Smart TVs are standard televisions with internet connectivity and enhanced software, perfect for streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Video or playing games online. They can also connect to various devices to extend their functionality.
You might be wondering if your smart TV has built-in Bluetooth so you can pair it with wireless speakers, headphones, and other devices. The answer depends on your TV's brand and model. In this article, we'll explain which smart TVs have Bluetooth and what alternatives exist if yours doesn't.
What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a wireless technology that enables data exchange between two devices within a short range. It's used for wireless headsets, headphones, speakers, and data transfer between wearable devices and smartphones. Most modern smart TVs feature Bluetooth connectivity.
Do All Smart TVs Have Bluetooth?
Not all smart TVs come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. While it's a common feature among modern TVs, some models lack this functionality. There's no standardization for Bluetooth in smart TVs, so manufacturers use various Bluetooth versions with different features. Some manufacturers may disable Bluetooth to save energy and reduce maintenance costs.
Bluetooth vs Smart TV Features
Bluetooth is a wireless technology designed to connect two devices within a short range. For a TV to be considered "smart," it needs internet connectivity and enhanced software. This means your TV will have an app menu and connect to the internet to stream content like TV shows, movies, and music. You can pair your TV with speakers, headphones, and game controllers.
Which Smart TVs Have Built-in Bluetooth?
Not all smart TVs come with built-in Bluetooth. Here are the major brands and their Bluetooth support:
- Samsung - Most modern Samsung Smart TVs have built-in Bluetooth. If your TV comes with a Smart Remote, it supports Bluetooth. You can also check by navigating to "Settings," selecting "Sound," then "Sound Output." If "Bluetooth speaker list" appears, your TV supports Bluetooth.
- Sony - Sony offers a wide range of models with built-in Bluetooth across their Bravia lineup.
- LG - Almost all modern LG models have built-in Bluetooth, including QNED MiniLED, OLED, NanoCell, and 4K Ultra series.
- Vizio - VIZIO televisions typically support Bluetooth LE (Low Energy), mainly for pairing the VIZIO SmartCast Mobile app to use smartphones and tablets as remotes.
- Panasonic - Most modern Panasonic models include built-in Bluetooth functionality.
- Toshiba - The most recent Toshiba Smart TV models feature built-in Bluetooth.
- Hisense - Most modern Hisense models come with built-in Bluetooth, including A91, A6G, A61, A6, A65, A60, A71, H55, H65, H8G, H8, H9, H8G1, U6, L5, U8, U7, U8g and U9 series.
Alternatives to Built-in Bluetooth
If your smart TV doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, you can still enjoy wireless convenience. Simply purchase a Bluetooth dongle and plug it into your TV's USB port. This lets you pair your TV with wireless headphones, speakers, and other devices.
Other alternatives include:
- Amazon Fire TV, which comes with built-in Bluetooth for connecting various Bluetooth devices
- Smart hubs or Bluetooth 5.0 transmitters that plug into your TV's HDMI port and provide Bluetooth functionality
Smart TVs provide excellent entertainment with various smart features. Bluetooth enables wireless data exchange between devices within a short range, letting you connect your TV to multiple devices for seamless functionality. To determine if your smart TV has built-in Bluetooth, check its specifications and see which devices you can connect using Bluetooth.
