Television Made in the USA: A Look at the Current Landscape

The quest for a television truly “Made in the USA” can be challenging. While the golden age of American television manufacturing has passed, some companies still uphold the tradition of American innovation and assembly. This article delves into what “Made in the USA” truly means and explores the current state of American-made televisions.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) defines “Made in the USA” as a product where “all or virtually all” of its components, processing, and labor originate within the United States. This stringent definition often excludes products assembled in the USA using imported parts. Unfortunately, the FTC investigates claims of misleading “Made in the USA” labeling only after receiving public reports.

A Brief History of American Television Manufacturing

Iconic brands like RCA, Magnavox, Zenith, and Westinghouse once dominated the American television market. The industry peaked in the late 1960s, but a confluence of factors, including foreign competition, outsourcing for cheaper labor, and evolving global markets, led to a decline in domestic production.

The Current Reality: Are There Any TVs Truly Made in the USA?

The straightforward answer is no. A fully American-made television, from component manufacturing to assembly, doesn’t exist in today’s market. The intricate components, particularly circuit boards, are predominantly sourced from overseas.

However, a niche market persists for American-engineered and assembled televisions, primarily in the outdoor TV sector. These companies, while relying on some imported components, provide American jobs, innovation, and exceptional customer service.

American Companies in the Outdoor TV Market

Three notable companies stand out in the American outdoor television landscape:

Séura

Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Séura specializes in specialty televisions, including mirror TVs, waterproof TVs for humid environments, and outdoor TVs. They manufacture their screens in the USA, with in-house design and assembly. Séura is a family-owned and female-led company, emphasizing American craftsmanship.

SkyVue

SkyVue, a family-owned business in South Carolina, focuses on weatherproof outdoor televisions for residential and commercial use. They offer three series: OBX, NXG, and Fusion, all assembled in the USA.

SunBrite

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, SunBrite specializes in outdoor televisions engineered to withstand the elements while delivering high-quality visuals. Their Signature 2 and Pro 2 series cater to varying sunlight conditions. While SunBrite assembles some TVs in North America, it’s important to note that not all their products are made in the USA. Always check the product specifications before purchasing.

Navigating the “Made in the USA” Label for Televisions

Consumers should exercise caution when researching American-made TVs online. Many sources incorrectly label foreign brands like Philips Magnavox, Sharp, Toshiba, and Panasonic as American-made. Always verify information directly with the manufacturer or trusted sources. Element Electronics, for example, assembles televisions in South Carolina but uses components made in China.

Conclusion

While a completely “Made in the USA” television remains elusive, companies like Séura, SkyVue, and SunBrite demonstrate a commitment to American innovation and assembly within the specialized outdoor TV market. By supporting these companies, consumers can contribute to the resurgence of American manufacturing while enjoying high-quality, specialized televisions. Remember to always thoroughly research a product’s origin before making a purchase to ensure it aligns with your “Made in the USA” expectations.