What are the best 12 volt TVs for your RV? On this list, you just might find the best TV for your campervan…
Even though Jennifer and I do not watch much TV, I still have one in our RV. Actually, there are two. It just came that way.
It's always nice to watch our favorite TV shows on rainy days. That is why I think it is important to know what to look for if you are in the market for a new one!
I highlight my top five picks on the market based on reviews and what we hear from other campers. Then, below, I list key features to look for in the best 12V TV for a campervan or other RV!
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1. Supersonic 1080p 22-inch LED HDTV for RV
I think the best TV for campervan is the Supersonic 22-inch LED 1080p HDTV. It offers the most bang for your buck! It comes complete with the most features and has the most versatility of the TVs on my list.
Not only does this RV TV include USB and HDMI compatibility, but it also offers RF, PC Audio, CVBS, VGA, and Audio Left and Right inputs.
With all of those features, you can use digital streaming services and plug-in gaming consoles. You can even plug in external speakers for improved sound quality and a surround sound experience!
The 1080p resolution is top-notch picture quality!
This TV is compatible with wall mounts or can be used with the included legs.
Finally, you do not have to worry about the power requirements in your RV. It is compatible with both AC and DC outlets, so you do not need to worry about your individual power source. However, you may need to purchase a 12-volt power cord.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
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Supersonic SC-2211 22-Inch 1080p LED Widescreen HDTV with HDMI Input (AC/DC Compatible) | Add to Cart |
2. ASA Jensen JTV 1917DVD DC Built-In DVD Player
This Jensen TV is my top lightweight pick for best TV for campervan. It weighs a mere 7 pounds! This is a great TV for anyone concerned about the weight or limited wall space.
It has a built-in DVD player, 16:9 LCD screen that is HDTV ready (1080p, 720p, 480p). This Jensen RV TV comes with HDMI, USB, VGA, RF, as well as video and stereo inputs.
The main complaint about this TV is its low volume. Its speakers just don't cut it for many people. So, if you opt for this RV TV, we recommend also purchasing wireless headsets you can connect to it.
This is a 12V DC product, so you'd need a power inverter to connect to 120V AC.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
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Jensen 12V DC TV with Built-in DVD Player |
$249.02 |
Add to Cart |
3. Supersonic 19-inch 12-volt LED TV with Built-In DVD
Are you searching for the best 12-volt TV/DVD combo? If so, look no further!
This TV offers simplicity and a storage space solution in one! This two-for-one solution has a TV with a built-in DVD player that is compatible with a wide variety of different formats. You can use it with DVD, DVD +/- R, DVD +/- RW, CD, CDR, CDRW, VCD, and SVCD.
In addition to the built-in DVD players, the TV comes complete with HDMI, USB, and AC ports. That way you can use it with a variety of streaming accessories, gaming consoles, or other accessories.
This TV also comes complete with adaptors for both AC and DC power supply.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
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Supersonic SC-1912 19-Inch LED HDTV with 1080p Picture Quality, Built-in DVD Player, HDMI, USB, PC... |
$153.92 |
Add to Cart |
4. Free Signal 32-Inch 12-volt Flat LED HDTV for RV
If a large flat-screen TV is on your mind, this may be the best TV for a campervan that you can find! This 32-inch TV is shock and vibration-resistant and comes with some great features!
This TV can be wall or table-mounted and comes complete with three HDMI inputs to connect to multiple accessories.
It has a wide view angle, which works well when watching sports.
One drawback is that it is only DC outlet compatible. You can, however, purchase the separate CHD 1260 Power Brick Adapter to make it AC-friendly.
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FREE SIGNAL TV Transit 12 Volt Flat Screen TV for RV, 32 inch TV with LED Screen, AC/DC Powered with... |
$399.00 |
Add to Cart |
5. Free Signal TV Transit 40″ 12v 1080p LED
If bigger means better to you, then this 40″ TV is the way to go. Also made by Transit, this TV is built for RV and mobile use.
Despite its large screen size, the TV's groundbreaking engineering results in a lightweight design. It can be wall-mounted or placed on a tabletop with the included stand.
As a Transit TV, it is shock and vibration-resistant and comes with a 1-year free replacement program.
Now, you may want to read How to Install a Flat Screen TV in an RV.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
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FREE SIGNAL TV Transit 12 Volt Flat Screen TV for RV, 22 inch TV with LED Screen, AC/DC Powered with... |
$289.00 |
Add to Cart |
What to Look For in a 12V TV for an RV? (6 Things)
You know that you need a TV for your campervan or RV, but what do you look for? I have outlined several important factors you will want to pay attention to when comparing various TV models.
1. Screen Size
Most 12-volt TVs are going to have a screen size between 19 and 24 inches. Larger models are available, but you will want to be sure that you have the mounting space available to accommodate the size.
2. Input Options
Take stock in what TV accessories you want to use with your new RV TV. You will want to choose a TV that is compatible with those accessories.
For example, do you use a DVD player that requires an HDMI input? If so, you will want to be sure that the TV has HDMI ports.
When looking for the best TV for campervan or RV, most will include:
- USB port
- RF
- PC
- VGA
- Audio
- CVBS
- Audio Left and Right (to connect to an external speaker system)
3. Power Requirements
There are two common power requirements when it comes to TVs. The first is AC, which stands for “alternating current.” The other is DC and stands for “direct current.”
The standard used for RV TVs is typically 12-volt DC outlets. If that is the case for your RV, you want to be careful to choose a DC-compatible TV. If your RV has an AC outlet, choose an AC TV.
4. Mounting
It is no secret that RVs come with limited space. That is why you will want to purchase a TV with versatile mounting options.
Most RV TVs can be used with universal wall mounts. But some may require additional hardware or tools to install it properly.
Some RV TVs come complete with their own individual TV stand. Those can be used temporarily, but it is not recommended for permanent use. If you do not mount the TV you will have to secure it each time you move.
Part-time RVers might find that storing their TV when traveling is not cumbersome. However, full-time RVers should opt to hang the TV to avoid damaging it over time.
5. Media Compatibility
Do you Amazon Prime or Dish Network to watch programs? Or perhaps you use a Roku stick or Amazon Firestick? Some people choose to ditch those and stick only with DVDs when they travel.
No matter what you watch and how you watch it, pay attention to your TV’s media compatibility. You want to be sure that your cable dish or other devices can plug into your new TV.
If you prefer watching over-the-air TV channels or satellite TV, you want to ensure that your new TV can receive those. Otherwise, you may only be able to receive digital streaming services.
Having multiple options for different media sources allows you to utilize new multimedia down the road. Maybe you do not watch Netflix now, but you may in the future. It would be nice for your new TV to be compatible with anything new that you want to add.
These days, a smart TV isn't that much more expensive than a regular TV. So, if you have off grid internet, then you may want to opt for smart over standard TVs.
6. Price
When it comes to price, there is some good news! Most 12-volt TVs do not come with a huge price tag. That means you can find one that works for you and your rig for about $100 to $250.
Just writing about TV makes me want to put on my sweats and a comfy hoodie! Be sure to check out our RV Lifestyle clothing. Now on with the show.
What Are Your Favorite Shows to Watch on Your 12-volt TV?
Jennifer and I are always looking for show recommendations. Share your all-time favorites and let us know if you're happy with the type of TV you have in your rig. Comment below!
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Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
December 17, 2023at3:08 pm, Dave Meekhof said:
I love your reviews, Mike!
I rent out 14 RVs, and now-a-days everyone wants a SMART TV. Renters are no longer interested in DVDs or Over-the-air RF TV. Most folks just turn on the wifi hotspot on their phones and setup a Wifi network and connect the Smart TV to that. I wish you had included a 12vDC SMART TV in your list, but I guess there’s always the option of buying a separate Roku or Amazon Fire stick to plug into a “dumb” TV’s HDMI input.
I used to be able to buy 12vDC TVs at Best Buy, but none of the TVs come with a 12v wall-wort anymore.
December 19, 2023at10:26 am, Team RV Lifestyle said:
Thanks for the feedback, Dave- it is appreciated! Team RV Lifestyle
December 12, 2022at6:56 pm, Godfrey Haugh said:
Why are we talking about 110v. Are all the new RV’s on the 110v system? Or the NZ standard 230v
May 23, 2022at3:54 pm, Harold Ross said:
The review can provide a comparison of 12V, but the real choice is why not install or just use if you already have one an inverter. An inverter takes 12VDC (battery input) and changes it to 120 V-AC. Now you don'[t need to buy a specialty TV, cheaper and more choices and you can also use your microwave without the generator or shore power. Many other 110 AC appliances as long as the capacity of the inverter is not exceeded. The efficiency is very high and certainly doesn’t justify a specialty TV in my opinion
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May 23, 2022at9:01 am, Tim C said:
I agree with JP Swan, there is an ad that pops up on mobile devices that blocks a large portion of the screen. It is very annoying.
October 16, 2021at9:20 am, Samantha Nichols said:
Thanks so much for sharing! It is helpful for me and I love it. Worth article!
October 07, 2021at7:58 am, Samantha Nichols said:
Installed SuperSonic tv in my RV. I cut off the “cigarette lighter” 12-volt adapter after determining the + and – wires and hard-wired it into the electrical system. Incredibly light. Sitting 8 to 10 feet away, there is no quality issue with the image. If you want a great system at a great price for your RV or boat, this will work.
June 15, 2021at11:59 am, JP Swan said:
What level of AMPS do these 12dc tvs draw? Also here to enter the comme ts, on a mobile device the video advertisments get in the way and canot be moved shrunk etc… Fyi
June 14, 2021at12:04 pm, Mike Gildea said:
I found a 19″ 120 AC Volt TV with built in DVD at a appliance store. I hate inverters, so i cut off the inline converter and wired up a cig lighter plug. Now it runs off battery with no inverter. Draws 1.5 Amps with both tv and dvd operating. Brand name isnt important. Just find one with a wall wort (converter) and remove it. This was a dirt cheap alternative to 12volt pricey RV TV.
June 13, 2021at11:06 am, Robin said:
How do I look up past information? Awning cleaner, travel packing list ect.