Best Compact & Clever Smart TVs For Cooking In Small Kitchens
Having a TV in the kitchen can make cooking, eating, and entertaining more enjoyable. But finding the right small smart TV that actually fits in a compact kitchen space can be tricky. The good news is that there are great options available with all the streaming, voice control, and smart capabilities you need to level up your culinary experience.
We’ll also provide tips to help you choose and install the perfect small TV for cooking in tight quarters.
The Convenience Of A Smart TV In The Kitchen
A kitchen TV provides entertainment and convenience while you're prepping ingredients, cooking meals, and washing dishes. It allows you to stream cooking shows, music, or the news while multitasking. Many smart TVs also have built-in voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Bixby. This lets you control the TV hands-free, which is ideal when your hands are messy or full.
Having quick access to streaming apps can also come in handy if you want to follow along with an online recipe or cooking video. And when it's time to eat, you can keep up with current events or binge your favorite shows right from the breakfast nook or kitchen table.
Benefits Of A Smart Kitchen TV
- Streaming entertainment while prepping & cooking
- Following online recipes & cooking videos
- News & music playback while washing dishes
- Hands-free voice control
- More affordable than larger smart TVs
Choosing The Optimal Small Smart TV Size
When shopping for a kitchen TV, you first need to measure the space you have available to ensure a comfortable fit. Consider where you want to install it - on a wall, the counter, or a shelf. Then determine what size will work best based on the layout and typical viewing distance.
Recommended Kitchen TV Size
For most compact kitchens, a 32-43 inch smart TV is ideal. A 32 inch is great if you'll be viewing up close, like right across from the stove or sink. If you have more open space and will watch further away, a 43 inch allows you to see the screen from more angles.
Avoid going too small, as it will strain your eyes. But don't go too big either or the TV will dominate the kitchen. The 32 to 43 inch range strikes the right balance for functionality and fit.
TV Resolution And Display
A 720p or 1080p HD resolution is sufficient for a small smart TV. You likely don't need 4K, which is better suited for larger screens. An LED display provides a crisp, vibrant picture without costing a premium. While OLED is ideal for contrast, high-end models get pricey.
Reviews Of The Best Small Smart TVs For Kitchens
Here are our top compact smart TV picks perfect for steaming, voice control, and hands-free viewing as you cook and dine in your kitchen.
Top-Rated 32-Inch Smart TVs
1. TCL 32S327 32-Inch 1080p - This budget-friendly 720p Roku TV delivers streaming and voice control at a wallet-friendly price point. The intuitive Roku interface makes it easy to access apps like Netflix and Hulu right from the home screen. Voice commands with Google Assistant provide convenient hands-free control.
2. Hisense 32H5500F - With built-in Android TV, this 32-inch smart TV puts thousands of apps and streaming channels at your fingertips. It includes Google Assistant for voice commands and Chromecast for streaming from your mobile device. The price is affordable for a 1080p HD picture quality.
Our Favorite 43-Inch Smart TV Models
1. Samsung 43-inch Crystal UHD - Samsung's 43-inch TU700 Crystal UHD smart TV delivers vibrant 4K resolution and vivid HDR color. The user-friendly Tizen interface makes navigating streaming services a breeze. Voice interaction via Bixby allows convenient hands-free control.
2. TCL 43S425 43 Inch 4K - For under $300, TCL's 43-inch Roku TV packs streaming, 4K HDR video, and voice control into a slim, budget-friendly package. The Roku smart platform is intuitive and offers hundreds of streaming channels.
Key Features To Look For In A Kitchen TV
Beyond just the right size, there are a few must-have features that make a smart TV perfect for kitchen installation.
Easy-To-Use Smart Platform
The smart TV operating system, whether Roku TV, Fire TV, Android TV, WebOS or another interface, should make accessing apps fast and straightforward. This allows you to quickly get to the streaming content, music, or recipes you want with minimal menus or steps.
Hands-Free Voice Control
Controlling your kitchen TV via voice commands allows you to change channels, search for shows, adjust volume, and more without ever having to touch the remote. Alexa, Bixby, Google Assistant, and Siri can provide convenient hands-free interaction.
WiFi, HDMI, and USB
WiFi connectivity is essential for smart functionality and streaming. Multiple HDMI ports allow you to connect soundbars or other devices. And USB ports let you play media from flash drives or connect peripherals where needed.
Installing Your Kitchen TV
Placing your compact smart TV in the optimal spot with a secure mount is key for the best viewing experience.
Wall Mount vs TV Stand
Wall-mounted TVs are great for freeing up counter and shelf space. Just be sure to hit studs and use a mount rated for your TV's weight. A fixed or swivel wall mount with an articulating arm offers the most flexible positioning. TV stands provide an alternative if you don't want to drill into walls.
Allow Airflow
When wall-mounting, don't push the TV flush to the wall. Leave at least 2 inches for airflow and ventilation. This prevents overheating.
Hide Cables From View
Use cable concealers or raceways to neatly hide HDMI, power cords, and other wiring out of sight. This keeps your kitchen looking tidy.
Optimal Viewing Position
Consider sight lines from cooking, prep, and eating areas to choose the best place for your TV. Corner or side wall installation often works well. Avoid placing directly across from windows where glare could be an issue.
Adding a compact 32-43 inch smart TV can hugely enhance meal prep and cooking. With the ability to stream entertainment and follow recipes hands-free, a kitchen TV offers convenience and fun. Just be sure to choose the right size for the space and optimal viewing. Models with smart platforms, voice control, and crisp HD deliver an appliance-like experience. With our top small smart TV recommendations, you can take your culinary setup to the next level.