Finding the best smart TV can be challenging with the endless options available, especially if you’re trying to stay within a budget. From affordable, entry-level models to premium high-end screens, this guide covers the top 10 smart TVs in a range of budgets, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect TV for your needs. Whether you’re looking for the best picture quality, an immersive audio experience, or a smart interface with easy streaming access, we have you covered.
1. TCL 3-Series Roku TV (Under $300)
The TCL 3-Series is an excellent entry-level smart TV, perfect for those who want the essentials at a great price. With a compact design and the Roku operating system, it provides a straightforward and smooth user experience.
- Resolution: 1080p HD
- Screen Sizes: 32” – 43”
- Key Features: Roku OS, simple remote, built-in Wi-Fi
- Pros: Easy to use, budget-friendly, compatible with popular streaming apps
- Cons: Limited to HD resolution, basic sound quality
2. Hisense A4 Series HD TV (Under $300)
For another affordable choice, the Hisense A4 Series offers an Android TV experience at a competitive price. This model supports Google Assistant, enabling hands-free control and easy search capabilities.
- Resolution: 720p or 1080p HD
- Screen Sizes: 32” – 40”
- Key Features: Android TV, Google Assistant, Chromecast built-in
- Pros: Voice control, built-in Chromecast, easy app integration
- Cons: Limited picture quality, not suitable for large rooms
3. Insignia F30 Series Fire TV Edition (Under $400)
The Insignia F30 Series provides a solid smart TV experience with Amazon’s Fire TV platform. With Full HD resolution and access to Alexa, it’s a convenient choice for those invested in Amazon’s ecosystem.
- Resolution: 1080p Full HD
- Screen Sizes: 32” – 55”
- Key Features: Fire TV OS, Alexa voice control, HDMI ARC support
- Pros: Affordable 4K option, hands-free control with Alexa
- Cons: Limited color range, lower refresh rate
4. Vizio V-Series (Under $500)
Vizio’s V-Series smart TVs offer great value in the budget range, featuring 4K resolution and Dolby Vision HDR. This series delivers impressive picture quality for its price, making it ideal for movie lovers on a budget.
- Resolution: 4K UHD with HDR10 and Dolby Vision
- Screen Sizes: 43” – 75”
- Key Features: Vizio SmartCast, Dolby Vision HDR, Chromecast built-in
- Pros: Impressive HDR performance, value for money, wide range of screen sizes
- Cons: Interface can be slow, moderate motion handling
5. Samsung TU7000 Crystal UHD (Under $600)
The Samsung TU7000 Crystal UHD is a popular choice for those seeking a quality 4K TV without breaking the bank. It has vibrant color reproduction and an intuitive Tizen OS that offers a wide variety of streaming apps.
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- Screen Sizes: 43” – 85”
- Key Features: Tizen OS, PurColor technology, HDR10+
- Pros: Great color accuracy, intuitive interface, many screen size options
- Cons: Limited viewing angles, average refresh rate
6. LG UP8000 Series 4K TV (Under $700)
The LG UP8000 offers excellent value for those looking for reliable 4K resolution and LG’s WebOS platform. With vivid picture quality and low input lag, it’s a solid choice for both movie buffs and casual gamers.
- Resolution: 4K UHD with HDR10
- Screen Sizes: 43” – 86”
- Key Features: WebOS, AI ThinQ, Bluetooth Surround Ready
- Pros: Smooth WebOS interface, good for gaming, wide viewing angles
- Cons: Limited HDR performance, lacks Dolby Vision
7. Sony X80J (Under $800)
For enhanced picture quality, the Sony X80J with its 4K resolution and Triluminos display offers a bright and realistic image. This TV runs on Google TV, making it convenient for accessing apps and using Google Assistant.
- Resolution: 4K UHD with HDR10 and Dolby Vision
- Screen Sizes: 43” – 75”
- Key Features: Google TV OS, Triluminos Pro display, Dolby Atmos audio
- Pros: Accurate color, built-in Chromecast, voice-activated Google Assistant
- Cons: Lacks HDMI 2.1, limited for advanced gaming features
8. Samsung Q60A QLED (Under $1000)
Samsung’s Q60A is a mid-range option for those interested in Quantum Dot technology for richer colors and brighter displays. The QLED panel offers vibrant images that are great for both day and night viewing.
- Resolution: 4K UHD QLED with HDR
- Screen Sizes: 32” – 85”
- Key Features: QLED technology, Dual LED, Adaptive Picture
- Pros: Excellent color quality, good brightness, thin design
- Cons: Limited viewing angles, lacks advanced gaming features
9. LG C1 OLED TV (Under $1500)
The LG C1 is one of the top picks in the premium category, offering an OLED screen that delivers incredible black levels and contrast. This model is popular with cinephiles and gamers alike, thanks to its sharp picture quality and low input lag.
- Resolution: 4K UHD OLED with HDR10 and Dolby Vision
- Screen Sizes: 48” – 83”
- Key Features: OLED display, HDMI 2.1, Game Optimizer
- Pros: Superior picture quality, fast response time, excellent for gaming
- Cons: Higher price, risk of burn-in with static images
10. Sony A90J OLED (Premium Option, $2000+)
For a truly top-of-the-line experience, the Sony A90J OLED combines stunning visuals with Sony’s unique image processing for a natural and immersive viewing experience. With support for Google TV, Dolby Vision, and HDR, this TV is designed to impress.
- Resolution: 4K UHD OLED with HDR10, Dolby Vision
- Screen Sizes: 55” – 83”
- Key Features: Google TV OS, Cognitive Processor XR, Acoustic Surface Audio+
- Pros: Outstanding picture quality, high-end design, powerful processor
- Cons: Expensive, potential burn-in risks for static content
Conclusion
Selecting the right smart TV depends on your preferences and budget. If you’re looking for affordability with great value, options like the TCL 3-Series and Hisense A4 provide essential features at a low cost. Mid-range options like the Samsung Q60A and Sony X80J add better image quality, while premium choices like the LG C1 and Sony A90J offer breathtaking visuals for a cinematic experience.