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Most Energy Efficient TVs in 2024: A Comprehensive Overview
This blog post helps you pick the most energy-efficient TV in 2024 by focusing on energy labels, ecodesign, and technology impact. It explores international programs like Energy Star and EU Energy Labels, highlighting their importance. Additionally, it offers practical tips for energy savings, buying considerations, and FAQs on TV types (OLED, Mini LED, LED, and LCD).
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Introduction 📜
Choosing the most energy-efficient TV in 2024 requires balancing several key factors, from energy ratings to technological advancements.
Energy efficiency labels like ENERGY STAR and the European Union Energy Label help consumers assess both energy use and overall product quality.
While technology is constantly improving, offering more efficient screens, the demand for larger, brighter displays can offset these gains. Additionally, the embodied carbon of a TV is an often-overlooked aspect of its environmental footprint. While we recommend the LG B4 4K OLED Smart TV for its excellent size and quality without compromising energy efficiency, it’s important to note that larger screen sizes typically reduce energy efficiency. However, a 55-inch model is often a sweet spot for a pleasant viewing experience, striking a balance between size and efficiency.
In short, to find the most energy-efficient TV, consider energy ratings, embodied carbon, and the latest innovations that enhance both performance and sustainability. The LG B4 also includes AI and Alexa features for added convenience. Check it out here!
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Our Pick
🥇 LG B4 55" 4K OLED Smart TV
Check Latest Price On Amazon
Price incl. tax, excl. shipping
Pros
✓Estimated Yearly Energy Cost:~$31 USD, based on 16 cents per kWh and 5 hours use per day (according to Energy Guide).
✓OLED Efficiency: Self-lit pixels reduce power usage, especially in darker scenes.
✓AI Brightness Optimization: Adjusts brightness based on content, saving energy.
✓Low Standby Power: Minimal power consumption when not in use.
Cons
✗Large Screen Power Draw: Bigger sizes (like 77") consume more energy.
✗High Brightness Setting: Increased brightness can reduce energy savings.
Top Energy-Efficient TVs for Eco-Conscious Buyers in 2024
1. Top Energy-Efficient TVs for Eco-Conscious Buyers in 2024
Are you looking for the best energy-efficient TV that reduces your electricity bill while providing excellent picture quality? Here’s our hand-picked list of the top-rated energy-saving TVs in 2024 that are both eco-friendly and budget-conscious.
The LG OLED evo C4 Series 55 Inch 4K TV delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks with energy-efficient self-lit OLED technology. Enhanced by Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, it provides a premium viewing experience, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious consumers.
The SAMSUNG S90D 4K OLED TV is designed for eco-conscious consumers seeking high-quality visuals. Its advanced OLED technology delivers stunning picture quality, and with ENERGY STAR certification, it ensures energy efficiency for sustainable entertainment.
Perfect for smaller spaces and energy-conscious households, the TCL 32-inch TV offers superior power savings without sacrificing quality. It’s also budget-friendly!
Ideal for those looking for a mid-range TV with top-notch LED display quality and energy efficiency. A great balance between price and performance. This is the latest model.
This Samsung QLED TV offers exceptional brightness and contrast with low energy consumption, making it a great choice for eco-friendly 4K enthusiasts (we included metrics for the 32" model).
With an OLED display, this TV combines energy efficiency with stunning picture quality. A fantastic choice for high-end users who prioritize eco-friendliness.
The LG B4 Series 55 Inch 4K Smart OLED TV is perfect for movie lovers, gamers, and tech enthusiasts who want stunning visuals and energy efficiency. Its OLED tech uses less power by lighting only the pixels needed, making it eco-friendly without compromising top-tier performance like Dolby Vision and a 120Hz refresh rate.
Recognized for its exceptional energy efficiency and color accuracy, the LG C2 is perfect for movie lovers who also want to lower their carbon footprint.
The Sony Bravia XR90 TV may lack top energy efficiency, but it excels in delivering stunning OLED picture quality, deep blacks, and vibrant colors. With features like AI upscaling and Dolby Vision, it’s perfect for movie lovers and gamers, all wrapped in a sleek design.
$$$
Mini LED
598 kWh/yr
✗
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Choosing the Most Energy-Efficient and Sustainable TV in 2024
Choosing the Most Energy-Efficient and Sustainable TV: Key Considerations 📌
✓ LED Efficiency
LED backlighting impacts power consumption. Smaller screens with lower brightness settings can improve efficiency.
✓ Optimal Size & Ratings
Choose around 55-inch TVs with high energy ratings to lower energy costs and environmental impact.
✓ Brightness Settings
Customizable brightness can enhance energy efficiency and viewing experience.
✓ Environmental Impact
Assess energy consumption’s environmental impact. Choose sustainable products to reduce waste.
✓ Energy-Saving Tips
Improve efficiency by turning off or unplugging the TV, adjusting settings, and using power-saving modes.
2. Energy Efficiency Labels For Products
Consumers seeking information on the energy efficiency of appliances, particularly TVs, often turn to energy efficiency labels. In the United States, the U.S. Department of Energy establishes guidelines for databases like Energy Star, an internationally recognized voluntary labeling program encompassing a broad spectrum, including energy-efficient products, homes, buildings, and manufacturing plants.
Co-managed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Energy Star plays a crucial role in guiding consumers toward more sustainable and energy-efficient choices.
In contrast, the European Union Energy Labels is an EU-led initiative established through the EU Directive 92/75/EC (1992), putting in place an energy consumption labeling scheme for EU countries. This system helps consumers make more informed decisions about the energy performance of their products.
2.1 Energy Star Database
Here are some key points about the Energy Star program:
Purpose of Energy Star: Established to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants by encouraging energy-efficient products and practices.
Energy Star Label: A trusted government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, expressed on a 1 to 100 scale, where a higher score indicates better energy performance.
Optimizing Power Settings: Recommended for those prioritizing energy efficiency, the Energy Star program helps optimize power settings, reducing energy consumption for long-term savings and a smaller environmental footprint.
Global Implementation: The Energy Star service mark is found on certified energy-efficient products, homes, commercial buildings, and industrial plants, with elements being implemented in countries such as Japan, Taiwan, Switzerland, and Canada.
Energy Rating of Appliances: Appliances use a 1 to 5-star system to indicate their efficiency, with a higher star rating denoting greater energy efficiency based on design and technology.
Energy Star is the main energy label for devices electricity consumption tracking in North America
For consumers interested in purchasing energy-efficient televisions, it’s important to understand the various standards and ratings available. The U.S. Department of Energy provides comprehensive guidance on selecting televisions that meet energy efficiency criteria. This ensures you not only save on energy bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability.
Additionally, for a broader understanding of U.S. appliance standards, you can find detailed information on energy efficiency regulations and standards for various appliances by visiting the U.S. Department of Energy’s Appliance Standards Program. This resource helps consumers make informed decisions while shopping for energy-efficient appliances.
2.2 European Union Energy Labels for Televisions 🇪🇺
EU Energy Labelling and Ecodesign Impact on TVs
The EU energy labeling and ecodesign legislation play a pivotal role in promoting enhanced energy efficiency across various products, significantly impacting televisions. These regulations help consumers make informed choices by providing clear information about a product's energy consumption and efficiency. For more details on the EU energy labeling system, you can visit the European Commission’s Energy Labels page.
Additionally, the ecodesign directive sets minimum energy performance requirements for various products, ensuring that manufacturers prioritize sustainability in their designs. To learn more about ecodesign regulations and their implications for energy efficiency, check out the Ecodesign Directive page on the European Commission's website.
Energy Labels For TV in the EU typically display electricity consumption in kWh/1000h with a letter rating (A-G).
EU Energy Labelling: More Than Just A Label
Ecodesign standards establish “minimum criteria,” while energy labels serve as “indicators of efficiency,” empowering consumers to make energy-conscious choices. The projected energy savings of approximately 230 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) by 2030 carry broader implications, potentially saving consumers up to €285 annually on household energy bills, extending beyond television use.
2.3 Evolution of Energy Labels for TV
The evolution of energy labels for TVs, introduced in 1994 and expanded in 2004, entails a scale from A to G and has become a significant influencer. Recognized by 93% of consumers in 2019, it shapes purchasing decisions toward energy-efficient TVs. The ongoing transition to a new label generation, simplifying the scale to A-G, aids consumers in identifying the most energy-efficient TVs and fosters innovation as manufacturers strive for higher efficiency ratings.
Rescaling Initiative for Enhanced TV Efficiency
The rescaling initiative in 2021, specifically targeting electronic displays, including televisions, seeks to distinguish more effectively between energy-efficient models, encouraging innovation for enhanced energy efficiency in televisions. The introduction of new EU energy labels, effective from March 1, 2021, further simplifies the categorization, facilitating consumer choices with the A-G scale and incorporating QR codes for additional product details, accessible through the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL). For more information on the energy labeling system, visit the European Commission’s Energy Labels page.
Energy Labels were revised in 2021 (making requirements higher, thereby lowering grades for many TVs)
Ecodesign Measures and Sustainability in TV Technology
Ecodesign measures for TVs underscore the commitment to improved environmental performance, with a focus on reparability, recyclability, and ensuring spare parts availability, aligning with principles of a circular economy. This sustained emphasis on sustainability in television technology underpins the EU's encouragement for manufacturers to develop more sustainable and energy-efficient TV models. The shift to simpler labels not only streamlines consumer decision-making but also serves as a catalyst for ongoing innovation within the television industry, further aligning with broader environmental and energy efficiency goals. For more information, you can visit the Energy Label and Ecodesign page, or check the European Commission’s press release regarding the new EU energy labels applicable from 1 March 2021.
3. Energy Usage TV: Trends, Efficiency, and Future Innovations
3.1 Energy Saving on TV: Tailoring Energy Efficiency to Settings
Energy efficiency in TVs depends on various settings, such as watching HDR or 4K content and adjusting brightness levels. Consumption can vary based on these factors, influencing overall energy usage and performance.
3.2 Size and Television Type Impact
The size of the TV plays a crucial role, with larger screens generally consuming more energy.
Additionally, the type of television, especially for 55-inch screens or larger, may reveal lower energy efficiency.
The panel composition, particularly for older LCD panels, also influences energy consumption. LCD displays use less power than OLEDs when showing bright or white scenes due to the constant backlight that remains active regardless of brightness.
However, when displaying dark or black scenes, OLEDs consume less power because they can turn off individual pixels, whereas LCDs still require the backlight to be on, even if less light passes through.
This makes it challenging to determine which panel is more energy efficient overall, as LCDs may be less efficient in bright scenes, while OLEDs are generally more efficient in dark scenes.
Relationship between size and energy consumption of a TV
Choosing a TV involves a tradeoff between size and quality.
Larger TVs offer a clearer picture, less blurry motion, and higher refresh rates, significantly impacting the user experience.
However, smaller TVs with less high-quality panels tend to be more energy-efficient.
For instance, a 32-inch 60Hz LCD screen consumes significantly less energy than a larger OLED screen.
4. Energy Saving Tips For Television
Implementing energy-saving tips can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of your TV choice.
Reducing your TV's power consumption is not only beneficial for the environment but can also save you money on your energy bills. Here are eight effective strategies to minimize your TV's energy usage:
Turn Off or Unplug When Not in Use: Make it a habit to turn off your TV when you're not using it. For even greater energy savings, unplug it from the wall socket. This prevents power from being drawn while the TV is off.
Lower Brightness and Contrast: Adjusting the brightness and contrast settings on your TV can significantly reduce power consumption. Lower settings use less energy and can extend the lifespan of your TV.
Use Energy-Saving Mode: Many modern TVs come with an energy-saving mode designed to reduce power consumption. Enable this mode through your TV's settings to optimize energy efficiency.
Employ the Sleep Timer: Set your TV to turn off automatically after a certain period of inactivity. The sleep timer feature is a convenient way to avoid leaving the TV on when no one is watching.
Leverage Standby Mode: If you can't turn off the TV entirely, make use of standby mode. This mode reduces power usage while keeping your TV ready for immediate use.
Switch to Picture-Off Mode: When you don’t need to watch TV but still want to listen, switch to picture-off mode if your TV supports it. This mode turns off the display while keeping the audio on, which uses less energy.
Automate TV Usage: Consider using smart home systems or timers to automate your TV usage. This can help ensure your TV is only on when needed and can contribute to overall energy savings.
Optimize Power-Saving Settings: When purchasing a new TV, check for power-saving settings in the setup menu. Adjust these settings to "Off," "Low," or "High" to find the best balance between performance and energy efficiency.
Bonus Tip: Remember, completely turning off the TV is more energy-efficient than leaving it on standby. Make it a routine to power down fully to maximize energy savings!
By implementing these tips, you'll not only reduce your TV's power consumption but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Start making these changes today and watch both your energy bills and environmental footprint decrease!
5. Most Energy Efficient TVs 2024 (Individual Reviews)
When evaluating the energy efficiency of TVs, Flatpanelshd utilizes a comprehensive methodology that includes key metrics:
1. Out of Box Consumption: This measures a TV's energy usage immediately upon unboxing, with the only adjustment being the deactivation of the light sensor.
2. Calibrated Consumption: This metric represents the average energy consumption after the TV undergoes picture calibration. The aim is to achieve a consistent brightness level, facilitating comparisons between different TVs. Calibration can have a considerable impact, as attested by the differences between out-of-box and calibrated usage.
3. Power per Area: This metric normalizes energy consumption, allowing for easier comparisons across various TV size classes. It is important to note that the actual value is meaningful only in relative terms for comparing TVs.
4. Annual Cost: Flatpanelshd calculates the annual cost of using the TV based on a presumed 5-hour daily usage and an energy cost of 14 cents per kWh. Stand-by consumption is not included in this calculation.
Regarding EU energy labels, it is essential to distinguish between standard energy consumption and energy usage with HDR, as the latter offers a more precise representation, particularly in the context of prevalent high-quality content streaming.
Among TV brands, LG, Samsung, and Sony stand out as the top three, renowned for delivering an exceptional viewing experience. These brands will be the main ones we consider in our review.
6. Sustainable TV: Which TV To Pick? 🤔
LED backlight is a major factor in TV power consumption. Brighter pictures generally require more power. Larger screen sizes demand more power, regardless of brightness per square inch. Opt for a modest screen size to enhance energy efficiency. Adjust brightness based on ambient lighting conditions. OLED displays tend to use slightly less power than other types. Smaller TVs mounted closer can contribute to reduced power consumption. Consider the annual cost measured in kWh for a comprehensive overview of consumption. Note that power consumption may vary based on content, such as HDR.
6.1 Size and Energy Rating
Explore TVs in the 55-inch range and pay attention to their energy ratings. While finding highly-rated energy-efficient TVs may be challenging, a careful search could yield suitable options.
6.2 Question Accuracy of Ratings
Be aware that energy ratings may not always accurately reflect real-world energy consumption. Look for user reviews or additional information to validate the energy efficiency claims of a TV.
6.3 Brightness Settings Impact
Understand that adjusting the brightness settings of your TV can have a notable impact on energy consumption. Opt for TVs that offer customizable brightness options to align with your preferences.
6.4 Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of TV energy consumption. In some cases, the wasted energy is emitted as heat, potentially contributing to savings in heating bills, especially in colder climates.
6.5 Source of Electricity
If possible, choose a TV with consideration for the source of electricity. Switching to renewable energy sources can significantly reduce the environmental footprint associated with TV energy use.
6.6 Renewal of Energy Ratings
Keep in mind that energy ratings may have been recently renewed. TVs that were highly rated in the past might have different ratings now, so verify the current energy efficiency status of a TV model.
6.7 Later Models Are Often Better
Opting for the latest TV models is generally a more energy-efficient choice. Therefore, it is advisable to either wait for the release of new models or consider purchasing a 2023 model instead of one from 2022 or earlier.
Closing Thoughts 💭
The primary factor in identifying the most energy-efficient TV often revolves around the product's commendable energy efficiency labels, especially applicable to 32-inch LED/LCD screens. OLEDs and Mini LED TVs, which provide superior picture quality, are generally more energy-efficient. However, this advantage is somewhat offset by the larger screen size and higher brightness levels typical of these models compared to entry-level TVs. Despite Mini LED TVs consuming more power than OLEDs, they still exhibit greater energy efficiency compared to traditional LED displays.
When selecting the ideal TV, it is prudent to assess both hourly and yearly energy consumption metrics. It's crucial to recognize that energy efficiency is not the sole factor influencing environmental impact. The carbon footprint and the energy source used to power the TV also wield considerable influence. Achieving a balance between a top-notch visual experience and a TV with lower power consumption is recommended for a more sustainable choice.
The energy efficiency of TVs is indicated by star ratings, providing a convenient way to compare similar products based on capacity and features.
A higher star rating signifies lower energy consumption, translating to cost savings in operation.
Energy labels, ranging from A to G, are assigned after testing appliances for typical energy use, with A being the most efficient and G the least.
Modern LED and LCD TVs are generally more energy-efficient, consuming between 50 to 200 watts, compared to older technologies like Plasma and CRT, which are notably less efficient.
Most TVs use less than one amp and operate on a 120-volt outlet.
2. What Is A Television Energy Efficiency Rating?
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The star rating shows the energy efficiency of a television. It allows you to compare the energy efficiency of products that have similar capacity and features.
The more stars, the less energy it uses and the cheaper it is to run.
3. Why Are OLED TVs Not Energy-Efficient?
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OLED TVs are less energy-efficient compared to LED/LCD panels. LED/LCD screens represent a significant improvement in efficiency over CFL backlit LCD screens.
While OLEDs offer a different panel technology, they consume considerably more power than LED/LCD screens, especially when producing bright and colorful content, such as 4K HDR videos.
In contrast, LED/LCD panels are more energy-efficient, and the introduction of Mini LED technology further enhances efficiency.
Plasma TVs may have lower power efficiency than OLEDs, especially when displaying dark pictures, but OLEDs generally require more power, particularly for demanding content like UHD HDR video.
4. Why Does OLED Consume More Power?
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OLED TVs consume more power than LCD TVs, particularly with bright or white content, as each pixel emits its own light, unlike LCDs that use a constant backlight.
The power consumption of OLED TVs depends on content, making them more efficient for darker scenes.
LEDs, less energy-efficient than OLEDs, require more power for the same brightness due to passing through LCD shutters.
OLED TVs have drawbacks, including a higher cost and limited brightness in HDR compared to high-end LED/LCD TVs.
5. Is Miniled Better Than OLED?
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Choosing between Mini LED and OLED hinges on priorities, with energy efficiency being a key factor.
OLED boasts vibrant colors and perfect blacks due to its 20,000 times more light sources.
In contrast, Mini LED, with 1,500 light sources, excels in lifespan and burn-in resistance.
Studies indicate Mini LED displays consume significantly less power than OLEDs, highlighting their efficiency.
While OLED is unmatched for contrast, Mini LED is a practical choice for those prioritizing energy efficiency, longevity, and resistance to burn-in.
The decision ultimately aligns with individual preferences, emphasizing OLED's picture quality or Mini LED's energy-efficient advantages.
6. Is Mini LED More Energy-Efficient?
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Mini-LEDs are generally more energy-efficient than traditional LEDs, offering enhanced control and energy savings with their smaller footprint.
Local dimming in Mini-LEDs allows for a reduction in brightness or complete turn-off when displaying dark images, contributing to improved energy efficiency.
While Mini LED TVs are more power-hungry than OLEDs, they remain more efficient than traditional LED displays.
The concerns about OLED lifespan, including potential burn-in issues, further highlight Mini LED's advantages.
Additionally, Mini LED TVs are less prone to burn-in compared to OLEDs, with image retention being less common and severe.
In summary, Mini-LED technology combines energy efficiency with improved display features, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing power conservation.
7. Which Is More Energy-efficient LED or LCD?
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LED TVs outshine LCDs in energy efficiency due to their light-emitting diode (LED) backlighting, replacing the less efficient fluorescent bulbs in LCDs.
A 32-inch LED TV consumes 10 watts less power than its LCD counterpart of the same size, and this energy-saving advantage scales with larger display sizes.
LEDs inherently produce light more efficiently than LCDs, resulting in notable power savings, particularly when compared to LCDs using Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamps (CCFL), with potential energy savings of up to 30%.
This makes LED screens a compelling choice for those seeking a more energy-efficient television option.
8. What Is The Best Energy Rating A or G?
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It is worth noting that many TVs often receive relatively low energy efficiency ratings due to their perceived higher energy consumption.
A consumption level of under 50 kWh is generally considered good for TVs.
However, with higher-end TVs, the energy efficiency ratings may decrease, especially when streaming 4K, 8K, or HDR content on larger OLED panels, despite their overall energy efficiency.
9. Is An F Energy Rating Good?
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It’s an ‘ok’ rating considering many TVs are rated G in Europe for example.
10. Which Is More Energy Efficient, OLED or QLED?
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QLED is a branding term employed by Samsung for their televisions incorporating quantum dot technology.
It has frequently been criticized as a marketing gimmick.
OLED is still deemed to be more energy-efficient based on several studies.
Park, W.Y. and Phadke, A.A., 2017. Adoption of energy-efficient televisions for expanded off-grid electricity service. Development Engineering, 2, pp.107-113. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.deveng.2017.07.002 [Accessed 10 September 2024].
