Which is the Best TV Under $500? Top 10 Picks for 2025! 📺

In a world where streaming services are king and binge-watching is a beloved pastime, finding the perfect TV that fits your budget can feel like searching for a diamond in the rough. If you’re on the hunt for the best TV under $500, you’re in luck! We’ve meticulously researched and tested the top contenders to help you make an informed decision. Did you know that nearly 70% of households now own a smart TV? With so many options available, it’s crucial to find one that offers the best features without breaking the bank.

In this article, we’ll unveil our top 10 picks for budget-friendly TVs that deliver impressive performance, stunning visuals, and smart capabilities—all for under $500. Whether you’re a movie buff, a sports fanatic, or a casual viewer, we’ve got something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover which TV will become the centerpiece of your living room!

Key Takeaways

• Top 10 Picks: We’ve curated a list of the best TVs under $500 based on performance, features, and user reviews.
• Key Features: Look for 4K resolution, HDR support, and smart TV capabilities to enhance your viewing experience.
• Size Matters: Choose the right screen size for your space—options range from 43″ to 65″.
• Value for Money: Brands like Hisense and TCL consistently deliver quality at an affordable price.
• 👉 Shop Smart: Check out our recommendations for where to find these TVs at the best prices: Shop Hisense TVs | Shop TCL TVs.

Ready to find your perfect TV? Let’s explore our top picks!

Table of Contents

• Quick Tips and Facts
• Understanding Budget TVs: What to Look For
• Top 10 Best TVs Under $500: Our Expert Picks
  • Best 55-Inch TVs Under $500
  • Best 65-Inch TVs Under $500
  • Best Cheap TVs Under $500
• Comparative Analysis: Features to Consider
• Notable Mentions: Hidden Gems Under $500
• All Reviews: In-Depth Look at Each Model
• Best TVs by Size: Finding Your Perfect Fit
• Suggested Reads: Expanding Your TV Knowledge
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• FAQ
• Reference Links

Quick Tips and Facts

Before diving into our comprehensive guide on the best TVs under $500, here are some quick tips to keep in mind:

• Screen Size Matters: Most budget TVs come in 43″, 50″, 55″, and 65″ sizes. Choose based on your room size and viewing distance! 📏
• Resolution is Key: Aim for 4K resolution for sharp images. Avoid settling for 1080p or lower. 📺
• HDR Support: Look for TVs that support HDR10 and Dolby Vision for enhanced color and contrast. 🌈
• Smart Features: Ensure the TV has a user-friendly smart platform like Roku, Google TV, or Fire TV for easy access to streaming services. 📲
• Check Reviews: Always read expert reviews and user feedback to gauge performance and reliability. 📝

Understanding Budget TVs: What to Look For

When shopping for a budget TV under $500, it’s essential to understand what features matter most. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects to consider:

Key Features to Consider

Top 10 Best TVs Under $500: Our Expert Picks

We’ve scoured the market and compiled our top picks for the best TVs under $500. Here’s what we found! 🎉

Best 55-Inch TVs Under $500

1. Hisense 55U6N

   • Rating: 9/10
   • Type: LED
   • Resolution: 4K
   • Key Features: Excellent contrast, supports Dolby Vision, and great upscaling capabilities.
   • Pros: Fantastic picture quality, good for gaming with VRR support.
   • Cons: Limited to 4K @ 60Hz.

2. TCL Q6/Q651G

   • Rating: 8.5/10
   • Type: LED
   • Resolution: 4K
   • Key Features: Good native contrast ratio, supports HDR10+.
   • Pros: Good for gaming, decent reflection handling.
   • Cons: Lacks local dimming, which affects black levels.

Best 65-Inch TVs Under $500

1. TCL Q6/Q651G QLED
   • Rating: 8/10
   • Type: LED
   • Resolution: 4K
   • Key Features: Good SDR brightness, supports Dolby Vision.
   • Pros: Affordable for a larger screen size.
   • Cons: No HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, limited to 4K @ 60Hz.

Best Cheap TVs Under $500

1. Hisense A7N
   • Rating: 8.5/10
   • Type: LED
   • Resolution: 4K
   • Key Features: Available in multiple sizes (43″ to 85″), runs Google TV OS.
   • Pros: Low input lag, good for gaming.
   • Cons: No local dimming, limited to 4K @ 60Hz.

Comparative Analysis: Features to Consider

When comparing these budget TVs, consider the following features:

Notable Mentions: Hidden Gems Under $500

While the top picks are impressive, here are some notable mentions that deserve attention:

• Samsung CU7000: Great colors and brightness, but lacks the contrast of other models.
• Amazon Fire TV Omni Series: Good for streaming, but not as bright as competitors.
• TCL S5/S551G: A solid alternative to the Hisense A7N, especially for gamers.

All Reviews: In-Depth Look at Each Model

For a deeper dive into each model, check out our detailed reviews:

• Hisense 55U6N Review: Read More
• TCL Q6/Q651G Review: Read More
• Hisense A7N Review: Read More

Best TVs by Size: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Choosing the right size is crucial! Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• 43″ TVs: Ideal for small rooms or bedrooms.
• 50″ TVs: Great for medium-sized living rooms.
• 55″ TVs: A popular choice for most households.
• 65″ TVs: Perfect for larger spaces or home theaters.

Suggested Reads: Expanding Your TV Knowledge

Want to learn more about TVs? Check out these articles:

• TV Brand Comparisons
• TV Technology
• Affordable TV Options

Stay tuned for our Conclusion, where we summarize our findings and give you the final scoop on the best budget TVs!

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best TV under $500 doesn’t have to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack! Our top picks, including the Hisense 55U6N, TCL Q6/Q651G, and Hisense A7N, showcase impressive features that deliver great performance without breaking the bank.

Summary of Positives and Negatives:

• Hisense 55U6N

  • Positives: Excellent picture quality, supports Dolby Vision, good for gaming with VRR.
  • Negatives: Limited to 4K @ 60Hz, which may not satisfy hardcore gamers.

• TCL Q6/Q651G

  • Positives: Good native contrast, supports HDR10+, decent for gaming.
  • Negatives: Lacks local dimming, affecting black levels.

• Hisense A7N

  • Positives: Low input lag, runs Google TV OS, available in various sizes.
  • Negatives: No local dimming, limited to 4K @ 60Hz.

We confidently recommend the Hisense 55U6N as the best overall choice for its combination of features and performance, making it a fantastic option for both casual viewers and gamers alike. If you’re looking for a larger screen, the TCL Q6 is a solid contender, while the Hisense A7N is perfect for those who want a versatile option across multiple sizes.

Recommended Links

• 👉 Shop Hisense 55U6N on: Amazon | Hisense Official Website
• 👉 Shop TCL Q6/Q651G on: Amazon | TCL Official Website
• 👉 Shop Hisense A7N on: Amazon | Hisense Official Website
• Books on TV Technology: Amazon Books on TV Technology

FAQ

What are the top-rated TVs under $500 based on picture quality and features?

The Hisense 55U6N stands out for its excellent picture quality with a wide color gamut and good brightness levels. The TCL Q6/Q651G also offers decent performance, especially for gaming, while the Hisense A7N is a versatile option with solid features for its price.

Which TV brands offer the best value for money in the under $500 price range?

Brands like Hisense and TCL consistently deliver great value in this price range. Their models often include advanced features like HDR support and smart TV capabilities, making them excellent choices for budget-conscious consumers.

Are there any 4K TVs available for under $500 that are worth buying?

Absolutely! The Hisense 55U6N, TCL Q6, and Hisense A7N are all 4K TVs available for under $500. They provide excellent picture quality and support for HDR formats, making them worth considering for your next purchase.

What are the key features to look for when buying a budget-friendly TV under $500?

When shopping for a budget TV, prioritize:

• 4K Resolution: For better clarity.
• HDR Support: For enhanced color and contrast.
• Smart Features: Access to streaming services.
• Refresh Rate: Higher rates are better for gaming.
• Input Options: Ensure enough HDMI ports for your devices.

What are the pros and cons of different screen types (LED, LCD) in TVs under $500?

• LED TVs:

  • Pros: Bright, energy-efficient, and generally affordable.
  • Cons: May have poorer black levels compared to OLED.

• LCD TVs:

  • Pros: Good color accuracy and brightness.
  • Cons: Limited viewing angles and contrast compared to newer technologies.

Reference Links

• RTINGS – Best TVs Under $500
• The New York Times – Best 4K TV
• Reviewed – Best TVs Under $500
• Hisense Official Website
• TCL Official Website

For more insights on budget TVs, check out our article on 3 Best Budget TVs Under $500 of 2025 – Reviewed. Happy viewing! 🎉