How to Find a Really Good Cheap Smart TV Among a Jungle of Options

Not every cheap Smart TV  is a hidden gem – some are just cheap for a reason. Finding a quality cheap Smart TV is harder than it looks, unless you know how to cut through the noise and find the really good TVs that aren't a waste of money.

5. Supported Smart TV operating systems

A Smart TV's operating system (OS) has a significant impact on the overall user experience. However, it's often overlooked in favor of flashy specs or screen size. The OS determines how smooth the interface is, how easily you can navigate between apps, and which apps are available. So before you buy that new TV, check to see which OS is being used.

You may consider Android TV the best Smart TV operating system, or you may prefer something else. Regardless, choose a vibrant app ecosystem, reliable support, and an easy-to-use interface.

Don't worry too much about the built-in operating system, though, if you want to add a streaming device. You can buy the Roku Streaming Stick Plus, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, or Google TV Streamer 4K.

4. Available ports

When evaluating a budget Smart TV, it's easy to focus on price, picture quality, and other features while forgetting something equally important: Available ports. You might not think of it first, but it's one of the key features to look for when shopping for a new TV .

The number and type of ports on a TV can have a serious impact on its versatility and future-proofing. Ports are especially important if you plan on connecting multiple devices, such as a soundbar , game console, or Blu-ray player.

At the very least, a Smart TV should have HDMI, USB, and Ethernet ports. A good rule of thumb is to look for at least three HDMI ports (even better if one supports ARC or eARC for sound system compatibility), one or two USB ports , and one Ethernet port. Other useful ports include an optical audio output or a 3.5mm headphone jack for older sound systems.

3. High Dynamic Range (HDR) support

Even when buying on the cheap, HDR support is still an important feature to look for. HDR is no longer a hot feature in 2025 or later because it directly affects the vividness and realism of content. It enhances contrast, provides brighter highlights, and produces more vibrant colors.

That's why HDR is one of the most advertised features on modern Smart TVs, including budget models. There are different formats, some of which are exclusive to high-end models, which differentiates high-end Smart TVs from basic Smart TVs.

For example, premium HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+ are only available at a certain price point. Don't expect that on a budget TV!

2. Check the brand

The brand behind the monitor can tell you a lot about what you're getting. While big names like Samsung, LG, and Sony often deliver solid performance even in their lower-end models, newer or lesser-known brands often cut corners to hit that sweet spot.

Lesser-known brands aren't necessarily bad. In fact, you'll often find lower prices from these brands than you'll find from established names like LG and Samsung.

Look for brands with a proven track record of good after-sales support, regular software updates, and quality control. When buying a new TV, a slightly higher-priced model from one of the best TV brands can save you a lot of frustration.

1. Display quality

The first thing you need to consider when buying a TV, whether it's a budget or a high-end TV, is the display specifications. For a budget Smart TV, display quality should be a top priority. After all, no amount of smart features or fancy design can make up for a blurry, grainy picture.

First, make sure the resolution is at least Full HD (1080p). Don't settle for anything less, regardless of price. This may seem like common advice, but it's surprisingly often overlooked.

While 1080p should be your baseline resolution, 4K resolution is becoming increasingly common, even in affordable models. For TVs with screens 50 inches or larger, 4K is worth the extra clarity, especially if you're sitting close by.

Panel type also matters. There are three main options: QLED, OLED, and LED . LED should be the bare minimum for a budget TV. Avoid basic LCD panels whenever possible. But if you can afford a QLED TV like the Hisense U6N or TCL Q65, go for it.

When looking at panel types, you may come across different terms depending on the brand. The important thing to remember is that they are just variations of the 3 options with some adjustments.

Choosing a good budget Smart TV means looking beyond flashy marketing and low prices. With some research and a focus on the factors discussed, you can find a budget TV that offers great value, long-term reliability, and all the features that really matter for everyday entertainment.

Marvin Fry

Update 15 May 2025