9 Top Smart TVs With Ambient Lighting: Ultimate Guide

Tired of the same old TV experience? Take entertainment to the next level with Smart TVs with ambient lighting. Imagine movie nights with the screen’s colors and effects spilling onto your walls, creating a more immersive atmosphere. This article explores the benefits of these TVs, from reduced eye strain to setting the perfect mood, and guides you through popular options, setup, and troubleshooting. Get ready to transform your living room into a captivating entertainment zone!

I. What is a Smart TV with Ambient Lighting?

Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Before diving deeper, let’s break down the key terms:

• Smart TV: A Smart TV is simply a TV with built-in internet connectivity, allowing you to access streaming services, browse the web, and use apps, all directly on your TV.
• Ambient Lighting: A technology that creates a soft glow around your TV, enhancing the viewing experience and potentially reducing eye strain.

Now, let’s see how these two come together:

Combining Smart TVs and Ambient Lighting

Imagine a smart TV equipped with tiny LED lights positioned around the edges or back panel. These lights can change color and brightness based on what’s happening on the screen. As you watch a movie with a vibrant sunset scene, the ambient lighting might project warm orange hues onto your wall, extending the visual experience beyond the TV frame.

This creates a more immersive and engaging viewing experience, drawing you deeper into the content. Additionally, some TVs offer the flexibility to adjust the lighting based on your preferences, allowing you to create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion.

II. How Ambient Lighting Works?

Now that you understand the concept of Smart TVs with ambient lighting, let’s explore the technology behind the magic:

1. Understanding LED Technology

The key ingredient for ambient lighting is Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). These tiny, energy-efficient lights come in various colors and can be programmed to change color and brightness electronically. They’re perfect for creating the dynamic and customizable lighting effects desired in this context.

2. Different Types of Ambient Lighting on Smart TVs

There are three main types of ambient lighting found in Smart TVs:

A. Edge Lighting

This is the most common type, where LEDs are positioned along the edges of the TV’s back panel. They project colored light onto the wall behind the TV, creating a subtle halo effect.

B. Full Array Local Dimming

This technology uses a grid of individual LEDs behind the TV screen. These LEDs can be dimmed or brightened independently, allowing for more nuanced lighting effects that match the on-screen content. For example, dark scenes will have dimmed backlighting, while bright scenes will have increased brightness, creating a more realistic and immersive experience.

C. Bias Lighting

This is an external solution, where an LED light strip is placed behind the TV, facing the wall. It creates a gentle glow that reduces the contrast between the bright screen and the dark room, potentially reducing eye strain.

III. Who Should Consider Buying a Smart TV with Ambient Lighting?

Imagine movie night: the lights are dimmed, the popcorn is ready, and you’re settling in for an immersive cinematic experience. But what if you could take things a step further? Enter Smart TVs with ambient lighting, transforming your living room into a truly captivating environment.

Here’s why you might consider joining the ambient lighting bandwagon:

1. Movie and TV Enthusiasts

Ever wished the action on screen extended beyond the TV? Ambient lighting creates a more immersive atmosphere, drawing you deeper into the story by projecting colors and effects onto your wall. Imagine the fiery glow of a dragon fight or the cool blue hues of an underwater scene, all seamlessly blending into your living space.

2. Gamers

Feeling the strain after intense gaming sessions? Subtle ambient lighting changes can improve focus and potentially enhance reaction time by subtly highlighting in-game elements. It can also create a more visually engaging and atmospheric gaming environment.

3. People who watch TV in low-light conditions

Staring at a bright screen in a dark room can strain your eyes. Ambient lighting acts like a gentle buffer, reducing the contrast and creating a more eye-friendly viewing experience, especially for extended periods.

4. Design-conscious individuals

Who says your TV can’t be a style statement? Even when not in use, ambient lighting can add a touch of modern elegance to your living space, transforming your TV into an eye-catching centerpiece.

IV. Popular Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

This section highlights a few popular Smart TVs with ambient lighting options, categorized by budget:

A. Budget-Friendly Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Budget-Friendly Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

1. TCL 55S535

• Description: A 55-inch Full HD LED TV with edge lighting and basic smart features.
• Features: Built-in Roku TV, HDR compatibility.
• Screen size: 55 inches
• Price Range: $300-$400
• Pros: Affordable, user-friendly interface, decent picture quality for casual viewers.
• Cons: Limited screen resolution, basic ambient lighting features.
• Why it’s a good choice: Great option for budget-conscious buyers who want to experience the benefits of ambient lighting without breaking the bank.

2. Hisense 50A7100F

• Description: A 50-inch Full HD LED TV with edge lighting and built-in Fire TV.
• Features: Hands-free voice control with Alexa, decent sound quality.
• Screen size: 50 inches
• Price Range: $250-$350
• Pros: Affordable, hands-free voice control, decent sound quality.
• Cons: Limited screen resolution, basic ambient lighting features.
• Why it’s a good choice: Ideal for budget-minded users who prioritize voice control and sound quality, along with basic ambient lighting.

3. Insignia 50F3011PW

• Description: A 50-inch Full HD LED TV with edge lighting and a user-friendly interface.
• Features: Built-in Fire TV, simple remote control.
• Screen size: 50 inches
• Price Range: $200-$300
• Pros: Very affordable, user-friendly interface, easy to set up.
• Cons: Limited screen resolution, basic ambient lighting features.
• Why it’s a good choice: Excellent option for budget-conscious users who prioritize affordability and simplicity, with a touch of ambient lighting.

B. Mid-Range Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Mid-Range Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

1. Samsung QN85A Series

• Description: A series of 50-inch to 85-inch QLED TVs with edge lighting and Samsung’s Ambient Mode.
• Features: Quantum dot technology for enhanced colors, object tracking sound, multiple screen size options.
• Screen size: 50″ to 85″
• Price Range: $700-$1500
• Pros: Excellent picture quality, immersive sound, various screen size options to choose from.
• Cons: More expensive than budget options, ambient lighting might not be as advanced as higher-end models.
• Why it’s a good choice: A great balance between price, features, and picture quality, with Samsung’s Ambient Mode for an enhanced viewing experience.

2. Sony X85K Series

• Description: A series of 43-inch to 85-inch LED TVs with Full Array Local Dimming and ambient lighting optimization.
• Features: TRILUMINOS Display for wider color range, Dolby Vision HDR support, multiple screen size options.
• Screen size: 43″ to 85″
• Price Range: $600-$1200
• Pros: Excellent picture quality with improved contrast, diverse screen size options, good value for the price.
• Cons: Might not be the brightest option compared to some QLED TVs, ambient lighting customization might be limited.
• Why it’s a good choice: Offers great picture quality with local dimming, good value for the price, and decent ambient lighting features.

3. LG C2 Series

• Description: A series of 48-inch to 83-inch OLED TVs with advanced edge lighting and LG’s Gallery Mode.
• Features: Self-lit OLED display for perfect blacks and infinite contrast, Dolby Atmos support, various screen size options.
• Screen size: 48″ to 83″
• Price Range: $1000-$2500
• Pros: Unmatched picture quality with perfect blacks, excellent viewing angles, diverse screen size options.
• Cons: Most expensive option in this category, OLED technology is susceptible to burn-in if not careful.
• Why it’s a good choice: For users who prioritize the absolute best picture quality and immersive viewing experience, with LG’s unique Gallery Mode for ambient lighting.

C. Premium Powerhouse Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Premium Powerhouse Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

1. Philips OLED+ 937

• Description: A 65-inch or 77-inch OLED TV with Philips’s Ambilight technology on all four sides.
• Features: Perfect blacks with OLED technology, four-sided Ambilight for immersive lighting, powerful sound system.
• Screen size: 65″ or 77″
• Price Range: $2500 and above
• Pros: Top-tier picture quality with OLED, most advanced Ambilight experience, excellent sound quality.
• Cons: Very expensive, large screen sizes might not be suitable for all spaces.
• Why it’s a good choice: For users who demand the absolute best in picture quality, immersive lighting, and overall entertainment experience.

2. Samsung QN900B Series

• Description: A series of 43-inch to 98-inch Neo QLED TVs with advanced mini-LED backlight and innovative Object Tracking Sound Pro+.
• Features: Next-generation Neo QLED panel with improved brightness and blooming control, innovative sound technology, various screen size options.
• Screen size: 43″ to 98″
• Price Range: $2000 and above
• Pros: Excellent brightness and HDR performance, innovative sound system, diverse screen size options.
• Cons: Very expensive, larger screen sizes might be impractical for most users.
• Why it’s a good choice: Ideal for users who prioritize cutting-edge picture quality, immersive sound, and a large screen option, with Samsung’s advanced ambient lighting features.

3. Sony Z9G Series

• Description: A series of 83-inch and 85-inch 8K LED TVs with Full Array Local Dimming Pro and X-Wide Angle technology.
• Features: 8K resolution for exceptional detail, powerful picture processor for upscaling content, wide viewing angles.
• Screen size: 83″ or 85″
• Price Range: $3000 and above
• Pros: Unmatched resolution for future-proof viewing, excellent picture processing, wide viewing angles.
• Cons: Extremely expensive, limited screen size options, 8K content is still scarce.
• Why it’s a good choice: For users who prioritize the absolute highest resolution and future-proof technology, with Sony’s advanced ambient lighting features.

V. Preparing Your Smart TV for Ambient Lighting

Before diving into the immersive world of ambient lighting, it’s crucial to ensure your Smart TV is compatible with this technology. Here’s how to check:

1. Consult your TV’s manual

This is the most reliable source of information. Look for keywords like “ambient lighting,” “ambilight” (for Philips TVs), or similar terms in the manual’s specifications or features section.

2. Search online resources

Many tech websites and online retailers list TV specifications, including details about ambient lighting capabilities. Search for your specific TV model and browse the product description or specifications page.

3. Visit the manufacturer’s website

Most TV manufacturers have detailed product pages on their websites. Navigate to your TV model’s page and check the features list or specifications section for information on ambient lighting.

Once you’ve confirmed your TV’s compatibility, you’re ready to explore the installation process!

VI. Installation Process for Ambient Lighting

The setup process for ambient lighting can vary depending on whether your TV has built-in lighting or requires an external solution. Here’s a general overview:

1. Built-in ambient lighting

1. Locate the settings menu: This is usually accessed by pressing the home button on your remote and then selecting the settings icon.
2. Navigate to the ambient lighting options: The specific name and location of these settings might differ between brands, but look for terms like “ambient lighting,” “ambilight” (for Philips TVs), or similar options.
3. Enable and customize: Once you find the relevant settings, enable ambient lighting and explore the available customization options. These might include:
   • Color: Choose from pre-set modes or adjust the color manually.
   • Brightness: Set the desired level of light intensity.
   • Effects: Select specific lighting effects, like “pulse” or “fade,” depending on your preference.

2. External ambient lighting

1. Assemble the external lighting solution: This typically involves attaching LED strips to the back of your TV using the provided adhesive tape or mounting brackets. Refer to the product’s instructions for specific assembly steps.
2. Connect the lighting to a power source: Most external lighting solutions use a USB cable that can be plugged into your TV’s USB port or a separate power adapter.
3. Download and install the companion app (if applicable): Some external lighting solutions come with dedicated apps that allow for further customization and control of the lighting effects directly from your smartphone or tablet.

VII. Fine-Tuning Your Ambient Lighting Experience on Your Smart TV

Unleash the full potential of your Smart TV’s ambient lighting by customizing it to your preferences and content. Here’s how to create a truly personalized viewing experience:

1. Accessing Ambient Lighting Settings

The first step is to access your TV’s settings menu. While the exact steps might vary slightly between brands, the general process is:

• Press the Home button on your remote control.
• Look for the Settings icon and press it.
• Navigate through the settings menu using the directional buttons on your remote.

Here’s where things might differ depending on your TV brand:

• For brands like Samsung: Look for options like “Ambient Mode” or “Lighting.”
• For brands like Philips: Search for “Ambilight” settings.
• For generic terms: Look for keywords like “bias lighting” or “ambient lighting.

2. Customizing Lighting Preferences

Once you’ve located the ambient lighting settings, it’s time to personalize your experience! Here are some common customization options you might encounter:

1. Brightness

• This adjusts the overall intensity of the ambient lighting.
• Tip: For movies or cinematic content, a brighter setting can enhance immersion. For gaming or watching TV in a well-lit room, a dimmer setting might be more comfortable for your eyes.

2. Color

• Choose from pre-set color modes like “Movie,” “Music,” or “Game,” each offering a specific color profile optimized for the content type.
• Some TVs allow for manual color adjustments. Experiment with different colors to find what suits your mood and preferences.

3. Syncing Options

• Music Sync: Sync the lighting to the rhythm of your music, creating a visually captivating soundscape.
• Content Sync: This feature (available on select models) dynamically adjusts the lighting colors based on the on-screen content, further enhancing immersion.
• Wall Color Adjustment: Calibrate the ambient lighting to match your wall color for a more seamless and natural look.

4. Additional Tips

• Many TVs allow you to adjust the lighting zone control. This allows you to fine-tune the lighting in different sections of the screen, creating a more dynamic and immersive experience.
• Explore any advanced settings offered by your TV. Some models might have additional customization options like light delay or response time adjustments.

By following these steps and exploring the available options, you can personalize your ambient lighting experience to elevate your entertainment and create the perfect atmosphere for every viewing occasion.

VIII. Customizing Ambient Lighting Settings

Unleash the full potential of your Smart TV’s ambient lighting by exploring the built-in features and venturing into the world of third-party options. Here’s how:

1. Built-in Features

Most Smart TVs with ambient lighting offer a range of built-in features to personalize your viewing experience:

• Brightness: Adjust the overall intensity of the lighting. Brighter settings are ideal for movies, while dimmer options work well for gaming or watching TV in a bright room.
• Color: Choose from pre-set color modes like “Movie” or “Game” for optimized color profiles. Some TVs allow for manual color adjustments, letting you tailor the experience to your mood and preferences.
• Syncing Options (on select models):
  • Music Sync: Creates a visually captivating lightshow that dances to the rhythm of your music.
  • Content Sync: Dynamically adjusts the lighting colors based on the on-screen content, further enhancing immersion by reflecting the on-screen action (e.g., vibrant colors for scenes with explosions, calmer tones for serene landscapes).
  • Wall Color Adjustment: Calibrates the lighting to match your wall color for a more seamless and natural look.
• Lighting Zone Control (on select models): Fine-tune the lighting in different sections of the screen, creating a more dynamic experience. Adjust the intensity or color in specific zones to personalize the effect further.

2. Third-party Apps and Accessories

While built-in features offer a great starting point, you can explore further customization options:

• Third-party Apps: Some Smart TV platforms allow downloading apps that offer additional control and customization options for your ambient lighting. These apps might provide unique lighting effects, pre-sets for specific genres, or even allow integration with smart home devices.
• Compatible Accessories: If your TV lacks built-in lighting, or you want even more control, consider external solutions like:
  • Light bars: These are LED strips that can be mounted behind your TV, often offering extensive color customization and potential compatibility with third-party apps for even greater control.
  • Bias lighting kits: These provide a gentle glow behind the TV, reducing eye strain and creating a more immersive viewing experience.

IX. Troubleshooting Ambient Lighting Issues

Troubleshooting Ambient Lighting Issues

Encountering issues with your Smart TV’s ambient lighting can be frustrating. Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through troubleshooting common problems and getting your lights back in sync with your entertainment.

A. Common Issues and Solutions

1. Connection Problems

• Symptoms: The ambient lighting doesn’t turn on or connect properly.
• Solutions:
  • Check cables: Ensure all cables are securely connected to your TV and any external lighting components.
  • Compatibility: Verify that any external lighting solution is compatible with your TV model.
  • Restart devices: Power cycle your TV and any external lighting components by turning them off and unplugging them from the power source for 30 seconds before restarting them.
  • Consult the user manual: Refer to your TV’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps related to connection issues.

2. Malfunctioning Lights

• Symptoms: Individual lights within the ambient lighting system are not working or flickering excessively.
• Solutions:
  • Consult the user manual: Refer to your TV’s manual for troubleshooting steps specific to malfunctioning lights. This might involve resetting the lighting settings or checking for firmware updates.
  • Update software: Outdated software can sometimes cause functionality issues. Check for and install any available software updates for your TV.
  • Contact customer support: If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, contact your TV manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance.

3. Syncing Errors

• Symptoms: The ambient lighting doesn’t seem to be syncing properly with the on-screen content or music.
• Solutions:
  • Update software: As with other issues, outdated software can sometimes affect syncing functionality. Check for and install any available software updates for your TV.
  • Adjust settings: Ensure the syncing option is enabled in your TV’s ambient lighting settings.
  • Content compatibility: Some syncing features might not work with all types of content. Check if the content you’re watching is compatible with the specific syncing option you’re trying to use.
  • Consult the user manual: Refer to your TV’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps related to syncing issues.

B. Additional Tips

• If you’re still facing issues after trying these solutions, consider searching online forums or communities specific to your TV model. You might find solutions or workarounds shared by other users.
• Remember to be patient and persistent when troubleshooting. It might take some time and trying different solutions to identify the root cause of the problem.

By following these steps and referencing the resources mentioned, you should be able to get your Smart TV’s ambient lighting back up and running smoothly, enhancing your viewing experience once again.

X. Benefits of Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Benefits of Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Smart TVs with ambient lighting are revolutionizing the way we experience entertainment by going beyond the traditional screen. Here’s a look at the various advantages these TVs offer:

1. Enhanced Viewing Experience

Ambient lighting extends the colors and effects beyond the screen, creating a more immersive and cinematic atmosphere. Imagine vibrant action scenes bleeding onto the surrounding walls, or calming nature documentaries painting your living room with soothing hues. This expanded visual canvas elevates your viewing experience, making you feel like you’re truly part of the action.

2. Reduced Eye Strain

The stark contrast between a bright TV screen and a dark room can cause eye fatigue. Ambient lighting bridges this gap by providing a soft glow around the TV, reducing the contrast and allowing your eyes to relax. This is especially beneficial for extended viewing sessions, making it easier to enjoy your favorite movies and shows without feeling discomfort.

3. Improved Immersion

Certain TVs offer content sync features, where the ambient lighting dynamically adjusts based on the on-screen content. This means vibrant colors and action scenes trigger corresponding lighting effects, further drawing you into the world on the screen. Imagine explosions lighting up your room or chase sequences leaving trails of color on your walls – it’s a truly immersive experience.

4. Creating a Mood

Gone are the days of simply turning the TV on and off. Ambient lighting allows you to set the mood for your viewing experience. Choose calming blues and greens for a relaxing movie night, or switch to vibrant reds and oranges for an energetic gaming session. You can even personalize the lighting to match the theme of the content you’re watching, creating a truly customized atmosphere.

5. Reduced Eye Fatigue

While similar to “reduced eye strain,” it’s worth reiterating the reduced eye fatigue benefit. The gentle ambient lighting creates a more comfortable viewing environment, minimizing the strain on your eyes, especially during long viewing sessions. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are sensitive to bright screens or those who spend a lot of time watching TV.

6. Improved Aesthetics

Ambient lighting adds a touch of modern elegance to your living space, transforming your TV into a design element even when it’s not in use. The subtle glow can create a unique ambiance and enhance the overall aesthetic of your room.

7. Potential Sleep Improvement

The sudden brightness change when turning off the TV can disrupt your sleep cycle. Ambient lighting offers a smoother transition by gradually dimming the light as you power down, creating a more relaxing environment that can help you fall asleep easier.

8. Enhanced Focus for Gamers

For gamers, subtle lighting changes triggered by in-game events can subtly highlight specific elements, potentially improving focus and reaction time. This can be particularly advantageous in fast-paced games where quick reflexes are crucial.

9. Potential for Increased Comfort

The gentle glow of ambient lighting can create a more relaxing and comfortable viewing environment. This subtle light can be especially beneficial for creating a cozy atmosphere for movie nights or casual viewing.

10. Complements Smart Home Integration

Some TVs with ambient lighting can sync with other smart home devices, such as smart lights. This allows you to create a cohesive connected experience, where your entire living room adjusts to enhance your viewing pleasure. Imagine the TV lighting seamlessly blending with your smart lights, creating a truly immersive and personalized atmosphere.

In conclusion, Smart TVs with ambient lighting offer a multitude of benefits, from enhancing your viewing experience and reducing eye strain to creating the perfect mood and potentially improving sleep. If you’re looking to elevate your home entertainment to the next level, a Smart TV with ambient lighting might be the perfect choice.

XI. Key Takeaways for: Smart TVs with Ambient Lighting

Key Takeaways

1. Immersive Experience: Expands visuals beyond the screen, drawing you deeper into the content.
2. Reduced Eye Strain: Soft glow bridges the contrast between bright screen and dark room, making viewing more comfortable.
3. Content Sync: (on select models) Lighting dynamically adjusts based on on-screen content, further enhancing immersion.
4. Mood Setting: Create the perfect atmosphere by choosing lighting colors that match your mood or the content you’re watching.
5. Reduced Eye Fatigue: (repeated for emphasis) Gentle lighting minimizes strain on your eyes, especially during extended viewing sessions.
6. Improved Aesthetics: Adds a touch of modern elegance to your living space, transforming your TV into a design element.
7. Potential Sleep Improvement: Gradual dimming upon turning off the TV creates a relaxing environment that can aid sleep.
8. Enhanced Focus for Gamers: Subtle lighting changes can highlight in-game elements, potentially improving focus and reaction time.
9. Potential for Increased Comfort: Gentle glow creates a more relaxing and comfortable viewing environment.
10. Complements Smart Home Integration: (on select models) Syncs with other smart home devices for a cohesive connected experience.

XII. Conclusion

Conclusion

Smart TVs with ambient lighting are revolutionizing the way we experience entertainment. From creating a more immersive and comfortable viewing experience to setting the perfect mood and potentially improving sleep, these TVs offer a multitude of benefits. If you’re looking to elevate your home entertainment, a Smart TV with ambient lighting might be the perfect choice.

XIII. Additional References

• Samsung
• Sony
• Vizio
• LG
• TCL

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