Options for internet-enabled TV

[d000hg]

I've now got electricity in my garage () and am wondering about getting a cheap TV for when I go on the exercise bike, rather than using the iPad.

Predominantly I'll be watching Netflix, perhaps iPlayer too, a traditional TV feed is unlikely.
I was wondering about getting a smart/internet TV as these typically have Netflix & iPlayer built in, but I'm worried they run custom versions of these which might be crap compared to the Windows/iPad/PS3 versions, and not be updated.

Another option would be Chromecast but it seems that relies on having your phone/tablet, which wouldn't be ideal in this situation.

And of course I could use a laptop plugged into the TV as a monitor, but again this seems a bit silly in my scenario... plus I've rarely found this setup works totally smoothly.

What would others recommend? Are internet TVs any good and who is responsible for providing the apps they use?

[russell]

I've now got electricity in my garage () and am wondering about getting a cheap TV for when I go on the exercise bike, rather than using the iPad.

Predominantly I'll be watching Netflix, perhaps iPlayer too, a traditional TV feed is unlikely.
I was wondering about getting a smart/internet TV as these typically have Netflix & iPlayer built in, but I'm worried they run custom versions of these which might be crap compared to the Windows/iPad/PS3 versions, and not be updated.

Another option would be Chromecast but it seems that relies on having your phone/tablet, which wouldn't be ideal in this situation.

And of course I could use a laptop plugged into the TV as a monitor, but again this seems a bit silly in my scenario... plus I've rarely found this setup works totally smoothly.

What would others recommend? Are internet TVs any good and who is responsible for providing the apps they use?

I have a Samsung smart TV in the living room, it connects via wi-fi or ethernet to your router. The netflix app is good as is iPlayer, not as easy to use as web or ipad if you are using a remote control. They get updated regularly also

[northernladuk]

I also have a Samsung smart TV and use it for Netflix all the time. Mine is hardwired so never had to use it over wifi. I would guess it is designed to be ok.

You will of course be buying a surround sound for it if it is going in your man cave. The samsung surround sound has Smart TV built in so can be used on a non-smart TV. If you already have a non-smart TV it could be cheaper and more fun getting the surround sound system that to buy another TV. Here is one at only 174 quid.

http://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/tv-dvd-...11343-pdt.html

Also, just an idea like, these Android USB things you can plug in to TV's. Could you just get one of them and use Netflix Android app?

There was a thread about these devices in general awhile ago. One of our regular posters bought one. Lemme see if I can find it.

Here it is
http://forums.contractoruk.com/gener...one-these.html

http://www.amazon.co.uk/MK808-Androi...5953590&sr=8-1

And a youtube clip about them

[DirtyDog]

Can you not just plug an HDMI cable from the iPad into a screen, and get a normal TV / monitor?

I haven't tried from tablet to monitor, but can't imagine it's any different from tablet to TV, which I've done from my Nexus 10.

[northernladuk]

Oh balls.. Maybe scratch that particular version on Android USB. Spotted this in the reviews...

This review is from: MK808 Dual Core Android 4.1 TV BOX Rockchip RK3066 Cortex-A9 Mini PC Smart TV Stick (Electronics)
Just received, and found a trouble free set up. Plugged into HDMI of our large screen TV - worked first time. Had to plug in a keyboard to switch on the units WiFi. Then worked with a wireless keyboard.

BUT one big issue - the latest version of the android netflix app does not work with the current android build shipped with the unit. Which is one of the main reasons for my purchase. The Netflix app runs, but the picture is scrambled. A few searches on the internet suggest that this is something to do with the DRM of the android build on the unit (or lack of certain files)and is quiet common on many of these low cost android units at the moment. I guess that manufacturer will update this in time and there are probably ways to overcome this by downloading new builds etc. If any one out there can advise how to do this I would be greatfull of advice!

The Netflix issue is a real shame, as for the money this would be a great purchase if the Netflix worked. The You Tube app runs well and I have been able to watch some streaming content through the internet browser. Downloading apps from the google play store is easy.

The interface looks good on the 42 inch tv and is easy to navigate.

If I get past the netflix issue - I will update this post (and then I would rate this 4 - to 5 stars)

[d000hg]

I'm sure smart-TVs have decent iPlayer and Netflix apps NOW, but my question is whether each TV/manufacturer supplies their own bespoke app? Or do the providers supply common ones in some way... finding that Samsung/LG/whoever stop releasing updates for this year's models in 3 years would be very annoying.

A separate unit would seem to avoid this problem, that Android gadget for instance (barring issues you mentioned). At least then if that gadget is stuck on Android 4 and Netflix decide in 2016 to only support Android 6, you only have to buy a new gadget for £20 rather than a new TV. That's my main worry, that, the internet stuff on the TV will quickly lose support and not be updateable. Or do smart TVs actually run Android these days?

[d000hg]

Can you not just plug an HDMI cable from the iPad into a screen, and get a normal TV / monitor?

I haven't tried from tablet to monitor, but can't imagine it's any different from tablet to TV, which I've done from my Nexus 10.

Well yes but then I might as well just watch the iPad from right in front of me. The aim would be to avoid needing an iPad

[northernladuk]

I'm sure smart-TVs have decent iPlayer and Netflix apps NOW, but my question is whether each TV/manufacturer supplies their own bespoke app? Or do the providers supply common ones in some way... finding that Samsung/LG/whoever stop releasing updates for this year's models in 3 years would be very annoying.

A separate unit would seem to avoid this problem, that Android gadget for instance (barring issues you mentioned). At least then if that gadget is stuck on Android 4 and Netflix decide in 2016 to only support Android 6, you only have to buy a new gadget for £20 rather than a new TV. That's my main worry, that, the internet stuff on the TV will quickly lose support and not be updateable. Or do smart TVs actually run Android these days?

Stuff seems to be moving so fast to expect anything to be guaranteed to be working in 3 years is asking a lot IMO.

[DirtyDog]

Well yes but then I might as well just watch the iPad from right in front of me. The aim would be to avoid needing an iPad

I assumed that the aim was to be able to watch on a bigger screen than a 10 inch iPad.

If you aren't fussed about watching on a bigger screen, then why bother with anything than your iPad?

[d000hg]

Stuff seems to be moving so fast to expect anything to be guaranteed to be working in 3 years is asking a lot IMO.

Well you can watch Netflix on a 10 year old Windows PC... iOS/Android devices you know the apps will be updated and the OS updates will probably support your device (for a while) but my experiences with firmware updates is that they are crap!

I assumed that the aim was to be able to watch on a bigger screen than a 10 inch iPad.

If you aren't fussed about watching on a bigger screen, then why bother with anything than your iPad?

Part of the benefit is having something fixed, not just the screen size.