The best alternatives to 'brick' TVs

If you've been looking for an old 'brick' TV lately, you've probably noticed that they've disappeared. But that doesn't mean you're out of options. With a little effort and savvy, you can still pick up a display that skips all the Smart TV features  but still looks great.

 

5. You can still find non-smart TVs

Before exploring other alternatives to classic non-smart TVs, it's still worth looking for one. You might get lucky and stumble across one – perhaps even a new one, although those are becoming rarer these days. More realistically, you'll find refurbished or used models, which are honestly probably your best bet. You should also be prepared to trade off a few modern luxuries, like 4K resolution and larger screen sizes. Most Smart TVs these days max out at 1080p (and some are just 720p), with screen sizes rarely exceeding the 43-inch mark.

 

Start your search in familiar places like Amazon, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. If you can't find what you like, you can check out specialty electronics retailers or even the official websites of major brands. To make your search easier, use search terms like 'non-smart TVs' or use filters to weed out anything labeled 'smart.' Always read the product details carefully, as you don't want to accidentally buy a Smart TV in disguise.

4. CRT TV

 

CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) TVs may seem like a throwback to the past, but they are. They are a great off-the-shelf TV, and they really shine when it comes to retro gaming. Classic consoles like the SNES or Sega Genesis look great on a CRT. It's their natural habitat, so to speak.

But be warned: CRT monitors are heavy and bulky. As for resolution, you'll mostly be watching at 480i, so don't expect this to be a suitable monitor for your HD or 4K content.

3. Computer screen

Most modern displays offer great picture quality, low latency, and come in a variety of sizes, from compact 22-inch displays to massive 43-inch displays that rival traditional TVs. Plus, they're 'brick-and-mortar,' so you don't have to deal with or worry about tracking, forced updates, or built-in streaming apps. You get a simple display that does exactly what you want it to do.

 

When looking for a monitor specifically to use as a regular TV, look for one that has HDMI inputs so you can easily connect devices like streaming devices, Blu-ray players, or even cable boxes. Brands like Dell, ASUS, and LG offer solid monitor options at reasonable prices, and you'll often find better deals than TVs.

2. Projector

For the price of a mid-range TV, you can immerse yourself in a gorgeous 100-inch (or larger) home theater system using a regular projector. While high-end models are now labeled as smart, coming with built-in operating systems (usually Android TV ), wireless connectivity, and other features we're trying to avoid in Smart TVs, many mid-range and budget projectors are still "brick" by default.

For TV-like entertainment, pair the projector with a basic streaming device, DVD player, or cable box via HDMI and you're good to go. However, it's worth noting that projector speakers are often more of a convenience than a feature. You'll want to connect external audio, either via a 3.5mm jack or Bluetooth if supported.

1. Make Smart TV a "brick"

If you're stuck with a Smart TV you never wanted, don't worry—you can still "make it not smart." Start by skipping the Wi-Fi setup process entirely during installation. No internet means no automatic updates, targeted ads, or background data collection. If your TV requires connectivity, consider giving it a fake or firewalled network with a travel router or guest network that doesn't have internet access.

Next, turn off as many smart features as you can in the settings menu. Look for options like 'automatic app updates,' 'voice control,' 'diagnostics,' or 'viewing data,' and turn them all off. If your TV has a privacy or advertising section in its settings (it's usually hidden), go there and turn off everything you can.

If you want to skip the built-in software altogether, you can plug in a streaming device or any external device with an HDMI output. Then switch your TV input to that device and never look back.