Top 12V TVs for RVs, Vans, Boats, and Campers (2025 Update)

The Best 12V TV For RVs, Campers, Boats

Finding a 12V TV for your RV, camper, or boat can be challenging since they’re less common than standard models. These TVs run on DC power, making them ideal for off-grid use with house batteries. Unlike 120V TVs, they don’t require an inverter or generator, which is perfect for dry camping.

We use a portable power station to run the TV in our RV, among other things. But you can also run a 12V TV off of the house battery in your camper.

In this article, we’ll cover six excellent 12V TVs in different sizes and answer common questions to help you find the best option for your setup.

1. SYLVOX 12V TV DVD Combo

My Thoughts

The SYLVOX 12V TV DVD Combo is particularly well-suited for small RVs or camper bedrooms where space and power efficiency are priorities. Its smart TV capabilities allow for seamless streaming, and the multiple input options provide flexibility for connecting various devices.

However, you should consider the unit’s thickness because of the built-in DVD player, especially if planning to wall-mount the TV in a confined space.

2. Jensen 12V TV HD Ready

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My Thoughts

If you’re looking for a sturdy and compact TV, this is a great option, especially if you’re tight on space.

I really like that it’s made specifically for RVs and boats. It feels like Jensen really thought about the needs of people traveling or living on the road.

It’s small enough to fit just about anywhere, but still has enough features to keep you entertained.

The built-in tuner is handy for getting free local channels, which is a nice bonus when you’re parked somewhere for the night.

While I do wish it had full HD resolution or a built-in DVD player, I think it’s a great pick for those who want something simple and reliable that won’t drain your power supply.

3. Free Signal TV Transit Platinum 12V

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If you’re looking for a TV that combines great picture quality with smart features, this is a great option.

I really like that you can choose from three sizes to fit your RV or boat perfectly, whether you’re looking for a compact TV or something a little larger.

The built-in DVD player is a great feature for watching movies when you’re off-grid, and the pre-installed streaming apps are perfect for when you have Wi-Fi access. It does, however, not support Blu-ray.

The sound quality could use a bit more depth, but you can always connect external speakers or a soundbar via Bluetooth.

While it’s on the pricier side, I think the combination of durability, picture quality, and features justifies the investment.

4. RecPro 12 Volt HD TV

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If you’re looking for a large-screen TV with smart capabilities for your RV, the RecPro 12 Volt HD Smart TV is a solid option.

I appreciate its 40-inch display, which provides an immersive viewing experience, making movie nights or catching up on your favorite shows more enjoyable.

The smart TV functionality allows you to access streaming services directly, provided you have an internet connection, adding convenience to your travels.

While the absence of a built-in DVD player might be a drawback for some, the multiple input options enable you to connect external devices easily.

Keep in mind the larger size requires adequate space for installation, so ensure your RV can accommodate its dimensions. Overall, this TV offers a great combination of features tailored for the mobile lifestyle.

5. CONTINU.US 12V RV TV

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If you’re looking for a smart TV that works perfectly with your RV’s 12V system, the CONTINU.US 32-inch Smart TV is a strong contender.

I like how easy it is to set up and use, with Android TV offering a familiar and seamless streaming experience. Built-in Chromecast makes it convenient to cast content from your phone, and its lightweight design means it’s easy to mount or move around.

While it doesn’t have a built-in DVD player and the 720p resolution might not wow some viewers, the features and portability make it a practical and enjoyable choice for RV owners.

6. Jensen Widescreen 40 LED DC TV

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If you’re looking for a large-screen TV for your RV, the Jensen Widescreen 40″ LED DC TV is a solid choice.

I appreciate its robust design, which is clearly made to handle the bumps and vibrations of life on the road. The picture quality is impressive, with full HD resolution providing sharp and clear images.

While it doesn’t have built-in smart features or a DVD player, the multiple input options allow you to connect external devices easily.

Overall, it’s a dependable choice for those prioritizing durability and quality in their mobile entertainment setup.

What To Consider When Buying A 12V TV For An RV

12 volt vs. 120 volt

If you always camp with full hookups or at least electricity, there’s no reason for you to go shopping for a 12-volt TV.

On the other hand, if you never camp with full hookups, there’s no reason to have a 120-volt TV unless you plan on running the generator or using a solar power station every time you want to watch TV.

Of course, other options let you use the outlets while dry-camping. Solar panels, inverters, Goal Zero (click to see review), and products like it, are popular ways to go.

Screen Size

The first thing you should consider when looking at a 12 volt TV is the size of it.

By that, I mean the screen size, the area of the TV that displays the picture.

Do you have enough space to fit a 40-inch TV in your RV?

Maybe a 19-inch TV is all you can fit in your bedroom. Check the measurements and go measure spaces in your RV, so you know it’ll fit.

Resolution

If you’ve been following along with this list of 12-volt TVs, you probably noticed me grumbling a bit about the lack of 1080p resolution on some models.

Resolution refers to how many pixels the TV uses to create an image. Fewer pixels mean a lower resolution, and that translates to a less sharp picture.

If you’re kicking back on a couch 10 feet away, you likely won’t notice much difference between 720p and 1080p. But if you’re tucked into bed just five feet away, the difference can be more obvious.

Does this really matter? Probably not for most people. If you’re mainly watching free over-the-air channels that aren’t even in HD, the resolution might not be a deal-breaker. Still, it’s worth thinking about, especially depending on the kind of content you’ll be watching and how far away you’ll be when the TV is mounted.

Built-In DVD Player

I don’t usually recommend 12-volt TVs with built-in DVD players, and I explain why in more detail in the FAQ section below.

That said, if a TV-DVD combo is what you’re after, keep in mind that not all the models in this review include one.

Weight

The weight difference between the TVs I reviewed isn’t massive, but it’s there. If weight is a concern for you, take a second to check the specs to see how heavy the TV is.

If you’re planning to mount it on the wall, as long as your wall mount is attached to a stud, it should handle the TV just fine without any trouble.

Inputs/Outputs

The inputs and outputs on a TV are where you’ll connect your external devices like media players, laptops, and gaming consoles.

Do you need three HDMI ports? Or will one do the job since you’re only connecting a cable box? It’s good to think about how many devices you’ll actually use.

If you’re planning to add a soundbar, double-check the outputs on both the TV and soundbar to make sure they’re compatible.

HDMI is the go-to connection for most TVs and external devices these days, so it’s a good idea to prioritize TVs with at least one HDMI port.

Power Usage

The larger the TV or the higher the resolution, the more power it will consume. Brightness settings can also impact power draw.

Check how many amps your RV battery has and calculate how much power a specific TV will use over a few hours of viewing. The power consumption is often listed in the TV’s specifications or can be confirmed by contacting the manufacturer. I’ve also included the maximum wattage for each TV in the quick facts section of this article.

Brightness

If you’re planning to watch TV in your RV during the day, brightness is something to consider. Sunlight can make the screen look dim and harder to see.

If you mostly watch TV at night, you can focus on other features instead. For outdoor setups or daytime viewing, a brighter screen is essential since it’s harder to block sunlight from hitting the display.

Speakers

The built-in speakers on most TVs aren’t great, and this is especially true for 12-volt TVs made for RVs. They’re fine for casual viewing, but don’t expect high-quality audio.

One of the best upgrades you can make is adding a Bluetooth speaker. A solid option is something like the Bose Soundlink Mini (click to view on Amazon). I’ve used one of these, and the sound quality is fantastic for its size.

That said, most 12-volt TVs don’t come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. Instead, they often rely on 3.5mm audio outputs or RCA connections for external speakers. If Bluetooth is a priority, you can use a small Bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the TV’s 3.5mm or RCA output. This will allow you to connect Bluetooth speakers or headphones wirelessly.

If you’re looking for other outdoor or camping-friendly Bluetooth speakers, check out this article (click to view) for more recommendations.

Best 12V DVD Player For RVs, Cars, & Boats

Like I mentioned earlier in the “What to Consider” section, getting a 12-volt TV with a built-in DVD player isn’t always the best choice.

The DVD player often fails before the TV, leaving you with a bulkier unit and no working player. Chances are, you’ll end up needing an external 12-volt DVD player, anyway.

Thankfully, portable DVD players are available, and I’ve come across one that should do the job.

Ceihoit Mini DVD Player

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The Ceihoit Mini DVD Player is an excellent small and portable option if you’re planning to bring DVDs along on your camping trips.

While it’s powered via micro USB and not strictly a 12-volt device, you can easily convert it with a 12V USB plug (click to view on Amazon). Just make sure to use a 2-amp power source. It’s also compatible with small power banks or the same charger you use for other electronics.

See Also: Best Portable Power Bank/Supply For Travel And Camping

This DVD player connects to your TV with an HDMI cable and works seamlessly with all the 12-volt TVs mentioned in this review. It also has an AV output for connecting to older TVs.

Its compact size makes it ideal for RVs. The unit is only 7.3 inches wide, 6 inches long, and 1.7 inches thick, weighing just over a pound.

Additional features include HD video output, CD playback capability, and support for USB flash drives to play digital media. It’s designed with anti-shock technology to handle travel and road vibrations.

What’s included:

• Remote control
• AV cable
• HDMI cable
• USB power cable

If you’re looking for a reliable DVD player to complete your RV entertainment setup, this is a fantastic choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About 12 Volt TVs

Are 12 volt TVs built differently than a 120 volt?

Yes, most 12-volt TVs are designed specifically for travelers who need to power them with a battery. They are often built with reinforced chassis to handle vibrations and movement when the RV is on the road. This makes them more durable than typical 120-volt TVs, which are designed for stationary use in homes.

How do I hard-wire a 12 volt TV to my RV battery?

If there’s no 12-volt outlet where you want to mount the TV, you can install one yourself using a cigarette lighter outlet. Here are your options:

1. Run it directly to the battery: Connect the outlet to your RV battery. Use an inline fuse on the positive wire to protect the circuit.
2. Connect it to the fuse box: Wire the outlet to your RV’s fuse box for a cleaner and centralized setup.
3. Splice into an existing 12-volt light: If the wiring is thick enough to handle the amps required for the TV, you can connect the outlet to the wiring for one of your RV’s lights.

Always check the TV’s power requirements to ensure the wiring and fuse are sufficient for safe operation.

How to install a cigarette plug to a 12v wire?

I recommend watching this video about how to do this.

How to hang a TV on the wall in the RV?

Once you’ve chosen where to mount your TV, the first step is finding a stud in the wall to securely attach the mount. This is essential for stability. Based on the size and weight of your TV, select the appropriate anchors or screws.

Use a wall mount specifically designed for RVs, as these often include locking mechanisms to keep the TV stable during travel. A great option is the Mounting Dream mount (click to view on Amazon), which works with all the TVs in this review.

Why should I avoid a 12V TV with a built-in DVD player?

DVD players built into 12-volt TVs tend to fail more quickly than the TVs themselves due to road vibrations. When the DVD player fails, you’re left with a heavier TV that no longer offers the convenience of the built-in player.

By purchasing a separate TV and external DVD player, you can replace either component individually if one fails, saving you money and hassle in the long run. I learned this the hard way after buying a TV with a built-in DVD player that failed in under a year, while the TV is still working perfectly.

If an LCD TV uses 50 watts, how long could a 12 volt battery with 105 ah run it?

If the battery is fully charged and drained completely, it could power the TV for around 25 hours. That said, fully draining a battery isn’t recommended:

• Lead acid or gel batteries: Avoid draining below 50% to preserve the battery’s lifespan, reducing run time to about 12.5 hours.
• Lithium batteries: These can be safely drained to around 20% capacity, giving you about 20 hours of run time.

This estimate assumes the battery is powering only the TV. Other appliances in the RV can draw small amounts of power, slightly reducing the overall run time.

How many watts is a LED 12 volt 26 inch tv?

There isn’t a 26-inch model in this review, but similar 28-inch TVs consume up to 39 watts per hour. A 26-inch 12-volt TV will use slightly less, likely around 35 watts. Always check the product specifications for exact details.

Have any more questions about 12V TVs? Leave a comment below.