Sony Internet TV KDL-32EX720 <BK PICK>

This LCD HD TV allows you to surf the internet through built-in Wi-Fi, video confrence via Skype and track down extra online info about whatever is playing on your screen. For iPhone and Android users, you can also download the Media Remote app to transform your phone into a TV remote, or connect the screen to a VAIO for faster typing using the keyboard. The TV is also a certified DNLA (Digital Living Network Alliance) device, meaning you can stream content to it directly from your computer or even mobile device. The Sony TV requires an optional USB dongle to connect to Wi-Fi, like the other two (not included). Prices start at B36,740 for a 32-inch. Try Sony Center, G/F, Central Rama 3, 02-673-6221.

LG LV3730

Nearly half the price of the Sony, LG covers the basics: an Ethernet LAN cable and DNLA certification. Don’t want to run a cable from your modem to your TV? The Wi-Fi is optional, and works with a dongle that you plug into the USB port. The TV can access “exclusive” content from MThai and Nation Channel as well as some international portals dedicated to LG smart TVs but you’ll probably prefer surfing more popular sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Prices start from B19,900 for a 32-inch. Try Power Buy, 4/F Central World, 02-640-7000.

Samsung LED 9000 Series

Again, despite an Ethernet LAN port, this TV can only connect to a Wi-Fi network with an additional USB dongle, which means running a cable from your modem/router to your TV. It’s otherwise a gorgeous 3D HD TV, with a widget and app system to stream videos from YouTube or check your Facebook. Since Hulu and Netflix don’t work here, forget about streaming movies, though. Note that the TV is not DNLA compliant, meaning you’ll need to use Samsung’s AllShare software to stream videos from a separate device. Unfortunately, AllShare works on PCs and Samsung mobile phones only. B270,000 for a 55-inch. Try Samsung Brand Shop, 2/F Paragon, 02-690-1000.

Your Internet TV checklist
 
Wi-Fi
Without Wi-Fi, you’re going to have to connect your TV to your home modem/router with an Ethernet LAN cable. This could be fairly unsightly—or even impractical—depending on the distance between your TV and your modem. Wi-Fi is an elegant solution to the problem, but more importantly it allows for easier communication with your mobile devices, which is where DNLA comes in.

DNLA
The Digital Living Network Alliance is a standard that allows devices to share content with each other painlessly. Shot a video of your kids on your iPhone? Stream it directly to your TV over Wi-Fi. Downloaded a movie on your computer? Again, stream it straight to your TV. Beware of Samsung’s proprietary AllShare system which (despite its name) doesn’t work with non-Samsung phones and Apple computers.

Apps
Most internet TVs cover your favorite social media, like Facebook and Twitter, along with basic weather and news ticker functions. We think video streaming is actually more important than reading twitter feeds from your couch so don’t get too excited just because a TV has Facebook and Twitter stickers on it.