Ask Engadget HD: What's the best outdoor HDTV?
by Darren Murph 
posted Oct 29th 2008 at 12:00PM
"We just put in a new deck and pool this summer, and now I'm looking for HDTV options for the outdoors. Ideally, I'd like a set that could withstand the rain and elements so I'm not stuck hauling it in and out each time we want to use it. Obviously, I'm trying to spend the least amount possible while still getting a good product, but I've had zero experience with those rugged, waterproof HDTVs. Anyone out there who could help?"
We know a few of you have splurged on a set to sit by the pool, so let's hear it! Are you happy with your Runco / Pantel / etc.? Had any problems with it standing up to the elements? Chime in below.
Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Pip @ Oct 29th 2008 3:55PM
I honestly couldn't name one outdoor HDTV off the top of my head but why is that guy wasting delicious punch?
Byrdman @ Oct 29th 2008 8:14PM
I concur, in an economy like this one should never waste punch in such a brash way just to show your neighbor, "hey look i'm an idiot that spent $6000 for a TV that I can waste punch with!"
Catdogburger @ Oct 29th 2008 6:19PM
Honestly a projector is the way to go. Get yourself a screen and you have the perfect HDTV for outside.
There is a whole site dedicated to it.
http://backyardtheater.com/
Installer Mike @ Oct 29th 2008 6:30PM
Projector? What am I supposed to do during the day? We have had fantastic results with the Pantel products. We've had no issues with the elements, I'm very confident that the folks at Pantel would take care of it if there were a problem!
I install these things for a living, my business is only as good as the products I install. The products I sell are only as good as the companies that make them. Pantel is that type of company!
Catdogburger @ Oct 29th 2008 7:02PM
It's called shade dude...you find a spot in the shade and it looks great. What I am saying is that instead of paying 3000$ (and that's only a 20 inch) for a mediocre TV, you could buy a 800$ projector with a 300$ screen and build yourself a a place with shade to watch TV. People say it looks bad in the summer, but it looks fantastic at night and if it's located in the shade it will be fine.
I have listed the prices of the TVs and I think that it's upsurd.
MSRP:
- PAN-650 (65-inch): $25,999
- PAN-520 (52-inch): $9,999
- PAN-420 (42-inch): $4,450
- PAN-320 (32-inch): $3,950
- PAN-200 (20-inch): $2,999
Trust me, I would rather spend 20,000$ on a place to put the projector (in shade) rather than 20,000$ on a TV that, while looks great in bright light, doesn't look as great in the darkness.
Also, the projector you can move very easily inside the house, it's small, portable and easy to install.