Looking to transform your backyard into the ultimate entertainment hub? Choosing the best TV for outdoor use is crucial for creating an immersive viewing experience that stands up to the elements. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different outdoor television options — full-sun, partial-sun, and full-shade — so you can match your TV to your unique outdoor space.  

We’ll also cover what makes an indoor TV unsuitable for the yard, why moisture and dust protection matters, and which features — like IP rating, smart outdoor TV capabilities, and sound system integration — should top your shopping list. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to pick the best TV to use outside, what separates true outdoor models from their indoor counterparts, and why higher prices can translate into years of reliable performance.

  1. Why You Can’t Just Use an Indoor TV Outside
  2. Understanding Your Outdoor Environment: Full-Sun, Partial-Sun, & Full-Shade
  3. What Makes an Outdoor TV “Outdoor”?
  4. How to Match Your Outdoor Space with the Right TV
  5. Proper Installation & Mounting Location
  6. Enhancing Sound for Outdoor Viewing
  7. Protecting Your Investment: TV Cover & Maintenance
  8. Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor TVs

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Why You Can’t Just Use an Indoor TV Outside

At first glance, it might seem tempting to use your living room’s indoor TV on the patio. After all, the picture is fine and the price was reasonable. However, indoor TVs are designed for climate-controlled rooms and lack the durability you need for long-term outdoor enjoyment. Here’s why an indoor TV simply won’t cut it: 

  • Moisture and Dust: Outdoor environments introduce moisture and dust that can damage internal components. Even a light rain or morning dew can ruin a screen not rated for outdoor use, and blowing dust or insects can infiltrate tiny openings, leading to malfunctions. 

  • Temperature Extremes: Most indoor TVs aren’t built to handle extreme heat or cold. If your patio drops below freezing at night, or the summer sun beats down all afternoon, the internal electronics can fail, leading to costly repairs or replacements. 

  • Glare From the Sun: A typical indoor TV maxes out at around 250 nits of brightness. In direct sunlight, that level of brightness is woefully inadequate, making your screen look washed out, faded, or invisible. Outdoor-specific models can range from 400 to over 1,500 nits, ensuring a vivid picture no matter the time of day. 

  • No IP Rating: Even if an indoor TV seems to survive a rainy day under a patio roof, it won’t have an IP rating, or a standardized measure of protection against solids (like dust) and liquids. Without an IP rating, you have no way to know if the TV can handle splashes, humidity, or dust storms. 

  • No Safety Features: Indoor TVs often lack safety features like impact-resistant screens or reinforced enclosures. If a wayward baseball or flying stick hits the screen, you risk cracks or shattered glass — both safety hazards in an outdoor setting. 

Furrion Aurora weatherproof outdoor TV and soundbar

To enjoy movies, sports, or gaming on the patio without constant worry, you need a true outdoor model. These specialized outdoor televisions are built with rugged enclosures, weatherproof materials, and brightness levels designed for full-sun, partial-sun, or full-shade outdoor environments. Below, we’ll explain how to determine which environment fits your space, so you can confidently pick the best TV to use outside. 

Understanding Your Outdoor Environment: Full-Sun, Partial-Sun, & Full-Shade  

Before diving into specific features, ask yourself: how much direct sunlight will hit the screen throughout the day? Your answers determine which brightness level and protective features you need. Let’s explore the three main categories: 

Full-Shade TVs

A full-shade outdoor environment means your TV is completely sheltered from direct sunlight. Think of a covered patio, screened-in porch, or pergola with a roof. In these situations, your main enemy is wind-blown dust, rain splash, humidity, or insects — rather than bright sunlight. 

  • Brightness Needs: Because no sun hits the screen directly, you can get away with a lower brightness level (around 400 nits). This is more than standard indoor TV brightness (250 nits), but it prevents overkill that drives up higher prices. 

  • Protection: Look for an IP rating of at least IP54. This ensures the TV can resist dust (level five) and water splashes from any direction (level four). Even though your screen won’t bake in the sun, you still need to guard against moisture, humidity, and dirt. 

  • Placement Tips: Even in full-shade, consider adding a TV cover for added peace of mind, especially during storms or rain showers. A TV cover also shields against leaves, bird droppings, or misaligned garden sprinklers. 

  • Recommended Use: For uncovered nights or cooler months, a full-shade outdoor TV is perfect if you host evening movie nights under a sheltered pergola or covered deck. It balances durability, picture quality, and long-term value without the premium price of a high-brightness model. 

Outdoor TV in a fully shaded environment

Partial-Sun TVs

In a partial-sun location, your TV gets a mix of direct and indirect sunlight. For instance, your patio might be south facing in the morning, shaded by trees at midday, and partially shaded by an overhang in the late afternoon. A partial-sun model prepares the screen for unpredictable light levels throughout the day. 

  • Brightness Needs: Aim for a screen that outputs around 750 nits. This mid-level brightness lets the TV compete with changing skies — bright mornings, sunlit afternoons, and overcast evenings — so you won’t sacrifice picture quality as the sun moves. 

  • Protection: An IP rating of IP54 or better still applies. Even partial sunlight can bring heat, potential glare, and rising humidity. Insects, dust, and occasional rain still pose risks. 

  • Auto-Brightness Control: Choose a smart outdoor TV with ambient light sensors that automatically ramp screen brightness up or down as needed. This not only preserves picture quality but can extend the TV’s life by reducing internal heat when full brightness isn’t required. 

  • Placement Tips: Direct the screen away from windows or glass doors that bounce strong sunlight onto the screen. If possible, install the TV on a west or east-facing wall where direct afternoon sun isn’t constant. Still, buying an outdoor model with moderate brightness ensures you can enjoy content midday without squinting. 

  • Recommended Use: Ideal for open patios with partial overhead coverage — think a gazebo with open sides or a deck with a lattice roof. A partial-sun TV balances higher prices with better views when clouds clear or sun peaks through foliage. If you want the best TV to use outside year-round in a moderately sunny climate, this category offers great versatility. 

Outdoor smart TV in a partially sunny outside space

Full-Sun TVs

If your patio or backyard runs wide open with nothing to block the midday sun, you need a full-sun-rated TV. This means the screen will face direct, intense sunlight for hours. Only the brightest outdoor televisions can shine through without washout. 

  • Brightness Needs: Look for at least 1,000 nits (some models even top out at 1,500 nits). This ensures a crisp picture even at 2 p.m. on a cloudless day. Anything less, and you’ll end up with muted colors, faded blacks, and a generally unusable screen once the sun’s rays hit. 

  • Protection: Your IP rating requirement steps up from IP54 to preferably IP65. Level five dust protection is still mandatory, but level five or six water resistance (protection against strong water jets) adds an extra layer of defense against sudden storms, sprinkler system overspray, or backyard water fights. 

  • Extra Features: 

    • Impact Resistance: A more robust enclosure — rated IK08 or IK09 — protects against debris blown by gusty winds, stray balls, or low-hanging tree branches. Since outdoor TVs in full-sun often get no cover, an impact-resistant screen saves you headaches later. 

    • Extended Operating Temperature Range: Full-sun areas can easily hit 110°F or more. Choose a TV that offers performance from -24°F to 122°F to ensure it still works if you live in a place with cold winters and hot summers. 

  • Placement Tips: Mount the TV under a retractable awning or pergola when possible. Even the brightest TVs benefit from partial shading during peak sunlight to reduce glare, preserve screen longevity, and lower internal temperatures. If no cover is possible, confirm that the TV’s ventilation system allows for heat dissipation in a full-sun environment. 

  • Recommended Use: Perfect for fully exposed patios, rooftops, poolside lounges, or open decks where direct sun is unavoidable. If you entertain daily, love afternoon sports viewing, or plan on using the TV throughout summer, investing in a full-sun-optimized model is the only way to experience crisp details, bold colors, and long term reliability. 

Furrion TV in a fully sunny outdoor area

What Makes an Outdoor TV “Outdoor”?

When you search for the best TV to use outside, you’ll notice features you never considered for indoor models. Here’s what sets outdoor televisions apart: 

1. Weatherproof Housing

A true outdoor TV has a sealed enclosure that locks out moisture and dust. You’ll see ratings like IP54 or IP65 on spec sheets — these numbers tell you how well the unit resists dust ingestion (first digit) and water intrusion (second digit). For ultimate peace of mind, aim for: 

  • IP54: Protects against limited dust ingress and splashing water from any direction. 

  • IP65: Protects against full dust ingress and strong water jets from any direction. 

2. Temperature Tolerance

Unlike indoor counterparts, outdoor models advertise an operating range. You may see something like “-24°F to 122°F,” ensuring the unit still functions on freezing winter nights or scorching summer afternoons. This is crucial for long term performance — if the internal components freeze, you risk cracked solder joints or damaged electronic boards. If they overheat, you can face permanent screen discoloration or system failure.

3. High Brightness (Nits Rating)

The brightness, or number of nits, dictates how well the screen fights ambient light. While living room TVs average 250-300 nits, outdoor televisions begin at 400 nits and scale up based on sun exposure needs: 

  • 400 nits for full-shade outdoor setups 

  • 750 nits for partial-sun environments 

  • 1,000-1,500 nits for direct or full-sun areas 

4. Impact Resistance

Outdoor screens might get dinged by falling branches, stray sports equipment, or even an errant insect landing at high speed. Some premium models feature IK08-rated impact resistance — an industrial standard that ensures the screen can withstand up to 5 joules of impact. This robust glass layer adds peace of mind, especially if you have kids playing or you frequently grill near the screen. 

5. Corrosion-Resistant Materials

Rust can wreak havoc on metal components. To avoid corrosion, look for models that use stainless steel screws, aluminum alloy frames, or coated metals. These materials prevent salt, humidity, or rain from causing long-term rust.

6. Smart Functionality

A smart outdoor TV comes ready to stream content without extra boxes dangling outside. These models typically feature: 

  • Preloaded streaming apps (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube, and more). 

  • External antennas for boosted WiFi and Bluetooth® signal strength, making up for the fact that your router is likely indoors behind at least one wall. 

  • Voice assistant compatibility (Alexa, Google Assistant) so you can control volume or switch inputs without having to grab a remote control. 

7. Easy Maintenance

Outdoor screens can get splashed by sprinklers or splattered with food and drinks. Look for units with tempered or forgiving glass that wipes clean with mild detergent, as well as removable vents or filters that allow you to clear out accumulated dust easily. A good TV cover also extends maintenance intervals by blocking dirt and UV rays when the TV is off. 

Kids playing with water near a Furrion Aurora weatherproof outdoor TV

8. Additional Audio Options

In an outdoor space, sound dissipates more quickly. Most outdoor models include some form of built-in speakers, but for a theater-like ambiance, consider adding a dedicated outdoor speaker or sound system. Some models even offer integrated subwoofers in a rugged housing, or pairing options with proprietary outdoor speaker systems that sync wirelessly, ensuring crisp dialogue and booming bass without sacrificing durability. 

Now that you know what makes a TV genuinely a true outdoor unit, let’s dive into how to select the best TV to use outside based on your specific outdoor setup. 

How to Match Your Outdoor Space with the Right TV 

Assessing Your Outdoor Space

Before clicking “add to cart,” walk through these questions to determine exactly what type of TV you need: 

  1. How Much Direct Sunlight? 

    • Observe your patio or yard during different times of day. Does the sun sail across the sky and hit the future TV location from midday until dusk? That’s full-sun.
    • If sunlight hits only during the morning hours and is blocked by trees or structures in the afternoon, that’s partial-sun.
    • If an overhead roof, awning, or thick canopy blocks the sun all day, your area is full-shade. 

  1. Size of the Outdoor Space 

    • Viewing Distance: If your seating is 8-10 feet from the screen, a 55-65-inch TV is ideal. If you’re 15+ feet away, consider a 75-inch or larger. Outdoor furniture often sits farther back than living rooms, so measure accordingly and factor in how wide your patio or deck is. 

    • Wall Strength and Mounting Area: Check if your wall can support large TVs. Brick, cement, or studs behind siding can hold heavier loads. If you’re mounting on a thin fence or unreinforced wall, you may need to install a sturdy TV mount bracket into structural studs or reinforce with plywood backing. 

  1. Weather Patterns in Your Region 

If you live somewhere with sudden, heavy downpours, factor in higher IP rating (IP65 over IP54). In drier, dustier areas, prioritize dust sealing. Coastal regions need marine-grade coatings to resist salt corrosion. 

  1. Budget Considerations 

Higher prices often correspond to higher brightness (nits), more robust IP rating, and better impact resistance. Setting a budget early helps narrow choices. If you need a 1,500-nit full-sun TV, prepare to spend more than a 400-nit full-shade outdoor model. Also, include costs for a quality TV cover, outdoor speaker, and professional installation if needed. 

Furrion Aurora outdoor smart TV

Selecting Based on Sun Exposure 

Once you know your sunlight scenario, match it to the ideal brightness and protection level: 

  • Full-Shade (400 Nits, IP54)

    • Best for:

      • Covered patios, porches, and pergolas with roofs

      • Areas that never receive direct sunlight (even reflected glare) 

    • Look for:

      • 400-nit minimum brightness

      • IP54 or higher protection against moisture and dust

      • Tempered glass, anti-reflective coating to minimize any faint reflections from nearby windows or light fixtures 

    • Why choose:

      • You save money compared to full-sun models

      • No need for bulky cooling systems — internal heat buildup is minimal since there’s no direct sun

      • Great long-term value if you mostly watch in the evenings or under cover

  • Partial-Sun (750 Nits, IP54/IP65)

    • Best for:

      • Patios with partial overhead covers, like gazebos, awnings, or pergolas with slatted roofs

      • Decks with tall trees casting intermittent shade and sun

    • Look for:

      • Around 750 nits for crisp visibility during bright mornings/afternoons

      • IP54 is often adequate, but if you anticipate high humidity or more wind-blown rain, upgrade to IP65

      • Auto-brightness control to adjust in real time as clouds pass or sun angles shift

      • Impact-resistant glass (IK08 or IK09) to protect against stray debris or errant balls

    • Why choose:

      • Balanced cost and performance for most climates

      • Enough brightness to counter mild, daily sun exposure without paying for a 1,500-nit full-sun model

      • Ideal for family homes where the patio gets intermittent light

  • Full-Sun (1,000-1,500 Nits, IP65/IP66)

    • Best for:

      • Uncovered decks, open courtyards, poolside cabanas, and rooftops

    • Look for:

      • Minimum 1,000 nits (1,200 to 1,500 nits preferably)

      • IP65 or IP66 for superior protection against heavy rain or sprinkler systems

      • IK08 or IK09-rated impact resistance in the glass to safeguard against flying objects

      • Extended operating temperature range (–24°F to 122°F) if you have cold winters and hot summers

    • Why choose:

      • No shadows or overhangs to rely on; the screen needs to outshine the sun directly

      • Offers clarity even during the brightest hours of midday

      • Though prices are higher, the vibrant picture quality in harsh sunlight is unmatched, delivering an engaging outdoor theater experience 

Setting Up Your Outdoor TV for Years of Enjoyment

Two people covering an outdoor TV with a TV cover

Proper Installation & Mounting Location

Once you’ve selected the best TV for outdoor use, installation can make or break your experience. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe, long-lasting setup: 

  1. Choose the Right Wall

    • Mount on a solid surface—brick, stucco over solid backing, or wooden studs behind siding. Avoid thin fences or unsupported panels.
    • Measure height carefully. The ideal eye level for outdoor couches or chairs is slightly higher than for indoor setups, since outdoor furniture often sits lower to the ground. 

  1. Use a High-Quality Mounting Bracket 

    • A full-motion mount lets you swivel the TV 90° left or right, which is handy if you have multiple seating areas or a wraparound deck. 

    • A ceiling full-motion mount is an option for overhanging roofs or pergolas where wall space is limited, providing a 360° adjustable viewing angle. 

  1. Check for Ventilation 

    • Even outdoor TVs generate heat. Ensure your chosen location allows air to circulate around the back of the enclosure. 

    • Avoid mounting too close to heat sources, like grills, fire pits, or direct fireplaces. Excessive heat around the housing can shorten component life. 

  1. Conceal & Protect Cables 

    • Use outdoor-rated HDMI cables, power cables, and Ethernet cables. 

    • Place cords inside a weatherproof conduit or cable channel to avoid water ingress, insect nests, or accidental tripping hazards. 

  1. Install Surge Protection 

    • Lightning strikes or electrical spikes can ruin expensive outdoor TVs in moments. 

    • Add a weatherproof surge protector between the power source and the TV. Some units even come with integrated surge protection — verify this before skipping extra safeguards. 

  1. Angle for Optimal Viewing 

    • Outdoor furniture often changes by season. Tilt the TV down about 5-10° if viewers will be seated lower than eye height. 

    • If in a partial-sun or full-sun environment, angle the TV slightly away from direct light to minimize glare from the sun without compromising brightness.

Enhancing Sound for Outdoor Viewing

Even the best TV to use outside may not deliver theater-quality sound on its own. Open-air acoustics disperse sound waves rapidly, so consider these options: 

  • Built-In Outdoor Speaker Pairs 
    Some outdoor TVs come with matched outdoor speaker sets that clip onto the sides or bottom of the TV enclosure. These are weatherproof, easy to mount, and designed to project sound farther than typical built-in speakers. 

  • Wireless Outdoor Soundbar 
    Ideal if you want deeper bass and richer midrange. Look for IP45-rated housings on soundbars to match or exceed your TV’s IP rating. Many connect to the TV via Bluetooth® or a short HDMI cable, so there’s no exposed wiring. 

  • Full Outdoor Sound System 
    For large decks or open gardens, a set of outdoor speaker towers or satellite speakers can simulate a surround-sound environment. Pair with an outdoor-rated subwoofer housed near the TV or under a patio table. Ensure all components join the same ecosystem (e.g., all from the same brand for seamless pairing). 

 Protecting Your Investment: TV Cover & Maintenance

Outdoor TVs may be built tough, but a quality TV cover extends the lifespan in subtle ways: 

  • UV Protection: Prolonged UV exposure can discolor enclosures and degrade rubber seals over time, even on high-end models. A TV cover shields the screen and casing from harmful rays when the unit is off. 

  • Dust and Debris: Leaves, pollen, bird droppings, and insects can accumulate on the screen. While a quick wipe helps, leaving a cover on prevents buildup that could scratch the glass when cleaning. 

  • Winter Storage: In colder climates, leaving the TV out all winter can invite moisture into tiny cracks. A weatherproof TV cover prevents snow from building up on vents and seals, reducing freeze-thaw damage. 

  • Easy Cleaning: With a TV cover, you only need to remove it, wipe away minimal dust, and you’re ready to use your TV — saving time compared to heavy scrubbing if left exposed. 

Final Thoughts: Investing in the Best TV to Use Outside

By following these guidelines, you’ll find the best TV to use outside for your unique setting — whether you have a tree-shaded deck, a partially covered patio, or a fully sun-soaked poolside cabana. Investing thoughtfully in features like brightness, IP rating, and durability ensures your new TV not only dazzles with crystal-clear images but also stands up to wind, rain, dust, and scorching heat for years to come. Now, grab your favorite beverage, invite some friends, and get ready to host the ultimate outdoor viewing party under the open sky. 

A couple grilling outside while watching TV

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor TVs

What makes a TV suitable for outdoor use?

A model designed for outdoor use features a rugged, weatherproof enclosure, an IP rating to resist moisture and dust, a higher brightness rating (nits), temperature tolerance, and often impact-resistant glass. Unlike an indoor TV, a true outdoor television withstands rain, dust, humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and glare from the sun — all while delivering a bright, vibrant picture in open-air settings.

Do I need a remote control specifically designed for outdoor TVs?

Ideally, yes. Outdoor remotes often feature sealed buttons or waterproof coatings so they keep working even if you have wet hands or accidentally drop them in a puddle. While many indoor remotes work fine under cover, having a weatherproof remote control ensures consistent operation when you get splashed by the pool or caught in a sudden shower.

How do I choose between a sound system or built-in speakers?

If your patio is small and moderately covered, built-in speakers on a quality outdoor TV may suffice. For larger, more open outdoor space or if you host movie nights with multiple guests, invest in a dedicated outdoor speaker or sound system. Matching brands between TV and speaker often simplifies setup, while wireless options reduce cable clutter.

Are smart features important for an outdoor TV?

Absolutely. An integrated smart outdoor TV platform means you don’t need extra equipment (like streaming boxes) hanging off the back. Look for preloaded apps (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube) and robust WiFi or Bluetooth® antennas. Since your router is indoors, a TV with external antennas ensures a stable connection, even through walls.

How important is the IP rating?

Critical. The IP rating tells you exactly how well the TV fends off dust and water. At minimum, choose IP54 for residential patios. If sprinklers, coastal salt spray, or frequent downpours are concerns, upgrade to IP65. For extreme commercial or exposed rooftop installations, consider IP66+ to keep dust and powerful water jets out.

What about higher prices? Why do outdoor TVs cost more?

Outdoor TVs use specialized materials — weatherproof plastics or metals, sealed gaskets, reinforced glass, corrosion-resistant metals — and undergo additional testing for impact, dust ingress, and water resistance. They also pack brighter panels to combat sunlight, and often include features like auto-brightness control and improved cooling. These design elements drive up manufacturing costs, which translates to higher prices, but ensure years of reliable, hassle-free use.

How do I maintain an outdoor TV for the long term?

Regularly check the enclosure seals for cracks, keep ventilation openings clear, and wipe the screen to remove dust or pollen. Use a quality TV cover when the TV is inactive, especially during inclement weather or off-seasons. Inspect and clean power and HDMI cables, ensuring they remain weatherproof. 

Shop Outdoor TVs & Accessories

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