TVs in the 48- to 50-inch range hit a rare sweet spot: they’re big enough to deliver immersive 4K viewing, but compact enough to fit comfortably in apartments, bedrooms, and mid-sized living rooms. Whether you’re upgrading a secondary screen or searching for a well-rounded centerpiece, this category now features everything from high-end OLED models to affordable 4K HDR sets with surprisingly strong performance.
What sets this size range apart today is how many premium technologies have trickled down. You’ll find HDMI 2.1 support for next-gen gaming, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for cinema-quality visuals, and smart platforms that rival set-top boxes. It’s no longer just about screen size—it’s about value, software experience, and performance in motion handling, color accuracy, and input lag.
After weeks of research and hands-on testing, we’ve ranked the very best 48″, 49″, and 50″ TVs currently available. Whether your priority is movie quality, gaming responsiveness, or just getting the best bang for your buck, there’s a standout here for you.
🔝 Best 48–50 Inch TVs Ranked
| Rank | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sony A90K 48-inch OLED TV | Check Price |
| 2 | TCL 50-inch 5-Series QLED TV | Check Price |
| 3 | LG C2 48-inch OLED TV | Check Price |
| 4 | TCL 50-Inch S4 4K Smart TV | Check Price |
| 5 | Roku Select Series 50″ 4K TV | Check Price |
| 6 | TCL 50-Inch S5 Smart TV | Check Price |
| 7 | Samsung 50-Inch Crystal UHD TV | Check Price |
| 8 | Samsung 50″ Crystal UHD TV | Check Price |
| 9 | Toshiba 50-inch 4K Fire TV | Check Price |
| 10 | Hisense 50″ Class A7 Series 4K TV | Check Price |
| 11 | Samsung 50-Inch Crystal UHD Business TV | Check Price |
| 12 | Sony 50-Inch Bravia 3 Smart TV | Check Price |
| 13 | Amazon Fire TV 50″ | Check Price |
Each TV in this lineup was selected for excelling in specific use cases. From OLED panels that deliver pixel-perfect blacks to budget-friendly LED models with surprising punch, this list is built to help you skip the guesswork. Read on for detailed reviews, comparisons, and buying advice that make your next TV purchase easy—and worth every penny.
Best 48″, 49″, & 50″ Inch TVs
We’ve researched and selected the top 48, 49, and 50-inch TVs available today. These mid-sized televisions offer the perfect balance between screen space and room fit, making them ideal for medium-sized living rooms and bedrooms. Our picks include models with excellent picture quality, smart features, and value at various price points.
TCL 50-Inch S4 4K Smart TV
We recommend the TCL 50-inch S4 for anyone seeking an affordable 4K smart TV with premium features that performs well above its price point.
Pros
- Excellent 4K picture quality with multiple HDR format support
- Intuitive Roku interface with extensive app selection
- Great gaming performance with Auto Game Mode
Cons
- Sound quality could be better despite Dolby Atmos
- Brightness may be insufficient in very bright rooms
- Remote lacks voice control button
The TCL 50-inch S4 impressed us with its crisp 4K resolution and vibrant colors. When we tested HDR content, the TV displayed stunning contrast between bright and dark areas. The bezel-less design gives it a premium look that blends nicely with any home décor, making it seem more expensive than it actually is.
Setting up this TV was straightforward. The Roku interface remains one of the easiest smart platforms to navigate. We found ourselves quickly accessing favorite streaming services without any lag or freezing. The remote is simple but effective, though we wish it included a voice control button for easier searching.
Gaming on this TV feels responsive thanks to the Auto Game Mode. The feature automatically detects when you’re playing and switches to low latency mode. We noticed minimal input lag when playing fast-paced games. Motion Rate 120 technology helped smooth out action scenes in both games and movies, though it’s not quite as fluid as higher-end models. For the price, this 50-inch TCL delivers exceptional value with features typically found in more expensive TVs.
Roku Select Series 50″ 4K TV
We think this Roku-made 4K TV delivers exceptional value with its smart features and picture quality at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Bright, vivid 4K HDR picture that adjusts to room lighting
- User-friendly interface with quick app loading
- Enhanced voice remote with headphone mode and lost remote finder
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for serious gaming
- Back connections can be hard to access when wall-mounted
- Sound quality is decent but not exceptional
The Roku Select Series 50″ 4K TV impressed us with its crisp, detailed picture. Colors look rich and vibrant thanks to HDR10+ support. We really liked how the screen automatically adjusts brightness based on room lighting – no more fumbling with settings when watching during the day versus at night.
Setting up this TV was a breeze. The Roku interface is simple to navigate with a clean home screen that puts all our streaming apps, inputs, and free live TV channels in one place. Apps open quickly, and we noticed almost no lag when switching between different streaming services. The enhanced voice remote made searching for content easy – we just pressed a button and asked for what we wanted to watch.
Connection options are plentiful with multiple HDMI ports for our gaming console, sound bar, and Blu-ray player. We enjoyed the seamless access to free content through the Roku platform – hundreds of live TV channels plus Roku Originals give plenty to watch without subscription costs. The lost remote finder feature saved us multiple times when the remote slipped between couch cushions. For under $300, this TV offers features and performance that typically cost much more.
TCL 50-Inch S5 Smart TV
The TCL 50-inch S5 offers excellent 4K picture quality with advanced gaming features at a price that makes it one of the best mid-range TV options available today.
Pros
- Bright, vibrant picture with Dolby Vision and HDR support
- Smooth motion handling with 240 Motion Rate for sports and action
- Game Accelerator 120 with VRR reduces lag for responsive gaming
Cons
- Fire TV interface can feel cluttered with ads
- Sound quality needs a boost despite Dolby Atmos support
- Limited viewing angles compared to higher-end models
We recently tested the TCL 50-inch S5 in our living room, and its 4K resolution really shines when watching nature documentaries. The colors pop thanks to the High Brightness LED backlight. Dark scenes in movies show good detail without that washed-out look cheaper TVs often have.
The bezel-less design gives this TV a premium feel that blends nicely into any room. Setting it up took less than 10 minutes, and the Fire TV interface was simple to navigate, though we did notice quite a few ads. The remote includes a voice button for Alexa, which worked well for finding shows without typing.
For gaming, this TV surprised us. The Game Accelerator mode with VRR made fast-paced games feel responsive with minimal input lag. Sports fans will appreciate the Motion Rate 240 technology too – it kept fast-moving action clear without the blur we’ve seen on other TVs in this price range. While the built-in speakers are okay for everyday watching, we’d recommend adding a soundbar to fully enjoy the Dolby Atmos capability this TV supports.
Samsung 50-Inch Crystal UHD TV
We recommend this 2024 Samsung TV for its excellent color accuracy, smart features, and value price point.
Pros
- Vibrant PurColor technology creates lifelike images
- Object Tracking Sound Lite creates immersive audio
- Easy-to-use smart features with Samsung TV Plus
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy hardcore gamers
- Remote feels basic compared to premium models
- Setup process can be challenging for some users
After spending time with Samsung’s 50-inch Crystal UHD TV in our living room, we’re impressed with its picture quality. The colors pop thanks to PurColor technology, making nature scenes and movies look rich and realistic. We noticed the 4K upscaling works well, improving the look of our older HD content.
The sound quality surprised us. Object Tracking Sound Lite creates a virtual surround effect that follows action across the screen. When we watched action movies, explosions and car chases felt more immersive than we expected from built-in TV speakers. Pairing it with a Samsung soundbar unlocks Q-Symphony, which uses both the TV and soundbar speakers together for better audio.
Smart features are simple to navigate using the Tizen OS. We enjoyed the free Samsung TV Plus channels that work right out of the box with just a Wi-Fi connection. The Motion Xcelerator helped reduce blur during fast sports scenes, though at 60Hz it’s not as smooth as higher-end 120Hz models. For everyday viewing and casual gaming, this 50-inch Samsung delivers excellent value with picture quality that outperforms its price point.
Samsung 50″ Crystal UHD TV
The Samsung 50″ Crystal UHD TV offers impressive picture quality, smart features, and a slim design that makes it a solid mid-range choice for most living rooms.
Pros
- Ultra-slim design blends seamlessly with walls
- Excellent 4K upscaling transforms lower resolution content
- Built-in gaming hub eliminates need for separate console
Cons
- Remote is minimal with few buttons
- 60Hz refresh rate may disappoint serious gamers
- Sound quality, while good, isn’t comparable to dedicated speakers
We recently tested the Samsung 50″ Crystal UHD DU8000 Series, and its AirSlim design immediately caught our attention. The TV practically disappears against the wall with its thin profile, giving our testing room a much cleaner look than bulkier models we’ve tried before.
The picture quality impressed us during our viewing tests. The 4K Crystal processor does a remarkable job upscaling regular HD content. We noticed significant improvements in clarity when watching older shows. The Dynamic Crystal Color technology delivers vibrant colors that pop without looking artificial, especially during nature documentaries where subtle color variations matter.
Motion handling on this TV works better than expected for a 60Hz panel. The Motion Xcelerator technology reduced blur during fast-moving scenes in action movies and sports. While hardcore gamers might prefer 120Hz models, casual gamers will appreciate the built-in Gaming Hub that lets you stream games without a console. We tried several games through the hub and found the experience surprisingly responsive.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations for a slim TV. The Object Tracking Sound Lite created a more immersive audio experience, with sound that seemed to follow on-screen action. That said, we still recommend a soundbar for movie enthusiasts wanting deeper bass response.
Smart features run on Samsung’s Tizen OS, which offers easy access to popular streaming services. The built-in Alexa functionality worked well for voice commands during our tests. However, we found the minimalist remote somewhat limiting – while it’s uncluttered, we missed having dedicated buttons for certain functions.
Toshiba 50-inch 4K Fire TV
We recommend the Toshiba 50-inch C350 Series for anyone seeking a feature-rich 4K smart TV with excellent picture quality at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Outstanding 4K resolution with Regza Engine processing
- Easy-to-use Fire TV interface with Alexa integration
- Low latency game mode improves gaming experience
Cons
- TV automatically shuts off when inactive
- Remote control makes noticeable clicking sounds
- Sound quality could be better for this price range
The Toshiba 50-inch C350 offers impressive picture quality for everyday viewing. After testing it in various lighting conditions, we found the 4K resolution truly shines when watching movies and sports. The Regza Engine 4K technology enhances every image with crisp details and vibrant colors that pop off the screen.
Setting up this TV couldn’t be easier. We had it unboxed, mounted, and running in under 30 minutes. The Fire TV interface puts all your streaming services on one convenient home screen. We particularly enjoyed using the Alexa voice remote to search for shows across platforms without endless clicking through menus.
Gamers will appreciate the Auto Low Latency Game Mode. We tested several fast-paced games and noticed significantly reduced input lag compared to standard mode. The Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 support also creates more realistic gaming environments with enhanced contrast and color accuracy. Though not the thinnest TV on the market, its sleek design looks modern in any room setting.
The TV’s weight of just 19.8 pounds makes it surprisingly light for a 50-inch model. This made wall mounting much easier than expected. We did notice the auto-shutoff feature can be annoying during longer viewing breaks, but this can be adjusted in the settings menu. Overall, this Toshiba delivers excellent value with its combination of picture quality, smart features, and reasonable price point.
Hisense 50″ Class A7 Series 4K TV
The Hisense A7 offers exceptional value with its vibrant colors, smart features, and gaming capabilities making it a solid choice for most living rooms.
Pros
- Impressive color range with Wide Color Gamut technology
- Built-in Fire TV with voice remote simplifies streaming
- Game Mode Plus features improve gaming experience
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate might not satisfy hardcore gamers
- Sound quality could benefit from an external soundbar
- Menu navigation can feel sluggish at times
We recently tested the Hisense 50″ A7 Series in our home theater setup, and the color reproduction immediately caught our attention. The Wide Color Gamut technology brings shows and movies to life with rich, accurate colors that pop off the screen. Dark scenes in particular benefit from the HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support, revealing details that would be lost on lesser displays.
Setting up this TV was surprisingly simple. The Fire TV interface came pre-installed, allowing us to quickly sign in to our streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video. The included voice remote with Alexa worked well for finding content without endless scrolling. We simply asked for “action movies” and received instant results across multiple platforms.
For gamers, this TV offers some nice features despite its 60Hz limitation. The Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) helped reduce lag when we tested with our console. The 4K AI upscaler also impressed us when watching older content, making even non-4K shows look sharper and more detailed. At 50 inches, this TV strikes a perfect balance for medium-sized rooms without overwhelming the space.
The built-in speakers deliver adequate sound for casual viewing, but we noticed dialogue could sometimes get muddy during action sequences. Adding a basic soundbar would significantly enhance the Dolby Atmos capabilities. Overall, this Hisense model delivers excellent performance and features at a price point that won’t break the bank.
Samsung 50-Inch Crystal UHD Business TV
This business-focused Samsung display delivers impressive 4K visuals with commercial functionality, though it may be overkill for standard home use.
Pros
- Excellent upscaling of lower-resolution content to 4K
- Sleek three-sided bezel-less design
- Simple content management through mobile app
Cons
- Higher price than consumer models with similar specs
- Business features unnecessary for regular home viewing
- Limited smart TV functions compared to standard models
We recently tested Samsung’s 50-inch BED-H Series display and found it hits a unique spot in the market. This isn’t your typical living room TV – it’s built specifically for business environments like retail stores, waiting rooms, and restaurants. The Crystal UHD processor does an impressive job boosting lower-quality content to near-4K quality, which makes even basic signage look sharp and professional.
The slim design with minimal bezels on three sides gives this TV a modern, premium look. We particularly liked how it blended into our test environment without dominating the space. At just 2.36 inches deep, it maintains a low profile when mounted on a wall. Setup was straightforward, though we noticed the basic remote lacks some convenience features found on Samsung’s consumer models.
What really sets this model apart is the Business TV App. We loaded custom announcements and promotional materials through our phones and scheduled them to display at specific times. The content management system works surprisingly well for a business that needs to update displays regularly. While this 50-inch model carries a premium over regular consumer TVs with similar picture quality, the commercial-grade durability and business features justify the cost for organizations that need reliable digital signage.
Sony 50-Inch Bravia 3 Smart TV
The Sony Bravia 3 offers stunning picture quality, smart features, and PlayStation 5 compatibility that makes it worth the investment for most living rooms.
Pros
- Vibrant colors with Triluminos Pro technology
- Google TV interface with voice assistant
- Exclusive PlayStation 5 gaming features
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate may disappoint serious gamers
- Some users report occasional freezing
- Sound quality is good but not exceptional
I tested the Sony 50-inch Bravia 3 in my living room for a few weeks, and the picture quality immediately stands out. The colors pop with amazing accuracy thanks to the Triluminos Pro technology. When I watched nature documentaries, the greens of forests and blues of oceans looked realistic rather than artificially enhanced.
The Google TV interface makes finding content simple. We navigated easily between Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube without lag. The voice search feature saved us time when looking for specific shows. The included Sony Pictures CORE app with 5 movie credits is a nice bonus that we didn’t expect.
For gamers, this TV shines when paired with PlayStation 5. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping made games like Spider-Man look incredible with perfect contrast. The dedicated Game Menu lets us adjust settings quickly between gaming sessions. Though it only has a 60Hz refresh rate, casual gamers won’t notice any issues during play.
The 4K upscaling works well on non-4K content. We watched some older shows, and the TV made them look much better than expected. The X-Balanced Speaker delivers clear dialogue, but for a full theater experience, you’ll want to add a soundbar.
Setup took about 20 minutes with the well-designed stand. The slim bezel design looks modern on our TV console. At this price point, the Bravia 3 delivers excellent value compared to higher-end models while still providing that signature Sony quality.
Amazon Fire TV 50″
We recommend the Amazon Fire TV 50″ 4-Series for anyone seeking an affordable 4K smart TV with excellent picture quality and built-in streaming capabilities.
Pros
- Vivid 4K picture with HDR 10 support
- User-friendly Alexa voice controls
- Four HDMI ports for multiple devices
Cons
- Sound quality could be better
- Occasional interface lag
- Some apps load slowly
This Fire TV delivers impressive picture quality for its price point. We noticed the 4K resolution brings shows and movies to life with sharp details and vibrant colors. The HDR 10 support makes a real difference when watching nature documentaries and action films, with brighter highlights and deeper blacks than standard TVs.
Setting up the TV was straightforward. We had it connected to Wi-Fi and streaming content within 15 minutes. The included enhanced Alexa remote works well for navigating menus and searching for content. Just press the voice button and ask for your favorite show, and it appears almost instantly. This feature saves so much time compared to typing with an on-screen keyboard.
The built-in Fire TV interface gives access to thousands of apps and streaming services. We tested Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video, and each loaded quickly with excellent streaming quality. The TV also supports free live channels through services like Pluto TV. One notable feature is the HDMI eARC port, which allows for easy connection to soundbars and external audio systems—something we recommend since the built-in speakers are adequate but not exceptional.
Connectivity options are plentiful with four HDMI inputs, an Ethernet port, and USB. This makes the Fire TV 50″ a good choice for households with gaming consoles, cable boxes, and other devices. During our testing, switching between inputs was fast and painless. The 60Hz refresh rate handles most content well, though serious gamers might want something faster.
For everyday viewing, this TV strikes an excellent balance between performance and value. The slim bezels give it a premium look, and at just over 20 pounds without the stand, it’s lightweight enough to wall mount easily.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right 48-50 inch TV can be tricky with so many options available. We’ve put together this guide to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Resolution Matters
Resolution affects picture quality and clarity. Most TVs in this size range come in these options:
- 4K (3840 x 2160): Offers four times the detail of Full HD
- 8K (7680 x 4320): Provides even more detail but costs more and has limited content
For most homes, 4K provides excellent picture quality at a reasonable price.
Display Technology
Different display technologies create different viewing experiences:
| Technology | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| LED/LCD | Bright, affordable, good for daytime viewing | Less impressive blacks, limited viewing angles |
| QLED | Vibrant colors, bright picture, good for varied lighting | More expensive than standard LED |
| OLED | Perfect blacks, wide viewing angles, thin design | More expensive, not as bright as LED |
Smart Features
Smart platforms provide access to streaming services and apps. Look for a user-friendly interface that supports the apps you use most often.
Connectivity
Check that the TV has enough ports for your devices:
- HDMI ports: At least 3-4 for game consoles, streaming devices, and sound systems
- USB ports: Useful for media playback or powering streaming sticks
- Audio outputs: For connecting soundbars or speakers
Refresh Rate
A higher refresh rate (120Hz vs 60Hz) means smoother motion, especially important for fast-moving sports or action movies and gaming.
HDR Support
HDR (High Dynamic Range) enhances contrast and color. Look for formats like HDR10, Dolby Vision, or HDR10+ for the best experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shopping for a 48-49-50 inch TV can be confusing with so many options on the market. These common questions address budget considerations, feature recommendations, and display technology differences to help you make an informed decision.
What are the top-rated 48 to 50 inch TVs available for under $1000?
Several excellent TVs fall into this size and price range. The Sony X80K offers superb picture quality with its 4K processor and wide color gamut.
The Samsung Q60B QLED delivers vibrant colors and strong contrast at around $700, making it a popular mid-range option.
For those wanting premium features without breaking the budget, the LG NanoCell 80 series provides good HDR performance and smart TV capabilities for approximately $650-750.
Which 50-inch TV offers the best value for its cost?
The TCL 5-Series Google TV stands out for value, typically priced around $400-450 while offering QLED technology and Dolby Vision support.
Hisense U6H provides exceptional features for its $450-500 price point, including quantum dot color, full array local dimming, and Google TV integration.
The Vizio M-Series Quantum delivers premium picture quality with QLED technology and Dolby Vision at approximately $500, making it one of the best dollar-for-dollar options.
What are the best features to look for in a 48-inch smart TV?
4K resolution is essential for clarity, especially when viewing from closer distances. This provides four times the detail of standard HD TVs.
Look for HDR support (particularly Dolby Vision or HDR10+) to enjoy better contrast and more vibrant colors in compatible content.
A responsive smart platform is crucial. We recommend TVs with Google TV, Roku, or webOS for their intuitive interfaces and extensive app selections.
HDMI 2.1 ports are important for gamers or future-proofing, supporting higher frame rates and advanced gaming features.
What are the advantages of choosing a 50-inch OLED TV over other types?
OLED TVs deliver perfect black levels since each pixel can turn completely off, creating unmatched contrast ratios. This makes dark scenes look more realistic.
Color accuracy on OLED displays tends to be superior, with wider viewing angles that maintain picture quality even when you’re not sitting directly in front.
OLED TVs typically have faster response times (around 0.1ms), eliminating motion blur in fast-moving scenes or games.
They’re also usually thinner and lighter than LED/LCD alternatives, with more elegant designs.
How does a 49-inch TV’s viewing experience differ from a 50-inch model?
The difference is minimal – just one inch diagonally translates to approximately 2% less screen area. Most viewers won’t notice this small size variation during normal viewing.
Viewing distance recommendations remain virtually identical. For optimal viewing, sit approximately 6.5-7 feet away from either size.
The primary difference often comes from brand-specific features rather than size. Some manufacturers only offer certain technologies in specific size variants.
Are there high-quality 50-inch TVs available at a price point below $500?
Yes, several manufacturers offer impressive 50-inch models under $500. The TCL 4-Series and 5-Series provide excellent 4K resolution and smart features starting around $300-400.
Hisense A6 series delivers good picture quality with Dolby Vision support for approximately $350-450, representing excellent value.
The Amazon Fire TV Omni series costs about $400-450 and offers deep integration with Alexa, making it perfect for smart home enthusiasts on a budget.
