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Televisions

1 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of televisions — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

A television is a big shared gift, so it usually comes from a partner, a group of siblings, or parents helping set up a new home. The sets that get the most use fit a real spot: over the fireplace, on the kitchen counter, in a games room, or out on the patio. An outdoor television has become a popular choice for people who spend summer evenings on the deck. Before choosing, find out where it will live, how far away people sit, and what they plan to watch, whether that's hockey, streaming shows or video games. Measure the wall or stand, and check which streaming apps they already pay for.

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Televisions built for the patio or deck

An outdoor television is made to handle weather and bright light, with a sealed casing and a brighter screen than an indoor set. It suits someone who hosts backyard get-togethers, watches the game by the pool, or has a covered porch they already use a lot. Before buying, ask whether the spot is fully covered, partly shaded or in direct sun, since that changes what screen brightness makes sense. Check the temperature range it's rated for, especially for Canadian winters, and whether it needs to come inside in the off-season. Confirm there's a nearby outlet, decent Wi-Fi, and a solid wall or post for mounting.

  • Representative photo-style image of outdoor weather resistant television — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually over $100

    Outdoor weather resistant television

    Bring entertainment to the patio or backyard with this durable television, built to withstand various weather conditions.

How to choose televisions as a gift

  • Measure the wall space and the distance from the couch before settling on a screen size.
  • Ask what they mostly watch, since gamers, sports fans and movie lovers care about different features.
  • Check which streaming apps they use so the built-in smart system supports them.
  • For a surprise, confirm the room, the mounting plan and the outlet location with someone in the household first.
  • Count the HDMI ports if they have a game console, soundbar or cable box to connect.

Usually safe to skip

  • A huge screen for a small room usually overwhelms the space and ends up feeling awkward to watch.
  • An indoor set placed outside tends to struggle with glare, moisture and cold, and rarely lasts the season.
  • A second television for someone who didn't ask for one often sits in a closet with no spot to put it.

Questions people ask about televisions

Can a regular TV be used outside?
Indoor sets aren't built for moisture, temperature swings or bright daylight, so they often have trouble outdoors. An outdoor television has a sealed casing and a brighter screen made for patios and decks, which makes it the better fit for regular outdoor use.
What size TV should I buy as a gift?
Start with the distance between the seating and the screen, then the wall or stand space. A longer viewing distance suits a larger screen, while a kitchen or bedroom usually calls for something compact. Measuring first avoids a set that dominates the room.
Is a TV a good gift for a new homeowner?
It can be, especially for a family room, basement or backyard that doesn't have a screen yet. Check with a partner or family member about the room they're setting up, so the size and style match the space.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All televisions picks

Show:AllSpecific productsGift ideasBudget:AnyUnder $15$15–$25$25–$50$50–$100Over $100

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