Best cheap TV 2023

The best cheap TV can still give you an amazing experience, but it won't cost the Earth to do so.

You can manage to find a lot of great TVs for under 500 nowadays, and that includes some that are capable of 4K resolution and decent gaming performance as well.

You'll need to decide what you want from a display when making your purchase though. You'll have to make some compromises, but you can choose one that excels in resolution, colours, latency, or just in special features if you wish.

We've scoured the market to find the best from top TV brands that can deliver on all of the above factors. We'll take a closer look at the differences, performance, and price of each as well, so you can make an informed choice and find the perfect TV for your needs and budget.

So, without further ado, let's dive into the world of affordable TVs and find the best cheap TV for you!

Best budget TVs

1. Samsung BU8500
2. LG C1
3. Samsung UE43AU7100
4. Hisense U7H
5. Sony KD-43X80K

Credit: Samsung

1. Samsung BU8500

Best cheap TV overall

Although the competition is getting tougher in the TV market, Samsung is still one of the top manufacturers around, with the Samsung BU8500 being a prime example of its expertise in the field. Available in five sizes, this budget-friendly TV boasts stunning UHD technology with Dynamic Crystal Color, giving you a billion shades and deep colours on any display size.

But that's not all. The Adaptive Audio feature uses AI to adjust the sound depending on what you're watching, allowing the TV to produce exceptional highs and lows in the heat of the action. Controlling the TV is a breeze too, with the wireless smart controller that can even transmit signals through walls from a considerable distance.

The sleek design of the device is another plus, as it means it can fit seamlessly into any room, making it a stylish centrepiece that's bound to wow with its exceptional picture quality. While it may be ultra-thin, it still houses a powerful Crystal 4K processor to ensure its final product isn't sacrificed for its look.

To top it all off, you can download apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV to catch up on your favourite shows and films via streaming services as well. Ultimately, it's one of the best budget TVs on the market in 2023, so don't hesitate to make it yours. Your eyes (and ears) will thank you.

Read More: Best 4K TVs

Credit: LG

2. LG C1

Best cheap OLED TV

OLED TVs deliver a picture quality like nothing else, with deep blacks and vibrant colours. Being one of the latest display technologies, however, it comes with a premium price tage. The LG C1 has since been dethroned as the best gaming TV by the C2, but staying a generation behind has its perks: it's much more affordable and packs an incredible amount of value.

You'll need enough space to house one, as its sizes range from 48 to 83 inches, but you're getting the same technology no matter which one you choose. The chip inside uses AI to easily adjust settings and it produces an image comparable to more expensive 4K TVs available today.

The LG C1 comes with fantastic colour calibration out of the box, so you won't need to hop in and out of the settings to create a stunning picture. It's perfect for gaming, as well, with a variable refresh rate (VRR) of up to 120fps with both NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync compatibility, helping it deliver its exceptional picture quality at 120 frames per second with a hugely impressive 0.1ms response time.

On the whole, if you're looking for a budget-friendly TV with impressive technology, the C2 is definitely worth considering.

Read More: Best 8K TVs

Credit: Samsung

3. Samsung UE43AU7100

Best cheap 4K TV

Looking for a budget-friendly TV that doesn't compromise on picture quality? Consider the Samsung UE43AU7100. With tons of first-rate reviews, this low-price 4K TV is making 4K more readily available to everyone.

To add to its stunning 4K, this TV includes a Dynamic Crystal and Contrast Enhancer. This helps make colours pop and contrast sharper, resulting in a clearer, more vibrant image that's close to if not better than some of the more expensive options on the market.

What's more, the processor of this TV adjusts the sound level depending on the content you're watching, giving you optimal audio every time. And you have the option of pairing it with a Samsung Soundbar that will give you a Q-Symphony experience, making it feel like you're in a cinema rather than you're living room.

Sure, you might notice some mild colour compression if you compare it to more expensive TVs, but it's nothing that'll make you want to throw your remote at the screen.

With such a wide variety of sizes to choose from as well, we really do think this Samsung TV is hard to beat considering its price tag.

Read More: Best Panasonic TVs

Credit: Hisense

4. Hisense U7H

Best cheap gaming TV

When it comes to cheap TVs, Hisense is the place to go. In fact, its U7H, in particular, is one of the cheapest 4K options available, with sizes ranging from 55 to 85 inches.

But don't let the low price fool you - the U7H boasts impressive gaming features, including 4K/120Hz for a stutter-free yet visually stunning experience, and four HDMI ports that support VRR. The Dolby Vision technology also helps the TV provide realistic image quality, and the addition of Dolby Atmos is designed to make the sound more immersive for a cinema-like experience at home.

Additionally, it features HDR10+ support, allowing it to produce a full-colour range, even in scenes with only bright or dark elements, resulting in subtler gradients and more detail.

So, if you're primarily interested in gaming, this Hisense device is worth checking out. With all of its impressive features and budget-friendly price points, it's a great option for gamers who want to enjoy the latest titles in high quality without breaking the bank.

Read More: Best TVs for PS5

Credit: Sony

5. Sony KD-43X80K

Best cheap TV under 500

Finding a good quality TV under 500 can be a real headache. But don't worry, we've got you covered. Sony's award-winning KD-43X80K is an excellent option to consider that's crucially priced around the 500 mark.

This TV is available in six different sizes, but if you're on a budget, the 43-inch version is the one you'll want to check out. Despite its size, it offers a wide viewing angle and can be comfortably watched from a distance.

Performance-wise, it boasts a special X1 processor and 4K HDR that produces a clear and smooth image, with over a billion colours that make the picture feel lifelike and vibrant to look at, especially with TRILUMINOS PRO technology.

It also comes with Google Smart TV and Assistant, so you can easily access all your favourite apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, and HBO Max, from the touch of a button. Moreover, the TV supports Airplay 2, allowing you to easily stream from your Apple device.

There's definitely a lot to like about this Sony device, hence its inclusion here. With a powerful processor, 4K resolution, and smart features, it's definitely worth checking out to upgrade your home setup.

Read More: Best TVs for Xbox Series X

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Still struggling to find the right TV? Or wondering whether you should buy a new TV in the first place? We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions below to help you decide...

Are cheap TVs worth buying?

While some people may be sceptical about cheap TVs, it's important to recognise that this is more of a stereotype these days than fact. It's true that there are many poor-quality, cheap TVs on the market, but with a bit of research, you can find a good TV at an affordable price.

You won't find the absolute best 8K quality on a budget yet, but there is an abundance of great 4K options to consider, most of which are packed full of technology to improve your viewing experience.

As a result, a cheap TV is definitely worth buying in our opinion. Just make sure you assess its specs and reviews to ensure what you're buying is good enough for your needs.

Are non-smart TVs cheaper?

Yes, non-smart TVs are generally cheaper than smart TVs. This is because smart TVs have additional features such as internet connectivity, built-in apps, and advanced processors, which contribute to their higher costs.

By contrast. non-smart TVs usually only come with basic features such as HDMI ports, USB ports, and antennas, and are designed for those who only need to watch TV shows or movies through traditional cable or satellite channels.

However, it's important to note that smart TVs have become increasingly popular, and the price gap between smart and non-smart TVs has narrowed in recent years, meaning you don't necessarily have to break the bank to pick up a cheap smart device.

When is the best time to buy TVs?

Believe it or not, TV prices can fluctuate depending on the season. If you're looking to save money, the best time to buy is typically in the first few months of the year, particularly January and February.

Retailers often offer discounts on TVs during this time, and prices tend to go up later in the summer. Another good opportunity to purchase a TV at a discounted price is during Black Friday sales.

However, if you're in need of a new TV, don't hesitate to pick one up as you can usually find some amazing deals all year around.