Digital signage is one of the most powerful tools in a business‘s marketing and communications arsenal. Far more than just a replacement for old-fashioned printed signs, digital signage leverages the latest display and networking technologies to deliver dynamic, targeted, and interactive content that captures attention and drives engagement.
A digital signage TV is the centerpiece of any successful signage deployment. But with so many models and features to consider, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll break down the top smart TV options for digital signage in 2024 and share expert tips for creating effective, impactful signage that delivers real results.
The Unstoppable Growth of Digital Signage
The global digital signage market was valued at $21.49 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $38.23 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.8%.[^1^] Several factors are driving this rapid adoption:
- Declining hardware costs make large digital displays increasingly affordable
- High-speed networking enables cloud-based content delivery and remote management
- Sophisticated software tools simplify content creation and scheduling
- Advancements in display technology (e.g. OLED, microLED) enable more visually striking installations
- Growing focus on customer experience fuels demand for personalized, interactive content
In a recent survey of 100 retailers, 80% had implemented digital signage and 73% said it has increased sales, with an average sales lift of 24%.[^2^] Digital signage is particularly well-suited for:
- Retail showrooms and shop windows
- Malls, airports, stadiums, and other large venues
- Corporate offices and campuses
- Schools and universities
- Museums and entertainment attractions
- Restaurants, cafes, and quick-service chains
- Banks, hospitals, government offices, and other public-facing services
What Makes a Great Digital Signage TV?
When evaluating smart TVs for digital signage, there are several key features and specifications to look for:
Display Technology and Picture Quality
The foundation of any great digital signage TV is a gorgeous, high-definition display. The latest models use Quantum Dot (QLED) or Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) technology to achieve stunning levels of brightness, contrast, and color accuracy that make content pop, even in challenging lighting conditions.
For maximum visual impact and flexibility, look for a display with at least 4K Ultra HD resolution (3840 x 2160). Some premium models now offer 8K resolution (7680 × 4320), enabling even more pixel density and pristine detail. High Dynamic Range (HDR) support is also essential for expanded contrast and color range.
To ensure content is clearly visible from all angles, choose an LED-backlit LCD panel with In-Plane Switching (IPS) or Vertical Alignment (VA) technology, which maintain consistent brightness and color off-axis. For the highest pixel density and near-infinite contrast, cutting-edge OLED displays are worth the investment.
| Specification | Good | Better | Best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Full HD | 4K UHD | 8K UHD |
| Brightness (typical) | 350 nit | 700 nit | 1500+ nit |
| HDR Support | No | HDR10 | HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Contrast Ratio | 5000:1 | 7000:1 | 1,000,000:1 (OLED) |
| Color Gamut | 72% NTSC | 90% DCI-P3 | 100% DCI-P3 |
Processing Power and Software
Smooth playback of dynamic signage content requires robust processing capabilities. Look for a smart TV with a multi-core CPU and GPU that can handle 4K video and complex HTML5 animations without stuttering or freezing. AI-powered upscaling and image processing can also enhance lower-resolution content.
On the software side, choose a TV with a flexible and user-friendly smart signage platform. Samsung‘s Tizen, LG‘s webOS, Android TV, and FireOS offer varying degrees of native signage functionality, app compatibility, live data integration, and remote management tools. More sophisticated signage features are often available via upgraded commercial models or external media player hardware.
| Platform | Operating System | Key Signage Features |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Tizen | MagicInfo CMS, automatic scheduling, mobile control |
| LG | webOS | SuperSign CMS, screen sharing, Wi-Fi connectivity |
| Sony | Android TV | Built-in Chromecast, voice search, Google Play apps |
| Amazon | Fire OS | Alexa voice control, custom app launcher, USB playback |
Connectivity and Control
A great signage TV should support both wired and wireless connectivity options for flexible content delivery. At minimum, look for models with Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Gigabit Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.0. HDMI 2.1 and USB 3.0 ports enable fast and reliable connections to external media sources.
To minimize cable clutter and installation complexity, choose a smart TV with built-in support for over-the-air (OTA) updates, remote management, and wireless screen sharing via Miracast, Chromecast, or AirPlay 2. Compatibility with leading device management platforms like Samsung Knox and LG‘s Pro:Centric enables streamlined provisioning and control of multi-screen signage networks.
For the ultimate in deployment flexibility, look for a smart TV with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE+) support, which can receive both power and data through a single Ethernet cable without the need for separate power outlets. Select models from leading commercial brands are now available with this cutting-edge feature.
Commercial-Grade Durability
Unlike consumer TVs that are only rated for 8 hours per day of use, a commercial-grade signage TV is designed for 16/7 or 24/7 operation in demanding environments. Reinforced metal enclosures, tempered glass, and dust-proof designs ensure reliable performance in settings ranging from industrial workplaces to outdoor kiosks.
For guaranteed performance and peace of mind, choose a signage TV with an extended commercial warranty covering 3-5 years of continuous use. Be sure to also check the specified operating temperature range, particularly for displays that will be used outdoors or in non-climate-controlled spaces.
The Top 10 Smart TVs for Digital Signage in 2022
With those essential features in mind, here are our top picks for the best digital signage TVs across a range of categories and price points:
-
Best Overall: Samsung QMR/QBR Series\
From $1099 (43") to $2499 (75"), 4K Quantum HDR, Tizen 6.0 w/ MagicINFO -
Best Value: LG UT577H Series\
From $696 (43") to $2969 (86"), 4K UHD, webOS 5.0 w/ SuperSign -
Best Outdoor: SunBrite Pro 2 Series\
From $2595 (55") to $10995 (85"), 4K HDR, TruVision Anti-Glare Screen -
Best Open Pluggable: Philips X-Line Series\
From $600 (43") to $1200 (55"), 4K UHD, Android TV 9, OPS Slot -
Best Design: Sony FW-100BZ40J\
$5079, 100" 4K HDR, X1 Processor, Flush Surface Design -
Best 8K: Samsung QBN-8K Series\
From $3499 (65") to $12999 (98"), 8K QLED, HDR 32x, AI Upscaling -
Best Curved: Peerless-AV Ultra-Stretch Series\
From $6500 (49") to $35000 (86"), Concave Screen, 3840×1080 UHD -
Best Touch: Avocor E Series\
From $3999 (55") to $14999 (86"), 4K@60Hz, 20-point IR Touch -
Best Transparent: LG 55EW5G-A\
$4997, 55" FHD, 38% Transparency, HDMI 2.0 and DP Inputs -
Best Video Wall: Planar VM Series\
From $7000 (49") to $35000 (98"), Extreme Narrow Bezel, MicroLED Blacklight
By investing in cutting-edge digital signage TVs, businesses across industries can unlock new opportunities to engage customers, boost sales, and build brand loyalty. But hardware is only half the battle – the real key to signage success lies in creating compelling content that adds value to the customer experience.
Tips for Maximizing Digital Signage ROI
To get the most out of your digital signage investment, follow these proven best practices:
Align Content with Business Goals
Start by defining clear objectives for your signage program, such as increasing foot traffic, promoting specific products, or reducing perceived wait times. Then, design your content strategy and messaging hierarchy to support those goals at every touchpoint.
Implement Contextual and Behavioral Targeting
Today‘s digital signage platforms enable sophisticated targeting based on audience demographics, location, time of day, weather, and more. By leveraging data from sensors, mobile apps, and other sources, you can create hyper-relevant content that resonates with viewers and influences behavior.
Embrace Interactivity and Personalization
Touchscreens, voice interfaces, and smartphone integrations are transforming digital signage from a one-way medium into a two-way conversation. Consider ways to make your signage more interactive, such as product visualizers, wayfinding tools, and social media walls that respond to user input.
Optimize for Accessibility and Analytics
Ensure your signage content adheres to ADA guidelines for font size, color contrast, and audio description to maximize readability for all viewers. Be sure to also implement analytics and A/B testing to gain data-driven insights into content performance and optimize accordingly.
Integrate with Omnichannel Touchpoints
Digital signage doesn‘t exist in isolation – it should be part of a cohesive ecosystem spanning web, mobile, email, and digital out-of-home (DOOH). By connecting signage with other channels like smartphones and social media, brands can deliver seamless cross-platform experiences that drive engagement and loyalty.
The Future of Digital Signage
As display technology continues to advance and costs decline, the creative possibilities for digital signage are expanding rapidly. Emerging trends on the horizon include:
- Micro and mini LED displays for even greater brightness, efficiency, and durability
- Transparent OLED screens seamlessly integrated into retail architecture
- Autonomous digital signage with AI-powered content adaptation
- Computer vision analytics for real-time audience tracking and dynamic content triggering
- Flexible screens in custom shapes and sizes for unique branded installations
- Holographic signage leveraging volumetric video and light field displays
By staying at the forefront of these cutting-edge technologies and content strategies, businesses can harness the full potential of digital signage as a powerful driver of customer engagement and business growth. With the right mix of hardware, software, and creativity, the possibilities are endless.
[^1^]: Source: Grand View Research [^2^]: Source: Mvix Digital Signage