The 4 best TVs under $500, including small and big-screen options
Our experts have rounded up the top TVs available for under $500 across various sizes, with picks ranging from 50 to 70 inches.
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Shopping for a new TV can be tricky, especially with so many pricey models on the market. But don't worry, there are great bargains out there if you know where to look. To help you find a reliable display that doesn't weigh too heavily on your wallet, our experts have compiled a list of the four best TVs under $500. Our picks are categorized by size, ranging from 50 to 70 inches, so different spaces are accounted for.
We've focused on selecting models that deliver the best performance available at each size while still meeting our price requirements. For example, people who want a solid 65-inch TV that's typically sold for under $500 should check out the TCL Q65. The Q65's QLED screen offers better color performance than most competing displays in its price range. Meanwhile, the Hisense U6HF is the most impressive 50-inch TV available for under $500. Thanks to its local dimming feature, the U6HF has better contrast than other options in its class.
Our recommendations for the best TVs under $500 are based on a combination of hands-on testing and research informed by more than a decade of experience covering tech products.
Our top picks for the best TVs under $500
Best 50-inch: Hisense U6HF - See at Best Buy
Best 55-inch: Roku Plus Series - See at Amazon
Best 65-inch: TCL Q65 - See at Amazon
Best 70-inch: Insignia F50 - See at Amazon
Best 50-inch
The Hisense U6HF is the best TV under $500 for anyone who wants a 50-inch display. Its performance isn't quite as good as the brand's newer U6K or U6N, but those models aren't available in this size. To get better picture performance from a 50-inch TV, you'd have to pay at least $650.
The U6HF is essentially a downgraded version of the Hisense U6K. Like the U6K, it has a QLED panel to deliver wide color support and up to 600 nits of brightness, which is excellent for this price. It also has local dimming to control light output across specific zones on its screen. This gives it much better contrast performance than cheaper 50-inch TVs. However, this model uses regular-sized LEDs in its backlight rather than the Mini LEDs that are used on the U6K and U6N. As a result, black levels can't get as deep as those models, and blooming (halos around bright objects on the screen) is more prevalent.
Like all our picks in this guide, the U6HF has narrow viewing angles and a screen limited to 60Hz. This means its colors will fade if you sit to the side of the display, and it can't support 120Hz gaming. But compared to other 50-inch TVs in this price range, it's nearly in a class of its own. Most TVs this size don't have local dimming at all, and many have a more limited range of colors.
The TV also comes with an Alexa voice remote and uses the Fire TV OS as its interface. Hisense used to offer a Google TV version of this model, simply called the U6H, but that edition is no longer sold. The 50-inch U6HF has a full list price of $340, but it's often available for as little as $260 during deal events, which is an incredible value.
When it comes to competing 50-inch TVs, buyers should also consider Amazon's Fire TV Omni QLED. The Omni QLED is a little dimmer than the U6HF but it has similar color and contrast capabilities, as well as the added bonus of hands-free Alexa support. The 50-inch Omni QLED has an MSRP of over $500, but it's frequently on sale for around $400.
Check out all our picks for the best 50-inch TVs and the best budget TVs.
Best 55-inch
Buyers who want the best 55-inch TV for under $500 should check out the Roku Plus Series. It delivers good image quality for the money and boasts our favorite smart TV interface.
Like the 50-inch Hisense U6HF, the 55-inch Roku Plus Series uses a QLED panel with quantum dots and local dimming to provide expanded colors and high contrast. However, the Plus Series has more zones to work with, and it can get a little brighter.
During our tests, high-dynamic range (HDR) content came through with solid pop, making this a great budget TV for movie-watching. There are a few shortcomings, like poor viewing angles and a 60Hz screen, but those limitations are common on most sets under $500. Considering its low price, the Plus Series' image performance excels where it counts most. Ryan Waniata/Insider
We also like this model's Roku OS (operating system) more than rival interfaces, like Google TV and Fire TV. While those platforms place a heavy emphasis on content recommendations, Roku takes a simpler approach. The streamlined homepage focuses squarely on presenting all your TV apps upfront and center with large icons that make it easy to organize everything and jump right into your favorite services.
The TV's remote has a few nice perks as well, including a built-in battery that recharges over USB. The remote also supports hands-free voice search (with a dedicated mute switch) and has a tiny integrated speaker that can emit a chime if you ever misplace it.
The 55-inch Roku Plus Series has a full retail price of just under $500, but it's often on sale for even less. In this price range, buyers should also consider Hisense's 55-inch U6N. That model has a list price of over $500, but it's often discounted and sometimes costs even less than the Roku Plus TV. The U6N has similar features but boasts a Mini LED backlight, which gives it better contrast control than the Plus Series. However, we still prefer the Roku OS over the Google TV interface that the Hisense uses.
Read our Roku Plus Series TV review.
Best 65-inch
As one might expect, bigger TVs tend to cost more than smaller ones. This is especially true if you want advanced image quality perks like local dimming and Mini LEDs. However, there are some cheap 65-inch TVs that still manage to offer wide color support, and the TCL Q65 is the best value of the bunch. The Q65 technically carries a list price of $550, but it's commonly sold for under $500 and is sometimes on sale for as low as $400.
The Q65 is available with the Google TV OS or Fire TV OS, which should suffice for most streaming needs. Those systems aren't as streamlined as the Roku interface, but they offer access to many of the same services and integrate seamlessly with an existing Google or Amazon account. Buyers who prefer a different interface can always buy a separate media player, like a Roku Ultra or Apple TV. Check out our guide to the best streaming devices for top recommendations.
Though it doesn't have local dimming like our 55- and 50-inch picks, the 65-inch Q65 does have a QLED panel with quantum dots. This enables the TV to produce the expanded color gamut needed for HDR material, which is a rare perk at this price. Its full-screen peak brightness is also decent, but since it lacks local dimming, the TV isn't able to brighten or darken specific zones on its panel. This means it's not able to control its brightness precisely enough to create deep black levels or intense specular highlights (like explosions).
So, while the Q65 can offer good HDR color performance, its HDR contrast capabilities are lacking. To get better contrast performance, we recommend stepping up to the 65-inch Hisense U6N, which usually costs between $500 and $700. But if you have a hard budget you don't want to go beyond, the TCL Q65 is the best TV under $500 at this size.
For recommendations that cost more than $500, check out our full guide to the best 65-inch TVs.
Best 70-inch
It's rare to find 70-inch TVs that sell for under $500. In fact, this entry-level Insignia model is one of the very few options that fits that bill. When viewed in this specific context, it's a solid value-forward display.
To be clear, you get what you pay for here, as this model makes some big compromises to keep its cost down. As such, we only recommend this for casual buyers who prioritize a large screen and low price above all else. The F50 replaces our previous pick in this category, the F30. The F30 is no longer available, but the F50 carries very similar specifications. It has a standard 4K LED screen that omits any extra bells and whistles like Mini LEDs, quantum dots, or local dimming.
As a result, the F50's brightness, color, and contrast capabilities are limited. The TV can't control its light output across specific areas, so black levels will appear a bit elevated in a dark room. Though the F50 can technically process high-dynamic-range (HDR) videos, it doesn't have the ability to get bright or dark enough to really showcase the benefits of HDR content. It also can't display the full range of colors that a QLED TV can.
But that doesn't mean the F50 is a bad TV. As an entry-level LED set, it can still handle 4K standard-dynamic-range (SDR) streaming material just fine, as well as typical live TV broadcasts. Thanks to its built-in Amazon Fire TV operating system, it also offers a large selection of video streaming apps, and it supports Alexa voice search through its remote.
Buyers should note that Insignia previously offered an F50 QLED model that implemented quantum dots for better color performance, but that edition is no longer sold. This new F50 only has a regular LED screen.
Ultimately, home theater fans are better off stepping down a size and paying a little more for something like TCL's Q65 QLED TV, which can deliver a nice upgrade in color. But as a casual channel-surfing display, the F50 is an affordable 70-inch option.
How we test TVs under $500
Ryan Waniata/Insider
Our guide to the best TVs under $500 was compiled using a combination of hands-on testing and research. Our team has been covering TVs and home entertainment products for more than a decade, and we use that expertise to inform our criteria and testing parameters.
To review displays, we examine a TV's clarity, HDR brightness, contrast capabilities, black-level performance, viewing angles, upscaling quality, smart TV interface speed, and extra features like voice control. To measure brightness we use test patterns from the Spears & Muncil Benchmark 4K Blu-ray disc with an X-Rite iDisplay Plus colorimeter.
But while test patterns are useful for establishing certain performance thresholds, we find that real-world content is the best barometer for seeing how a TV performs during day-to-day viewing. We use a curated selection of scenes from various movies and TV shows, focusing on sequences that put each TV's shadow detail, specular highlight, and color performance to the test. We also use a mix of sources, including 4K Blu-rays, cable TV, and streaming videos. Contenders for the best TV under $500 are evaluated in both light and dark rooms to get a sense of day and nighttime viewing performance.
For more details on our review methodology, check out our breakdown of how we test tech products.
FAQs
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Are 75-inch or larger TVs available for under $500?
Though some models do dip below $500 during limited-time TV sales, 75-inch and larger TVs typically cost over $500. For that reason, we have not included any displays bigger than 70 inches in our guide to the best TVs under $500.
If you're looking for recommendations in those larger sizes, visit our guides to the best 75-inch TVs and the best 85-inch TVs.
Are OLED TVs available for under $500?
You may have noticed that we haven't included any OLED displays in our guide to the best TVs under $500. The reason? There simply aren't any OLED TVs currently available for that amount.
In the past, smaller versions of LG's A-series OLEDs went on sale for around $500. But those models are no longer sold, and even when they were, we never saw them dip below the $500 mark.
Right now, the most affordable OLED TV is the LG 48-inch B4, which sometimes goes on sale for $600. For more OLED recommendations, check out our guide to the best OLED TVs. And head over to our QLED vs. OLED comparison for details on the pros and cons of each panel type.
Are TVs under $500 worth it?
Yes, the best TVs under $500 are worth the money, but you should be aware of certain performance limitations that are common when shopping for TVs in this price range.
First, you'll need to settle on a TV with a QLED or LED panel rather than an OLED. Second, you should expect peak brightness for models in this price range to top out at around 600 nits. Third, you should focus on models that are 70 inches or smaller. And finally, there are certain companies that tend to offer better overall value in this class.
Advanced picture quality features like quantum dots, local dimming, and even Mini LED backlights can be found on TVs for under $500, but these models are usually sold by value-oriented brands like Hisense, TCL, Vizio, Roku, and Amazon.
In our experience, quality control from these companies isn't on the same level as that from more expensive brands like Samsung, Sony, and LG. But none of the slight inconveniences we've encountered are troublesome enough to prevent us from recommending their displays.
Samsung, Sony, and LG also sell TVs for under $500, but their offerings provide worse image quality than similarly priced models from the competition. However, if you're willing to spend substantially more than $500, you can find excellent high-end TVs from those brands with better features and build quality than cheaper options.
For more TV recommendations across budgets and sizes, check out our other TV guides:
Best Buy
The Hisense U6G Android TV uses local dimming and quantum dots to deliver some of the best picture quality you can get on a budget.
Pros: 4K with every major HDR format, local dimming, quantum dots, Google Assistant voice remote, solid brightness capabilities for the price
Cons: No HDMI 2.1 ports, 50-inch model has less dimming zones than larger versions
Buying a TV on a budget typically means you have to miss out on some advanced features found on more expensive sets. The Hisense U6G totally dispels that notion, and the 50-inch model is an especially great value at under $500.
The U6G is the 2021 successor to the Hisense H8G. It carries over everything we loved about that model while keeping a similar low price. Meanwhile, our previous pick for best cheap 4K TV overall, the 55-inch TCL 5 Series, has actually gone up in price this year. The TCL is still a fantastic set but, for the money, the Hisense now edges it out.
One of the most important image features you should look for in a new 4K TV is high dynamic range (HDR). HDR enables enhanced contrast and wider colors for a more realistic picture. The U6G offers some of the best HDR specs in its price range. It also supports every major HDR format so all your bases are covered.
It's a little disappointing that the TV lacks Google's newest smart TV system, Google TV, but the older Android TV OS is still a solid performer with easy access to tons of services. Google Assistant is also supported via the included remote for reliable voice control.
I reviewed the 2020 version of this TV last year and this new model is expected to perform even better. Buyers who want more advanced features, like HDMI 2.1 for next-gen gaming, will have to pay more for the step-up U7G or U8G, but at this price, the U6G is a bargain.
Best Buy
The LG 55-inch UP7000 offers better viewing angles than most budget TVs, enabling solid picture no matter where you sit.
Pros: Wide viewing angles, affordable price for a 55-inch model
Cons: Black levels and contrast aren't great, doesn't include a voice remote
Though many of the 4K TVs recommended on this guide offer solid picture performance, they all suffer from one pesky drawback: mediocre viewing angles.
This means that colors and contrast wash out when you sit off to the side. Though that's not a problem for people who can plop down on a couch right in front of their TV, it can be an issue for buyers who have to position their seats in other parts of the room.
If viewing angles are your main priority, then the 55-inch UP7000 from LG is one of your best options on a budget. This 2021 model is the successor to our previous pick, the UN7000.
The UP7000 uses a special type of panel that's designed to offer improved off-axis picture. This lets you sit off to the side of you display without the TV's colors and contrast dramatically degrading. Picture quality will still shift a bit, but not as badly as it would on a typical LED TV.
On the downside, TVs with panels like this tend to have worse black levels and contrast than other displays. This particular model also lacks local dimming or wide color support. So, while great for viewing angles, the UP7000 doesn't have particularly good home theater performance in a dark room.
Like most LG TVs, this one offers access to many popular streaming services. HBO Max, however, is missing. Unfortunately, the UP7000 also lacks a voice remote, but you can use the TV with a separate Alexa or Google Assistant device.
The UP7000 is also available in a few larger and smaller screen sizes, but we think the 55-inch model offers the best value. Also, keep in mind that only the 75-, 65-, 55-, and 43-inch models use panels with wide viewing angles, according to Rtings.
Best Buy
The Hisense A6G is one of the most affordable 60-inch 4K TVs on the market, offering a big-picture experience for a budget-friendly price.
Pros: Big display for an affordable price, HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, voice remote included
Cons: Image quality is only average, lacks local dimming or quantum dots
Flagship big-screen 4K TVs can cost a couple thousand dollars, but that doesn't mean that budget buyers always have to settle for smaller screen sizes. In fact, there are several worthwhile big-screen models out there that don't cost an arm and a leg.
Our previous pick for this category, the Vizio 65-inch V-Series, remains an impressive TV for the money, but stock is now hard to come by and its price has increased a bit since its initial launch. With that in mind, we're recommending the more affordable Hisense 60-inch A6G in its place.
The 60-inch A6G is bigger than most TVs in its price range, and boasts a 4K screen with entry-level HDR and Dolby Vision capabilities. That should net you solid picture quality for casual viewing, but the display lacks local dimming and wide color support so you won't get the most out of HDR videos.
Android TV is integrated for easy access to most major streaming services. A voice remote is also included with built-in support for Google Assistant.
Budget buyers who favor home theater performance over size will be better off going with the smaller Hisense 50-inch U6G for a similar price, but if you want a 60-inch 4K TV in this price range, the A6G offers good value for the money.
Best Buy
It doesn't have 4K resolution or other advanced features, but the TCL 40-inch 3 Series HDTV is one of the most affordable 40-inch Roku TVs you can buy.
Pros: Very affordable, Roku TV platform with easy access to streaming apps
Cons: Not 4K, no HDR or wide color support, no voice remote, smaller screen size
The TCL 3-Series is about as basic as a smart TV can get. It's the smallest display on this list, it features a 1080p resolution screen instead of 4K, and it lacks HDR support — but when it comes to overall value for the money, the TV is still a worthy option for budget buyers.
This 40-inch smart TV uses a modest Full HD panel. While you won't be able to watch 4K HDR streams from Netflix, the reality is, most live TV content is still presented in SDR high definition. With that in mind, this 1080p screen is fine for casual viewing needs.
Overall image performance isn't as good as the more expensive TVs on this list, but at a screen size of 40 inches, it would actually be hard to see major benefits from an upgrade to 4K. The lack of local dimming is a bit more of an issue, but contrast and black levels are decent considering the low price.
While the included remote doesn't feature voice control, you can pair the TV with a separate Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device.
This definitely isn't a TV geared toward buyers looking for advanced picture quality. Instead, the TCL 3 Series is meant to appeal to people who just want a reliable 40-inch smart TV with easy access to their favorite apps. Thanks to the simple yet effective Roku platform, the 3-Series does just that.
