Curve TV’s: Do they have a future?

The short answer…. no. The long answer takes a bit more time to explain. Curve TV’s are based on the Curved cinema screens that started in the 50’s, they were used to counter act image distortion and this is where curved TV’s claims of “better immersion” come from. To an extent a lot of these claims are actually true, but with smaller screens the difference is so minimal that it just doesn’t justify the extra money. Curve Tv's On that point lets look at cost. Curved screens cost more to manufacture and there for cost you more at the tills. They are also more expensive to pack (as they take up more box room) and although we don’t charge more to wall mount a curve TV they are certainly much more difficult to work with. Some of the most curved models actually need specialist brackets which can add a real cost to an already overly pricey set.

Mounting Curve Tv’s

Wall mounting is a big thing, people want wall mounted TV’s! They are safer around young children, they take up less room and some even let you adjust the angle of your screen without risking your TV. But with curve TV’s wall mounting actually limits you, the bend is more likely to pick up reflections and having it in one “set” place means you will probably get consistent problems with sun light. Reflections are another big complaint with curves, they may not get more reflections but when they do get them they are so much worse than a flat screen. If you do want a curve get a swivel bracket and try and place out of the line of direct sunlight, this will reduce a lot of your problems.

The Verdict

As much as I am saying that curve TV’s are in decline I have no doubt that you will still be able to find new models in years to come, mainly because people like them. The real reason you buy a curve TV is the same reason you buy a any piece of furniture in your house, because you like the way it looks, and there is nothing wrong with that! If you love the curved look then go for it, but understand that is why you are buying it, not for it’s features or it’s technical strengths but for it’s style (which I will admit, can be really beautiful).

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