YOLO TV Learning Center

7 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Outdoor TV for Your Backyard

June 11, 2024•6 min read

When the weather is perfect, there's nothing quite like enjoying your favorite shows, sports, or movies outside. But to do that, you'll need the right outdoor TV. Choosing the perfect outdoor TV can transform your backyard into an entertainment paradise. Here are seven essential tips to help you make the best choice

1. Understand the Importance of Weatherproofing

One of the most critical aspects of choosing an outdoor TV is ensuring it can withstand the elements. Outdoor TVs are specifically designed to be weatherproof, with sealed enclosures that protect against rain, snow, dust, and insects. When choosing an outdoor TV, look for models with an IP rating (Ingress Protection). The higher the rating, the better the protection. Ideally, an IP rating of at least IP55 is recommended for outdoor TVs to ensure durability and longevity in various weather conditions.

2. Consider Brightness Levels

Indoor TVs are not built to combat the sun's glare, but outdoor TVs are designed with higher brightness levels to provide a clear picture in broad daylight. When choosing the perfect outdoor TV, look for models with at least 700 nits of brightness. For areas with direct sunlight, a TV with over 1,000 nits will ensure that the screen remains visible and the picture quality is maintained.

3. Choose the Right Screen Size

7 Popular YOLO TV sizes (available from 115" - 317")

The size of your outdoor TV should match your viewing distance and the space available in your backyard. A common guideline is that you should sit about 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal size of the screen away from the TV. For instance, if you choose a 55-inch outdoor TV, the ideal viewing distance would be between 6.8 and 11.5 feet. Consider the layout of your outdoor space and choose a screen size that offers the best viewing experience without overwhelming the area.

4. Select the Appropriate Resolution

Resolution is key to a sharp, clear picture. While 4K resolution is becoming the standard for indoor TVs, it is equally important for outdoor TVs. Choosing a 4K outdoor TV ensures that you enjoy stunning picture quality, especially on larger screens where higher resolution can make a significant difference. Additionally, with more 4K content becoming available, your outdoor TV will be future-proof.

5. Connectivity with Your Home Automation System is Key

Home Automation is a key component to being able to connect with your TV from the palm of your hand. We utalize apps so you can control the brightness, and seamlessly manuver your TV from your cell phone or tablet. If you decide to integrate a home automation system such as Control 4 or Savant YOLO TVs video processor integrates well with those and so many more. With so many of our clients renting out their homes for short term rentals, AirBnB etc they have the peace of mind that they can control the volume, brightness and seamlessly work the TV from anywhere in the country.

YOLO TV client talks about controlling his TV from various countries

YOLO TV works a lot like a smart tv where we connect to offer you the convenience of streaming your favorite show and movies. YOLO connects with Apple TV, Roku, and so many more which in turn offer the compatibility with popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. Having a smart outdoor TV allows you to access a wide range of content easily and can turn your backyard into a multimedia hub

6. Evaluate Audio Quality and Options

Audio quality is often overlooked when choosing an outdoor TV, but it is crucial for an immersive viewing experience. Outdoor environments can be noisy, and standard TV speakers may not be sufficient. Our Rise and Rotate models come with the option to add speakers directly to the TVs while our standard TV’s do not come with the option of adding speakers but they integrate with any type of sound system you have and with the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities the options are endless.

7. Think About Installation and Placement

Proper installation and placement of your outdoor TV are essential for optimal performance and longevity. Since our outdoor TVs are daylight bright and can be seen even in direct sunlight you can put your TV in any viewing area of your choice but make sure your taking in all considerations such as what time of day you want to view your TV the most, your flow of seating areas in your backyard and if you want your TV to rotate. We offer rotation systems so you can manually turn your TV and lock it into place with a pin. This way you can turn your TV if you want to view it from your pickleball or basketball court or from your pool if needed. The options are endless and we would love to help you build the TV of your dreams so you can view it from multiple angles. Viewing angles, height and proximity are all considerations while choosing your TV and where to place it. “We help our clients select the best placement and installation options because each project is different and the options are endless” says Brian Bachman co-founder and Managing Partner at YOLO TV. “Wall mounting is one of our most popular installation types, but the Rise is gaining in popularity with the ability to be completely in ground or recessed models offered. Glare won’t be an issue because we do not add any glass or plexi glass to the surface of our TV’s. We will upon request but you don’t need it with this type of technology. You see TVs being used for advertising in Las Vegas that are at arms reach by hundreds of thousands of people waking past each day.

Examples of TVs on the Las Vegas Strip where hundreds of thousands of visitors walk past daily.

Choosing the perfect outdoor TV for your backyard involves careful consideration of various factors, from weatherproofing and brightness to screen size and audio quality. By following these seven tips, you can make an informed decision and create an outdoor entertainment area that will be the envy of your friends and family.

Enjoy the ultimate outdoor viewing experience with a TV that suits your needs and withstands the elements.

Don’t miss the opportunity to transform your outdoor living space into a haven of entertainment and relaxation. Discover why our YOLO outdoor TV is more than just a screen; it’s a lifestyle upgrade that will leave everyone talking about your home.

To explore how YOLO TV can help you create the ultimate outdoor living experience and enhance your property’s value, contact us today at [email protected] or call (866) 320-6548.