Best TV for Under $500: Top Picks for Quality and Affordability in 2024

Finding the perfect TV can be a daunting task, especially if you’re on a budget. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of technical jargon and features. But fear not, we’ve done the research for you and have compiled a list of the best TVs for under $500.

When it comes to TVs under $500, you can expect to find a range of sizes and features. While you may not get the latest and greatest technology or the largest screen size, you can still find a TV that offers a great viewing experience without breaking the bank.

One critical thing to consider when purchasing a TV is the screen size. You want to make sure the TV is the right size for your space and viewing needs. A TV that’s too small can strain your eyes, while a TV that’s too big can be overwhelming and take up too much space. Another important factor to consider is the resolution. While 4K TVs offer the best picture quality, they can be expensive. However, you can still find 1080p TVs that offer excellent picture quality at a more affordable price.

We spent hours researching and testing various TVs to identify the ones that offer the best value for under $500. So, whether you’re looking for a TV for your living room, bedroom, or office, we’ve got you covered.

Best TVs Under $500

We understand that finding a high-quality TV that fits your budget can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of the best TVs under $500 to help you make an informed decision. Our team has thoroughly researched and tested each product to ensure that they offer exceptional performance, stunning visuals, and user-friendly features. So, whether you’re looking for a TV for your living room, bedroom, or office, you can trust our recommendations to deliver the best viewing experience without breaking the bank.

SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class Crystal UHD TU8300 Series – 4K UHD Curved Smart TV With Alexa Built-in (UN55TU8300FXZA) 55-Inch TV Only

If you’re looking for a TV that offers a stunning 4K viewing experience with a unique curved screen design, the SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class Crystal UHD TU8300 Series Smart TV is worth considering.

Pros

• The curved screen design provides an immersive viewing experience that draws you in and enhances the overall picture quality.
• The 4K UHD resolution offers crisp and clear picture quality, with four times the resolution of Full HD.
• The TV has a smart guide that makes it easy to find your favorite shows and movies.

Cons

• The TV’s 60Hz refresh rate may not be suitable for sports or action-packed movies with fast-moving scenes.
• The TV’s built-in speakers may not deliver the best audio quality, so you may need to invest in a separate sound system.
• The TV’s remote control may not be as user-friendly as some other models on the market.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class Crystal UHD TU8300 Series Smart TV, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The curved screen design really adds to the viewing experience, making it feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. The 4K UHD resolution offers stunning picture quality, with vibrant colors and sharp details.

One thing to note is that the TV’s 60Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for sports or action-packed movies with fast-moving scenes. We also found that the TV’s built-in speakers may not deliver the best audio quality, so you may want to invest in a separate sound system for a more immersive experience.

Overall, if you’re looking for a TV that offers a unique design and stunning picture quality, the SAMSUNG 55-Inch Class Crystal UHD TU8300 Series Smart TV is definitely worth considering. With its smart guide and Alexa built-in, it’s also a convenient choice for those who want easy access to their favorite shows and movies.

SAMSUNG 40-inch Class LED Smart FHD TV 1080P

If you’re looking for a high-quality TV that won’t break the bank, the SAMSUNG 40-inch Class LED Smart FHD TV 1080P is a great choice. With its Full HD resolution and support for the Samsung SmartThings app, this TV is perfect for streaming your favorite shows, movies, and music.

Pros

• The Full HD 1080p resolution delivers vibrant picture quality, making your viewing experience more immersive.
• The Samsung Smart TV allows you to easily stream your favorite content from popular services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
• The SmartThings app support lets you control your home automation devices directly from your TV, making it easy to manage your smart home.

Cons

• The refresh rate of 60Hz may not be ideal for fast-paced action scenes or sports.
• The TV does not have a built-in Chromecast or AirPlay support, which may be a downside for some users.
• The sound quality may not be as good as other TVs in this price range, so you may want to consider investing in a soundbar or speakers.

Overall, the SAMSUNG 40-inch Class LED Smart FHD TV 1080P is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality TV that won’t break the bank. With its Full HD resolution, Smart TV features, and support for the SmartThings app, this TV is perfect for streaming your favorite content and managing your smart home.

SAMSUNG 86-Inch Class Crystal 4K UHD LED TU9010 Series HDR, AMD FreeSync, Borderless Design, Multi View Screen, Smart TV with Alexa Built-In (UN86TU9010FXZA, 2021 Model) 86-Inch TV Only

If you’re looking for an immersive viewing experience, the SAMSUNG 86-Inch Class Crystal 4K UHD LED TU9010 Series is a great choice.

Pros

• The crystal processor 4K transforms everything you watch into stunning 4K.
• The motion rate 240 minimizes motion blur on screen, making action-packed movies and sports stay smooth and crisp.
• The real game enhancer plus is engineered to make the TV and the console work seamlessly together to reduce lag, tearing, and stuttering.

Cons

• At 86 inches, this TV may be too large for some spaces.
• The built-in speakers may not provide the best sound quality.
• The TV is on the heavier side, weighing in at 93 pounds.

We were blown away by the crystal clear colors and fine-tuned picture of the SAMSUNG 86-Inch Class Crystal 4K UHD LED TU9010 Series. The Universal Guide made it easy to find and select content, and the TV automatically upscaled everything we watched into 4K for stunningly vivid color and detail.

The motion rate 240 minimized motion blur on screen, making action-packed movies and sports stay smooth and crisp. We were also impressed by the real game enhancer plus, which made gaming a seamless experience with reduced lag, tearing, and stuttering.

However, at 86 inches, this TV may be too large for some spaces. Additionally, the built-in speakers may not provide the best sound quality, so we recommend investing in external speakers for a better audio experience. Finally, the TV is on the heavier side, weighing in at 93 pounds, so it may be difficult to move or mount on your own.

Overall, if you’re looking for a large, immersive viewing experience with stunning 4K picture quality, the SAMSUNG 86-Inch Class Crystal 4K UHD LED TU9010 Series is a great choice.

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

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV with 4K Ultra HD resolution and a smart Roku TV operating system, the Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV is a great option.

Pros

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

Cons

• The sound quality is average and may require external speakers for an optimal audio experience.
• The refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which may not be suitable for high-speed gaming.
• The TV is relatively heavy at 36.4 pounds, which may require assistance for installation.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV, and we were impressed with its features and performance. The 4K UltraHD resolution and full array LED backlighting produced a sharp, colorful picture that made movies and TV shows come to life. The Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 image technology provided amazing realism, making it feel like we were in the middle of the action.

The Roku TV operating system was easy to use and provided access to thousands of streaming channels and apps, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. We were able to quickly find our favorite shows and movies, and the TV’s voice control feature made it even easier to navigate. However, we did notice that the sound quality was average and may require external speakers for an optimal audio experience.

The Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly TV with smart features. However, the refresh rate is only 60 Hz, which may not be suitable for high-speed gaming. Additionally, the TV is relatively heavy at 36.4 pounds, which may require assistance for installation.

Overall, we would recommend the Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV for those looking for a budget-friendly TV with smart features and great picture quality.

Supersonic SC-1311 13.3-Inch 1080p LED Widescreen HDTV with HDMI Input (AC/DC Compatible) 13 in

If you’re looking for a small TV for your bedroom or RV, the Supersonic SC-1311 is a great option that won’t break the bank.

Pros

• The 13-inch size is perfect for small spaces or under-cabinet setups.
• Designed for 12-volt systems, it’s perfect for your RV or camper.
• With HDMI, USB, and AC ports, this TV offers seamless connectivity to your devices.

Cons

• The sound quality is not the best, so you may want to invest in external speakers.
• The picture quality is good, but not as sharp as larger and more expensive sets.
• The remote control is small and can be difficult to use.

We recently purchased the Supersonic SC-1311 for our RV and have been happy with our purchase. The 13-inch size is perfect for our small space, and the fact that it’s designed for 12-volt systems means we can easily use it on the road. We’ve connected it to our Firestick and gaming console with ease, and the picture quality is good for the price.

While the sound quality is not the best, we expected this from a small TV and have invested in external speakers. The remote control is small and can be difficult to use, but we’ve gotten used to it over time. Overall, we would recommend the Supersonic SC-1311 for anyone looking for a small TV on a budget.

Hisense 50-Inch Class U6HF Series ULED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV

If you’re looking for a feature-packed TV with stunning picture quality, the Hisense 50-Inch Class U6HF Series ULED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The Quantum Dot Wide Color Gamut produces purer, richer, and more accurate colors than a regular LED TV, creating over a billion color combinations that bring vibrant images to life.
• The Fire TV built-in allows you to enjoy a world of entertainment from apps like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney plus, Hulu, and HBO Max, and stream for free with Freevee, Pluto TV, Tubi, and more.
• The Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10, and HDR10 plus transform your TV into an entertainment powerhouse, providing amazing realism that you’ll experience like never before.

Cons

• The TV’s sound quality is average, and you may need to purchase external speakers to enhance your viewing experience.
• The TV’s remote control is not backlit, which can make it difficult to use in dimly lit rooms.
• The TV’s interface can be a bit slow and unresponsive at times, which can be frustrating.

We recently purchased the Hisense 50-Inch Class U6HF Series ULED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV, and we’ve been blown away by its stunning picture quality and feature-packed design. The Quantum Dot Wide Color Gamut produces purer, richer, and more accurate colors than a regular LED TV, creating over a billion color combinations that bring vibrant images to life. We were also impressed with the Fire TV built-in, which allowed us to enjoy a world of entertainment from apps like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney plus, Hulu, and HBO Max, and stream for free with Freevee, Pluto TV, Tubi, and more.

The Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10, and HDR10 plus transformed our TV into an entertainment powerhouse, providing amazing realism that we experienced like never before. However, the TV’s sound quality is average, and we needed to purchase external speakers to enhance our viewing experience. Additionally, the TV’s remote control is not backlit, which made it difficult to use in dimly lit rooms. We also found that the TV’s interface can be a bit slow and unresponsive at times, which can be frustrating. Overall, we highly recommend the Hisense 50-Inch Class U6HF Series ULED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV for anyone looking for a feature-packed TV with stunning picture quality.

TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV

If you’re looking for an affordable TV that offers impressive features, the TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV is a great option.

Pros

• Enjoy stunning high-definition picture quality with 1080P full HD resolution.
• Experience enhanced contrast, accurate colors, and fine details with HDR (HDR10 -amp; HLG).
• Connect your favorite Bluetooth headphones for a private listening experience.

Cons

• The sound quality may not be as impressive as some other TVs in this price range.
• Some users may find the navigation and setup process a bit confusing.
• The TV’s 60 Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for fast-paced action scenes.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV, and we were impressed with its features and picture quality. The 1080P full HD resolution provides stunning clarity and detail, making it perfect for watching your favorite movies and TV shows.

We were also impressed with the TV’s HDR capabilities, which offer enhanced contrast and accurate colors. This feature really makes a difference when watching content with a lot of dark or bright scenes. Additionally, the TV’s Bluetooth Personal Audio feature allows you to connect your favorite headphones for a private listening experience.

While the TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV offers impressive features, there are a few downsides to consider. Some users may find the sound quality to be lacking compared to other TVs in this price range. Additionally, the navigation and setup process may be a bit confusing for some users, so it may take some time to get everything set up correctly.

Finally, the TV’s 60 Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for fast-paced action scenes, as some users may notice a bit of motion blur. However, for the price, the TCL 32-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Google TV is a great option that offers impressive features and picture quality.

Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV with Dolby Vision, hands-free with Alexa 65-inch TV only

If you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable TV that’s packed with features, the Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV with Dolby Vision is definitely worth considering. With support for 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus, this TV delivers true-to-life picture quality and brilliant colors that will make your movies and TV shows look better than ever. Plus, with built-in microphones and Alexa, you can control the TV hands-free, so you can find and launch content without ever having to pick up the remote.

Pros

• Amazing picture quality with support for 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus
• Hands-free TV with Alexa lets you control the TV with your voice
• Stream over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes, including favorites like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney

Cons

• Alexa can be finicky at times and may not always understand your commands
• Some users have reported issues with the TV freezing or crashing
• The TV can be difficult to set up and may require some troubleshooting

We recently had the chance to test out the Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV with Dolby Vision, and we were blown away by the picture quality. Whether we were streaming movies or watching TV shows, the colors were rich and vibrant, and the contrast was spot-on. Plus, with support for Dolby Vision and HDR 10, the TV delivered stunning brightness and clarity that made every scene look like it was popping off the screen.

One of the best things about this TV is the hands-free Alexa integration. With built-in microphones, we were able to control the TV with our voice, which made it easy to find and launch content without ever having to pick up the remote. We also appreciated the fact that the TV comes with a 6-month subscription to MGM , which gave us access to thousands of Hollywood movies and original series.

Of course, no product is perfect, and there were a few downsides to the Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV with Dolby Vision. For one thing, Alexa can be finicky at times and may not always understand your commands. We also experienced some issues with the TV freezing or crashing, which was frustrating. Finally, we found that the TV can be difficult to set up and may require some troubleshooting, especially if you’re not familiar with the Fire TV operating system.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV with Dolby Vision to anyone who is looking for an affordable, high-quality TV that’s packed with features. With its amazing picture quality, hands-free Alexa integration, and access to millions of movies and TV shows, this TV is a great choice for anyone who loves to watch their favorite content in style.

Vizio 40-inch Class FHD LED Smart TV D-Series D40f-J (39.5-inch Diagonal) (Renewed)

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that delivers a high-quality picture, the Vizio 40-inch Class FHD LED Smart TV D-Series D40f-J is worth considering.

Pros

• The full array LED backlight ensures exceptional light uniformity and color consistency, resulting in a more responsive picture from edge to edge.
• The IQ Picture Processor delivers superior picture processing, faster navigation, and quicker load times to get to your favorite content faster.
• SmartCast offers a lightning-fast interface and intuitive navigation, giving you instant access to the best selection of apps from top-tier streaming services.

Cons

• The TV’s sound quality could be better, especially when watching movies or TV shows with a lot of dialogue.
• The TV’s 1080p resolution is not as high as some of the more expensive models on the market.
• The TV does not come with a lot of built-in storage, so you may need to invest in additional storage if you plan to download a lot of apps or games.

We recently tried out the Vizio 40-inch Class FHD LED Smart TV D-Series D40f-J and were impressed by its picture quality and ease of use. The full array LED backlight ensures that the picture is bright and clear, no matter where you’re sitting in the room. The IQ Picture Processor also makes it easy to navigate between different apps and streaming services, so you can quickly find the content you’re looking for.

One downside to this TV is its sound quality. While the TV’s speakers are adequate for watching TV shows or movies, they may not be sufficient for more immersive experiences like gaming or watching action movies. Additionally, the TV’s 1080p resolution is not as high as some of the more expensive models on the market, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that delivers a high-quality picture and is easy to use, the Vizio 40-inch Class FHD LED Smart TV D-Series D40f-J is a solid choice. Plus, with its Amazon Renewed certification, you can be confident that you’re getting a product that has been professionally inspected and tested to work and look like new.

Bose Smart Soundbar 600

If you’re looking for a soundbar that delivers immersive sound for all your movies, TV shows, and music, then the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The Dolby Atmos soundbar with proprietary TrueSpace technology and two upward firing transducers delivers shockingly immersive sound for all your entertainment needs.
• Bose TrueSpace technology intelligently analyzes signals other than Dolby Atmos, like stereo or 5.1, and upmixes them to create an immersive multi-channel sound experience.
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Chromecast built-in compatibility let you stream content anyway you want.

Cons

• The small, 27.5” wide soundbar may not be suitable for larger rooms.
• The included remote control may not be as user-friendly as expected.
• The soundbar may not be compatible with all TV models.

We’ve been using the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 for a while now and we’re impressed with its sound quality. The Dolby Atmos soundbar with proprietary TrueSpace technology and two upward firing transducers delivers shockingly immersive sound for all your movies, TV shows, and music. We were able to hear instruments, dialogue, and effects separated and placed throughout the room, including overhead.

We also love the fact that Bose TrueSpace technology intelligently analyzes signals other than Dolby Atmos, like stereo or 5.1, and upmixes them to create an immersive multi-channel sound experience. This means that no matter what we’re watching, we get an immersive sound experience.

The Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is also packed with technology. The acoustic architecture squeezes 5 speakers (including 2 upward firing) into a small, 27.5” wide soundbar to spread sound across the room: horizontally left and right, forward, and overhead. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Chromecast built-in compatibility let us stream content anyway we want.

However, the small, 27.5” wide soundbar may not be suitable for larger rooms. We also found that the included remote control may not be as user-friendly as expected. Additionally, the soundbar may not be compatible with all TV models.

Overall, we think the Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is a great option for those looking for a soundbar that delivers immersive sound for all your movies, TV shows, and music.

Buying Guide

When looking for a TV under $500, it’s important to consider a few key features to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Screen size

The size of the screen is an important factor to consider when choosing a TV. You want to make sure that the screen is large enough to provide an immersive viewing experience, but not so large that it overwhelms your space. A good rule of thumb is to choose a screen size that is appropriate for the size of your room. A 40-50 inch screen is usually sufficient for a small to medium-sized room, while a 55-65 inch screen is better suited for a larger room.

Resolution

The resolution of the TV will determine the picture quality. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more detailed the image will be. 4K resolution is the current standard for high-quality picture, but some TVs under $500 may only offer 1080p resolution. While 1080p can still provide a good viewing experience, if you’re looking for the best picture quality, it’s worth investing in a TV with 4K resolution.

Refresh rate

The refresh rate refers to how many times per second the TV updates the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate can help reduce motion blur and provide a smoother viewing experience, especially for fast-paced content like sports or action movies. Look for a TV with a refresh rate of at least 60Hz, but if you can find one with a higher refresh rate, it’s worth considering.

Smart features

Many TVs under $500 come with smart features that allow you to access streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime directly from the TV. This can be a convenient feature if you don’t want to invest in a separate streaming device like a Roku or Apple TV. Look for a TV with built-in Wi-Fi and support for your favorite streaming services.

By considering these factors when choosing a TV under $500, you can find a model that provides a great viewing experience without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated 55-inch TVs available for under $500?

We recommend the TCL 55S425 and the Hisense 55H8F as the top-rated 55-inch TVs available for under $500. Both models offer excellent picture quality, smart TV features, and plenty of connectivity options.

Which 65-inch TVs offer the best value for under $500?

The best 65-inch TVs for under $500 are the TCL 65S425 and the Vizio D65x-G4. Both models offer great value for the price, with good picture quality and a range of smart TV features.

Can you recommend a high-quality smart TV for less than $500?

Yes, we recommend the TCL 55S425 and the Hisense 55H8F as high-quality smart TVs for less than $500. Both models offer excellent picture quality, smart TV features, and plenty of connectivity options.

How does picture quality compare between TVs under $500 and those over $2000?

While there are certainly differences in picture quality between TVs under $500 and those over $2000, the gap has narrowed considerably in recent years. Many mid-range and budget TVs now offer excellent picture quality, with features like 4K resolution, HDR support, and local dimming.

What are the most reliable TV brands within the $500 price range?

Based on customer reviews and industry ratings, the most reliable TV brands within the $500 price range are TCL, Hisense, and Vizio. These brands offer a good balance of quality, features, and affordability.

What features should I look for in a 50-inch TV priced below $500?

When shopping for a 50-inch TV priced below $500, look for features like 4K resolution, HDR support, smart TV functionality, and multiple HDMI ports. These features will ensure that you get the best possible picture quality and a great overall viewing experience.