Measuring about the size of a double CD, Casio's EV-4500 lets you enjoy clear televised images wherever you go with its 4-inch active-matrix, thin-film-resistor LCD. The television--which receives VHF channels 2 to 13 and UHF channels 14 to 69--also features a speaker and an audio/video input so you can use it with a digital camera, camcorder, or other video device. A handy desktop stand lets you position the set for hands-free viewing.
Its antiglare screen is optimized for outdoor use (for additional perspective on a sporting event, say), and a monaural earphone jack affords private listening. The EV-4500 comes with a built-in rod antenna and runs on either four AA batteries (not included) or an optional AC power adapter. Battery life averages two hours, and headphones are not included.
What's in the Box
TV, desktop stand, user's manual, and warranty information.
4 INCH SCREEN TV W/DESK
1 5" LCD COLOR TV
No matter where I placed the unit, I could not get good reception unless I had it outside of a building. I placed it near the window but it only worked for a little bit.
2 As of now, it's really the best you can get
The Casio 4" LCD Portable TV is really top of the line when it comes to handheld TVs. First off the 4" screen really makes a ton of difference. It's just not worth it to buy a screen that's only 2-3 inches even if it is cheaper, at some point it just gets too small. Secondly the picture (with perfect reception) is definitely better than the others I have seen. Thirdly even in basements and remote places the reception is always the best you can get, I actually ended up getting more channels than I was expecting. The layout makes it perfect to hold with one or two hands as well. The package does include a stand that has two adjustable positions (the back folds out as well) and although the specs say it does not include batteries, mine did for some reason.
They are pretty much correct that the battery life is two hours (although it can last out to two and a half easily).
Unfortunately what brings it down is that the store price (currently at $200) does not include any kind of adapter. It's a major draw back for something with such a short battery life not to have at least an AC or car adapter included. This would certainly justify the price a little more, but when it comes down to handheld TVs, you're really better off getting the best you can get or nothing at all.
I bought this so I wouldn't miss any March Madness, and I couldn't be any happier with the quality of the product. Overall, it's worth the price you pay and better than the other comparable models out there like the Axion ACN-5507 (which although is 5" and included two adapters... also requires 8 batteries, is not as sturdy, doesn't get as good reception and the picture is inferior).
3 Service repair unsatisfactory
I purchased this portable tv for a christmas present, after several attempts at different locations the reception is terrible. I sent it to casio for repair, they have had tv for over 4 weeks,and they are still waiting for repair parts.I have contacted them and they promice to update me with the progress but they do not. I have requested a new portable tv and they said they will repair this one. I should not have this tv in for repairs it is new.
4 Must have for Emergency
I'm buying this unit for an emergency backup for times when the power goes out. So to me I don't care if it doesn't have an included AC adapter, although it would be better if it came w/ a car adapter. I might consider using this w/ a set of AA rechargable NiMH batterries though. Great way to stay informed of any important issues, weather related or not. I'm staying away from some of the other brands I noticed that makes portable TVs, like emerson, audiovox, coby, memorex & axion- Junk brands in my opinion. I believe Casio is the leader in small portable TVs. The 4" LCD screen makes a big difference compared to some 1.8 - 3" models out there. Spend the extra $$. This model does seem pricey considering it's size, but it will be worth it when the power fails, especially for potential long outtages.
5 Casio TV EV-4500 is a good buy!
Amazon delivered promptly and professionally as usual. The set met my discerning approval. The picture is bright and clear. Living near a mountain, reception was my main concern. The set performs well under these conditions. Using the dipole rod antenna all local stations were received... some better than others. Don't expect cable TV quality reception though (although it has an input for an external antenna). Know the portable TV's limitations and you won't be disappointed. EV-4500 is well built. Sound is adequate for up close viewing and tuning is a snap. Scan through all channels - no presets. We use it for watching the news on our back porch while we have dinner and it works well. My wife uses it in the kitchen and bath suite. Too small for constant viewing but just right for a quick news show.
6 Very nice picture in a small package
If you're in the market for a portable television, I recommend you skip the 2.3 inch models and upgrade to this 4 inch Casio. You'll be amazed by the difference 2 inches can make. I've abandoned my smaller RCA portable after seeing the display on the EV-4500; the difference is striking.
The TFT LCD screen produces a sharp, detailed picture and reception is quite good even before extending the rod antenna. Sound from the small speaker is also clear but you can always use the ear jack (mono sound only). The only reason I knocked off a star is because of battery life. Casio's specs. indicate an estimate battery life of 2 hours (4 AAs); that's close to reality, so the other reviewer's recommendation is dead-on: if you plan on watching this often, buy the AC adaptor accessory (MSRP 19.95). A car adaptor is also available.
If you want a portable television with a great picture (that doesn't induce eye strain), buy this EV-4500. It's a great value.
7 Keeps Me In The News
I always like to watch the news while I make dinner but in my small kitchen it was not easy to fit a TV on the counter. I was actually looking a larger ones but my husband got me the Casio EV-4500 for Christmas last year. The pros and cons are both the same: it is small. Nice and small so it does not take up much counter space but too small for watching, say football games. But, for general weeknight news watching, it is fine.
Two notes: it did not come with a power cord and I used rechargable batteries for several months but it got very tiring to replace the batteries every 2-3 days. So, I recommend you buy the optional wall plug, which I now have too.
Also, the set did have to be returned for repair (the screen died) but they sent me a new one rather quickly. No problems so far with this one (knock wood).
