Mark Cowan Technical Support Services
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A better way to watch

Smart TVs—and smart ways to keep yours.

Thinking about replacing your television? Start by checking what you already have. If the picture still looks good, a small streaming device may be all you need.

Your older TV may not need replacing.

A TV does not have to be “smart” to stream. If it has a compatible HDMI connection, you can usually add a Roku, Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, or Google TV device for streaming apps.

The same approach can help an older smart TV whose built-in apps have become slow or are no longer supported. The streaming device handles the apps while your TV continues to provide the picture.

  • What you need: An available HDMI input, internet service, a compatible streaming device, and the power supply or cables that device requires.
  • What it does not do: A streaming device will not repair a broken screen, fix a TV’s picture problems, or turn an HD screen into a 4K screen.
  • If there is no HDMI: Some older TVs may work with a converter, but picture quality, sound, and service compatibility vary. Ask Mark to check the connections before buying.
Compare streaming devices →Roku’s TV connection requirements ↗

Secondhand TVs

No secondhand TVs are listed yet. Ask Mark about availability, size, budget, and what you want to watch.

Ask about a used TV
What to check before buying used
  • View a bright and a dark picture. Look for lines, dim areas, dead pixels, and lingering images.
  • Test speakers, the remote, and the HDMI inputs you will use.
  • Confirm the stand, screws, remote, and power cord are included. Measure the full TV width and stand footprint.
  • Have the seller remove accounts and reset the TV. Check app support, or plan to use a separate streaming device.
  • Arrange safe transportation and check any return policy before paying.

New TV buying guide

Reviewed November 1, 2026 · Practical guidance, not stocked inventory or a ranking of every TV model.

For everyday viewing

Start with a good LED or QLED TV

Who it suits: News, daytime shows, and general family viewing when value matters.

Plain English: LED TVs use a backlight. QLED is a type of LCD/LED TV with technology intended to improve color; QLED and OLED are different.

Before buying: Compare the actual picture, screen reflections, and sound. The label alone does not tell you how good a specific model looks.

For a brighter room

Compare Mini LED options

Who it suits: People watching in a room with daylight or lamps.

Plain English: Mini LED uses many smaller backlights, often with separate dimming areas to control light across the picture.

Before buying: Brightness, glare handling, and side-angle viewing vary by model. Try a scene similar to what you watch at home.

For movies and dark-room viewing

Compare OLED options

Who it suits: Movie viewers who value deep blacks and strong contrast.

Plain English: OLED pixels light themselves and can turn off individually.

Before buying: Compare price, room brightness, and your viewing habits. Discuss long periods of static channel logos or screen graphics before choosing.

LG’s explanation of display types ↗
For comfortable, simple use

Choose the remote and menus too

Who it suits: Anyone who wants clear controls without switching between many remotes.

  • Try the remote: can you identify power, volume, mute, and input easily?
  • Check captions, voice guidance, text settings, and dialogue clarity.
  • Check the apps you actually use, not just the number advertised.
  • Remember you can add a familiar streaming device even to a new smart TV.
How large should the TV be?

Measure the space and viewing distance. TV size is measured diagonally; furniture must fit the TV’s actual width and stand. Try reading captions and menu text from a similar distance before choosing.

A larger picture may be easier to see, but bigger is not automatically better for every room. Check safe mounting and space for cables.

Samsung’s size and measurement guide ↗
What does 4K mean?

4K describes picture resolution—the amount of fine detail the screen can display. You need compatible content and connections to see its benefit. An older HD TV can still stream HD shows with a compatible device.

Do not replace a working TV only because a streaming device says “4K.” Many devices can output a lower resolution for an HD screen; confirm compatibility before buying.

The TV or streaming device is not the subscription. Internet and paid TV apps can have separate monthly costs. Check local channels, sports, and the total bill before canceling cable.

Let’s check your TV first.

Tell Mark the model, what you watch, and what is frustrating you. A photo of the connections can help determine whether a streaming device would do the job.

Ask Mark about my current TV

Call (951) 255-9814

Manufacturer links open in a new tab. Check exact connections, app availability, and current prices before purchasing.