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The best outdoor TVs for summer streaming
With the weather warming up and Memorial Day sales dropping prices down, now is the time to get your outdoor area ready for entertaining. And one of the easiest ways to do so is to find the best outdoor television.
Also: The best 4K TVs
An outdoor TV is a fantastic bonus when you spend a lot of time in your backyard or on your roof -- it allows you to make the most of warm weather. To help you decide which TV models make sense for your space (and investment), I've considered various models' weatherproofing status, brightness display, sound quality, streaming service options, and cost to round up the best options available ahead of your summer streaming.
- Bright display
- Fantastic reflection deterrence
- Durable build
- Expensive
- Mediocre audio
Samsung Terrace Smart TV tech specs: Screen size: 55 inches | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 120 Hz | Waterproofing: IP55
The Samsung Terrace Smart TV has my vote for the best outdoor TV overall. The 55-inch 4K QLED display is specifically designed for the outdoors, and the anti-glare screen prevents the sun from interrupting your entertainment. Plus, IP55 waterproofing protects the device from the elements. The TV also has several popular services and apps, like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, and YouTube already included.
Also: The best Samsung TVs
You can connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to use the browser function and surf the web. In addition, the Samsung Terrace Smart TV is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Bixby, so you can save precious time with the help of a smart home assistant. The device also features customizable settings, like film mode and a wide viewing angle, so you can optimize your viewing experience no matter the occasion.
- Withstands high temperatures
- Affordable
- Roku benefits
- Not ideal for full sun
- Heavy
Element Electronics Partial Sun Outdoor Roku TV tech specs: Screen size: 55 inches | Resolution: 4K UHD | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Waterproofing: IP55
With the Element Electronics Partial Sun Outdoor Roku TV, you can set up your television anywhere there is partial sun. The 55-inch display has 4K resolution and HDR10 technology, offering four times the pixels of Samsung's Full HD TV. The tempered, anti-glare screen is twice as bright as indoor models, so it can handle any bright environment, like your back patio on a sunny summer day.
It can also withstand the elements in other ways. The tempered glass is four times stronger than normal glass so you can feel safe knowing it will have the protection it needs when inclement weather arises.
The Element Roku also has a IP55 rating, meaning it's weatherproof against water, dirt, humidity, and even snow. Additionally, this TV can withstand any temperature as low as -4°F and as high as 104°F, so if you can bear those temps, year-long viewing is, in fact, a possibility.
- Anti-glare screen
- Excellent display
- Reasonable price
- Smaller display
Furrion Aurora Full Sun Smart Outdoor TV tech specs: Screen size: 43 inches | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Waterproofing: IP54
The Furrion Aurora Full Sun Smart 4K LED Outdoor TV is a versatile outdoor TV that you can wall-mount or place anywhere in the sun or shade. The anti-glare screen boasts excellent clarity with LED technology, an anti-glare LCD screen, and 4K resolution.
Plus, built-in speakers and 350-nit brightness immerse you in entertainment regardless of the weather. It also features RangeXtend external antennas for a strong signal to connect to Wi-Fi.
The Furrion Aurora Smart Outdoor TV is also weatherproof with an IP54 rating -- so it can face down snow, rain, UV rays, dirt, and humidity. Even the remote is waterproof, in case you leave it outside. At 43 inches, this model is a bit smaller than other outdoor TVs on this list, but it comes with a one-year warranty to secure your purchase.
- Fantastic colors
- 4K UHD
- Smart TV connectivity
- Pricey
- Not waterproof
Kuvasong Smart Outdoor TV tech specs: Screen size: 55 inches | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Waterproofing: IP65 -- dust-proof, but not waterproof
The Kuvasong Smart Outdoor TV has a large 55-inch LED screen that incorporates 4K resolution with UHD HDR technology. The anti-glare screen has extremely high brightness at 1500 nits, so the screen is meant to shine in the shade.
Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi, you'll also have access to several streaming services, including Netflix, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. However, this TV is meant for covered outdoor areas, so it's not waterproof like other outdoor TV models on this list, but it is fine to be exposed to partial sun -- meaning it has to be under an awning or cover of some sort.
On this front, it does accommodate multiple outdoor living room setups. It comes with swiveling and tilting TV mount and five input models, including Bluetooth, aux, coax, and optical input.
- Excellent soundbar
- Easy connectivity
- Warranty included
- Lacks integrated smart features
- Expensive
Seura Shade Series 2 Weatherproof TV tech specs: Screen size: 65 inches | Resolution: 4K | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Waterproofing: IP56
The Seura Shade Series 2 Weatherproof TV features a 65-inch display, which is larger than most other outdoor TVs. Plus, Seura claims the display is 35% brighter than competitors' devices. The TV features Wi-Fi connectivity, plus an integrated browser for easy Internet access.
The Seura Shade Series 2 Weatherproof TV boasts a 4K Ultra HD LED display with a weatherproof design that can handle every season all year long. It's rated to handle temperatures from -24℉ to 140°F for excellent flexibility, so you don't have to worry about leaving it outside. Plus, it includes a waterproof remote for easy and convenient control.
It also supports streaming devices by way of compatible inputs for your Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, and more. The only drawback is you'll have to pair it with a wireless speaker as the TV doesn't come with internal ones. That said, if you pair it with the Seura 80W soundbar, you'll experience exceptional sound quality.
What is the best outdoor TV?
The Samsung Terrace Smart TV may not be the cheapest option on our list but users agree -- it is the best outdoor TV you can buy right now. The generous screen is capable of shining in full sun, too, so you can place it wherever it fits best in your outdoor space.
To see how the best outdoor TVs compare, here is an overview of each model broken down by price, display type, and screen size.
Outdoor TV | Price | Display type | Screen size |
Samsung Terrace Smart TV | $2,998 | Full sun | 55 inches |
Element Electronics Partial Sun Outdoor Roku TV | $1,168 | Partial sun | 55 inches |
Furrion Aurora Full Sun Series 4K UHD | $2,000 | Full sun | 43 inches |
Kuvasong Smart Outdoor TV | $1,699 | Full shade | 55 inches |
Seura Shade Series 2 | $4,599 | Partial sun | 65 inches |
Which outdoor TV is right for you?
It depends. Do you need a TV that's waterproof, or will your new device be placed on a covered patio? These are my expert recommendations to help you find the best outdoor TV for your entertainment needs and price point.
Choose this outdoor TV... | If you want... |
Samsung Terrace Smart TV | The best overall option with a robust display and fantastic reflection deterrence. It also has a bright display and IP55 durability. |
Element Electronics Partial Sun Outdoor Roku TV | An all-around pick that's affordable and withstands temperatures as hot as 104 °F. This partial sun model is anti-glare and also comes with Roku benefits. |
Furrion Aurora Full Shade Series 4K UHD | A TV that can handle the sun's full power, offers an anti-glare screen, and is at a reasonable price point. It also boasts an IP54 waterproof rating. |
Kuvasong Smart Outdoor TV | The brightest outdoor TV with 4K UHD, smart TV connectivity, and beautiful colors. It also comes with a swiveling and tilting TV mount to accommodate for multiple outdoor living spaces. |
Seura Shade Series 2 | Exceptional sound for your outdoor TV with easy connectivity and waterproofing. Plus, it has an integrated browser for easy internet access. |
How did I choose these outdoor TVs?
In choosing the best outdoor TVs, I considered several factors, including weatherproof status, brightness display, sound quality, streaming service available, and cost.
- Weatherproofing: Outdoor TVs are put into one of three categories: full sun, partial sun, or covered. Full sun means that these TVs don't have to be exposed to shade at all. Typically, the brighter the screen, the more robust the weatherproofing. Partial sun has to be under an awning or some sort of cover, as a dimmer screen doesn't require as much weatherproofing. Finally, covered means you have to have it under an overhang or protected area where it won't be exposed to direct sun or get rained on.
- Brightness: A brighter display, usually 700 nits or more, is better able to handle direct sun than those with lower nits, which are typically best for indoor living rooms or shaded areas.
- Sound: I considered the speaker quality on each television because outdoor noise can easily compete with your TV when outside.
- Streaming services: Many outdoor TVs have streaming services integrated, like Netflix, Prime Video, and HBO Max.
- Cost: I looked for outdoor TVs that suit a variety of budgets.
What kind of outdoor TV do I need for my space?
Our chart can help you determine what kind of outdoor TV you need for your space.
Type of outdoor TV | Appropriate areas |
Shade | Gazebos, screened-in rooms, sunrooms, verandas |
Partial sun | Patios, pergolas, porches |
Full sun | Backyard, BBQ area, poolside, public spaces |
When you're shopping for an outdoor TV, keep in mind its two-digit IP, also known as an Ingress Protection rating. The first digital signifies how well a TV holds up to dust, dirt, and insect intrusion. The second digital signifies how well the TV handles moisture exposure from humidity, rain, or snow.
The first digit rating ranges from one to seven. One doesn't protect much whereas seven can take on more punishing conditions. Meanwhile, the second digit rating ranges from one to nine, with one offering no moisture protection and nine offering the most. Paying attention to these two numbers can help you pick out the right model for your environment.
Does an outdoor TV need to be waterproof?
Outdoor TVs are built to withstand the elements, including wind and rain. However, since it's still an electronic device, your outdoor TV should sit under some sort of enclosure, like a pergola or awning to avoid damage from torrential downpours or built-up snow.
You'll also want to be mindful of other equipment that could harm your TV. The rule of thumb is to keep your TV at least six feet away from pools, fireplaces, and grills. And you want to face it in the north direction to prevent it from receiving direct sunlight.
You'll also want to choose an outdoor TV with a strong screen. That way, it can withstand impact from smaller debris it might come in contact with during a storm.
Are there alternative outdoor TVs worth considering?
In my search, these five picks represented the best outdoor TVs. However, since variety is the spice of life, here are some suitable alternatives to consider:
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Sunbrite Veranda 2 Series
This outdoor TV delivers 4K HDR and is 50% brighter than indoor TVs, so you'll receive a vivid picture perfect for the outdoors.
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Hisense ULED 4K Premium 55U6H Quantum Dot QLED
Featuring Quantum Dot, this outdoor TV delivers more accurate and richer color than regular LED TVs.