Indoor Outdoor Television: Is it Worth the Investment?

The allure of enjoying your favorite shows under the open sky is undeniable. But can your indoor TV handle the elements? While briefly moving your living room television outside might seem harmless, standard TVs are not designed for prolonged outdoor use. This is where the specialized category of Indoor Outdoor Television comes in. These weatherproof TVs are built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, offering a permanent solution for outdoor entertainment. But are they worth the higher price tag? This article delves into the key differences between indoor and outdoor TVs, helping you decide if an outdoor TV is the right investment for you.

Weatherproof Design: The Core Difference

The key distinction between indoor and outdoor televisions lies in their construction. Outdoor TVs are specifically engineered to endure harsh weather conditions. Unlike their indoor counterparts, they encase a standard LCD/LED panel in robust weatherproofing materials. This protection shields the internal components from rain, snow, dust, insects, extreme temperatures, and harmful UV rays, ensuring longevity even in the harshest climates.

Indoor TVs, on the other hand, are designed for controlled environments with limited temperature ranges. Exposure to excessive moisture, humidity, or temperature fluctuations can damage their sensitive electronics and screens. Even a covered patio doesn’t offer sufficient protection from the elements, leaving indoor TVs vulnerable to damage. Their open AV connections further expose them to dust and insects.

The Price of Protection: Cost Considerations

Historically, outdoor TVs have commanded a premium price compared to indoor models with similar screen sizes and features. This price difference reflects the specialized weatherproofing and durable construction required for outdoor use. However, as major brands like Samsung and LG enter the outdoor TV market, the price gap is gradually narrowing.

While premium features like mini-LED backlights or quantum dot technology are still less common in outdoor TVs, recent advancements have led to significant improvements in picture quality and features. Notably, the inclusion of built-in Wi-Fi and smart TV platforms is becoming increasingly prevalent, eliminating the need for external streaming devices and complex cable setups.

Choosing the Right Outdoor TV: Key Factors

Selecting the right indoor outdoor television requires careful consideration of several factors:

Placement and Brightness: Outdoor TVs are categorized based on their intended placement: full sun, partial sun/partial shade, and full shade. Brighter models are necessary for sunny locations to combat glare and ensure visibility.

Connectivity and Smart Features: Determine your preferred content sources. If you plan to stream, consider models with built-in Wi-Fi and smart TV platforms. Ensure sufficient HDMI inputs for connecting external devices.

The SunBriteTV Veranda 3 Series Outdoor Smart TV, sitting on a table in a garage.

Wi-Fi Coverage: For smart TVs, strong Wi-Fi is crucial. A mesh network or range extender may be required to extend your network’s reach to your outdoor entertainment area.

Testing the Limits: Real-World Performance

Recent tests of SunBrite’s Veranda 3, a full-shade outdoor TV, revealed promising advancements. Its slimmer design, built-in Wi-Fi, and Android TV platform mark significant improvements. While picture quality may not rival high-end indoor TVs, it performs well in shaded outdoor environments. However, maintaining consistent Wi-Fi connectivity for streaming 4K content in outdoor settings can still be a challenge.

Rigorous stress tests, including exposure to heavy rain and extreme temperatures, demonstrated the Veranda 3’s durability and weather resistance. Its IP55 rating further underscores its ability to withstand water and dust.

The Verdict: Is an Outdoor TV Right for You?

Investing in an indoor outdoor television is a significant decision. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against the cost and consider your specific needs. If you envision frequent outdoor entertainment and are willing to invest in proper installation and potentially address Wi-Fi limitations, an outdoor TV can provide years of enjoyment. However, for occasional use, a projector and screen might be a more cost-effective alternative.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on your lifestyle, budget, and commitment to creating a dedicated outdoor entertainment space. The latest generation of outdoor TVs offers compelling features and performance, making them a viable option for those seeking a permanent outdoor viewing solution.