A TV, chosen for your room.

01

Measure the setup, not just the diagonal

A screen's advertised diagonal does not tell you its cabinet width, stand footprint or clearance around the ports. Write down your console's usable width and depth, then compare those figures with the manufacturer's dimensions including the stand. A television that fits the wall may still have feet that overhang the furniture.

Consider where everyone sits and where daylight lands. Take a photograph of the room from the usual seat during your normal viewing hours. That photograph is a more useful shopping reference than remembering the room as vaguely bright. For wall mounting, use the exact mounting instructions and an appropriately qualified installer rather than assuming an existing bracket is compatible.

02

Turn panel labels into a viewing question

Sony's explanation distinguishes self-illuminating OLED pixels from backlit LCD designs, including Mini LED. Those descriptions explain the architecture, not the measured performance of every model using it. Treat them as a way to form questions about dark scenes, reflections and everyday viewing, not as an automatic order of quality.

For an evening-film setup, ask to compare how the specific sets handle the scenes you enjoy. For daytime viewing, look for evidence about reflections and brightness on the actual models. Showroom settings and promotional clips are not a controlled comparison. If two models are close, your room and return terms may matter more than the technology badge.

Source: How to select a TV, Sony

03

Count the devices you actually connect

List the console, streaming box, soundbar and any other device you plan to keep. Then check the television's exact input layout and the features supported on each port. A general HDMI claim in the listing is not a substitute for the model's specifications, especially when a sound system needs a particular connection.

If gaming is central, compare support for the console's output modes in the manual. If it is not, do not let a gaming feature dominate the shortlist. Similarly, confirm your streaming apps on the specific regional model, and decide whether you prefer its built-in interface or already use a separate streaming device.

04

Compare the delivered package

Put the exact model number beside the delivered price, included stand, delivery service and return conditions. Similar names can hide different model years or regional versions. Check whether delivery means leaving a box at the door or bringing it inside, and whether installation is a separate charge.

Our buying judgment: spend first on the screen and setup you will use every day, then decide on accessories. A bundle is worthwhile only when its contents match your brief. Before accepting a sale deadline, make sure you can describe why this particular set fits better than the alternatives without mentioning the discount.

THE SHORTLIST STARTS HERE

Three directions to compare

Start with the approach that fits your needs, then compare the details that matter to you.