The DID 2026 TV buying guide
No modern living room is complete without a TV. Technology is constantly evolving, with homes becoming increasingly smarter as time passes. Televisions are no exception to this smart revolution. From OLED and Mini LED to AI-powered picture processing and fully integrated smart ecosystems, the TV has seen many upgrades in the last few years. Here at DID, we have a wide range of TVs, including OLED, 8K, and QLED. There is a range to cater for buying your first TV, upgrading or adding a second set to your home.
In this updated 2026 TV buying guide, we’ll walk you through the key features, technologies, and upgrades to consider when choosing your next TV.
Similarly, if you see a TV you like and want to upgrade ASAP, consider our Humm Finance option. You can get a quote, buy now, and pay later. What more could you want?
Picture Quality: 4K, 8K & Beyond
First things first, if you want to upgrade your viewing experience, then picture quality should be your starting point. 4K is considered standard for the majority of TVs today, especially if you are buying a 48" model or bigger. If you already own a 4K model, there are still options for enhancing picture quality in your new TV.
- 4K (Ultra HD) is now the standard, offering four times the resolution of Full HD and delivering crisp, detailed images.
- 8K TVs are available for those who want cutting-edge tech, though native 8K content is still limited in 2026.
- Upscaling technology has improved dramatically. Many modern TVs have AI processors to enhance lower-resolution content to near 4K quality.
- OLED TVs showcase perfect blacks and incredible contrast. They are ideal for movies and gaming. This is a common upgrade for people moving from 4K LED.
- QLED / Mini LED offer brighter screens, great for well-lit rooms.
- HDR formats (Dolby Vision, HDR10+) boost colour, brightness, and contrast.
DID Recommends - For most homes, a 4K OLED offers the best balance of price and performance.
Smart TVs and AI Features
In 2026, almost every TV is a smart TV, but not all smart TVs are created equal! If you are happy with the resolution of your TV, then consider upgrading to experience the modern era of smart TVs. You can expect to see:
- Built-in streaming apps (Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube, Spotify).
- Remote controls with dedicated app buttons for easy access.
- Voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
- AI personalisation that displays recommendations based on your previous viewing habits.
- Seamless phone casting & screen mirroring.
DID Recommends - Look for fast, easy-to-use operating systems like Google TV, Tizen (Samsung), or webOS (LG).
Sounds Good
Good picture quality and good sound go hand-in-hand. Maybe you already have a good television and want to find a new way to improve your viewing experience. Well, having a high-quality sound system or soundbar can come in handy. Yeah, the built-in speakers on the television are great, but when you compare it to the sound quality on a Sony Dolby Digital Bluetooth Soundbar or a Sonos Beam for example, then you won’t look at your television the same way again. Invest in good quality sound, and your viewing experience will improve dramatically.
The Wall Mount
Sometimes, something simple can work the best. Perhaps you have a great television and a high-quality sound system ready to rock, but you aren't sure how to display it. Then you are probably not getting the best experience possible. Wall-mounted televisions are less likely to fall and are ergonomically friendly for those watching. They are also a cheap and cheerful way of improving your viewing experience and giving your room a more modern feel. Plus they save you space, what more could you need?
If you hope to upgrade your TV viewing experience but don’t know where to start, do not hesitate to contact your local store, where one of our team would be happy to help you. Alternatively, call our online sales team, who will gladly assist over the phone! Delivery is quick and efficient if you order online, or you can avail of the click and collect service we provide across our 24 stores nationwide, so you are never too far away from landing that brand new television or television accessory.
TV Buying Guide FAQs
What is the difference between 4k and HD?
While HD content is 1920 x 1080 pixels in size, 4K delivers four times as many pixels at 3840 x 2160. Four times the pixels means four times the screen real estate, so the first big benefit of a 4K over a true HD display is space.
What is a Smart TV?
A Smart TV is a television with built-in technology to help maximise your viewing experience. They have a range of built-in applications that will let you stream the likes of Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, or Spotify at the touch of a button.
How do I mount my TV to my wall?
Typically you will attach your cables to your television, so your HDMI and power lead etc, and with someone to help you, lift the TV into place, using an Allen key to secure the brackets. It seems complex, but the process is actually quite straightforward.