Smart TVs offer a range of features that can support quality family time. In this guide, find a range of set-top boxes and smart TVs perfect for your family, according to tech experts and parents.
Nowadays, most TVs are smart and allow us to access streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and BBC iPlayer. But being ‘smart’ goes beyond that. Some of these TVs support voice control, which means you can do pretty much everything you would with a regular remote, just by talking.
They also give parents far more control over what content their children can access and watch. Additionally, some Smart TVs allow you to monitor screen time and manage access through an app.
Just like computers, Smart TVs have access to the internet. The steps for setting up these controls may differ depending on the TV manufacturer, so it’s a good idea to consult the manual if you need guidance.
Depending on the service you’re using, you can also create separate user accounts and employ PINs to block children from accessing unsuitable content.
Set-top boxes, or set-top units, are a great alternative to smart TVs. They add smart elements to non-smart TVs. If you want the ability to watch streaming services on your TV that doesn’t have in-built features, set-top boxes are a good option.
Explore popular smart TVs for families and children.
Stream content straight from iPad or iPhone
Why it’s great for kids:
Encourages play: Packed with apps and games suitable for all the family. Including educational games that champion learning for children under four.
Voice search enabled: Using voice assistant Siri, users can search for games, TV shows and films, all without touching the keyboard.
Why it’s great for parents:
While the parental controls on the Apple TV don’t offer the same level of control found in the iOS Screen Time app, you can still manage content, block in-app purchases and remove inappropriate content. It is worth noting that these controls need to be set up and don’t come as standard.
Prices start from £169, it also comes with a bonus of 3 months of free Apple TV+ content.
Keep fit and play games, all through your TV
Why it’s great for kids:
Keep fit and play: Download and install apps from the Amazon App Store. This includes not only streaming apps but also games, fitness apps, and other utilities.
Voice search enabled: Using voice assistant Alexa, users can search for games, TV shows and films, all without touching the keyboard.
Why it’s great for parents:
The Amazon Fire TV has a robust set of parental controls with screen time limits, PIN-locked purchases and restrictions on search functionality to prevent children from searching for inappropriate content.
Prices start from £29
Ability to play games like Fortnite and Google Assistant built-in
Why it’s great for kids:
Access AAA games: Through Google Play Games, children can play AAA games like Fortnite and GeForce NOW. However, it’s worth noting that a controller is sold separately.
Voice search enabled: Control your SHIELD hands-free with Google Home or Alexa and Amazon Echo.
AI-enhanced resolution: With the help of AI, films from your childhood look better than you could have imagined, enhancing content into 4K resolution.
Why it’s great for parents:
With built-in restricted profiles, you can create an account that limits access to certain materials. However, this set-top is designed more with teens in mind, so it’s worth considering this before buying. You can also download a third profile app to monitor screen time.
Prices start from £189.99
Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED
Packed with features, crystal-clear resolution
Why it’s great for kids:
More than a TV: The Omni series is designed with a focus on lifestyle. It can display art or photos on its home screen and offers various Alexa screen widgets, including weather, calendars, and interactive notes – perfect for family reminders.
Voice search enabled: You can easily link it to your smart appliances like thermostats and security cameras. It’s also always listening for Alexa prompts and you can search your entire TV, hands-free.
Why it’s great for parents:
Just like the Fire Stick, Amazon Fire TV has a robust set of parental controls with screen time limits, PIN-locked purchases and restrictions on search functionality to prevent children from searching for inappropriate content.
Prices start from £499
A glossy do-it-all Smart TV
Why it’s great for kids:
Incredible picture quality: Kids can watch all of their favourite films in high resolution with incredible sound quality.
Voice search enabled: With voice control, you can go hands free when searching for content.
Why it’s great for parents:
While you’ll need to set up controls on each app, this TV offers a PIN service that puts parents in charge of what apps children can access. Plus, if you have Sky broadband, then you can simply add your Sky Glass TV to your monthly bill rather than paying for the TV upfront.
Prices start from £949
Great visuals and perfect for gaming
Why it’s great for kids:
AI enhancement: Every scene you watch is scanned by clever AI technology, which tweaks the picture and sound to give you the best brightness, contrast, and audio settings no matter when the film was made.
Go console-free: Once you connect your TV to the internet, you’ll be able to stream games from Xbox and other partnered services – no console required.
Why it’s great for parents:
Just like all Samsung TVs, the QN90C allows you to control exactly what your child is watching and manage in-app and film purchases. You can do this all with a handy PIN that ensures no inappropriate content is accessed.
Prices start from £1999
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