Best Cheap TV for Gaming: Top Picks Under $500 in 2024

Gaming is a popular pastime enjoyed by millions of people around the world. While many gamers prefer to play on a PC or console, there are those who prefer to play on a TV. However, finding the right TV for gaming can be a challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget.

When it comes to buying a TV for gaming, there are a few things you need to consider. First and foremost, you want a TV that has a low input lag. Input lag is the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the action on the screen. A high input lag can make games feel sluggish and unresponsive, which can be frustrating, especially in fast-paced games.

Another important factor to consider is the TV’s refresh rate. The refresh rate is the number of times per second that the TV updates the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate can make games look smoother and more fluid, which can enhance the overall gaming experience.

Finally, you want to consider the TV’s resolution. While 4K TVs are becoming more affordable, they can still be quite expensive. However, a 1080p TV can still provide a great gaming experience, especially if you’re on a budget.

After researching and testing several TVs, we’ve determined that the best cheap TV for gaming is the TCL 4-Series. It has a low input lag, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a 1080p resolution, all at an affordable price point. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the TCL 4-Series and why it’s the best choice for budget-conscious gamers.

Best Cheap TVs for Gaming

We know that finding the perfect TV for gaming can be a daunting task, especially if you’re on a tight budget. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best cheap TVs for gaming on the market. Our list includes TVs that offer excellent picture quality, low input lag, and smooth motion handling, all at an affordable price. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious competitor, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor 1080p 98% sRGB HDMI x2 VGA Build-in Speakers, Machine Black

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly gaming monitor, the Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Anti-Flicker technology for a crisper picture
• Multiple ports for video and audio input
• 75Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming experience

Cons

• Limited adjustability options
• Built-in speakers aren’t very loud
• No USB ports

This monitor has a curved display with a 1800R screen curvature, which provides a more immersive gaming experience. The 75Hz refresh rate ensures that frames transition instantly, leaving behind no blurred images. The anti-flicker technology prevents the backlight from flickering periodically, resulting in a crisper picture.

With multiple ports for video and audio input, including HDMI and VGA, you can connect to your gaming console or PC with ease. The monitor also has a tilt feature that allows you to adjust the angle of the screen for optimal viewing.

One downside of this monitor is its limited adjustability options. While it has a tilt feature, it cannot be swiveled or adjusted for height. Additionally, the built-in speakers aren’t very loud, so you may want to invest in external speakers for a better audio experience.

Overall, the Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor is an excellent choice for gamers on a budget. Its high refresh rate and anti-flicker technology make for a smooth gaming experience, and its multiple input options make it easy to connect to your gaming console or PC.

Sceptre IPS 22 inch 1080p Gaming Monitor

If you’re looking for an affordable gaming monitor, the Sceptre IPS 22 inch 1080p Gaming Monitor is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The IPS panel delivers excellent color performance and sharp visibility from multiple viewing angles.
• With a 75Hz refresh rate, images change faster and smoother than the standard, reducing screen tearing.
• Remarkably vivid colors illuminate the screen like never before with 320 cd/m² brightness.

Cons

• The built-in speakers deliver robust and smooth audio, but the sound quality is not the best.
• The monitor’s glossy screen surface can be prone to glare in bright environments.
• The monitor’s stand only allows for tilt adjustment, so it may not be the most ergonomic option.

This monitor is a great budget-friendly option for gamers who want a high-quality display without breaking the bank. The IPS panel technology delivers excellent color accuracy and consistency, making it a great choice for gaming, streaming, and other multimedia activities. Additionally, the 75Hz refresh rate provides a smoother gaming experience with less screen tearing.

The monitor’s 320 cd/m² brightness is impressive and helps to create a vibrant and engaging visual experience. The built-in speakers are a nice touch, but they are not the best quality, so you may want to consider using external speakers or headphones for a better audio experience. The glossy screen surface can be prone to glare in bright environments, but this is a minor issue that can be resolved by adjusting the lighting in your room or using a monitor hood.

Overall, the Sceptre IPS 22 inch 1080p Gaming Monitor is a great choice for gamers who want a high-quality display without spending a lot of money. It’s not the most ergonomic option out there, but it delivers excellent performance and image quality for the price.

Sceptre 22 inch 75Hz 1080P LED Monitor

If you’re looking for an affordable gaming TV, the Sceptre E225W-19203R monitor is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 1080P resolution provides stunning color and picture detail on a 22-inch screen.
• The 3-millisecond response time displays action sequences with the highest degree of clarity.
• The monitor features 2 HDMI and VGA inputs to connect all video and gaming devices.

Cons

• The built-in speakers are not of the highest quality.
• The monitor’s tilt range is limited to 15° backward and 5° forward.
• The glossy screen surface may cause glare in certain lighting conditions.

We’ve been using the Sceptre E225W-19203R monitor for a while now and it has definitely exceeded our expectations. The picture quality is impressive, with vibrant colors and sharp details. The 1080P resolution is perfect for gaming, and the 3-millisecond response time ensures that you won’t experience any lag or ghosting during fast-paced action sequences.

The monitor’s slim, contemporary design also makes it a great addition to any gaming setup. The frameless bezel and thin chassis give it a sleek, modern look that will complement any decor. Plus, it’s VESA wall mount ready, so you can easily mount it on the wall to save desk space.

One thing to keep in mind is that the built-in speakers are not of the highest quality. They’re fine for basic use, but if you’re looking for a more immersive gaming experience, you’ll definitely want to invest in some external speakers or headphones.

Overall, we highly recommend the Sceptre E225W-19203R monitor for anyone looking for an affordable gaming TV. It’s a great value for the price, with impressive picture quality and a sleek, modern design.

Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV for gaming, the Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The 4K UltraHD resolution and full array LED backlight deliver a sharp and colorful picture.
• The Roku TV operating system allows easy access to thousands of streaming channels and apps.
• The Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 provide amazing realism for an immersive gaming experience.

Cons

• The sound quality lacks low-end and dialogue in shows can sound a little flat.
• The TV may feel cheap due to its size and price point.
• The remote control does not come with voice control.

We were impressed with the picture quality of the Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV. The 4K UltraHD resolution and full array LED backlight create a sharp and colorful picture that enhances the gaming experience. The Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 provide amazing realism that makes you feel like you’re in the game.

The Roku TV operating system allows easy access to thousands of streaming channels and apps, making it easier to watch your favorite shows and movies. You can quickly access entertainment and control your TV with a Google Assistant or Alexa device, or a simple voice command.

However, the sound quality of the TV leaves something to be desired. It lacks low-end and dialogue in shows can sound a little flat. Additionally, the TV may feel cheap due to its size and price point. Finally, the remote control does not come with voice control.

Overall, the Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV is a great budget-friendly option for gamers. Its picture quality and Roku TV operating system make it a great choice for those looking for a TV for gaming.

Hisense 70-Inch Class A6 Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly TV that can handle gaming, the Hisense 70-Inch Class A6 Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV is worth considering.

Pros

• The 4K Ultra High Definition produces a clear and realistic picture, and the AI UHD Upscaler enhances non-4K content.
• Google TV organizes movies, shows, and live TV across your apps and subscriptions, making it easy to discover new content.
• Game Mode Plus, with a 60Hz panel, variable refresh rate, and auto low latency mode, creates a dynamic gaming experience.

Cons

• The shimmering effect when viewing at an angle can be distracting.
• The standard Google TV OS may not be as feature-rich as other smart TV interfaces.
• The sound quality may not be as impressive as the picture quality.

Overall, we think the Hisense 70-Inch Class A6 Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV is a solid choice for gamers on a budget. The 4K resolution, AI upscaling, and Game Mode Plus make for an immersive gaming experience. The Google TV interface is convenient for organizing your streaming content, but the sound quality may not be as impressive as the picture quality. If you’re looking for a large, budget-friendly TV for gaming, this one is definitely worth considering.

TCL 85-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV with Google TV

We highly recommend the TCL 85-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV with Google TV for gamers looking for an affordable yet high-quality TV.

Pros

• The QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR PRO with Dolby Vision enhance contrast, provide accurate colors, and fine details utilizing the most advanced HDR formats.
• With Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion, this TV ensures exceptional motion clarity, making it perfect for fast-paced games.
• The Game Accelerator 120 and Auto Game Mode automatically optimize the TV for the lowest latency and more responsive gameplay without lag.

Cons

• The TV’s size may be too big for some rooms, making it difficult to fit in small spaces.
• The TV’s remote control may be difficult to use for some people due to its small size and limited buttons.
• The TV’s built-in speakers may not be powerful enough for some users who prefer a more immersive audio experience.

The TCL 85-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV with Google TV is an excellent choice for gamers who want a large, high-quality TV that won’t break the bank. With its QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR PRO with Dolby Vision, this TV produces accurate colors and fine details, making games look more vibrant and realistic. Additionally, the TV’s Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion ensures exceptional motion clarity, making it perfect for fast-paced games that require quick reflexes.

One of the standout features of this TV is its Game Accelerator 120 and Auto Game Mode, which automatically optimize the TV for the lowest latency and more responsive gameplay without lag. This feature is especially useful for competitive gamers who want to stay at the top of their leaderboards.

However, the TV’s size may be a downside for some users, as it may be too big for some rooms. Additionally, the TV’s remote control may be difficult to use for some people due to its small size and limited buttons. Lastly, the TV’s built-in speakers may not be powerful enough for some users who prefer a more immersive audio experience.

Overall, the TCL 85-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV with Google TV is an excellent choice for gamers who want an affordable yet high-quality TV that can enhance their gaming experience.

TCL Q7 QLED 65-Inch 4K Smart TV

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that can deliver an immersive gaming experience, the TCL Q7 QLED 65-Inch 4K Smart TV is worth considering.

Pros

• The QLED technology and HDR Ultra with Dolby Vision IQ provide enhanced contrast and vivid colors for an immersive cinematic experience.
• The Full Array PRO local dimming with over 200 local dimming zones ensures deep blacks without image blooming.
• The Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode provide fast gameplay without lag.

Cons

• The Google TV interface may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The TV’s design is a bit plain and unremarkable.
• The sound quality is average and may require external speakers for a better audio experience.

In our experience, the TCL Q7 QLED 65-Inch 4K Smart TV delivers a great gaming experience with its native 120Hz refresh rate, Motion Rate 480, and Game Accelerator 240. The QLED technology and HDR Ultra with Dolby Vision IQ provide stunning visuals, while the Full Array PRO local dimming ensures deep blacks without image blooming.

While the Google TV interface may not be everyone’s favorite, it does provide access to a wide range of apps and streaming services. However, the TV’s design is a bit plain and unremarkable, and the sound quality is average at best.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that can deliver an immersive gaming experience, the TCL Q7 QLED 65-Inch 4K Smart TV is definitely worth considering.

Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor 1080p R1500 98% sRGB HDMI x2 VGA Build-in Speakers, VESA Wall Mount Machine Black (C248W-1920RN Series)

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly gaming monitor, the Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The curved screen provides an immersive gaming experience, making it feel like you’re part of the game.
• The high refresh rate of 75Hz ensures smooth and fluid gameplay.
• The metal pattern brush finish gives the monitor a sleek and contemporary look.

Cons

• The built-in speakers are not very powerful and lack bass.
• The stand is not adjustable, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
• The monitor’s colors may appear washed out and need to be calibrated for optimal picture quality.

We were impressed by the Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor’s sleek design and immersive gaming experience. The 1800R screen curvature really made us feel like we were part of the game, and the high refresh rate ensured smooth and fluid gameplay.

However, the built-in speakers lacked bass and were not very powerful, so we recommend using external speakers or headphones for a better audio experience. Additionally, the stand is not adjustable, which may be uncomfortable for some users.

Overall, the Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor is a great budget option for gamers who want an immersive gaming experience without breaking the bank. Just make sure to calibrate the colors for optimal picture quality and consider using external speakers or headphones for better audio.

LG C3 Series 42-Inch Class OLED evo 4K Processor Smart TV for Gaming with Magic Remote AI-Powered OLED42C3PUA, 2023 with Alexa Built-in 42 inch TV Only

If you’re looking for the ultimate gaming experience with a TV that blends seamlessly into your space, the LG C3 Series 42-Inch Class OLED evo 4K Processor Smart TV is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The LG OLED evo C3 is powered by the next-gen a9 AI Processor Gen6 for ultra-realistic picture and sound.
• The almost invisible bezel blends the LG OLED evo C3 into your space for a seamless look.
• Packed with gaming features, the LG OLED evo C-Series comes with everything you need to win.

Cons

• The LG C3 Series 42-Inch Class OLED evo 4K Processor Smart TV is a bit more expensive compared to other cheap TVs for gaming.
• The TV is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to move around.
• The AI-assisted deep learning may take some time to get used to.

We were impressed with the LG C3 Series 42-Inch Class OLED evo 4K Processor Smart TV’s performance and picture quality. The LG OLED evo C3 is powered by the next-gen a9 AI Processor Gen6—made exclusively for LG OLED—for beautiful picture and performance. The Brightness Booster improves brightness so you get luminous picture and high contrast, even in well-lit rooms. AI-assisted deep learning analyzes what you’re watching to choose the best picture and sound setting for your content.

The ULTRA SLIM DESIGN of the LG OLED evo C3 blends into the background with an almost invisible bezel for a seamless look. When you’re finished watching, display paintings, photos and other content to blend the LG OLED evo C3 into your space even more.

Packed with gaming features, the LG OLED evo C-Series comes with everything you need to win like a 0.1ms response time, native 120Hz refresh rate and four HDMI 2.1 inputs. All LG OLED TVs have NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium and VRR to further improve gaming quality. The LG Game Dashboard and Game Optimizer put all the control at your fingertips.

Overall, the LG C3 Series 42-Inch Class OLED evo 4K Processor Smart TV is a great choice for gamers who want a TV that looks great and performs even better.

TCL 55-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV with Google (55Q650G, 2023 Model) Dolby Vision, Atmos, HDR Pro , Game Accelerator Enhanced Gaming, Voice Remote, Works Alexa, Streaming UHD Television 55 inches

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV for gaming, the TCL 55-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV is a great choice. We’ve tested it out and here’s what we found:

Pros

• The QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR PRO with Dolby Vision provide accurate colors and fine details, making the viewing experience breathtaking and vibrant.
• With Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion, the TCL QLED TV ensures exceptional motion clarity, making it perfect for fast-paced games.
• The Game Accelerator 120, Auto Game Mode and AMD Freesync automatically optimizes for the lowest latency for a more responsive gameplay without lag, designed to keep you at the top of any leaderboard.

Cons

• The TV stand is not adjustable, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• The remote control is not backlit, which can make it difficult to use in low light conditions.
• The TV speakers are not the best quality, so you may need to invest in external speakers for a better sound experience.

Overall, the TCL 55-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV is a great budget-friendly option for gamers who want a high-quality viewing experience without breaking the bank. The QLED Quantum Dot technology and HDR PRO with Dolby Vision provide accurate colors and fine details, making the viewing experience breathtaking and vibrant. With Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion, the TCL QLED TV ensures exceptional motion clarity, making it perfect for fast-paced games. Additionally, the Game Accelerator 120, Auto Game Mode and AMD Freesync automatically optimizes for the lowest latency for a more responsive gameplay without lag, designed to keep you at the top of any leaderboard. However, the TV stand is not adjustable, which may be inconvenient for some users, and the remote control is not backlit, which can make it difficult to use in low light conditions. Additionally, the TV speakers are not the best quality, so you may need to invest in external speakers for a better sound experience. If you’re willing to overlook these minor drawbacks, the TCL 55-Inch Q6 QLED 4K Smart TV is a great option for gamers on a budget.