Why Pick A Non-Smart TV Vs A Smart TV?

[@clovisdacruz6078]

Even TV speakers are pointless. I wish they made TVs without smart Apps, inbuilt speakers and onboard DACs but with focus on the picture quality aimed towards the audiophile (and videophile market) market. The quality video output of built in apps using built in hardware is far inferior to let’s say an Apple TV or even an Amazon fire stick.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I totally agree. Years ago some companies made such TVs, the excellent Pioneer Elite plasmas come to mind. You had the option of a traditional TV with (bad) built-in speakers, or PRO models with nothing other than the panel and video processing.

[@dongoggine]

The TV tuners are also useless.

[@leo2395]

@dongoggine At that point it just becomes a big PC monitor

[@thuandao4243]

I’ve asked several channels if using chromecast to yt, Netflix…can override stupid app interface useless navigation but no one reply. My old 14 years old tv graphics is failing fast , double images, so which budget tv under 500 do you suggest ¿

[@_ford_crown_victoria_p]

buy a commercial tv lol that’s literally what you want

[@ayokay123]

FINALLY, Andrew gives voice to what I've felt for a looong time! Gimme the best monitor for the price and put all the "smart" stuff in a secondary box. Unfortunately, there are no high end "dumb" tvs.

[@anthonydatri7301]

This. Bought a nonstandard webcam for Skype on my TV, because that's what it required. Then MSFT broke TV Skype. etc. I do almost everything from a Fire TV stick anyway.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Exactly, hopefully TV manufacturers will learn there’s a market for non-smart TVs.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I hate when software/apps just stop working!

[@linnie7851]

insignia is a very good dumb brand, they have smart too. I haven't bought a smart one.

[@status101-danielho6]

My understanding is that smart TV manufacturers get a constant revenue stream by selling the consumer's data (via your login profiles, viewing habits, geolocation, etc.) to advertisers. That's why they can sell them for so cheap, because the money is made on the back end.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

That’s a very good point, and likely true. A non-smart set would not be able to collect such personal data.

[@FocusedFighter777]

@Status 101 That is exactly what they do. And now with bluetooth TVs neighboors are a constant pain. I want my tv offline but have to keep it on the web for an app to stops them form trying to connect to my F s**t Tv every 3 seconds. You pay less for tvs now because these A Holes manufacturers spy on you and sell your data. "Our customer's safety if a priority" Never was, never will be ! I just want a tv that does what a F tv does! Same for my phone, i dont need 20000 pointless apps on it.....

[@thefrog4990]

Also the TV’s are crap. Not made to last at all and you’ll have to keep getting new ones

[@morris4321]

Definitely agree non smart tv an a lot of cheaper smart tvs seems to have issues my roku tv the picture went out and I could only hear sound but no picture Never had any issues with my old tv before switching to a smart tv My old tv was a Samsung before i got a smart tv had it at least 6 years and it still worked when I sold it at a yard sale then got a roku tv and I had same issue with 2 of them the picture went out and only can here sound I’m sticking with non smart tv i have a roku stick i can use

[@paskellsr]

I understand that non-smart TVs only broadcast in 720P. Could be wrong but if nobody makes them, one shouldn't care.😅

[@Perfectjzman]

I hope non smart tvs make a comeback.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Agreed!

[@kygent508]

Like Records and Record Players.

[@thuandao4243]

Where can I buy budget 500$ non smart tv¿ I just want to chromecast yt android phone or iPad…. I detest useless app navigation interface so will my chromecast override it¿

[@thefrog4990]

Me too unironically

[@Karman7]

Yeah they are nostalgic

[@Zaptosis]

I am still using a Plasma TV from 2011, it was cheap buying used & it looks amazing. My "smart" TV is an old laptop plugged into the side with a Bluetooth keyboard & mouse. I can download content directly to the TV, watch KZbin, play legit any game console from up to 10 years ago with emulators & a Bluetooth xbox controller. A TV plus an old laptop running Linux is the best setup with the most support for any number of things, I'm sure there are tons of real time audio adjustment programs for Linux, tbh I got no clue what an audiophile does with their TV aside from adding good speakers but I bet you got more options on a full desktop operating system than anything any TV will give you.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I agree…I used a HTPC for many years before streaming players got much better and easier to use.

[@kygent508]

My plasma from 2009 just went out now looking everywhere for a non smart tv.

[@timmckenna1757]

Andrew's reasons are good. The poor updating of software in 'embedded systems' like a smart TV or thermostat or toothbrush! is an IT industry problem. With lower end equipment, the 'smart' software is there for marketing, not functionality; they use slow processors with limited memory and non-updatable firmware. - avoid or ignore the smartness of these units. In the middle range, the implementations are better but, as streaming services add more features, the apps exceed the equipment's grasp. - you'll get along for a while with the smart features. The upper range has a longer lifespan because they use a small general purpose computer instead of an embedded device, e.g. Android TV. Yet even my Sony Master series TV occasionally freezes for a second when playing 4K content from streaming services. This is not a network bandwidth or latency problem, the TV's memory buffering is not entirely sufficient. It could be a hardware limitation and/or a software glitch. - you'll get along for a while longer with the smart features. But you can afford the latest Apple TV box when the time comes. If you can afford more, the smart issues move from the TV to the AVR. As others have noted, I'd like a TV that is just a monitor -- that is what an Apple TV box turns your cheap or expensive TV into. Sadly, large format computer monitors are not the answer here; they serve a different use case. (I've been in IT since punch cards. The older I get, the more I'd like my punch cards back.)

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Great perspective and info here from an IT point of view! Thanks for sharing, and I get missing the old punch card days.

[@morris4321]

Definitely agree non smart tv an a lot of cheaper smart tvs seems to have issues my roku tv the picture went out and I could only hear sound but no picture Never had any issues with my old tv before switching to a smart tv My old tv was a Samsung before i got a smart tv had it at least 6 years and it still worked when I sold it at a yard sale then got a roku tv and I had same issue with 2 of them the picture went out and only can here sound I’m sticking with non smart tv i have a roku stick i can use

[@bsand3025]

I'm still using a Pioneer Kuro plasma (doesn't have streaming let alone speakers) with a Firestick. No issues just great picture and running sound through a pre-pro and amp. I like a separate streaming service for all the reasons you've listed. If I replace my TV I'll keep my streaming stick as it works very well.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thanks for sharing your set-up, sounds like it’s running perfectly!

[@bsand3025]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters I should have mentioned my speakers are Axiom M80, VP180 and 4 x QS8's. Thankyou

[@MikeNelsonPedde]

We have a Smart TV; it's in a box in the basement. We still use our old LG 32" TV as it has always worked well for us. This year we added a Roku device for streaming in addition to our Telus account, and it works very well. And we only have one remote - a Logitech My Harmony programmable remote. My wife Marcia (for some strange reason) is not a tech fan, but she can push the button that says Watch TV or Watch Roku or Watch Movie (Blu-Ray) and it turns on whatever devices are needed and sets the proper inputs on the stereo receiver. She needs to power off in order to switch from Telus to Roku for example, but that's a small price to pay.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Great workarounds, when the programmable remotes work, they’re fantastic.

[@FocusedFighter777]

@Mike Nelson Pedde Before you sigh of relief, you should read on Roku...... How do you think chinese spies on foreigners, they know we buy their products. They know what you're watching, when, and for how long. Tvs dont even have passwords or anything, which makes it even worse to make them so full of apps like this etc.

[@nrikhy2793]

Absolutely correct analysis. Smart TV manufacturers knew the cost of led tv prices were coming down drastically so they had to do something to keep their profits. Considering new led technology could potentially last 10-15 years by introducing more and more smart features and hardware ( processors and os, and apps )into their tv's they could demand higher prices and decrease longevity, a kind of planned obsolescence. Not everyone wants to have the insides of their tv like a computer. Also completly agree that features of a good tv should primarily be picture and sound quality. Considering the advancements in technology we should see tv lasting us many years and we should get a guarantee of atleat 5 years for a well assembled professional product and not be handed down cheap consumer grade and failure prone electronics.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Exactly, and great points you've brought up. Thank you.

[@josuec7929]

Back in 2015, we got a Samsung brand tv. Fast forward to 2023, in the past couple of years, I’ve seen multiple apps be unsupported, the Smart TV became into a Dumb TV! We invested in an Apple TV which works perfectly. Plus some of the bottom lights are broken. I’m trying all my hardest to now find a new really good TV, a non-smart to be exact!

[@morris4321]

I would Definitely agree non smart tv an a lot of cheaper smart tvs seems to have issues my roku tv the picture went out and I could only hear sound but no picture Never had any issues with my old tv before switching to a smart tv My old tv was a Samsung before i got a smart tv had it at least 6 years and it still worked when I sold it at a yard sale then got a roku tv and I had same issue with 2 of them the picture went out and only can here sound I’m sticking with non smart tv i have a roku stick i can use

[@73Datsun180B]

Buy a large 4k monitor and mini SSD pc and a wireless mouse and keyboard!

[@crimlarksSteve]

I still own and watch a Panasonic Plasma TV that I bought over 10 years ago and will continue watching that until it dies. The picture is great, and I use an Apple TV 4K with it (yes, I know the TV will never display 4K, but the Apple TV 4K gives me all that I want/need and I know Apple isn't tracking what I watch, unlike anything by Google or Amazon or Roku.)

[@1ycj]

I’ve come to the conclusion that the more features a electronic device has built in the more issues arises. That’s why I prefer not to have a smart tv. I’ve learned that from experience. Had a high end lg refrigerator with all the bells and whistles for 3 years when I purchased my home and it kept breaking down meaning it wasn’t freezing or either it wasn’t keeping my foods cold. But on the other hand I purchased a used lg tv not smart tv, and that television is still performing at peak.

[@weston028]

Dude yes!!! My Phillips 65 TV sucks, I have to clear the cache and restart the TV daily!

[@xxxricks]

Andrew, I completely agree with your comments - however, it is now cheaper to get a lower end Smart TV with good display quality than it is to get a "dumb" tv. So that's what I did, but I disabled the wifi and speakers on the tv, and everything else I can on it, and connected it to my home theater system (which uses a Nvidea Shield for streaming) - so it behaves as a "dumb tv", and can't capture or send any of my viewing data.

[@danielgowans4473]

That's the way to do it! Make your Smart TV dumb, and it will last a long time.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Interesting points, will have to keep this in mind when it’s time to buy a new one.

[@FocusedFighter777]

@Rick Schneider That's when people think they are safe, disablong wifi or voice recognition etc. The companies made the tvs, they implemented programs in them. None of these "turning off this and that" really works, i've read good articles on TCL tvs and people should be alarmed....... They have proven they can do whatever they want from where they are, to your tv, without your consent or you knowing. And people think they are "safe"...

[@bradh6185]

I need to buy my first flat screen. I rarely watch TV, but I have finally decided to get with the times anyway. Are there non-smart TVs being made that have premium picture quality?

[@randymiller1604]

This information was exactly what I wanted I need a new television but I don’t need a smart television I will find a dumb television I hope

[@midbass.maestro]

Good video. Best in awhile. I like before I even watch

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed this one.

[@eattherich9215]

I am so glad that I kept my 12 year old flatscreen tv because I have had enough of my smart tv with its poor sound, too many menus and ever shifting channels. I have boxed up the smart tv for resale and I am looking at a stick option. My "dumb" tv is so much better - the sound is great without the need for a sound bar, and the remote control has dedicated buttons for the things I need rather than having to scroll through an endless menu.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Exactly, when you just want to sit down and watch TV, and not endlessly scroll.

[@73Datsun180B]

connect a mini SSD pc up to it!

[@stephenc2738]

Totally agree, the TV manufacturers should just product a "quality product" forget about feature-function-benefit wars and leave streaming and the supporting software to 3RD Parties (ROKU, AppleTV etc.) As I don't subscribe to cable or Fibe TV, the only feature I want in a TV is an ATSC Tuner as I receive OTA Digital TV signals in my local reception area. However, there are some TV's where the Tuner is an outboard unit, nothing new here - Mitsubishi was doing that in the late 80's

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thanks for taking the time to comment, and share your preference for a quality over quantity product.

[@kelalamusic9258]

I'm with you. I have both Roku and Apple TV devices. That's all I need. Both have all the apps I use. All I want is quality picture with the ability to adjust it to my liking, Leave all the smart-a$$ nonsense out of it.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Exactly, well said. 👍

[@chawlamohali]

Using a TV just for it’s screen is simple and trouble free, given the AVR supports all the audio codecs, video formats and frame rates. I wish TVs were just a HDR10 screen with full colour rendering.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I share your wish…just give me the best panel and video processing for a given price and I’ll deal with the rest!

[@anthonydatri7301]

Assuming that one has an AVR, and that it's digital.

[@73Datsun180B]

The setup in my lounge consists of a 10 year old HDTV with a HDMI cable connected to a cheap mini SSD pc running windows 10 and a wireless mouse/keyboard. With this can download anything I please or use any browser I please and I can also use vpn's as well. I can easily add surround sound if I please in the future. Why people buy smart tv's is beyond me!

[@rebeccawoods4488]

Very interesting, thank you!

[@StevenTorrey]

A dumb TV will take most 3rd Party Streaming devises; the Smart TV is just annoying as it constantly disconnects from the internet, so that the streaming experience of the movie is interrupted. And this seems to be a common occurrence with all the Smart TVs regardless of brand.

[@bdpf1744]

I'm like you. I tend to like to get multiple components that are designed to do a very specific task by people that do only that for a living. For example, I am one of the very few people I know that still uses a dedicated camera to take pictures and a dedicated video camera for videos, a watch on my wrist, a dedicated flashlight, etc.... Most of the people I know just use their phones for everything. So yes, I do prefer dedicated devices, however, we do live in an era nowadays where convenience has taken over quality, and that applies to pretty much anything. Put 2 TVs of the same size and same price side by side, both advertising 4K for example. One being a smart TV with all the built in apps imaginable, the other not smart, but instead with a much better audio/video processor and a better LCD panel, resulting in a better picture, I'll guarantee that 99% of the population will go for the smart TV. Manufacturers sell us what the majority of the population demands...

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I think that may be true, which is a very good reason to do a video on the topic and give people the information so that they can make an informed decision. Agreed, dedicated devices are going to perform best.

[@johnhudson3095]

bought a insignia non smart tv in 2014, still works. getting another one tommrow. gave my old one to my ex, and don't want it back. i also have a toshiba fire tv that i will use in the bedroom, but the insignia (non smart tv) will be my primary. the smart tvs only last a year or two and then they start slowing down to a crawl. use a roku and your good to go. after several years and roku dies, just buy another one. easy stuff. :) im going to hold onto this insignia as long as i can. these tvs are getting harder and harder to find.

[@Lucas-px1qh]

Hi Axiom What "dumb" tv would you suggest ?

[@LAW739]

I VERY MUCH LIKE THE IDEA, OF A BASE SCREEN, OF EXCELLENT QUALITY, AND SMALL COMPACT STREAMING DEVICE, UPGRADEABLE OVER THE YEARS, WHERE YOU CAN LOAD WHAT SPECIFICALLY INTERESTS YOU, THEREFORE GETTING RID OF THE EXCESS BAGGAGE OF TECHNICAL INTERFERENCE. SIMPLE, SLICK, EFFICENT

[@marco699]

Hi -thanks for the video. I very much agree with you - I am not interested in using smart TV features like built in streaming apps or even speakers. I personally standardized in Apple TV connected to my AVR, but I understand that others may prefer a different setup or streamers. Here is an important question - which TV allows you to most effectively bypass (or turn off) the smart features and use your TV as dumb TV? This is probably a function of TV and TV OS (WebOS, GoogleTV, etc). My goal is to only turn on (or automatically wake up) my TV and never see any smart TV or TV OS interface. I want to go straight to my streamer - in my case Apple TV. I had partial success using my 2019 LG 65C9 with Apple TV but occasionally the LG's WebOS tries to take over. Anyway, I am very interested to hear your option and anyone else on this channel who has recommendations on using TV as dumb - Cheers!

[@invisibles362]

That's why I'm using a Nvidia shield pro for streaming in my home theater. The Nvidia and Apple 4K are Bild for streaming and be connected to your AV receiver or Home Theater processor. Amazon fire stick, not made for a home theater processor, but good to connect on your TV. Good and true video Andrew.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thank you, and I agree that there are some far better external devices specifically built for streaming than what is included in a smart-TV.

[@teleguy5699]

Preach! Before you said it, I was thinking, just get a Roku. I've had my TV ( a Sony) for about 13 years now with a nice 240 hertz refresh rate and all. The question I have is; who makes quality "dumb" TV's now as I haven't researched them in a while? I hope not to go through the massive headache like when my old router died and I had no clue about the new tech and the million options I had to figure out. Good video Andrew.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Already in the comments have been some great workarounds for this, even if not a great non-smart TV option yet. Delving into new tech is always a challenge, you’re not alone.

[@eattherich9215]

I'm so glad that I hung onto my 12 year old Panasonic flat screen. I am just trying to decide which streaming stick to buy.

[@teleguy5699]

@@eattherich9215 Can't go wrong with Roku.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@eattherich9215 Think you'll be happy with the change from the Smart TV. Look forward to hearing which stick you end up going with.

[@eattherich9215]

@@teleguy5699: I have dismissed Roku as it requires a bank card to sign up - no intention of watching premium content and I already have Amazon and Netflix accounts - and I have seen complaints that it stops supporting some older hardware. My non-smart tv is, in fact, 16 years' old. My choice is now the firestick or chromecast with a NOWtv stick as an outside option - need to do more research on that one.

[@mathewgonz]

Okay but what brands do you suggest because I can’t find anything that isn’t in the 50-65 inch range that isn’t commercial or for outdoor use

[@mallikarjunaraonutalapati135]

Very valuable information,technically supported.can save money and can be upgraded with streaming devices.

[@ryangriffith3729]

Sound advice Andrew that's a window I never thought to look through interesting point if view

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thank you, glad you found it to be a good topic!

[@ryangriffith3729]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters Very definitely some food for thought

[@indigomizumi]

Is it even possible to find a decent quality dumb TV anymore? I don't specifically need a TV for anything right now (I have two reasonably sized monitors already), but I have to wonder. I've never seen the point of smart TVs given that the features would already come with equipment that I would already have.

[@morris4321]

I would definitely agree an a lot of the cheaper tvs have issues like my tv the picture went out and only can hear sound never had any issues with my old tv before switching to smart tv

[@my1serafina]

My 13 or 14 year old dumb Toshiba still works as well as the day I bought it and have a Firestick that turns it in to a smart tv. So after considering a new smart tv, have decided to stick with my old set-up.

[@mgcustodio]

I'm currently looking at what's in the market because we retired our CRT 😅 Although specs don't tell the whole story, it's quite a challenge to find a smart tv that beats the specs of our almost decade old Panasonic(which we smartened up with one of those streaming devices), and it's not even a plasma😢. I'd rather get a "dumb" tv that has focused on it's picture quality and audio than smart ones that seem to have mediocre specs across the board. But they're getting fewer and fewer out there that I'm considering venturing secondhand market.

[@johnmel9456]

Very informative...thank you ...glad I listened to what you said.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for taking the time to say so.

[@PrezidentHughes]

Can you find non-smart TVs? Only Google TVs seem to disengage their apps if you don't allow the Google permissions. If your AVR does CEC well, you shouldn't need to maintain an extra remote control.

[@taddeojudemugagga2306]

I like your idea sir, thank you.

[@melvayaredaguilar]

thanks for the information

[@underbglogos7068]

Mi box is a nice addition to the top streamer boxes.

[@Tj92777]

Some one finally making sense …

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Cheers!

[@MostGratefulOwl]

I use Chromecast for streaming and I don't typically have any issues aside from needing to unplug it for a minute maybe once a month. No extra remotes, just my phone. Only difference I noticed in comparison to a smart tv is the smart tv will turn on when I connect to it through KZbin on my phone. That's more of a convenience lol but I liked it.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Chromecast works well indeed, and most electronics need a reboot from time to time.

[@kewitt1]

I agree I want a non smart TV sadly the margins on TV are sooooooo low they need to make money with ads post sale.

[@bikdav]

The problem that I have with smart TVs is that the apps are nowhere near as good as running the app from a laptop or desktop box. (Yes, I’ve seen a few systems with desktop units connected to the system).

[@73Datsun180B]

I have a mini SSD pc connected to my 10 year old HDTV and it's fucking great!

[@morris4321]

Definitely agree non smart tv an a lot of cheaper smart tvs seems to have issues my roku tv the picture went out and I could only hear sound but no picture Never had any issues with my old tv before switching to a smart tv My old tv was a Samsung before i got a smart tv had it at least 6 years and it still worked when I sold it at a yard sale then got a roku tv and I had same issue with 2 of them the picture went out and only can here sound I’m sticking with non smart tv i have a roku stick i can use

[@hippo-potamus]

So which non smart do you recommend????????!!!!?????

[@jeffa847]

Apparently some Insignia TVs are not smart. I don't know anything else about the brand though.

[@hippo-potamus]

@@jeffa847 Yes, I have some Insignia 40inch, they are standard. Only thing that I dont like about them is everything is done with the remote, tv has no buttons for on/off channel change etc.

[@jeffa847]

@@hippo-potamus I didn't even think of that. What a pain. The remote breaks or you can't find it you're just stuck unplugging it. OMG I can't believe how stupid they are making things. Haha And we still don't have my idea from the 1990s incorporated in = a little button on the TV that will make the remote ring so you can find it. Do other TVs have any control buttons on them?

[@hippo-potamus]

@@jeffa847 I didn't realize that until after it arrived and I set it up. Most are doing away with the buttons which sucks. Other than that I'm very impressed with the quality $120 at bestbuy can't beat it. I'm still looking for a big tv for my living room 65inch.

[@erictarbox]

I bought a smart TV a few years ago and it was barely out of warranty before the “smart” functionality failed and the TV became completely unusable and had to be replaced. I consciously avoid the whole category when searching for televisions.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

You're not the first to make that comment here, it happens way too often to people. Exactly why I stay away from them.

[@chrisrolfe6917]

Software compatibility was what made me choose a Sony smart TV that runs Android TV. Android TV is a widely used platform and the apps are developed by the streaming companies themselves, so they tend not to break very often. I had an issue with some apps sending audio to my AVR over the ARC though, so after owning the TV for two years I ended up buying a Nvidia Shield TV Pro (also running Android TV). It plugs into one of the inputs on my AVR so I'm not limited by the bandwidth/issues of the ARC.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Interesting points, a few others have also touted sticking with Android for those exact reasons. Thanks for sharing.

[@lukesdoings7150]

My Sony is about 3 years old and is slow as F. I can't stand it anymore. I wish it was just a monitor. I am thinking about just hooking a PC up to it and stream with my computer.

[@REAL-UNKNOWN-SHINOBI]

Why choose a non-smart TV over a regular Smart TV? Simple you have a channel keypad on your remote and you can manually input any channels, that your TV may not pick up on a channel scan.

[@bikersoncall]

I think it is fair to really be leery of any product that has the term 'Smart' attached to it, my experience is that there is always a big fail involved.

[@oplkfdhgk]

i also prefer non-smart TVs. can you recommend some high quality non-smart TV to me? :)

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Actually, if you read through the comments, you'll find a lot of great suggestions for a non smart TV option, or workaround.

[@oplkfdhgk]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters okay thanks for answer. 🙂

[@highonsmog]

Does converting a TV into a monitor allow you to bypass the data collection and ads? Would doing this be possible, and have any benefits? Could we use this system to upgrade refresh rates, and functionality visavie the computer and its video card and tv tuner attached? Or is this a pipe dream?

[@73Datsun180B]

sell your junk smart tv and build your own, it takes all of 5 minutes!

[@derekkerswell8596]

I dont have a smart device in the house peroid. I simply use a third party device for movies that I can unplug. Also it is nothing takes half a minute to hook my non smart Tv to my computer and I have far more options and capabilities than any so called smart Tv.

[@73Datsun180B]

I have a cheap mini SSD pc running my 10 year old HDTV!

[@anandraj8345]

Suggest some good TVs please. I wamt good picture quality and quality sound. That's it.

[@NBC_NCO]

I just need it to display a picture and have a audio output. As far as your question. My t.v is a very basic Samsung. I paid over 1,200.00 for it in the day. The downside side is it has absolutely no audio outputs. Really not a big deal. Till I use over the air TV signals. I see now days some have optical out ...A plus...but I could care less about all the applications. Smartphone, tablets, tower PC a laptop...all do streaming for me. Show me a picture and give me audio choices.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I agree 100%. Just give me a good picture, a decent number of inputs, and some audio output options. We can handle the rest!

[@joshuawoodbury8112]

I'm looking for 4k HDR non smart tv, any ideas? 55inch if possible

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

If you read through the comments, there have been a lot of great suggestions for non smart TV options. Some really great workarounds. Look forward to hearing what you end up with.

[@73Datsun180B]

Buy a monitor!

[@idselseno2306]

I don't know much about video and sound quality when it comes to home theater systems. But how about repurposing an old PC? I used HDMI and kinda tempted to add in a sound card with 5.1 channels. The old PC is just used for streaming youtube and netflix. It's also easier for the folks at home as they are familiar with using Windows. Any thoughts if this is inferior in sound and video quality?

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

I don’t see any problem with that solution at all if you have an old PC with HDMI collecting dust.

[@73Datsun180B]

I am running a 10 year old HDTV off a $200 mini SSD pc and it's great!

[@frankvizzi4617]

You can buy Scepter 55" Class 4K UHD LED HDR U550CV-U non-smart TV at Walmart on their Website for $258.00. I purchased it this week it is not hook up yet I'm waiting for cable to install the internet. It was extremely to find a non-smart TV.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thanks for sharing, lots of people in the comments asking for an option, and you've found one!

[@BronyumHexofloride]

Frankly i agree we as consumers need that choice between High quality "Dumb" TVs and "smart" ones but we are stuck in a situation where the only way to get a decent picture without paying for redundant "bloatware" we dont need is to take route of installing a projector in our AV rooms unfortunately we all don't have $8000 to spend on a decent laser projector, screen, light management and everything that comes with such setups... perhaps we need to start a campaign to push TV makers to provide a Non smart option

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Exactly, well said, and as always we can only push TV makers with our money and feedback.

[@laskovi6550]

Is there a difference between non smart tvs quality and the smart ones

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@laskovi6550 quality is a good thing to look out for, and audition before buying smart or non smart.

[@73Datsun180B]

You can get a old HDTV secondhand or buy a 4k monitor and connect a mini SSD pc to it for much less lol!

[@linnie7851]

I'm a dumb tv fan best buy sells insignia brand they are less expensive and dumb, I have 3 different sizes 32-55 for years have not had any problem, and still great picture.

[@eichelbergergary]

I have one. The screen quality is poor.

[@linnie7851]

@@eichelbergergary I don't know how long you've had it, but the settings are usually set up for store lighting, go to settings turn down brightmess contrast and see what happens, al of my insgnias are 1080p and have great pictures.

[@Excessive_complaining]

I genuinely just want to turn on the set and the first thing I'm met with is a black screen that says "HDMI 2" up in the top left, no advertising, no news outlets, no bombardments from streaming services. Just on and ready to go. Why is that such a tall ask?

[@73Datsun180B]

Get a monitor and a mini SSD pc then!

[@kygent508]

Where can I find non smart tvs?

[@73Datsun180B]

second-hand stores/pawnbrokers or buy a large monitor!

[@rudolfhuijs4526]

Totally agee on that. Remember the "you will own nothing, and be happy" trending world wide. This is an example. We pay mainly for the "amenities" (apps). Some years later suddenly they "don't support" the software or that brand anymore. Then you end buying a stick or whatever, even a new TV! Pay for some part of the bundle we won't own or have control over. Perfect business for those rippers!

[@williamwong5627]

That is why I still love my Win 98. No activation problem.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Yes, it is a perfect way to get people to keep upgrading perfectly good sets. I’m amazed at how many people don’t realize that you can buy a small, inexpensive streaming device for ANY TV with an HDMI input, new or old!

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Win 98? Seriously old school!

[@eattherich9215]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters: I should have checked out the streaming stick option before I sprung for a "smart" tv. Okay, it didn't cost a lot and two years down the line I have definitely had my money's worth, but still.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@eattherich9215 I think we were all hoping to eliminate yet another component by having a Smart TV. Turns out the streaming sticks are more reliably updated. Live and learn.

[@carmenwilley8858]

Do you get ABC NBC CBS PBS with Firestick or Roku?

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

There are usually multiple ways to get the major networks, either through an add-on with a streaming service, or direct with the Network's app. Most of the free services have ads and / or limited episodes, but if you're willing to pay for the service it will work.

[@danielgowans4473]

I'm a conspiracy theorist on this one. Smart TVs significantly shorten the upgrade cycle, resulting in more buying. It's a marketing ploy, but at the same time a market driven ploy by people who want convenience - buy one device, one remote, and be done. The drive for "ultimate convenience" is the second most destructive trend only to "enhancing shareholder value." However, it may also be responsible for the drop in pricing. A short upgrade cycle increases volume. So those of us that want to save money, this is a great opportunity to buy a great TV - even a smart TV, make it dumb when the time is right, and essentially get "subsidized" by everyone else that's upgrading every 3 years. I feel for the environment though... I love discrete components. I bought a Sony SmartTV a few years ago. Love the TV, but didn't like dealing with the software after a while. At first fine, but then just started showing its age, the processor started to feel slow, apps would get wonky and start having troubles. That's when I turned it into a dumb TV, now it just gets an HDMI signal from my discrete componets - and that's about it. And I've never had to deal with eARC or ARC or any of that. Unfortunately Smart TVs have kind of killed the Universal Remote market too, so often it DOES mean multiple remotes. I pick quality and control over convenience and I think making those conscious decisions increases enjoyment. Things that come too easy, that nobody has to struggle for, they take them for granted. Create a great multi-component system and struggle over it, and the quest will help you appreciate it all the more. And when it lasts 8-10 years over 2-3 years your cost per year will still be lower than the regular upgraders... and you will have thrown away less stuff so the environment will appreciate you too. Win win!

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

What a great way to look at it, and find the perfect way for you to navigate the home theater components and set-up. Thanks for sharing, and great tips for the environment too.

[@jaumm8839]

But what models are decent you can still find in most countries? I live in Brazil

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Best thing is to do your research online to see what’s available and has good reviews before venturing out. Then you know exactly what you want, with the features you want / don’t want.

[@jaumm8839]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters Great how about you, the specialist, do the research for me heh?

[@Rbionkah]

What about Apple TV?

[@taym510Oak]

Smart I’m having problems with my smart tv inputs not working only streaming and home screen works I tried everything every time I press source it just goes in and out back to home screen so I dusted off my Sony Bravia and plugged it in and it works perfectly but I don’t have a streaming device so I’m looking on eBay for one now smart tvs suck 🤦🏿‍♂️

[@Boorock70]

That's why SONY Premium TVs are expensive. Good software implementation, higher and faster processing, superior in vision, supporting both Dolby & DTS codecs ( No, LG & Samsung does not support DTS) and having pass-through via eARC for AVR setups. But... keep in mind that someday all smart TVs will be a dumb TV and you'll need an external solution. I've experienced this with my previous 2012 LG flagship LCD and ended up connecting an Android TV Box which turned all system to a Genius TV. Unfortunately those external Android TV Boxes have a life span too. Cause, companies don't care about the device after 2-3yrs which will end with a dumb (or slow TV box) I've changed my setup in 2020 and bought the legendary SONY 65XH9505 (X950H in US) with a predicted software life of 6-7yrs. After that period, I'll be looking at mini PCs (PC in a BOX) for software support of my AV System. Which is more expensive but superior than all Android TV Boxes.

[@overbuiltautomotive1299]

amd 3400g pc is what we use i use linux KDE fedora but a windows build ghost specter super lite make window great again lol

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

That’s great to hear that Sony is on top of their software. It’s a good thing to ponder, rather than just going with the best picture for the price when shopping.

[@73Datsun180B]

I am running my 10 year old HDTV off a cheap mini SSD pc with windows 10 and it is great!

[@David-kd5mf]

Any recommendations on dumb tvs ?

[@73Datsun180B]

second hand store/pawn brokers or a new monitor

[@Punisher1_1995]

I miss the old days of tvs not being smart.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Hopefully we can get back to non smart TVs.

[@Punisher1_1995]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters agreed

[@MrTomengle]

We just bought a new Hisense U8H television. It is google based. However you can setup the tv as a "dumb" tv and not have all of the apps. It does have the very basic ones though. i.e. Netflix, HBO and maybe two others. My wife watches Dishnet Satellite tv only. She wouldnt know how to turn on you tube to save her hide. So she is very happy with the dumb side of this new tv. If she never holds the actual tv remote in her hand she will be happy. OTOH, I use mine in my man cave all of the time.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Thanks for sharing this, lots of people in the comments looking for solutions to get around the smart TV.

[@Leostar-Regalius]

the last 2 smart tvs my brother got DIED a little after he got them, meanwhile the "dumb" tvs i have in my room, and the one in the that was in the living room(now in his room) have lasted YEARS, though i want to replace the tv in my room with a new one i do not want a smart TV

[@MO-ss7qt]

Up until this last TV, I've been able to avoid Smart TVs. That said, I've never network enabled this "Smart" TV. In searching, I found few non-smart TVs and they were far more expensive. TV manufacturers are going to get the profits they would have gotten selling your data right up front it would seem. For about a month, every time I turned on my Smart TV it would show a banner to review terms of service and connect to my network. I thought I'd have to put up with that banner forever, but it's no longer coming up when I turn on the TV. Everything is network enabled because there's such a huge market for your data. Well you think it's yours, but based on their practices, it would seem they believe they own it to sell it.

[@Datacorrupter234]

non smart tvs arent available. there are zero tvs for sale at best buy that dont have smart features. I use my ps5 for tv i dont want or need a smart tv for anything it only has drawbacks

[@73Datsun180B]

yes they do, they are called monitors!

[@21Million]

i need a fast start TV that turns on faster than my AppleTV device. tired of waiting 45-seconds for Sony tv to boot up

[@brandonsheffield9873]

Also, being forced to sign a User Agreement id you disagree your TV is bricked. Basically you dont actually own the TV.

[@NeverFullyDigital]

When I bought my TV I specifically looked for a non-smart TV. One of the salesladies was pushing hard for me to buy a smart TV, but I wasn’t interested.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Well done, glad you could still find one.

[@eattherich9215]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters: charity (thrift) shops may still have pre-smart flatscreen tvs as a result of a house clearance. I used to see old cathode ray tvs, but not any more.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@eattherich9215 That's an excellent tip, thanks!

[@samisen7579]

is there a capable non smart tv, OLED or QLED?

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@samisen7579 there are some really good workarounds listed in the comments, as well as some brand suggestions.

[@gustafchurn8282]

I feel like it is a conspiracy to make everyone jump through the idiot hoops...duhhh Double your IQ or no money back!! Duhhhh Sign me up!!! Duuuhhh

[@EUCme]

My apologies if I missed it. Does somebody have a list of non-smart TVs that are also quality tvs?

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

It's not easy, but ask the salespeople who work in the TV / electronics area. Also the comments have a wealth of alternatives to using a Smart TV.

[@EUCme]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters Thank you.

[@sengkimchew]

I support non smartTV concept. Why should we be paying extra on a TV feature that we already have. TV manufacturer should drop the smartTV concept.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Agreed, at the very least the option to have a Non Smart TV.

[@victorbaumgartner3861]

I'm tired of my smart TVs turning up to 100 in the middle of the night after your own for a few years

[@Robert-ug5hx]

I use non smart televisions,

[@Thehierophant25]

I dislike smart TVS because I believe that I shouldnt have to add my "Email" or Wifi into a TV it bugs the Crap out of me. I pray that the non smart TVs come back see I was Brought up in the 80s and 90s and I Do not believe in streaming technology or Emails, or Social media at a Time I was (all for it) but now I see it as More of a Danger. I have a smartphone but soon it will go to Flip phone. I dislike, I disapprove of all this Technology I know one day it will be our Downfall

[@anubiswerelupe]

I hate smart tvs. I bought a new tv several years ago and have maybe had it on a total of 15 minutes. It was too smart, and I had to jump through so many hoops just to use basic functions on it. It wasn't worth it. I don't care about having wifi connection. I don't care about having internet connected to it at all. I don't want streaming. I don't even care about having cable connected to it anymore, as that is a pain in the butt as it is. I just want a dumb tv that I can slap a DVD player or a game console on it and be done with it.

[@Super_Bros.]

Smart TVs suck as the TVs lag bad after only a couple years. I set mine to auto load to HDMI 1 that is a Roku. lol

[@anthonyanderson77]

Sceptre is a company that seems to be making dumb TVs in 2022 judging by their website but I can't find a retailer that is selling their products. One obvious solution is to buy dumb TVs whenever we can find that option to apply demand pressure that may result in production of more dumb TVs.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

It is a Walmart brand, so that's going to be the only place you can buy one. You're exactly right, we can vote with our money and steer clear of the Smart TVs.

[@eattherich9215]

You might still find non-smart tvs in charity (thrift) shops.

[@bikersoncall]

My BIGGER question is How do we buy 'dumb' TV's?? Please do a video on how we can 'easily' be assured we are buying a dumb tv. I think all of us with half a brain or better, do not want smart tv's.

[@73Datsun180B]

buy a monitor lol!

[@amalidbella]

i'm looking 4 a dump tv and boy it's hard 2 find one, the onley use 4 a tv 4 me is onley 2 play video games , i need a good display , and they onley make hd resolution , so sad , i don't 2 pay 400£ 2 have a decent smart tv wich i won't use

[@CaptainRew]

Im in the market for a new tv and this was my thought exactly. buy a dumb tv with better picture quality and just add a streaming stick. only problem is finding a dumb tv.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

There are quite a few good suggestions in the comments for how to get around the smart tv issue.

[@CaptainRew]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters i have yet to find any suggestions in the comments on non smart tvs that are available.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@CaptainRew to list a few; check thrift shops & second stores, outlet stores clearing out older TVs, using a projector & screen with a streaming stick, asking salespersons for a non smart TV option, using a laptop / monitor.

[@CaptainRew]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters oh shoot sorry I meant like exact brands and models of super high Def TV that are not smart. I'm trying to pay for super quality picture with not bells and whistles.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@CaptainRew think your best bet is to go to TV salespeople and ask for what's available. They will know right away if they have any non smart tv options.

[@theclaybeartravels3596]

I just want a tv for my elderly mother than she can turn on and it turns on straight to her antenna channel, for some reason, none of these TVs want to do that. Lets just alienate an entire demographic aged 65 and up with confusing menus, options, weird settings and remotes with so many god damn buttons. I can see right now if they keep making TVs like that, then the GRIT channel will go out of business because the elderly just wont watch TV anymore because they can't figure out how to use the stupid smart TVs.

[@chedinbuildsstudio5144]

The sad problem is nearly all TVs are smart ; the remaining TVs without any tracking-"smart"-network thingy (like , 1 or 2 units) are horrible screens with outdated screen technology , super low resolution and terrible picture quality . The best option is paying for monitors with worse picture quality for the same price or maybe super pricy commercial displays .

[@kevinerbs2778]

Monitors are meant for closer views than TV's. They actually have much better picture quality & pixel density comparted to TV's. You are right A commercial display is the only Non-smart TV you can buy most of the time.

[@chedinbuildsstudio5144]

@@kevinerbs2778 Good and all , but how are monitors better than tvs for picture quality ? I always hear the opposite .

[@kevinerbs2778]

@@chedinbuildsstudio5144 Who ever told you that doesn't know what they're talking about. Monitors have much higher pixel pitch/density compared to TVs..

[@tizzi91able]

LCD is crap that’s Why the price goes down. With Oled tvs and mini led tv normal lcd don’t have more value. That’s normal that you can get a 65” but it’s bad tv lcd edge lit or direct lit without local dimming or full array local dimming. That’s why is cheap

[@clrclr9683]

I came on KZbin to find out why my smart tv is black as it’s only about 5 years old. The lifespan of a smart TVs are 5-9 years old. It’s ridiculous.

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Absolutely ridiculous.

[@clrclr9683]

@@AxiomHomeTheaters I’m stuck with getting another one. I can’t find a non-smart tv 🙄🙄

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

@@clrclr9683 do read through the comments, there were a lot of great suggestions for which Smart TVs were more future proof than others.

[@73Datsun180B]

@@clrclr9683 buy a old HDTV or new monitor and a mini SSD pc instead!

[@privatear2001]

I'm absolutely a dumb TV fan. Smart TV's are GARBAGE for that same reasons you listed here. This is the same with a lot of electronic items over the years where you add more functionality, you get something for a lower price overall, but you feel that the lower price reflects poorer quality overall on each of the features.

[@overbuiltautomotive1299]

me to smart tvs are silly just buy a PC and hook to it .i am using a new old stock motherboard and AMD a8 cpu rebuild yep it`s old but new parts and with a video card (i ant using one yet) it will play all things fin and boots fast KDE fedora linux .the other is an AMD 3400g ryzen best bang fer buck in my findings.Or Just Buy an Android box with 4gb ram or better and a better power supply for it the 5 volt one that came with mine died in a day lol

[@AxiomHomeTheaters]

Exactly my point…there are normally better external solutions. Unfortunately most consumers think that they are getting great features as part of their TV purchase…until the software doesn’t work anymore.

[@AudiophileTommy]

Fine , now where to find a non-smart is gonna be a real problem 🎉

[@73Datsun180B]

secondhand or new monitor