Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, people are advised to stay indoors, resulting in an increase in TV watching. However, the economic downturn has left many Americans struggling financially. Consequently, many are searching for inexpensive television deals to purchase a new or additional set. Fortunately, it’s possible to acquire a secondary or primary television at a lower cost than anticipated, allowing you to relocate your existing TV to another area in your home.
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Here are some things to keep in mind as you review my selections:
The TVs featured below may be older, but we are currently working on new reviews for 2022 models in this price category and plan to publish them later in April or May. Most of the series presented below come in various sizes, with the majority costing under $500. We will highlight the size we consider to be the best value for money, which usually means a larger screen.
If you’re searching for a particular size, take a look at our comparisons for 32-inch, 43-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch TVs.
If you don’t see what you’re searching for below, take a look at all the TVs I have evaluated, with more to come in the near future.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Optimal Screen Size at a Reasonable Price
TCL 65S425/65S421 (65-inch)
Roku is our preferred smart TV platform for streaming apps and services like Netflix, especially when it comes pre-installed on the TV. Although the TCL 4-Series falls short of the 6-Series (refer to below section) in terms of image quality, as its 4K resolution and HDR compatibility do not enhance picture or color, it still provides an impressive viewing experience for the majority of viewers, particularly at this price point.
Additional sizes priced below $500 include 55-inch, 50-inch, 43-inch, and 40-inch. Check out the review for TCL 65S425. Currently available at Walmart for $428.
The Vizio V655-G9 (65-inch), with Google Chromecast and Apple AirPlay, is an excellent option for those who want to stream content from their phones onto their TV. While the V-Series comes in several sizes under $500, this model stands out due to its large screen size. However, it should be noted that there are variations in picture quality across Vizio models. For a better overall choice, the TCL Roku TV is recommended.
Sizes other than $500: 60-inch, 55-inch, 50-inch, 43-inch, 40-inch (please note that certain sizes may not be available at several retailers).
Go through our review of Vizio V655-G9.
Available at $468 on Walmart. Get the best price alerts with AirPlay and Chromecast.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Top choice for Alexa voice control
Toshiba 49LF421U19 (49-inch)
Sizes 32-inch
TV Technology LED
Smart TV Yes (Fire TV)
Resolution 720p
HDMI Ports 3
Equipped with Amazon’s Fire TV system, the Toshiba is a direct rival to TCL’s Roku system. Generally, Roku is preferred over Fire TV due to superior menus and search capabilities. However, the Toshiba stands out with its embedded Alexa smart features, which can be accessed through the remote by voice command – a feature that the TCL lacks.
Sizes below $500 include: 65 inches, 55 inches, 50 inches, 40 inches, and 32 inches.
Check out our review of the Toshiba 49LF421U19.
It can be purchased for $251 at Best Buy.
Sarah Tew/CNET
Top affordable smart TV
TCL 32S325 (32-inch)
When it comes to small-sized TVs, smart TV is always the way to go. At this price point, purchasing a separate Roku streamer can cost significantly more – and having to manage multiple remotes is a hassle. Therefore, if you need a 32-inch TV that meets your viewing needs, we recommend this as the best affordable option.
For video viewing, this TV with a 720p resolution is suitable for its screen size. However, if you plan to use your TV additionally as a computer monitor, we suggest investing about $20 more in the 1080p version, specifically model 32S327 (credit to tjmile1 for the suggestion).
Sarah Tew/CNET
Better If You Can Spend An Extra $50
TCL 55R625 (55-inch)
2019
Our preferred midrange TV for its value, the TCL 55-inch model was recently on sale for under $500 but has since increased to $550 in price. Regardless, it remains an exceptional deal, boasting effective full-array local dimming that results in a truly outstanding picture. Additionally, the Roku smart TV operating system is unequivocally our favorite.
Check out the review of the 2019 Roku TV TCL 55R625.
Currently priced at $550 on Amazon, you may want to consider spending an additional $50 for the best deal.
If you’re planning to purchase a new TV, it’s important to keep in mind that even at $500, it can still be a significant investment. Here’s a brief rundown of some additional information that may be helpful.
New TV models are now available, however, as TVs are generally a developed technology, using an “outdated” model is acceptable. In my perspective, the bigger the TV, the better. Large TVs are currently more affordable and it’s more worthwhile to spend money on large screen sizes instead of just a slight improvement in picture quality. If you aren’t satisfied with the built-in smart TV system, you could easily incorporate a media streamer. They are economical, uncomplicated to operate, and are updated more frequently in comparison to most smart TVs. Take a look at our recommended media streamers. Due to the fact that built-in speakers typically have low quality, it is wise to combine your new set with a soundbar or another sound system. Decent soundbars commence at approximately $100. Check out the top-rated soundbars.
