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Discover affordable 4K smart TVs that deliver impressive performance without breaking the bank.
In a world where big-screen entertainment is essential, finding a great TV under $500 feels like striking gold. Whether you're upgrading your living room setup, outfitting a bedroom, or grabbing a secondary screen for the garage, budget TVs in 2025 pack more punch than ever with 4K resolution, smart features, and vibrant colors—all at prices that won't dent your wallet.
Why does this category matter now? Streaming services dominate our viewing habits, and with rising costs everywhere else, savvy shoppers demand value. These TVs balance size (43-55 inches), picture quality, and smart capabilities like Google TV or Roku, making them ideal for cord-cutters and casual viewers alike.
Our selection criteria are rigorous: We prioritized real-world performance from lab-tested models, focusing on brightness, contrast, color accuracy, gaming features (like VRR and low input lag), and user reviews from sites like RTINGS and Amazon. All picks are 2025-available models under $500, covering different sizes, brands, and use cases—from everyday binge-watching to light gaming.
Expect diversity: From QLED powerhouses to compact gems, we include top picks across price tiers ($200-$500), blending trusted names like TCL and Hisense with alternatives like Vizio and Insignia.
The TCL Q6 stands out as the ultimate all-rounder under $500. Its QLED panel delivers vibrant colors and solid contrast, while Dolby Vision and 120Hz refresh rate make movies and games pop. With Google TV integration, it's perfect for seamless streaming.
For rock-bottom prices without skimping on quality, the Hisense U6N shines. Mini-LED backlighting boosts brightness and contrast far beyond basic LEDs, ideal for well-lit rooms. It's a steal for entry-level 4K viewing with full app support.
Samsung's CU8000 earns our Editor's Choice for its premium feel on a budget. Crystal UHD processing yields sharp, dynamic images with excellent upscaling for non-4K content. Tizen OS is intuitive and packed with apps, making it a smart daily driver.
Vizio's V-Series offers unbeatable bang for your buck in a larger size. Solid 4K performance with Dolby Vision HDR and built-in Chromecast make it versatile for movies and casting. It's reliable for everyday use without unnecessary frills.
Movie buffs will love the LG UR9000's cinematic prowess. Active HDR and filmmaker mode preserve director intent with accurate colors and deep blacks. webOS is snappy, supporting major streaming services effortlessly.
Gamers on a budget rejoice with the TCL S5's gaming chops. Auto Game Mode delivers low lag (under 10ms) and VRR support, paired with Roku's simple interface for quick Netflix-to-Fortnite switches. Great colors for the price seal the deal.
Alexa integration makes the Insignia F50 a no-brainer for Prime members. Fire TV OS provides voice search and seamless shopping, with decent 4K visuals for sports and shows. It's widely available and backed by Best Buy.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
TCL 55-inch Q6 Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Google TV (2025 Model) Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | N/A | Check price |
Hisense 50-inch U6N Series Mini-LED 4K UHD Smart TV (2025 Model) Rank #2 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A | Check price |
Samsung 43-inch CU8000 Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV (2025 Model) Rank #3 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | N/A | Check price |
Vizio 55-inch V-Series 4K UHD Smart TV (2025 Model) Rank #4 | — | N/A | Check price |
LG 50-inch UR9000 Series 4K UHD Smart TV (2025 Model) Rank #5 | — | N/A | Check price |
TCL 55-inch S5 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV (2025 Model) Rank #6 | — | N/A | Check price |
Insignia 55-inch F50 Series 4K Fire TV (2025 Model) Rank #7 | — | N/A | Check price |
