Direct View (Tube)
Here at Best TV Review, no TV is too small, too expensive, too bulky, or in this case, too old. Also known as a direct view, a tube television is the closest thing to the one baby boomers watched when they were kids. Although technology has become more complex and confusing, the classic Tube TV is the most basic “modern” television.
The picture device is a cathode ray tube, which is basically a specialized vacuum tube. The basic science behind it starts with three electron guns, one for red, one for blue, and one for green. The beams are basically sent through the tube, and are filtered through a “mask” which separates the colors to display the image onto the screen.
All science aside, CRTs come in all shapes and sizes up to about 40-inches. They feature a good picture from all angles, the best black level, and are significantly lower in price than other TVs. Despite their bulky and heavy build, tube televisions are long-lasting and acclaimed for retaining a good picture throughout its lifespan, which can be decades.
This type of television is ideal for people on a tight budget. Because the technology is dated, the cost can be dramatically lower, so if you are looking for a simple TV for your kids room, bonus room, or basement, the Tube can be a cheap means of entertainment. However, most major TV retail stores no longer carry “classic” tube televisions, so you might have to find a garage sale, local Salvation Army, or possibly an antique store. There are modern CRTs that still command a large part of the TV retail industry, and look more modern. The average cost of a newer 30-39 inch tube TV is around $200-$400, whereas LCD TVs in the same range can cost over twice as much.
This specific type of TV receives a Best TV Review grade of 5.5.
The Good: Durable and long lasting, cost effective, decent picture quality, strongest black level
The Bad: Large and bulky, looks “old” and outdated, weakest picture quality, max size of around 40″, repair parts can be difficult to find for older models