Best Easy to Use Portable TV for Seniors

Just imagine how you can use a portable TV… It’s television entertainment no matter where you are! It gives you the flexibility to watch your favorite shows anywhere! Whether you’re at home, in your bedroom, in your kitchen, or in your garage, having a warm drink in a coffee shop or breathing fresh air in the park, you can switch on a portable TV and start watching. If you are feeling too lazy in the morning you can just reach out for it. Flick it on and you can enjoy the latest TV buzz while in bed!

When you think about portable TVs, you usually have in mind an old device that it’s not so used anymore. But the portable TV has come a long way from the old CRT tubes of yesterday. New portable TVs are lightweight, small, handheld and easy to transport. All this is due to their new LCD screens and components. They come with built-in digital tuners and foldable antennas so you can watch over-the-air television signals. They can be powered from a wall jack and are equipped with lithium batteries. If you really enjoy watching TV, this is a very convenient device to have!

Why a portable TV should be a great device for seniors? Well, it’s all about the numbers. Research after research shows how much seniors enjoy watching TV!

What Exactly is a Portable TV?

A portable TV contains many of the same features of its large screen cousins, but it is handheld and it can be carried easily from one place to another, as they are lightweight and compact in size. Below, we have the main portable TV features.

Portable TV Main Features

Weight

Even the largest of these portable TVs weighs in at around 20kgs, or 44lbs.

Size

As mentioned before, the main feature of a portable TV is portability (as they are lightweight and compact in size). So how small they really are? Different consumers may have different ideas on what constitutes a ‘portable TV’. But in general, it is a smaller television set (typically available in screen sizes ranging from 6″ to 21″) designed with handles or reinforced casings. 

The size of a portable TV appropriate to your circumstances is likely to be dictated largely by where it is to be positioned, the number of people that are likely to want to watch it, and how often it needs to be moved from place to place. A handheld, 6″ portable TV screen is likely to be suitable for viewing by a single person, almost anywhere, but for a group of viewers a 12″, 14″, 17″, or larger screen may be more appropriate.

Note that the diagonal measurement of the screen, as is customary, means that a relatively small increase in the quoted screen size can produce a relatively large increase in the overall viewing area available; the 3″ difference between a 14″ and a 17″ screen for example, results in a 20% increase in viewing area!

Aspect Ratio

Related to the physical size of a portable TV screen is the concept of “aspect ratio”. Aspect ratio is the proportional relationship between the width of an image (or indeed, a screen on which an image is displayed) and its height, expressed as a ratio. Traditional television screens, for example, have an aspect ratio of 4:3, or 1.33:1, such that the image displayed is 4 units wide for every 3 units it is high, or almost square.

Modern portable TVs may, however, be designed to display true “widescreen” footage, shot with a wide-angle lens, with an aspect ratio of 16:9, or 1.78:1. In many cases, it is possible to select either a 4:3, or 16:9, aspect ratio on a portable TV, so that standard or widescreen pictures can be displayed correctly, without the appearance of black lines to the top and bottom (“letterboxing”) or to the left and right (“pillar boxing”) of the screen.

Connectivity

A portable TV is to be used in a domestic situation, it is unlikely that it will exist in isolation. Some portable TVs (known as “combi” or combination, portables) also include integral DVD or VCR (“Video Cassette Recorder”) components, which require no additional wiring or tuning and are inexpensive compared to the cost of buying the individual components separately.

Otherwise, you may want to connect digital devices such as DVD players, digital camcorders or games consoles, or you may want your portable TV to double as a computer monitor as some point. If this is the case you need to look for a range of connection interfaces (Composite, SCART, S-Video, VGA, etc.) appropriate to the devices that you wish to connect. A USB port, preferably latest specification USB 2.0, offering data transfer speeds up to 40Mbps can also be some of the small, handheld models include an optional GPS interface, for use with vehicle satellite navigation systems.

All of these portable TV’s will receive free broadcast OTA television using the provided antenna. But channel reception will vary depending on how far you are from the broadcast towers. You can use the built-in speakers or the headphone jack to listen to your favorite program.

Channel reception will vary depending on how far you are from the broadcast towers. You can use the built-in speakers or the headphone jack to listen to your favorite program.

Power

These portable TVs are capable of operating on rechargeable batteries for up to 6 hours. Moreover, many of these portable televisions come fully equipped with rechargeable batteries allowing for many hours of viewing. Furthermore, portable and handheld TVs offer detachable battery compartment, AC power adapter and a DC power adapter for vehicle use.

Energy Saving

Portable LED TVs are much slimmer and lighter than traditional CRT TVs, but also offer some advantages when compared with larger, flat panel TVs. Smaller screens mean that portable TVs draw less current, and are more energy efficient, and if you want to mount your portable TV on a wall for example, mounting brackets for smaller TVs are available at a fraction of the cost of those for larger models.

Extra common features

In addition, some of the portable and handheld TVs offer different features such as monaural earphone jack, removable display mounting pads, full function remotes, LED displays, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Portable TV Background

Late 70s

In the earliest days of portable TV technology, most of the models available were small black & white sets kept in children’s rooms or the kitchen. Power still had to come from a standard household outlet, limiting the actual portability factor.

Battery-powered televisions became available in the late 1970s and early 80s, but their power requirements often limited viewing time.

Multi-purpose ‘boom boxes’ occasionally offered a small television screen and a tuner capable of receiving television audio signals, thus starting the search for a practical portable TV system.

Late 80s

The next tangible advance in portable TV technology was the pocket-sized televisions produced by Casio and Sony in the late 1980s. A small headphone set provide privacy and other features such as radio tuners made these portable TV units appealing to those on the go. But the picture screen was difficult to watch and the casings were easily damaged by weather or owner neglect.

Today’s portable TV market benefits from the advances in LCD screen technology. Instead of a bulky cathode ray tube literally shooting electrons on a screen, LCD crystals use electronic charges to change individual pixels on a flat screen. In addition, vibrant color is possible through the addition of red, green and yellow pixels working in tandem. Moreover, the casing of a modern portable TV is built to withstand rough handling and wet weather conditions. LCD displays do not require as much power to operate, so battery life has improved dramatically. A portable TV unit may also be able to display DVDs or gaming programs.

Today

Today’s portable TV technology allows consumers to watch favorite shows through devices no larger than a old Sony Walkman CD player. The advent of LCD (“Liquid Crystal Display”) technology and the latest battery technologies (including “Li-Ion”) made these TVs much more similar in quality to the big ones.

Best Brands of Portable TVs

Several brands are well-regarded for producing high-quality portable TVs. However, the availability and reputation of brands can vary over time. Here are some reputable brands known for portable TVs:

• Tyler: Tyler specializes in creating user-friendly and stylish portable TVs, combining modern aesthetics with practical features for seamless entertainment.
• Supersonic: Supersonic stands out for its innovative designs and versatile portable TVs, offering an immersive viewing experience on the go.
• Axess: Axess is known for crafting compact and feature-packed electronics, including portable TVs, catering to convenience and functionality.
• RCA: RCA, a trusted name in electronics, delivers reliable and easy-to-use portable TVs with a focus on quality and affordability.
• GAEMS: GAEMS excels in crafting cutting-edge gaming and entertainment solutions, including portable TVs, providing a premium experience for enthusiasts on the move.

It’s essential to check the latest customer reviews, product specifications, and ratings to make an informed decision based on your specific requirements. Additionally, consider newer models and brands that may have gained prominence since my last update.

Benefits of Having a Portable TV for Seniors

• Flexibility: Seniors can enjoy their favorite shows from any room or even outside, giving them the freedom to choose where they want to watch.
• Independence: Portable TVs help seniors stay independent by letting them have their entertainment wherever they go, without being tied to a specific room.
• Comfort: With a portable TV, seniors can make a cozy and personalized spot for watching, whether it’s in a favorite chair, bedroom, or outdoors, making it more comfortable.
• Entertainment On the Go: Seniors can take their favorite shows on the road, making travel more enjoyable with entertainment right at their fingertips.
• Reduced Isolation: Portable TVs provide a source of connection to the outside world, helping seniors feel less isolated, especially if they spend more time at home.
• Emergency Information: In case of emergencies, having a portable TV ensures seniors can stay updated on important news and information, even if they’re not near a fixed television.
• Customizable Accessibility: Some portable TVs offer features like closed captioning and adjustable volume, making it easier for seniors with hearing or vision impairments to personalize their viewing experience.
• Variety of Content: Seniors can access a range of content, from news to movies and educational programs, keeping their minds active and entertained.
• Staying Active: Portable TVs encourage seniors to move around and create different viewing spaces, promoting physical activity and avoiding long periods of sitting.
• Ease of Use: Many portable TVs are designed to be simple with easy controls, making them accessible and straightforward for seniors to operate independently.

Best Portable TV available on the market right now

This list goes from the smallest to the largest recommended portable TV available on the market right now.

SuperSonic SC-195 7″ Portable TV

• Brand: Supersonic
• Display Technology: LCD
• Display Size: 7 inches (Available in other sizes 4″, 9″, 10″ and 14″)
• Weight: 1.26 pounds
• Power: Rechargeable lithium battery. This device comes with a lithium battery built into the device. There is no need for an external power source. Just simple charge and play!
• Run time while using the battery: Up to 3 hours run time on a full battery.
• Compatibility: SuperSonic Portable LED TV comes equiped with USB, AC/DC, and MMC inputs. This allows you to connect to your other media devices! Firestick, Roku, and Chromecast compatible.
• Features: a built-in digital TV tuner, rechargeable battery, and remote control to watch your favorite shows anywhere and anytime.

Check this item on Amazon.

Tyler TTV701 7″ Portable Widescreen LCD TV

Tyler TTV701 7″ Portable Widescreen LCD TV with Detachable Antennas, USB/SD Card Slot, Built in Digital Tuner, and AV Inputs

• Brand: Tyler
• Display Technology: LCD
• Display Size: 7 inches
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Power: 3 Way Power The portable television includes an AC adapter for home use, a DC adapter for automobile use, as well as a built in rechargeable lithium ion battery (2 AA batteries required).
• Run time while using the battery: Up to 2 hours run time on a full battery.
• Compatibility: Multiple Inputs The TTV701 includes : 1 x Coaxial Antenna Input 2 x AV inputs 1 x USB 1 x SD Card Slot The TTV701 is a fully featured portable television with multimedia support and RCA inputs (through AV adapter). Supported formats include : MP3, JPG, MPEG2_HD, MPEG4, MPEG4_HD,H.264, FLV, and MVC. The TTV701 includes a full band built in digital tuner that supports ATSC/NTSC. Crystal Clear Viewing TTV701 includes multiple antenna options so you always have the best reception, more channels, and a greater variety of programming.
• Features: Tyler TTV701 7′ LCD Television AC Adapter DC Adapter Full Function Remote (2) External High Power Antennas to boost signal AV Input Converter- for RCA input Removable display mounting pad Instruction Manual.

Convenience The TTV701 includes a standard 3.5mm earphone jack so you can enjoy all your favorite programming without disturbing others. For all other times, the unit includes a built in loudspeaker.

Check this item on Amazon.

Tyler TTV704-9 9″ Portable TV

• Brand: Tyler
• Display Technology: LCD
• Display Size: 9 inches
• Weight: 2.94 pounds
• Battery: Equipped with an AC adapter for home use, a DC adapter for automobile, and a built-in rechargeable Lithium ion battery.
• Run time while using the battery: 80 minutes.
• Compatibility: With multiple TV antenna options. It supports ATSC/ NTSC.
• Features: Equipped with AC and DC Adapter, USB/SD inputs for internal/external playbacks. (2) External High Power Antennas to boost signal. AV Input Converter for RCA input.You can also hook the mini LCD TV to your DVD player. Fully-functioning remote. Full Band Digital TV Tuner. Removable display mounting pad. Instruction Manual

This portable TV also fully support multimedia and RCA inputs through the AV adapter. Play your saved videos in MP3, JPG, MPEG2_HD, MPEG4_HD, H.264, FLV and MVC formats without any problems.

Check this item on Amazon.

Tyler TTV705-14 14″ Portable TV

• Brand: Tyler
• Display Technology: LCD
• Display Size: 14.1 inches
• Weight: 4.74 pounds
• Battery: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
• Run time while using the battery: Up to 4 hours run time on a full battery.
• Compatibility: HDTV supports up to 1080p with Dual Tuners ATSC and NTSC. Compatible with all your favorite devices: Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Firestick, and Slingbox
• Features: Built-in Stereo Speakers and Headphone Jack.
• HDMI,USB, SD Card Input Supports AVI, MOV, MPEG 1, MPEG 2, MPEG 3, MPEG4, XVID, AVC, MP4, H.264, HEVC(H.265), FLV, MKV, MP3, JPEG, WMV, HDMI, RMVB, AVI, MKY, 3GP

Crystal Clear Viewing TTV705-14 includes multiple input options so you always have the best reception, more channels, and a greater variety of programming. An included sucker antenna will allow you to receive local broadcasts (up to 15-mile range). While the HDMI port and RCA adapter will allow you to connect virtually any internet streaming device or gaming console. 2 Way Power Whether you are enjoying your favorite programming at home or in your backyard the TTV705-14 has you covered. The portable television includes an AC adapter for home use as well as a built-in rechargeable Lithium-ion battery.

Check this item on Amazon.

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