Guide · 10 October 2026
Can you use a normal TV for digital signage?
Short answer: yes. Plug one of our small players into the TV's HDMI port and it runs on Knightsoft CMS. Whether it's the right choice depends on where the screen is and how long it's on.
By Shaun Davies, Director, Knightsoft Media
When a normal TV is fine
- It's on for a few hours a day, not all day.
- It's away from windows and bright lights.
- It's landscape, on a wall, out of reach.
- You want to try signage before buying commercial screens.
When a commercial screen is worth it
- Long hours. Commercial screens are built to run all day, every day. Domestic TVs usually aren't.
- Bright rooms and windows. Commercial screens are brighter, and high-brightness models stay readable in a sunny shop window.
- Portrait. Many domestic TVs aren't designed to be hung on their side.
- Warranty. Many domestic TV warranties don't cover business use. Check yours.
- Public spaces. Commercial screens can usually lock their buttons and remote, so nobody changes the input.
What we'd suggest
If you've already got TVs, start with those and a player each. If a screen struggles (too dim, too hot, or on all day), we'll swap it for a commercial one when it's due. Either way, your content and CMS stay the same.
Book a free demo, or call us on 07942 363995 and tell us what you've got.
See how easy it is
Book a free demo. We'll show you Knightsoft CMS live, by video call or in person, and answer your questions.