Rooting Smart TVs?

[Amarok]

As I am in the market for a new TV and dumb ones seem to be extinct, it's time to do some learnin'.

I only use a TV as a big screen for playing my own media. No cable, satellite, etc, so my exposure to data harvesting is almost minimal but I'm a stubborn bastard. I loathe having any of MY devices spying on ME in any way and I do my best to stop it.

Preliminary research shows me that on some models the OS can be rooted, allowing the owner to take back control of their device,and even install third party apps. I'm going to do some reading and see what I can figure out but I figured I'd check and see if any of you have looked into this area.

 

[BH]

Top 7 Best Non Smart TVs of 2025: Ideal for Privacy Seekers

Explore the best non smart TVs of 2023: Top picks for privacy and simplicity, offering superb picture quality without smart complexities.

www.smarthomeperfected.com

 

[BH]

Here are some solid options if your friend wants a TV with no smart/os built-in features — great for privacy and simplicity. True non-smart TVs are rarer today, but there are still several around, especially smaller screens and commercial/hospitality panels (which don’t run smart OS/ads).


Larger Screens & Higher Quality (No Smart OS)

• Samsung 43” Non‑Smart Hospitality TV – A 43″ 4K UHD non-smart panel often sold as a commercial/hospitality display. Great for privacy if you want a larger screen without apps built in.
• LG 32” Non‑Smart TV – A true non-smart LED TV by LG. Good mid-size choice if you want modern panel quality without internet.

Small & Simple Everyday TVs

• Westinghouse 24” Non‑Smart TV – Top-rated small TV with 720p HD resolution, HDMI/USB ports — easy to use with antennas or HDMI devices (e.g., DVD players).
• Westinghouse 32” HD TV – A larger 32″ version for living rooms/bedrooms with basic HDMI connectivity and no smart OS.
• Supersonic 19” LED TV – Compact, budget LED TV perfect for small rooms or as a secondary set.
• LG 24” HD LED HDTV – Another compact, basic HDTV option — often very affordable if buying used/refurbished.

Extras & Specialty Options

• Westinghouse 24” HD DVD Combo TV – A non-smart TV with a built-in DVD player — neat choice for movie nights without extra devices.
• Magnavox 22” LED TV – Small HD TV with multiple AV inputs — good as a kitchen/bedroom set.

Notes & Tips

• Why they’re rare: Most modern TVs are smart by default with built-in OS and apps — privacy-focused buyers often must choose commercial signage panels or older models.
• Alternative approach: If larger screens are needed and non-smart options aren’t available locally, you can buy any TV with HDMI inputs and never connect it to Wi-Fi. Using an external streaming/ set-top box (like a simple Apple TV / Roku / Chromecast plugged in only when needed) keeps the TV free of tracking.