Discriminating TV enthusiast recommends top 5 TV models priced under $500 for optimal viewing experience currently available
Affordable TVs Under $500: Top Picks for 2022
Looking for a new TV but don't want to break the bank? We've got you covered! TV experts have recommended the top 5 affordable TVs under $500 for 2022, featuring models from TCL, Panasonic, and Roku. These TVs offer a fantastic balance of value, features, and visual performance.
- TCL QM6K QD-Mini-LED TV
This TV is praised for its excellent picture quality, support for every HDR format, and the Google TV platform with over 10,000 apps. The TCL QM6K Mini-LED TV offers a rare balance of features and visual performance rarely found under $500. It's just bright enough for the average living room and comes with Google TV baked right in. You can grab it on Amazon for $497, a discount from its original price of $599.
- Panasonic W95A Mini-LED TV (55-inch)
If you're a gamer, the Panasonic W95A Mini-LED TV is a great choice due to its 144Hz refresh rate and four HDMI 2.1 ports. It also features dynamic sound and mini-LED technology, merging performance with an affordable price after price drops. However, its UI can be relatively cluttered, and navigation can be sluggish at times. The 55-inch model is available at Amazon for $479, a significant discount from its original price of $1,299.
- Roku Plus Series QLED TV (65-inch)
This set offers Dolby Vision, a bezel-less design, and a 60Hz refresh. It's one of the best value 65-inch TVs under $500, with Roku’s extensive free content ecosystem. The Roku Plus Series QLED TV comes with quantum dot-color and features Roku's user-friendly software. You can find it at Best Buy for $499, a discount from its original price of $649.
- TCL Q651G
Identified as the best widely available cheap TV by RTINGS, the TCL Q651G produces a wide color range but has muted colors and moderate HDR performance. It's suitable for less bright rooms. Although it lacks local dimming, it's still a solid choice for those on a budget.
- TCL S5 (Entry-level)
Ideal for casual viewing or secondary rooms, the TCL S5 comes with good color gamut and Amazon Fire TV with Alexa. However, it has limited brightness and no local dimming. The 43" and 50" sizes are available.
These selections reflect expert reviews emphasizing value, app ecosystems, color performance, and gaming-friendly features within a $500 budget. While OLEDs and higher-end HDR brightness typically exceed this price point, these models offer the best balance for affordability and quality.
The TCL QM6K QD-Mini-LED TV and Roku Plus Series QLED TV are excellent choices for individuals seeking an affordable TV that combines lifestyle, technology, and entertainment features, offering value and an expansive app ecosystem for less than $500. The TCL QM6K Mini-LED TV, featuring Google TV, boasts impressive picture quality and support for every HDR format, while the Roku Plus Series QLED TV offers Dolby Vision and Roku's user-friendly software.
