Looking for a hybrid Smart monitor (work + TV)

Jemma01

Hi

I work from home, and ordinarily, I would only be looking for a work monitor. However, I want something that would double up as a TV for in case my parents visit (e.g. needs a remote and be a smart monitor). I have no plan or desire to buy a TV, and I'm not a gamer.

I'm wondering what some of you use and how you feel about it after using it for a while. I'm not looking for anything bigger than 32". If you are to upgrade the one you have, what would you consider? What brands have you dealt with that deliver value and decent customer service?

My budget is up to 1K, hoping for something that is up to speed with the market tech and would last me a lifetime (I'm not someone who upgrades very often; I wait until they give up 😁. The only reason I'm buying one now is to accommodate my parents in case they ever over, and I have nothing to keep them entertained!)

Thoughts? I've not been in the market for one before (the one I have is a donation 😁). I googled quite a bit for what I should be looking for, but there's far too many mixed reviews.

Thanks

JSmithy45AD

A Samsung Smart Monitor M7 or M8 maybe sounds likely, and a lot lower than your grand limit. I've not tried either myself though.

Vitor

I'd focus on getting a monitor which meets your needs and then use a Firestick on HDMI port for TV for parents. The phosphors and image processing on TV and computer monitors are quite different.

RumRat

I've been using a Samsung M8 smart monitor for a couple of years now, Having TV capability in the office has come in handy many a time.

It's a 32" and I've never had a moments bother with it. Great for PC work and TV streaming. Of course it's not connected to Freeview, but everything is there via the various streaming apps. I believe the price has come down recently and there are some deals to be had.

carly

I have samsung M7 which functions well in both scenarios. I have it linked to a Sky Q mini box which covers all my needs .

Cisco001

I have a 32" TV and connected to a PC. It is too large to use as a monitor.

I believe 27" is the right size for work.

Jemma01

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82031196#Comment_82031196

27" would be too small for a TV :(

I have 21" monitor and it annoys me, I need on average 3 to 4 active windows to complete a task. So I'm looking forward to a spacious view that I can quickly navigate through. It would frustrate ppl when I share, that's for sure!

Vitor

TBH once you get used to a 49" Curved monitor there's no going back.

Jemma01

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82031451#Comment_82031451

right? My heart wanted one of those, but as a TV it's not great, esp for 5x5+ living room.

Thanks to everyone for providing their feedback, I ended up getting the Samsung M9 so it stays technically relevant for another 10/15 years to come. 32" is not too big, it feels normal.

Cisco001

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82031238#Comment_82031238

21" is a bit small. My current WFH set up is 14" laptop screen + old 24" TV as monitor. I occasionally feel the 24" too small.

I did hook to 32" TV one time, but my neck get tired after work…