Best TV Under $500 in 2026: Budget 4K TVs Researched & Ranked
You don't need to spend a fortune for a great 4K TV. We researched the best budget options under $500 to find the top picks for movies, streaming, and casual gaming.
Our Top Budget TV Picks Under $500
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Our Top Budget TV Picks Under $500
Hisense A6 Series 65"
65" | 4K | 60Hz | Dolby Vision | Google TV
$513
65-inch price
The Hisense A6 Series is the best big-screen value for most buyers near the $500 mark. For around $513, you get a massive 65-inch 4K screen with Dolby Vision support, a feature usually reserved for TVs costing twice as much. Google TV provides excellent streaming app support and voice search.
Pros
- + Largest screen for under $400
- + Dolby Vision HDR support
- + Google TV with Chromecast built-in
- + Game Mode for reduced input lag
- + Voice remote with Google Assistant
Cons
- - 60Hz only (no 120Hz for gaming)
- - Basic local dimming
- - Average motion handling
- - Narrow viewing angles
Best For:
Living rooms, casual streaming (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+), buyers who prioritize screen size over premium features. Perfect as a main TV for households that don't need gaming-specific features.
$512.99 on Amazon
TCL S4 55"
55" | 4K | 60Hz | HDR10 | Google TV
$370
55-inch price
The TCL S4 is a strong value at around $370 for the 55-inch 4K model with Google TV built-in. Picture quality exceeds expectations for a budget TV, and the smart TV features are identical to TVs costing far more.
Pros
- + Strong value 4K with Google TV
- + Solid 4K picture quality
- + Google TV with all major apps
- + Voice remote included
- + Reliable TCL brand quality
Cons
- - 60Hz only
- - Basic HDR (HDR10 only, no Dolby Vision)
- - Thin, tinny speakers
- - Limited brightness for HDR content
Best For:
Guest rooms, bedrooms, dorm rooms, secondary TVs, or anyone who wants a solid 4K TV without breaking the bank. Also great for apartments or first-time TV buyers on a tight budget.
$369.94 on Amazon
Budget TV Specs Comparison
| Specification | Hisense A6 65" | TCL S4 55" |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $513 | $370 |
| Screen Size | 65 inches | 55 inches |
| Panel Type | LED | LED |
| Resolution | 4K Ultra HD | 4K Ultra HD |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| HDR Support | Dolby Vision, HDR10 | HDR10 |
| Smart Platform | Google TV | Google TV |
| Game Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Large Room Value | Ultimate Budget |
Budget TV Buying Guide: What to Expect Under $500
What You Get Under $500
- 4K Resolution: Even budget TVs now offer true 4K (3840x2160) - a huge upgrade from 1080p TVs of a few years ago.
- Smart TV Features: Google TV or Roku built-in with access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, and more.
- HDR Support: Basic HDR10 support at minimum, with some models offering Dolby Vision.
- Large Screens: 55" to 65" screen sizes are common at this price point.
What You Won't Get Under $500
- 120Hz Refresh Rate: Budget TVs are limited to 60Hz. Not ideal for competitive gaming.
- Local Dimming: No advanced backlight zones for better contrast.
- OLED/QLED: Premium panel technologies start at $800+.
- HDMI 2.1: No 4K/120Hz gaming support for PS5 or Xbox Series X.
- Low Input Lag: Gaming response time is adequate but not great.
Screen Size Guidelines
55" TVs (~$229)
Viewing distance: 7-9 ft
Best for: Bedrooms, apartments, smaller living rooms
65" TVs (~$349)
Viewing distance: 8-11 ft
Best for: Living rooms, family rooms, larger spaces
Budget TV vs. Mid-Range: Is Upgrading Worth It?
Consider spending more ($500-$900) if you:
- + Play video games regularly (need 120Hz, lower input lag)
- + Watch a lot of HDR content (need better brightness)
- + Have a bright, sunny living room (need higher peak brightness)
- + Care about audio quality (budget TVs have weak speakers)
Bottom line: If you primarily stream Netflix and watch cable TV, a budget TV under $500 is perfectly adequate. Save your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best TV under $500 in 2026?
Is a budget 4K TV worth buying?
What size TV can I get for under $500?
Are cheap TVs good for gaming?
TCL vs Hisense: Which budget brand is better?
Final Verdict: Which Budget TV Should You Buy?
Our Recommendation
For most big-screen buyers, the Hisense A6 Series 65" around $513 is our top pick. You get the largest screen, Dolby Vision support, and Google TV, an unbeatable combination near this price.
If you need a TV for a smaller room or want to spend less, the TCL S4 55" around $370 delivers solid 4K picture quality with the same Google TV platform.