Smart TVs for Seniors: A Friendly Guide and Top Picks (Australia)

Modern smart TVs can open up a world of entertainment for seniors. From catching up on favourite shows to video chatting with family, today’s TVs do much more than just show the standard channels. However, they can also feel overwhelming if you’re not a tech whiz. In this guide, we’ll explain what smart TVs can do for seniors, what features to look for, and recommend five of the best senior-friendly smart TVs (new models from the last year, all available in Australia). We’ll keep things easy to understand, so you can confidently choose a TV that fits your needs.

What Can Smart TVs Do for Seniors?

Endless Entertainment: A smart TV connects to the internet, meaning you can watch not only free-to-air broadcasts but also content from streaming apps like ABC iview, Netflix, YouTube, and more – all without needing an extra device. You can enjoy classic movies, catch up on missed episodes, or even listen to music on your TV. If you still love your regular channels, don’t worry – smart TVs have built-in tuners for the antenna, so you can watch all the normal Australian TV stations live just like on an old TV (and even use catch-up TV apps later at your leisure).

Easy Video Calling: Some newer smart TVs (or compatible camera accessories) allow you to make video calls using apps like Skype or Zoom. This can be a wonderful way to see your family’s faces on a big screen. For example, certain models even have built-in cameras and one-touch call features for family chats or telehealth appointments right from your living room.

Simpler Controls: Many smart TVs offer voice control – you can speak to the remote to change channels or search for a show, instead of fiddling with complex menus. If using a remote control is difficult for you, this is a game-changer. You can say things like “Play The Crown on Netflix” or “Volume up” and the TV will do it. Plus, the remotes themselves are getting friendlier – some have larger buttons and clearer labels for easy reading. (In fact, LG even previewed an “Easy TV” with 27% bigger remote buttons and a simpler interface for older adults, showing how companies are trying to make TVs more senior-friendly.)

Smart Home and Safety Features: A smart TV can also integrate with other devices if you wish. For instance, you could view pictures from your smartphone on the TV, or see who’s at the front door if you have a smart doorbell. Some televisions let you set daily reminders (e.g. for medications or appointments) that pop up on screen. While these features are optional, they can add convenience and even a sense of security – your TV becomes a bit like a helpful assistant.

In short, a smart TV can keep you entertained, informed, and connected – all from the comfort of your couch. The key is finding one that’s easy to use and suits your needs. Next, let’s look at what to consider when choosing a senior-friendly TV.

What to Look For in a Senior-Friendly TV

Picking a TV involves more than just screen size. Here are the most important factors (in plain English) to help older viewers enjoy a hassle-free experience:

• Simple Interface: Look for a TV with an easy-to-navigate menu. You shouldn’t have to dig through endless confusing icons to find the news. Televisions that run straightforward smart platforms (like an uncluttered Home screen) are ideal. For example, some systems display your apps and inputs clearly on one screen, rather than hiding them in sub-menus. The goal is a menu that makes it quick to get to what you want – whether it’s live TV, Netflix, or your HDMI input.
• Easy-to-Use Remote: The remote control can make or break the experience. Big, high-contrast buttons and simple layouts are best. Many newer remotes forego the old number pad in favour of just a few large buttons for volume, channels, and a microphone for voice commands. Some remotes even have backlighting, so you can see the buttons at night, and dedicated buttons for popular apps (like YouTube or Prime Video). A basic, ergonomic remote that fits comfortably in your hand will save a lot of frustration. (And if you misplace it, some TVs allow limited control via a smartphone or have a remote-finder function.)
• Voice Control & Assistants: As mentioned, having built-in voice control is a big plus. TVs that work with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or have their own voice search let you change settings or find shows just by speaking. This can be much easier than remembering which button does what. You can ask your TV for weather updates, to set reminders, or just to switch to channel 2 without pressing a thing. It’s like talking to a helpful butler inside your TV!
• Screen Size and Clarity: Bigger is usually better up to a point – you want a screen large enough that you can comfortably see details and read text (like news tickers or program guides) from your sofa. A simple way to choose size is consider the distance from your chair to the TV: divide that distance (in centimetres) by 2 to get a rough screen size in cm (or by 5 to get size in inches). For example, if you sit ~3 metres (300 cm) away, a ~60-inch (150 cm) TV is a good ballpark. For many living rooms, 55–65 inches is popular, whereas in a smaller room or retirement unit, a 32–43 inch set might suffice. Also, prefer at least 4K resolution on mid-to-large TVs – this simply means a sharper picture so things are easier to see. (Even if you don’t watch 4K content, these TVs make regular HD channels look clearer through upscaling.)
• Brightness and Picture Quality: A bright screen with good contrast helps if you often watch during the day or in well-lit rooms. LED/LCD TVs with QLED or mini-LED technology tend to get very bright, which means you won’t struggle to see the picture on a sunny afternoon. High contrast (deeper blacks, brighter whites) also adds to clarity – for instance, white subtitles will stand out better against a dark background. Many modern TVs easily have enough brightness for everyday viewing; as a guide, something around 500 nits or more is great for daytime use. If you have vision difficulties, consider this spec or ask in-store for a demo in bright lighting. Anti-glare screens are another bonus feature on some models that can reduce reflections from windows and lights.
• Sound Quality (Clear Audio): Seniors often cite sound as a major concern – it’s important to hear dialogue clearly. Check if the TV offers any “dialogue enhancement” or clear voice modes in its audio settings. These features boost speech frequencies so that newsreaders, movie dialogue, and sport commentary come through crisply without needing to crank the volume. TVs with larger built-in speakers or even subwoofers can provide richer, fuller sound (some high-end models have multiple speakers for surround effects). For most though, a mid-range TV with decent stereo speakers will do fine in a small room. Remember, you can always add a soundbar or use headphones (Bluetooth wireless headphones can pair with most smart TVs) if you need extra volume or clarity. The key is that the TV’s own speakers should be at least clear enough for regular use.
• Connectivity & Expandability: Don’t overlook the ports and connectivity. Make sure the TV has enough HDMI inputs if you plan to connect things like a DVD player, pay TV box, or sound system. If you have older equipment (like a VCR or camcorder) that uses analog outputs, look for a TV that still includes composite or component input jacks – these are rarer on newer sets, so you might need an adapter. All smart TVs have Wi-Fi for internet; some also have an Ethernet port if you prefer a wired connection. Also, consider if the TV supports Bluetooth – this allows connecting wireless headphones or hearing aids directly to the TV’s sound. Many models do, which can be incredibly useful for private listening or for those with hearing impairments.
• Accessibility Features: The best TVs for seniors include helpful accessibility settings. For example, closed captions (subtitles for everything) are standard and easy to toggle on/off. Some TVs go further with options like audio description (narration of on-screen actions for the visually impaired) and voice guidance that can read menus out loud. High-contrast or enlarged text modes in the menus can make navigation easier on the eyes. If these are important to you, check the user manual or ask if the TV has an “Accessibility” menu. Brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony usually have a suite of such features you can customize to your needs.
• Reliability and Support: Finally, stick with known brands or models that have good customer reviews, and ensure there is a warranty and support network in Australia. It’s reassuring to know you can call the manufacturer’s support line or your local retailer if you have setup questions or if something goes wrong. Some retailers even offer installation services – it might be worth it to have a professional set it up and give you a quick tutorial. Peace of mind is part of a good purchase for seniors.

With these considerations in mind, let’s move on to some specific TV models that fit the bill. We’ve selected a range of the top new smart TVs (2024-2025 releases) that are especially suitable for older viewers. Each of these picks is available in Australia, and comes with features that make TV watching easy, enjoyable, and senior-friendly.

Top 5 Smart TV Picks for Seniors (New Models)

Below are five of our recommended televisions for seniors, each with a brief description of why it’s a great choice. We’ve included links to the official manufacturer pages for more details on each TV. These models range in size and price, so you can find something that suits your space and budget. All of them have 4K resolution and the smart features we’ve discussed.

LG 65-inch C4 OLED evo (2024 model)

OLED TVs are famous for their stunning picture quality, and this LG C4 is no exception – it delivers rich colours and truly deep blacks that make movies and nature documentaries look spectacular. For seniors, the LG C4 stands out because of its user-friendly webOS software and Magic Remote. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, with large app icons and an easy settings menu. The Magic Remote can point like a mouse on the screen, which many find intuitive, and it also supports voice commands (just speak into it to search for shows or adjust volume). This TV’s built-in α9 AI Processor Gen7 not only makes the picture sharp, but it also enhances dialogue audio, so speech comes through clearly even in busy scenes. If you enjoy video calls or smart home features, LG’s ThinQ AI platform integrates with those as well – but if not, it stays out of the way. The C4 series has a sleek, slim design with very thin bezels (so nearly the whole front is screen), which is elegant in the living room. It’s worth noting OLED screens aren’t as glaringly bright as some LED TVs, but the C4 has a Brightness Booster feature to ensure daytime viewing is comfortable. Overall, this TV feels premium yet simple to use, and LG even includes quick access buttons for Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc., on the remote for one-press opening. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for picture, sound, and ease of operation. Product page: https://www.lg.com/au/tv-soundbars/oled-evo-tv/oled65c4psa/

Samsung 65-inch QN90C Neo QLED (2023)

Samsung Australia product page
If you often watch TV during the day or in a bright room, this Samsung Neo QLED is a brilliant choice. The QN90C uses Mini LED backlight technology, which means it can get extremely bright and has excellent anti-reflection properties – you’ll have no trouble seeing the screen clearly on a sunny Queensland afternoon. Its colours are vivid and punchy, and it has wide viewing angles (so it still looks great even if you’re watching from the side of the room). For seniors, one big plus is Samsung’s One Remote design: it’s a simple, slim remote with just a few essential buttons and a built-in microphone. It even recharges itself via room light, so you won’t need to change batteries. The TV’s software (Samsung’s Tizen smart platform) is snappy and presents your most-used apps and live TV in a straightforward hub menu. There are built-in voice assistants – you can choose Samsung’s own, or use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant – to search for shows or ask general questions hands-free. Another advantage of the QN90C is its audio: it features something called “Object Tracking Sound”, which means the TV’s multiple speakers create a surround sound effect that makes it easier to hear where sounds are coming from (helpful for immersion, but also clarity). Dialogue is crisp, and if you ever need more volume or bass, the TV can easily connect to a soundbar wirelessly via Bluetooth. Samsung also provides a dedicated “Accessibility” menu with options like voice guide (which will read out on-screen text) and high-contrast settings for menus – reflecting the company’s effort to accommodate older users. All in all, this Neo QLED model is powerful yet approachable: you get top-of-the-line picture and sound with a friendly interface. It is a bit pricier due to the advanced tech, but in return you get a TV that will likely serve you well for many years (and firmware updates to keep features current). Samsung have these: https://www.samsung.com/au/tvs/qled-tv/qn90c-65-inch-neo-qled-4k-smart-tv-qa65qn90cawxxy/

Sony 55-inch X85L Full Array LED (2023)

Sony’s Bravia TVs have a strong reputation for quality, and the X85L is a fantastic mid-range set that balances performance with simplicity – an excellent option for seniors. This model uses Full Array LED backlighting, which basically means the screen’s lighting is uniform and dynamically adjusts to on-screen content, giving you high contrast with deep blacks and bright highlights. The result is a very clear and life-like picture, whether you’re watching a dark drama or a bright cricket match. Where the Sony X85L truly shines for senior users is in its software: it runs on Google TV, which has a very straightforward and content-focused interface. The home screen displays your apps (Freeview, ABC, Netflix, etc.) and personalized recommendations in large tiles that are easy to read. If you have an Android phone or an iPhone, you can also “cast” photos or videos from it to the TV easily thanks to built-in Chromecast and Apple AirPlay support – great for viewing family photos on the big screen. The Sony remote control is a more traditional style but with large, well-labelled buttons (and Sony now often includes a lighter, simpler second remote with fewer buttons too). It has a microphone for Google Assistant – you can press the voice button and ask for a specific show or even ask the TV to tune to “ABC TV” and it will do so. Seniors with hearing difficulties will appreciate Sony’s sound processing: this TV features ClearAudio+ and Dolby Atmos support, which work together to make speech distinct against background sounds. Sony TVs are also known for their motion smoothing – fast movements (like sports or scrolling text) appear very smooth, reducing eye strain. Another thoughtful feature is the TV’s ambient light sensor, which can subtly adjust screen brightness to your room, so it’s never too harsh or too dim. The X85L includes all the apps most people need and is ready for Freeview as well, so you can access catch-up services for Channels 7, 9, 10, ABC, SBS easily. Setup is straightforward with on-screen wizards guiding you. With Sony’s build quality and the X85L’s focus on core performance and ease-of-use, you’ll find it a reliable companion for daily entertainment. Product page: https://store.sony.com.au/television-4K-X8500/KD65X85L.html

Hisense 65-inch U8Q Mini-LED ULED TV (2024/2025)

Hisense has been making waves by offering high-end features at more affordable prices, and the U8Q is their flagship that’s ideal for seniors who want a large, bright TV that’s great value. This 65-inch TV uses Mini-LED Pro backlighting with Quantum Dot (ULED is Hisense’s term for their advanced LED tech). In simple terms, the screen can reach exceptional brightness (up to 5,000 nits peak in some test modes!), and it handles glare well. If you have a bright living area or enjoy watching with the lights on, the U8Q ensures a clear picture without you needing to squint. It also has an Anti-Reflection screen that cuts down mirror-like reflections from windows. The colours are vivid and true-to-life (Hisense even boasts Pantone colour certification for accuracy). Now, let’s talk ease of use: the Hisense U8Q runs on VIDAA U (Version 9), which is Hisense’s own smart TV platform designed to be easy, fast, and secure. The interface is very straightforward – typically a row of your favourite apps and inputs, and not much clutter. It’s perfect if you find some other brands’ menus too busy. This TV also supports VIDAA Voice control, so you can use voice commands for searching content or controlling the TV in multiple languages. In fact, it has Alexa built-in and works with Google Home too, if you prefer those ecosystems. One standout feature of the Hisense U8Q for seniors is its audio system – it’s equipped with a 4.1.2 multichannel speaker setup including up-firing speakers. In plain language, it’s trying to simulate a mini home theatre, with better bass and surround effects than typical flat-panel TVs. You’ll notice clearer voices and a richer sound without any additional soundbar, which is great if you have trouble hearing thin TV audio. The remote control has large buttons and also supports voice input. Additionally, the U8Q has plenty of ports (4 HDMI and 2 USB, among others), so it’s easy to hook up a DVD player or other devices. For everyday seniors’ use – watching news, movies, sports – this TV excels, and its price point is usually more forgiving than the Samsungs and LGs of the world, all while delivering comparable tech. It’s a big, bright screen that’s built to impress but also to simplify life with its no-nonsense menu system. product page: https://hisense.com.au/product/65U8QAU/65%22-uled-miniled-u8qau-4k-qled-165hz-smart-tv

Samsung 32-inch QLED Q60 Series (2024)

Not every senior wants or needs a gigantic TV. For a bedroom, kitchen, or smaller living space, this 32-inch Samsung QLED TV is a gem – it’s one of the few 32″ TVs that offers 4K resolution and QLED technology for a bright, sharp picture in a compact size. We include it in our top picks because it’s perfect for those who find a 50+ inch screen overwhelming or simply don’t have the wall space. Despite its smaller stature, it doesn’t compromise on features. The Q60 series uses Samsung’s Quantum Dot tech, so you get brilliant colours and clarity. It’s also plenty bright for its size; you won’t have trouble seeing details even in a well-lit room, and importantly, the viewing angles are generous (you can watch from the side without the picture washing out). Being a Samsung smart TV, it comes with the same Tizen smart interface and One Remote as its bigger siblings. That means a simple experience – the Home screen will show your apps, inputs, and recommendations in an easy menu, and the One Remote has very few buttons to navigate mistakes. You can also use voice commands here, just like on the larger Samsung we described earlier. For instance, you can ask “Play Channel 9” or “Open YouTube” and it’ll comply. Seniors will love that this little TV can act big: it has Object Tracking Sound Lite for clear audio and even a Game Mode (if grandkids connect a console or if you play casual games). Setup is a breeze – it’s lightweight and can be placed on a dresser or mounted easily. Another benefit: because it’s Samsung, it includes all major streaming and Freeview apps out of the box (no need for additional dongles or cables). This model proves that small TVs can still be smart and high-quality. It’s an excellent choice if you want something manageable in size that still has all the modern conveniences. Perhaps you just want a television for the bedroom to watch ABC News or SBS on Demand – this will do that and more, with top-notch picture and sound for its class. And if your eyesight isn’t what it used to be, don’t worry: the 4K sharpness on a 32-inch screen makes text and images very crisp when you sit at a shorter distance, so you might actually find this easier to view than a larger 1080p (Full HD) TV. product page: https://www.samsung.com/au/tvs/qled-tv/32-inch/

Each of these recommended TVs brings something special for senior viewers: whether it’s the gorgeous picture of the LG OLED, the no-glare brightness of the Samsung Neo QLED, the balanced simplicity of the Sony, the value and sound of the Hisense, or the compact convenience of the small Samsung. Importantly, all have built-in voice assistants and intuitive interfaces, which can significantly reduce the learning curve of using a smart TV. They also support features like closed captions, and have multiple HDMI ports for any extra gadgets you might use.

Final Tips for Using Your Smart TV

Getting a new TV is exciting, but it can also be a bit daunting to set up. Here are a few friendly tips to ensure a smooth experience:

• Initial Setup: Most TVs will walk you through an initial setup process with on-screen instructions. Take your time with this. You’ll typically connect to Wi-Fi, sign in to any streaming services you use, and tune the free-to-air channels. If you’re not comfortable doing this, consider asking a family member or the delivery crew to help. Some retailers in Australia offer installation – it might be worth the extra cost for peace of mind.
• Use the Accessibility Settings: Don’t hesitate to explore the TV’s settings menu for any accessibility options. Turn on what you need – for example, increase menu font size if the option exists, enable audio guidance if you have low vision, or set the TV to default to a simple home screen. These settings are there to make your life easier. You can also adjust picture modes (many TVs have a “Filmmaker Mode” or “Standard Mode” which often provide a comfortable brightness and colour balance that’s easy on the eyes, without overly vivid or harsh output).
• Voice Commands Practice: Give the voice features a try! It can feel strange at first to talk to your TV, but once you see how convenient it is (“Find Midsomer Murders” or “What’s the weather tomorrow?”), you might love it. It’s like having a helpful assistant. If the TV ever doesn’t understand you, try speaking a bit more slowly or use specific phrases (e.g. say “Open YouTube” rather than “Go to YouTube app”).
• Keep the Remote Simple: You might end up with multiple remotes (TV, maybe a Foxtel box, a DVD player, etc.). To avoid confusion, remember that for 90% of your usage, the TV’s own smart remote will do everything – it can often be programmed to control other devices too (via HDMI-CEC or universal remote features). Consider putting any rarely used remotes in a drawer so they don’t clutter the coffee table. If you ever lose the remote, many TVs have a control button on the back or bottom for basic functions as a backup.
• Stay Safe Online: Since your TV is internet-connected, treat it a bit like a computer for safety. Only install reputable apps (stick to the TV’s app store), and be wary of any pop-ups or strange links (though those are rare on TV platforms). Keep your TV’s software updated if it doesn’t do so automatically – updates often improve security and performance. And of course, be mindful of any accounts (like Netflix or Google) you log in with on the TV – use good passwords and sign out if you ever sell or give away the TV later.
• Enjoy and Explore: Finally, take advantage of the smart features gradually. You don’t have to use everything at once. Maybe this week you learn how to play something on ABC iview, next week you try YouTube to watch some gardening videos, and later on, you might try that new streaming service everyone’s talking about. There’s no rush – the content will be there whenever you’re ready. A smart TV is meant to enhance your leisure time, not complicate it. And remember, you cannot break the TV by exploring its menus, so feel free to poke around the settings and menus. If something doesn’t make sense, you can look up the manual or search online (just as you did to find this article!).

In Summary

A good smart TV for seniors is one that makes television fun and accessible without the hassle. The right TV will let you tune in to the nightly news, stream a classic movie, video-call your grandkids, or even ask it for tomorrow’s weather – all with ease. We’ve highlighted some top picks, but the best choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences like room size, budget, and which features matter most to you. Hopefully, this guide has demystified some of the tech jargon and given you confidence that today’s TVs can truly cater to all ages.

Whether you go with a feature-packed large screen or a compact smart set, you’re on your way to a more enjoyable viewing experience. Sit back, relax, and happy watching!

Sources: (References for the information and claims made above are listed below for transparency and further reading.)

1. National Seniors Australia – “Is your television too ‘smart’?” (17 Oct 2025)
2. PC Guide – “Best TV for seniors in 2025 – the top smart TVs for the elderly” (Charlie Noon, 10 Oct 2025)

In the Sunshine Coast and need halp setting up your new Smart TV? call 0435 415 873