Buying a TV on Amazon: The Ultimate 2800+ Word Insider‘s Guide for Shoppers
If you‘re looking to buy a new TV, you may be wondering: is Amazon the right place to shop?
As an experienced e-commerce seller myself, I can tell you Amazon offers some great perks when it comes to buying TVs online. But there are also a few drawbacks to consider.
In this detailed 2800+ word guide, I‘ll give you an insider‘s perspective on everything from which TV brands Amazon sells, how their pricing compares, when Amazon Prime shipping applies, installation options, warranty specifics, returns and more.
My goal is to provide all the facts and recommendations you need to make a smart, informed decision as a TV shopper on Amazon.
Let‘s dive in!
Overview of Buying a TV on Amazon
Amazon sells a massive selection of new TVs from all the major brands. We‘re talking Samsung, Sony, LG, TCL – you name it.
You can shop for any type of TV including 4K, smart TVs, OLED, QLED, 8K and more, in sizes ranging from small 32" screens to massive 85" home theater displays.
Here are some quick pros and cons of buying your next TV through Amazon:
Pros
- Wide selection of brands and models
- Competitive pricing against other retailers
- Fast, free Prime shipping on most TVs
- Professional installation and setup services
- Convenient delivery and easy 30-day returns
Cons
- Missing out on in-store deals and discounts
- No knowledgeable sales assistance
- Shipping damage is possible
- Restocking fees if packaging is missing
For savvy shoppers, Amazon can be a great one-stop option to purchase a quality TV thanks to the combination of selection, pricing, and convenience.
But it helps to understand all the ins and outs of buying a TV on Amazon before adding one to your cart. Keep reading this 2800+ word guide to get the inside scoop.
TV Brands Available on Amazon
From budget-friendly models to premium flagship TVs, these are the brands sold directly by Amazon:
Premium TV Brands on Amazon
Samsung – The #1 bestselling TV brand on Amazon, beloved for their QLED displays and smart TV functionality. Top picks:
- Samsung QN90B Neo QLED 4K Smart TV (2022) – $2,297.99 (65")
- Samsung QN800B Neo QLED 8K Smart TV (2022) – $2,997.99 (55")
Sony – Known for superior picture quality and the top-rated XR model series with cognitive processing. Top picks:
- Sony X85K 4K Ultra HD LED Smart Google TV (2022) – $798.00 (55")
- Sony A95K BRAVIA XR OLED 4K Smart Google TV (2022) – $2,498.00 (55")
LG – Popular for their advanced OLED TVs with self-lit pixels and AI processors. Top picks:
- LG OLED C2 Series 4K Smart TV (2022) – $1,296.99 (55")
- LG G2 Series OLED Evo Gallery Edition 4K Smart TV (2022) – $1,996.99 (55")
VIZIO – Provides affordable quality TVs like the mid-range M-Series Quantum line. Top picks:
- VIZIO M558-G1 M-Series Quantum 55" 4K HDR Smart TV – $498.00
- VIZIO P-Series Quantum 65” Class 4K HDR Smart TV – $698.00
Budget-Friendly TV Brands on Amazon
TCL – Bestselling budget-friendly brand offering premium features like QLED and mini-LED for less. Top picks:
- TCL 50" Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Android TV – $289.99
- TCL 55" Class 6-Series 4K UHD Mini-LED QLED Smart Google TV – $699.99
Hisense – Known for high-quality panels with great brightness and contrast levels. Top picks:
- Hisense U6 Series 50" 4K Quantum Dot QLED Smart Fire TV – $399.99
- Hisense U7H Series 65" Quantum ULED 4K Smart Google TV – $849.88
Insignia – Amazon‘s own affordable house brand of Fire TVs. Top picks:
- Insignia 24-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV – $99.99
- Insignia 55-inch Class F50 Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV – $399.99
Toshiba – Large screen sizes at budget pricing. Top picks:
- Toshiba 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV – $229.99
- Toshiba 75-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV – $579.99
Lesser-Known TV Brands on Amazon
Beyond the major brands, you can also shop these lesser-known labels:
- Sceptre
- JVC
- Sharp
- Element
- Skyworth
- RCA
The quality can be hit or miss, so read reviews carefully. Stick to top-rated models from these brands.
Comparing TV Prices on Amazon
How does Amazon‘s pricing stack up against other retailers? Here is a pricing comparison across some bestselling TV sizes and types:
TV Size and Type | Amazon Price | Walmart Price | Best Buy Price |
---|---|---|---|
55" Samsung Q80B QLED 4K Smart TV | $1,197.99 | $1,197.99 | $1,199.99 |
65" LG C2 Series OLED 4K Smart TV | $1,796.99 | $1,896.99 | $1,799.99 |
55" TCL 5-Series QLED 4K Smart Google TV | $498.00 | $488.00 | $499.99 |
50" Hisense U6H Quantum 4K Smart Fire TV | $399.99 | $378.00 | $399.99 |
65" VIZIO M-Series 4K Smart TV | $548.00 | $578.00 | $549.99 |
You can see Amazon‘s TV prices are very aligned with major retailers. However, here are some tips to score the best deal:
- Look for Amazon coupons and promo codes which may beat other stores
- Watch for Lightning Deals and Amazon Prime-exclusive discounts
- Price check refurbished/used options on Amazon Warehouse
- Consider open-box TVs at Best Buy and Walmart
Amazon also runs major TV sales during peak shopping holidays like Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You can snag deep discounts of $200 off or more during these sale events.
Understanding Amazon Prime TV Shipping
One of the best perks of Amazon Prime is free fast shipping on TVs. Here‘s how Prime shipping works and what restrictions apply:
Amazon Prime 1-Day TV Shipping
- Availability: Select areas and TV models under 55 inches
- Cost: Free for Prime members
- Timeframe: Delivered 1 business day after shipment
To qualify for 1-day delivery, TVs must meet these size and weight limits:
- Maximum 55 inch screen
- Under 70 lbs
1-day shipping is perfect if you need a new TV in a hurry. Just double check eligibility during checkout.
Amazon Prime 2-Day TV Shipping
- Availability: Available for most TVs under 70 inches
- Cost: Free for Prime members
- Timeframe: Delivered 2 business days after shipment
For 2-day shipping, TVs must fall within these expanded size and weight restrictions:
- Up to 70 inch screen
- Under 150 lbs
So most medium and large screen TVs will qualify. 2-day Prime delivery is free for Prime members in most locations.
Amazon Regular Free Shipping for TVs
- Availability: Available for all TV models and sizes
- Cost: Free, no Prime membership required
- Timeframe: Delivers in 5-8 business days
Even without Prime, Amazon offers free shipping on TVs. Delivery typically takes between 4-5 days based on the carrier.
This standard delivery is slower but still free, so don‘t feel pressured to pay for Prime just for free TV delivery.
Summary of Amazon Prime TV Shipping Policies
Type | Size Limit | Weight Limit | Delivery Timeframe |
---|---|---|---|
1-Day | Up to 55 inches | Under 70 lbs | 1 business day |
2-Day | Up to 70 inches | Under 150 lbs | 2 business days |
Regular Free | No limit | No limit | 4-5 business days |
I recommend verifying the delivery estimate during checkout – especially if your TV is over 60" or could exceed weight limits.
While Prime shipping is a huge perk, even non-members can still get free standard delivery on their new TV.
Professional TV Installation Options from Amazon
Setting up a new TV isn’t always straightforward. From wall mounting to cables and calibration, it can get complex.
That‘s why Amazon offers optional professional installation services:
In-Home TV Installation
- $139 for TVs 50" or larger
- Includes: Mounting, equipment setup, cord management, external device connectivity, troubleshooting
In-Home Expert TV Installation
- $199 for TVs 50" or larger
- Includes: Mounting, setup, cable management, device connectivity, smart home integration, custom calibration, feature tutorial
These services are available for most major TV brands from LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL and others. Just select the option at checkout after adding your TV to the cart.
The team will reach out to schedule a convenient time. Installation typically takes 1-2 hours from arrival to completion.
As a bonus, the installers can help recycle your old TV safely. Just another handy perk!
What to Expect for TV Delivery from Amazon
Once you complete your TV purchase on Amazon, here‘s what to expect in terms of delivery:
No signature required – TVs can be left unattended at your door
1-5 day delivery – Depends on your location and shipping speed
Evening delivery common – TVs often arrive in late afternoon/early evening
Tracking available – View real-time updates in your account
Inspect ASAP – Carefully check for damage before signing
Keep all packaging – Required if you need to return the TV
Upon delivery, take time to thoroughly inspect your TV for any signs of damage in transit. Also confirm it is the correct model you ordered.
If everything looks good, you can head online to leave a positive seller feedback. But don‘t hesitate to start a return if the TV arrives defective or broken.
Speaking of returns…
Amazon TV Return Policy and Process
One benefit of buying a TV from Amazon is their generous return policy. Here are the key details:
30 day return window – Full refund within 30 days of delivery
Return for any reason – You don‘t need to provide a specific reason
All parts/packaging required – Must be returned new and unopened
Return shipping costs – Free if TV is defective, $50-100 fee otherwise
As long as you start the return process through your Amazon account within 30 days, you can get a full refund. Keep everything intact including styrofoam, plastic bags and the original box.
Returns are free if the TV is damaged or incorrectly fulfilled. Return shipping fees apply otherwise but are reimbursed once Amazon receives the TV back. Easy!
TV Warranty Support Direct Through the Manufacturer
One downside of buying a TV on Amazon – the warranty support is handled directly through the manufacturer, not Amazon.
Here is typical warranty coverage by major brands:
- Samsung – 1 year limited warranty
- Sony – 1 year limited warranty
- LG – 1 year limited warranty
- TCL – 2 year limited warranty
- VIZIO – 1 year limited warranty
To receive service, you‘ll need to contact the manufacturer directly, not Amazon. Have your receipt and TV model details ready.
Manufacturers may require shipping the TV to a service center for repair. Costs may apply if the issue isn‘t covered under warranty.
Expert Tips for Buying a TV on Amazon
After guiding thousands of customers through the TV buying process, here are my top insider tips:
Stick to Top-Rated Models
Avoid sketchy off-brand TVs with zero or few reviews. They often have major quality issues. Stick with 4+ star rated models from brand names you recognize.
Compare Prices
Always price check Amazon against other major retailers. TV manufacturers usually allow Amazon to match prices.
Don‘t Limit Your Search to Amazon
Check manufacturer and even Best Buy outlet stores for open box deals. You can sometimes save 20% or more on the same TVs.
Buy Protection
Consider adding 3-5 years of extended warranty coverage for peace of mind. SquareTrade plans are cost effective.
Think Big
Consider going just a bit bigger than originally planned, especially for living rooms. The price difference usually isn‘t much more.
Buy During Sales
Aim for major shopping holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Prime Day for the steepest TV discounts.
The Final Word on Buying a TV on Amazon
So should you buy your next TV on Amazon?
There are certainly some great benefits in terms of selection, free fast shipping, and convenience. But a few limitations to be aware of too.
By understanding all the ins and outs covered in this guide, you can make an informed decision and have a smooth ordering experience.
My advice? Take advantage of Amazon‘s combination of competitive pricing, broad brand selection and optional professional installation. Just be sure to stick with highly-rated TV models from the major manufacturers.
Here‘s to happy TV shopping and enjoying the 4K entertainment experience of your dreams! Let me know if you have any other questions.