Which Is Best: Hospitality TVs or Consumer TVs?

DISCOVER 5 REASONS WHY CONSUMER TELEVISIONS AREN’T IDEAL FOR COMMERCIAL SETTINGS

When the consumer electronic world is awash with deep discounts, many hotel managers and owners question whether it is worth buying commercial television panels when they could take advantage of sales on less expensive consumer models. On the surface, it seems that there is a significant difference in price between televisions sold to the consumer and commercial markets, particularly for the entry-level models that most hotels offer their guests.

However, cost does not always equal value, especially when it comes to electronics. Here are five reasons why hospitality TVs are the best choice for every hotel’s budget.

1) Hospitality TVs Come with Longer Warranties

Most television sets sold in the consumer market come with a 90-day to 1-year warranty. Additionally, the warranty is contingent upon personal use – in many cases it might be voided if used for commercial purposes. In contrast, televisions marketed specifically to the hospitality industry usually come with warranties lasting 2 to 5 years. The guaranteed coverage also typically includes hands-on support. 

2. Hospitality Television Panels Have Longer Duty Cycles

Each product is customized to its particular target audience’s usage patterns. Consumer TVs are designed to perform for the average amount of time a user might watch at home, so usually around four to eight hours per day. Hospitality TVs on the other hand are built to run 15 to 16 hours daily. Additionally, some models designed for lobbies or waiting rooms can be used continuously throughout the day and night. 

3. Commercial TV Sets Are More Guest-Friendly

While televisions designed for consumers might come with countless ways to customize settings via external and remote controls, commercial panels make it easier for a hotel to set and lock different configurations that best meet its hospitality needs. This enables the creation of a curated guest experience, simplifying and streamlining usage to make it easier for each guest to quickly access what they need. Meanwhile, hotel managers and owners can rest easy in the knowledge that guests cannot alter settings or access off-limit content.

4. Hospitality TVs Can Prevent Piracy and Offer Guest-Focused Content

Standard models of television sets designed for the hospitality market come with a suite of additional features that are not often seen in consumer sets. For example, many cable providers like HBO now require digital encryption in hotel television systems to protect their intellectual property and prevent content piracy. One such encryption technology called Pro:Idiom™ is integrated into many hotel TV sets. Additionally, most commercial TV panels allow hotels to create their own custom content for start-up channels to display helpful information about amenities and the surrounding neighborhoods. 

5. Hotels Can Buy Commercial TVs at Volume for a Discount

Consumer TVs are priced to sell per unit, with the idea that the typical buyer won’t be purchasing more than one television at a time. So, while a hotel owner or manager might be able to snag a great deal on one TV, that discount fades when multiple units are purchased against the option of buying in bulk. Hospitality television packages offer volume pricing to deliver the most competitive cost per unit.