85 Inch TVs: The Ultimate Guide To Size, Brands & More
So, you're thinking about diving into the world of massive screens and upgrading to an 85-inch TV, huh? Well, you've come to the right place! This isn't just about buying a big TV; it's about transforming your entire viewing experience. Let's break down everything you need to know, from finding the perfect spot in your room to choosing the best brand for your needs. We'll cover resolution, smart features, and even a bit about installation – because, let's face it, wrangling an 85-inch beast is no joke!
Why Go Big? The Allure of the 85-Inch Screen
Let's be real, folks: size matters! When it comes to TVs, that is. An 85-inch screen isn't just a TV; it's a statement. It's about bringing the cinema experience right into your living room. But why should you consider going this big? Firstly, the immersive experience is unparalleled. Imagine watching your favorite action movie and feeling like you're right in the middle of the scene. The sheer scale of the picture draws you in, making every explosion, every landscape, and every dramatic close-up feel incredibly real. This is particularly noticeable with 4K and 8K content, where the detail is so crisp and clear that it feels like looking through a window.
Beyond the immersive factor, an 85-inch TV is fantastic for social viewing. Got a big family? Love hosting game nights or movie marathons? An 85-inch screen ensures that everyone gets a great view, no matter where they're sitting. No more squinting or fighting for the best spot on the couch! Plus, with modern TVs boasting wide viewing angles, the picture quality remains consistent even when viewed from the sides.
Another often-overlooked benefit is the improved visibility for those with visual impairments. The larger screen makes text and images easier to see, which can be a game-changer for older viewers or anyone with less-than-perfect eyesight. It's about making entertainment accessible and enjoyable for everyone. And let's not forget the sheer wow factor. An 85-inch TV is a conversation starter. It's the kind of thing that impresses your guests and makes your living room the go-to spot for movie nights and sports viewings. It's a visual centerpiece that elevates the entire aesthetic of your home. However, it's crucial to consider your room size before taking the plunge. An 85-inch TV in a small room can be overwhelming and uncomfortable to watch. You need enough distance between the screen and your seating area to fully appreciate the picture without straining your eyes.
Finding the Perfect Fit: Room Size and Viewing Distance
Okay, so you're tempted by the siren song of the 85-inch screen. Awesome! But before you click that 'buy' button, let's talk about the practical stuff: room size and viewing distance. This is crucial, guys. You don't want to end up with a TV that's so big it gives you a headache just looking at it. As a general rule, you want to maintain a comfortable viewing distance that allows you to see the entire screen without having to strain your eyes or move your head excessively. A good starting point is to aim for a viewing distance that's approximately 1.5 to 2.5 times the screen's diagonal measurement. For an 85-inch TV, that translates to roughly 10.6 to 17.7 feet.
Now, I know what you're thinking: "That's a pretty big range!" And you're right. The ideal viewing distance can depend on a few factors, including your personal preference, the resolution of the TV, and the type of content you're watching. If you're primarily watching 4K or 8K content, you can sit closer to the screen without sacrificing picture quality. The higher resolution means there are more pixels packed into the same screen area, resulting in a sharper, more detailed image, even at close range. On the other hand, if you're mostly watching standard definition content, you'll want to sit further back to avoid seeing pixelation and other artifacts.
Of course, there's no substitute for trying it out yourself. If possible, visit a local electronics store and see an 85-inch TV in person. Experiment with different viewing distances to see what feels most comfortable for you. Pay attention to how your eyes feel after watching for a few minutes. Are you straining to see the entire screen? Do you find yourself moving your head a lot to take everything in? If so, you may need to increase your viewing distance. Don't forget to consider the layout of your room. Think about where you'll be placing the TV and where your seating will be located. Are there any obstacles, such as furniture or doorways, that could interfere with your viewing experience? It's always a good idea to measure your space and sketch out a rough floor plan to get a better sense of how the TV will fit into your room. Keep in mind that an 85-inch TV is a significant investment, so it's worth taking the time to get it right. By carefully considering your room size and viewing distance, you can ensure that you'll be able to enjoy your new TV to the fullest.
Top Brands and Models: Navigating the 85-Inch TV Landscape
Alright, let's dive into the exciting part: choosing the right 85-inch TV! The market is overflowing with options, each boasting its own set of features, technologies, and price points. So, how do you navigate this landscape and find the perfect TV for your needs? Let's take a look at some of the top brands and models currently available.
Samsung: Samsung is a dominant player in the TV market, and for good reason. Their 85-inch TVs are known for their vibrant colors, sharp images, and cutting-edge technologies. Models like the QN85C and QN90C (Neo QLED) offer exceptional picture quality with deep blacks, brilliant highlights, and wide viewing angles. Samsung TVs also come with a wealth of smart features, including their Tizen operating system, which provides access to a wide range of streaming apps and services.
LG: LG is another top contender, particularly renowned for their OLED TVs. OLED technology offers perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and stunning color accuracy. If you're a cinephile looking for the ultimate viewing experience, an LG OLED 85-inch TV is definitely worth considering. Models like the OLED83C3 and OLED83G3 are among the best on the market. LG TVs also feature their webOS smart platform, which is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive app library.
Sony: Sony is a brand that's synonymous with quality and innovation. Their 85-inch TVs are known for their accurate colors, smooth motion handling, and impressive upscaling capabilities. Sony TVs also feature their Google TV smart platform, which provides access to a vast library of apps and services. Sony's X90L is often praised for its balance of performance and price.
Hisense: If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, Hisense is a brand to consider. While their TVs may not offer the same level of performance as Samsung, LG, or Sony, they still provide a decent picture quality and a good set of features for the price. Hisense offers 85-inch models with QLED technology, which enhances color and brightness.
TCL: TCL has quickly become a popular brand in the TV market, offering a range of affordable options with impressive performance. Their 85-inch TVs often feature QLED technology and smart features like Roku TV or Google TV. Keep an eye out for models like the TCL 85Q650G which offers great value for money.
When choosing an 85-inch TV, consider your budget, viewing habits, and desired features. Do you prioritize picture quality above all else? Are you a gamer who needs low input lag and fast refresh rates? Or are you simply looking for a large screen for casual viewing? Once you've identified your priorities, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect 85-inch TV for your home.
Setting the Stage: Installation and Setup Tips
So, the big day has arrived. Your brand-new 85-inch TV is here! But before you can kick back and enjoy your favorite movie, you need to get it installed and set up properly. This is no small feat, folks. An 85-inch TV is heavy and unwieldy, so it's important to take your time and follow these tips to ensure a smooth and safe installation.
First things first: safety first! Make sure you have at least two people to help you lift and maneuver the TV. These things are heavy, and you don't want to risk dropping it or injuring yourself. Before you even unbox the TV, clear the area where you'll be setting it up. Remove any obstacles, such as furniture or decorations, that could get in the way. Protect your floor with a blanket or drop cloth to prevent scratches.
Next, decide whether you'll be mounting the TV on the wall or placing it on a stand. Wall mounting can save space and create a sleek, modern look, but it requires more planning and effort. If you're mounting the TV, make sure you have a sturdy wall mount that's specifically designed for large TVs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and use the appropriate hardware for your wall type. If you're placing the TV on a stand, make sure the stand is wide enough and sturdy enough to support the weight of the TV. Position the stand on a level surface and ensure that the TV is stable before letting go.
Once the TV is in place, it's time to connect your devices. Start by plugging in your power cord and connecting your HDMI cables. Make sure you use high-quality HDMI cables to ensure the best possible picture and sound quality. Connect your cable box, Blu-ray player, gaming console, and any other devices you plan to use with your TV. Next, connect your audio system. If you're using a soundbar, connect it to the TV using an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) cable. This will allow you to control the soundbar's volume with your TV remote.
Finally, it's time to turn on the TV and go through the initial setup process. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your Wi-Fi network, set your language and time zone, and scan for channels. Once the setup is complete, take some time to adjust the picture settings to your liking. Experiment with different picture modes, such as Standard, Cinema, and Game, to see which one looks best to you. You can also adjust the brightness, contrast, color, and sharpness settings to fine-tune the picture to your preferences.
The Verdict: Is an 85-Inch TV Right for You?
So, after all this, the million-dollar question remains: Is an 85-inch TV right for you? Ultimately, the answer depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
If you're looking for the ultimate immersive viewing experience, an 85-inch TV is definitely worth considering. The sheer size of the screen draws you in and makes you feel like you're right in the middle of the action. This is particularly noticeable with 4K and 8K content, where the detail is so crisp and clear that it feels like looking through a window. An 85-inch TV is also great for social viewing, ensuring that everyone gets a great view, no matter where they're sitting. Plus, the larger screen can be a boon for those with visual impairments.
However, an 85-inch TV is not for everyone. It requires a large room and a comfortable viewing distance to fully appreciate the picture without straining your eyes. It's also a significant investment, so you need to be prepared to spend some serious money. If you're on a tight budget or have a small living room, you may be better off with a smaller TV.
Before making a decision, consider your viewing habits, budget, and room size. Visit a local electronics store and see an 85-inch TV in person to get a sense of its size and picture quality. Talk to a salesperson and ask any questions you may have. And don't forget to read online reviews to see what other people are saying about different models. With careful research and planning, you can find the perfect 85-inch TV to transform your home entertainment experience.
Whether you're a movie buff, a sports fanatic, or a gamer, an 85-inch TV can take your viewing experience to the next level. Just be sure to do your homework and choose wisely. Happy viewing, folks!