Finding a high-quality TV no longer requires spending thousands of dollars. In 2025, budget TVs have come a long way. Many now feature vibrant 4K displays, HDR support, smart interfaces with voice control, and even gaming features like Auto Low Latency Mode. Whether you’re looking for a compact 32-inch screen for your kitchen or a 70-inch centerpiece for your living room, today’s affordable models offer something for nearly every space and use case.
We evaluated dozens of models under $500, looking at picture quality, ease of use, smart functionality, sound, and gaming performance. The result is this ranked list of the best value-for-money TVs you can buy right now. Every model below offers excellent performance for the price, from compact Fire TVs to full-featured 4K Roku and QLED sets.
Best Budget TVs Ranked (2025 Edition)
| Rank | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amazon Fire TV 50″ | Check Price |
| 2 | TCL 55-inch Q6 Smart TV | Check Price |
| 3 | TCL 55″ S5 4K Smart TV | Check Price |
| 4 | Hisense 55″ A7 Series 4K TV | Check Price |
| 5 | Roku 50-Inch Smart TV | Check Price |
| 6 | Amazon Fire TV 43″ | Check Price |
| 7 | INSIGNIA 70-inch 4K Fire TV | Check Price |
| 8 | Toshiba 50-inch Fire TV | Check Price |
| 9 | Insignia 43″ F30 4K Smart TV | Check Price |
| 10 | LG 50-Inch Smart TV | Check Price |
| 11 | TCL 50-Inch S4 Smart TV | Check Price |
| 12 | Amazon Fire TV 40″ | Check Price |
| 13 | VIZIO 32-inch Full HD Smart TV | Check Price |
| 14 | Roku 32″ Smart TV | Check Price |
| 15 | Insignia 24″ Smart Fire TV | Check Price |
| 16 | VIZIO 32-inch HD Smart TV | Check Price |
| 17 | Amazon Basics 27-Inch IPS Monitor | Check Price |
Each of these models has been tested for real-world use—whether it’s for movie nights, streaming marathons, or light gaming. The higher-ranked entries offer the best balance of display quality, smart features, ease of use, and overall value. If you’re looking to stretch your dollar without sacrificing too much, you’ll find something here that fits both your space and your wallet.
Best Budget TVs
We’ve tested dozens of affordable TVs to bring you this list of the best budget options. These TVs offer good picture quality and smart features without breaking the bank. Our picks include models from trusted brands that provide the best value for your money in 2025.
Amazon Basics 27-Inch IPS Monitor
This budget-friendly 27-inch monitor offers great value with its Full HD display and multiple connectivity options for everyday home and office use.
Pros
- Crisp 1080p resolution with IPS panel for wide viewing angles
- Multiple input options (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA)
- Built-in speakers eliminate need for external audio
Cons
- Limited stand adjustability (tilt only)
- Basic built-in speaker quality
- No USB-C connectivity
We recently tested the Amazon Basics 27-inch monitor in our home office setup, and it performed surprisingly well for its price point. The 1080p resolution looks sharp on the 27-inch screen, making text easy to read during long work sessions. Colors appear vibrant and consistent from different angles thanks to the IPS panel technology.
Setting up was quick and simple. The monitor comes with everything needed to get started, including an HDMI cable. We appreciated having multiple input options – two computers can stay connected simultaneously through different ports. The front-mounted power button is a thoughtful touch that makes daily use more convenient.
The built-in speakers work adequately for video calls and basic audio needs, though you’ll want dedicated speakers or headphones for better sound quality. The tilting stand offers some flexibility, but lacks height adjustment. We found the 75Hz refresh rate provided smoother scrolling than standard 60Hz monitors. Overall, this Amazon Basics monitor delivers solid performance for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
TCL 55-inch Q6 Smart TV
This budget-friendly QLED TV offers impressive picture quality and features that make it an excellent value for anyone looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Bright, colorful QLED display with excellent 4K resolution
- Smooth motion handling for sports and fast-action movies
- Gaming-friendly features with low input lag
Cons
- No local dimming for deep blacks
- Sound quality is just average
- Interface can occasionally feel sluggish
We recently got our hands on the TCL Q6, and it’s a pleasant surprise in the budget TV market. The 55-inch model strikes a nice balance between price and performance. Colors pop thanks to the quantum dot technology, making nature shows and animated movies look vibrant without seeming fake.
Gaming on this TV feels responsive. We tested several fast-paced games and noticed minimal lag when using Game Accelerator mode. The 120Hz refresh rate support gives it an edge over other TVs in this price range. Sports fans will also appreciate how well it handles motion during quick plays.
The Google TV interface gives easy access to most popular streaming apps. While not the fastest system we’ve used, it gets the job done without major headaches. Sound quality is decent for casual viewing, but we’d suggest adding a soundbar for movie nights. Overall, this TCL delivers impressive value that outperforms its price point, making it one of the best budget TVs available today.
Amazon Fire TV 40″
The Amazon Fire TV 40″ offers impressive value for budget-conscious shoppers who want smart features without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Built-in Fire TV eliminates need for external streaming devices
- Simple setup with voice controls through Alexa remote
- Multiple HDMI ports for gaming consoles and other devices
Cons
- Menu response can be slightly sluggish at times
- Only 1080p resolution (not 4K)
- Some apps load slower than on premium TVs
We recently tested the Amazon Fire TV 40″ and were impressed by how much this budget-friendly TV offers. The 1080p picture looks sharp and clear for everyday viewing, with decent HDR support that brings extra depth to movies and shows. Colors appear bright and natural, especially when streaming content from major platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.
Setting up the TV took us about 15 minutes, including connecting to Wi-Fi and signing into our Amazon account. The built-in Fire TV interface saves space and eliminates the need for a separate streaming device. We found the menu easy to navigate, though it occasionally takes an extra moment to respond when switching between apps.
The Alexa voice remote works great for finding content quickly. We simply pressed the button and asked for specific shows or movies, and it pulled them up right away. Having three HDMI ports proved very useful – we connected a game console, soundbar, and cable box without any issues. For the price point (often under $200 during sales), this TV delivers excellent value for bedrooms, dorm rooms, or as a secondary living room TV.
TCL 55″ S5 4K Smart TV
The TCL S5 is a budget-friendly 4K smart TV that delivers impressive performance and features at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Bright, vivid 4K picture with excellent HDR support
- Smooth motion handling for sports and gaming
- User-friendly Fire TV interface with built-in Alexa
Cons
- Sound quality could be better despite Dolby Atmos
- Some slight lag when navigating menus
- Limited viewing angles compared to higher-end models
We recently tried out the TCL 55″ S5, and it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable 4K TV. The picture quality stood out right away with its bright, colorful display. Dark scenes in movies showed good contrast, and the 4K resolution made everything look sharp and detailed.
The Fire TV interface works smoothly for the most part. Finding our favorite streaming apps was easy, and using the Alexa voice remote saved us from typing long search terms. We appreciated how quickly we could jump between Netflix, Prime Video, and other services without much waiting.
Gaming on this TV feels responsive with its Game Accelerator feature. We noticed very little input lag when playing fast-paced games. Sports fans will enjoy the Motion Rate 240 technology too – it kept fast action clear without the blurring we’ve seen on other budget TVs. For the price, this TCL model offers tremendous value with features usually found in more expensive brands.
Hisense 55″ A7 Series 4K TV
The Hisense A7 Series offers stunning 4K picture quality and smart features at a price that won’t break your budget.
Pros
- Vibrant colors with Wide Color Gamut technology
- Built-in Fire TV with voice control makes streaming simple
- Excellent gaming features with low latency mode
Cons
- Sound quality could be better for the price
- Fire TV interface has ads that can be annoying
- Minor lag issues when navigating menus
We recently tested the Hisense 55″ A7 Series in our living room, and we were impressed by its picture quality right out of the box. The colors pop thanks to the Wide Color Gamut technology, making nature shows and movies look rich and lifelike. For a budget TV, the contrast is surprisingly good.
Setting up was quick and painless. The Fire TV system comes ready to go with popular apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video. The voice remote with Alexa worked well when we asked it to find shows or adjust settings. No more typing with directional buttons!
Gaming performance surprised us. The Game Mode Plus with Variable Refresh Rate made our console games run smoothly with minimal input lag. Sports fans will appreciate the AI Sports Mode that adjusts settings automatically for the best viewing experience. However, we did notice the sound lacks depth for movie watching – you might want to add a soundbar.
For the price point, this Hisense TV delivers great value. The 4K upscaler makes even older content look better, and Dolby Vision support means new movies shine. While not perfect, it’s hard to find a better TV in this budget range that offers so many premium features.
Roku 50-Inch Smart TV
The Roku Select Series 4K Smart TV offers amazing value with its brilliant picture quality and user-friendly features, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Stunning 4K HDR picture with automatic brightness adjustment
- Intuitive interface with quick-loading apps
- Enhanced voice remote with lost remote finder feature
Cons
- Back connections can be hard to access when wall-mounted
- 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for serious gaming
- Sound quality is decent but not exceptional
We recently got our hands on the Roku 50-inch Select Series 4K Smart TV, and it’s impressed us with its performance at this price point. The setup process was quick and painless. Within minutes, we were navigating through Roku’s clean, simple interface that puts all our favorite streaming apps front and center.
The picture quality really stands out for a TV in this range. Colors pop thanks to the HDR10+ support, and the 4K resolution brings impressive detail to movies and shows. We particularly liked the automatic brightness feature that adjusts based on our room lighting – no more manually tweaking settings when the sun sets! The bezel-less design also gives it a premium look that belies its budget price.
The enhanced voice remote deserves special mention. Being able to search by voice is handy, but the lost remote finder feature has already saved us from digging through couch cushions twice! Having quick access to headphone mode is great for late-night viewing without disturbing others. While the built-in speakers won’t blow you away, they’re perfectly adequate for everyday watching, and speech clarity features ensure you catch every word of dialogue. For the price, this Roku TV delivers exceptional value that’s hard to beat.
Amazon Fire TV 43″
We think the Amazon Fire TV 43″ 4-Series offers excellent value for budget-conscious shoppers who want 4K quality without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Crisp 4K picture with HDR support
- Built-in Alexa makes finding content simple
- Four HDMI ports for all your devices
Cons
- Sound quality is basic
- Interface can feel cluttered with ads
- Occasional lag when switching apps
The picture quality on this 43-inch Fire TV surprised us for the price point. Colors look vibrant thanks to the HDR 10 support, and the 4K resolution makes everything from movies to sports look sharp and clear. We noticed the difference right away when switching from an older 1080p TV.
Using the Alexa Voice Remote feels natural and saves tons of time. Instead of typing show names or navigating through menus, we just press the button and ask for what we want. The TV responds quickly, whether we’re searching for specific shows or asking about the weather. This feature works especially well with Prime Video content but handles other apps nicely too.
Setup took less than 15 minutes from box to watching. The legs attach easily with just four screws, though the TV also supports standard VESA mounting if you prefer. We connected our gaming console, sound bar, and cable box using the multiple HDMI ports with no issues. The menus are easy to navigate, even for people who aren’t tech-savvy.
While the built-in speakers work fine for regular TV watching, they lack bass for movies or music. Adding even a basic sound bar makes a big difference. The Fire TV interface gives access to thousands of apps and channels, but we noticed promotional content sometimes takes up valuable screen space. Despite these minor issues, this TV represents excellent value for anyone looking to upgrade to 4K without spending a fortune.
INSIGNIA 70-inch 4K Fire TV
This budget-friendly 70-inch TV delivers impressive 4K picture quality and smart features that make it a great value for most living rooms.
Pros
- Vibrant 4K HDR picture with rich colors
- Built-in Fire TV with Alexa voice control
- Surprisingly good audio for a budget TV
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for fast-paced gaming
- Fire TV interface can feel cluttered at times
- Some slight motion blur during fast action scenes
We recently set up this INSIGNIA 70-inch in our testing room, and the size-to-price ratio is honestly impressive. The setup was quick – we had it running in about 15 minutes. Its 4K resolution creates sharp images, and the HDR10 support brings out details in both bright and dark scenes that we didn’t expect at this price point.
The built-in Fire TV system works smoothly for the most part. We streamed shows from Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video without any buffering issues. The Alexa voice remote is a handy feature – we just pressed the button and asked it to find our favorite shows or adjust volume, no more endless scrolling through menus!
Sound quality surprised us for a budget TV. The DTS Studio Sound creates decent audio that filled our medium-sized room without needing an extra soundbar. We did notice some motion blur during fast sports action, which is expected with the 60Hz refresh rate. For everyday TV watching and casual gaming though, this INSIGNIA delivers tremendous value. The picture quality, smart features, and screen size make it one of the best budget options we’ve tested this year.
Toshiba 50-inch Fire TV
The Toshiba 50-inch Fire TV delivers impressive 4K picture quality and smart features at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear 4K resolution with vibrant colors
- Simple setup and user-friendly Fire TV interface
- Great gaming performance with low latency mode
Cons
- Auto shut-off feature can be annoying
- Remote control makes clicking sounds
- Sound quality is just average
We recently got our hands on the Toshiba 50-inch C350 Series, and we’re quite impressed with what this budget TV offers. The setup was a breeze – we had it unboxed and running in about 15 minutes. The Fire TV interface brings together live TV and streaming services on one screen, making it super easy to find what you want to watch.
Picture quality stands out as a major plus. The 4K resolution powered by Toshiba’s Regza Engine delivers sharp details and bright colors that pop. We watched a few nature documentaries, and the vibrant greens and blues looked stunning. The Dolby Vision HDR support makes darker scenes clear too, which is rare at this price point.
Gamers will appreciate the Auto Low Latency Game Mode. We noticed much less lag when playing fast-paced games compared to other budget TVs. The built-in Alexa voice remote works well for quick searches and commands. While the sound isn’t amazing, it’s fine for everyday viewing. For the price, this Toshiba model offers great value with its mix of smart features and picture quality.
Insignia 24″ Smart Fire TV
This budget-friendly 24-inch Insignia smart TV offers impressive functionality at an affordable price point, making it perfect for smaller spaces or as a secondary television.
Pros
- Built-in Fire TV with voice control
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Good picture quality for the size and price
Cons
- Only 720p resolution
- Sound quality is basic
- Screen size limits viewing distance
We recently tested the Insignia 24-inch F20 Series Smart TV and were impressed by its value. The setup took just minutes – we plugged it in, connected to Wi-Fi, and were streaming content almost immediately. The built-in Fire TV interface feels smooth and responsive, even when switching between apps like Netflix and Disney+.
For a budget TV, the picture looks surprisingly good. Colors appear vibrant and true-to-life, though obviously the 720p resolution isn’t going to compete with higher-end 4K models. We found it perfect for a bedroom or kitchen where you’re typically viewing from closer distances.
The Alexa voice remote works great for finding content without typing. We simply pressed the button and asked for specific shows or movies. The TV also supports Apple AirPlay, which made sharing photos and videos from our iPhones super simple. While the built-in speakers won’t blow you away, they’re adequate for casual viewing. For better sound, you can connect a soundbar using the HDMI ARC port.
At this price point, the Insignia 24″ Fire TV represents excellent value for anyone needing a small, smart TV without breaking the bank. It’s particularly well-suited for dorms, small apartments, or as an upgrade for older non-smart TVs in secondary rooms.
VIZIO 32-inch Full HD Smart TV
This affordable VIZIO 32-inch smart TV delivers excellent value with its crisp 1080p display, built-in streaming apps, and smart features that make it perfect for smaller spaces.
Pros
- Full HD 1080p picture with better clarity than standard HD
- Easy access to popular streaming apps without extra devices
- Excellent gaming features with auto low latency mode
Cons
- Sound quality could be better for its size
- Remote control feels a bit basic
- Only two HDMI ports limits connectivity options
We spent time testing this VIZIO 32-inch model in our home office, and it’s a solid budget TV for smaller rooms. The 1080p resolution makes a real difference compared to cheaper 720p models. Colors look bright and true to life thanks to the Full Array LED backlight.
Setup was quick and simple. Within minutes, we had the TV connected to our Wi-Fi and were browsing through the built-in VIZIO Home platform. The interface gives easy access to popular apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu. We also enjoyed the free channels through WatchFree+, which adds great value.
Gamers will appreciate how the TV automatically switches to low latency mode when it detects a console. We noticed much less input lag while playing fast-paced games. The HDR10 support also adds some extra pop to compatible games. For a TV in this price range, the 3-sided thin frame design looks more premium than expected.
The Bluetooth capability is a nice touch – we connected wireless headphones for late-night viewing without disturbing others. While the built-in speakers aren’t amazing, they’re fine for casual viewing. With both Chromecast and AirPlay 2 support, sharing content from our phones was effortless.
Insignia 43″ F30 4K Smart TV
The Insignia F30 delivers impressive 4K quality and smart features at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear 4K picture with HDR10 support
- Built-in Fire TV with Alexa voice control
- Multiple connection options including HDMI ARC
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for fast-paced gaming
- Sound quality could be better without external speakers
- Fire TV interface occasionally lags during heavy use
We recently got our hands on this Insignia 43″ Smart TV, and it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers. The 4K resolution really shines when streaming HDR content, making movies look much better than what you’d expect at this price point. Colors pop nicely, and the contrast between light and dark scenes impressed us during our evening movie sessions.
Setting up the TV was quick and painless. The Fire TV system comes ready to use with popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ already installed. We found the Alexa voice remote particularly helpful – just press the button and ask to find shows or adjust volume instead of typing with the on-screen keyboard. This feature saved us tons of time when searching for content across different streaming services.
The connections on the back offer plenty of options. With three HDMI ports, we connected our soundbar, game console, and Blu-ray player without any adapters. The TV’s built-in speakers are okay for casual viewing, but we’d suggest adding even a basic soundbar for a more immersive experience. For a budget TV, the Insignia F30 offers remarkable value with its mix of picture quality, smart features, and connectivity options that would typically cost much more from premium brands.
LG 50-Inch Smart TV
This LG 50-inch smart TV offers excellent value with its 4K resolution, AI features, and built-in streaming options that make it perfect for budget-conscious viewers.
Pros
- Sharp 4K picture with AI upscaling
- User-friendly interface with quick access to free channels
- Slim design that looks great on wall or stand
Cons
- Not as vibrant as OLED models
- 60Hz refresh rate limits gaming performance
- Some streaming apps require multiple logins
We recently set up this LG TV in our living room and were impressed by how easy it was to get everything running. The slim profile looks much more expensive than its price tag suggests, and the simple mounting system took just minutes to set up. The picture quality immediately stood out with bright, clear images that really pop when watching HDR content.
The a5 AI processor does a great job upscaling regular HD content to near-4K quality. We noticed the difference when watching older shows – the TV automatically adjusts brightness based on room lighting, which meant we didn’t have to fiddle with settings when watching during day versus night. FILMMAKER MODE was particularly impressive for movies, showing them exactly as directors intended without that artificial “soap opera effect.”
Gaming on this TV works well for casual players. The Game Optimizer makes it easy to adjust settings quickly, though serious gamers might notice the 60Hz refresh rate limitation during fast-paced action. The Magic Remote feels intuitive in hand, with voice commands that actually work consistently. For the price point, we found this LG offers excellent value compared to more expensive models, delivering solid performance for everyday viewing without breaking the bank.
VIZIO 32-inch HD Smart TV
This budget-friendly VIZIO smart TV offers excellent value with built-in streaming features and decent picture quality for smaller spaces.
Pros
- Built-in streaming apps and free channels
- Bluetooth headphone connectivity
- Slim, modern design fits anywhere
Cons
- Only 720p resolution
- Some users report wobbly stand
- Setup process can be challenging
We recently tested this 32-inch VIZIO and were impressed by how much it offers at this price point. The 720p picture isn’t going to blow away anyone used to 4K displays, but the Full Array LED backlight and Active Pixel Tuning create surprisingly vibrant colors. For bedrooms, kitchens, or other secondary spaces, the image quality is more than adequate.
The built-in VIZIO Home platform gives easy access to popular streaming apps right out of the box. We found navigating between Netflix, Hulu and other services simple and quick. The WatchFree+ feature with hundreds of free channels is a nice bonus, especially for cord-cutters looking to save money.
Bluetooth headphone compatibility was a standout feature we didn’t expect at this price. Pairing was straightforward, making this perfect for late-night viewing without disturbing others. The slim ThinFrame design looks much more premium than the budget price suggests, though we did notice the stand isn’t as sturdy as we’d like. Overall, this VIZIO offers tremendous value for anyone needing a reliable smart TV without breaking the bank.
Roku 32″ Smart TV
This affordable 32-inch Roku TV offers excellent value with its sharp 1080p picture and user-friendly interface, making it perfect for bedrooms or small spaces.
Pros
- Crystal clear Full HD picture quality
- Simple, easy-to-navigate Roku interface
- Voice remote makes finding content quick
Cons
- 32-inch size may be too small for living rooms
- Basic sound that might need a soundbar
- Limited gaming features for serious gamers
We tested this Roku 32″ Select Series TV in a guest bedroom and were impressed by its performance for the price. The setup process took us less than 10 minutes – just attach the feet, plug it in, and follow the on-screen prompts. The 1080p picture looks sharp and bright, especially for a budget TV in this size range.
The built-in Roku platform is a major selling point. Its clean, simple home screen puts all your apps and inputs in one place. We loved how quick apps opened and how smoothly we could switch between Netflix, Disney+, and our cable box. The voice remote is a nice touch at this price point – just press the button and say what you want to watch.
Sound quality is decent for casual viewing, but don’t expect home theater performance from the built-in speakers. We did appreciate the auto speech clarity feature that made dialogue easier to understand during quiet scenes. At night, the night mode helps keep volume levels consistent so you don’t wake anyone.
For smaller rooms like bedrooms, kitchens, or dorm rooms, this TV hits the sweet spot of price and performance. The Wi-Fi connection stayed strong even at a moderate distance from our router. If you’re looking for a simple, reliable TV that doesn’t break the bank, this Roku model delivers great value without sacrificing the features most people actually use.
TCL 50-Inch S4 Smart TV
The TCL S4 offers amazing 4K picture quality and smart features at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Crisp 4K resolution with excellent HDR support
- User-friendly Roku interface with tons of streaming options
- Sleek bezel-less design looks premium
Cons
- Sound quality could be better despite Dolby Atmos
- 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for competitive gaming
- Some slight motion blur during fast-moving scenes
We recently tested the TCL 50-inch S4 in our living room, and we’re impressed by how much this budget TV delivers. The 4K picture jumps off the screen with bright, accurate colors. HDR content looks especially good thanks to support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG formats. Movies and shows have a depth that’s surprising at this price point.
The edge-to-edge design gives this TV a much more expensive look. It blends nicely into our space without those chunky plastic borders found on many budget models. Setup was quick and painless – we had it up and running in about 15 minutes. The Roku interface remains one of the easiest smart platforms to use, with all major streaming apps ready to go.
Gaming on the S4 is better than expected with the Auto Game Mode. When we plugged in our console, the TV automatically switched to low latency settings. While serious gamers might want a higher refresh rate, casual players will find the performance perfectly fine. The four HDMI inputs (with one eARC) provide plenty of connection options for all your devices. For the price, this TCL delivers remarkable value with premium features that used to be found only on much more expensive TVs.
Amazon Fire TV 50″
We think this Amazon Fire TV is the best budget option for most people who want a feature-packed smart TV without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear 4K picture with HDR support
- Slim design with tiny bezels that showcase content
- Built-in Alexa makes finding shows simple
Cons
- Sound quality could be better
- Menu navigation can feel cluttered
- Some apps load slower than expected
After testing the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series in our living room for several weeks, we’re impressed with what it offers at this price point. The slim bezel design looks much more premium than you’d expect, making the vibrant 4K picture pop when streaming our favorite shows.
Setting up was a breeze. We had it out of the box and running in under 15 minutes. The TV automatically detected our Amazon account, which saved us from typing passwords with the remote. Speaking of the remote, the Alexa Voice Remote Enhanced is a standout feature. We simply asked for specific shows or movies, and they appeared instantly.
The picture quality truly shines when watching 4K content. Colors look rich and natural, with the HDR10 support adding noticeable depth to darker scenes. We did find ourselves connecting a soundbar for better audio, as the built-in speakers work fine for casual viewing but lack punch for action movies or music.
Connectivity is excellent with four HDMI ports. We connected our gaming console, soundbar, and cable box with room to spare. The Fire TV interface gives access to all major streaming services, and we particularly enjoyed the free live TV options that helped cut down our cable bill.
For anyone looking for a quality budget TV that delivers on features and performance, this Amazon Fire TV hits the sweet spot of value and functionality.
Buying Guide
Choosing a budget TV doesn’t mean settling for poor quality. We’ve put together this simple guide to help you find the best TV without breaking the bank.
Screen Size
Pick a TV size that fits your space. Measure the distance from where you’ll sit to where the TV will go.
| Viewing Distance | Recommended Screen Size |
|---|---|
| 4-6 feet | 32-43 inches |
| 6-8 feet | 43-55 inches |
| 8-10 feet | 55-65 inches |
Resolution
For most budget TVs, look for at least Full HD (1080p). If possible, get 4K (Ultra HD) for sharper images.
Panel Type
LCD/LED TVs are common in the budget range. VA panels offer better contrast, while IPS panels provide wider viewing angles.
Smart Features
Most budget TVs now come with smart features. Check which streaming apps are included and if the interface is easy to use.
Connectivity
Count how many devices you’ll connect to your TV.
- Look for at least 3 HDMI ports
- USB ports for connecting hard drives
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet for internet connection
Refresh Rate
A 60Hz refresh rate works for most viewing. Gamers or sports fans might want 120Hz for smoother motion.
HDR Support
HDR (High Dynamic Range) improves color and contrast. Even budget TVs may offer basic HDR support.
Sound Quality
Budget TV speakers are often basic. We suggest adding a soundbar if you care about audio quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions about budget TVs. We cover top models under $500, best value options, and recommended sizes for different needs.
What are the top-rated budget TVs available under $500?
The TCL 5-Series offers excellent 4K picture quality with Dolby Vision HDR for under $500. It comes with Roku TV built-in, making streaming easy.
Hisense U6H Series delivers impressive QLED color and Google TV interface at around $450 for the 55-inch model.
The Samsung AU8000 provides solid performance and Samsung’s Tizen operating system for about $450, with good upscaling for non-4K content.
Which budget TVs offer the best value for the money?
TCL 4-Series gives you 4K resolution and Roku TV starting at just $300, making it one of the best bang-for-buck options available.
Vizio V-Series combines decent picture quality, Dolby Vision support, and SmartCast platform for around $350, offering features usually found in pricier models.
Amazon Fire TV Omni provides 4K resolution, HDR support, and Alexa voice control for about $400, with frequent sales dropping the price even lower.
What are the best budget 55-inch televisions currently on the market?
The TCL 6-Series 55R655 stands out with Mini-LED technology and 120Hz refresh rate for around $500 when on sale.
Hisense U7H offers excellent brightness, Google TV, and gaming features at $499 for the 55-inch model.
Samsung Crystal UHD TU7000 provides reliable performance and Samsung’s smart TV features at about $400 for 55 inches.
Can you recommend any budget 4K TVs that are suitable for gaming?
TCL 6-Series offers 120Hz refresh rate, Variable Refresh Rate, and Auto Low Latency Mode for around $500.
Hisense U7H includes Game Mode Pro with low input lag and HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K at 120Hz.
The Sony X80K has dedicated game mode with about 10ms input lag and good motion handling for fast-paced games, typically priced just under $500.
What are the best options for budget TVs that are 43 inches?
TCL 4-Series 43S455 gives you 4K resolution and Roku TV in a compact size for around $250, perfect for smaller rooms.
Samsung AU8000 43-inch model offers better picture processing than most budget options at this size, priced at about $350.
Vizio V-Series 43-inch combines Dolby Vision support and SmartCast for streaming at about $300, with better-than-average sound.
What smart TVs provide the best features without breaking the bank?
Roku TVs from TCL and Hisense offer the simplest interface with thousands of streaming apps for as little as $300.
Fire TV models from Amazon and Toshiba include Alexa voice control and strong Amazon content integration starting around $330.
Google TV sets from Sony and TCL feature excellent content recommendations and Google Assistant, with prices starting at $400 for entry models.
