Television is the cornerstone of entertainment in homes worldwide. Whether for movies, streaming, or gaming, users expect their TV to provide an exciting and cinematic experience, all without breaking the bank.
Therefore, the quest for an affordable TV that doesn't compromise quality can be daunting, especially when balancing cost with features like resolution, smart capabilities, and screen size. This guide shines a spotlight on the best TVs one can get on a modest budget, helping users navigate through the maze of options to find a set that offers both value and quality.
How to Choose the Best Budget TV
Navigating the market for budget TVs involves considering several key factors, including screen resolution, smart features, and the reliability of warranties. These three aspects alone can help tremendously in making a well-informed decision.
- Screen Resolution: Screen resolution is paramount in a TV's visual appeal. Full HD (1080p) is a common baseline for budget TVs, offering decent picture quality. However, some budget models may offer 4K resolution, enhancing clarity and detail, especially in larger screen sizes.
- Smart Features: Smart features in budget TVs can vary widely. It's essential to look for models that support popular streaming apps and have stable internet connectivity. This ensures the TV remains a versatile entertainment hub without needing additional devices.
- Brand and Warranty: Choosing a budget TV from a reputable brand with a strong warranty can alleviate concerns about longevity and performance issues. Trusted brands often provide better customer support and more reliable warranties, ensuring peace of mind in the long term.
- Use Case: Besides searching for the ultimate budget TV, it's worth exploring ways to improve the gaming setup, which is crucial for a complete entertainment experience. For instance, a top-tier budget TV can be paired with a retro gaming console, adding a touch of nostalgia to every gaming session. For each use case, there's a budget TV ready and waiting to enhance the experience.
Game ZXC's picks for the Best Budget TVs in 2024
VIZIO D-Series 32" Smart TV
Primarily intended for buyers with a modest budget, the VIZIO D-Series 32" TV still offers some exciting features. It comes with a 1080p Full-HD resolution which looks good most of the time. Being a smart TV, viewers can stream movies, shows, news, and music on their favorite apps. Vizio's Watchfree streaming service sweetens the deal with access to 260+ live channels. AMD FreeSync makes this TV a decent option for gaming with low latency and an auto-game mode.
- Connectivity Technology
- HDMI, USB
- 1080p Full-HD resolution for sharp and clear images
- AMD FreeSync for smoother gaming experiences
- Vizio's Watchfree service with over 260 live channels
- Dependent on strong Wi-Fi for optimal functionality
- 60 Hz refresh rate may not satisfy all gamers
The VIZIO D-Series 32" Smart TV stands out as the best overall budget TV, offering a blend of attractive features to gamers and streaming enthusiasts. Its 1080p Full-HD resolution ensures crisp, clear images, while AMD FreeSync technology reduces lag and screen tearing for a smoother gaming experience. Although compact, this TV offers a comprehensive streaming experience with Vizio's Watchfree service, boasting over 260 live channels.
However, it's not without its limitations. The absence of HDR means the TV doesn't reach the peak color and contrast capabilities some users might expect. Connectivity issues, particularly with apps and reliance on strong Wi-Fi, have been noted by users.
Despite these drawbacks, for those seeking a versatile and affordable TV, the VIZIO D-Series 32" Smart TV remains a top recommendation, especially for those prioritizing a balance between gaming performance and streaming quality.
Toshiba 43-inch Class C350 Series LED 4K TV
The Toshiba Class C350 Series LED 4K TV keeps content in one place, thanks to Fire TV. Whether it’s live, over-the-air TV, streaming channels, or other favorite apps, users can access them all on the home screen. The Regza Engine 4K, Toshiba’s high-performance 4K engine, combines ultra-essential PQ technology with a high-quality LCD panel to produce stunning picture quality.
With four times the resolution of Full HD, the Toshiba 4K TV provides uncompromisingly crisp, clear visuals for a fully immersive experience. Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 transform TVs into true entertainment powerhouses, offering an amazing realism users will see, hear, and feel like never before.
- Brand
- Toshiba
- Refresh Rate
- 120
- Dimensions
- 2.9"D x 37.9"W x 22"H
- Display Technology
- LED
- Connectivity Technology
- Coaxial
- Resolution
- 4K
- Ports
- 3 HDMI
- Responsive Fire TV
- Good color in standard mode
- Low latency
- Very affordable
- Flat HDR
- Inconsistent backlighting
For fans of Amazon Fire TV or people looking for an incredible budget 4K TV that can easily fit into smaller spaces, the Toshiba C350 Fire TV is an excellent choice. Despite this very reasonable price tag, this TV looks absolutely stunning, especially thanks to its 4K panel.
With the lower price tag, the C350 doesn't have all the fancy bells and whistles that higher-end 4K TVs have, but it does support Dolby Vision and HDR10. The HDR on this TV is not the best available, but it's also not going to detract from the viewing experience at all, especially for this price. Whether users want to use this TV for watching content or for gaming, the color performance and decent peak brightness combine for excellent screen quality that can even be enjoyed in direct sunlight.
Audio-wise, the C350 produces power pretty much equivalent to the size of this TV. Dialogue is clear and easy to pick out even with background noise; however, the bass is somewhat lacking. Action scenes feel a little lackluster, but again, for under $300, it is hard to complain.
LG C2 Series 42-Inch OLED TV
The LG C2 is an attractive OLED TV that makes it possible for Xbox Series X and other current-gen console owners to game at 120 FPS. To further sweeten the deal, the C2 ships with premium gaming specs like Nvidia G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium, and VRR. Cloud gaming is also possible thanks to Nvidia GeForce Now, the cloud-based game streaming service. It also boasts a wide range of streaming platforms along with cinema-standard features.
- Dimensions
- 6.7"D x 36.7"W x 22.7"H
- Brand
- LG
- Refresh Rate
- 120 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- G-SYNC
- Yes
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- Yes
- Stunning 4K resolution for crystal-clear visuals
- 120 Hz refresh rate ideal for gaming and movies
- Advanced OLED technology for exceptional color and contrast
- High-end price point may not suit all budgets
- Advanced features more suited for tech-savvy users
The LG C2 Series 42-inch OLED TV represents the pinnacle of OLED technology, making it a standout choice for those seeking the best visual experience without breaking the bank. Its 4K resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate deliver unparalleled clarity and fluidity, perfect for both high-definition gaming and cinematic experiences.
With Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium, gamers enjoy tear-free, stutter-free visuals, while VRR support enhances overall picture quality. This TV's compatibility with cloud-based gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now further solidifies its position as a top-tier entertainment hub.
While the LG C2 Series shines in many areas, potential buyers should consider its premium price and the need for careful handling to prevent OLED burn-in. Its advanced features, while impressive, might be overwhelming for users who prefer simpler setups. Despite these factors, the LG C2's stunning color contrast, deep blacks, and overall quality make it an undeniable leader in the OLED budget TV market.
Insignia 50-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV
The INSIGNIA 50-inch Class F30 Series TV offers a 4K Ultra HD resolution. This means it provides four times the resolution of Full HD televisions. The TV comes with built-in Alexa voice control, allowing users to manage their Fire TV with just their voice. In addition to voice controls, the TV offers hands-free operation when paired with an Amazon Echo. DTS Studio Sound support offers a better audio experience with two-speaker playback.
- Dimensions
- 10.4"D x 44.4"W x 27.8"H
- Brand
- INSIGNIA
- Resolution
- 4K
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi
- Ports
- 3x HDMI, 1x USB, 1x 3.5mm
- Responsive Fire TV OS
- Alexa integration makes it easy to use with other smart home devices
- Wide sound
- 4K resolution
- Out of box settings need to be changed for best results
- Poor contrast
Even though most TVs today have some SmartTV features, not all SmartTVs are made equally, especially in the budget category. Luckily, the Isignia F30 Fire TV has a very reasonable price point, and the FireTV OS on it is very responsive.
The Insignia F30 Fire TV series has been around for a couple of years, but the latest edition of the Insignia F30 Fire TV has several much-needed upgrades over the previous version that make it well worth its affordable price tag. Yet its best features remain the excellent implementation of Fire OS TV and Alexa support, which makes it a perfect budget addition to a smart home. It is hard for people who already use Alexa devices to control lights or smart home devices to go wrong with the F30.
Out of the box, the color reproduction on this TV is a bit too oversaturated, and the colors are skewed too far toward red. After tweaking the default settings a bit users can get the colors on the F30 to look much better. Game ZXC recommends using the "Natural" setting for the best color reproduction.
Hisense 65-Inch Class U6 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV
Looking for an affordable smart TV that packs a world of goodness? Check out the 65-inch Hisense U6 Series TV which renders content in a rich 4K resolution. Using Mini-LED technology, the TV can create a bright and more uniform image across the screen. What's more, Filmmaker Mode allows viewers to watch movies in the original settings for the color and aspect ratio that the director wanted. Game Mode Plus brings advanced gaming features that aim to deliver a lag-free experience.
- Dimensions
- 3.1"D x 57.1"W x 33.1"H
- Display Technology
- Mini-LED
- What's Included
- Stand, TV, Remote Control, Power Cable
- Brand
- Hisense
- Resolution
- 4K
- Connectivity Technology
- Bluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi
- Weight
- 60.6 Pounds
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- HDR?
- HDR 10+
- Excellent color reproduction
- Improved black levels and contrast
- Google TV intergration
- Low input lag
- Not particularly bright
- Colors in all the modes are not consistent
For years, Hisense has been producing value-packed TVs offering premium features and high-end performance at reasonable prices. At $600, this TV is not the most affordable option in this guide, but for a MiniLED panel, this TV offers excellent image quality, stunning contrast, and a considerable upgrade over the previous generation Hisense U6H.
MiniLED is a reasonably new panel technology, but it is making waves with how similar the local dimming zones look like an OLED panel for a typically lower price point. The Hisense U6 is an excellent example of why MiniLED panels have quickly earned such a reputation with stunning bright colors in HDR and SDR modes. But the real test as an OLED alternative is with darker scenes. The U6 produces inky blacks that still show detail and do not get blown out even when watching in daylight.
While watching TV or movies on the U6 is a nearly perfect experience, gaming falls short. With a max refresh rate of 60Hz, this TV is not bad for gaming; in gaming mode, the input lag is an impressive 3.7 milliseconds. But for people who are used to 120Hz refresh rate, a TV like the Vizio MQX-Series might be a better option.
Vizio M50QXM-K01 MQX-Series 4K QLED TV
This Vizio MQX Series 4K television comes with a 50-inch display panel with QLED technology. The Quantum Color technology allows increased color performance in a 4K resolution with the use of Active Full Array Backlight technology and local dimming. Buyers will also appreciate the fact that this TV supports Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+ for vibrant high dynamic range content. Vizio's smart TV platform allows easy access to millions of titles from popular streaming channels and other apps. Vizio WatchFree+ offers over 250 free live-streaming channels too.
- Brand
- Vizio
- Refresh Rate
- 120 Hz
- Dimensions
- 10"D x 43.8"W x 25.5"H
- Display Technology
- QLED
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, Ethernet
- What's Included
- XRT260 Voice Remote, 2 x AAA Batteries, Power Cable, Stand
- Resolution
- 4K
- Quantum Color technology for vibrant imagery
- 120Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
- Offers access to a wide range of content
- HDMI 2.1 support
- Heavier than some models
- No direct way to add apps from the online store
Low-latency gaming on a TV has become much more possible, even on a budget, over the last couple of years. The Vizio M50QXM-K01 is an excellent choice for gamers who want a reasonably affordable TV, but it also has all the features gamers need for the best experience. Not only does this TV have a 120Hz refresh rate, but it also has AMD FreeSync support and an impressively wide color gamut that beats even some higher-end TVs.
While the color gamut is good, most people will pick up this TV mainly for low-latency gaming, and it does not disappoint. With 120Hz at 4K, this TV can easily handle any console or PC gaming needs, but if gamers are willing to sacrifice some resolution and drop down to 1080p, this TV can run at an impressive 240Hz. While 1080p is kind of low for a panel of this size, it won't be too noticeable if people are sitting a reasonable distance away from the TV.
Vizio 55-inch V555-J01 UHD 4K TV
Looking for an amazing budget gaming TV with high-quality 4K resolution? The Vizio V555-J01 is perfect for streaming and gaming. Using Vizio's V-Gaming Engine, this TV can upscale HD content to 4K standards. The V555-J01 also comes with decent gaming specs like AMD FreeSync, Auto Game Mode, and VRR. It's compatible with Google Home, Alexa, and Apple Home.
- Dimensions
- 10.24"D x 49.06"W x 30.87"H
- Brand
- Vizio
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- Resolution
- 4K
- V-Gaming Engine and AMD FreeSync for enhanced gaming
- Compatible with Google Home, Alexa, and Apple Home
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Some users report inconsistent sound quality
- Limited to 60Hz refresh rate
The Vizio 55-inch V555-J01 UHD 4K TV is a powerhouse of versatility, offering sharp, detailed images with its 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rate, which is why it's the top pick in the multipurpose category. This TV can handle it all, whether watching Netflix, playing Xbox, or connecting to home apps.
Its V-Gaming Engine and AMD FreeSync technology create a smooth gaming experience. At the same time, its compatibility with leading smart home systems like Google Home, Alexa, and Apple Home adds a layer of convenience for users.
However, it's important to note some limitations, such as the basic remote and the occasional sound quality issues reported by users. These are minor drawbacks compared to the TV's overall performance and value, especially considering its easy setup and user-friendly interface. This TV is plug-and-play and is ready for a variety of uses. Therefore, the Vizio V555-J01 stands as an ideal choice for those seeking a multipurpose TV that balances gaming, streaming, and everyday viewing.
INSIGNIA 42-inch Class F20 Series TV
The INSIGNIA 42-inch Class F20 Series TV is the perfect budget TV for pocket-conscious consumers. Offering a 1080p resolution, the content won't look the way it would in 4K, but it still delivers high-definition viewing for one's favorite movies, shows, and games. Alexa makes it possible to perform several hands-free tasks without any hassle using voice commands. What's more the built-in Fire TV experience grants access to over 1 million streaming movies and TV episodes, along with tens of thousands of live channels.
- Dimensions
- ‎8.7 x 37.4 x 23.5 inches
- Brand
- INSIGNIA
- Resolution
- 1080P
- Connectivity Technology
- Wi-Fi
- Weight
- 20.7 pounds
- Incredibly affordable
- Comes with in-built Fire TV OS
- Supports hands-free control
- Doesn't come with advanced gaming features
The 42-inch Insignia Smart TV is an excellent pocket-friendly product with an assortment of modest features. Lovers of the Fire TV experience should feel right at home with this TV, seeing how it comes with the OS and allows buyers to perform many hands-free actions using Alexa.
What's more, there are always new Alexa capabilities to try out, like asking the voice assistant to start a video call on Zoom. Unfortunately, users will have to settle for 1080p resolution, as the Insignia TV can't render content in 4K or higher. Folks who can do without the superior picture quality of 4K, such as those on last-gen consoles like the Xbox One or PS4, should have no trouble adapting to this Insignia TV.
That does mean, however, that despite being equipped with HDMI 2.0 ports, gamers who play on current-gen consoles won't be able to experience the 4K/120Hz gaming experience. The TV also doesn't offer any advanced gaming features like ALLM, VRR, or Nvidia G-Sync compatibility. Given its price point, this is an understandable flaw. It does support Apple Airplay, meaning that users can easily share content like photos and videos to the TV's screen from an Apple device. It may be missing several premium features, but it is still one of the best budget TVs worth considering.
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FAQ
Q: Can budget TVs be used for gaming?
Certainly, many budget TVs are suitable for gaming, though they might lack some advanced features like high refresh rates found in pricier models.
Q: Do budget TVs have good sound quality?
While budget TVs may not match high-end models, many offer decent sound quality, and an external soundbar can generally enhance the audio experience.
Q: How long do budget TVs typically last?
Budget TVs can last several years with proper care, though their lifespan may be shorter compared to higher-end models.