The expert's advice

The most reliable TVs: what really breaks down

'Which brand breaks down the least?' is one of the questions we're asked most often. The honest answer: the range and how you use it matter more than the logo. Here's what really breaks on a TV, and how to give yourself the best chance.

By Clément, TV specialist at Nimestore · 2 min read · Published 26 October 2026
In brief
  • Most failures come from thepower supply, the backlight and the main board
  • The entry-level ranges are more fragile, across all brands
  • Heat and power surges shorten a TV's life
  • In Belgium, the legal guarantee is 2 years

What breaks down

Fault no. 1

The backlight

On LED TVs, these are strips of tiny diodes behind the screen. When one fails, the picture goes dark or disappears while the sound carries on. It's the most common fault on entry-level models.

Fault no. 2

The power supply

The TV won't switch on, or the standby light flashes. Often linked to a power surge, a storm, or a TV crammed into a cabinet without ventilation.

Fault no. 3

The main board

Apps that crash, endless restarts, HDMI ports that stop responding. Sometimes fixed by an update, sometimes by a repair.

The brand matters less than the range

All the major brands make reliable TVs and more fragile ones. The biggest gap is between ranges: a high-end model has better heat dissipation, more robust components and better software support. TVs OLED don't have a backlight, so no fault no. 1, but they need a few precautions against burn-in.

Making your TV last

  • leave 10 cm of air around and above the TV, especially in a cabinet;
  • plug it into a surge-protected power strip ;
  • unplug it during severe storms ;
  • install the updates for the system;
  • avoid permanent maximum brightness in everyday use.
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The shop's advice

Keep the receipt and the box for the first few months. If there's a problem, we handle the claim with the brand: that's the advantage of buying close to home.

Sturdy TVs, chosen by the shop

Frequently asked questions

Are Chinese TVs less reliable?

No. Almost all TVs are assembled in Asia, whatever the brand. Reliability depends mainly on the range and the components.

How long does a TV last?

On average seven to ten years in normal use. Many last longer when they are well ventilated and protected from power surges.

Is an extended warranty worth it?

For a large high-end screen, it can offer peace of mind. Read carefully what it covers beyond the 2 legal years: accidental damage, home visit, loan of a screen.

Need advice?

Come and compare the screens in person

At our Temploux shop, we switch on TVs side by side with your content. Or ask our expert salesperson online, right now.

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