### Enhanced Article: Understanding and Choosing Smart Boards
Visual communication has significantly improved with advancements in digital technology. Devices like personal computers, tablets, and smartphones have made sharing ideas quickly and efficiently possible. Smart boards, also known as interactive whiteboards, aim to enhance this further by integrating useful features from these devices to help with ideation, communication, and collaboration.
Now, you can gather your team into a room and collaborate immediately using interactive whiteboards. These devices allow for seamless remote participation, enabling note-taking, brainstorming, video watching, and online browsing, all while sharing and saving every bit of your work.
If you’re looking to purchase a smart board, here’s a helpful guide to some of the best options available today.
#### What is a Smart Board?
A smart board or interactive whiteboard is a large display similar to a traditional whiteboard but equipped with advanced features. Typically mounted on a wall, it can be used in offices, boardrooms, classrooms, coaching sessions, and project planning.
Smart boards feature a touch screen that can be operated with a smartpen or fingers, allowing you to write directly on the board or display content from other devices. They often support integration with projectors, the internet, and various applications.
As part of the global interactive display market, this segment was valued at $14.63 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $29.19 billion by 2026, growing at a rate of 8.80% annually.
#### Are Smart Boards Worth It?
Yes, interactive whiteboards can be extremely valuable for business presentations, real-time collaboration, video conferencing, and note-taking. Many models offer features like collaboration tools, interactive displays, and internal speakers, which can boost productivity and enhance presentations. With proper maintenance, these devices can last for years and adapt to evolving technology, making them a smart investment.
#### Smart Boards: Our Top Picks
Choosing the right smart board is crucial for schools, businesses, and professional settings where interactive presentations are essential. Here are some top picks based on key criteria:
1. **Samsung Flip 2**
– A 65” 4K UHD display that offers a pen-to-paper writing experience.
– Features USB, HDMI, NFC, and screen sharing for versatile connectivity.
– Can buy on Amazon.
2. **ViewSonic 98” ViewBoard**
– A 98” 4K Ultra HD interactive board with advanced IR touch technology.
– Includes myViewBoard software, SmartPort USB, and integrated stereo speakers with a subwoofer.
– Can buy on Amazon.
3. **Sharp 70″ Class Interactive Display System**
– A 70” multi-touch screen with high-definition Edge Lit LED display.
– Supports four simultaneous users with Sharp Display Connect Software.
– Can buy on Amazon.
4. **Microsoft Surface Hub 2**
– A 50” 4K touchscreen display featuring wide-angle cameras and multi-touch functionality.
– Equipped with Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, and 128 GB SSD.
– Can buy on Amazon.
5. **LG 75″ Touchscreen LCD Display**
– A 75” UHD display with 40-point capacitive touch functionality.
– Features LG webOS 3.0+ for handling multiple tasks.
– Can buy on Amazon.
6. **DTEN ME Personal Video Collaboration Digital Whiteboard**
– A 27” touchscreen designed for Zoom video conferencing with 3 cameras and 8 microphones.
– Works as a standalone Zoom platform, easy to set up.
– Can buy on Amazon.
7. **TIBURN 75-inch Interactive Whiteboard**
– Supports 4K UHD quality and up to 4 users at once.
– Functions include a projector, interactive board, computer, television, kiosk, and audio system.
– Can buy on Amazon.
8. **AHA Polyboard Interactive Flat Panel Display**
– 4K UHD screen that supports real-time collaboration and screen sharing.
– Responsive touch technology and slim, durable design.
– Can buy on Amazon.
9. **AG Neovo Meetboard 65-inch Flat Panel Interactive Display**
– A 65” screen with 4K Ultra HD resolution and 20-point multi-touch functionality.
– Features collaboration tools, wireless screen sharing, and file management apps.
– Can buy on Amazon.
#### Features to Look for In a Smart Board
When selecting a smart board, consider the following key features:
– **Display Resolution**: Higher resolution for clear and sharp images.
– **Wireless Connectivity**: Allows for hassle-free setup and easier connection.
– **Interactive Software**: Quality software that is user-friendly and compatible with various platforms.
– **Built-in Sound**: Integrated speakers for enhanced audio-visual experiences.
– **Durability**: A robust build that withstands regular use.
– **Energy Efficiency**: Models that consume less power.
– **Training and Support**: Availability of training and support services from the manufacturer.
#### Benefits of Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive whiteboards offer several benefits, including:
– **Efficient Collaboration**: Easily bring your team together in person or remotely.
– **Interactive Content Handling**: Save, share, access, edit, and collaborate in real-time.
– **Enhanced Connectivity**: Connect with PCs and smart devices for broader interactivity.
– **Cleaner Operation**: No more dealing with messy markers and erasers.
### Frequently Asked Questions
– **What is the largest smart board?**
The largest interactive whiteboards are typically 86 inches, with common sizes being 64 and 75 inches.
– **Can you use Zoom on an interactive whiteboard?**
Yes, most models support popular video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Webex.
– **How much does an interactive whiteboard cost?**
Prices range from under $1,000 to over $10,000 depending on the size and features.
Selecting a smart board that meets your needs can significantly enhance collaboration and productivity in your workplace or educational environment.
