The 5 best 40-inch TVs for quality viewing that won’t disappoint
By Elizabeth WallaceOct 20, 2023
Have a smaller space but still want to enjoy quality picture? Our round-up includes the best 40, 43 and 48-inch TVs for every space, budget and style.
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Upgrade your at-home movie nights with the best TVs under $500
On a budget and need to upgrade your TV? For less than £500 you can snap up a new Samsung, Roku or LG model, without compromising quality. Shop now.
Compare TVs under $500 | ||||||||||||
LG 55” Class UQ75 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV | TCL50" Class 5-Series 4K UHD QLED Dolby Vision HDR Smart Roku TV | Roku 55" Class Select Series 4K Smart RokuTV | VIZIO D-Series 40" Class 1080p Full-Array LED HD Smart TV | Hisense 55" 4K UHD Smart Google TV | Samsung 50" Class CU8000 Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV (2023) | |||||||
Price You save $30 (7.50%) $369.99$399.99 | Price $268 | Price You save $50 (14.29%) $299.99$349.99 | Price You save $10 (5.56%) $169.99$179.99 | Price You save $30 (9.38%) $289.99$319.99 | Price $449.99 | |||||||
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Consumer ratings 4.5 stars out 5 at Best Buy | Consumer ratings 4.2 stars out of 5 at Walmart | Consumer ratings 4.8 stars out of 5 at Best Buy | Consumer ratings 4.4 stars out of 5 at Target | Consumer ratings 3.9 stars out of 5 at Amazon | Consumer ratings 4.5 stars out of 5 at Samsung | |||||||
| Specifications | ||||||||||||
Screen size (in) 55" | Screen size (in) 50" | Screen size (in) 55" | Screen size (in) 40" | Screen size (in) 55" | Screen size (in) 50" | |||||||
Smart? | Smart? | Smart? | Smart? | Smart? | Smart? | |||||||
Resolution 4K | Resolution 4K | Resolution 4k | Resolution 1080p | Resolution 4k | Resolution 4k | |||||||
Screen type LED | Screen type QLED | Screen type LED | Screen type LED | Screen type LED | Screen type LED | |||||||
Pros & cons
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Whether you’re a movie buff, sports fanatic or a binge watcher, we can all agree that a good quality TV is essential.
And purchasing one is a big deal.
Luckily, there’s no need to empty your wallet to bring home a stunning screen with all the bells and whistles.
If you’re ready to upgrade your entertainment system without breaking the bank, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’re diving into the world of the best TVs under $500. That’s right, our editors have rounded the top contenders that deliver real bang for your buck.
Sit back, relax and prepare to discover the ultimate budget-friendly TVs that will take your viewing experience to the next cinematic level.
Read more: Find the best portable air conditioners to cool your home
Shop the best TV deals under $500
Best-rated TV under £500
Screen size: 55 inches
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
Display type: LED
Pros & Cons
Vibrant display screen
4K screen resolution
WebOS integration
Some users report issues with WiFi connectivity
Screen brightness could be improved
It’s easy to get lost in the magic of this spacious 55-inch display with 4K UHD resolution. Perfect for movie nights, gaming marathons or catching up on your favorite soap opera, every visual comes to life with incredible clarity and stunning details.
We don’t just love the visual vibrancy, though.
It’s also a smart tech companion that opens a universe of possibilities.
Thanks to WebOS, LG’s smart TV platform, you’ll have access to streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu and Youtube within just a few clicks of your remote. Plus, with built-in WiFi capability, it’s easy to browse the web, stream content without disruption and remain plugged into your digital world.
With a 4.5 star average rating from nearly 800 reviewers on BestBuy, users praise the immersive audio and visual experience that transports you into the heart of the action.
Best 4K option
Screen size: 50 inches
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
Display type: QLED
Pros & Cons
Responsive user interface
Roku integration
Budget-friendly
Additional accessories needed for sound quality enhancement
Requires app download for voice control
This bad boy is here to take your entertainment to a whole new level.
But first things first: let’s talk about the visuals.
Every detail pops with crystal-clear clarity, and the colors? They’re vivid and lifelike, thanks to the dazzling power of QLED Quantum Dot technology.
But it doesn’t stop there.
This TCL TV is a true 4K HDR champion, supporting Dolby Vision HDR for an even more immersive experience. This means mind-blowing contrast and depth and no more washed-out scenes.
And let’s not forget about the smart interface.
With Roku built in, you have instant access to streaming apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, Netflix and Disney+. This TV puts the power in your hand and makes navigating through your entertainment options a thrill.
Best Smart TV for less
Screen size: 55 inches
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
Display type: LED
Pros & Cons
Stunning 4K resolution
Built-in Roku platform
Features Dolby Audio
Limited picture mode options
One user reported TV overheated
As another Roku TV on our list, this flatscreen adds a touch of modern functionality and ease to any space.
Not only is this TV Smart, but it’s also easy to use. There’s no need to waste any time searching for your favorite shows and movies when they’re just a click away.
And in terms of visuals, this screen is all about jaw-dropping picture quality.
With its 55-inch screen and stunning 4K resolution, every detail will be crystal clear and super sharp.
The best part? It's an affordable 4K TV that doesn’t compromise your budget or quality.
Best 40-inch model
Screen size: 55 inches
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
Display type: LED
Pros & Cons
Budget-friendly
HDMI-capable
Apple AirPlay and Chromecast functionality
Some users report delayed response
No Bluetooth capability
If you’re looking for a 40-inch TV that provides bang for your buck, this is it.
The VIZIO D-Series 40-inch fits seamlessly into any living or bedroom. This LED TV is equipped with a backlight to ensure uniform brightness and enhanced contrast so that you can focus on what matters the most — the content on the screen.
With built-in Smart TV functionality, gaining access to the world of streaming options couldn’t be any easier. The intuitive platform also allows you to navigate and discover new shows and movies to binge-watch.
Delivering crystal-clear visuals and seamless streaming is just what this device does.
And it doesn’t hurt that it comes in a stylish and affordable package: you just can’t beat the price.
Best 55-inch TV for gamers
Screen size: 55 inches
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
Display type: LED
Pros & Cons
Ideal for gaming consoles
Bluetooth capability
4K UHD resolution
Some users have reported issues with screen color fading
This one is for our sports and gaming fanatics.
The Game Mode Plus and Sports Mode settings provide ultra-fast refresh rates and low latency, allowing for optimal gaming and smooth viewing experiences. And as a Google TV, you can easily streamline your favorites across all your devices, too.
Its impressive 55-inch screen and 4K resolution paired with an immersive audio experience, puts you directly in the heart of the action. You can also easily cast your favorite content from your phone thanks to its built-in Chromecast functionality.
Additionally, easy accessibility to multiple HDMI ports, USB ports and built-in WiFI make this TV ideal for gamers. Just plug and play.
Best budget option from Samsung
Screen size: 50 inches
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
Display type: LED
Pros & Cons
Features built-in voice assistance
Surround sound audio technology
Built-in Gaming Hub
Some users report issues with WiFi connectivity
Lacks local dimming feature
As a leading tech company, it is widely known that Samsung does not disappoint when it comes to offering quality products at affordable prices.
This TV is no exception. The possibilities really are endless with this model.
It’s built to enhance any content streamed on the screen thanks to its Crystal Processor. This technology effortlessly enhances colors and sounds so you can experience all content as if what you’re watching was originally created in 4K.
It’s also important to note that it features Samsung’s Gaming Hub integration, so you can game without a console. Pretty cool, right?
Featuring a sleek and modern frame, the SlimDesign perfectly complements any space so that you can transform your living room into a cinematic home entertainment setup. The 50-inch screen size ensures a captivating viewing experience allowing you to upgrade your home entertainment setup for less than £500 — a miracle if we ever saw one.
What to know before buying a TV
What’s the difference between an LED TV and a 4K TV?
Are all 4K TVs the same?
Which TVs under $500 get our stamp of approval?
After careful consideration, we’ve narrowed down the top contenders for the best TVs under $500. These TVs combine stunning visuals, smart features and great value. Here are our top three recommendations:
LG 55” Class UQ75 Series: This LG TV stands out with its impressive picture quality and smart features. Its stunning visual vibrancy and 4K resolution deliver an impressive experience. The webOS platform offers a user-friendly interface and easy access to popular streaming apps, making it a fantastic choice for both movie nights and binge-watching sessions.
Samsung 50" Class CU8000: This Samsung TV catches our attention with its sleek design and versatile features. Its crystal UHD display produces sharp details and creates a captivating viewing experience.
TCL50" Class 5-Series 4K UHD: This device gets our vote as the best QLED TV under $500. The flatscreen will blow your mind with crystal-clear clarity and vibrant colors, all thanks to the incredible power of QLED Quantum Dot technology.
When it comes to the best TV under $500, these choices will serve you well. Whether you prioritize picture quality, user-friendly interfaces or overall value, each of these TVs offer exceptional performance and features that will elevate your entertainment setup.
Prices updated on 07/25/2023. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.
Written by
Jada Bowman
Jada Bowman is an Atlanta-based freelance writer. Through her work, Jada aims to make the lives of her readers better by guiding them toward the most exceptional products and lifestyle choices.
Specialized topics
Bathroom
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