Best Affordable TV: Top Picks Under $500 in 2024

TVs have become an essential part of our daily lives. Whether it’s for watching movies, sports, or playing games, a TV is a must-have in every household. With the advancement of technology, TVs have become more affordable, and you don’t have to break the bank to get a good one. In this article, we will be discussing the best affordable TVs in the market.

When it comes to buying an affordable TV, there are a few things you should consider. The first thing to consider is the screen size. You want to make sure that the TV is big enough for your room and that you can see the picture clearly from your seating position. The second thing to consider is the resolution. The higher the resolution, the better the picture quality. The third thing to consider is the type of panel. There are two types of panels: LED and OLED. LED panels are more affordable, while OLED panels offer better picture quality.

After researching and testing several affordable TVs, we have identified the ones that provide the best value for your money. We looked at factors such as picture quality, sound, design, and features. In the next section, we will be discussing our top picks for the best affordable TVs in the market.

Best Affordable TVs

We understand that finding a high-quality TV that won’t break the bank can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks for the best affordable TVs. Our list includes a range of sizes and features, so you’re sure to find the perfect option for your budget and viewing needs. Read on to discover our top picks and see which one is right for you.

INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS-32F201NA23, 2022 Model) 32 inches

If you’re looking for an affordable TV with smart features, then the INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS-32F201NA23, 2022 Model) is a great option.

Pros

• The Alexa Voice Remote makes it easy to control your entertainment with just your voice.
• The Fire TV experience built-in offers access to over 1 million streaming movies and TV episodes.
• Supports Apple AirPlay, making it easy to share videos, photos, music and more from an Apple device to your TV.

Cons

• The 720p resolution might not be suitable for those looking for the highest picture quality.
• The 60 Hz refresh rate might not be suitable for those looking for a TV with a higher refresh rate.
• The TV might not be suitable for those looking for a larger screen size.

We recently purchased the INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS-32F201NA23, 2022 Model) and have been impressed with its performance. The Alexa Voice Remote is a great feature that makes it easy to control your entertainment with just your voice. We were able to easily search across apps, switch inputs, and more using just our voice. We also appreciated the Fire TV experience built-in, which offered access to over 1 million streaming movies and TV episodes. The TV also supports Apple AirPlay, which made it easy to share videos, photos, music and more from our Apple devices to the TV.

While the 720p resolution might not be suitable for those looking for the highest picture quality, we found that it was still good enough for our needs. The 60 Hz refresh rate might also not be suitable for those looking for a TV with a higher refresh rate, but we didn’t notice any issues while watching our favorite shows and movies. The TV might not be suitable for those looking for a larger screen size, but it was perfect for our small living room.

Overall, we would recommend the INSIGNIA 32-inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 720p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS-32F201NA23, 2022 Model) to anyone looking for an affordable TV with smart features.

VIZIO D-Series Full HD Smart TV

If you’re looking for an affordable TV with great features, then the VIZIO D-Series Full HD Smart TV is a great option.

Pros

• The full array backlight provides better contrast and uniformity, resulting in a brilliant 1080p Full HD resolution.
• The ultra-fast VIZIO IQ processor makes navigation and load times faster, getting you to your favorite content faster.
• The V-Gaming Engine optimizes picture mode for gaming, making next-gen console gameplay more responsive with features like Variable Refresh Rate with AMD FreeSync, auto game mode, low-latency gaming, and newly added gaming menu.

Cons

• The TV’s sound quality is not the best, so you may want to consider investing in a soundbar for a better audio experience.
• The SmartCast platform can be a bit slow to load, but once it’s up and running, you can enjoy instant access to a great selection of apps from top-tier streaming services like Netflix, Disney , YouTube, HBO Max, and many more.
• The TV’s design is a bit basic and may not be as stylish as some other models on the market.

We recently got our hands on the VIZIO D-Series Full HD Smart TV and were impressed with its versatility and performance. The full array backlight provides better contrast and uniformity, resulting in a brilliant 1080p Full HD resolution. The ultra-fast VIZIO IQ processor makes navigation and load times faster, getting you to your favorite content faster. We were also impressed with the V-Gaming Engine, which optimizes picture mode for gaming, making next-gen console gameplay more responsive with features like Variable Refresh Rate with AMD FreeSync, auto game mode, low-latency gaming, and newly added gaming menu.

While the TV’s sound quality is not the best, it’s sufficient for everyday use. However, if you’re looking for a better audio experience, we recommend investing in a soundbar. The SmartCast platform can be a bit slow to load, but once it’s up and running, you can enjoy instant access to a great selection of apps from top-tier streaming services like Netflix, Disney , YouTube, HBO Max, and many more. The TV’s design is a bit basic and may not be as stylish as some other models on the market, but it’s still a great option for those on a budget.

Overall, we think the VIZIO D-Series Full HD Smart TV is a great option for those looking for an affordable TV with great features. With its full array backlight, ultra-fast VIZIO IQ processor, and V-Gaming Engine, you can enjoy a brilliant picture and responsive gameplay. Plus, with the SmartCast platform, you can enjoy instant access to a great selection of apps from top-tier streaming services.

INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS-50F301NA24)

We highly recommend the INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote for those looking for an affordable TV with great features.

Pros

• Enjoy breathtaking 4K movies and TV shows at 4 times the resolution of Full HD, and upscale your current content to Ultra HD-level picture quality.
• Alexa voice control allows for hands-free control of the TV, making it easy to switch inputs, control smart home devices, and more.
• Access thousands of shows with Fire TV, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney .

Cons

• Refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize smooth motion in their viewing experience.
• The TV’s built-in speakers may not provide the best audio quality, so investing in a soundbar or external speakers may be necessary for a better audio experience.
• The TV’s dimensions may not be suitable for smaller spaces, as it measures 44.4 inches in width and 27.8 inches in height.

We were impressed with the INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV’s picture quality and Alexa voice control capabilities. The 4K resolution provided stunning visuals, and the Alexa voice control made it easy to navigate the TV without having to fumble with a remote. However, the 60 Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for those who prioritize smooth motion in their viewing experience. Additionally, the TV’s built-in speakers may not provide the best audio quality, so investing in a soundbar or external speakers may be necessary for a better audio experience. Overall, we believe this TV is a great value for its price and features.

Westinghouse Edgeless Roku TV – 43 Inch Smart TV

If you’re looking for an affordable TV that offers a great viewing experience, the Westinghouse Edgeless Roku TV is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The Roku Voice Remote is incredibly convenient and easy to use, allowing you to search for content and perform various tasks with just your voice.
• With its edgeless design, this TV offers an immersive and expansive viewing experience that will make you feel like you’re part of the action.
• The 4K Ultra HD display provides incredible visual detail and picture clarity, making it a great choice for watching movies and other content.

Cons

• While the picture quality is good overall, it’s not quite as impressive as some of the more expensive TVs on the market.
• The sound quality is decent, but it’s not the best. If you’re looking for a truly immersive audio experience, you’ll need to invest in external speakers.
• Although the TV is compatible with Apple Home Kit, Alexa, and Google Assistant, some users have reported difficulty getting these features to work properly.

Overall, we think the Westinghouse Edgeless Roku TV is a great choice for anyone who wants an affordable TV that offers a good balance of features and performance. While it may not be the best option for those who demand the highest picture and sound quality, it’s definitely a solid choice for most people.

TCL 75-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly 75-inch TV, the TCL 75-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV is a great option. With its QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR PRO with Dolby Vision, this TV delivers accurate colors, fine details, and enhanced contrast. Plus, its Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion ensures exceptional motion clarity, making it an excellent choice for gamers.

Pros

• The QLED technology produces brighter images for an enhanced viewing experience.
• The Game Accelerator 120, Auto Game Mode, and AMD Freesync optimize the TV for the lowest latency and more responsive gameplay.
• The Google TV feature allows you to cast directly from a mobile device and offers a range of streaming services.

Cons

• The TV is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to move or mount.
• The sound quality is average, so you may want to invest in a soundbar or external speakers.
• The remote control is not backlit, which can make it difficult to use in low-light situations.

We recently purchased this TV, and we’re impressed with its overall performance. The QLED technology produces brighter images with more accurate colors, making movies and TV shows more enjoyable to watch. We also appreciate the Game Accelerator 120, which optimizes the TV for gaming and provides a more responsive gameplay experience.

One downside to this TV is its weight. At nearly 75 pounds, it can be difficult to move or mount. Additionally, the sound quality is average, so we recommend investing in a soundbar or external speakers for a more immersive audio experience.

Overall, the TCL 75-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly 75-inch TV with impressive picture quality and gaming features.

TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV with Google (50S450G, 2023 Model), Dolby Vision, HDR Pro, Atmos, Assistant Built-in Voice Remote, Works Alexa, Streaming UHD Television 50 inches

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV, the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV with Google is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 4K Ultra HD Resolution provides an incredible level of detail that makes movies and TV shows look amazing.
• The FullView Metal Bezel-less Design gives the TV a modern, sleek look that will fit in perfectly with any home decor.
• The Google TV Smart OS makes it easy to find all of your favorite movies, shows, and live events in one place.

Cons

• The refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which may be a dealbreaker for gamers or those who demand a smoother viewing experience.
• The processor is not the most powerful, which can result in some lag when navigating menus or switching between apps.
• The sound quality is not the best, so you may want to consider investing in a soundbar or external speakers.

Overall, the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV with Google is a solid choice for anyone who wants a high-quality TV without breaking the bank. The combination of 4K resolution, a sleek design, and Google TV make it a great value for the price. However, if you’re a serious gamer or audiophile, you may want to consider other options.

TCL Q Class Smart TV

If you’re looking for an affordable TV with premium features, the TCL Q Class Smart TV is a great option.

Pros

• The QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ provide enhanced contrast and vivid colors, making movies and sports more immersive.
• The Full Array PRO local dimming with up to 200 zones adapts to on-screen content for deep blacks without image blooming, creating a realistic cinematic experience.
• With TCL’s Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode, gameplay is fast and responsive, perfect for competitive gaming.

Cons

• The Google TV interface may not be preferred by some users.
• The TV’s design is not as sleek as other high-end models.
• The sound quality is average and may require additional speakers for a better audio experience.

We recently purchased the TCL Q Class Smart TV and have been impressed with its performance. The QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ provide stunning visuals with enhanced contrast and vivid colors. The Full Array PRO local dimming with over 200 local dimming zones creates deep blacks without image blooming, making movies and sports more immersive.

The TV’s Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode make gameplay fast and responsive, perfect for competitive gaming. However, the Google TV interface may not be preferred by some users and the TV’s design is not as sleek as other high-end models. Additionally, the sound quality is average and may require additional speakers for a better audio experience.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable TV with premium features, the TCL Q Class Smart TV is a great option.

TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that still delivers a great viewing experience, the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV is a solid choice.

Pros

• The 4K Ultra HD resolution provides incredible detail and clarity, making every image pop.
• The Motion Rate 240 with MEMC Frame Insertion ensures smooth, clear motion even during fast-paced action scenes.
• The HDR PRO (Dolby Vision, HDR10, -amp; HLG) enhances contrast, colors, and details for a more immersive viewing experience.

Cons

• The TV’s processor is a bit slow, which can result in lag when navigating menus or switching between apps.
• The sound quality is decent but lacks the depth and richness that some higher-end TVs offer.
• The TV’s built-in speakers aren’t very powerful, so you may need to invest in a soundbar or external speakers for better audio quality.

Overall, we think the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV is a great value for the price. It offers excellent picture quality, a sleek design, and a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to find and stream your favorite content. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment system without breaking the bank.

In terms of setup, we found the TV to be relatively easy to install and configure. The included remote control is intuitive and responsive, and the Google TV Smart OS provides seamless access to all your favorite streaming services and apps. We also appreciated the FullView Metal Bezel-less Design, which gives the TV a sleek, modern look that blends in nicely with any decor.

One potential downside to the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV is its limited connectivity options. With only three HDMI inputs (one with eARC), you may find yourself having to swap out cables frequently if you have multiple devices you want to connect. That being said, we didn’t find this to be a major issue during our testing.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV to anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality TV that delivers an excellent viewing experience. With its advanced features, sleek design, and user-friendly interface, it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to upgrade their home entertainment system without breaking the bank.

INSIGNIA 24-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote

If you’re looking for an affordable TV that offers great features, then the INSIGNIA 24-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote is a fantastic option.

Pros

• The 1080p resolution provides high-quality visuals, making it perfect for watching movies, shows, and games in high definition.
• The Alexa Voice Remote makes it easy to control your entertainment, search across apps, switch inputs, and more using just your voice.
• The built-in Fire TV experience offers access to over 1 million streaming movies and TV episodes, tens of thousands of channels, apps, and Alexa skills.

Cons

• The TV’s small size may not be suitable for larger rooms or for people who prefer bigger screens.
• The sound quality may not be as good as some other TVs, especially if you don’t have a compatible soundbar or AV receiver.
• The TV may not be ideal for people who prefer to watch content on cable or other non-streaming sources.

Overall, we highly recommend the INSIGNIA 24-inch Class F20 Series Smart Full HD 1080p Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote for anyone who wants an affordable, high-quality TV with great features. Whether you’re looking to watch your favorite movies, shows, or games in high definition or want to take advantage of the Alexa Voice Remote and built-in Fire TV experience, this TV has everything you need.

Roku 32″ Select Series 720p HD Smart RokuTV with Voice Remote, Bright Picture, Customizable Home Screen, and Free TV

If you’re looking for a basic yet affordable smart TV, the Roku 32″ Select Series 720p HD Smart RokuTV is worth considering.

Pros

• Made by Roku, a trusted brand in streaming technology
• Bright and clear picture quality with exceptional clarity and stunning brightness
• Customizable home screen that puts your favorite TV streaming apps, inputs, and free live TV front and center

Cons

• Only 720p resolution, which may not be as sharp as higher-end TVs
• Limited refresh rate of 60Hz
• Voice remote may not be as responsive as other remotes on the market

We recently purchased this TV for our guest bedroom and have been satisfied with its performance. The picture quality is bright and clear, making it easy to enjoy movies, shows, and games. We also appreciate the customizable home screen, which allows us to quickly access our favorite streaming apps without having to scroll through menus.

However, we did notice that the 720p resolution may not be as sharp as higher-end TVs, and the refresh rate of 60Hz may not be ideal for fast-paced action scenes. Additionally, while the voice remote is a nice touch, it may not be as responsive as other remotes on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable smart TV that gets the job done, the Roku 32″ Select Series 720p HD Smart RokuTV is a solid choice. Plus, with 400 live TV streaming apps and free entertainment options, there’s plenty of content to keep you entertained.

Buying Guide

When looking for an affordable TV, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some features to keep in mind when making your purchase:

Screen Size

The screen size of a TV is one of the most important factors to consider. You want to choose a size that fits comfortably in your space and provides an enjoyable viewing experience. Consider the distance between your TV and seating area, as well as the size of the room. A larger screen size may be better for a larger room, while a smaller screen size may be sufficient for a smaller space.

Resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen and is an important factor in determining picture quality. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more detailed the image will be. Look for a TV with at least 1080p resolution, but if you can afford it, consider a 4K TV for even better picture quality.

Connectivity

Make sure the TV you choose has the necessary ports and connectivity options to meet your needs. Look for a TV with HDMI ports for connecting other devices, such as a gaming console or streaming device. Additionally, consider whether you want a TV with built-in Wi-Fi for easy access to streaming services.

Audio Quality

While the picture quality is important, don’t overlook the audio quality. Look for a TV with built-in speakers that provide clear and balanced sound. If you want a more immersive audio experience, consider purchasing a soundbar or other external speakers.

Price

Finally, consider your budget when choosing an affordable TV. Look for sales or discounts to get the best deal possible. Keep in mind that while a lower-priced TV may be more budget-friendly, it may not have all the features you want. Strike a balance between price and features to get the best value for your money.

By considering these factors, you can choose an affordable TV that meets your needs and provides an enjoyable viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top features to look for in an affordable TV?

When looking for an affordable TV, it’s important to consider the features that matter most to you. Some key features to look for include screen size, resolution, refresh rate, and connectivity options. You may also want to consider smart TV features, such as built-in streaming apps and voice control.

How do I choose the best TV under $500?

When shopping for a TV under $500, it’s important to balance price with quality. Look for a TV with a good balance of features and performance, such as a 1080p or 4K resolution, a decent refresh rate, and a variety of connectivity options. You may also want to consider the brand reputation and customer reviews before making a purchase.

Which brands offer the best value for budget smart TVs?

There are several brands that offer great value for budget smart TVs, including TCL, Hisense, and Vizio. These brands offer a range of affordable smart TVs with a variety of features, including built-in streaming apps and voice control.

What are the best budget-friendly 55-inch TVs currently available?

Some of the best budget-friendly 55-inch TVs currently available include the TCL 55S425, the Hisense 55H8F, and the Vizio M558-G1. These TVs offer a good balance of features and performance at an affordable price point.

How do smart TV features vary across different budget models?

Smart TV features can vary widely across different budget models. Some budget smart TVs may offer only basic streaming apps, while others may offer more advanced features such as voice control and built-in Chromecast. It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a budget smart TV.

What should I consider when looking for a high-quality budget 4K TV?

When looking for a high-quality budget 4K TV, consider factors such as screen size, resolution, refresh rate, and HDR support. You may also want to consider the brand reputation and customer reviews, as well as the availability of advanced features such as voice control and built-in streaming apps.