Best Budget TVs

Looking for Best Budget TVs that won’t break your bank? We understand the frustration of scouring endless options for quality entertainment without overspending. Our guide reveals top affordable models and smart TV alternatives that offer crisp visuals and unbeatable value. With expert insights and exciting recommendations, you’ll quickly find the perfect screen to transform your living room. Let’s dive in and uncover the best options for your budget today.

5 Budget TVs:

1. Hisense U6 Series – Best Budget TV Overall

 

 

If you’re shopping for a budget TV that doesn’t sacrifice the quality of the picture, the Hisense U6 / U6G is sure to impress. This one features the some of the best local dimming we’ve seen on a TV at this price, so it’ll look great in your dark living room. And while you may see some blooming as bright highlights appear on screen, overall picture quality is fantastic – which includes a wide color gamut, effective upscaling, and strong SDR brightness that’s not limited to dimly lit rooms.

One thing worth mentioning is it is very strong in Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) but not so bright in High Dynamic Range (HDR). It still delivers a very satisfying HDR experience though, and the TV supports formats such as Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+, guaranteeing you can watch rich, colour-saturated visuals.

The U6 is a good choice for gamers, which does support 4 k 60Hz but not HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. It does support Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), which is definitely a good thing for keeping gameplay looking a little bit smoother, and if you’re willing to sacrifice resolution, you can simply game in 1440p at 120Hz, although remember that with VRR disabled in this mode. To summarize, if you are in search of an affordable TV that a great job at casual viewing with good gaming performance without requiring you to pay extra a features you don’t really need like 4K at 120Hz, the Hisense U6/U6N is a great candidate. This way, you can get a great viewing experience without shelling out lots of cash!

2. Hisense U7 Series – Best Mini-LED Budget TV

 

 

The Hisense U7N is a worthwhile upgrade over the Hisense U6/U6N for the picture quality conscious, and for gamers looking for something that won’t cost the Earth. With exceptional contrast and black levels, and countless other non-4K enhancements that improve the quality of the image, your movie nights will be even more dynamic. You’ll also love the brilliant, lifelike colors and smart contrast of an OLED screen—your favorite shows and games will pop off the screen.

One of the strongest aspects of the U7N is its very surprising brightness, suitable for any bright living room environments. So you can get wonderful punchy highlights in HDR and benefit from a great viewing experience. And with its accurate color reproduction, what you see on screen is what the creator intended. And for audiophiles, it’s compatible with all three of the major HDR formats as well as DTS audio so you get optimal sonics.

It’s the perfect monitor for gamers too, featuring HDMI 2.1 on two ports to enable 4K gaming at up to 144Hz and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology. This compatibility deliver a game experience perfectly optimised for modern consoles and high performance PC’s. Because it responds so fast, you will experience less moving blur during those exciting action scenes.

3. Roku Smart TV – 65-Inch Plus Series – Best 4K QLED Budget TV

 

 

But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly QLED that leans into the smart stuff, the Roku Plus Series is an option, even though others like the Hisense U6N and TCL QM7 may provide slightly better image quality. One of the best things about the Roku Plus Series is its intuitive Roku OS, which happens to be our fave operating system for smart TVs.

Roku’s easy-to-use interface provides a fast and convenient way to navigate the home screen and search for your favorite streaming content with large, easy-to-identify icons for quick access to all of your favorite channels. This clean design is far less busy than the crowded layouts you see on rivals such as Fire TV OS. And if you like some personal guidance, visit the “What to watch” section in the sidebar for some recommendations curated just for you. The Roku remote is also a delight, with a hands-free voice search option and a rechargeable USB battery in a price category that doesn’t typically offer such convenience. And, the Roku app is useful for starting a sound chime in your remote (if you’ve lost it) and can’t find it.

Its QLED technology and strong HDR performance secured it a spot on this list of the best TCL TVs, although there are some sacrifices here, including less impressive viewing angles and a 60Hz refresh rate. But if you prefer a budget-friendly and reliable smart TV to make your streaming experience something to talk about, the Roku Plus Series is a good choice. Entertainment is now as easy as the press of a button.

4. TCL 65-inch QM7 QLED 4K TV – Best Smart Gaming Budget TV

 

 

For computer gamers seeking an excellent gaming TV that won’t break the bank, the TCL QM7 is the perfect choice. A lively 65-inch screen with a swift 144Hz refresh rate bodes well for an excellent gaming experience, and all of it’s going on without breaking the piggy bank. While the list price might look a bit high for a budget TV — and it is a bit pricier than most budget options — with regular discounts it’s generally quite affordable, and certainly a lot more affordable than other cheaper QLED models like the Hisense U6N, which doesn’t support a display faster than 60Hz.

This new model makes its predecessor, the Q7 QLED, look dull with some fantastic brightness levels and improved Mini LED technology that helps to deliver much better contrast control. Certainly, black levels may not be perfect, but in terms of dimming for an amazing picture, no other budget TV shines brighter than the QM7, which boasts an impressive 1,700 nits of brightness making it the brightest budget TV on the market. The rich HDR highlights in your favorite games are going to blow your mind.

It is also VRR (variable refresh rate) compatible which allows your visual display to keep up with your games frame rate without any screen tearing. There may be some higher-end models out there with slightly sharper performance, but in this price range, the QM7’s gamut of gaming servicing features is simply outstanding and all out gamer’s bargain.

5. VIZIO 50-inch MQX-Series 4K TV – Best Gaming Budget TV

 

 

If you’re gaming on a budget and in need of some stellar TV, the Vizio M50QXM-K01 could be perfect for you. This 50in TV is something of a belter in the budget category, which manages to shine brighter than rivals such as the Hisense U6K with gaming connoisseurs in mind. Whether you’re an early adopter of the 4K gaming future or looking to get the most out of your existing gaming set-up, we factor in every part of your gaming lifestyle and make sure the LG 27UL600 is right for you.

One of the M50QXM-K01’s most noteworthy features is that it supports standard variable refresh rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium, therefore, it can work great as a gaming display. They are vivid and beautiful colors (and really make your games pop), but can sometimes feel a bit oversaturated if you don’t tweak the settings a bit. While the contrast and black levels might not delve as deep as some of the higher-end models, where this TV pulls ahead is in gaming. The slightly washed-out blacks will even help improve your gameplay, as enemies hiding in the dark will be easier to spot. Great for folks who want a nice big screen to cradle their gaming setup, the Vizio M50QXM-K01 is a beautiful blend of features and cost, giving you everything you need to really get into your games. Prepare to experience unprecedented gaming thrills!

How to Choose the Right Budget TV

You may find yourself overwhelmed with options when selecting a budget TV that fits your entertainment needs. Knowing what features matter will help you make the best choice without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through the vital factors to consider, from screen size and resolution to smart features and brand reliability, ensuring you find a television that enhances your viewing experience while keeping your finances intact.

Understanding Your Budget

To effectively choose the right budget TV, you must first understand what you’re willing to spend. It’s vital to evaluate your finances, considering not just the initial purchase price, but also potential costs like taxes, warranties, and accessories. This will help you find a television that fits within your monetary constraints while still fulfilling your entertainment needs.

Setting a Realistic Budget

Realistic budgeting starts with an assessment of your current financial situation. Determine how much you can comfortably allocate to a new TV without impacting your other responsibilities. Following this, set a spending range that includes a buffer for any additional expenses. This approach will help you narrow down your options while ensuring you stay within your means.

Identifying Essential Features

With countless features available, it’s important to identify what matters most to you in a TV. Focus on the specifications that will enhance your viewing experience, such as screen size, resolution, smart capabilities, and connectivity options. Prioritize these features according to your needs, which will aid in shortlisting the most suitable options within your budget.

To refine your selection, consider how you’ll be using your TV. Will you primarily watch movies, play video games, or stream shows? Depending on your usage, features like 4K resolution, HDR support, and multiple HDMI ports may significantly enhance your experience. Take the time to research these elements, as they can greatly impact the overall performance of your new television while aligning with your specific entertainment goals.

Screen Size Considerations

While selecting a budget TV, screen size is an important factor that can greatly affect your viewing experience. You should consider your available space and the distance from which you’ll watch. A larger screen can enhance immersion, but it shouldn’t overwhelm the room or appear too distant. Finding a balanced size will ensure both comfort and enjoyment.

Measuring Your Space

Considerations for measuring your space include determining where the TV will be placed and assessing the distance from seating to screen. You can use a tape measure to gauge the area, ensuring it accommodates the TV size you wish to purchase. This step helps in visualizing how the screen will fit with your existing furniture and room layout.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Needs

Clearly, the appropriate screen size depends on your personal preferences, room layout, and viewing distance. You may prefer a larger screen for watching movies or gaming, whereas a smaller model might suit casual viewing in a compact space. Assessing your needs and the function of the TV will guide you to the best size for your lifestyle.

A good formula to figure out the ideal TV size is to consider the distance from your seating area to the screen. As a general rule, you can divide the distance (in inches) by 1.5 to 2.5 to find a range for your screen size in inches. For instance, if you’re sitting 9 feet away, that’s 108 inches; dividing by 1.5 gives you a recommended size of 72 inches, while dividing by 2.5 suggests a minimum of 43 inches. Tailoring the size to fit your specific needs ensures you enjoy optimal viewing without straining your eyes.

Viewing Distance and Room Setup

Some factors to consider when choosing the right budget TV include your viewing distance and how your room is set up. The distance between your seating and the screen plays a significant role in your overall viewing experience. A well-arranged room can enhance comfort and enjoyment, making it imperative to take these details into account before purchasing your TV.

Calculating Optimal Viewing Distance

For determining the best viewing distance, a general guideline is to sit roughly 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal size of your TV screen away. For instance, if you have a 50-inch TV, you should aim to be seated about 6.5 to 12.5 feet from the screen. This distance allows you to take in the entire image without straining your eyes, ensuring a more immersive experience.

Arranging Your Room for Comfort

Room setup can significantly affect your comfort while watching TV. Position your TV at eye level when seated, ensuring that you don’t have to strain your neck, and arrange your seating at the calculated distance for optimal viewing. Take into account the room’s lighting, as glare can interfere with your viewing experience; use curtains or adjust the furniture to minimize reflections.

Setup your room by considering the flow and space around your seating arrangement. Aim for a layout that fosters comfort, allowing for easy movement without obstacles. Incorporate soft lighting and invest in cozy seating to make your TV-watching experience enjoyable. By carefully planning your room setup, you can create an inviting environment that enhances your overall experience with your new budget TV.

Essential Features to Look For

Your new budget TV should include key features that enhance your viewing experience. Look for factors like screen size, connectivity options, and additional functionalities. These elements play a significant role in how well your TV performs and how enjoyable it is to use. By focusing on these crucial characteristics, you can find a television that balances quality and affordability, making your entertainment time more enjoyable.

Resolution and Picture Quality

Now, pay close attention to the resolution and picture quality of the television. A higher resolution, such as 4K, provides sharper images and better color accuracy, resulting in breathtaking visuals. While lower-resolution options may be more affordable, investing in a higher resolution TV can significantly enhance your viewing experience, especially when watching movies or sports.

Smart TV Capabilities

Capabilities of smart TVs can dramatically improve your overall entertainment experience. Most budget TVs now come with built-in smart features, allowing you to access popular streaming services, browse the web, and even use apps. This means you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without needing additional devices, simplifying your setup and access to content.

For instance, many budget smart TVs offer user-friendly interfaces that make navigation easy. You’ll likely find support for popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, giving you a wide array of entertainment options at your fingertips. Additionally, look for features like voice control and screen mirroring capabilities, which can further enhance your interaction with the TV and expand how you enjoy content in your home.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Many consumers overlook the importance of brand reputation and product reviews when choosing a budget TV. Selecting a well-regarded brand can give you confidence in the quality and customer support of your purchase. Understanding how a brand is perceived in the market can save you from potential dissatisfaction and ensure your investment lasts longer.

Researching Trusted Brands

There’s a multitude of brands available in the budget TV segment, but not all of them uphold high standards. To navigate your options effectively, focus on brands with a long-standing reputation for reliability and quality. Researching manufacturer history, warranty offerings, and customer service can help you make a more informed choice.

Reading User and Expert Reviews

Researching user and expert reviews can provide invaluable insights into the performance and durability of budget TVs.

A comprehensive look at both user and expert opinions will allow you to uncover specific pros and cons associated with different models. Users often share their experiences regarding picture quality, sound performance, and ease of setup, while experts usually provide technical assessments and comparisons with competing products. By balancing these perspectives, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your preferences and needs.

Warranty and Customer Support

Once again, considering warranty and customer support is important when selecting a budget TV. A solid warranty offers peace of mind, protecting your investment against potential defects or malfunctions. Additionally, responsive customer support can significantly enhance your overall experience, ensuring you receive timely assistance if any issues arise with your television.

Understanding Warranty Coverage

Coverage varies by manufacturer, so it’s important for you to familiarize yourself with the specifics of what is included in the warranty. Look for details on the duration of the warranty, the parts covered, and any limitations. Knowing these details can save you from unexpected costs down the road.

Evaluating Customer Support Options

If you encounter a problem with your TV, having reliable customer support can make a significant difference. Check the brand’s reputation for responsiveness and the availability of support channels—such as online chat, phone support, or email. Being aware of your options lets you feel more secure in your purchase.

A good approach to evaluating customer support options is to read online reviews and customer testimonials. This insight can reveal how efficiently a company resolves complaints and how knowledgeable their support staff is. Additionally, consider whether the brand has community forums or FAQs that can assist you in troubleshooting minor issues on your own. All of these factors contribute to a smoother ownership experience with your budget TV.

Conclusion

So, when choosing the right budget TV, assess your viewing habits, prioritize screen size and picture quality, and consider additional features that enhance your experience. Explore different brands and models while comparing prices to get the best deal. Always read reviews to gauge performance and reliability. By taking these steps, you can find a budget-friendly television that meets your needs and enhances your entertainment experience while making an informed decision.