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The Best Car Tvs To Keep Entertainment Alive On Road Trips
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Car road trips with family are usually fun-filled and offer ample bonding time. Since playing board games isn’t an option while driving, you can let the kids enjoy watching their favorite cartoons on a TV. These rear-seat entertainment systems keep your kids occupied and entertained, so they don’t get annoyed with the long journey. A TV in the car is a welcome addition for most people and not just children alone. Adults can also binge-watch their favorite TV shows while going on a camping trip with their friends. These portable devices can liven up the entire in-car experience for you and your family. But choosing the right TV for your car can be challenging given the market’s abundance of incredible options. This guide will help you find the right fit for your vehicle through detailed reviews of the finest car TVs of 2023.
Car TVs: A Buying Guide
Since every car doesn’t come with integrated multimedia systems, you may want to get a portable monitor for your car. However, getting your hands on a car TV that works without breaking the bank can be tricky. This guide will equip you to find the top car TV to suit your needs.
What to Look for When Buying a Car TV
Screen size
Portable TVs are available in different sizes, and you can get one according to your preference. Typically, a car TV screen should be around seven to nine inches diagonally. This screen size provides an appropriate viewing experience from up to three feet away.
Audio
For a quality media experience, you need a TV with good audio quality. Some TVs for your car may come with built-in speakers, while others offer a headphone jack. You can also get both options in one TV, so you can choose the one you prefer.
Runtime
You need to look for sufficient runtime for a rechargeable car TV. Although you can recharge them via car chargers, having a TV with enough charge to last an entire car ride is better. Get a TV for your car that lasts at least 4-5 hours on a single charge.
Difference Between Factory Installed and Aftermarket Car TVs
Factory-installed
Factory-installed TVs come pre-installed in the car from the manufacturer. These are relatively more expensive than aftermarket ones but come with a warranty. So, if anything malfunctions, buyers get a refund, repair, or replacement. Since the manufacturer installs these TVs, they are highly compatible with the vehicle, match its décor, and work seamlessly.
Aftermarket
An aftermarket car TV is one you install in your car externally. These aren’t integrated into the car’s infotainment system and may or may not complement the décor. However, these devices also run seamlessly while being significantly more inexpensive than the factory ones. Furthermore, if you buy a portable TV, you will have a more personalized experience.
Types of Car TVs
In-dash TV
An in-dash TV is perfect for solo travelers and cars with limited backseat room. These TVs are fitted in the car’s center console in the front. In-dash TVs are not suitable for new drivers because they can be distracting.
Headrest TV
These are the most common car TVs. They are installed in the driver and front passenger seats’ back headrests. Such TVs are only watchable from the rear passenger seats, so you’re not breaking any laws by watching TV while driving.
Flip down TV
These televisions are mounted on the car’s roof above the passenger seats. You can get a better viewing experience with flip-down TVs, but they require more space for installation.
Rearview mirror TV
Some cars also have TVs in their rearview mirrors. These are easy to install, making the mirror half-screen and half-mirror. However, the location of these TVs is distracting and may affect driving.
Portable TV
Portable TVs do not have to be fitted in the car and provide the most personalized experience. You can use them while sitting anywhere in the vehicle as long as they are plugged in.
Connectivity Options for Car TVs
Not every car TV has the same connectivity options, but you can get the following:
Bluetooth
Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly connect your TV to your headphones or speakers. You can also connect another device to your car TV to play content from that device.
HDMI
These cables allow you to connect the car TV directly to your laptop. This way, you can access the content available on your computer.
SD card
If your content is in portable form, you can use the SD card slot or a USB driver to access it on your car TV.
USB
USB connectivity is the most commonly available mode of accessing content from your smartphone or laptop on the car TV.
Top Picks
Best Overall:
Leadstar Car Tv
Excellent Picture Quality:
A Ainavi Car Tv
Solid Battery Life:
Fangor 10.5'' Car Tv
Easy To Use:
Wonnie Car Tv
Budget-Friendly:
Fangor 7.5’’ Car Tv
Reviews
Best Overall
Leadstar Car Tv
Pros
Cons
Features a removable self-bracket for easy adjustments
How easy a car TV is to install depends on the TV’s type. For instance, portable TVs don’t need any installation, while in-dash TVs need professional assistance to be installed.
Do wireless devices work with car TVs?
Wireless devices, like keyboards, mice, headphones, and speakers, may work with car TVs if the device and TV both have Bluetooth connectivity.
Which media formats are supported by car TVs?
Most car TVs support different media formats, including video, audio, and images. For each type of media, file formats vary between different TVs. But the most commonly supported formats are JPEG, MP4, MP3, MPEG, VOB, WAI, AVI, RMVB, MKV, and M4V.
Can I watch live TV on my car TV?
Yes, you can watch a live local broadcast on your car TV. However, you will need an HDTV antenna as well as a TV tuner.
Are car TVs reliable?
This will be dependent on the specific car TV, as every product will differ. If your car TV is durable and from a reputable brand, it should last for years to come. However, if your car TV is not made well, it will be less durable and more prone to issues. Moreover, make sure to properly install your car TV to enhance the longevity of the product.
