We have revised our recommendations and updated our selection of the top portable TVs available for purchase. Portable TVs provide an enjoyable binge-watching experience during long road trips and flights, allowing you to effortlessly stream content from your preferred streaming apps and keep both yourself and others entertained. Here are our top picks.
UPDATE: 10/11/2023
We've reviewed our recommendations and have updated all our picks for the best portable TVs you can buy.
LGLG StanbyME Go
Best Portable TV Overall See at LG
TylerTyler TTV706 Portable TV
Best Budget Portable TV $90 at Amazon
SeventourSeventour Portable Car TV
Best Portable TV for the Car $279 at Amazon
DesobryDESOBRY Portable Smart TV
Best Portable Gaming TV $170 at Amazon
What to Look For in a Portable TV in 2023
Choosing the best portable TV comes down to four criteria: screen size, image/sound quality, charging time, and the number of ports.
Portable TVs that have a minimum screen size of 7 inches, up to 1080p resolution, and wide viewing angles provide exceptional viewing experiences. Even though these specifications may not be as impressive as those found in modern TVs, the key factor remains their portability.
Moreover, the top-notch portable TVs offer various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and built-in tuners for accessing local TV channels without any charges. Additionally, they have ports that allow the easy connection of devices like Chromecast, Roku, and other streaming platforms, thus providing immediate access to a vast library of movies and TV shows.
The ideal portable TV will run on DC power and have a battery for use when there is no power source. Below are five top choices we have shortlisted after extensive research on portable TVs.
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Our recommendations for products at How-To Geek are provided by our team of experts who have assisted in fixing people's gadgets over one billion times. Our research and expertise are the foundations for selecting only the finest products. We do not accept any form of payment to promote or review products. Read More »
Best Portable TV Overall: LG StanbyME Go
LG
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
A complete portable package | Only three hours of battery life |
webOS is a reliable smart TV platform | Can’t be removed from the case |
Dolby Vision and Atmos support | Weighs 33lbs (almost 15kgs) |
The LG StanbyME Go, also known as the "suitcase TV," is a unique and portable television offered by a renowned brand. This innovative device is essentially a 27-inch touchscreen full-HD TV that conveniently resides within a briefcase. With ease, you can open the case, adjust the TV's angle or orientation to your preference, and begin enjoying your favorite shows or movies. Once you have finished, simply place the screen back into its designated space, close the lid of the case, and it is then ready for storage or travel.
The LG StanbyME Go is a top-of-the-line portable TV that offers unparalleled refinement and a wide range of features. While it may come with a higher price tag, it is worth every penny for avid users who value quality and an immersive viewing experience. With Dolby Vision and HDR10, you can enjoy vibrant and lifelike visuals from any source. Additionally, the TV boasts a powerful 20W four-channel speaker system with Dolby Atmos support, ensuring a captivating surround sound experience.
The StanbyME Go, like other LG TVs, utilizes webOS for its software, granting you access to numerous apps, including popular streaming services. It is also compatible with Apple AirPlay 2. Notable features include a built-in battery that can provide up to three hours of power and an HDMI input for connecting streaming devices, gaming consoles, and more.
While the StanbyME Go offers many appealing features, it does have its drawbacks. The permanently attached briefcase may prove distracting or obstructive. Additionally, its use of an LCD panel means you won't experience the same exceptional picture quality as LG's OLED TVs.
Introducing the LG StanbyME GoThe LG StanbyME Go is not just your average portable TV. It is a truly one-of-a-kind device that comes conveniently packed in a sleek suitcase. With its impressive large screen and support for Dolby Vision, this portable TV guarantees a superior visual experience. What sets it apart is its versatility - it can be used in various orientations, giving you the freedom to watch your favorite shows and movies the way you prefer. Say goodbye to limited options and hello to the LG StanbyME Go!
See at LG See at B&H Photo Video
Best Budget Portable TV: Tyler TTV706 Portable TV
Tyler
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Multiple inputs, including HDMI | Average picture quality |
Works with Fire TV, Chromecast, and other streamers | Audio could be better |
Included antennae can catch free-to-air channels |
The Tyler TTV706 is an affordable portable TV with a 10-inch Full HD LCD screen. It offers various input options, such as HDMI, for connecting external devices to enjoy streaming media or playing games. You can also watch offline content by plugging in a USB drive or using the SD card slot. The built-in battery has a claimed battery life of up to four hours and can be charged using the wall charger or car adapter. Additionally, the TV comes with a stand, antennae for broadcast TV or FM radio reception, and a remote control for easy operation.
Streaming devices, such as the Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, or Chromecast, function flawlessly. Nevertheless, the built-in speaker lacks sufficient volume. For improved audio performance, it is advisable to connect a portable speaker. Furthermore, due to its affordable price, the provided LCD panel of
TylerTyler TTV706 Portable TV may not exhibit superior quality, resulting in average picture display.
Introducing the Tyler TTV706, the ultimate budget-friendly portable TV. This remarkable device boasts a crisp Full HD screen, an HDMI input for enhanced connectivity, and even comes equipped with a built-in TV tuner. Plus, with a remarkable battery life of up to four hours on a single charge, you can enjoy endless entertainment on the go. Get yours today for just $90 on Amazon.
Best Portable TV for the Car: Seventour Portable Car TV
Seventour
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Google Play Store offers access to a large app selection | No built-in battery or TV tuner |
Included mounting hardware for cars | |
HDMI input available |
For those seeking a solution to entertain children or other passengers during lengthy road travels, or simply in need of some entertainment during pit stops, the Seventour Portable Car TV offers a viable choice. Equipped with a versatile mount designed to accommodate any car seat featuring a round headrest pole, this car TV stays securely in place throughout your journey, even when encountering bumps or speed bumps.
The TV is equipped with a 12.4-inch Full HD IPS LCD panel instead of a 4K panel, as advertised on Amazon. It operates on Android 10, although it's not specifically the Android TV version. Nonetheless, it offers a broad range of applications through the Google Play Store, including various well-known streaming services.
In addition to its other functionalities, the TV includes two HDMI ports - one for input and the other for output. This allows you to connect streaming devices and gaming consoles or mirror the TV screen onto another display.
Introducing the SeventourPortable Car TV, a unique recommendation that sets itself apart from the rest by its distinct features. Unlike our other suggestions, this exceptional device does not come with an integrated battery. As a result, it requires a connection to your car's 12-volt outlet or cigarette lighter port. Additionally, it is important to note that the Seventour Portable Car TV does not possess a TV tuner. Consequently, your content acquisition will depend solely on apps. However, it is worth mentioning that downloaded content can still be enjoyed offline. To ensure uninterrupted access to online content, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is necessary.
The Seventour Portable Car TV is the ultimate choice for in-car entertainment. Designed with a universal car mount and equipped with access to a wide range of Android apps, it offers endless entertainment possibilities. Additionally, it features an HDMI input for seamless connectivity. However, it is important to note that this TV does not come with a built-in battery. Available for $279 on Amazon.
Best Portable Gaming TV: Desobry Portable Smart TV
Desobry
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Multiple input options | Only supports 32GB USB drives |
Built-in TV tuner | Poor viewing angles |
Decent picture quality |
Need to game on the move? Desobry Portable Smart TV is here to assist. Equipped with a 14-inch Full HD screen, dual speakers, and an HDMI input, this device ensures a seamless gaming experience wherever you desire. Connect any game console or PC that supports HDMI output and get ready to game on the go.
The display can be powered by the included 4,000mAh battery in situations where there is no access to a wall outlet. Additionally, the company provides both wall and car chargers for the TV.
In addition to its primary features, the TV comes with a built-in TV tuner which allows you to enjoy free broadcasts. Furthermore, the TV has an HDMI port that enables you to connect your preferred streamer. Moreover, there are USB and RCA connectors available to provide additional connectivity options. It is important to note that the TV only supports USB drives up to 32GB in capacity that are formatted using the FAT32 file system.
Introducing the DESOBRY Portable Smart TV. This innovative device comes equipped with a convenient built-in TV stand, allowing you to easily prop it up at the perfect viewing angle. To enhance your viewing experience even further, we also provide a car mounting kit specifically designed for your vehicle.
While DESOBRY Portable Smart TV offers remarkable picture quality considering its affordable price tag, it does have a drawback in terms of limited viewing angles.
Upgrade your gaming experience with the Desobry Portable Smart TV. Whether you're on the road, camping, or chilling in your backyard, this portable gaming TV is the perfect companion. Enjoy stunning visuals and crystal-clear audio with its Full HD screen, HDMI port, and dual speakers. Get yours now for just $170 on Amazon.
Best Portable Smart TV: LG StanbyME Go
LG
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Reliable smart TV platform | A bit heavy at 33lbs |
Durable case and 27-inch touchscreen display |
The LG StanbyMe Go, our top recommendation for a portable smart TV, is powered by webOS, making it a versatile choice for portable TV shoppers. With the same smart TV operating system as LG's regular TVs, you'll have access to a wide range of apps from the company's app store. Additionally, it supports casting via Apple AirPlay 2 and offers hands-free voice control through the company's voice assistant. In addition to voice control, you can easily navigate the TV using the touchscreen or the included remote control.
The “suitcase TV” offers several features, including a 27-inch LCD screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It also includes a swivel function, allowing you to use the display in landscape or portrait orientations. Additionally, you have the option to operate the TV in tablet mode for playing digital board games and other activities.
To enhance your viewing experience, the TV is equipped with Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos, providing a cinematic feel when watching movies or TV shows from your streaming service. Furthermore, you can connect external devices using the HDMI input, provided they have their own power source.
The StanbyME Go features a built-in battery that offers up to three hours of usage on a single charge. The great advantage is that the battery is easily replaceable, allowing you to purchase a new one for less than $250 and extend the TV's lifespan.
LG assures durability for the suitcase carrying the TV, claiming it can withstand everyday mishaps. This ensures your investment is safely protected from minor bumps or impacts. However, it's important to note that the LG StanbyMe Go is not as lightweight as our other recommendations. Additionally, the display cannot be detached from the case.
Introducing the LG StanbyME Go
Experience the Best Portable Smart TV - LG StanbyME Go. With its advanced webOS, this smart TV platform offers a multitude of features including access to all your favorite streaming services and convenient voice control.
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