Should I Buy Walmart’s new budget TV? Complete Guide 2026
We help you decide if Walmart’s new budget TV is the right purchase for your needs and budget
Quick Answer
Walmart’s budget ONN TV is a fantastic choice for cost-conscious buyers who want a big 4K screen for casual TV, streaming, and at-home viewing. However, if you demand HDR performance, advanced gaming features, or premium build quality, it will fall short. For most families and individual consumers on a budget, it's an easy 'yes' at this price point.
You’re on the fence about buying Walmart’s new budget TV – maybe you’ve seen the surprisingly low price and wondered if it’s too good to be true. Smart move to pause and think it through. This guide is designed to tackle your hesitation head-on: we’ll look at why these TVs are so cheap, what you’re actually getting, and whether it’s the right call for your viewing habits. We’ll cover the pros, the cons, and the factors that matter most, so you can decide with confidence. In short? It’s a strong yes for many budget buyers, but depends on your specific needs.
What is Walmart’s new budget TV?
Walmart’s new budget TV is the latest generation of the ONN brand smart TVs, sold exclusively at Walmart. The most talked-about models are the 55-inch and 43-inch 4K UHD Google TVs, which typically retail for around $228 and $198, respectively. These TVs are manufactured by third-party electronics companies (often Yangtze Optical Fibre or similar) and carry Walmart’s house brand to keep costs low. They come with built-in Google TV streaming, support for HDR10, and multiple HDMI ports, making them functionally comparable to more expensive models from TCL, Hisense, or Vizio – but without the premium price tag or feature extras like 120Hz refresh rates or Mini-LED backlighting. They are popular because they offer the essential 4K smart TV experience at impulse-buy pricing, making them one of the best-selling budget TVs in the United States.
Why the Hesitation?
So why are you hesitating? A cheap TV can feel like a trap – you might worry that a $200 55-inch TV will be washed out, slow, or falling apart after a year. Common questions include: Is the picture quality actually good enough for movies and gaming? Will it last very long? What’s the catch? Another layer of uncertainty is brand loyalty – you’ve heard of TCL and Hisense, but ONN? That’s unknown. Then there’s feature anxiety: you might feel you’re missing out on HDMI 2.1, VRR, or Dolby Vision 4K120. And of course, there are always alternative options at your local Best Buy or on Amazon – is it safer to spend $350 on a similar TCL? These are all valid concerns. Real users on Reddit are often happy with their ONN sets but report that the built-in sound is weak and the remote is basic. Some also note the TV’s software can get sluggish after a few months.
Key Reasons TO Buy
- ✓Unbeatable price: You get a 55-inch 4K TV for about the price of a pair of sneakers.
- ✓4K Google TV experience: Built-in streaming supports all major apps and voice control, no extra stick needed.
- ✓Good enough picture quality: With HDR10 and a VA panel (on most models) making colors pop for fast-moving action and movies.
- ✓Small footprint: The TV is lightweight and easy to mount with standard VESA holes.
- ✓Multiple HDMI ports: 3 HDMI inputs give room for a streaming stick, cable box, and game console.
- ✓Walmart return policy: Easy returns if you get a lemon or change your mind, giving you peace of mind.
- ✓Surprisingly good for gaming: 4K@60Hz with low input lag for casual gaming, though it lacks VRR.
- ✓Frequent sales: You can often find it even cheaper during Black Friday or Walmart’s November sales.
Key Reasons NOT to Buy
- ✗Average peak brightness: HDR looks flat in bright rooms – it’s not a great choice if you watch in daytime.
- ✗No advanced gaming features: No HDMI 2.1, VRR, or 120Hz, so next-gen console gaming at high frame rates is cut short.
- ✗Mediocre speakers: The built-in audio is thin and weak; expect to buy a soundbar.
- ✗Possible quality control issues: Some users report screen defects (dead pixels, banding) or software bugs – Walmart’s return policy helps, but it’s a hassle.
- ✗Basic remote: The remote lacks backlighting and shortcuts, but it’s usable.
- ✗No ATSC 3.0 tuner: Over-the-air broadcasts are standard 1080p only (fine for most, but a downside for cord-cutters).
- ✗Build quality: Plastic feel, stand is flimsy – not as sturdy as pricier sets.
- ✗Better value exists from TCL/Hisense: Often marked down to similar prices, offering better picture processing and reliability.
Key Factors to Consider
- →Budget: How much can you afford to spend? This TV is the cheapest way to get a big screen.
- →Room brightness: If you watch in a very bright room, you'll want a brighter TV; this one is best in medium/dark rooms.
- →Usage frequency: If you watch TV daily, investing a bit more for a better panel might give you more enjoyment.
- →Gaming requirements: Do you need 120Hz and VRR for next-gen consoles? If so, skip this.
- →Audio setup: Are you prepared to buy a separate soundbar? The built-in speakers are weak.
- →Future resale: You won't get much back if you sell it; it's a low-cost item you use and replace.
- →Alternative options: Compare with comparable TCL/Hisense on Amazon; check current pricing.
- →Smart TV platform: Google TV is well-supported and easy to use; you might prefer Roku – but you can always add a streaming stick.
- →Warranty and returns: Walmart’s return policy is lenient, making it safer to try.
- →Pairing with existing devices: Does it have the right inputs? It has 3 HDMI, fine for most.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- ?Can I comfortably afford this TV without financial stress, or will it strain my budget?
- ?Will I actually use this TV regularly, or is it an impulse buy that will sit in a corner?
- ?Have I compared it with the TCL or Hisense alternatives at a similar price?
- ?Am I buying this because it's cheap or because I genuinely need a big 4K screen?
- ?Am I okay with the lack of HDMI 2.1 and 120Hz if I'm a gamer?
- ?Do I have a soundbar or headphones to compensate for the weak speakers?
- ?Is my viewing room dark enough to hide the limited brightness?
- ?Would I be happier spending a little more for a better brand?
- ?What happens if it breaks in two years? Am I okay with the risk?
- ?Is there a chance I'll find a better deal during Black Friday or other sales?
Detailed Analysis
Walmart’s ONN budget TVs are targeted at the largest slice of the market: people who want a big screen without breaking the bank. If you’re coming from an old 720p set, even a basic 4K TV is a massive leap. The ONN delivers a sharp, colorful picture out of the box, though purists will notice the limited brightness – typical SDR content looks fine, but HDR content (like a Dolby Vision movie) won’t reach the vivid pops you’d see on premium sets. That said, for a bedroom, at night, or in a controlled basement, it’s perfectly acceptable.
Real-world usage from forums like Reddit shows that owners enjoy the TV for casual streaming on YouTube, Netflix, and sports. The Google TV interface is snappy on initial setup, but some report the UI stuttering after a few weeks – a 4K stick or Apple TV can fix that, but that’s an added cost. In gaming, the ONN works with a standard HDMI 2.0 port, offering 4K60. It has low input lag (around 15ms) which is fine for single-player, but competitive gamers will notice the lack of VRR.
When compared to clunky, used TVs found at thrift stores, the ONN is a no-brainer. But when stacked against entry-level TCL and Hisense sets (often $250-$300), the picture quality differences are small. The biggest difference is brand support – TCL has been making better TVs for longer and may offer more reliable software. However, the ONN’s price advantage is hard to ignore: you can buy a 55-inch for under $230, and with the saved money, add a soundbar or a warranty.
Long-term ownership: these TVs have a mixed but generally decent reliability record. As long as you don’t push them hard (e.g., leaving on static images for days), they last 3-5 years. Modern buyers often upgrade to a new TV every few years anyway. And since the ONN is so cheap, it’s low-risk to upgrade later. The market trend is clear: everyone is moving to budget 4K, and this TV rides that wave. Future considerations: the TV should get software updates for Google TV for a few years, but don't expect new featured additions. In terms of resale, it’s worth about half what you paid after a year – so don't buy it as an investment, buy it as a disposable item to get years of use.
Best For
- ✓First-time TV buyers who want a big screen without spending a lot.
- ✓Bargain hunters who value price over perfect picture quality.
- ✓Dorm room or apartment renters who want a temporary TV they can move easily.
- ✓Parents looking for a cheap TV for family room or playroom.
- ✓Backup or guest room TV that will not be used heavily.
- ✓Cord-cutters who mainly watch streaming services on NetFlix or YouTube.
- ✓People upgrading from an ancient 720p TV who will notice a huge sharpness jump.
Not Recommended For
- ✗Home theater enthusiasts who care about perfect blacks, HDR performance, and Dolby Vision.
- ✗Competitive gamers who need 120Hz, VRR, and low input lag for fast esports titles.
- ✗People with very bright rooms who watch a lot of daytime television.
- ✗Buyers who demand premium build quality and a well-designed remote.
- ✗Anyone who already owns a decent 4K TV and doesn't need an upgrade.
- ✗People who prefer Roku’s simpler interface (though you can add a Roku stick).
- ✗Those who expect a TV to last a decade – this one is probably more for the 3-5 year cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy Walmart’s new budget TV?
If you're on a tight budget and need a large 4K smart TV, yes. It's the best bang for the buck. But if you're an AV enthusiast or hardcore gamer, you'll be disappointed by the limited brightness and missing HDMI 2.1.
Is Walmart’s new budget TV a good buy?
For most casual viewers, absolutely. It’s an excellent value for a secondary or primary TV in a moderate-light room. User reviews consistently say it's a great TV 'for the price.' Just manage your expectations around HDR performance and build quality.
Should I get Walmart’s new budget TV or a TCL / Hisense?
If the price difference is $50 or more, go with the ONN. If a TCL or Hisense is on sale for the same price, choose that because they typically have better picture processing and reliability. Look for deals on Amazon and Walmart before deciding.
Is Walmart’s new budget TV worth buying?
Yes, if you prioritize value. You get 4K, decent colors, and smart features for a rock-bottom price. The cost-per-inch is unbeatable. But it's not an investment; it's a budget product that you'll likely replace in 4-5 years.
When should I buy Walmart’s new budget TV?
Anytime it's in stock, but prices often dip during Walmart sales on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and around major holidays (July 4th, Memorial Day). If you can wait, these events could save you $30–$50.
What should I consider before buying Walmart’s new budget TV?
Think about the room brightness, your audio setup (likely need a soundbar), and whether you'll use advanced gaming features (most won't). Also, check the return policy – Walmart's is customer-friendly, so low risk.
Who should buy Walmart’s new budget TV?
Anyone who wants a big-screen 4K TV at the lowest possible price, such as students, renters, or those upgrading from an old TV. It's also perfect for guest rooms, basements, or offices.
How good is the picture quality on Walmart’s new budget TV?
For the price, it's very good. Colors are punchy and it's bright enough for normal viewing. However, HDR is only an approximation – peak brightness lacks the pop of premium TVs. In a dark room, movies look great.
Does the Walmart ONN TV have Bluetooth?
Yes, most newer ONN 4K Google TVs have Bluetooth so you can connect headphones or a soundbar wirelessly. Always check the model specs before buying.
Does the ONN TV support Netflix and Disney+?
Yes, the Google TV platform has access to all major streaming apps, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube, and more.
Ready to Make Your Decision?
We hope this guide helped you decide whether Walmart’s new budget TV is right for you.