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Whether you have a partially covered outside space like a veranda or poolside cabana or not, there is an outdoor TV that will let you enjoy the next big game or a streaming binge while lounging in the sun or under the stars—winter, spring, summer, or fall. While outdoor TVs don’t differ too much from standard inside TVs, they do include treatments and protections that enable them to function normally in a wide range of weather conditions, temperatures, and sunlight. Those added protections do drive up the cost compared to equivalent indoor TVs, but that’s the price shoppers have to pay to ensure the life of the television.
That said, outdoor TVs do vary considerably in price. When searching for the right outdoor TV, decide whether the TV will be installed in a fully shaded area or a spot exposed to partial sun or full, direct sunlight. There are outdoor TVs made for each, and they come in sizes ranging from 43 to 85 inches (for the larger picture sizes, consider an outdoor projector). Some outdoor TVs even include built-in streaming apps.
All outdoor TVs have a large temperature range for operating in the freezing cold or oppressive heat, but if shoppers live in areas of extreme cold or heat, there are some outdoor TVs with even wider temperature ranges. Making an informed decision will ensure that buyers are happy with their big-ticket electronics purchase, avoiding spending extra for features they don’t need. To make it easier, ahead are our recommendations for the best TVs for outdoors of 2023.
- BEST OVERALL: Samsung The Terrace Series 65″ Class LED Outdoor TV
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Element Electronics 55″ 4K Outdoor Roku Smart TV
- BEST CONVERTED OUTDOOR TV: Weatherized Outdoor TVs Elite Converted 75″ LG 9
- BEST FOR SHADED AREAS: Sunbrite Veranda 3 Series 65″ Outdoor Full Shade TV
- BEST FOR PARTIAL-SUN: Furrion Aurora 65″ Partial Sun Outdoor Smart 4K TV
- BEST FOR FULL-SUN: Séura Full Sun Series 4K UHD HDR Outdoor TV
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Outdoor TV
Deciding on an outdoor TV requires some additional considerations as compared to indoor TVs—such as their ability to withstand outdoor conditions and how to install them—as well as standard factors like picture quality, sound, and connectivity options.
Weather Resistance
Any TV specifically designated as an outdoor TV will include some amount of weather resistance. For example, the outdoor TVs in this guide all include either IP54 or IP55 weatherproofness to protect against dust and moisture in the form of humidity, rain, or splashing. IP54 is slightly less water-resistant, so it should be all right with rain but less so against the bombardment of a garden hose. This weather resistance usually also extends to the compartment for the TV’s HDMI, USB, and other connections, as well as to the remote control, but double-check that before purchase.
Outdoor TVs also have extended ranges of operating temperature compared to indoor TVs. A typical range on the low end would be something like -4 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. However, other outdoor sets go as far as -40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, so shoppers should decide what’s best for their local climate.
Picture Quality
Desirable picture traits for indoor TVs include 4K (ultra-high definition) resolution and high dynamic range (HDR). Because outdoor TVs are already premium products, most of them include both 4K and HDR displays, but there are other factors to consider for outdoor TVs. They are usually designated for use in fully shaded areas or for exposure to partial sun or full sun. Either way, outdoor TVs usually offer brighter screens than indoor televisions. In the case of full-exposure outdoor TVs, they can be more than 6 times brighter than typical indoor TVs, which amounts to about 2000 nits of brightness. Most outdoor TVs also have antireflective or anti-glare glass screens—even those made for fully shaded areas—but it’s worth it to make sure that the outdoor TVs being considered include that feature.
Signal/Video Sources
Some outdoor TVs include a built-in smart TV platform for using streaming apps. If a buyer’s home Wi-Fi will not reach the spot where they plan to install the TV, then they will probably rely on plugging devices into the input ports and the TV’s tuner (for which they may wish to add an outdoor TV antenna). Most outdoor TVs include three or more HDMI inputs and one or more USB inputs, as well as an analog/digital TV tuner, but shoppers should check to see if the TV has enough connectivity for their needs.
If shoppers plan on watching streaming media over their Wi-Fi network, there are many options that include a Smart TV platform like Android TV, Roku, or Samsung’s Tizen OS that include access to all the major streaming apps for video and music. Other outdoor TVs may not have streaming apps built in but include a weatherproof compartment for plugging in small streaming devices like an Amazon Fire Stick. Also consider whether a TV includes other wireless connectivity options like compatibility with Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay, or Chromecast.
Sound
In general, a TV’s built-in speakers—both outdoor and indoor TVs—do not sound as good as soundbars or surround-sound speaker systems, but a relatively loud set of speakers for an outdoor TV will be a 20-watt (W) system. Some outdoor TVs have lower wattage speakers, and some have no internal speaker at all, meaning shoppers will need to pair it with a soundbar or other speaker system that is also treated for outdoor use. In such a case, the TV manufacturer probably also makes a speaker system meant for the TV, or the retailer will be able to recommend one or more speaker systems.
Accessories
Many outdoor TV owners prefer to wall-mount their TV rather than stand it on a flat surface. They also may want to cover it with a soft case or install it inside a more robust enclosure. Outdoor TVs are already weatherproof, so a cabinet or enclosure is not strictly necessary, but they do provide additional protection from weather and/or theft.
Shoppers might want to think about how they’d like to install the TV and then check to see what accessories come with the standard purchase. Outdoor TVs weigh considerably more than comparable indoor TVs due to their extra weatherproofness and anti-glare glass, so installing them can be a challenge. The retail seller may offer professional installation either as part of the purchase or at an additional cost.
Our Top Picks
Whether you’re catching some vitamin D in shorts and a tank top or cozying up with a warm blanket and fleece hoodie, being outside in the fresh air simply makes watching TV more fun. We extensively researched the best outdoor TVs to help you make your yard a home.
Best Overall
Samsung The Terrace Series 65u0022 Class LED Outdoor TV
The Terrace by Samsung offers the best of both worlds: a premium 4K LED smart TV that is also weatherproof and built for outdoor use. Its IP55 weatherproofness provides water and dust resistance, and its antireflection treatment resists glare. There are two versions available: one for full-sun exposure and one for partial sun. The full-sun price roughly doubles the partial-sun price, but that is often the case with outdoor TVs. Regardless of the version, 2,000+ nits of brightness make the display extraordinarily bright—great for daytime outdoor viewing. The picture also benefits from Samsung’s highly touted QLED Quantum Dot processing, an AI-assisted technology that purportedly delivers more than a billion shades of color. The colors are spectacularly vibrant, and the black levels are the richest on the market from an outdoor TV.
Just like Samsung’s popular indoor smart TVs, The Terrace includes the company’s Tizen OS interface with plenty of apps available—including all the major streaming services—so viewers don’t have to connect a streaming box or Ethernet cable if their home Wi-Fi reaches the TV. There’s also Bluetooth connectivity, Apple AirPlay 2 casting, screen-mirroring options from certain Android phones, Alexa and Google Assistant voice-control options, and control from the Samsung SmartThings smart-home hub app. The Terrace simply provides the greatest balance between rugged outdoor build quality, brilliant picture, and high-tech connectivity and interface.
Product Specs
- Brightness: 2000+ nits
- Loudness: 20W RMS
- Picture: QLED 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) with HDR and 120-hertz (Hz) refresh rate
Pros
- Sharp picture with accurate color and deep black levels
- IP55 weatherproof to resist moisture and dust
- Extra-bright display
- Tizen OS smart TV interface
Cons
- Quite heavy at 82 pounds for the 65-inch model
- Expensive, especially the full-sun version
Get the Samsung outdoor TV at Amazon or B&H Photo.
Best Bang for the Buck
Element Electronics 55u0022 4K Outdoor Roku Smart TV
Due to the weatherproof and antireflection measures that makers of outdoor TVs need to take, backyard displays cost exceptionally more than their indoor counterparts. However, the outdoor Element Electronics 55-Inch 4K Outdoor Roku Smart TV designed for partial-sun exposure clearly takes the prize for the best value in an outdoor television.
While it’s not nearly as bright or loud as Samsung’s The Terrace, it costs about half or less than many other 55-inch outdoor sets (no other screen sizes are available). Yet for its price, it still comes with reliable IP55 weatherproofness for water and dust resistance, anti-glare glass, and operating temperatures of -4 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the screen doesn’t resist water streaking as well as other outdoor TVs, the 4K picture is sharp and exhibits crisp details.
In addition to its four HDMI inputs, a USB input, and an analog/digital TV tuner, this outdoor TV runs on the Roku streaming platform and customizable interface, which provides easy access to many free channels as well as to all the subscription streaming apps and Apple AirPlay. There’s a simple physical remote control and the well-appointed Roku mobile app for controlling the TV, which can also integrate voice control with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home, and provides private listening through earphones.
Product Specs
- Brightness: 700 nits
- Loudness: 10W speakers
- Picture: 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) with HDR10 and 60 Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Vibrant, sharp picture
- Roku operating system
- Most affordable outdoor TV
Cons
- Heavy for its size at 71.6 pounds
- Not the most elegant aesthetic appearance
- Less color accuracy and black levels than elite outdoor TVs
Get the Element Electronics outdoor TV at BrandsMart USA.
Best Converted Outdoor TV
Weatherized Outdoor TVs Elite Converted 75u0022 LG 9
Along with Samsung, LG makes some of the most popular and acclaimed high-tech TVs of the day with beautiful, crystal-clear displays. Not all of the best TV brands like LG make their own outdoor models like Samsung’s The Terrace, but buyers can still enjoy LG’s AI-assisted video and sound processing and WebOS smart TV interface outside via the Weatherized Outdoor TVs Elite Converted 75-Inch LG 9. The company takes an LG NanoCell 4K smart TV with ThinQ AI processing and hydrophobically treats its internal components to shield them from dust, corrosion, rain, and humidity.
In addition, Weatherized also externally weatherproofs the TV to allow it to withstand outdoor conditions and glare. By the numbers, this LG TV is not as bright as many outdoor TVs, but its NanoCell display technology works better for bright conditions than OLED screens because it better retains its colors and wide viewing angles despite full-exposure sunlight. All of this after-market treatment greatly increases the price for the large 75-inch screen, but the same LG series converted TVs are also available in 43-, 50-, 55-, and 70-inch sizes for lower prices.
Regardless of size, the TV is packed with LG’s AI processing for 4K video upscaling and heightened picture and sound quality. The TV works with Bluetooth audio, Apple AirPlay 2, and voice control/smart-home integration via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The WebOS smart TV platform connects owners to all the streaming apps from the TV’s built-in Wi-Fi, so they can get news, sports, shows, and even games without connecting additional hardware. Converted TVs like this are not often available at the major electronics retailers, but if shoppers want a top-shelf outdoor TV that they can’t buy off the shelf, consider a converted LG TV from Weatherized.
Product Specs
- Brightness: 300 cd/m2
- Loudness: 20W RMS
- Picture: 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) with HDR and 120 Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Weatherproof, both internally and externally
- Full smart-TV features
- LG NanoCell display technology exhibits good colors/viewing angles in sunlight
Cons
- Converted LG TV may not be most recent model
Get the Weatherized outdoor TV on BBQGuys or Weatherized.
Best for Shaded Areas
Sunbrite Veranda 3 Series 65u0022 Outdoor Full Shade TV
When purchasing an outdoor TV made for shaded areas rather than spots that are exposed to direct sunlight, shoppers can save some money while still having the benefit of full weatherproofness. That’s the case with the Sunbrite Veranda 3 Series Outdoor Full Shade TV. The 55-inch version has a relatively low price for outdoor TVs. The 65- and 75-inch versions also cost less than comparably sized outdoor TVs made for full sunlight. However, they are very durable, with IP55 water and dust resistance for the TV and remote control.
The Veranda 3 Series display is quite bright and also features local dimming, which helps its contrast ratio reach an impressive 6000:1. The fantastic picture quality also boasts Quantum Dot technology for more than 1 billion colors and an excellent handling of motion blur due to its 120 Hz refresh rate. Along with HDR support, that makes the Veranda 3 Series a prime option for gaming or watching sports and fast-action movies in a shaded outdoor space.
In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless connections, the Veranda 3 Series TVs come with the Android TV smart interface, which includes the Google Play app store for streaming services, voice control via Google Assistant, and wireless Chromecasting from mobile devices and computers.
Product Specs
- Brightness: 1000 nits
- Loudness: 20W speakers
- Picture: 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) with HDR and 120 Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Mature Android TV smart TV platform
- Good wireless and wired connectivity
- Durable
Cons
- Not made for direct sunlight
- No Apple AirPlay
Get the Sunbrite outdoor TV at Amazon or Crutchfield.
Best for Partial-Sun
Furrion Aurora 65u0022 Partial Sun Outdoor Smart 4K TV
With an outdoor TV made for partial sun exposure, shoppers are likely to find mid-level brightness levels, as well as mid-level prices, but with durable weatherproofness. The Furrion Aurora gives buyers that and more. Made for permanent installation in partially shaded spaces like outdoor cabanas and patios, the 65-inch display (43-, 50-, and 55-inch models are also available) is quite affordable in the world of outdoor televisions. For that, buyers get IP54-rated weatherproofness for dust and humidity and slightly less water resistance than IP55 (think resistance to rain, but not garden hoses).
However, the Aurora works in temperatures from -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, with built-in cooling fans and a very strong XtremeShield IK08-rated tempered-glass screen with a 178-degree viewing angle. In addition to an anti-glare panel, the display responds to the ambient light conditions with automatic screen brightening and dimming.
The Aurora TV has a clear picture, and it is streaming ready with built-in access to apps, so users don’t need any additional streaming hardware. However, three HDMI inputs, two USB inputs, and an analog/digital tuner give buyers plenty of connection options.
Product Specs
- Brightness: 750 nits
- Loudness: 8W speakers (2)
- Picture: 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) with HDR10 and 60 Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Strong build made for 4 seasons of outside use
- Auto screen brightening and dimming
- Streaming app included
- Waterproof remote control
Cons
- Made for wall-mounting only
- IP54 is slightly less water-resistant than IP55
- Very heavy at 94 pounds for the 65-inch
Get the Furrion outdoor TV at Crutchfield.
Best for Full-Sun Exposure
Séura Full Sun Series 4K UHD HDR Outdoor TV
To lay claim to the biggest and best-looking outdoor TV for full sun exposure, shoppers will need to part with a superlative sum, particularly in the case of the 85-inch Séura Full Sun Series 4K outdoor TV (there are also 50- and 65-inch versions for less than half the price). Yet for those who have considerable means, the extremely bright Séura outdoor TV’s screen visibility performs even better in direct sunlight than the venerable Samsung The Terrace series. The Séura sets also have the largest range of operating temperature: -40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
While this TV does not include a built-in smart-TV platform for streaming apps, its IP55 weatherproof rating for protecting against dust and moisture extends to its remote control and a weatherproof compartment for storing a third-party streaming media device. This outdoor TV also lacks internal speakers, but Séura sells a companion soundbar made for outdoor conditions, or buyers can pair it with the speakers of their choice.
The brilliant-looking Séura outdoor TV screens benefit from 2000 nits of brightness and anti-glare coating, plus built-in cooling fans help shield internal components from overheating. While the Séura Full Sun Series TV’s tanklike build is designed for the extremes of year-round use, it also includes a longer-than-usual 2-year warranty.
Product Specs
- Brightness: 2000 nits
- Loudness: No built-in speakers
- Picture: 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) with HDR10 and 60 Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Best picture available for full-sun exposure
- Thorough weatherproof and anti-glare measures
- Widest range of operating temperatures
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive and heavy
- No built-in speakers
- 85-inch model requires 20-amp circuit and NEMA 5-20p electrical outlet
Get the Séura outdoor TV at Séura, World Wide Stereo, or BBQGuys.
Our Verdict
While outdoor TVs are built with different exposures to sunlight in mind (full and partial sunlight or full shade), the Samsung outdoor TV presents the most well-rounded package in this category. It comes in both full-sun and partial-sun versions. Although the Séura outdoor TV exhibits somewhat better visibility in direct sunlight than Samsung model, Samsung’s fantastic Tizen OS smart TV and smart-home platform, wireless connectivity options, and a lower price tip the scales to the Samsung Terrace’s favor.
Of course, the Samsung Terrace is not exactly cheap. No outdoor TVs are, as they cost multiples of the price of equivalent indoor TVs due to the expense of weatherproofness. However, bargain hunters still have a great option in outside entertainment with the Element Electronics outdoor TV. Its full weatherproof anti-glare screen and Roku TV streaming platform mean that buyers don’t have to sacrifice much to enjoy a well-appointed TV outside the comfort of their own home.
How We Chose the Best Outdoor TVs
This guide is based on extensive research into TVs made for outdoor use. That includes the technical specifications and features available as well as a consensus of expert and customer reviews. Important factors taken into consideration comprise an intersection of price, weatherproofness, antireflection treatment, operating temperature range, display performance, connectivity, and the availability of built-in software for media streaming or other special technology. There is not nearly as wide a selection of outdoor TVs available as there is for inside TVs, but we considered several dozen outdoor models, and not every company making outdoor TVs made the list.
FAQs
Outdoor TVs are still somewhat of an unfamiliar category in electronics among shoppers. Here are some answers to common questions to get you up to speed.
Q. Do I have to buy a special TV for outdoors?
If you want to keep a TV outside your house, you probably should buy a TV specially made for outdoors as they receive extensive treatment for weather resistance and exposure to colder and hotter temperatures as well as anti-glare screens. If you have a shaded area outside that’s protected from rain and the worst weather conditions, you might be able to get away with using a regular TV, but outdoor TVs give you the peace of mind that they’re made to stay outside.
Q. What is the best outdoor television?
Many outdoor TVs have different strengths, pros, and cons, but we have designated the Samsung outdoor TV as the best overall model.
Q. What is the best placement for an outdoor TV?
While outdoor TVs are designed to be extraordinarily robust and to resist water and harsh weather conditions, there are still some basic tips for best placement that may help protect the unit and make for a better viewing experience. If you have a sprinkler, pool, fireplace, grill, etc. outside, try to place the TV at a safe distance from them—at least 6 feet. Also, specific outdoor TVs are often intended for viewing in full shade, partial sun, or full sun. Either way, if your outdoor TV will be under sunlight at some point, try to place it facing north, and it will receive less direct sunlight that way.
Q. Do I need an outdoor TV enclosure?
For weatherproof purposes, you should not need an outdoor TV enclosure because outdoor TVs are already treated for exposure to the elements. However, some people choose to put their outdoor TV inside a cabinet or enclosure not only for additional weatherproofness, but also for protection. If you’re concerned about possible theft, get a lockable TV enclosure and securely wall-mount it.
Q. Can I leave my TV outside in the cold?
You can leave your outdoor TV outside in the cold, but it won’t hurt to check the outdoor TV’s operating temperature range to be safe. A common minimum operating temperature for outdoor TVs is -4 degrees Fahrenheit—low enough for most ski chalets in the Lake Tahoe area, for example. However, the Séura outdoor TV dips even lower to -40 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the most frigid limit in this guide.
Q. How long will a regular TV last outside?
How long a regular TV will last outside depends on the specific TV and, most importantly, on the weather to which it’s exposed. Specially designed outdoor TVs exist for good reason. If you try to keep a regular TV outside, under the right conditions and shelter, it may last as long as it would inside. On the other hand, it may be ruined before your favorite sports team plays its next game.