value and performance. You’ll find HD video, bright high-lumen LEDs, and solid connectivity at the price point. You can also find ultra-mini projectors capable of projecting from a phone or tablet and easily fit into a shirt pocket. For one of the best value projectors around, the Vamvo Mini Movie Projector delivers good video and brightness at a super-budget price. The Wsky HD Projector, with its impressive LED tech, is our favorite for home theater, though you might want to pair it with external speakers. DBPOWER, on the other hand, was the clear choice for the overall best projector under 200 for its HD video, good brightness, connectivity, and a customer service plan and warranty that goes far beyond most on this list. Whatever you pick, enjoy the new dimensions of video and picture quality that your projector will bring to your home media. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best projectors under $200 for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Samsung 55-inch Class QLED The Terrace Outdoor TV		SEE IT	This television is IP55 rated and features 4K QLED for excellent picture quality.
Best budget		SunBriteTV 43-inch Outdoor Television for Shade		SEE IT	Its picture quality is high despite its low price.
Best for partial sun		Furrion Aurora Partial Sun Series Outdoor TV		SEE IT	A self-adjusting screen means more time watching TV and less time fiddling with settings.

Whether you’re looking to throw a socially distanced outdoor Grammys watch party, or you just want to watch the latest episode of The Bachelor or RHOBH with a breeze on your face, a TV on the patio is a great way to entertain and get some fresh air at the same time. Most standard TVs can’t withstand the elements, and not all outdoor TVs offer the same level of protection and versatility. Some work on covered patios and decks, while others can handle full exposure to rain and snow. Sunlight makes a difference, and most TVs will fall under one of three categories: shade, partial sun, and those that will offer great picture quality no matter what the conditions are. Other factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor TV are size, sound quality, and price. With so many options out there, choosing the right one can be a little confusing, but we’re here to help you find the best outdoor TV for all your viewing needs.

• Best overall: Samsung 55-inch Class QLED The Terrace Outdoor TV
• Best with a soundbar: Furrion FDUP55CSA 55″ Aurora Partial Sun Outdoor TV Bundle with 2.1-Channel Soundbar
• Best for shaded areas: SunBriteTV Weatherproof Outdoor 55-inch Veranda
• Best for partial sun: Furrion Aurora Partial Sun Series UHD LED Outdoor TV
• Best budget: SunBriteTV 43-inch Outdoor Television for Shade

How we chose the best outdoor TVs

As pool lovers, grill geeks, and float fanatics, we’re excited about everything outdoorsy. We looked at critical reviews and consumer impressions, along with important features like weatherproofing and anti-glare technology, to narrow down the best outdoor TVs. We then took that list, culled through pages of specs and opinions from the most trusted sources, and selected the top six options we’re presenting to you.

The best outdoor TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

From enjoying America’s pastime in prime time to movie nights under the stars, the best outdoor TVs can handle it all. After plenty of research, here are our outdoor television picks. All you’ll need is some popcorn and a cooler full of drinks and you’ll be entertaining in no time.

Best overall: Samsung 55-inch Class QLED The Terrace Outdoor TV

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: An IP55 rating and 4K QLED ensure durability and excellent screen quality.

Specs

• Sizes: 55″, 65″ 75″
• Resolution: 4K, 8K
• Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

• Excellent screen quality
• Intuitive

Cons

• Decrease in quality at outer angles

With a 55-inch screen utilizing QLED technology, this Samsung TV is our pick for best outdoor TV overall. Equipped with smart TV technology, this TV lets you easily stream your favorite sports and movies without having to buy a separate device. Although its anti-glare technology and exceptional brightness levels mean that it works well on sunny days, you may notice a decrease in quality at the outer angles if you have very wide seating. Overall though, it’s no surprise that Oprah named The Terrace one of her favorite things in 2020.

Best with soundbar: Furrion FDUP55CSA 55″ Aurora Partial Sun Outdoor TV Bundle with 2.1-Channel Soundbar

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: This outdoor television combines excellent sound quality with clear audio.

Specs

• Sizes: 55″
• Resolution: 4K
• Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

• Included soundbar
• Works in a wide temperature range
• Daytime and nighttime viewing settings

Cons

• Pricey

While picture is important for consuming quality content, audio also plays a similarly huge role. This 55-inch outdoor TV offers all the features you’d expect out of a high-end model, including 4K, HDR, and a display that’s rated against weather, temperatures, and even impacts. It also, however, comes with a relatively powerful 75W Bluetooth soundbar that mounts directly with the TV itself. It’s easy to connect and adds serious audio oomph that will really make a difference when you’re trying to watch the latest James Bond movie and birds won’t stop screaming in your yard. Even if you’re not going to use the TV, you can hook up your phone to the soundbar and use it as an outdoor speaker for playing music.

Best for shaded areas: SunBriteTV Weatherproof Outdoor 55-inch Veranda

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: A backlit 4K HDR screen and an aluminum case make it a welcome addition to your covered patio.

Specs

• Sizes: 43″, 55″, 65″, 75″
• Resolution: 4K
• Anti-glare: No

Pros

• Durable
• Multiple sizes
• Built-in speakers

Cons

• Is not a smart TV

This model from SunBriteTV is durable enough to live in a shaded area like a covered porch but won’t get damaged by wind, rain, dust, and stray insects. The 55-inch screen is up to 50-percent brighter than your typical indoor TV and comes with excellent built-in speakers. Unlike some of its more expensive rivals, this outdoor screen isn’t a smart TV, but it’s easy to connect multiple media sources to it through its three HDMI ports and single USB port.

Best for partial sun: Furrion Aurora Partial Sun Series 43-inch 4K UHD LED Outdoor TV

Furrion

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Why it made the cut: A self-adjusting screen means less time fiddling with settings and more time enjoying the sun.

Specs

• Sizes: 43″, 50″, 55″, 65″
• Resolution: 4K
• Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

• Built-in fans
• Self-adjusting screen
• Waterproof remote
• Streaming ready

Cons

• Not the loudest speakers

This Furrion HDR10 LED outdoor TV is a terrific choice if you’re watching in an area that gets partial sun. In fact, the 400 nits screen will even adjust itself according to how much light it’s getting, so there’s no need to constantly fiddle with the brightness settings. It’s IP54 rated for when it does rain and has built-in cooling fans for when it’s hot. And if your weather gets a bit intense, you’ll be happy to know the screen comes equipped with enhanced protection against scratches and impacts thanks to XtremeShield IK08-rated tempered glass.

Best budget: SunBriteTV 43-inch Outdoor Television for Shade

Amazon

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This television is hard on the elements but easy on your wallet.

Specs

• Sizes: 43″, 55″, 65″, 75″
• Resolution: 4K
• Anti-glare: Yes

Pros

• Weatherproof media bay included
• Powder-coated rust-proof aluminum exterior
• Easy cable hookups

Cons

• Sound doesn’t travel as far compared to others

The smallest and least expensive option in the SunBriteTV Veranda line, this unit is designed to be enjoyed in the shade but can withstand rain, snow, dust, insects, and whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw at it. The Ultra 4K HDR LED screen delivers a crisp picture that’s 50-percent brighter than a standard TV and is perfect for patios, screened-in porches, and covered decks. This SunBrite TV comes with a large weatherproof media bay so whatever you plug into it will be protected as well.

What to consider when buying the best outdoor TVs

Before you bust out the snacks at your next shindig, there are a couple of things you’ll need to think about when choosing the best outdoor TV for your space. For example, if you plan on watching your new set under your porch, you probably won’t need a model that offers the same level of waterproofing and anti-glare technology as a full sun option.

Placement

Sun exposure is a major consideration when choosing an outdoor TV. Partial sun models might have some glare, and some will only deliver a great picture if they’re in the shade.

However, the picture might not be the only thing that suffers if you aren’t choosy about your new TV. Models designed to be enjoyed under a covered porch may not be as resilient to extreme weather conditions as ones that are meant to live in a backyard. In some cases, it may be wise to invest in a cover, just as you would for your grill or ping pong table.

TV size

If you want to keep everyone from invading each other’s personal bubble, but don’t want your guests squinting to see the game, a huge outdoor TV will keep everyone entertained and safe at the same time. Plus, if you’re a movie buff, a large TV is terrific for simulating the fun of a drive-in without leaving your home. Just remember, the bigger the TV, the bigger the price tag.

Audio quality

When you’re shopping, make sure you pay attention to audio quality. Some models don’t come with built-in speakers, meaning you’ll have to connect them to something else unless you just plan on watching old, silent movies. Other models come with speakers but deliver less quality.

One way to make sure that you don’t end up straining your ears is to find an outdoor TV that comes equipped with a soundbar. A soundbar (also known as a media bar), is a speaker that is wider than it is tall and delivers superior audio quality when mounted above or below the TV. In a pinch, you could also pair waterproof Bluetooth party speakers with your TV, and then be ready when the party migrates to the pool.

Amount of shade and sun

If you plan on enjoying your TV on a screened-in porch or in a covered gazebo, there may not be a reason to shell out extra money on the latest anti-glare technology. The best outdoor TV is suited for where you’re watching it—there are great options that work in the shade while still offering protection from temperature shifts, rain, insects, and dust.

If you have a covered porch that receives some amount of light but isn’t directly exposed to the sun, consider a partial shade TV. These models will have brighter screens compared to shade-friendly TVs and will offer more protection against glare.

Price

Although outdoor TVs have come down in price considerably over the past couple of years, they’re still relatively expensive compared to standard models. The cheapest outdoor designs are not designed to truly live outside. In fact, some won’t work at all if they aren’t in the shade because the glare from the sun will make it impossible to see what’s on the screen.

If you’re just looking for a TV to watch on your covered deck or screened-in porch, look for options that are durable enough to be (partially) exposed to the elements. And expect to pay between $1,500 and $5,500, depending on brand, size, and features.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best outdoor TVs

Enjoying your television in the great outdoors can be a wonderful change of pace, especially after a year of being cooped up inside. The most important thing to consider when shopping for the best outdoor TV is where you’re going to watch it because different models can handle different conditions. A TV built for shade is not recommended for sun exposure. Likewise, one that is meant to be watched in the sun will probably be wasted sitting under a covered porch.

More TV roundups to help you find the perfect set

• Best 8K TVs
• Best TVs for gaming
• Best TVs for PS5
• Best OLED TVs
• Best QLED TVs
• Best Roku TVs
• Best TVs under $300
• Best TVs under $1,000
• Best 40-inch TVs
• Best 55-inch TVs
• Best 65-inch TVs
• Best 70-inch TVs
• Best 75-inch TVs

The post The best outdoor TVs of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Logitech Harmony Elite		SEE IT	The Logitech Harmony Elite remains the best universal remote even though it isn’t in production.
Best for home theater		SofaBaton U1		SEE IT	The SofaBaton U1 Universal Remote offers great features in an affordable package.
Best simple remote		One for All Smart Control 8 (URC7880)		SEE IT	The One for All URC7880 Smart Control 8 enhances traditional remote design with modern day smarts.

Juggling multiple remotes for TV, cable box, soundbar, game consoles, and all the other devices in your living room can get extremely frustrating. Once upon a time, manufacturers made third-party universal remotes, which connected to many devices so you could navigate them all with one magic wand. Despite the fact that we have more devices than ever, universal remotes are a dying breed. You could argue they’ve been replaced by smartphones but switching between a hundred different clunky apps just isn’t as elegant as the defunct, yet still supported Logitech Harmony remote. Here’s the thing, though. There are still a few companies that make universal remotes. And some of the old devices, including the Harmony remotes, still work well if you’re willing to buy a used one. If your coffee table full of remotes needs taming, the best universal remotes can still swoop in and cut out some remote clutter.

• Best overall: Logitech Harmony Elite
• Best premium: Logitech Harmony Companion
• Best for home theater: SofaBaton U1
• Best simple: One for All Smart Control 8 (URC7880)
• Best for Apple TV: Apple TV Siri Remote
• Best with Alexa: Amazon Fire TV Cube
• Best budget: GE Universal Remote

How we picked the best universal remotes

I have covered the consumer electronics industry for more than 10 years for TechnoBuffalo, Gear Patrol, CNN Underscored, and iMore. The coverage included reviews and reports on TVs and third-party A/V gear, including universal remotes.

To make our selections, I leaned on hands-on testing, as well as extensive research on the current third-party remote market. I checked peer reviews, user impressions, forums, and retailer comment sections to get a sense of what universal remotes are currently popular.

What to consider when choosing the best universal remotes

A good universal remote will consolidate your collection of remotes into a single tech navigation tool. It can dim your smart lights, switch on your TV, and start playing a movie through your streaming devices, with a few quick taps. Or you can program it to do all of those things at once with a single press of a button using a “macro.” 

A good universal remote should also feature broad device compatibility and, like any good gadget, a well-organized layout that’s intuitive for novices and veterans alike. While a display isn’t necessary, it’s a nice perk because it allows users to scroll through their list of customizable activities.

Device compatibility

You want to make sure your universal remote can connect to all of the devices in the space where you plan to use it. You should be able to juggle between 5-10 devices at once (or more), spanning home entertainment, smart home, and other kinds of gear. Broad device compatibility will allow a universal remote to fit seamlessly into your daily routine, and make it easier to get the most out of all your devices.

Battery life

A universal remote can’t do its job with a dead battery. When doing our research and testing, we hunted down options that could last a few months between charges. 

We generally prefer remotes that feature a rechargeable internal battery to minimize the possibility of e-waste. For remotes with rechargeable batteries, we prefer a charging hub over a simple cable, but that is definitely not a dealbreaker. If you’re using a battery that relies on disposable AA or AAA cells, we recommend purchasing rechargeable batteries.

Design

Universal remotes generally share the same design language as the TV and cable remotes you’ve likely used your whole life. In most cases, they have many, many more buttons. Sometimes they also have a small display, which is great because it helps you keep track of what you’re doing. Still, for the most part, the best universal remote shouldn’t be hard to parse.

Beyond our picks’ general shape and size, we looked out for things like a comfortable button layout. Commonly used buttons, including volume, pause, and play, should be easy to find without requiring someone to hunt for them. 

A great third-party remote should also have customizable buttons you can set for specific tasks, like turning on your TV to a particular input. Of course, we also tried our best to find options that look nice and feel good in hand, too.

Price

Strictly speaking, there’s nothing essential about a universal remote. It’s a luxury meant to make your technological life a little more convenient. Given that, every person will have their own thoughts on how much they’re willing to spend for convenience’s sake.

Luckily, there are universal remotes for every budget. The most affordable ones provide limited functionality, akin to a TV remote, but with a wider range of functionality. The prices go up from there as companies add more broad support for many devices, displays for better navigation, charging stations, and more. The very best universal remotes are typically a few hundred dollars.

On top of that, our picks include a couple of remotes that are no longer in production. They are still fairly easy to find, new or used, but they cost a lot more than you’d expect. Do not fret if our top picks aren’t your price range, as there are always more affordable options that can pare down your pile of remotes.

IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi support

All universal remotes use an IR (infrared) transmitter to send a signal to your TV, which interprets that signal to actions like lowering the volume or changing the channel. Lower-priced universal remotes generally come equipped with an IR transmitter. The best of them should also support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing them to communicate with a wider range of modern devices like game consoles and smart home gear.

The best universal remotes: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding the right universal remote will let you consolidate your collection and bring some order to your living room. Though the list of appealing options is dwindling, there are still a few great universal remotes out there.

Best overall: Logitech Harmony Elite

Amazon Renewed

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: With broad device support, a capacitive touchscreen, and support for one-touch actions, the Harmony Elite is tough to beat.

Specs

• Size: 7.56 x 2.13 x 1.14 inches
• Weight: 0.36 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• Battery life: 3-7 days

Pros

• One-touch actions
• Custom activities
• A capacitive touchscreen makes it easy to control your devices

Cons

• Very expensive
• Not in production, so may be difficult to find new

Although it was discontinued in 2021, the Logitech Harmony Elite remains the best universal remote we’ve tried. It includes broad device support for over 270,000 entertainment and smart home devices, as well as customizable one-touch macros. It features a small capacitive touchscreen that makes navigating a potentially dizzying array of devices easy to follow. Though Logitech no longer manufactures Harmony remotes, the company still updates them, so they are still a viable option.

That said, getting a Harmony Elite for a reasonable price isn’t easy. It was expensive from the start, retailing for $349. Now that there’s a limited supply, that price has only gone up. Even used models can cost nearly $400 or more. Still, if you’re searching for the versatile, feature-rich universal remote, nothing touches the Harmony Elite.

Best for home theater: SofaBaton U1

SofaBaton

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The SofaBaton U1 offers a similar experience to the Harmony Elite, including a small OLED display, in a more affordable package.

Specs

• Size: 7.7 x 1.9 x 1.2 inches
• Weight: 0.61 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Battery life: N/A (requires two AA batteries)

Pros

• Small OLED display
• Can control up to 15 devices
• Supports over 350,000 devices

Cons

• Can’t control Wi-Fi-based devices

Though we have a soft spot for the Harmony remote, there are still companies making great universal remotes. Case in point, the SofaBaton U1 can connect to over 350,000 devices from 6,000 brands and features a companion iOS and Android app so you can configure the remote on the fly. It can control up to 15 devices at once using IR blasts and Bluetooth. You can also assign buttons to perform specific actions and even create shortcuts to launch activities. 

The SofaBaton U1 does all this for $69.99, far less than the Harmony remotes cost before scarcity drove up the price. Though it isn’t as easy to program, and can’t control Wi-Fi-based devices like smart light bulbs, it gives the Harmony remotes a run for their money. It’s a convenient, affordable, no-compromise universal remote in a reasonably polished package.

Best simple: One for All Smart Control 8 (URC7880)

One For All(r)

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The One for All URC7880 looks basic at a glance, but features customizable buttons and controls up to eight devices.

Specs

• Size: 9.4 x 4.8 x 1.1 inches
• Weight: 0.46 pounds
• Connectivity: Infrared
• Battery life: N/A (requires two AA batteries)

Pros

• Simple, straightforward design
• Can control up to eight devices
• Customizable shortcut keys
• Remote finder feature

Cons

• Doesn’t work with Bluetooth devices

The One For All Smart Control 8 resembles a stock remote you’d get with a TV but can do a lot more. It can control up to eight devices via infrared and will work with everything from a TV to a set-top box to a Blu-ray player. It also features customizable shortcut keys that you can program via a smartphone app. Our personal favorite feature, though, is the remote finder, which lets you use a companion app on your smartphone to make the remote emit a noise so you can track it down.

The Smart Control 8 only communicates with devices via IR blast, so it’s really just for home entertainment centers, rather than a full suite of smart devices. Still, its comparatively simple construction and narrow focus make a solid, affordable choice looking to combine a few of the remotes around the TV.

Best for Apple TV: Apple TV Siri Remote

Amazon

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished here: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Apple TV Siri Remote features an improved design, precise D-pad, and touch-sensitive jogwheel for easy control.

Specs

• Size: 6.93 x 2.62 x 1.04 inches
• Weight: 0.28 pounds
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• Battery life: Two months

Pros

• Clicky buttons
• There’s a mute button
• Jogwheel controls

Cons

• Kind of expensive if you’re upgrading from an older Apple TV remote

With a lovely aluminum design and precise D-pad, the Apple TV Siri Remote is the best option for the company’s set-top box. The 3rd-generation remote includes a mute button, as well as an intuitive directional pad with a touch-sensitive “jogwheel” similar to the experience of using an old-school iPod. Of course, you can also use the Apple TV Siri Remote for system-level TV functions like power and volume. For people with basic setups, that’s all the “universal control” you really need. Plus, gen 3 charges via USB-C instead of Lightning, which many people will appreciate.

Best for Alexa: Amazon Fire TV Cube

Amazon

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Amazon Fire TV Cube makes it easy to control your entire setup without even touching your remote.

Specs

• Size: 5.5 x 1.4 x 0.62 inches
• Weight: 0.09 pounds (without batteries)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• Battery life: N/A (two AAA batteries)

Pros

• Powerful voice controls
• Preset app buttons
• Simplistic layout

Cons

• Voice recognition isn’t always perfect

It might seem unusual for the Amazon Fire TV Cube to show up on a list of the best universal remotes since it’s a … box. Just hear us out, though. The Fire Cube is a surprisingly powerful device. The set-top streaming device allows you to control your TV and any other Alexa-compatible smart devices in your home with voice commands you speak into its small remote.

When you set aside the Alexa functionality, the Fire Cube remote, which you’ll also find in many new Amazon Fire streaming devices, is fairly rudimentary. Once you get into the swing of using voice commands, though, you won’t care about any of the buttons, anyway.

Best budget: GE Universal Remote

GE home electrical

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The GE Universal Remote is easy to use, offers master volume control, and can connect with up to four devices at once.

Specs

• Size: 7 x 2.24 x 1 inches
• Weight: 0.2 pounds
• Connectivity: Infrared
• Battery life: N/A (requires two AAA batteries)

Pros

• Easy to use
• Connects with up to four devices
• Master volume control

Cons

• The plastic design feels cheap

If you just want to consolidate remotes and have no need for customizable buttons, touchscreens, voice controls, or any of the other features we’ve highlighted in our other picks, then you’re looking for the GE Universal Remote. For about $10, you’ll get a remote that comes pre-programmed with support for thousands of AV devices and can control up to four devices at once. It also supports master volume control, so you can adjust the volume of whatever device you’re connected to, whether your TV or Apple TV. It isn’t special, but it gets the job done and is very cheap. There’s nothing wrong with paying a little when that’s all you need.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best universal remotes

• Best overall: Logitech Harmony Elite
• Best premium: Logitech Harmony Companion
• Best for home theater: SofaBaton U1
• Best simple: One for All Smart Control 8 (URC7880)
• Best for Apple TV: Apple TV Siri Remote
• Best with Alexa: Amazon Fire TV Cube
• Best budget: GE Universal Remote

Clearly, we still have a deep affection for Logitech’s Harmony remotes. That said, there are still a few good options out there, so there’s no reason not to use one if you think it would help. It’s also worth noting that more and more devices can handle basic system-level TV controls, making it easier to get by with one remote if you’re just watching TV.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best universal remotes of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best budget		Vizio D-Series		SEE IT	An all-around solid TV for the price.
Best overall		TCL UHD Smart LED TV		SEE IT	One of the best TVs in this category when it comes to image quality.
Best for smaller spaces		Samsung UN40N5200AFXZA		SEE IT	Quality image in a smaller unit.

Just a few years ago, the best TVs under $300 weren’t much to write home about. You could get the tiny plasma TV Michael Scott had on the wall of his condo in The Office. The TV experience has, by and large, gotten more accessible and affordable in the past few years, with many options available that provide nice upgrades without demanding staggering financial commitments. It comes down to understanding what kinds of bells and whistles you want (or are willing to do without), the size of the space you’re looking to fill, brands you like, and other key factors—each of which will help you narrow your search and ensure you find exactly what you’re looking for. Here’s how to get the best TVs for under $300.

• Best overall: TCL UHD Smart LED TV
• Best all-in-one: Amazon Fire TV
• Best for sound quality: Insignia NS-42F201NA22
• Best for smaller spaces: Samsung UN40N5200AFXZA
• Best for streaming: Hisense 43A6G
• Best budget: Vizio D-Series

How we chose the best TVs under $300

We narrowed down our choices for the best TVs under $300 by reviewing product specifications, personal experiences, peer suggestions, professional reviews, and user impressions, then we selected our picks by carefully evaluating each product based on the following criteria:

• Reputation of the manufacturer: Is the brand well-known and respected in the field of TVs?
• Image quality: 4K is increasingly attainable at this price point
• Versatility: Do these TVs give you options as to how you mount or display them? 
• Entertainment offerings: Is this just a TV, or is it a smart TV platform capable of accessing various streaming, music, and gaming apps? 
• Price: Is the price fair?
• Customer reviews: How have customers rated the product?

The best TVs under $300: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: TCL UHD Smart LED TV

TCL

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: TCL has a reputation for delivering top-tier picture quality without exorbitant prices, making them a great entry point for those looking to upgrade without a lot of hassle. 

Specs

• Weight: 16.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 38.2 x 22.4 x3 inches without stand; 38.2 inches x 24.5 inches x 7.6 inches with stand
• Screen size: 43”

Pros

• Full 4K display
• Roku streaming built-in
• Voice-controlled searching
• Lots of I/O: 3 HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2 (one with HDMI ARC), 1 USB, Composite, Headphone Jack, Optical Audio Out inputs
• Easy to use, right out of the box

Cons

• Attachable legs can be wobbly and unstable

TCL has a strong reputation for delivering TVs that provide quality imagery upgrades without costing huge amounts of money. The company’s Roku smart TVs will have even a novice set up and streaming right out of the box, with only a Wi-Fi connection needed. Its multiple HDMI and USB inputs, as well as other ports, make it flexible with multiple devices and allow you to make subtle improvements (such as by adding a soundbar, which is recommended). 

If you have the ability or option to mount the TCL, that may be a preferable route to take as the legs (which easily screw on the bottom of the unit) often feel a little unstable, and could be risky on narrow TV stands. But with a voice-control remote and endless streaming options available through the internal Roku, it’s a great option for the budding cord-cutter and for instant family movie nights. 

Best all-in-one: Amazon Fire TV

Amazon

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The phrase “most bang for your buck” gets thrown around a lot, but it really does apply to this affordable 4K TV that brings decent screen size, dynamic resolution, and flexible entertainment options. 

Specs

• Weight: 15 pounds without stand
• Dimensions: 38.1 x 22.3 x 3.5 inches without stand
• Screen size: 43”

Pros

• Supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus
• 4 HDMI ports (3 HDMI 2.0 + 1 HDMI eARC 2.1)
• Remote can sync with Amazon Alexa
• Dolby Digital Plus speakers

Cons

• Can lose sharpness in brightly-lit rooms
• Blue “standby” LED light cannot be turned off

The Amazon Fire TV is designed to be the focal point of a smart home. Its HDMI 2.1 port makes it compatible with higher-resolution sources and its ability to sync with Alexa allows for voice-control options, while it can also wirelessly connect to Echo speakers for a nice audio boost—all of which make it well-suited for movies, gaming, as well as music streaming. It’s an all-in-one entertainment option at a great price. 

It should be noted, though, that brighter rooms can dilute the TV’s darker areas, turning what should be sharp blacks into more gray, and users have complained about the omnipresent LED light that never seems to turn off, which can be a concern if you’d rather your family room wasn’t constantly bathed in blue. But overall this is a versatile and functional entertainment unit that, for under $300, outperforms its price tag. 

Best for sound quality: Insignia NS-42F201NA22

Insignia

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Typically, lower-priced TVs sacrifice the audio … but not in the case of this affordable Insignia screen.

Specs

• Weight: 20.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 37.4 x 23.5 x 8.7 inches
• Screen size: 42”

Pros

• Built-in DTS TruSurround audio complements the 1080p LCD display
• Alexa voice-enabled search
• Smart home compatible
• 2 HDMI ports (1 ARC)

Cons

• Fire TV OS can freeze with unstable or weak Wi-Fi connection

Finding a lower-priced television that can provide you with decent enough sound to make the purchase of a soundbar or external speakers a luxury you won’t necessarily need isn’t easy, which is why Insignia makes the list. Its built-in DTS TruSurround audio won’t blow your eardrums out, but it’s a lot better than a lot of televisions in the same size and price range. 

The Insignia provides a solid, if not spectacular, 1080p HD viewing experience, while the pre-installed Fire TV app makes syncing with other Amazon devices, such as Alexa or Echo speakers, extremely intuitive and user-friendly. However, if you are not an Amazon Prime member, you may find the TV’s insistence that you log in (and its constant surfacing of content you need to pay extra for) a little annoying. 

Best for smaller spaces: Samsung UN40N5200AFXZA

SAMSUNG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Samsung is, obviously, a known and trusted name when it comes to TVs, so it’s not surprising that they deliver a lower-priced, lower-sized option that still delivers a sharp picture and smart TV capabilities. 

Specs

• Weight: ‎15.9 pounds
• Dimensions: 36.3 x 20.9 x 2.9 inches without stand
• Screen size: 40”

Pros

• Sharp PurColor 1080p image
• Mico-dimming technology helps enhance shadows and contrasts
• Can work with SmartThings app to sync with other smart home devices

Cons

• Some limitations on streaming app availability
• Image can depend on the strength or stability of the Wi-Fi connection

Sometimes you just need solid and dependable. Luckily, this Samsung offers both. Although it doesn’t bring a flashy 4K display and a lot of bells and whistles of the brand’s QLED flagships, it does have a sharp, dynamic 1080p display with surprisingly crisp colors and details, and its hardware—both leg stands and wall-mounts—ensure it’ll fit easily into smaller areas like bedrooms or offices. 

It may not have every single streaming platform (customers have complained that, for example, Hulu is not a compatible platform at the moment), it does have a large range of pre-installed apps as well as nearly 50 additional apps available for download ranging from free to subscription-based.

Best for streaming: Hisense 43A6G

Hisense

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Hisense was made with fast-paced sports action in mind, and delivers clear visuals optimized to take full advantage of any live broadcast no matter what game you’re in to. 

Specs

• Weight: ‎19.16 pounds
• Dimensions: ‎42 x 25 x 5 inches
• Screen size: 43”

Pros

• Motion Rate 120 image processing automatically adjusts the 1080p FHD LCD screen for high-speed broadcasts
• “Game mode” helps cut down on lag during video game play
• Android TV enabled

Cons

• Heavy

The Hisense TV is designed with games—both watching and playing—in mind, and caters to those looking to switch seamlessly between a live sports broadcast on TV and an in-game meet in your favorite console game. Its Motion Rate 120 image processing software promises smooth, high-speed visuals, without lag or blur, so you never miss a beat. Colors are bright and crisp and true, and the built-in Dolby audio speakers are surprisingly effective. 

This is generally a pretty rock solid TV, even if you’re not the world’s biggest sports fan. The only real issue might be that it’s about 5 pounds heavier than other, similar TVs in this size and price range, which could impact where you mount or stand it. Otherwise, this is a solid contender. 

Best budget: Vizio D-Series

VIZIO

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: An all-around solid 32-inch TV for the price, featuring Vizio’s SmartCast technology that allows for streaming without any additional hardware needed and a bright backlit LED display.

Specs

• Weight: 8.99 pounds
• Dimensions: 28.59 x 4.66 x 19.02 inches
• Screen size: 32”

Pros

• Full 1080p display
• Built-in Smart TV technology
• “V-Gaming Engine,” which means that the monitor optimizes picture mode for gaming automatically 

Cons

• Built-in speaker quality is weak
• Image can be choppy with weak or unreliable Wifi connections

Featuring a lightweight construction and sharp image even at 32 inches, the Vizio is a decent all-around option if you’re looking for an affordable smart TV. With just an internet connection, you can get a lot of the experience, including instant access to channels such as Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu (with subscriptions, of course). The sound quality is a little subpar and could benefit from a boost courtesy of external speakers or a soundbar. 

The automatic adjustment to gaming mode is a selling point for those who anticipate flipping between TV viewing and consoles repeatedly, or for those looking for a primary gaming hub. Lag can be an issue, though, so ensure you have the Vizio connected to a strong, reliable Wi-Fi connection. 

What to consider before buying one of the best TVs under $300

Let’s start off with one very important reality: In the under-$300 price range, you’re not going to have unlimited options. That said, you will still have some choices among the best TVs under $300 when it comes to size and resolution, which are the two biggest considerations when investing in a new TV.

Resolution

There are really only two options you need to consider when looking for an HD TV in this price range: HD/1080p or 4K. HD/1080p TVs are ideal if you’re looking for a TV that is 32 inches or smaller. At that size, you’ll get a crisp, clear 1920×1080 pixel image and won’t want for the extra boost you’d get from 4K. When you get into the 50-inches to 55-inches range, however, this is where you’ll want to opt for 4K to get the best picture possible, with its 3840×2160 pixel image. No, you won’t find OLED technology at this price point, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get a compelling picture from one of the best TVs under $300.

Size and space

Size consideration extends beyond just wall space and the desire to have the most eye-popping presentation possible. You need to consider, in tandem, the space of the room where the TV will live, in order to judge the proper seating distance from it to ensure optimal (and healthy) viewing. 

• For a 32-inch TV, you’ll want to sit about 2 ½ to 4 feet away at 4K (2 ½ feet at 1080p)
• For a 40-inch TV, you’ll want to sit about 3 to 3 ½ feet away at 4K (5 feet at 1080p)
• For a 50-inch TV, you’ll want to sit about 4 to 6 1/2 feet away at 4K (6 1/2 feet at 1080p)
• For a 60-inch TV, you’ll want to sit about 5 to 7 1/2 feet away at 4K (7 1/2 feet at 1080p)

Use

Your TV usually has to pull double- and triple-duty these days, so you’ll also need to consider whether you’ll be streaming vs. watching via cable hook-up (which may necessitate purchasing an add-on streaming device, like an Apple TV 4K, if you select a non-smart TV), whether you’ll be gaming, and how many devices you expect to have plugged in at one time.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best TVs under $300

A great viewing experience can be had for a relatively low cost, with the price of HD technology having come down to more accessible levels in recent years. Knowing exactly what you want also goes a long way toward pinpointing the best TVs under $300 and the one that’s right for you.

More TV roundups to help you find the perfect set

• Best 8K TVs
• Best TVs for gaming
• Best TVs for PS5
• Best OLED TVs
• Best QLED TVs
• Best Roku TVs
• Best TVs under $1,000
• Best 40-inch TVs
• Best 55-inch TVs
• Best 65-inch TVs
• Best 70-inch TVs
• Best 75-inch TVs
• Best outdoor TVs

The post The best TVs under $300 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best budget OLED		LG C2		SEE IT	It’s technically a 2022 model, but it’s phenomenal and you can find it for a great price.
Best overall		Samsung S95C OLED		SEE IT	Samsung’s flagship OLED TV adds brightness, but keeps the image quality and features.
Best budget		TCL 6-Series		SEE IT	Mini LED backlighting helps this affordable TV punch well above its price tag in terms of quality.

If you’re buying a new TV in 2023, it really should be a 4K TV. Those 1080p models can still keep up at smaller sizes, but the centerpiece of your living room really deserves the full 2160p experience. At the same time, 8K is still crawling along when it comes to affordable TVs and available native content. 4K really is the sweet spot, and it will be for some time. But choosing a specific model can be complicated. What backlight technology do you want? Do you need a 120Hz refresh rate? What the heck is VRR? Luckily, we’re here to break down these variables and provide expert insight into which TV should handle most of your binge-watching and video gaming needs. Let us help you pick the best 4K TV for your space, budget, and viewing habits.

• Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best budget: TCL 6-Series Google TV
• Best budget OLED: LG C2
• Best QLED: Samsung QN90C
• Best for gaming on a budget: Sony Bravia XR A90J

How we chose the best 4K TVs

The editors and writers at Popular Science have decades of collective experience when it comes to covering, reviewing, and generally nerding out over TVs. The authors of this story have written for countless publications, from general to enthusiast, including Maxim, Men’s Journal, Engadget, and Sound & Vision.

We’ve tapped into our collective experience to parse the specific differences between models for these selections. These selections are based on a foundation of personal hands-on experience, spec comparisons, user feedback, and opinions from other trusted names in the industry. We nerd out about TVs in our free time, too.

The best 4K TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you know what to look for when picking out the best 4K TV for you, you can go out and take your pick. Of course, if you need help getting started, our list features the cream of the crop. For most people, one of these five models will be the best 4K TV.

Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs

• Size: 55”, 65”, 75”
• Display: OLED
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, RF, Ethernet

Pros

• Exceptional OLED picture quality
• Bright enough for rooms with moderate light
• 4K/120Hz
• Ports live on a separate box connected with a cable for easy installs
• Solar-powered remote

Cons

• Expensive
• UI can feel bloated

You’ll see this TV pop up in many “best of” TV articles this year. The reason is simple: Samsung did a wonderful job with its most recent OLED display. This is a flagship TV, so it isn’t cheap, but it offers almost anything you could want from a current-generation TV. It offers four HDMI 2.1 ports to support current (and future) gaming consoles. Plus, all its ports live on a separate box connecting to the ultra-thin panel with a single wire. That makes this TV super versatile when it comes to installation.

When it comes to picture quality, I was very impressed during my viewing time with it. I hooked up a PS5, then played several games and watched a few high-res Blu-ray titles, including the latest Venom movie, which is particularly challenging in terms of color and contrast. Samsung’s OLED looked fantastic throughout all of it.

The built-in speakers aren’t phenomenal, but that’s easy to forgive on a wildly skinny TV. You’re best off adding a soundbar or other external audio. The UI can also get a bit clunky, but that’s more of a general Samsung thing than it is specific to this TV.

Quibbles aside, the real star here is the picture quality. It maintains the super-deep blacks that make OLED so appealing. But, due to Samsung’s new display tech, it’s considerably brighter than many OLEDs that came before it. I had no trouble watching content in a fully lit room with strong overhead lights on full-blast. If you have an absurdly bright room, you may still be better off with something like a QLED, but most viewers should be stoked on this TV if they can stomach the relatively high cost.

Best budget: TCL 6-Series Google TV

TCL

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Size: 55”, 65”, 75”
• Display: QLED
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 3, USB 2.0 x 2, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

• Mini-LED QLED 4K display
• Three HDMI 2.1 ports
• 4K/120Hz
• Affordable

Cons

• TCL makes three “6-Series” TVs, which can get confusing

If you are shopping on a budget, the TCL 6-Series with Google TV makes it very easy to cut some small technical corners and get a great 4K TV at a lower price than our other picks. It features a vibrant, color-accurate QLED 4K display and excellent brightness that can easily combat the sunniest living rooms. TCL also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, so you can enjoy the latest season of Stranger Things on Netflix the way it was meant to be seen. The R646 also features two HDMI 2.1 ports, so you can play games in 4K at 120Hz, with features like variable refresh rate available. At this price point, the TCL R646 is unbeatable, offering an impressive 4K picture and a brightness that provides the kind of “wow factor” that matches more expensive alternatives.

Because this TV relies on Mini LED tech, it can provide more localized dimming for content. That means light won’t seep into the dark areas and ruin the contrast ratio. That can seriously detract from the overall visual appeal. If you don’t want the Google TV version, TCL also offers a Roku version if you prefer that platform.

Best budget OLED: LG C2

LG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Sizes: 42, 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, 83”
• Display: OLED evo
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB 2.0 x 3, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

• Sharp, vibrant picture
• 4K/120Hz support
• Four HDMI 2.1 ports
• Up to 20 percent brighter than previous models

Cons

• OLED panel could be brighter

The LG C2 has just about everything you could want out of a TV even though it’s technically last generation’s model. As the OLED designation suggests, it provides spectacular color and contrast. But, thanks to the latest generation OLED evo panel, it’s also 20 percent brighter than its predecessor. It maintains the deep blacks for which OLED TVs are renowned while pumping up the maximum brightness and overcoming one of OLED’s only inherent weaknesses. As a result, the C2 is a phenomenal all-around TV that will fit in just about any space or use case. It offers a full suite of HDMI 2.1 ports for connecting to game consoles and streaming devices. It offers an array of variable refresh rate modes to prevent artifacts and jaggies during gaming sessions. Plus, it supports just about every form of HDR you could want. If you’re not ready to jump to the C2, you can still find pretty great deals on the C1 out there. If you’re not putting it in a super-bright room, then the C1 should perform excellently while saving you some money.

Best QLED: Samsung QN90C

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

• Sizes:
• Display:
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB 2.0 x 3, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

• Very bright
• 4K/120Hz support
• Four HDMI 2.1 ports
• Excellent overall picture quality

Cons

• Ports live on the TV instead of on an auxiliary box

If you want a bright display, QLED still reigns over almost everything else on the market. It’s not just about brute force brightness, however. Samsung has been refining its QLED TVs for years, and the company has managed to squeeze exceptional picture quality out of its QLEDs at every level. This is the high-end stuff, though, and it’s worth the extra investment. Samsung employs some of its most powerful image processing in this display, which allows it to excellently upscale content of just about every kind.

Despite its relatively skinny stature, this TV offers excellent built-in sound. I was genuinely impressed with the stock sound performance during my review period with the TV. I fired up Godzilla vs. Kong on Blu-ray, and the visuals were predictably meticulous, but the sound was also impressively boomy and clear despite the lack of extra help.

I still find Samsung’s TV UI clunky. I typically just remember the buttons that get me where I want to go rather than trying to navigate the on-screen menus. And I would have loved for Samsung to put the ports on an external box like it has with the OLEDs and other high-end models. But that’s not a deal breaker.

At the end of the day, this is a killer TV that will perform in literally any room. While it’s capable of impressive brightness, it doesn’t rely on it as a selling point. With Film Maker Mode turned on, it can reproduce all the color and contrast accurately and elegantly.

Best for gaming: Sony Bravia XR A90J

Sony

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Specs

• Size: 55”, 65”, 83”
• Display: OLED
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB 2.0 x 3, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Pros

• Gorgeous picture
• Ample ports and features for gaming
• Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay

Cons

• Expensive

The Sony Bravia XR A90J features a fantastic 4K picture that produces perfect blacks and a relatively bright HDR experience for an OLED. It also supports a wide color gamut, high contrast ratio, and a fast response time, ensuring every game, movie, and TV show looks flawless. It also features Variable Refresh Rate support, a gaming staple, and special PS5-exclusive features, like automatically switching in and out of HDR mode when you start playing a game or other HDR-compatible content on the console. If we’re being honest, the A90J is pretty close to fitting in our “overall” and “best OLED” categories, but we feel it’s best suited for gaming, especially if you’re playing on a PS5.

Because this model is technically a generation old, you can typically find it at a very affordable price, compared to other TVs with similar overall picture quality and specifications. Don’t be afraid to save yourself some cash to buy video games.

Things to consider when choosing the best 4K TVs

When searching for the best 4K TVs, we focused on finding models that balance display quality, color accuracy, port selection, gaming features, and price. Together, these elements help us distinguish between a good TV and a great one.

QLED vs. OLED

Two luxury display technologies are central in lighting up the best 4K TVs. On a technical level, OLED and QLED take different approaches, but both enhance the brightness and contrast of your TV, improving its picture quality over older models.

Organic Light-Emitting Diode displays, or OLED for short, are currently considered the cream of the crop among high-end 4K TVs. Though it shares three letters with “LED” TVs you’re more familiar with, OLED is actually an entirely new display technology. In OLED TVs, each pixel generates its own light, allowing these sets to turn individual pixels on and off. This gives viewers more life-like blacks, rather than the darkest possible gray. You also won’t see any light bleeding out into on-screen shadows, as they do on older LCD TVs.

Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diode displays, commonly known as QLED, are a next-generation upgrade of the conventional LED TV. QLED TVs feature a transmissive layer of “quantum dots” in the screen panel, enhancing a TV’s color, brightness, and contrast. High-end QLED TVs pair that with a backlighting feature called “local dimming,” which allows your TV to enhance or reduce its brightness in specific areas to improve contrast, not unlike OLED displays.

OLED displays offer sharper contrast and “true” blacks that QLED can’t replicate, so they are the premier choice if money is no object. On the other hand, OLED TVs feature comparatively low brightness, which may be a liability in a living room with a lot of natural light. However, manufacturers have begun to remedy that problem by introducing new materials into the OLED formula.

Since QLED panels are based on LED technology, you can find them in a wider variety of price points than OLED. That said, there’s a big difference between an affordable QLED TV with moderately enhanced colors and a top-of-the-line QLED model with local dimming and other enhancements.

As always, the best way to find your preference is to go to a showroom and see the difference for yourself. Short of that, we recommend letting price and logistical considerations guide you to one type of TV or the other.

High dynamic range (HDR)

High Dynamic Range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows your TV automatically its brightness to create more contrast between well-lit and darkened on-screen elements. In situations with challenging lighting, it enhances the overall image with greater detail and color depth. Let’s say you’re looking into a dark room from the outside: HDR can simultaneously display detail in the bright space outside and inside the dimly lit room. TVs with HDR are also capable of displaying more vibrant, varied colors. In addition to enabling more precise contrast, bright colors will look more full and vibrant.

There are a few different standards of HDR, including HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. HDR10 is the most widely adopted and is an open, free standard supported by everything from 4K TVs to Blu-ray players. Dolby Vision offers a few advantages over HDR, including “dynamic” metadata, which allows your TV to adjust its brightness on a scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis. HDR10 uses “static” metadata, which means it sets brightness levels once for the content you consume. HDR10+ also uses dynamic metadata similar to Dolby Vision.

Generally, today’s top TVs feature support for a few different HDR standards, but for the best possible HDR experience, you’ll want Dolby Vision or HDR+.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hz (Hertz), refers to the frequency your TV refreshes what’s on the screen every second. Refresh rate has been a core feature on computer monitors for some time but has only become a serious consideration for TVs in the last two years. If you’re buying a high-end TV for gaming and own either a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, you should hold out for one that supports a higher refresh rate.

Prior to 2020, all TVs supported the same 60Hz refresh rate. Most TVs still do, and that’s perfectly fine for watching streaming services, cable, movies, and playing most consoles. With the PS5 and Xbox Series X, though, you have the ability to play some games at up to 120 frames per second, unlocking smoother animations. Likewise, some live sports broadcasts will benefit from a higher refresh rate.

HDMI 2.1

To enable 4K at 120fps, your TV must support HDMI 2.1, the newest version of the standard TV connection for plugging everything from cable boxes to game consoles to streaming devices.

HDMI 2.1 can transfer data at up to 48Gbps, theoretically allowing you to watch 10K video at 120Hz on the right TV. For now, you only need it to watch or play in 4K at 120Hz on the small number of games that support those specs on PS5 and Xbox Series X. 

There are other reasons you’ll want it, though. HDMI 2.1 supports many other features that can enhance your viewing and gaming experiences, including Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), a feature that enables Game Mode on your TV (if that feature is available) and typically reduces input lag. It also opens the door for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) over HDMI, which can stabilize volatile frame rates in games.

Unfortunately, TVs equipped with HDMI 2.1 don’t always support every feature introduced by the latest standard. Making matters worse, manufacturers aren’t always transparent about the HDMI 2.1 features supported by their TV. You’ll have to pay close attention to what the manufacturer says when purchasing … and then get coordinating HDMI cables.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 4K TVs

• Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best budget: TCL 6-Series Google TV
• Best budget OLED: LG C2
• Best QLED: Samsung QN90C
• Best outdoor: Furrion Aurora Outdoor TV
• Best for gaming on a budget: Sony Bravia XR A90J

You can’t go wrong with our recommendations if you want to upgrade to a 4K TV. You’ll get top-notch picture quality, ample port selection, and support for next-generation technology, including HDMI 2.1 and the latest HDR standards. The good news is there has never been a better time to jump on the bandwagon with more ways to enjoy 4K content, thanks to streaming services and next-generation consoles. The LG C1 is, pound-for-pound, the best 4K TV available, hitting all the essential benchmarks while offering an incredible OLED image. Once you see the higher resolution yourself, you’ll wonder what took you so long to upgrade. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 4K TVs for 2023, as chosen by experts appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Sennheiser AMBEO Plus		SEE IT	It offers a striking soundstage for a single unit.
Best 5.1		JBL Bar 700		SEE IT	Detachable rear channels make this bar stand out without forcing you to pack more speakers in your room.
Best budget		Roku Streambar Pro		SEE IT	Roku’s Streambar Pro is one of the best values in the entire world of home theater audio.

It’s more affordable than ever before to take your home media viewing experience to new heights thanks to streaming services, smart TVs, and soundbars. With this increased content availability enriched by new surround sound audio formats, a whole new world of entertainment possibilities comes to light. One of the easiest, most space-efficient ways to drastically improve the quality of your home theater’s audio is by upgrading to a soundbar to give you sound as vivid as the 4K video you’re probably enjoying.

The top soundbars are compact, quick to install, and an unbeatable way to present your movies, music, and video games with elevated volume, clarity, and immersion. Unlike a traditional speaker system with an AV receiver, a soundbar usually requires only a single connection to your television to switch between sources. These systems are often Bluetooth-compatible from the get-go, so you can also sync your tablet, phone, and other streaming devices. If you’re looking for a quick and cost-effective way to upgrade your home theater system, we’ll help you find the best soundbars to do the job.

• Best overall: Sennheiser AMBEO Plus
• Best compact: Bose TV Speaker
• Best 2.1: Samsung BW-H550/ZA Soundbar
• Best 5.1: JBL Bar 700
• Best for music: Sonos Arc
• Best budget: Roku Streambar Pro

How we chose the best soundbars

We’re nerds about everything here at PopSci, but audio is especially special to us. The PopSci writers and editors even include a few certified audiophiles, so we know a solid speaker when we see it. We used a mixture of online research and hands-on experience to survey dozens of models on the market. We were looking for the right mix of fidelity, features, and price.

Most of the items on this list are relatively affordable, and that’s by design. There are some ultra-high-end multi-speaker Dolby Atmos and wireless surround options, but a components system is specific to very demanding users. If you’re looking to get into the soundbar world, these are great models to get you started and upgrade your TV’s puny audio performance.

The best soundbars: Reviews & Recommendations

Every living room, bedroom, and home theater is different, making finding the right soundbar frustrating. Our recommendations—both standalone units and soundbar + subwoofer combos—span various sizes and prices, so you can find the one that suits your space and budget. We also focused on finding soundbars designed to work with additional speakers, allowing you to upgrade your home theater system over time as your budget and space change.

Best overall: Sennheiser AMBEO Plus

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: If you prize dynamic tonality, this is the premier soundbar … with a premium price tag.

Specs

• Dimensions: 41.38 x 4.76 x 3.03 inches
• Surround sound: Simulated 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos
• Subwoofer: Built-in, with an additional wireless subwoofer sold separately

Pros

• Carries on a tradition of No. 1 all-in-one Dolby Atmos soundbars
• Proprietary Dolby Atmos virtualization is convincing and captivating
• Small than its predecessor without too many sacrifices
• Can be augmented with a subwoofer

Cons

• No option for physical surround speakers
• Pricey
• Subwoofer is an additional $599
• HDMI ports are 2.0a, so they don’t support all next-gen gaming console protocols passthrough

Descended from the Sennheiser AMBEO Max, a 40-pound behemoth of a soundbar, the AMBEO Plus is a $1,499 indulgence that’s not quite as extravagant as its predecessor yet remains nearly as affecting. Featuring seven full-range speakers and dual 4-inch subwoofers in its rounded-off chassis, the 14-pound Plus can virtualize a 7.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos system with striking clarity and precise imaging thanks to proprietary processing (an AMBEO batch physically lights up on the soundbar whenever engaged).

Coming from a venerable brand renowned for audiophile headphones imbued with rich midrange and spacious staging, the AMBEO Plus is every bit a Sennheiser. It’s sonically expressive without even a tinge of artificiality and technically adept enough to conjure every directional cue, even height effects—helped by an automated calibration system. A well-appointed Smart Control app (iOS and Android) lets you tweak soundfield effects, voice enhancement, voice assistants, night mode, EQ, and more, plus view information on your connections/audio streams. Whether watching movies or listening to music, the 400W AMBEO Plus is adept at scale and strength, preserving detail without sacrificing impact—bass reaches nearly 40Hz. The original 13-driver AMBEO—aka the rebranded Max—is still superior in terms of gripping slam and dazzling reflections (and $1,000 more expensive), as the AMBEO Plus folds channels in more like a 5.1.2. Still, the rumble gap narrows noticeably if you pair the AMBEO Plus with the wireless 8-inch 350W Sennheiser AMBEO Subwoofer.

In terms of connectivity, there any multiple HDMI ports with 4K Dolby Vision passthrough, though not 120Hz for gaming. Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio are all decoded, and Bluetooth 5.0, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Chromecast give you access to content from basically any and every source. Yes, the AMBEO Plus is the most expensive soundbar in our selection, but it’s undeniably the best all-in-one soundbar to transform a room with limited room. If you’re investing in an OLED TV, you deserve audio that’s equally vibrant.

Best compact: Bose TV Speaker

Bose

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Why it made the cut: The TV speaker will provide great sound without taking up much space.

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.02 x 23.38 x 2.21 inches
• Surround sound: No
• Subwoofer: None

Pros

• Compact size
• Selectable sound modes
• Voice enhancement

Cons

• No smart features

At 23.4-inches wide the Bose TV Speaker is almost half the size of other soundbars we’re recommending in this guide, but it stands tall when it comes to dialogue enhancement. The teeny, tiny shell houses a three-driver audio system featuring a pair of full-range drivers angled outward and a single tweeter pointed forward. This configuration is designed to offer the best audio quality from a 2.0 soundbar while presenting the widest-possible soundstage. The TV Speaker won’t be able to stand toe-to-toe with longer soundbars when it comes to stereo separation—this is physics, not Bose’s lack of engineering chops—but it’s good to see the company use the space it had as efficently as possible.

You can fill out the TV Speaker’s sound by connecting a Bose wired subwoofer to the system—though the price of adding low-end is $500. Thankfully, this augmentation won’t be necessary, as the TV Speaker’s sound should be sufficiently better than the audio system built into your set. Despite the TV Soundbar’s small size, Bose allows you to connect this soundbar to your TV using an HDMI or optical audio cable. It also features an AUX input, so you can plug an audio device into it directly, and Bluetooth support if you’d like to stream music to the soundbar from your phone, tablet, or computer.

Bose managed to fit most of the features found in its higher-end soundbars into the TV Speaker, but it had to cut support for Amazon’s Alexa. This isn’t a huge deal, but something to consider if you’re looking for a soundbar that doubles as a smart-home controller in your room. If that’s not a concern, and you want a compact audio system for your room, this is the soundbar to get.

Best 2.1: Samsung BW-H550/ZA Soundbar

Amazon

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Why it made the cut: This straight-ahead system doesn’t get bogged down with tons of features you won’t use and, instead, focuses on performance.

Specs

• Dimensions: 33.9 x 3 x 2.3 inches
• Surround Sound: Dolby Audio and DTS: Virtual X
• Subwoofer: Wireless included

Pros

• Great sound
• Included subwoofer
• AI-driven sound adjustments

Cons

• Lacks Dolby Atmos

This Samsung soundbar sports three-channel audio and includes a dedicated center speaker and a satellite subwoofer for powerful, enhanced bass and 3D surround sound effects. It offers superior multi-connectivity via Bluetooth, allowing two smart devices to remain paired at once, and the HDMI ARC interface allows for single-cable audio connections to and from a TV with a compatible port.

Regarding surround, this bar supports DTS: Virtual X to simulate a system with many more speakers installed around the room. Samsung’s Smart Sound technology analyzes the content you’re watching and automatically adjusts its performance to match it best. That also helps keep subtle sounds like ambient horror sounds or important dialog from getting lost. But, if needed, you can manually trigger a Voice Enhancement mode. Want more rumble? A bass boost is available at the push of a button. Need less bass? There’s also a Night Mode.

The relatively basic black design is refreshing compared to more complex devices. It melts into the room, and you hear it but don’t necessarily see it. This is undoubtedly the best Samsung soundbar on a budget (though if you want a truly immersive experience, the $1,699 HW-Q990B is the best Samsung package, full stop).

Best 5.1: JBL Bar 700

Brandt Ranj

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Why it made the cut: This soundbar’s detachable, battery-powered speakers offer a truly authentic 5.1 surround experience.

Specs

• Dimensions: 4.7 x 46.2 x 2.2 inches
• Surround sound: 5.1 Dolby Atmos
• Subwoofer: Wireless included

Pros

• Detachable speakers make it very flexible
• Powerful wireless subwoofer
• True surround sound

Cons

• Long when fully attached

There are a lot of soundbars that list support for surround sound as one of their features, but that’s not really the case. Designers can create a more 3D sound experience by supporting the right audio formats and positioning drivers in different positions to mimic a traditional 5.1 surround sound system, but it’s not the same as having a true multi-speaker system. JBL’s Bar 700 is different.

The 46.2-inch soundbar has a pair of battery-powered detachable speakers, which can be placed behind you to create a true 5.1, Dolby Atmos-compatible system, with the bar handling the front right, front left, and center channels. All of these speakers are synced up to a wireless 10-inch subwoofer, which adds enough bass to round out the sound without being unnecessarily boomy. I was skeptical about whether this system would work, but its 620W of convenient cinematic sound passed every test with flying colors.

It’s worth noting that the Bar 700 is pretty long when the rear speakers are attached, so you’ll need to ensure your media center/credenza has enough space. It’s a soundbar best paired with a TV that’s 55 inches in size minimum, and it’s easily connected via HDMI eARC (plus there’s an HDMI input with 4K and Dolby Vision passthrough). Beyond that, this soundbar is an excellent addition to your living room or home theater. The center channel has enough separation from the right and left that I could always hear dialogue clearly, even in movie or TV scenes with a lot of action. The center driver was good enough that I could also differentiate between different voices even if characters spoke in the same register.

My biggest concern about the Bar 700’s modular speaker system was that attaching and detaching the rear speakers would be a pain, but that was never the case. The magnetic attachment mechanism JBL developed makes these processes easy while also ensuring these additional speakers never accidentally pop out. The only other problem I foresaw with the Bar 700 was desynced audio. JBL mitigates this by running you through a setup procedure using its app (iOS and Android), which takes about five minutes to complete. The soundbar and rear speakers fire off audio to get a sense of the size and shape of your room. Once the setup was complete, I never had an issue with desyncing audio.

Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi-equipped, the Bar 700 Wi-Fi comes with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast built-in, so you can cast music/content from your phone if you don’t want to fire up your streaming device. And you can customize modes, voice assistant, and EQ with the JBL app. If you’ve longed for a surround sound system with discrete rear speakers but don’t have enough space (or outlets) to set up separates, JBL’s Bar 700 is a great solution. Just pop off the soundbar’s endcaps, fire up the rears on the couch corners, then reassemble at the night’s end or when it’s time to recharge the batteries (rated for 10 hours).

Like this concept, but want to kick it up several notches? The JBL 1300X is a 11.1.4-channel soundbar with detachable surround speakers and wireless subwoofer, though all those extra channels take the price from $899 to $1,699.

Best for music: Sonos Arc

Tony Ware

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Sonos Arc is a futureproofed soundbar perfect for music lovers and cinephiles alike.

Specs

• Dimensions: 3.4 x 45 x 4.5 inches
• Surround sound: Yes, Simulated Standalone or True Dolby Atmos with additional components
• Subwoofer: Wireless sold separately

Pros

• Great sound for music
• Support for Dolby Atmos
• Can be augmented by additional speakers

Cons

• Cost

If you want to buy a piece of home theater equipment and not consider upgrading it for a decade, the Sonos Arc is worth its admittedly high price. The Santa Barbara-based company—pioneers in the whole-home audio sector—designs everything in-house, maintaining every stage of design and tuning. And Sonos develops each purpose-built component with compatibility and longevity in mind. The uber-long soundbar has forward, side, and upward-firing drivers (11 total), which we found deliver surprisingly good Dolby Atmos surround sound whether listening to music or watching TV shows or movies.

Your experience will depend on the size and shape of your room, since the effect requires sound to bounce off your walls and ceilings. To offer the best possible experience, we recommend tuning the Arc using the TruePlay setting in Sonos’ app (iOS and Android). Within a few minutes, the soundbar will run a series of tones to get a sense of how your room is set up and optimize its performance accordingly. We’re still partial to multi-speaker surround sound systems, but the $899 Arc is all you really need for cinematic surround sound.

On top of its ability to handle cinema soundtracks and other streaming content, the Sonos Arc delivers crystal-clear sound when listening to music, whether via HDMI, AirPlay 2, or streaming services over WiFi through the Sonos app. Bass is present but restrained, instruments and vocals in the midrange sound smooth, and we never heard sibilance or harsh treble. Again, your experience will vary based on the music you listen to and how well it was mastered. If you’re having trouble with how your music sounds through the Sonos Arc, we’re almost positive it’s not a hardware issue. In our tests, stereo and Dolby Atmos tracks had a very wide soundstage, which made it easy to pick out each instrument in a song individually.

We’re comfortable recommending the Sonos Arc to any music lover on its own. Still, to get the full Dolby Atmos experience, we recommend augmenting it with a pair of WiFi-connected Sonos Era 300 multidirectional speakers and a wireless Sonos Sub. These components will expand the Sonos Arc into a 7.1.4 system, taking over as rear surround/upfiring speakers (along with handling the low end) and leaving the soundbar as the front right, front left, and center channels of a traditional surround sound system. With that setup, you’ll get better sound overall—plus the flexibility to use the six positional drivers of the immersive made-for-Dolby-Atmos Era 300 speakers standalone in other rooms if you want—though it’ll cost you quite a bit to make those upgrades ($449 per Era 300 and $799 for the Sub Gen. 3). Sonos supports its speakers for roughly a decade, so it’s undoubtedly worth building out their ecosystem piece by piece.

If music is as important to you as TV shows and movies, especially if you want to integrate a multi-room audio system, the Sonos Arc is the only home theater purchase you should make in 2023.

Best budget: Roku Streambar Pro

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Roku’s Streambar Pro has features you can’t find in soundbars several times its price.

Specs

• Dimensions: 32.2 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches
• Surround sound: None
• Subwoofer: Wireless sold separately

Pros

• Built-in 4K media streamer
• Can be augmented with additional speakers
• Sharp look

Cons

• No surround sound
• No built-in soundbar

We’re typically wary of two-in-one gadgets, but Roku’s Streambar Pro is a very notable exception to our rule. The soundbar actually has an entire 4K Roku media streamer built into it, which you can use to turn an old TV smart. This is especially nice if you’ve recently cut the cord and want an easy way to stream TV shows and movies from online services. You don’t need to use the Streambar Pro’s built-in Roku, but the value of this feature is part of what makes this soundbar such a great deal.

The Streambar Pro’s other strong suit is its surprisingly good sound. We say surprisingly because we didn’t expect quite as much vocal clarity or stereo separation from a soundbar at its price point. If you’ve struggled to hear what people are saying in movies or find the sound of explosions lacking in action-packed sequences, this is your answer. Roku was smart not to pack any surround sound features into the soundbar itself, instead redirecting those engineering resources into developing its Wireless Bass Pro subwoofer and Roku Wireless Speakers. Adding those components will allow you to enjoy your media in true surround sound without connecting them with cables.

It’s telling that Roku bundles the Streambar Pro plus the aforementioned additional speakers in a multi-piece bundle that costs just over $500 (hence its prominence in our best soundbars under $500 roundup, also home to additional options from JBL, Samsung, and Sonos, appropriately). Bose charges roughly the same price for just a subwoofer. There are very few true values in home theater audio, so we couldn’t be happier for Roku’s Streambar Pro to stand out for its audio quality and cost.

Things to consider when buying the best soundbars

How big or small should your soundbar be?

One of the most convenient features of most soundbar systems is the understated form that helps them blend in with your existing entertainment center. It’s generally recommended that you choose a soundbar that doesn’t exceed the length of your television for aesthetic reasons. The length and size of the soundbar don’t always translate to volume and power, so you won’t be making too many compromises by going with a smaller soundbar.

The most important consideration when choosing a soundbar for its size is that it retains flexibility and versatility despite its understated appearance. Many miniature soundbars pack Bluetooth connectivity, subwoofers, and other special features into their cases without a hitch. You don’t have to worry about sacrificing essential features to ensure that your smaller rooms don’t get cluttered. After all, you’re buying a soundbar for its major improvements over your television’s speaker system.

What kind of surround sound are you looking for?

Some basic soundbars offer typical stereo sound, but many have adopted surround sound technology that can add an entirely new dimension to the content you watch. The most relevant thing to notice in modern soundbars is Dolby Atmos. This object-based surround sound standard works with the most popular streaming services and provides an overall excellent experience with some consistency, assuming the sound designer has done something compelling with the 100+ sonic placements available to them.

Balance tuning versus power

An oft-overlooked factor while shopping for a soundbar is its ability to adequately translate cinematic audio and dialogue in the best way for your room. For example, a soundbar with a high wattage rating and high maximum sound pressure level might appear loud on paper. Still, if this sound is muddy or if the device’s design renders dialogue muffled and unintelligible, it completely defeats the purpose of adding a soundbar to your system in the first place. In this way, volume and power capabilities don’t always translate to better sound for your space. Suppose you’re looking to max out your entertainment system’s volume with a soundbar. In that case, it’s important to consider a model combining high wattage and maximum volume with manufacturer-designed tuning.

The system used to tune a soundbar—or any sound system, for that matter—involves using equalization to boost certain frequencies and cut others, which can enhance the audio in home environments. Unless you’re investing in a high degree of sound treatment for your theater room, chances are that there are some undesirable resonances in your space that can exacerbate poorly tuned audio. This effect becomes even more pronounced at higher volumes, so it’s important to pick out a tuned or tunable system if you’re going to listen loud or if you’re in a smaller room. With a properly tuned soundbar, dialogue becomes clear, action sequences retain impact without being ear-piercing, and most importantly, it drastically cuts the need for constant turning up and down of your television volume. If any of these issues apply to your situation, a tuned soundbar is the only way to go.

Is your home a smart one?

Smart home systems run via Alexa and Google Home transform how we live and work around the house and beyond. Activities that were once interrupted by the need to pick up the phone, sit down at the computer, or fumble with a device have been made quicker and easier thanks to voice control integration across a whole gamut of home appliances. And since your entertainment center is a focal point of your time spent at home, it only makes sense to consider a soundbar system that offers voice control compatibility, whether you’re planning on expanding your current smart home system or starting from scratch.

One of the biggest perks of choosing a soundbar with smart home compatibility is its elevated ability to play high-volume music and media while still being able to hear your voice over the noise and execute your commands without turning the volume down or pressing pause. Think of a voice control-enabled soundbar as a more souped-up version of a traditional smart home speaker: you can turn the music up and down, resume and pause programming, check the status of your smart cooker, air quality, temperature, and so much more from the comfort of your seat. A system with this capability also eliminates the need for a separate smart speaker for your TV area or living room altogether, which is a plus if you’re trying to save space or retain a minimalist sense of decor.

Do you want to connect to Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is one of the most prevalent and useful interfaces for wirelessly streaming audio from your devices to your speaker systems, and most soundbars on the market do offer some form of Bluetooth connectivity. Options like this allow the soundbar to work for you and help you get more out of your system whenever you’re listening to music or podcasts around the house. Most televisions don’t come standard with a Bluetooth audio receiver, so not only does this technology open up your entertainment center as a location for streaming audio, but it’s also an incredible improvement over a traditional portable Bluetooth speaker.

Do you need to connect multiple devices?

HDMI is the most commonly used wired interface for soundbars to receive audio from and send it to your TV. Some soundbar systems also use this connection to receive volume information directly from your TV remote. Suppose you’ll deal with sound from numerous sources like Blu-ray players, video game consoles, and streaming services. In that case, it’s important to consider whether your soundbar has enough connectivity to support your needs and how efficiently it can interface with various devices (and that you have appropriately rated HDMI cables). Generally speaking, more connectivity is always better due to the flexibility that it affords, as devices that play well with others make your life easier and require less tinkering. Increased connectivity options come at a price of both cost and size, so it’s important to weigh your needs for flexibility against these factors.

FAQs

Final thoughts on shopping for the best soundbars

• Best overall: Sennheiser AMBEO Plus
• Best compact: Bose TV Speaker
• Best 2.1: Samsung BW-H550/ZA Soundbar
• Best 5.1: JBL Bar 700
• Best for music: Sonos Arc
• Best budget: Roku Streambar Pro

A soundbar is an easy choice for drastically improving the quality of your home theater, thanks to the easy setup and maintenance that these systems provide. The wide range of choices in this product category ensures that there’s an option out there for every budget and need, from compact single-bar systems to fully-fledged surround sound setups. In looking for a soundbar system, consider the size of your space and the connectivity your home theater needs to ensure that your add-on provides the best cinematic experience for you.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best soundbars for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Vizio Elevate		SEE IT	Vizio’s top-of-the-line soundbar is one of the best in its class for Dolby Atmos performance and uses two rotating speakers to add height to your system’s audio.
Best for the money		Vizio M512a-H6		SEE IT	The M512a-H6 offers a solid price-to-performance ratio and offers Dolby Atmos compatibility and 4K passthrough at 60 frames per second.
Best for music		Vizio M215a-J6		SEE IT	This 2.1-channel soundbar includes a single subwoofer and uses DTS Virtual:X to approximate surround sound using fewer speakers.

As a leading manufacturer of smart TVs and soundbars, Vizio stands out from the pack with an emphasis on products with functional design and ease of setup combined with cutting-edge features and competitive pricing. The best Vizio soundbars come in a variety of sizes and configurations to meet the needs of the smallest and largest home theaters alike, and because each model includes everything that you need to get started from cables to mounting hardware, Vizio soundbars are an ideal choice for pulling off a home theater upgrade with minimal fuss. From the most compact single-unit soundbars to multi-speaker surround sound systems with Dolby Atmos support, this list of the best Vizio soundbars will point you in the right direction for your home theater upgrade no matter what type of space you’re working with.

• Best overall: Vizio Elevate
• Best for the money: Vizio M512a-H6
• Best for music: Vizio M215a-J6
• Best for TV: Vizio M21d-H8R
• Best budget: Vizio V20-J8

How we chose the best Vizio soundbars

Vizio’s soundbars cover a lot of ground with their designs and have a little something for everyone. To narrow down the options, we combined our own personal experience with the opinions of trusted peers and online user impressions. Here are some of the key criteria we looked at when compiling our list:

The best Vizio soundbars offer some degree of surround sound processing, whether through Dolby Atmos or DTS:X/Virtual:X—object-based surround that assigns each sound a height as well as a horizontal location in a 360-degree sphere around the listener. Our list contains three Dolby Atmos-ready soundbars that have the up-firing speakers to bounce tones off the ceiling/walls for the optimal audio experience, while the remaining two offer surround sound simulation. Helping facilitate the processing of the latest surround sound formats are HDMI ARC/eARC interfaces for connecting soundbars to smart TVs, and every soundbar on this list includes one of the two. Some of these soundbars include additional HDMI inputs to connect external devices to the soundbar (such as Blu-ray players and gaming consoles) to play audio before passing video to the TV. So don’t forget compatible HDMI cables!

If you’re adding a soundbar to your television, the overall size of the product is key to determining whether it belongs in your space. We selected Vizio soundbars from every part of the size spectrum, from the ultra-compact V20-J8 to the multi-component Vizio Elevate. In addition to how components connect, Vizio’s soundbars come with varying levels of wireless connectivity. All of the soundbars on this list are Bluetooth compatible, but only the Vizio Elevate has Wi-Fi and Chromecast capabilities. Unfortunately, none of Vizio’s soundbars offer native Apple AirPlay support but you can easily circumvent this if you have an Apple TV in your home cinema setup.

The best Vizio soundbars: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Vizio Elevate

VIZIO

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Why it made the cut: Vizio’s flagship soundbar system offers some of the best Dolby Atmos performance in its class and offers extensive connectivity options.

Specs

• Width: 48 inches (soundbar), 10.8 inches (subwoofer)
• Channels: 5.1.4
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 2 x HDMI In

Pros

• Adaptive rotating speakers switch between enhanced height and focused sound
• Full-featured kit includes a wireless sub and two satellite speakers
• Thoughtful design features including a backlit remote and Chromecast

Cons

• Satellites must be wired to the subwoofer
• No Apple AirPlay or built-in voice assistant support
• Has EQ, but lacks custom room-based calibration features

The Vizio Elevate is the best Vizio soundbar overall thanks to its top-of-the-line feature set, build quality, and overall value factor. Featuring a 340-watt amplifier, an 8-inch wireless subwoofer, and two satellite speakers, the Elevate excels at playing Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content thanks to its 18 drivers total, which deliver a 30Hz – 20KHz frequency range and pump out significant low-end rumble within a wide, immersive soundstage. The Elevate stands out from other soundbars in the market in part thanks to its unique auto-rotating adaptive speakers at each end, which can pivot upward to reflect sound off the ceiling and add height to your audio or pivot fully forward to add width. The system also features two HDMI inputs with 4K passthrough and a dedicated HDMI eARC port to allow for high-quality connections to all your devices.

The Elevate offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and it also has built-in support for Chromecast, but it’s unfortunately incompatible with AirPlay and lacks built-in voice assistant support (though it accepts commands via Bluetooth). It does, however, include a dedicated AUX port for plugging in a separate smart speaker so users can take advantage of Elevate’s added volume. As far as EQ goes, the Elevate offers four presets, as well as some basic treble and bass controls for finetuning, but there’s no advanced room-specific calibration option. The unit’s satellite speakers also have to plug directly into the subwoofer, which may limit users’ placement options depending upon their space.

Best with surround sound: Vizio M512a-H6

Vizio

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The Vizio M512a-H6 is a well-rounded 5.1.2 soundbar with surround sound and a competitively priced option for entering the Dolby Atmos ecosystem.

Specs

• Width: 40 inches (soundbar), 8.3 inches (subwoofer)
• Channels: 5.1.2
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth, HDMI IN

Pros

• Competitive Dolby Atmos and true surround sound performance
• 4K HDMI passthrough and Bluetooth connectivity
• Customizable sound includes EQ presets, night mode, and dialogue enhancement

Cons

• No Wi-Fi, AirPlay, or Chromecast
• Satellites require a subwoofer connection
• 11 speakers compared to the Vizio Elevate’s 18

If you’re looking for a true surround sound system with Dolby Atmos but don’t want to shell out on the top-of-the-line Vizio Elevate, the M512a-H6 is a fantastic alternative that packs similar features in a slightly smaller form at around half the price. It includes two satellite speakers and a 6-inch wireless subwoofer to complement a 40-inch central soundbar with up-firing speakers for added dimension and immersion. In total, 11 drivers deliver a 45Hz – 20kHz frequency range. Like the other soundbars in Vizio’s product line, the M512a-H6 is Bluetooth-enabled and features a smart speaker auxiliary input in lieu of built-in virtual assistant support. It has a single 4K passthrough-capable HDMI input and an HDMI eARC port, as well as an optical audio input.

Just like the Elevate, the M512a-H6 uses satellite speakers that must be wired up to the subwoofer and, like all Vizio soundbars, the unit doesn’t support AirPlay. On top of that, the M512a-H6 lacks Chromecast and Wi-Fi compatibility, so you’ll need to look to the Elevate if that’s a feature you require. The unit features seven fewer speakers and two fewer channels than the more flexible Elevate but, overall, the M512a-H6 offers terrific surround sound and Dolby Atmos performance for its price.

Best for music: Vizio M215a-J6

VIZIO

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The M215a-J6 is a powerful and compact Atmos-ready soundbar system that’s perfect for adding volume and sub-bass to small and medium spaces.

Specs 

• Width: 36 inches (soundbar), 8.3 inches (subwoofer)
• Channels: 2.1
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth, HDMI IN

Pros

• 2.1-channel system is Dolby Atmos and DTS:X ready
• HDMI input with 4K passthrough at 60 frames per second
• Compact design with wireless subwoofer

Cons

• Not expandable via satellite speakers
• No Wi-Fi, Chromecast, or AirPlay support
• More suitable for small and medium spaces

If you’re looking for the best Vizio soundbar for living room dance parties, the Vizio M215a-J6 is an affordable and powerful 2.1-channel option that saves space while delivering loud volume and enhanced low-end to your entertainment center. It’s compatible with cutting-edge audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and it offers Bluetooth connectivity for wirelessly streaming audio from your devices. Its wireless subwoofer measures only 8.3 inches in width, which allows for strategic placement within your space, and though the M215a-J6’s connectivity is limited, it does include optical audio and HDMI eARC ports, as well as a single HDMI input with 4K passthrough.

As a strictly 2.1-channel system, the M215a-J6 relies upon DTS Virtual:X tech to simulate the acoustics of a true surround sound cinema system. Because of this, and the fact that it can’t be expanded with satellite speakers, this soundbar should be looked at as a noticeable upgrade over simple stereo or Bluetooth party speakers. Unfortunately, the M215a-J6 isn’t compatible with Chromecast or AirPlay and, like the Vizio Elevate, the M215a-J6 opts for including a smart speaker input in lieu of built-in virtual assistant support. If you’re looking for Wi-Fi or Chromecast support, you’ll have to spring for the bulkier Elevate system. But if you want more bounce to the ounce without spending buckets of ducats, the M215a-J6 is a best buy.

Best for TV: Vizio M21d-H8R

VIZIO

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This sleek all-in-one soundbar features dual subwoofers and a short 2.2-inch body, making it a good choice for use in smaller spaces.

Specs

• Width: 36 inches
• Channels: 2.1
• Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Optical, HDMI In

Pros

• Sleek and compact design fits below TVs
• DTS Virtual:X surround simulation enhances stereo content
• Built-in dual subwoofers

Cons

• No Dolby Atmos support
• Can’t be upgraded with a subwoofer or satellite speakers
• Introduces slight audio latency over ARC and optical

If you’re short on space or would just prefer a single-piece unit to one with a wireless subwoofer or other external speakers, the M21d-H8R is the best all-in-one Vizio soundbars. It measures 36 inches wide and only 2.2 inches high, which allows it to fit easily beneath most flatscreens, making it a solid intermediate step between stock TV speakers and a fully fleshed-out audio setup. While it doesn’t produce quite the same level of rumble you can find from a dedicated subwoofer unit, the M21d-H8R features 6 drivers including two built-in woofers that work admirably to push out low-end and low-mid frequencies (delivering a 50Hz – 20KHz frequency range in full). This 2-way 2.1-channel system also lacks Dolby Atmos support and instead mixes down all surround content to stereo, but it aims to compensate by using DTS Virtual:X tech to simulate surround sound.

The M21d-H8R offers no AirPlay, Chromecast, or Wi-Fi support, but users can connect to it via Bluetooth. It’s still a great stripped-down unit with some modern features; for example, it has a single HDMI input that offers 4K passthrough at 60 frames per second. Like the other soundbars in the Vizio product line, the M21d-H8R also has a dedicated smart speaker input that offers compatibility with virtual assistants. In some cases, the soundbar’s ARC and optical ports have been known to introduce slight playback latency, so the soundbar is best paired with devices that offer some amount of latency compensation if that’s important to you.

Best budget: Vizio V20-J8

VIZIO

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This stripped-down Vizio soundbar offers good bang-for-your-buck thanks to features like Bluetooth, EQ presets, virtual surround sound, and HDMI ARC connectivity.

Specs 

• Width: 24 inches
• Channels: 2.0
• Connectivity: HDMI ARC, Optical

Pros

• Uses DTS Virtual:X surround sound simulation
• Virtual assistant support via smart speaker input
• Compact 24-inch width

Cons

• Barebones design with no HDMI input
• Small size lacks volume and stereo width for larger spaces
• Bass response is somewhat lacking

The V20-J8 is one of the best budget Vizio soundbars because it packs the bare necessities into a compact 24-inch-wide format, making it a good choice for adding increased volume and legibility to your programming in small spaces. It uses a single HDMI ARC port and an Optical port for making connections to your TV, but it also includes Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio from your smartphone or other devices. The V20-J8 is limited to two full-range speakers/channels (delivering ​​a 70Hz – 20kHz frequency response) and doesn’t offer any surround sound capability, but it employs DTS Virtual:X tech to enhance stereo content and simulate the effects of surround sound within its limited stereo design. Like Vizio’s more expensive soundbars, the V20-J8 offers a smart speaker input for compatibility with virtual assistants.

Being a budget soundbar, the V20-J8 does lack features like an HDMI input, which would allow users to run their devices through the soundbar en route to the TV. It also offers no expandability with extra speakers like subwoofers or satellite speakers, so what you see is what you get. It doesn’t offer the best bass response due to its small size and lack of built-in subwoofers, so if you want to make a small upgrade to your sub-bass without adding an entire separate subwoofer, you might want to spring for the Vizio M21d-H8R above. Additionally, it’s not wide enough to throw out significant stereo effects, so it should really be seen more as an affordable enhancement on your TV’s built-in speakers than an immersion-altering audio system.

Things to consider before buying one of the best Vizio soundbars

Do you use Chromecast?

Many of Vizio’s soundbars aren’t Wi-Fi enabled and won’t work with Chromecast as a result of this. If you use Chromecast to stream content from your devices, you’ll need to go right to the top of Vizio’s product line and consider the Vizio Elevate. If Chromecast and Wi-Fi compatibility aren’t important to you, any of Vizio’s other soundbars are worth a look.

How big is your space?

No two home theater environments are the same, and you’ll want to consider the size of your TV and your room before choosing a Vizio soundbar. If you have space for a full surround sound system with a subwoofer and satellite speakers, the 48-inch-wide Vizio Elevate and the 40-inch-wide Vizio M512a-H6 are the best Vizio soundbars with surround sound currently available. If you don’t have space for all that but still want the bass response of a subwoofer, the Vizio M215a-J6 is a nice compromise. For all other spaces, the all-in-one design of the Vizio M21d-H8R is a sleek and compact soundbar option.

Do you need Dolby Atmos support?

Dolby Atmos is a cutting-edge directional audio format that aims to provide greater height and immersion to cinema soundscapes, and while many of the best new soundbars are compatible with Atmos, some are not. If you’re looking for the best Vizio soundbar with Dolby Atmos, the Vizio Elevate will provide a top-of-the-line experience and the Vizio M512a-H6 is a good runner-up. If you don’t have the space for a full surround sound setup, the Vizio M215a-J6 is a Dolby Atmos-compatible soundbar-and-subwoofer package that offers a good approximation of surround sound without extra speakers.

Are you looking for a system that can grow with you?

While Vizio is very good about offering many tiers of soundbars, their systems aren’t upgradeable or available piecemeal. This means that if you buy an all-in-one Vizio soundbar like the Vizio M21d-H8R, you won’t be able to add a subwoofer or rear speakers after the fact. For this reason, Vizio’s soundbars aren’t quite as flexible as some of their wireless surround sound competitors, such as Bluesound or Sonos.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Vizio soundbars

The best Vizio soundbar overall is the Vizio Elevate, which delivers top-of-the-line Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback and Chromecast compatibility. If you don’t need Chromecast and you’re looking to save a bit of money and space, the Vizio M512a-H6 is one of the best Vizio soundbars with surround sound in the mid-tier range. The best Vizio soundbar with a subwoofer is the Vizio M215a-J6, which supports Dolby Atmos and offers 4K passthrough, while the best all-in-one Vizio soundbar is the Vizio M21d-H8R thanks to its well-rounded sound and integrated subwoofers. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Vizio soundbars of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

A few years ago, I bought an Amazon Fire TV stick on Prime Day because it was really cheap. I chucked it in my travel bag, and I have used it countless times since then to stream my favorite content on random hotel TVs, at friends’ houses, and even one time at the office, just because I could. It saves me the trouble (and security risk) that comes with logging into public devices. Right now, you can also save money alongside your personal identifiable information because Amazon has all of its Fire TV Stick streaming devices for nearly 40% off, so there has never been a better time to get a streaming stick specifically for use on the road.

Fire TV Stick, $19 (Was $29)

Amazon

SEE IT

This is the most basic Fire TV Stick Amazon offers, but that’s perfect if you plan to chuck it in your bag and forget about it. This package includes a tiny Amazon Fire TV Stick with 8GB built-in storage and a basic remote for navigating the menus. I typically just use the app to navigate, however, so I don’t have to bother with the remote.

This Fire TV Stick’s Bluetooth connection also allows you to connect Bluetooth noise-canceling earbuds in case you’re traveling with someone else from work and you want to block out their incessant snoring with episodes of Super Store you’ve already seen a million times.

Fire TV Stick 4K Max, $34 (Was $54)

Amazon

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If you don’t mind shelling out a few extra bucks, you can get the Fire TV Stick Max, which can output 4K content, navigates menus up to 40 percent faster, and comes with a more robust remote. It also has WiFi 6 compatibility, so if you have access to a faster network, you’ll actually be able to take advantage of it.

More Amazon Fire TV Stick deals

• Fire TV Cube $124 (Was $139)
• Fire TV Stick $24 (Was $39)
• Fire TV Stick 4K $31 (Was $49)

The post This $20 Amazon Fire TV Stick deserves a spot in your summer travel kit appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Samsung S95C		SEE IT	Samsung’s latest OLED offering makes a strong statement.
Best for gaming		LG C2 OLED		SEE IT	Excellent connectivity and a bright picture make this a gaming superstar.
Best budget		LG B2 OLED		SEE IT	A balanced suite of features goes nicely with excellent image quality.

Step in front of the giant wall of TVs at your local big box store, and the OLED TVs will likely stand out. Their popping color and abundant contrast give these high-end panels an edge over much of their competition. And while technologies like Mini LED and Micro LED may eventually challenge OLED’s image quality crown, it hasn’t happened yet. At the same time, you know that the showroom has all the settings pushed to their peak to overwhelm you with vivid images. So, to help you separate the best from the rest, we’ve collected this list of top-tier OLED TVs across various brands and price points. While you shouldn’t expect to find a truly budget OLED TV, we have reached a point where there are strong options at relatively affordable (for high-end) prices. Sony debuted the first OLED TV back in 2007. It had an 11-inch screen with a 960 x 540 resolution for a tidy sum of $2,500. Spend that much now, and you can get a massive OLED display with some of the best picture quality and color reproduction around. The following are our selections for the best OLED TVs currently available.

• Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best for gaming: LG C2
• Best for PS5: Sony BRAVIA XR A80K Series 4K
• Best 8K: LG Z2 OLED evo
• Best budget: LG B2
• Still worth buying: LG C1

How we chose the best OLED TVs

I have been writing about consumer electronics and home theater technology for nearly two decades, including a stint as the digital editor for the venerable A/V publication Sound & Vision. This list results from a combination of research and real-world impressions, plus data sourced from user and editorial reviews across the web.

We focused on emphasizing a solid mix of performance and price to choose our picks. All but one of the entries here include HDMI 2.1 ports, which we think will be important for some users now (particularly gamers) and others down the road. Obviously, LG is well-represented on the list as it’s the only company that physically manufactures OLED panels, which gives it an inherent edge that we can’t deny.

The best OLED TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

Because OLEDs sit near the top of the TV heap, pretty much any model you choose will perform at least reasonably well. The differences, then, lie in the details. We’ve dug into those specs to find the displays that best fit your needs.

Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED

Stan Horaczek

SEE IT

Specs 

• Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz (Up to 144Hz in some modes)
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, RF, Optical out
• HDR: HDR 10+

Pros

• Ports live on a box connected by a wire for versatile installation
• Extremely bright for an OLED
• Exceptional picture quality
• Robust smart TV offerings
• Solid sound
• Pantone-certified color reproduction

Cons

• Pricey
• Bloated menu system

Samsung’s flagship OLED TV has, at least for the moment, knocked LG off the OLED throne. The S95C TV relies on Samsung’s latest generation of OLED panels, which integrate Quantum Dots into the equation to add extra brightness. OLED displays typically excel in contrast ratio, but that’s because they can achieve such deep black levels. That can kneecap their overall brightness. However, I spent time with Samsung’s S95C in a brightly lit room and found myself very impressed with its performance. 

As a flagship-level display, this TV offers almost all the bells and whistles you want. All its ports live on an external box connected by a single wire to the display. That makes it very easy to install the super-flat panel wherever you want while keeping all the ports accessible. The S95C comes toting four HDMI 2.1 ports, which is essential if you plan on doing high-framerate or high-res gaming on a current-generation console. 

During the review period, I played the PS5-exclusive Returnal and found the visuals extremely crisp and the refresh rate very smooth. This panel natively runs at 120Hz but can bump up to an even-smoother 144Hz in some situations. 

I also watched portions of a few movies, including the latest Venom movie, which taxes a TV by showing lots of fine details moving quickly across the screen with lots of contrast. The S95C managed to keep everything we like about OLEDs while adding the extra brightness that makes it viable in any space, even those with lots of ambient light. 

We haven’t had a chance to test the LG C3 yet, which will likely find itself in close competition with the S95C, but we’ll update this article once review units of the LG become available.

Best for gaming: LG C2

LG

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Specs 

• Sizes: 42”, 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, and 83”
• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, Ethernet, RF, Headphones
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

• Lots of sizes to choose from
• All HDMI ports are 2.1 for max compatibility
• Brighter than previous models
• Dynamic tone mapping for localized image improvements
• G Sync and Freesynch compatibility for variable refresh rates

Cons

• Middling smart TV features

The LG C1 was a blockbuster of a TV that took top honors in just about every TV buying guide back in 2021. The only real downside was its relative lack of brightness (typical of OLEDs). By adding Quantum Dot tech to an OLED panel, LG gave the C2 considerably more brightness than its already excellent predecessor. 

The C2 is technically a 2022 model, but the C3 is only just starting to roll out. While the C2 isn’t the newest, it does offer the vast majority of what you’ll find in the C3 for a fraction of the price. With the C2, you get four side-mounted HDMI 2.1 ports, all of which can handle 4K action at 120 fps. 

As for gaming chops, this TV offers native support for the GeForce Now game streaming platform, so you can game even if you don’t have access to a PC or console. The C2 also supports several popular flavors of variable refresh rate technology, which prevents problems like screen tearing and game-ruining lag from spoiling your time behind the controller. 

Even if you’re not a huge gamer, the C2 is still a phenomenal all-around option, especially considering the lower price now that a new model has come around with updates. 

Best for PS5: Sony BRAVIA XR A80K Series 4K

Sony

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Specs 

• Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: 4 HDMI (2 of which are HDMI 2.1), 2 USB-A ports, RF, Ethernet
• HDR: HDR10 Dolby Vision

Pros

• PlayStation 5 users get specific benefits due to Sony Synergy
• Excellent picture
• Price has come down since release
• Among the best upscaling you’ll find
• Ample contrast

Cons

• Not as bright as some newer flagships
• No headphone jack

It may come as no surprise that Sony wants to add a little extra incentive for people to buy both its latest TVs and its gaming console. For the most part, this is a typical high-end OLED display. It offers the deep blacks and excellent contrast ratios you expect from an OLED. You also get some of the best ai-powered image upscaling you’ll find in a TV thanks to Sony’s XR processor, which analyzes the on-screen image and tweaks it for maximum performance. So, if you’re not always watching native 4K content (and most of us aren’t), it will still look good. 

Plug a PlayStation 5 into one of the two HDMI 2.1 ports (out of a total of four) and this setup is capable of 4K gaming at 120 fps, even if consoles haven’t quite caught up to those lofty specs just yet. The TV does, however, get special tone-mapping abilities for more robust HDR performance exclusively with the PS5. Plus, those two HDMI 2.1 ports support Variable Refresh Rate tech with the PS5 to avoid screen tearing and other unwanted effects. In many ways, this TV was designed to work ideally with the PS5, so if you consume most of your content through that console, this is a great choice.

Best 8K: LG Z2 OLED evo

LG

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Specs 

• Sizes: 77” and 88”
• Resolution: 8K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, RF, Ethernet
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

• The only 8K OLED around
• Enormous sizes match the flashy design
• Excellent picture quality
• Robust smart features

Cons

• Could be brighter
• Very expensive

LG’s flagship Z2 TV pushes its maximum resolution all the way up to 8K. That means you get roughly 32 megapixels of image information every time the screen refreshes. That’s a serious amount of pixels. Of course, there really isn’t much native 8K content out there at the moment. LG remedies that issue by equipping its TV with its most powerful a9 image processing hardware. It relies on AI to upscale the on-screen image to fit the massive 8K screen. If you’re still regularly watching DVDs, this probably isn’t the TV for you. But if you’re watching native 4K and even streaming content, it should look very solid. 

In addition to all those pixels, this TV also has a classier design than most of its competition. At 77” and 88”, there’s no small option to sneak into a guest bedroom. This is a centerpiece TV made to occupy the main spot in the living room. It comes mounted on its own stand, allowing it to reside wherever you have the space. Whatever you do, however, please don’t put it too high above the fireplace. It deserves better than that. 

Is this TV practical? No, 8K is still in its infancy, and you’re definitely paying a premium for the fancy design. But why not get something fancy if you’re not worried about a measly $13,000 (or $25,000 for the 88″)? 

Best budget: LG B2

LG

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Specs 

• Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120 Hz
• Ports: 4 HDMI ports (two of which are HDMI 2.1), 2 USB-A ports, Ethernet, RF, Headphones, Optical audio
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

• Lots of features considering the price
• OLED image quality makes for great contrast
• Filmmaker Mode for easy tuning
• Available up to 77 inches
• Variable Refresh Rate

Cons

• Only two HDMI 2.1 ports
• Not as bright as some high-end models

The LG B2 offers a lot of performance for its price. While this is technically a 2022 model, and the B3 is already on the market, the B2 offers all the features most users will ever need. It has a pair of the latest HDMI 2.1 ports (two of the four total HDMIs), both supporting 4K at 120 fps. So, if the current-generation gaming consoles ever live up to their full potential, this TV can handle it. 

Like every OLED, the B2 offers sky-high contrast ratios with deep blacks and excellent color reproduction. As this isn’t a flagship model, it doesn’t offer the same kind of brightness you’d expect from displays that also integrated Quantum Dots. That’s really only an issue if you’re trying to put this TV in a room with a ton of ambient light. This will look fantastic if you have a space to pull the shades and turn off the overheads. 

Because this is a somewhat down-market option and has been out for more than a year, you can often find deep discounts on all three sizes. If you don’t absolutely need the very best and the brightest, then you can get this display and leave lots of cash to pay for that ever-growing list of streaming services.

Still worth buying: LG C1

LG

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Specs 

• Sizes: 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, 88”
• Resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, RF, 2 USB 2.0, ethernet, optical audio, headphone out
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

• Impeccable picture
• Solid mix of features and price
• Lots of size options
• Excellent upscaling

Cons

• Just OK brightness

This was our best overall pick for some time, and it’s still absolutely worth checking out if you don’t need the most advanced features or the brightest display. You can often find it at a very solid discount.

Across all of your content consumption, the C1 provides an excellent contrast ratio thanks to its super-deep black levels. For movie watching, LG offers filmmaker mode, which turns off motion smoothing and tones down the vibrance and brightness to make the picture look more like what you’d expect at the theater. 

The C1 supports all the most popular flavors of HDR, as well as the two dominant Variable Refresh Rate technologies, G-Sync and FreeSync, which gamers will appreciate. In fact, the C1 has a lot to offer gamers. All four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1, giving you enough to hook up a PS5 and Xbox Series X for 4K/120fps gameplay. Plus, it boasts a 1ms response time in gaming mode, which cuts down potentially game-ruining lag. 

It’s not the brightest TV around, but that’s also one of the few drawbacks of OLED TVs across the board. Aside from that quibble, the C1 has just about anything anyone could ask for, and it won’t require ill-gotten crypto funds to afford it.

What is OLED, and how does it work?

Want to dig deeper into how these displays actually work and what makes them different from the rest of the TVs on the wall at the store?

Well, in an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, each pixel is an LED that emits its own light. When content requires dark or black areas on the screen, the display can simply turn those pixels off to create a “true” black that most other backlight technologies can’t match. The difference often becomes especially apparent in areas where bright objects butt up against darkness, which can cause light to spill where it shouldn’t go.

Typical LED backlit TVs rely on an array of LEDs sitting behind an LCD panel that controls how much light to let through. This is the same basic idea that has powered almost every flat-screen TV since the technology’s inception, and it comes with a few drawbacks. The primary issue arises when the LCD panel can’t block all of the light coming from behind it: The excess light distorts black and even darker colors, making them look gray or washed out. Depending on the arrangement of the LEDs in the backlight, it can also result in a picture with unnatural banding or patchiness, especially around the edges. If you’ve ever noticed light leaking from the top, bottom, or sides of your TV screen during a dark scene, OLED fixes that problem. 

While OLEDs are fantastic, they aren’t perfect. They’re still often pricier than their QLED competition at the same size. They also aren’t as bright and instead rely on their super-dark black levels to create a punchy, vibrant image. If you’re planning to watch TV in a super sunny room all day, then OLED probably isn’t your best bet. Otherwise, it’s hard to beat. 

What to know even more about backlighting tech? Check out our QLED vs. OLED vs. Mini-LED primer.

Things to consider when buying an OLED TV

Size

Dig into the OLED offerings, and you’ll find that most manufacturers hover around the 55- to 65-inch sweet spots for their most popular models, with an increasing amount of options in the 70s. If you’re in the market for a small TV, OLED probably isn’t the right choice for you. As with all big-screen TV, expect a noticeable price jump when you go above 65 inches. Manufacturers commonly offer 77-inch and even 88-inch displays, but they command a huge premium for all that real estate. 

Connectivity

Since you’re spending considerable cash on a new TV, you want it to last a while, which makes paying attention to the ports important for futureproofing. This is especially true if you plan to use your new panel with a fancy next-gen gaming console. 

Ideally, you’ll want a set with multiple HDMI 2.1 ports to prepare you for anything you may one day hook up. HDMI 2.1 represents the most recent iteration of the familiar connector. The extra bandwidth HDMI 2.1 provides allows compatible cables and devices to display high resolutions and fast frame rates, both of which will be increasingly important as streaming and gaming tech advance in the next few years. Right now, it’s only really relevant if you’re using a PS5 or Xbox Series X, but more devices will be able to take advantage down the road.

You’ll often find that TVs have a mixture of HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.0 ports, so just ensure you have enough high-performance connectivity to connect the devices you plan to use. 

Frame rate

High TV frame rates earned themselves a bad reputation early on when “motion smoothing” technology made our favorite movies look like cheesy soap operas. Many TVs still offer 60Hz refresh rates, which means the TV redraws the on-screen image 60 times each second. Higher-end TVs, however, support 120Hz refresh rates, which doubles the redraw frequency and creates smoother on-screen motion. While it won’t drastically improve movies and TV shows, it can make sports and video games look noticeably better. 

Some TV manufacturers have also started to support Variable Refresh Rate technologies like Nvidia’s G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. These gaming-focused features can reduce stuttering and other weirdness that can ruin your experience. Check out our round-up of the best TVs for gaming for a more in-depth take on these features.

Resolution

If you’re buying a current-generation OLED TV, it will almost certainly offer 4K resolution. This has been the standard for several years, and it’s where you want to be. Technically, 8K is an option, but it’s wildly impractical for most people. Right now, there’s a nearly complete dearth of 8K content to watch on those fancy TVs. Even newer game consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5, which technically support 8K gaming, lack any native 8K games or content. Upgrade to 8K if you want the bragging rights. Otherwise, 4K is plenty for now. 

Smart TV features

While a TV’s software won’t impact your viewing experience as much as its technical specifications, it may affect your interaction with your new OLED display if you don’t use an external streaming device or game console. Most TV manufacturers have a single platform on which all their TVs run. Since we’re talking about OLEDs, you’re very likely to end up using LG’s own WebOS platform since that brand shows up more than others. Sony often relies on Google TV software. While these services aren’t all created equal, none is so much better or worse than the others that they should affect your purchasing decision.

HDR

High-Dynamic Range is basically the whole sales pitch for OLED TVs. By making the dark areas and blacks basically devoid of illumination, it makes the brights seem even more brilliant. There are two HDR standards: the near-universal HDR10 and the less common Dolby Vision. Some critics suggest that Dolby Vision works better, but fewer places support the standard. Luckily there are very few TVs, if any, that support Dolby Vision but not HDR10. Realistically, the important thing to know is that any OLED worth buying says “HDR” on the box.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best OLED TVs

• Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best for gaming: LG C2
• Best for PS5: Sony BRAVIA XR A80K Series 4K
• Best 8K: LG Z2 OLED evo
• Best budget: LG B2
• Still worth buying: LG C1

If you’re in the market for the best possible picture quality in a TV, OLED is still the champ for the moment. With prices on the best OLED TVs coming down in recent years, this is actually a great time to take the leap into the OLED arena while competing technologies like Mini LED and Micro LED are still relatively early in their cycles. 

While you’re generally safe picking pretty much any LG OLED, make sure that you get the features that you need to support the style of content consumption you typically do. After all, that fancy new console isn’t all that fancy if you don’t have an HDMI 2.1 port to plug it into. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best OLED TVs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Polk Reserve R500		SEE IT	This versatile floorstander incorporates flagship Polk technologies at an accessible price.
Best stereo smart speaker		Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin		SEE IT	Form meets function in this sleek airship piloted by Alexa.
Best for home theater		Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+		SEE IT	With support for both immersive audio and high-res streaming, this soundbar elevates music listening as well as movies.

Choosing stereo speakers used to be pretty straightforward: If speakers sounded good, matched your amp, and fit your space, they were winners. These days, that decision is a little more complicated, considering granular music preferences, streaming functionality, and whole-home connectivity. With a wide range of speaker choices available at every price point, it’s easy to be lured by long feature lists and luxurious stylings. But while all that functionality is important, remember that fidelity comes first: All of the conveniences in the world don’t matter if your speakers can’t produce thrilling, room-filling sound that brings all of the nuances of your favorite songs and movies to life, precisely as they were meant to be heard. Traditional towers to smart speakers—we’ve done the heavy lifting to jump-start your quest for the best stereo speakers that prove great sound doesn’t have to take up all your space or budget.

• Best overall: Polk Reserve R500
• Best smart speaker: B&W Zeppelin
• Best for home theater: Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+
• Best wireless: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best budget bookshelf: Elac Debut 2.0 B5.2
• Best budget floorstanding: Fluance Ai81 Elite Powered 2-Way Floorstanding Tower Speakers

How we chose the best stereo speakers

To select the best stereo speakers from hundreds of choices, we narrowed our focus to specific applications, focusing on listening to music in indoor spaces, with the caveat that many listeners enjoy music and movies on the same media system. We concentrated on speakers that best balance proven sonic performance, versatile connectivity features, and universal appeal. Our team of musicians, producers, and gear junkies compared, well, notes, along with input from peers, experts, and actual users. We investigated time-honored classics and the newest developments in each category, putting new speakers through hands-on listening tests whenever possible. by rounding up our favorite models in various categories, from traditional towers to smart speakers, focusing on models that overperform but can be considered a bargain.

The best stereo speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

The best brand of speakers is a subjective choice. That said, the companies profiled here are well-known for their groundbreaking speaker technologies and have invested decades in acoustics engineering and materials R&D. Some of the most widely known brands—including Bowers & Wilkins, Bose, Klipsch, KEF, and Polk—have been making top-of-the-line speakers for audiophiles for more than 50 years; others—like JBL, Dynaudio, Focal, and Quested—are market leaders in pro industries and have ported their studio-monitor and touring sound system innovations over into their consumer speakers. These companies are committed to developing great-sounding, reliable speakers that elevate the listening experience. When shopping, it’s fine to care about recognizable names, and a good idea to compare reviews, but sound is so subjective that the best approach is to set your budget, decide which features are the best fit for your space and lifestyle, and audition models in person whenever you can.

Best overall: Polk Reserve R500

Polk Reserve

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Why it made the cut: This value-priced speaker is packed with flagship acoustic technologies, exemplifying Polk’s goal to offer “great sound for all.”

Specs 

• Drivers: 3 (one 1”, two 5 ¼”)
• Dimensions: 10 1/8″ x 41 1/8″ x 13 3/4″
• Frequency response: 32 Hz – 50 kHz
• Connectivity: 5-way binding posts

Pros

• Pinnacle Ring Radiator smoothes high-end dispersion
• Advanced cabinet bracing minimizes resonances
• Refined cabinet finishes elevate home decor

 Cons

• Larger Reserve towers offer more sophisticated port technologies

Cabinets are finished in black, white, or walnut woodgrain, and have strategically angled bracing for smooth, peak-free response with open, uncolored bass and midrange. The R500 is High-Res Audio certified, as well as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX, and Auro 3D certified.

Polk’s Reserve Series, introduced in 2021, offers the ideal combination of fidelity and value, bringing acoustic technologies from the company’s flagship Legend Series to versatile, affordable sound systems for music, movies, and gaming. Nine models are available: three floorstanding speakers, three center channels, two bookshelf speakers, and a height module for spatial audio content. The R500 compact floorstanding speaker, at $599 each, is an affordable entry into the Reserve tower lineup. While it won’t reach the sonic summit, it also won’t cost the tens of thousands of dollars that achievement costs; what sets this speaker apart is the amount of people it can satisfy overall. 

The R500 borrows a lot of innovations from Legend speakers: If you’ve ever seen high-end Polk speakers, you’ve probably noticed the distinctive, Hershey’s Kiss-esque waveguides protruding from their tweeters. That’s Polk’s Pinnacle Ring Radiator, which disperses high frequencies evenly around the room for a wider sweet spot while squashing resonances for crisper, more detailed highs, and it’s a key feature of the R500.

Dual 5 ¼-inch Turbine Cone midrange woofers features molded ridges that increase stiffness without adding mass, for a clearer, more detailed sound, and the R500’s bass-reflex enclosure with patented Power Port and X-Port technologies is optimized to cut down on air turbulence, minimizing chuffing and other noises that can mask the clarity of midrange sounds. The overall frequency response is 32 Hz – 50 kHz. (Need more dynamic range but not ready to add a subwoofer? Step up to the 6.5-inch woofers of the R600 and or the 8-inch woofers of the R700.)

Best smart speaker: B&W Zeppelin

Sarah Jones

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Why it made the cut: This audiophile-grade smart speaker borrows drivers from B&W’s top-of-the-line systems. If sound and style are your biggest priorities, Zeppelin is the one to beat.

Specs 

• Drivers: 5 (two 1”, two 3.5”, one 6”)
• Dimensions: 28 x 12 x 11.6 inches
• Frequency response: 35 Hz – 24 kHz
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB (service only)