Big daddy TV and home video gifts for Father's Day
You could just get dad a new drill or weed whacker, but in the end that stuff just means more work. Here are a few suggestions for his home entertainment leisure time.
Vizio P series 2016 ($1,000 and up)
If what Dad wants is the best new big TV for the money, the P series is a strong contender. Starting at $999 for the 50-inch size, it hits all the picture-quality high notes and offers a new take on Smart TV. Instead of built-in apps, it comes with a free Android tablet that acts as a remote control.
LG 55EG9100 ($2,000)
If Dad is the kind of tech enthusiast who knows from OLED, he also knows that its picture quality beats that of any old LED LCD. This 55-inch LG might cost a mint, but it's still the most affordable OLED TV available.
TCL Roku TV ($250 and up)
It has the best Smart TV system available and good-enough picture quality, for a price that pretty much can't be beat. If Dad likes his Roku, he'll love the TV version. Shown here is the new 4K Roku TV, but last year's non-4K versions are still available and extremely affordable.
Roku Streaming Stick ($50)
Speaking of Roku and affordable, maybe your Father's Day budget is a bit smaller. Never fear -- the $50 stick is a great option, especially for a dad who wants to watch Netflix and other streaming apps on his hotel room TV.
Roku 4 ($130)
Maybe Dad already has a 4K TV. If so, the Roku 4 is the ultimate streaming accessory, with its wide range of 4K service support and ease in finding cool 4K videos to demo.
Samsung UBD-K8500 ($400)
OK, maybe this is the ultimate 4K TV accessory. What it lacks in Roku's breadth of streaming services, it makes up for in actual, physical 4K Blu-ray discs, which deliver the highest-quality video available. And it's the only device right now that can play them.
Apple TV ($69)
Discs are so yesterday, though. If your Father's Day giftee is more of an Apple guy with a lot of stuff on iTunes, this is the ultimate TV accessory. No, it's not 4K, but the kids will love its massive selection of casual games.
Nvidia Shield ($200)
Is Dad a full-on server-owning geek? Or maybe he's a lifelong gamer, filled with nostalgia for the titles of yesteryear, and is itching for an excuse to play them. The Shield sounds like the perfect gift for him.