Picture this: You're hosting a backyard barbecue on a beautiful summer evening. The grill is sizzling, drinks are flowing, and everyone's having a great time. Suddenly, you realize the big game is about to start. Wouldn't it be amazing to watch it outside with your guests? This is where outdoor TV cabinets come into play, allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows and sports events in the great outdoors without worrying about the elements damaging your expensive television.

Key Features to Consider:

Weatherproofing & Sealing: This is crucial. Look for enclosures made from durable, waterproof materials like powder-coated aluminum, steel, UV-resistant ABS plastic, or specially treated woods (like Cedar). Ensure they have effective seals (gaskets) around doors and cable entry points to prevent water and dust ingress. Some may mention an IP (Ingress Protection) rating.

1. Material Durability: The cabinet must withstand sun (UV resistance), rain, temperature changes, and potential impacts. Metal and hard plastics generally offer high durability. Wood options exist but may require more maintenance over time.
   
2. Temperature Regulation & Ventilation: Electronics generate heat. Good enclosures need ventilation (often filtered vents) to prevent overheating in summer and potentially allow for airflow to reduce condensation. Some high-end models might include thermostatically controlled fans or even heaters for extreme cold, although simply protecting from freezing temperatures is often the main goal.
   
3. Security: Look for lockable doors or latches to deter theft and prevent accidental opening in high winds.
   
4. Mounting & Compatibility: Ensure the enclosure includes or is compatible with a VESA mount that fits your TV. Also, consider how the enclosure itself mounts to your wall, ceiling, or deck. Some enclosures come with articulating (full-motion) mounts included.
   
5. Size: Measure your TV carefully (width, height, and especially depth) and compare it to the interior dimensions of the enclosure, leaving some room for cables and airflow.
   
6. Cable Management: The cabinet should have sealed ports or pass-throughs for power and AV cables.
   
7. Front Panel/Window: Most hard enclosures have a protective front panel, often made of shatterproof polycarbonate or similar clear material. Some may offer anti-glare properties.

Top 5 Best Outdoor TV Cabinets

Acrtmatic

Pros:

• Affordable price compared to some high-end products

   

• Available in a variety of sizes (up to 100 inches)

   

• Shatterproof clear acrylic front bezel

   

• Weatherproof design with waterproof seal

   

• Lockable for added security

Cons:

• Basic design may not blend with all outdoor decors
  
• Some users report difficulty in installation

The TV Shield

Pros:

• Affordable compared to some high-end options
  
• Available in various sizes (up to 80 inches)
  
• Shatterproof polycarbonate front shield
  
• Weatherproof design with water-resistant seal
  
• Lockable for added security
  

Cons:

• Basic design may not blend with all outdoor decors
  
• Some users report difficulty in installation
  

The TV Shield is a popular choice among homeowners looking for a reliable and cost-effective solution. Its weatherproof design protects against rain, snow, dust, and insects. The shatterproof polycarbonate front shield offers clear viewing while protecting the screen from impact.
One of the standout features of The TV Shield is its versatility. It can accommodate a wide range of TV sizes, from small 19-inch models up to large 80-inch displays. This makes it an excellent option for various outdoor spaces, from intimate patio setups to large backyard entertainment areas.
The cabinet is made from high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE), known for its durability and resistance to UV rays. This material helps extend the life of your TV by protecting it from sun damage and color fading.
Installation is relatively straightforward, although some users have reported challenges. The TV Shield comes with a universal mounting solution, allowing you to use your existing TV mount or purchase a separate full-motion mount for added flexibility.
While The TV Shield may not win any design awards with its utilitarian look, it gets the job done efficiently and at a reasonable price point. If aesthetics are a primary concern, you might want to consider some of the more stylish options on our list.

Apollo Enclosures

Pros:

• Sleek, modern design
  
• Excellent build quality with powder-coated aluminum
  
• Anti-reflective safety glass for enhanced viewing
  
• Built-in thermostatically controlled airflow system
  
• Available in various sizes up to 75 inches
  

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to some competitors
  
• Limited color options
  
• Apollo Enclosures offers a more premium solution for those who want top-notch protection without compromising on aesthetics. These enclosures are built with a powder-coated aluminum chassis, providing excellent durability and weather resistance.
  

One of the standout features of Apollo Enclosures is their anti-reflective safety glass front panel. This not only protects your TV from the elements but also enhances the viewing experience by reducing glare – a common issue with outdoor TVs.
The built-in thermostatically controlled airflow system is another impressive feature. It automatically activates when the internal temperature reaches 95°F, ensuring your TV stays cool even on hot summer days. This system also helps prevent condensation, a common problem in humid environments.
Apollo Enclosures are available in sizes ranging from 43 inches to 75 inches, catering to a wide variety of outdoor setups. The sleek, modern design blends well with most outdoor decors, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize aesthetics.
While the price point is higher than some other options on this list, the quality and features justify the investment for many users. If you're looking for a premium solution that offers both excellent protection and visual appeal, Apollo Enclosures should be high on your list.

Storm Shell

Pros:

• Robust construction with powder-coated steel
  
• Affordable pricing for the quality offered
  
• Available in various sizes up to 65 inches
  
• Includes a full-motion articulating mount
  
• Simple installation process
  

Cons:

• Bulkier design compared to some competitors
  
• Limited advanced features like built-in cooling systems
  

Storm Shell offers a robust and affordable solution for outdoor TV protection. These enclosures are constructed from powder-coated steel, providing excellent durability and weather resistance at a competitive price point.
One of the standout features of Storm Shell enclosures is the inclusion of a full-motion articulating mount. This allows you to adjust the viewing angle of your TV easily, making it ideal for outdoor spaces where you might want to watch from different areas.
Storm Shell offers enclosures for TVs up to 65 inches, covering a wide range of popular TV sizes. The installation process is straightforward, with many users reporting they were able to set it up without professional help.
While Storm Shell enclosures don't offer some of the advanced features found in premium models (like built-in cooling systems), they provide solid protection against the elements at a more accessible price point. The design is somewhat bulkier than some sleeker options, but for many users, the trade-off in aesthetics is worth the robust protection and affordability.
If you're looking for a no-frills solution that gets the job done without breaking the bank, Storm Shell is definitely worth considering.

Outdoor TV Cover

Pros:

• Very affordable option
  
• Easy to install and remove
  
• Lightweight and portable
  
• Available in various sizes
  
• Some models offer limited viewing capability
  

Cons:

• Less protection compared to hard-shell enclosures
  
• May not be suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions
  
• Limited theft protection
  

While not a cabinet in the traditional sense, outdoor TV covers offer a budget-friendly alternative for those who need basic protection for their outdoor TV. These covers are typically made from water-resistant materials like polyester or vinyl and slip over your TV when it's not in use.
The main advantages of TV covers are their affordability and ease of use. They're simple to put on and take off, making them a good choice for areas with mild climates where you might only need occasional protection.
Some higher-end covers feature clear front panels that allow you to watch TV with the cover on, offering limited protection even during use. However, these clear panels can sometimes affect picture quality and are generally not as durable as hard-shell enclosures.
It's important to note that while TV covers offer good protection against light rain and dust, they may not be sufficient in areas with extreme weather conditions. They also provide limited protection against theft compared to lockable cabinets.
If you're on a tight budget or only need occasional protection in a mild climate, an outdoor TV cover could be a suitable option. However, for more comprehensive and long-term protection, you might want to consider one of the hard-shell enclosures mentioned earlier.

FAQ

1. Is the outdoor TV enclosure waterproof? Can it withstand rain and snow?
Yes, high-quality outdoor TV enclosures are rated IP55 or higher, making them resistant to rain, moisture, and snow. They are designed for year-round, all-weather outdoor use.

2. Can I use a regular indoor TV with an outdoor enclosure?
Absolutely. Outdoor TV enclosures are specifically designed to protect standard indoor TVs, allowing you to enjoy outdoor entertainment without investing in an expensive outdoor-specific TV.

3. Will the enclosure block the remote control signal?
No. Most enclosures feature an IR-transparent front panel, which allows remote control signals to pass through easily, so you can control your TV without any issues.

4. Will my TV overheat inside the enclosure during hot summer weather?
Not at all. Professional-grade enclosures often include ventilation systems or temperature-controlled fans that help dissipate heat and keep your TV running smoothly, even in hot conditions.

5. Is it difficult to install an outdoor TV enclosure?
Installation is straightforward. Most models support wall-mounting or stand-mounting and come with all necessary hardware and installation instructions. You can install it yourself or opt for professional installation.