Looking to upgrade your TV without breaking the bank? Discover the top budget-friendly options that deliver exceptional quality without the hefty price tag!

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Buy a Cheap TV

With technology advancing rapidly and prices dropping, it's a fantastic time to invest in a budget TV. But don’t be tempted to settle for the first decent-looking model; quality varies significantly among cheap options. Our team has meticulously tested a range of TVs to bring you the best budget finds that offer both performance and usability.

What Makes a TV the "Best Cheap"?

Key factors we consider include price, performance, and user-friendliness. For most consumers, the sweet spot is around $500 or less. While a few extra dollars can enhance quality, this guide focuses on delivering superior options while keeping costs low. We recommend 55-inch models over larger ones to strike a balance between size and performance.

Top Picks for Budget TVs

Best Value: Vizio 4K TV (Model: V4K55M-0801) - $328

This Vizio TV is a powerhouse for its price, boasting features like Dolby Vision HDR and gaming-friendly attributes like variable refresh rate (VRR). It's bright, colorful, and comes in sizes ranging from 43 to 86 inches. While its performance in dark rooms may not rival pricier models, it’s a remarkable deal at $300 or less.

Best Smart TV: Roku Plus Series QLED - $348

Roku has successfully entered the TV market with a line that merges an intuitive interface with impressive visuals. The Plus Series offers vibrant colors through quantum dot technology and excellent black levels thanks to full-array local dimming. With smart features like a voice-search remote and compatibility with major smart home systems, it’s an ideal pick for tech-savvy shoppers.

Best Upgrade Option: TCL QM6K QLED - $748

If you can stretch your budget, the TCL QM6K is worth every penny. This TV features mini-LED display technology for incredible color and deep blacks. It boasts a 120-Hz refresh rate and is equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports for gaming enthusiasts. Typically found at around $550 on sale, it’s a fantastic buy for those craving high performance.

Affordable Alternative: TCL Q6 - $268

For an even cheaper option, the TCL Q6 offers a solid experience despite lacking local dimming and only featuring a 60-Hz display. Its vibrant colors and easy streaming capabilities make it perfect for casual viewers. You can usually snag a 65-inch model for under $500!

Best Technology for the Price: Hisense U6N - $550

The Hisense U6N harnesses mini-LED technology to deliver impressive visuals with vibrant colors. Regularly priced at under $600, it’s an exceptional choice for gamers due to its 144-Hz refresh rate. While the Fire TV interface is a bit clunkier than Roku or Google TV, the picture quality rivals that of much more expensive models.

What's Next? Newly Tested TVs on the Horizon

Exciting new models are constantly being evaluated to enhance our recommendations. The LG B5 OLED is catching our attention, although "cheap" may be a stretch. Historically, LG’s B-series offers outstanding OLED benefits at prices well below competitors. Given the rave reviews of previous models, this could be a must-have for those wanting an OLED experience on a budget.

Stay tuned as we continue to test and refine our suggestions, ensuring you find the perfect affordable TV for your needs!