What You Didn’t Know About Choosing the Right TV – Key Factors and Terms Explained | The Ultimate Guide

Hey there, future TV viewer (or maybe serial binge-watcher or next-level gamer — we’re not judging)! So, you’re in the market for a shiny new TV, huh? It’s exciting but can also feel a smidge overwhelming with all those buzzwords flying around. 4K, OLED, HDR — it’s like alphabet soup! And then there’s the age-old question: “How big is too big for my living room?” No worries; we’ve got your back.

Choosing the right TV is kind of like finding the right pair of jeans. It needs to fit just right, make you feel amazing, and — let’s face it — not completely empty your wallet. But where do you start? With so many options, tech lingo, and those pesky sales stickers everywhere, things can get confusing, fast.

In this guide, we’re breaking down all the nitty-gritty details into bite-sized chunks, so you can strut out of the store (or click that online checkout button) with the confidence of someone who knows their stuff. Let’s get this TV party started!

Screen Size

Alright, my entertainment-savvy friend, let’s dive into one of the BIG questions (pun intended): just how big should your TV be? It’s not just about getting the biggest screen you can find, or the one that’ll impress your friends and neighbors the most. Nope, it’s about finding the perfect fit for your space and viewing style.

The Goldilocks Principle: Not too small, not too huge, but juuust right. Sure, a cinema-sized screen sounds epic, but if you’re two feet away, you might as well be sitting in the front row of a movie theater (hello, neck cramps). Conversely, squinting at a screen that’s too small isn’t doing anyone any favors.

The Ideal Viewing Distance: You ever hear of the “1.5 to 2.5 times” rule? It’s the sweet spot. Basically, your ideal TV size should be somewhere between 1.5 to 2.5 times the distance from where you’re sitting. So, if you’re chilling on the couch 10 feet away, aim for a TV between 60 to 85 inches. Easy, right?

Room Dynamics Matter: Think about the room’s layout. Windows everywhere? Maybe glare could be an issue. Small, cozy space? A giant screen might feel overwhelming. You want your TV to complement your space, not dominate it.

A Quick Hack: Grab some painter’s tape and map out potential screen sizes on your wall. This way, you can visualize what feels best without the commitment (or the heavy lifting).

So, before you get wooed by that massive screen or charmed by a deal that seems too good to pass up, remember: size matters, but bigger isn’t always better. Let’s make sure your next TV fits into your life like your favorite pair of comfy socks.

Display Resolution

Okay, strap in, because we’re about to dive into the world of pixels, and trust me, it’s not just a game of “more is better.” When we chat about display resolution, we’re really talking about how many tiny little dots (a.k.a. pixels) are packed into that beautiful screen of yours. Imagine these pixels as the tiny artists painting the masterpiece that is your favorite show or the latest blockbuster hit.

The Basics – What’s in a Number?: You’ve probably heard terms like 720p, 1080p, or 4K. These aren’t just random figures plucked from the sky. They give you an idea of how crisp and clear your TV picture will be. Think of it like switching from regular glasses to HD vision — suddenly, you’re spotting details you never knew were there!

HD (720p) and Full HD (1080p): The OGs of the high-definition world. Perfect for casual viewing, especially if you’re not super fussed about seeing every single freckle on an actor’s face.

4K or UHD (Ultra High Definition): With four times the resolution of Full HD, this is where things get reeeally clear. Ever wanted to count the individual blades of grass in a nature documentary or see every bead of sweat on an athlete? This is your jam.

8K: The big kahuna. It’s mind-blowingly detailed, but also a bit of a show-off. The truth? Not a lot of content is available in 8K just yet, and it might be a tad overkill for many folks (and many wallets).

Reality Check: Remember, while higher resolution offers a clearer picture, after a certain point, our eyes might not even notice the difference, especially on smaller screens. So, don’t feel pressured to max out just for the sake of bragging rights.

In the end, choosing the right resolution is a bit like choosing the right sprinkle count on a donut. Sure, more can be dazzling, but it’s all about what makes your viewing experience the sweetest. So, find your happy medium, grab some popcorn, and prepare for a visual treat!

Display Types

Pop quiz! What do LEDs, OLEDs, and QLEDs all have in common? If your answer is “They’re all things I’ve heard of but have no idea what they mean,” then bingo, you’re in good company. Let’s decode these acronyms and figure out which one might just steal the show in your living room.

LED (Light Emitting Diode):

• What It Is: The crowd-pleaser. LEDs are the most common type of TV out there. Imagine a huge electronic Lite-Brite screen, but fancier.
• Perks: Energy-efficient, wallet-friendly, and available in a bunch of sizes.
• But Also: While they offer solid picture quality, they might not always win the “best in show” when compared to some of its fancier cousins.

OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode):

• What It Is: The diva of the TV world. Unlike LEDs, each pixel provides its own light — this means killer black levels and contrast.
• Perks: Stunning picture quality, sleek designs, and can pull off some mind-bending vibrant colors.
• But Also: A little pricier, and there’s chatter about screen burn-in (though modern models are getting better at handling this).

QLED (Quantum Dot LED):

• What It Is: Think of this as LED’s rich cousin who studied abroad. Developed by Samsung, these TVs use quantum dots in tandem with LED backlighting.
• Perks: Super bright displays, vibrant colors, and no risk of burn-in.
• But Also: While they’re dazzling in many ways, they might not achieve the same level of black as OLEDs.

Mini-LED and Micro-LED:

• What They Are: The new kids on the block. They use teeny-tiny LEDs for backlighting, which gives better control over brightness and dark areas.
• Perks: Combines the best of LED and OLED tech for some impressive visuals.
• But Also: Still pretty new, so they come with a premium price tag.

Choosing a display type is like picking a flavor at a gelato shop. Sure, some might seem fancier or more exotic, but there’s no wrong choice as long as it tickles your taste buds (or in this case, delights your eyeballs). Go with what feels right for your vibes and budget, and let the TV binging commence!

Refresh Rate

Alright, get ready to refresh your knowledge (see what I did there?) on… well, refresh rates! Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Do I really need to care about this?” And while you’re not going to be quizzed on it later, it’s definitely one of those under-the-radar specs that can elevate your viewing game to MVP status.

What the Heck is Refresh Rate?:

• In Simple Terms: It’s how often your TV updates the picture every second. Picture it as flipping through a super-fast animated flipbook.

The Common Suspects:

• 60Hz: The basic option. It does the job for most regular TV shows and movies, but action-packed scenes or sports events might feel a smidge blurrier.
• 120Hz: This is where things get smoother than a freshly ironed shirt. Especially handy for fast-moving scenes or when you’re deep into gaming realms where every millisecond counts.
• 240Hz: The crème de la crème. While it’s ultra-smooth, it might be overkill for many folks (and content).

Don’t Get Tricked: Some brands throw around terms like “effective refresh rate” which sounds super fancy but can be a bit misleading. Stick to the basics and look for the native refresh rate to get the real scoop.

Gaming Galore: If you’re big into gaming or tend to watch a lot of action films or sports, investing in a higher refresh rate can be a game-changer. But, if you’re more of a “chill with a rom-com or nature documentary” kind of person, a standard rate will probably suit you just fine.

In essence, the refresh rate is a bit like the rhythm of a good song. You might not always notice it, but when it’s off, it can throw the whole groove out of whack. So, find your tempo, match it to your viewing style, and groove on with your screen-loving self!

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High Dynamic Range (HDR)

Alright, party people, time to dive into the world of color, contrast, and all things visually dynamic! Enter HDR, or High Dynamic Range. Think of it as the secret sauce that makes your favorite movies and shows pop with colors so rich, you’ll wonder if you’ve been watching TV in grayscale all your life.

HDR in a Nutshell:

• Elevator Pitch: HDR amps up the contrast, offering brighter brights, darker darks, and a boatload more colors in between. It’s like going from a basic box of crayons to that deluxe set with the built-in sharpener.

Flavors of HDR:

• HDR10: The standard bearer. Most 4K TVs and streaming services support it, making it the most common HDR format out there.
• Dolby Vision: The overachiever of the HDR world. It takes what HDR10 does and dials it up a notch. Movies in Dolby Vision? It’s like visual poetry.
• HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma): Designed for live broadcasts. Not as common in the streaming world, but keep an eye out if you’re big into live TV.
• HDR10+: Think of this as HDR10’s slightly more sophisticated sibling. It’s dynamic, meaning it can adjust its settings on the fly for optimal picture quality.

Content is Key: Having an HDR-capable TV is only half the battle. You also need HDR content to really see what all the fuss is about. Luckily, streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime are churning out HDR content like it’s going out of style.

Real Talk: Not all HDR is created equal. Sometimes, a TV might boast HDR compatibility, but the actual brightness might fall short. If HDR is your jam, look for TVs that are “Ultra HD Premium” or “Dolby Vision” certified for the real-deal experience.

In the great tapestry of TV tech, HDR is that vibrant thread that weaves everything together into a clearer, more colorful picture. So, whether you’re marveling at sunsets on a travel show or catching every detail in a dark, moody drama, HDR’s got your back. Bring on the visual feast!

Connectivity & Ports

Alright, let’s venture into the behind-the-scenes territory of your TV. No, not the secret life of your remote batteries, but the back panel of your TV – the place where all your devices come to mingle! This isn’t just where your TV gets its power; it’s the hub that connects your entire entertainment system.

HDMI – The Crowd Favorite:

• Why It’s Hot: These are like the universal remotes of ports. HDMI handles both video and audio, making it perfect for game consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices.
• Numbers Game: Most TVs these days have at least 2-3 HDMI ports, but if you’re gadget-crazy, you might want even more. Also, keep an eye out for HDMI 2.1, especially if next-gen gaming is your scene. It supports higher refresh rates and resolutions.

USB – The Handy Helper:

• Plug & Play: Perfect for watching movies from a flash drive, or maybe even powering that fancy streaming stick.
• Power Tip: Some USB ports can even charge connected devices. Handy, right?

Ethernet Port – Old School Cool:

• Stable & Steady: While Wi-Fi is all the rage, a good old-fashioned wired connection via Ethernet can offer a more stable streaming experience. Especially useful for those 4K movie nights!

Audio Outputs – Music to Your Ears:

• Optical & Coaxial Outputs: Ideal for connecting to soundbars or advanced audio systems.
• Headphone Jack: For those nights when you want to dive into a movie without waking up the entire household.

Other Connectors – The Supporting Cast:

• Composite & Component Inputs: These are becoming rarer, but they’re useful if you’ve got older equipment like some DVD players or gaming consoles.
• RF Connector: For hooking up cable, satellite, or an antenna.

Smart TV – Built-In Brainpower:

• If your TV can connect directly to the internet, welcome to the world of smart TVs! From Netflix to YouTube, it’s all at your fingertips, no extra devices are required.

The back of your TV is like the ultimate party spot. It’s where everything comes together. So, make sure it’s equipped to host all your favorite gadgets and gizmos. After all, nobody wants to be constantly unplugging and replugging devices. Let’s keep the party rocking without any hiccups!

Audio Quality

Alright, sound check, 1, 2, 1, 2! Now that we’ve got the picture down pat, let’s not forget the unsung hero of any cinematic experience: the audio. Because let’s be real, watching a car chase or a heart-wrenching romantic scene just isn’t the same if the sound feels like it’s coming out of a tin can.

Built-in Speakers – The Base Camp:

• Standard Sound: Most TVs come with built-in speakers that are totally fine for your average viewing. Think of them as the PB&J of TV audio: simple, reliable, but not super gourmet.
• Downsides: As TVs have slimmed down (we see you, supermodel-thin screens), there’s less room for powerful speakers. Sometimes, it’s a bit of a sacrifice of sound for style.

Soundbars – The Upgrade:

• Boosted Audio: These sleek slabs of sound magic can seriously up your audio game. Perfect for those who crave more oomph but don’t want a room filled with speakers and cables.
• Variety is the Spice: From basic models to those with subwoofers or even Dolby Atmos support, there’s a soundbar for every ear (and budget).

Home Theater Systems – Go Big or Go Home:

• The Full Shebang: For the audiophiles and movie buffs, a dedicated home theater system offers an immersive experience. It’s like bringing the cinema right into your living room.
• Space & Setup: They deliver the best sound, hands down, but require more space and a bit of setup expertise. Worth it? For some, absolutely.

Audio Tech Jargon – The Need-to-Knows:

• Dolby Atmos: This is the Beyoncé of surround sound. It adds height to the sound spectrum, making it feel like audio is coming from all around, even above!
• DTS:X: Another form of 3D sound. Like Dolby Atmos but without requiring specific speakers for overhead audio.
• Bluetooth: For those moments when you want to stream that killer playlist directly from your phone to the TV.

Consider the Room:

• Your room’s acoustics play a huge part. Big, empty spaces can make sound echo, while a room full of soft furniture can dampen it. Sometimes, it’s not just about the tech but also where it’s placed!

At the end of the day, sound is half the story. Whether you’re hanging onto every word of a nail-biting drama or jamming out to a live concert, the right audio setup can make all the difference. So, tune in, turn up the volume, and let’s make some noise!

Smart Features & User Interface

Let’s get brainy with it! In today’s wild world of tech, your TV might just be smarter than that last trivia night champion. (You know the one.) But, not all smart TVs are created equal. It’s not just about being clever; it’s about being user-friendly. Let’s dive into the land where your TV goes beyond just channels and volume.

What Makes a TV “Smart”?

• In the Know: A smart TV connects to the internet, giving you access to streaming services, apps, and sometimes even a web browser. It’s like your phone and TV had a baby, and it’s brilliant.

Operating Systems – The TV’s Brainpower

• WebOS, Tizen, Roku TV, Android TV, and more: Each brand usually has its own flavor of an operating system. Think of it as the personality of your TV. Some are quirky, some are straight-laced, and others are just downright fun.

App-tastic!

• The Key Players: Most folks stick to the big names: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and so on. But the beauty of a smart TV? The world (or the app store) is your oyster. Dive deep and find niche apps that suit your fancy.
• Updates & Support: Just like your smartphone, apps on smart TVs get updates. Make sure the TV brand has a good track record for supporting and updating its software and apps.

Voice Assistants – Talk to the Screen

• “Hey Google!”, “Hi Alexa!”, or “Hello, Bixby!” Many smart TVs come integrated with voice assistants. Handy for when you can’t find the remote, want to check the weather, or are just feeling too lazy to type.

Cast & Mirror – Send it to the Big Screen

• With features like Chromecast built-in or Apple AirPlay, you can easily throw content from your phone or laptop straight to your TV. Perfect for impromptu photo slideshows or YouTube rabbit holes.

User Interface – The Look & Feel

• Navigating should be smooth sailing, not a trek through the jungle. Some interfaces are clean and intuitive, while others… well, they might test your patience. If possible, give the TV’s interface a test drive before buying.

Connectivity with Other Smart Devices

• Some smart TVs can seamlessly integrate with smart lights, thermostats, or security cameras. It’s like having a command center right from your couch.

Remember, it’s called a smart TV for a reason. It should make your life easier, entertain you in new ways, and maybe even impress your friends a little. So, pick wisely, tap into those features, and let your TV do more of the heavy lifting. Smart, right?

Price & Warranty

Alright, grab your wallets and let’s talk turkey: the moolah, the greenbacks, the dough! When it comes to TVs, the price tag can swing more than a pendulum at a hypnosis convention. But remember, it’s not just about how much you spend, but what you’re getting in return. So, let’s break it down without breaking the bank.

Price Ranges – From Thrifty to Swanky

• Budget-Friendly: Great news! You don’t have to drop a fortune to get a decent TV. Plenty of models out there deliver good quality without the hefty price tag. Just keep in mind, you might miss out on some of the fancier features.
• Mid-Range: This is where you get more bang for your buck. Often, these TVs balance quality and features nicely, without going overboard.
• High-End: For the tech aficionados and luxury lovers, this is the sweet spot. Think state-of-the-art tech, pristine displays, and sound so good you might think you’re at a live concert.

You Get What You Pay For… Mostly

• While it’s true that pricier TVs generally offer better quality and features, it doesn’t mean you can’t find a gem in a lower price range. Do your homework, check reviews, and compare specs.

Sales & Deals – The Bargain Hunt

• Black Friday, Cyber Monday, end-of-year sales, oh my! If you can wait, holding out for a sale might just snag you a fantastic deal.

Warranty – The Safety Net

• Standard Warranty: Most TVs come with a one-year warranty, covering parts and labor. Sounds good, but always read the fine print!
• Extended Warranty: Sometimes it’s worth the peace of mind, especially if you’re investing in a pricier model. Just make sure you understand what’s covered.
• Third-Party Warranties: Outside companies offer these, and they might provide broader coverage. But again, always, always read the details.

Cost of Ownership

• Beyond the initial purchase, consider potential costs like electricity usage (especially if you’re a binge-watcher) or subscriptions to streaming services. It all adds up!

Brand Reputation

• Some brands are known for reliability, while others might have flashier features. Do a bit of digging, see what real users are saying, and find a brand that aligns with your priorities.

Investing in a TV can be like buying a car: exciting, a bit daunting, and definitely a commitment. But armed with knowledge (and maybe some savvy sale-shopping skills), you can find the perfect match for your budget and needs. So, happy hunting, and may the price be ever in your favor!

Energy Efficiency & Environmental Impact

Hey there, Captain Planet! While we’re diving deep into the wonders of television tech, let’s not forget our beloved blue-and-green marble. It’s all fun and games until your energy bill arrives looking like it’s been working out at the gym. Plus, if you’re eco-conscious (and let’s face it, we all should be), you’ll want to know the environmental footprint of your new rectangle of joy.

Energy Star Rating – The Gold Standard

• The Badge of Honor: TVs with this label meet strict criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for energy efficiency. It’s like giving your TV a gold star for being an eco-friendly overachiever.

Watts Up with That?

• Power Consumption: Check the watts. Lower is leaner! OLED and bigger screens generally consume more, while LED LCDs are often more energy-efficient.
• Standby Mode: Even when off, TVs can draw power. Look for models that use less than 1 watt in standby.

Lifespan – Long Live the TV

• Investing in a durable TV isn’t just great for your wallet; it’s a thumbs up for the planet. Less frequent replacements mean less electronic waste. So, go for quality and think long-term!

Recycle & Disposal – The Circle of Life

• When it’s time to bid adieu to your old TV, don’t just dump it. Many components can be recycled. Some brands even have take-back programs. It’s like sending your TV to a fancy retirement village instead of the junkyard.

Eco Modes & Settings

• Some TVs come with special settings that adjust brightness or turn off the screen during radio play. These little tweaks can reduce energy consumption. So, go on, give ’em a try!

Manufacturing & Shipping Impact

• If you want to get super eco-nerdy (and why wouldn’t you?), consider the environmental impact of manufacturing and shipping. Brands that prioritize sustainability often share this info. Knowledge is power, and in this case, less power!

Accessories & Peripheral Devices

• Think about the other devices connected to your TV. Soundbars, game consoles, streaming devices – they all consume energy. Opt for energy-efficient choices across the board, and your planet (and wallet) will thank you.

Your TV can be more than just a portal to other worlds; it can be a statement about how you care for this one. So, make choices that are kind to the environment, and you can binge-watch with a clear conscience. After all, saving the planet and catching up on your favorite shows? That’s what we call a win-win!

The Final Considerations & Making the Leap

Okay, deep breath, champ. We’ve journeyed through the mystical forests of screen sizes, climbed the mountains of resolutions, and even took a dip in the eco-friendly waters. But before you take the grand plunge and grab that shiny new TV, let’s wrap up with some parting wisdom.

Room & Décor – Fashion Meets Function

• Aesthetic Vibes Sure, the TV’s a technological marvel, but how does it fit with your room’s style? From sleek stands to wall-mounts, consider how the TV will harmonize with your space’s aesthetic.

Futureproofing – The Crystal Ball Gaze

• Technology is a swift stallion. Will your TV keep pace? While no one can predict the future (if you can, call me?), opting for a set with up-to-date specs can keep it relevant longer.

Reviews & Recommendations

• Don’t just take my word for it! Dive into reviews, ask friends, and maybe even poke around some forums. Knowledge is power, and the TV tribe online is teeming with it.

In-Store Test Drive

• Even in this digital age, there’s merit in an old-fashioned store visit. Seeing (and hearing) a TV in person can give you a clearer idea of what you’re getting into.

Return Policy & Customer Support

• Life’s unpredictable. Maybe the TV doesn’t fit right, or perhaps you’re having second thoughts. Ensure there’s a reasonable return policy and that the brand’s customer support isn’t MIA when you need them.

Trust Your Gut

• Stats and specs are fabulous, but don’t forget to tune into your intuition. If a TV feels right and ticks most of your boxes, it probably is right!

Taking the Leap

• Once you’ve done the homework, crunched the numbers, and visualized that cinematic glow in your living room… go for it! Grab that remote, dive into a new world of entertainment, and welcome the newest member of your tech family.

There you have it, my TV trailblazer! The winding road of television terrain is before you, beckoning with its pixelated promise. With this guide in hand and a spring in your step, venture forth and find that screen of your dreams. And remember, it’s not just a purchase; it’s an adventure. Happy viewing!

Terms and Acronyms to Know

Alright, strap in, because we’re about to blast off into the thrilling world of TV jargon! It might sound like everyone’s speaking a secret tech language (maybe we are), but fear not! I’ve got your decoder ring right here. Let’s demystify these fancy terms and acronyms so you can impress your pals and maybe even that smarty-pants salesperson.

4K, 8K – Resolution Revelry

• These numbers represent the TV’s resolution. 4K = roughly 4,000 pixels across. 8K? Yep, around 8,000. More pixels = sharper images. Simple math, right?

OLED & QLED – The Dynamic Duo

• OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes): Here, every pixel emits its own light. Result? Rich colors and true blacks.
• QLED (Quantum-dot Light Emitting Diode): Samsung’s brainchild. It’s all about using quantum dots to enhance color and brightness.

HDR – High Dynamic Range

• Think of HDR like your TV’s secret sauce. It amps up contrast, making whites whiter, blacks blacker, and every shade in between pop!

HDMI – The Connector King

• High Definition Multimedia Interface. A fancy way of saying “that slot where you plug in your game console, Blu-ray player, or streaming device.”

Refresh Rate – Speedy Gonzales

• Measured in Hertz (Hz), it’s how often the TV updates the picture. 60Hz is standard, but 120Hz or more can make action scenes smoother than a jazz radio host’s voice.

Dolby Atmos & DTS:X – Sound Sorcery

• These are types of surround sound tech. They create an immersive audio experience, making it feel like that helicopter is actually zooming over your head.

Smart TV – The Brainy Bunch

• Not just a regular TV, but an internet-connected one! Stream shows, browse the web, or even order pizza without leaving your couch.

Local Dimming – Light Magic

• This feature adjusts the backlight in different parts of the screen based on the scene. Dark scenes get darker, bright scenes shine. It’s like your TV’s trying to set the mood for movie night!

Input Lag – Gamer’s Delight

• Crucial for gamers. It’s the time it takes for your button press (on a controller) to show up on the screen. Lower is better unless you like losing. No judgment.

Bezel – Frame or Foe

• The frame around your TV’s screen. Thinner bezels mean more screen space and a sleeker look. Go on, let that screen art shine!

UHD – Ultra High Definition

• Another term for 4K. Because why use one term when you can confuse folks with two?

So there you have it! You’re now equipped with a TV terminology toolkit that’s ready for action. The next time someone throws a random acronym at you, just toss it right back with confidence. Go on, flaunt that newfound knowledge, and let your inner tech guru shine!

Ride Off Into the Televisual Sunset

Well, fellow screen explorer, here we are, standing at the edge of the vast TV universe. From pixel-packed plains to the high peaks of HDR, we’ve journeyed through it all, one acronym at a time. Feeling more enlightened? I sure hope so!

Remember, choosing a TV isn’t just about the techy talk; it’s about finding that sweet spot where magic meets movie nights and where pixels paint your favorite stories. It’s your window to countless worlds, from dragons’ lairs to deep space. It’s about feeling the rush during the final seconds of a sports game and holding your breath during that movie climax.

Keep this guide handy, share it with pals, or maybe even gift-wrap it for someone diving into their own TV quest. And while stats and specs are fabulously fun (especially with all our snazzy terms), always let your own needs, space, and, heck, even your heart, lead the way.

Now, with remote in hand and popcorn at the ready, dive into those brilliant worlds of color, sound, and imagination. Here’s to countless hours of couch-cozy cinematic bliss, spellbinding series, and endless adventures!

So long, TV traveler! May your streams be ever smooth, and may your screen always be just the right kind of bright. Until next time, happy watching!