Avoid These 5 TV Shopping Mistakes This Black Friday

As Black Friday approaches, consumers eager to score deals on televisions must navigate a complex landscape of sales and marketing jargon. With promotions stretching across a week and numerous online platforms, shopping for a new TV can be overwhelming. To help buyers make informed choices, a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience in the television industry shares the five most common mistakes to avoid this holiday shopping season.

1. Choosing the Wrong TV Size

A frequent query among shoppers is, “What size TV should I buy?” The answer depends on the viewing distance from the screen. For a 55-inch TV, the optimal viewing distance is between 4 and 6 feet, while a 65-inch model requires a distance of 6 to 8 feet. If you typically sit between 8 and 10 feet away, it might be wise to skip the 55-inch models altogether. Focusing on size during Black Friday sales is essential to avoid a disappointing viewing experience.

2. Avoiding 60- and 70-inch TVs

Experts recommend steering clear of 60- and 70-inch TVs during Black Friday. Research indicates that most high-quality TVs from reputable brands like Hisense, LG, Samsung, and Sony do not come in these sizes. Instead, desirable models are typically available in sizes such as 42, 48, 55, 65, 75, and 85 inches. Deals on larger TVs often involve lower-end models that lack essential features. For example, consumers may find better value in the budget-friendly TCL QM6K, which offers impressive 4K resolution and Mini-LED backlighting.

3. Settling for Edge-Lit TVs

Shoppers should also be cautious about purchasing edge-lit TVs, which illuminate from the screen’s perimeter rather than from behind. This design can lead to inferior picture quality, as the light travels further to reach the viewer. In contrast, modern backlit TVs with local dimming capabilities provide superior brightness and contrast. The price gap between edge-lit and quality backlit options has narrowed, particularly during Black Friday sales, making it an opportune time to invest in a better-performing television.

4. Selecting the Wrong Type of TV

Understanding the type of TV suitable for your environment is crucial. For brightly lit rooms, a bright LED TV is more effective than an entry-level OLED, which may not provide adequate brightness. The LG C5, a mid-range OLED, offers strong HDR performance while being more affordable than high-end OLED models. Currently, the 48-inch version is available for under $1,000, making it a compelling choice for those seeking quality at a reasonable price.

5. Waiting Until After Black Friday

Finally, consumers often miss out on significant discounts by delaying their purchases until after Black Friday. Historically, the days following this shopping event see fewer deals, and prices can rebound sharply. Notably, prices for sought-after models can rise by over $500 once the sales events conclude. To avoid disappointment, prospective buyers should act quickly when they identify a desirable TV.

By avoiding these common pitfalls and staying informed, shoppers can enhance their chances of finding the perfect television for their home this Black Friday. Following expert advice can lead to a rewarding shopping experience, ensuring that you make a purchase that meets both your budget and entertainment needs.