Budget TVs no longer lack in features and technology like they used to, with brands such as Samsung, Hisense, and Xiaomi all offering some amazing wallet-friendly options. In fact, the best cheap 4K TV these days would have cost hundreds if not thousands just a few years ago, which means top-of-the-line picture quality is more accessible than ever in 2023.
However, with so many TVs on the market, finding the right one can be tricky at times. So, to help you navigate the options, we've put together a list of the best TVs on a budget to help you find the right screen to upgrade your current setup to something cheap but packed full of amazing technology.
For example, these TVs all come equipped with built-in smart features that provide access to streaming and multimedia applications like Netflix and Youtube, as well as regular terrestrial television. Additionally, they offer exceptional picture quality with 4K resolution and HDR10 or above delivering outstanding brightness, contrast, and colours.
As a result, the TVs we've listed below really stand out from the crowd thanks to the aforementioned features, their user reviews, and their inexpensive price tags. So, with the stage set, let's get into our list of the best cheap 4K TVs...
Best budget 4K televisions
1. Samsung AU7100
Best cheap 4K TV
The Samsung AU7100 is one of the best cheap TVs around thanks to its simple design and inexpensive price, making it a great option for those looking to enter the world of 4K without breaking the bank. It's available in a range of sizes up to 85 inches, if you don't mind paying a little more for a cinema-like experience. Given that bigger entries cost more, the 43, 50, and 55-inch options are our primary focus for this entry.
Generally speaking, the AU7100 features LED backlighting and delivers full 4K quality. It also supports HDR10, HLG, and HDR10+, providing a wide range of colours that rivals some of its more expensive competitors. You also get three HDMI ports, with one supporting eARC, allowing you to connect one of the best soundbars for improved audio quality.
Moreover, it comes with a range of smart TV features, powered by Samsung's Tizen system, which has an extensive selection of apps, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Now TV, YouTube, Rakuten, Apple TV, and Disney+. You can even connect an Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control the TV, providing added convenience from the comfort of your sofa if you misplace the remote control.
On the whole, the Samsung AU7100 stands out as one of the best cheap 4K TVs on the market. Its sleek near bezel-less screen teamed with its impressive picture and smart features makes it well worth considering to upgrade your current setup.
2. TCL RP620K
Best cheap 4K TV for gaming
The TCL RP620K is a Freeview 4K TV available in sizes ranging from 43 inches up to 65 inches. No matter which size you choose, this TV offers great value for money thanks to some impressive specs.
Firstly, it comes with four HDMI 2.0 ports, two USB ports, an ethernet port, an optical port, terrestrial, cable, satellite inputs, and a CI slot - that's a lot of connectivity options for all your consoles and gaming peripherals. What's more, it features a slim frame to help it blend perfectly into the background of your living room, kitchen, office, or bedroom.
Picture-wise, this TCL TV features HDR10+ and even supports Dolby Vision, providing greater depth, incredible contrast, and a wider range of colours with dynamic metadata carrying 12-bit colour depth and 10,000 nits of brightness.
If that wasn't enough, this is a Roku TV, meaning you can access apps like Netflix, Disney +, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, Apple TV, and more without an external streaming device. Of course, Freeview Play makes it easy to access a wide range of terrestrial television shows live, but who doesn't need catch up from time to time? All in all, a very impressive TV for the price.
3. Hisense A6H
Best cheap 4K TV with HDR10+
Like our previous entries, the Hisense A6H is an impressive 4K TV that shouldn't break the bank with its price tag. It's available in a range of sizes, including a 43-inch model and a huge 75 inches. As you’d imagine, the prices go up depending on which TV you get. Therefore, when it comes to a budget option, we'd say the 55-inch model or below is a good place to start.
The TV has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports, and three HDMI ports, including an HDMI ARC/HDMI eARC port for improved sound quality when connecting a soundbar.
Also, the Hisense A6H supports various HDR formats, such as HDR10 and HLG, and includes Dolby Vision for improved HDR capabilities and colour range. Coupled with the 4K resolution, the TV will no doubt showcase your favourite shows and video games in immense quality.
What's more, you get a Google TV interface with access to popular apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV, providing you with all the tools you need to stream and catch up on all the latest programmes. Ultimately, this Hisense TV is an excellent budget option to consider.
4. Xiaomi F2 Fire TV
Best cheap 4K TV with Amazon Fire interface
The Xiaomi F2 Fire TV offers an inexpensive option for those looking for a 4K TV with built-in Amazon Fire Stick features.
It comes in three sizes, with full access to Bluetooth 5.0 and AirPlay for streaming from non-Amazon sources. The TV also has four full HDMI ports and two USB outlets so you can hook up various accessories and peripherals.
As touched on, it utilises the Amazon Fire TV interface, providing access to every app available on the service, including Netflix, Amazon Prime TV, and Disney+. It would even fit nicely in a smart home as it's compatible with Alexa voice control.
In terms of the picture, its HDR10 and HLG high dynamic range means every image on the 4K screen is rendered with stunning contrast, brightness, and colour, with the latter helped by its wide colour gamut. So, as far as budget 4K TVs go, this Xiaomi option is definitely worth checking out.
5. Toshiba UK31
Best cheap 4K TV with picture presets
The Toshiba UK31 offers a wide range of sizes, including 43 inches, 50 inches, 58 inches, and 65 inches, all for a relatively inexpensive price. Although cheap, it still provides Dolby Vision, HDR, and HLG for an impressive colour experience, making movies, TV shows, and video games pop off the screen.
It also features Alexa built-in, allowing for easy control of the TV from anywhere in the room. Moreover, you get a ton of smart options with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video being just two of the wide range of streaming apps available.
While there are no special gaming modes, the TV can still serve gaming purposes well by pushing any device that outputs at 4K 60Hz to the limit. There are also several picture presets to choose from, including Natural, Cinema, Sports, Game, and Dynamic, with Natural and Cinema being two of the go-to options.
It may not come with all the bells and whistles that some of its more expensive competitors provide. However, we think this Toshiba UK31 delivers a lot for its price tag, making it great for those seeking a large 4K TV with impressive colour quality.
Cheap 4K TV FAQ
Is a cheap 4K TV worth buying?
The value of a 4K TV depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you're tightening your purse strings and are looking for a TV with 4K resolution, a cheap 4K TV may be worth considering. However, it's important to keep in mind that a lower-priced 4K TV may not have the same picture quality, colour accuracy, or features as a more expensive model.
For example, a cheaper 4K TV may have a lower refresh rate, which can lead to motion blur and a less smooth viewing experience. It may also have lower brightness and contrast levels, which can affect the overall picture quality.
That said, there are some budget 4K TVs that offer great value for the price, and, as shown by our list, some even come packed with features that help them rival some of their more expensive competitors. Therefore, it's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you are getting the best possible TV for your budget.
Is a non-smart 4K TV cheaper?
Yes, a non-smart 4K TV is generally cheaper than a smart 4K TV. Smart TVs have additional features, such as built-in Wi-Fi and streaming apps, that add to the overall cost. If you don't need these features or already have an external streaming device (such as a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick), then a non-smart 4K TV may be a more cost-effective option for you.
Many 4K TVs come with smart features built-in as standard these days, so finding a non-smart 4K TV may be difficult. Also, the price difference between a smart and non-smart 4K TV may not be significant as you might think. Therefore, it might just be more beneficial to go with a smart TV for the convenience of the additional features. Ultimately, it's important to weigh the pros and cons and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
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