Best TVs For Gaming Under $500 In 2024 

If you are a serious gamer and you are looking for the best TVs for gaming under $500 or less that you can find, we will lead you to a few of the top-rated choices based on customer reviews and what they rate as the best. Just like many gamers, when it comes to choosing a television, you want to make sure that not only will it be good for watching your favorite shows and movies but also a great selection for your gaming habits.

Features that you will find are our sizes that go from 32 inches and larger. These sizes can easily be mounted on a wall in the optimizing space. Other features will be full HDTVs, at least 1080p resolution for a clear and crisp picture as well as 4K, excellent speakers, USB ports as well as HDMI ports, built-in Wifi for connecting to internet services, a great refresh rate that can pretty much handle your gaming needs. With that being said, now let’s check out some of the best that fall under your price range that is on the market today.

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Quick Look At The Our Top Picks

In terms of the best TV for gaming under $500, our selection boasts exceptional quality and excellent features that set them apart from other options in the market. We have meticulously picked each TV to guarantee that you can discover the ideal one that meets your requirements and likes.

Best TVs For Gaming Under $500

A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Right TV Stand for You

Today’s televisions are slimmer, more stylish, and more powerful than ever before. With so many options available, choosing the right TV can be overwhelming. That’s why our team has put together a comprehensive TV buying guide to help you understand everything you need to know. A modern TV is a must-have in any home, and even entry-level models surpass the best sets from the past. There are a number of important factors to consider when buying a TV, such as a refresh rate, high dynamic range (HDR), soundbar options, OLED vs. QLED technology, and built-in streaming apps. To help you choose the best TV for your viewing experience, we have compiled all of this information in a single guide.

Different Types of Televisions

Televisions come in various screen types and technologies, allowing you to choose the best one that suits your viewing preferences. The screen type influences the cost, resolution, picture quality, viewing distance, and other essential features of a TV. Here are the main TV types that homeowners can consider:

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)

LCD TVs are lightweight, thin, and the most common type of TV. They replaced cathode-ray televisions in the mid to late 2000s. Although they are now more affordable, they consume more power and provide a less clear image compared to other TVs with more advanced screen technology. The lower image quality is due to their poorer contrast ratio and color gamut.

LED (Light Emitting Diodes)

LED TVs are often used together with or instead of LCD TVs. The backlight of an LCD TV is lit using diodes in an LED TV. LED TVs have been available for nearly as long as LCD TVs and can be thought of as TVs that use LCDs for their lighting capabilities.

There are three main configurations of LED-backlit TVs:

Full-array: Full-array LEDs offer the best lighting experience for a “traditional” LED TV. In this model, the LEDs are evenly distributed behind the entire TV screen, providing a uniform backlight and better local dimming.

Edge-lit: In an edge-lit LED TV, the LEDs are placed around the edges or perimeter of the screen instead of an even distribution behind the entire screen. Some models may have LEDs on the left and right sides, top and bottom, or around the entire screen. Edge-lit models are ultra-thin, but some spots on the screen may appear brighter than others.

Direct-lit: LED TVs with a direct-lit display has a similar design to full-array LEDs but with fewer LEDs evenly distributed behind the screen. The drawback of this design is that the LEDs cannot be controlled separately, leading to inconsistent brightness and color. Direct-lit LED TVs are slightly thicker than full-array or edge-lit models and are typically budget or low-end options on the market.

OLED

Organic Light-Emitting Diode, or OLED, is a technology used in TVs that are based on the standard LED TVs. The difference is that OLED TVs use emissive pixels instead of transmissive pixels, which don’t require a separate light source. This results in a longer lifespan and reduced power consumption. The benefits of OLED TVs include quick response time, great brightness and contrast, excellent viewing angle, and compatibility with battery-powered devices. However, some OLED TVs may have durability issues and are difficult to view in direct sunlight.

QLED

Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode, or QLED, is another technology used in TVs that also builds upon LED TV technology. QLED TVs have a backlight system that produces a brighter picture than a standard LCD TV. They use quantum dots that emit their own colored light when activated by an external light source. QLEDs are thicker than OLEDs but provide a brighter picture and better contrast ratio, making them ideal for rooms with a lot of direct sunlight.

4K UHD

4K UHD, or Ultra-High Definition, refers to the resolution of a TV. 4K TVs have a resolution that is four times that of traditional HD displays and have a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels or around 8.3 million pixels. To fully enjoy a 4K-capable display, it is recommended to have a TV that is at least 55 inches or larger. While more 4K content is available now than five years ago, not all content is available in 4K UHD. This includes movies, video games, TV shows, and other media. Next-gen gaming consoles such as the Xbox Series X and Playstation 5 can play 4K UHD media.

Key TV Features

The features available in a TV can range from limited entry-level models to extensive high-end models. Here’s an overview of some crucial features often found in TVs:

Screen Size

Entry-level TVs generally have a minimum screen size of 32 inches, with some models being as small as 24 inches (referred to as mini TVs). A 40 or 55-inch TV is popular in many households, with a 55-inch TV being suitable for a living room and a 40-inch TV fitting a bedroom. TVs with a screen size of 65 inches or more are bulkier and pricier but offer a superior viewing experience in large spaces. Note that screen size is measured diagonally, making the dimensions of the TV longer than the advertised screen size. Bigger usually means better, depending on the display technology used.

Smart TVs vs. Standard TVs

Most TVs sold online are considered smart TVs, meaning they have built-in software and access to streaming platforms and apps, while standard TVs don’t have any built-in software. The main distinction between smart and standard TVs is that a smart TV can connect to the internet via Wi-Fi, while a standard TV cannot. With a smart TV, you can easily watch movies, TV shows, and other media through popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Roku, Amazon Prime Video, etc.

Resolution

The term “resolution” refers to the number of pixels on a TV screen that create the display. A common resolution for low to mid-range high-definition TVs is 1920×1080, also known as 1080p. The more pixels a TV has, the clearer and more vivid the image will be. 4K UHD TVs, with a resolution of 3840×2160, have nearly twice the resolution of full HD and three times that of standard HD (720p). To fully experience the brilliance of 4K resolution, a TV should be at least 55 inches or larger. If a smaller screen size is desired, a 1080p resolution is sufficient.

HDR

High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology aims to deliver a lifelike image with enhanced contrast, brightness, and color. HDR-capable TVs can present images with a wider range of color and brightness compared to non-HDR models. To stream HDR content on an HDR-capable TV, a fast internet connection of 15-25 Mbps is required.

Viewing Angle

TV manufacturers recommend viewing the TV from a certain angle and distance for the best image quality. However, the image may become distorted or inaccurate when viewed from the side. OLED TVs have a wider viewing angle of 70 degrees from the center, compared to 20 to 40 degrees for LED or QLED TVs.

Sound

The sound quality of TVs has become a secondary concern for manufacturers as picture quality improves. Modern TVs have limited space for built-in speakers, and some models may only have two speakers. To achieve an immersive home theater experience, a separate sound system, such as a soundbar or surround sound, is recommended.

Inputs and Outputs

Smart TVs still come equipped with multiple inputs and outputs for connecting various electronics, even with the advancement of wireless connectivity. Standard TVs also have limited connections. The inputs and outputs can be found on the side of the TV.

The typical inputs and outputs found on televisions include:

• Multiple HDMI ports, including the HDMI ARC port
• An Ethernet port for a hardwired internet connection
• A digital coax audio input
• A USB port
• RF (Radio Frequency) inputs
• Stereo sound inputs/outputs

In addition, other features such as the remote control design, wall mount compatibility, and bonus cables included by the manufacturer can also impact a TV’s overall functionality and versatility. Many modern smart TVs also have Bluetooth compatibility, enabling users to connect different devices wirelessly.

When purchasing a TV, it can be challenging to choose from the wide array of options available. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive buying guide to make it easier for you to make an informed decision. Televisions have come a long way in terms of design and technology, and now, a high-quality TV is an indispensable part of every household. Today’s options are much better than the best sets from the 90s and early 2000s, even the low-end models. To simplify your search, it’s important to understand key features such as the refresh rate, HDR, soundbar options, OLED vs. QLED technology, and built-in streaming apps.

Different types of TVs with varying screen types and technologies are available to meet your viewing preferences, including LCD, LED, OLED, QLED, and 4K UHD. Each of these screen types has its own set of pros and cons, and the cost, resolution, picture quality, viewing distance, and other features vary. In our buying guide, we offer an in-depth description of each TV type, including LCD, LED, OLED, QLED, and 4K UHD, to help you select the best TV that fits your needs and provides an optimal viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main features to consider when purchasing a 4K TV under $500?

When purchasing a 4K TV under $500, the main features to consider include the panel technology (IPS or VA), screen size, HDR compatibility, smart TV functionality, and audio quality. Other features to consider are the refresh rate, connectivity options (HDMI, USB, etc.), and the brand’s reputation for support and software updates.

Can a 4K TV under $500 deliver a good viewing experience?

A 4K TV under $500 can deliver a good viewing experience, especially for budget-conscious consumers. While these TVs may not have all the high-end features of more expensive models, they still offer 4K resolution, which provides a much clearer and more detailed picture compared to Full HD. With good panel technology, HDR compatibility, and good color accuracy, a 4K TV under $500 can provide a decent viewing experience.

How does a 4K TV under $500 compare to a Full HD TV in terms of picture quality?

A 4K TV under $500 provides a significant improvement in picture quality compared to a Full HD TV. With four times the resolution of Full HD, 4K TVs offer much more detail, clarity, and a more lifelike image. Additionally, 4K TVs often have better color accuracy and more vibrant colors, making the overall viewing experience more enjoyable.

What are some recommended 4K TV brands under $500?

Some recommended 4K TV brands under $500 include TCL, Hisense, and Vizio. These brands offer a good combination of features and performance for the price and have a reputation for good customer support and software updates. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews and do research before making a purchase to make sure the TV meets your needs and budget.