I'm buying my first TV and would love some recommendations. My budget is around $200–$250, and I'm looking for a 43- to 45-inch model with streaming features that work well with my Apple devices, preferably through AirPlay. I don't need anything high-end—I've watched everything on my MacBook for the last 15 years, so almost any decent TV would be a big upgrade. Should I buy a smart TV with built-in apps, or get a simpler TV and add a separate streaming device?
3 Answers
I’d lean toward a basic TV plus an external streaming device. Built-in smart-TV systems can become slow or stop receiving updates long before the panel wears out, while a Roku or similar device is cheap and easy to replace. If you already use Apple products heavily, an Apple TV would be a smoother option, but it may push you over budget.
For this size and budget, you probably won’t notice much difference between 1080p and 4K unless you sit fairly close. A Roku streaming stick that supports AirPlay 2 could give you the Apple-device compatibility you want without relying on the TV’s built-in software.
A Roku TV can work perfectly well at this price, and you can still connect another streaming device later if the built-in system becomes outdated. I’d compare picture quality, ports, warranty, and customer reviews in person or online rather than focusing only on the brand. A 43-inch 1080p model should fit the budget more easily, while 4K models may cost closer to or above $250.
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