A $500 budget can get you a surprisingly capable TV in 2026, but the experience you get depends heavily on screen size and underlying display technology. Larger TVs in this price range tend to prioritize size over picture quality, while smaller models often deliver more refined performance with better contrast and color accuracy.
Because of this, the best way to approach this category is by size. Whether you’re looking for the largest screen possible or a more balanced viewing experience, the TVs below represent the strongest options currently available under $500. For most buyers, the 55-inch category offers the best balance of performance and value. This makes it a great starting point if you’re unsure which size to choose.
1. Best 75-Inch TV Under $500 — Insignia NS75-UQFL26
The Insignia NS75-UQFL26, part of the Insignia QF Series, is one of the few TVs that makes a 75-inch screen size possible within a $500 budget. At this size, the focus is primarily on delivering a large viewing area rather than advanced picture performance. If you want to explore more options, check out our full guide to the best 75-inch TVs under $500.
It uses a QLED panel, which provides better color performance compared to standard LED TVs. However, it does not include local dimming, so contrast and black levels are limited compared to higher-end models. Brightness is also moderate, making it better suited for dim or moderately lit rooms.
The TV runs on Fire TV, offering a straightforward interface with access to major streaming apps and Alexa voice control.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize screen size above picture quality.
| Insignia NS75-UQFL26 (75-inch Insignia QF) Prices | |
| Walmart.com (N/A) | Amazon.com… |
2. Best 65-Inch TV Under $500 — Hisense 65QD7QF
The Hisense 65QD7QF, part of the Hisense QD7QF series, offers a more balanced approach, combining a large 65-inch screen with solid overall performance for the price. You can also see our complete breakdown of the best 65-inch TVs under $500 for more alternatives.
It features a QLED panel, delivering improved color volume and better vibrancy than entry-level LED TVs. While it does not use Mini-LED backlighting, it still provides adequate brightness and contrast for everyday viewing.
Support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ helps improve HDR content, and the Fire TV platform keeps the user experience simple and accessible.
Best for: Buyers who want a large screen with fewer compromises than 75-inch models.
| Hisense 65QD7QF (65-inch Hisense QD7QF) Prices | |
| Walmart.com (N/A) | Amazon.com… |
3. Best 55-Inch TV Under $500 — TCL 55QM6K (Best Overall)
The TCL 55QM6K, part of the TCL QM6K series, stands out as the best overall TV under $500 thanks to its use of QD-Mini LED backlighting, which is uncommon at this price point.
This technology allows for better contrast control and improved HDR performance compared to standard LED and QLED TVs. It also supports a native 144Hz refresh rate, making it suitable for gaming and fast-moving content.
With Google TV, it offers a modern and content-focused smart experience with strong app support.
At 55 inches, this model provides the most balanced combination of picture quality, features, and price, making it the strongest choice for most users. For more top picks in this category, visit our full list of the best 55-inch TVs under $500.
Best for: Buyers who want the best overall performance under $500.
| TCL 55QM6K (55-inch TCL QM6K) Prices | |
| Walmart.com… | Amazon.com… |
4. Best 50-Inch TV Under $500 — Hisense 50QD7QF
The Hisense 50QD7QF, part of the Hisense QD7QF series, is a straightforward value option, offering solid overall performance in a slightly smaller size.
It uses a QLED panel, providing good color performance for the price. Like the 65-inch version, it does not include advanced local dimming, so contrast is more limited compared to Mini-LED TVs.
It supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and runs on Fire TV, making it easy to use for streaming and everyday content.
Best for: Buyers who want a smaller, sharper TV with reliable performance.
| Hisense 50QD7QF (50-inch Hisense QD7QF) Prices | |
| Walmart.com (N/A) | Amazon.com… |
5. Best 43-Inch TV Under $500 — Samsung QN43Q7FAAFXZA
The Samsung QN43Q7FAAFXZA, part of the Samsung Q7F series, is a practical choice for those looking for a compact TV from a well-established brand like Samsung Electronics.
It features a QLED panel, offering good color performance and consistent image quality. Like most Samsung TVs, it supports HDR10+ but not Dolby Vision.
The TV runs on the Tizen platform, which provides a smooth and responsive smart TV experience with access to major streaming apps.
At this size, it is best suited for bedrooms, small living spaces, or secondary setups.
Best for: Smaller spaces and users who want a simple, reliable smart TV experience.
| Samsung QN43Q7FAAFXZA (43-inch Samsung Q7F) Prices | |
| Walmart.com… | Amazon.com… |
Quick Buying Tips for TVs Under $500
- 75-inch models prioritize size, often with basic picture performance
- 65-inch offers a better balance between size and quality
- 55-inch is the sweet spot for performance and features
- Mini-LED provides better contrast than standard LED or QLED
- Smart platforms like Google TV and Fire TV offer the best app support
Quick Summary
In the under $500 category, your choice comes down to how you balance screen size and picture quality.
The TCL 55QM6K is the best overall option, offering the strongest performance in this price range. The Hisense 65QD7QF provides a solid large-screen experience, while the Insignia NS75-UQFL26 is the go-to choice for maximum size.
Meanwhile, the Hisense 50QD7QF and Samsung QN43Q7FAAFXZA offer practical options for smaller spaces with consistent everyday performance.
| Rank | Model | Size | Panel / Backlight | Refresh Rate | Smart Platform | HDR Support | Best For | Check Price |
| 1 | TCL 55QM6K | 55-inch | QD-Mini LED | 144Hz | Google TV | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | Best overall performance | Amazon.com… |
| 2 | Hisense 65QD7QF | 65-inch | QLED | 60Hz | Fire TV | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | Balanced large TV | Amazon.com… |
| 3 | Insignia NS75-UQFL26 | 75-inch | QLED | 60Hz | Fire TV | HDR10 | Largest screen | Amazon.com… |
| 4 | Hisense 50QD7QF | 50-inch | QLED | 60Hz | Fire TV | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | Mid-size value | Amazon.com… |
| 5 | Samsung QN43Q7FAAFXZA | 43-inch | QLED | 60Hz | Tizen | HDR10+ | Compact option | Amazon.com… |