Are you looking for a high-quality TV without breaking the bank? In this article, we have compiled a list of the best TVs under $500 that offer impressive features and excellent value for your money. Whether you enjoy streaming movies, gaming, or watching your favorite shows, these affordable TVs deliver stunning visuals and immersive experiences. Join us as we explore the top picks in this price range and help you find the perfect TV to elevate your entertainment setup.
| TV Model | Resolution | Smart Features | Sound Technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Fire 4k TV | 4K | Voice Control, Alexa | Dolby Atmos, DTS |
| INSIGNIA F20 Series Smart TV | 1080p | Built-in Streaming Services | DTS TruSurround |
| Toshiba Class C350 TV | 720p | – | Standard Audio |
| Amazon Fire 720p TV | 720p | Voice Control, Alexa | Standard Audio |
| TCL Class 3-Series Smart TV | 1080p | Roku OS, Streaming Apps | Dolby Digital, DTS |
| Toshiba Class V35 Smart TV | 1080p | Miracast, Web Browser | Standard Audio |
| VIZIO D-Series Smart TV | 1080p | SmartCast, Streaming Apps | DTS Studio Sound |
| SAMSUNG Smart FHD TV | 1080p | Smart Hub, Bixby | Dolby Digital Plus |
| Hisense A6 Series Google TV | 4K | Google Assistant, Chromecast | Dolby Atmos, DTS |
| Westinghouse Smart Roku TV | 1080p | Roku OS, Streaming Services | DTS TruSurround, Dolby |
Amazon Fire 4k TV
The Amazon Fire TV 4K is a feature-packed streaming device that offers a fantastic viewing experience, earning a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats:
- Supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision
- Alexa voice remote included
- Over 500,000 movies and TV episodes available
Reasons to buy:
The Amazon Fire TV 4K has incredible ease of use, impressive content selection, and excellent support for the latest picture and sound formats. The Alexa voice remote makes it simple to navigate, search, and control your devices. Furthermore, the wide range of streaming services supported, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and many others, ensures you won’t run out of content to watch.
Reasons to not buy:
The Amazon Fire TV 4K has a preference for a different streaming platform or compatibility issues with certain devices. While it does boast a vast content library, some users may not be able to access all their favorite streaming services due to regional restrictions or licensing agreements.
Pros:
- Wide content selection from various streaming providers
- Great picture and sound quality, with support for 4K Ultra HD, HDR, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos
- Convenient voice control with Alexa remote
- User-friendly interface
- Regular software updates and improvements
Cons:
- Might not support all streaming services due to regional restrictions
- Some users have reported compatibility issues with certain TVs and sound systems
- Heavily geared towards Amazon Prime Video, which may not be preferred by some users
- Limited storage for additional apps and games
INSIGNIA F20 Series Smart TV
The Insignia F20 Series Smart TV is a versatile and user-friendly television set with a range of smart features, earning a solid 4 out of 5 rating.
Key stats:
- Display: 1080p Full HD
- Size options: 24-inch, 32-inch, 43-inch, 50-inch
- Smart platform: Fire TV
Reasons to buy:
The Insignia F20 Series Smart TV offers a full HD display, providing stunning visuals and crisp images. Being part of the Fire TV ecosystem means that you get seamless access to a wide variety of streaming services and apps, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, without the need for additional devices. The TV also comes in multiple size options, catering to various preferences and room sizes. Alexa integration allows for easy voice control, adding convenience and simplicity to everyday use.
Reasons not to buy:
Despite the impressive features, the Insignia F20 Series Smart TV may not be the best choice for true cinephiles or gamers, as it does not support 4K or HDR content. Additionally, those loyal to Google or Roku smart platforms might find the Fire TV interface unfamiliar, which may be less intuitive for them.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p display for clear, high-quality visuals
- Wide range of streaming options through the Fire TV platform
- Voice control capability with Alexa integration
- Multiple size options
Cons:
- No support for 4K or HDR content
- May not appeal to users who prefer other smart platforms like Google or Roku
Toshiba Class C350 TV
The Toshiba Class C350 TV delivers an immersive entertainment experience with impressive visuals and sound quality, earning a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Key stats:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support
- Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X for immersive audio
- TRU Engine for smooth motion and seamless upscaling
Reasons to buy:
The Toshiba Class C350 TV offers a budget-friendly entertainment centerpiece with high-quality 4K Ultra HD resolution, Dolby Vision, and HDR10 support, ensuring stunningly detailed visuals. In addition, the TV’s audio capabilities are bolstered by Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X, providing an immersive surround sound experience. Its TRU Engine technology enhances motion smoothness and upscales non-4K content to near 4K quality, making it perfect for those wanting to upgrade from older TV models without breaking the bank.
Reasons to not buy:
While the Toshiba Class C350 TV has a lot to offer, some users may find its lack of HDMI 2.1 inputs limiting, as this restricts the compatibility with some next-gen gaming consoles that require higher bandwidth. Additionally, the TV’s build quality and stand stability might not be as premium and sturdy as some customers would desire, raising concerns about its durability over time.
Pros:
- Affordable 4K Ultra HD TV
- Impressive visual quality with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support
- Immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X
- TRU Engine for smooth motion and upscaling
Cons:
- No HDMI 2.1 inputs for newer gaming consoles
- Build quality and stand stability might not be ideal
- Concerns about long-term durability
Amazon Fire 720p TV
The Amazon Fire 720p TV is a user-friendly and affordable smart TV that delivers decent entertainment experience, earning a 3.5 out of 5 stars rating.
Key stats:
- 720p HD resolution
- Variety of apps and streaming services available through the Amazon TV interface
- Voice control with Alexa
Reasons to buy:
The Amazon Fire 720p TV is a great choice for those on a budget or seeking a secondary TV for another room in their home. With access to various streaming services and apps, it offers ample entertainment options without breaking the bank. The 720p HD resolution, while not the highest available, provides decent picture quality. The added bonus of Alexa voice control simplifies navigation and makes for an enjoyable viewing experience.
Reasons not to buy:
If you prioritize high resolution and picture quality, the Amazon Fire 720p TV may not be the right choice, as there are better options in the market with 1080p and 4K resolutions. Additionally, if you prefer a different smart TV interface or streaming system, like Roku or Google TV, this TV’s Amazon-centric interface may not be your first choice. Lastly, the built-in speakers may not provide the cinematic audio experience that some users may desire.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- User-friendly Amazon TV interface
- Alexa voice control feature
Cons:
- 720p resolution may not satisfy users seeking higher picture quality
- Limited to the Amazon ecosystem and interface
- Built-in speakers may not provide the desired audio quality
TCL Class 3-Series Smart TV
The TCL Class 3-Series Smart TV is an affordable, user-friendly option with decent performance, earning a 3.9 out of 5 rating.
Key stats:
- Display size: 32″ – 49″
- Resolution: 720p to 1080p HD
- Refresh rate: 60Hz
Reasons to buy:
The TCL Class 3-Series Smart TV is an excellent option for those on a budget, offering features usually reserved for more expensive models. Its user-friendly interface makes navigating between streaming services, cable TV, and external devices a breeze. With Roku built-in, users can access a wide range of content and personalize their streaming experience. The picture quality is decent for the price range, making it an attractive option for smaller living spaces, home offices, or secondary TVs.
Reasons not to buy:
Despite its affordability, the TCL Class 3-Series Smart TV doesn’t offer the best picture quality on the market, with only 720p to 1080p HD resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. This may be a drawback for movie enthusiasts or gamers who desire higher resolution and smoother motion. Additionally, the TV’s built-in speakers may not be powerful enough for some users, who might need to invest in external audio solutions.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- User-friendly interface
- Built-in Roku streaming platform
- Decent picture quality for the price
Cons:
- Lower resolution and refresh rate compared to higher-end models
- Built-in speakers may not be powerful enough for some users
- Picture quality may not be suitable for hardcore movie enthusiasts or gamers
Toshiba Class V35 Smart TV
The Toshiba Class V35 Smart TV is a versatile and user-friendly entertainment hub, earning a solid rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats:
- Display: 4k Ultra HD resolution
- Smart Features: Streaming apps, voice control, and screen mirroring capabilities
- Connectivity: 3 HDMI ports, 1 USB port, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
Reasons to buy:
With its stunning 4k Ultra HD resolution, the Toshiba Class V35 offers crystal-clear image quality for an immersive viewing experience. Its vast array of built-in streaming apps, such as Netflix and YouTube, provide endless entertainment options without the need for additional devices. The voice control support, compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allows users to control the TV seamlessly, and the screen mirroring capability enables easy content sharing from compatible smartphones or tablets. With its multiple HDMI ports and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, this TV is a reliable and flexible option for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment setup.
Reasons not to buy:
Though this TV offers many attractive features, its performance might not be as robust as other high-end models in the market. Some users might find the built-in speakers lack the desired audio quality, which may necessitate an external soundbar. Additionally, this model does not offer the advanced gaming features seen in more premium TVs, which might be a drawback for dedicated gamers. Lastly, the Toshiba Class V35 may not be the best option for those who prefer a minimal or bezel-less aesthetic design for their TV.
Pros:
- Crisp 4k Ultra HD resolution
- Wide variety of streaming apps
- Voice control support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Screen mirroring capability
- Multiple HDMI ports and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons:
- Built-in speakers may lack the desired audio quality
- No advanced gaming features
- Design may not cater to those who prefer minimal or bezel-less aesthetic
VIZIO D-Series Smart TV
The VIZIO D-Series Smart TV is a sleek and user-friendly option for buyers seeking entertainment and convenience, earning a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats:
- Display: Full HD 1920×1080 resolution
- Smart Platform: VIZIO SmartCast with Google Chromecast built-in
- Refresh rate: 120Hz Effective Refresh Rate
Reasons to buy:
The VIZIO D-Series Smart TV offers an impressive Full HD resolution, providing sharp and crisp image quality for an enjoyable viewing experience. The SmartCast platform comes with Google Chromecast built-in, allowing easy access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. Furthermore, the 120Hz Effective Refresh Rate delivers smooth motion, making it perfect for watching fast-paced scenes in sports and action movies. Combining affordability with great functionality, this TV is a great choice for those seeking an accessible yet feature-rich smart TV.
Reasons to not buy:
However, the VIZIO D-Series Smart TV may not be suitable for those seeking the latest technology or budget-conscious consumers. The lack of 4K resolution and HDR support can be a dealbreaker for some, as competing brands offer entry-level 4K TVs at a similar price point. Additionally, the limited selection of streaming apps and absence of a voice-activated remote could deter potential buyers who require more advanced smart features.
Pros:
- Full HD resolution for sharp image quality
- Built-in Google Chromecast for easy streaming
- 120Hz Effective Refresh Rate for smooth playback
- Competitive pricing compared to similar models
Cons:
- No 4K resolution or HDR support
- Limited selection of streaming apps
- Lacks a voice-activated remote
- Competing brands may offer more advanced features at the same price
SAMSUNG Smart FHD TV
The Samsung Smart FHD TV offers an impressive viewing experience with its vibrant display and user-friendly features, earning a 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Key Stats:
- Display: Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution
- Smart Features: Built-in streaming apps, voice assistant compatibility, and screen mirroring
- Connectivity: Multiple HDMI and USB ports, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities
Reasons to buy:
The Samsung Smart FHD TV has a crisp and vibrant Full HD display, which provides outstanding picture quality suitable for various types of content. Its wide range of smart features allows easy access to popular streaming services, voice assistant integration, and screen mirroring for convenient content sharing. Additionally, its numerous connectivity options make it a versatile choice for various home entertainment setups.
Reasons to not buy:
The Samsung Smart FHD TV has a lack of 4K resolution, which could be a deal-breaker for those who prioritize higher resolutions for their content consumption. Furthermore, while it has multiple HDMI and USB ports, it may still be limited for those with extensive entertainment systems requiring more inputs.
Pros:
- Vibrant and crisp Full HD display
- Wide range of built-in smart features
- Multiple connectivity options for versatile entertainment setups
Cons:
- Lacks 4K resolution
- Limited number of HDMI and USB ports for extensive entertainment systems
Hisense A6 Series Google TV
The Hisense A6 Series Google TV is a versatile and budget-friendly choice, offering an enjoyable viewing experience with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Key stats:
- Display: 4K UHD resolution with Dolby Vision HDR support
- OS: Google TV with built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant
- Audio: DTS Virtual: X technology for immersive sound
Reasons to buy:
The Hisense A6 Series Google TV is an excellent option for those looking for a high-quality and affordable 4K TV. With Google TV, it offers a user-friendly interface, along with built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant features, creating a seamless entertainment experience. The display provides stunning visuals with Dolby Vision HDR support, while the DTS Virtual: X technology ensures an immersive audio experience, bringing your favorite shows and movies to life.
Reasons to not buy:
While the Hisense A6 Series Google TV delivers exceptional value, it may not suit consumers searching for more advanced features or a more premium design. The TV’s build quality and materials may not be at the same level as some competitors, and the image quality, though impressive, might not compete with higher-tier models or OLED displays.
Pros:
- Affordable without compromising performance
- Convenient Google TV integration
- Impressive 4K UHD display with Dolby Vision HDR
- DTS Virtual: X technology for immersive sound
Cons:
- Build materials may not be as premium as competitors
- Image quality may not compete with high-end models
- Lack of more advanced features compared to premium TVs
Westinghouse Smart Roku TV
The Westinghouse Smart Roku TV is a versatile television with numerous streaming options, earning it a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Key stats:
- Display: 4K Ultra HD resolution
- Size options: Available in various sizes (32″, 40″, 50″, 58″, 65″, 75″)
- Streaming: Provides access to over 500,000 movies and TV episodes
Reasons to buy:
The Westinghouse Smart Roku TV offers a seamless and user-friendly streaming experience, with a vast selection of content available at your fingertips. The 4K Ultra HD resolution ensures that you’ll enjoy a clear and vibrant picture quality, while the variety of sizes ensures that you can choose the perfect option for your space. The affordable price point makes it an excellent option for those looking to upgrade their home entertainment without breaking the bank.
Reasons not to buy:
For those who are interested in a more advanced or premium TV, the Westinghouse Smart Roku TV may not be the best option due to its relatively basic features and lack of high-end functions, such as quantum dot technology or Dolby Atmos audio. Additionally, consumers looking for a more extensive app selection or a more robust voice-controlled assistant might find the built-in Roku system lacking in comparison to other smart TV platforms.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Wide range of streaming content
- 4K Ultra HD resolution
- Variety of sizes
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features and functions
- Limited app selection compared to other platforms
- Basic voice control capabilities
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I get a good quality TV under $500?
A: Absolutely! There are several TV models available under $500 that offer impressive quality, advanced features, and stunning visuals. Our list includes some of the best options to consider within this price range.
Q: What screen sizes are available in the under $500 range?
A: You can find TVs with various screen sizes under $500, ranging from 32 inches to 55 inches or more. Consider the size that best suits your viewing space and preferences.
Q: Do these TVs support streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime?
A: Yes, many of the TVs in this price range come with built-in smart features that support popular streaming services. You can enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and online content with ease.
Q: Can I use these TVs for gaming?
A: Absolutely! Most of the TVs in this range offer low input lag and gaming-specific features, making them suitable for gaming enthusiasts. Check the specifications and features of each model to ensure it meets your gaming needs.
Q: Are these TVs easy to set up and use?
A: Yes, the TVs in our selection are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up. They come with intuitive interfaces and remote controls, allowing you to navigate through settings and content effortlessly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding a top-notch TV under $500 is indeed possible. Our carefully curated selection showcases the best options that combine affordability with impressive features and performance. From stunning visuals and immersive audio to smart capabilities and gaming enhancements, these TVs offer excellent value for your money. Remember to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your final choice. With the right TV, you can enjoy a captivating viewing experience without straining your budget.
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