Are you searching for a top-notch TV experience without breaking the bank? Look no further! We’re presenting six of the best TVs under $550 that offer superior image quality, sleek designs, and smart features.
When researching budget televisions, factors like screen size, resolution, display type, and connectivity options, and voice assistant support must all be considered.
Here is our selection of the 5 best TVs under $550, along with their key specs.
- Best Overall: Samsung 43-inch QLED Q60A Series Smart TV
- Best Budget-Friendly: Insignia 24-Inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 1080p Fire TV
- Best 4K: TCL 50″, HDMI Smart Google TV – 55S546
- Best for Durability: LG UQ9000 (55-inch)
- Best for Gaming: VIZIO 65-inch 4K UHD LED Smart TV
$1,789.00Buy Now- 65-inch QLED HDR 4K UHD
- Premium 1 year CPS enhanced protection pack
- Wall mounting
- 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot, Dual LED, Quantum HDR, Quantum Processor 4K Lite
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 06:16 am GMT
$89.99Buy Now- 24-inch Full HD 1080p
- Fire TV
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Instant Video, Browser
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 06:12 am GMT
$379.99Buy Now on Amazon- 4K QLED Dolby Vision HDR
- 2022 model
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Pandora, Hulu, Google TV, YouTube
- 60Hz refresh rate
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 06:52 am GMT
$389.99Buy on Amazon- Built-in support for Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple AirPlay, HomeKit, and many more
- Enhance your picture and sound with AI from the a5 Gen 5 AI Processor 4K
- Find your faves fast with built-in access to Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV app, Disney plus, HBO Max, and instant access to over 300 plus free LG Channels
- Quickly point, click, scroll, or use voice control to find your favorite content faster with the LG Magic Remote
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 06:12 am GMT
$531.11Buy Now- 65-inch 4K UHD LED
- Voice remote
- Dolby Vision
- HDR10+
- Alexa compatibility
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
11/27/2023 06:12 am GMT
Best Overall: Samsung 43-inch QLED Q60A Series Smart TV
- 65-inch QLED HDR 4K UHD
- Premium 1 year CPS enhanced protection pack
- Wall mounting
- 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot, Dual LED, Quantum HDR, Quantum Processor 4K Lite
The Samsung 43-inch QLED Q60A Series Smart TV is one of the best overall televisions under $550, providing fantastic picture quality and sleek design.
Boasting over one billion colors on its QLED display screen, this television delivers lifelike visuals directly into your living room. This 43-inch 4K display delivers crisp and detailed images, while dynamic tone mapping ensures deeper blacks and brighter whites. As you enjoy shows and movies on this 43-inch 4K screen, the Quantum Processor Lite 4K works to upscale non-4K content so every scene looks its absolute best.
In addition to its outstanding picture quality, the Samsung Q60A stands out with a slim build that blends into any room seamlessly. Furthermore, its refresh rate of 120Hz makes it an excellent choice for gamers and PC users.
While the Q60A boasts impressive visuals, it does have some drawbacks. Although equipped with Q-Symphony technology, its audio quality may not satisfy true audiophiles; however, most users should find more than adequate sound without additional equipment.
This TV stands out among the best televisions under $550 by offering exceptional 4K picture quality, sleek design, and versatile features. While its audio quality may not be ideal, its overall performance and value make this an excellent option for consumers seeking an affordable yet high-quality viewing experience.
Best Budget-Friendly: Insignia 24-Inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 1080p Fire TV
- 24-inch Full HD 1080p
- Fire TV
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Instant Video, Browser
The Insignia 24-Inch is the ideal budget TV for under $550. Featuring a compact and slim design, this lightweight model makes streaming apps accessible without breaking the bank.
While not offering cutting-edge technology, this unbeatable value TV stands up against competition among its peers for an affordable television viewing experience.
At just 13.3 inches L x 21.7 inches W x 3.4 inches D without the stand and weighing only 6.2 pounds, this 24-inch LED display is lightweight and easy to transport and store. Though its 1080p resolution and refresh rate of 60Hz might seem outdated for its price point, its viewing experience still provides good entertainment value.
The Insignia F20 Series TV has an Insignia Fire TV for easy access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video. Plus, it features three HDMI and composite cable inputs so you can connect devices like VCRs to this versatile screen — perfect for connecting in children’s bedrooms! Parents will appreciate its parental V-Chip controls for added peace of mind.
Though its launch was slower than other models, the Insignia 24-Inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 1080p Fire TV remains outstanding for those searching for TVs under $550. Accessible streaming apps and user-friendly parental controls, as well as its budget-friendly price point, make this TV ideal for anyone needing reliable yet cost-efficient television.
If you’re shopping on a budget and looking for the ideal TV under $550, the Insignia 24-Inch Class F20 Series Smart HD 1080p Fire TV makes an outstanding selection. Though it might not have all of the latest features, its reasonable price makes it an exceptional value choice that offers plenty of functions that budget shoppers will find helpful.
Best 4K TV: TCL 50″, HDMI Smart Google TV – 55S546
- 4K QLED Dolby Vision HDR
- 2022 model
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix, Pandora, Hulu, Google TV, YouTube
- 60Hz refresh rate
TCL introduced the 55S546, their 55-inch HDMI Smart Google TV, an outstanding addition to 4K entertainment.
With stunning picture quality and an exceptionally responsive Roku backend, this top-of-the-line television stands out as exceptional. Measuring 25.2 inches long by 43.9 inches wide by 3.4 inches deep without its stand, the TCL 55S546 features a 50-inch QLED display with a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160p and weighs only 26 pounds without its stand. Furthermore, this sleek television provides up to 240Hz refresh rate support.
Roku Smart TV makes accessing thousands of channels and apps simple, providing access to an entertainment world at your fingertips. Furthermore, Natural Motion 240 ensures superior clarity during fast-paced action — an excellent feature for gamers looking for their next fix!
The 55S546’s QLED screen delivers immersive brightness, vibrant colors, and stunning picture quality. The AiPQ Engine uses machine learning algorithms to optimize display, guaranteeing it always looks its best! Experience seamless voice control integration via the Roku app, Siri/Alexa/Hey Google-powered smart home systems, or voice integration through Roku voice controls.
Notably, however, this TV has slightly muffled audio. Though its quality is still satisfactory, adding external speakers or a soundbar might enhance your listening experience for the full experience.
The TCL 55S546 55-inch HDMI Smart Google TV stands out as one of the finest 4K televisions currently available, thanks to its impressive QLED display, robust Roku backend, and cutting-edge features such as its cutting-edge QLED display and cutting-edge features. Don’t let audio issues stop you from enjoying all this magnificent television can provide; pair it with an excellent sound system to maximize its full potential!
Best for Durability: LG UQ9000 (55-inch)
- Built-in support for Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple AirPlay, HomeKit, and many more
- Enhance your picture and sound with AI from the a5 Gen 5 AI Processor 4K
- Find your faves fast with built-in access to Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV app, Disney plus, HBO Max, and instant access to over 300 plus free LG Channels
- Quickly point, click, scroll, or use voice control to find your favorite content faster with the LG Magic Remote
Today’s market presents a challenge when searching for the ideal balance of affordability, durability, and performance in a TV. That is why when considering TVs under $550, the LG UQ9000 (55-inch) stands out as an excellent option, mainly due to its outstanding durability.
Ideal for many households, the 55-inch size is perfect for 4K TVs; it fits easily on a stand or mounted on the wall and provides an immersive viewing experience. Priced under $550, this 4K model offers exceptional value with features like motion smoothing and over-sharpening disabled to ensure films look true to the director’s vision.
The LG UQ9000’s slim design and minimal borders around the screen add elegance to any living space. Navigating webOS is a breeze, providing easy access to popular apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Freeview Play. Switching between apps provides for an effortless user experience.
The LG UQ9000’s remote control features voice command integration so that you can quickly launch Google Assistant and Alexa. Furthermore, it supports Apple AirPlay and HomeKit — a feature rarely seen on affordable TV models. This compatibility enhances the overall usability of the TV further, making it even more appealing to those seeking TVs under $550.
Best for Gaming: VIZIO 65-inch 4K UHD LED Smart TV
- 65-inch 4K UHD LED
- Voice remote
- Dolby Vision
- HDR10+
- Alexa compatibility
The VIZIO 65-Inch 4K UHD LED Smart TV is the best gaming TV under $550 and is ideal for streaming enthusiasts and gamers alike.
Measuring 28.47 inches L x 49.06 inches W x 3.4 inches D without a stand, this 55-inch screen offers a stunning 4K resolution (3840 x 2160p) with an impressive 60Hz refresh rate and LED display for an excellent viewing experience. Although its weight may be 30.14 pounds without its stand, its LED technology still ensures optimal viewing results.
Thanks to its V-Gaming Engine, the VIZIO 65-inch Smart TV boasts impressive gaming performance. Experience extraordinary 4K upscaling and input lag times of only ten milliseconds while playing games such as Fortnite or Forza Horizons; plus, this TV under $550 includes Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast capabilities to make streaming effortless!
Though the VIZIO 65-inch TV may appear heavier and darker than some competitors, its 2,000 zones of Active Pixel Tuning compensate with optimal brightness and contrast settings for any content you watch. Furthermore, its built-in SmartCast platform is fast and reliable, allowing access to popular streaming services such as Netflix and Disney Plus.
With three HDMI ports, this flat-screen TV makes connecting multiple gaming consoles and other devices simultaneously simple and hassle-free. Although slightly thicker than average, its versatile features and top-tier specs make this an attractive investment choice for gamers and entertainment enthusiasts who desire high-quality viewing for under $550.
Take advantage of the chance to upgrade your entertainment setup with this reliable and feature-packed smart TV for under $550!
How to Pick the Best TV’s Under $550: Step-by-Step
Selecting the best TV under $550 can seem daunting with so many available choices. But, by paying attention to critical elements and understanding what to look for, you can make an informed decision and bring home the ideal television for your needs.
When selecting the right TV under $550, here are some main factors to take into account:
- Screen size
- Display technology
- Refresh rate
- Resolution
- App support
- Smart features
- HDMI and Connections
- Wall mounting
- Audio
- Extended warranties
Let’s break them down below.
Screen Size
Consider your room size and viewing distance when shopping for a television under $550. Larger screens offer more immersive experiences but take up more space, so measure your space to find an optimal screen size that works within your space and viewing preferences.
Display Technology
TVs under $550 typically come with two main display technologies: LED and OLED. LED TVs offer superior picture quality at a more budget-friendly price point, while OLED provides superior contrast and color accuracy but may be more costly. Budget-minded shoppers will find that LED TVs deliver impressive picture quality without breaking the bank.
Refresh Rate
A TV’s refresh rate refers to how often the screen refreshes the image each second. A higher refresh rate reduces motion blur, creating smoother action scenes and sports events. Look for a TV with at least a 60Hz refresh rate; look for one with 120Hz for an even superior viewing experience.
Resolution
Resolution plays a major role in picture quality. 4K TVs have become increasingly commonplace, and with an abundance of 4K content available, you’ll enjoy an even more immersive and detailed viewing experience. For TVs under $550, consider opting for 4K resolution, which offers four times the detail of Full HD.
App Support
Many budget-friendly TVs have built-in smart features, enabling you to stream content from popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Ensure the television you select supports your preferred streaming apps, so it’s simple to access what you want without needing additional devices.
Smart Features
Smart TVs provide a range of features, such as voice control, screen mirroring, and built-in apps. When shopping for a television under $550, look for an easy-to-use user interface and plenty of smart capabilities to enhance your viewing experience.
HDMI and Connections
Your television should provide multiple HDMI ports and other connections like USB and optical audio outputs to connect devices like gaming consoles, soundbars, and streaming media players. Look for a TV with at least two HDMI ports to have plenty of connectivity options.
Wall Mounting
Wall mounting your TV can save space and give it a sleek, clean appearance. Be sure that the television you’re considering is compatible with VESA wall mounts — standard for most televisions — and ensure the mount supports both the weight and size of the television you select.
Audio
Sound quality is an integral factor in your TV experience. While many TVs under $550 have built-in speakers, there may be better quality sound. Look for TVs with features like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X support to get better audio. Alternatively, consider investing in a soundbar to improve your listening pleasure further.
Extended Warranties: Save Your Money
Extended warranties can be appealing, but they’re only sometimes necessary. Most TVs come with a standard one-year warranty covering any manufacturing defects. Instead of spending extra on an extended warranty, consider investing that money in improving other aspects of your setup, such as sound quality or additional streaming devices.
What to Know Before Buying TVs Under $550
When searching for TVs under $550, it’s essential to remember that you may get only some of the bells and whistles that more expensive models provide. Nonetheless, you can still find a high-quality television that meets your entertainment requirements.
Screen size is an essential factor when shopping for TVs under $550. Generally, models in this price range have screens between 32 and 50 inches, so consider your room’s dimensions and viewing distance to ensure a comfortable experience.
Resolution is an important factor when shopping for televisions under $550. Opt for at least 1080p resolution (Full HD) to enjoy crisp and detailed images, or go all-out with a 4K (Ultra HD) TV if available within your budget, offering even greater detail and sharpness.
Next, consider the type of panel used. LED panels are popular at this price point and offer decent brightness and color reproduction. However, look for TVs with vertical alignment (VA) panels for a better contrast ratio and deeper blacks.
Smart features are becoming more and more commonplace on TVs under $550. Consider investing in a model with an integrated streaming platform like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or Google Chromecast to access popular streaming services without needing external devices.
The refresh rate is another crucial consideration when shopping for TVs under $550. A higher refresh rate, like 120Hz, provides smoother motion in sports and action scenes; however, most budget TVs have a 60Hz refresh rate which should suffice for most content types.
Finally, take into account the TV’s connectivity options. TVs under $550 should have at least two HDMI ports, a USB port, and Wi-Fi or Ethernet for internet access.
Using TVs Under $550: What It’s Like
TVs under $550 provide an enjoyable and budget-conscious option for those seeking high-quality entertainment. These TVs have features such as HD resolution and intelligent capabilities to give viewers an immersive viewing experience. Switching between channels or streaming apps is effortless due to intuitive interfaces and responsive controls.
Even when you choose TVs under $550, performance doesn’t suffer. For exceptional value, you can find well-known brands and models with vivid colors, crisp images, and clear audio. Whether binge-watching your favorite series or having a movie night with friends, these TVs provide excellent value without breaking the bank.
TVs under $550 prove that affordability and quality coexist, making them an excellent choice for any household. Furthermore, TVs under $550 are ideal for a wide range of users, from casual viewers to avid gamers. Plugging in your gaming console or streaming device with multiple connectivity options is simple and lets you jump right into the action.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Tada Images/Shutterstock.com.
