Best Budget Tv Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Navigating the world of budget televisions can feel like a minefield, but finding a set that delivers fantastic performance without emptying your wallet is entirely possible. After putting numerous models through their paces in our testing lab, we’ve found that the market is brimming with high-value options. Our top pick, the Hisense 55E6QTUK 4K UHD Smart TV, consistently impressed us. It strikes the perfect balance between price and performance, offering AI-enhanced picture quality with its Hi-View Engine and Precision Colour technology that makes visuals pop. For UK buyers seeking the best bang for their buck, this TV is an unbeatable all-rounder.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Budget Tv Uk

#1 Hisense 55E6QTUK 4K UHD Smart TV – Ideal for: All-Around Family Viewing

Upon unboxing and setting up the Hisense 55E6QTUK 4K UHD Smart TV, we were immediately struck by its premium feel, which belies its budget-friendly price point. The setup process was refreshingly simple, especially for those with Wi-Fi, allowing us to get straight to testing. The picture quality is where this TV truly shines. The Hi-View AI Engine and Precision Colour technology work in harmony to produce a vibrant, crisp, and remarkably lifelike image. We tested it with a variety of 4K content, and the 4K Direct Lit display delivered deep blacks and brilliant colours from edge to edge, making every scene feel immersive. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted that the display quality was on par with much more expensive models. The AI Smooth Motion feature also performed admirably, keeping fast-paced sports and action sequences fluid and clear, which is a huge plus for gaming and movie nights. We connected a Nintendo Switch and were impressed by the lack of input lag, a sentiment echoed by a user who praised its beautiful performance with their console. While the built-in sound is adequate for casual viewing, we found it a little thin for a cinematic experience, a minor issue that some users also pointed out. Pairing it with a soundbar, however, elevates the audio to match the stellar visuals. The inclusion of the Freely platform is a forward-thinking touch, providing seamless access to live and on-demand content over the internet.

#2 Samsung DU8070 75″ 4K Smart TV – Perfect for: A Cinematic Living Room Experience

If you’re looking to make a statement in your living room without a flagship price tag, the Samsung DU8070 75″ 4K Smart TV is a formidable contender. The first thing we noticed was its sheer size, complemented by the incredibly thin AirSlim design that gives it a sleek, modern aesthetic. The picture quality, powered by the Crystal Processor 4K and Dynamic Crystal Colour, is genuinely impressive. During our tests, colours appeared vivid and lifelike, and the 4K upscaling handled lower-resolution content with skill. This sentiment was shared by numerous users who described the graphics and colour as “brilliant.” The Tizen-powered Smart Hub is fast and intuitive, consolidating streaming apps and the Gaming Hub into one easy-to-navigate location. We found it effortless to jump into cloud gaming services without needing a console, a fantastic feature for casual gamers. The Object Tracking Sound Lite technology provides a decent sense of audio directionality, though for a screen this large, an external sound system is still recommended to achieve a truly cinematic feel. Setup was straightforward, and the inclusion of two remotes—one standard and one solar-powered—is a thoughtful touch that many users appreciated. While most of our experience was positive, it’s worth noting that some users have reported receiving units with physical defects, so it’s wise to inspect the TV carefully upon delivery.

#3 Samsung 43 Inch CU7100 UHD HDR Smart TV – Suits: Smaller Spaces & Bedrooms

The Samsung 43 Inch CU7100 UHD HDR Smart TV proves that you don’t need a massive screen to get a fantastic viewing experience. This model is a perfect fit for bedrooms, kitchens, or smaller living rooms. During our testing, we were impressed by the snappy performance of the user interface; navigating menus and launching apps was instantaneous, a significant upgrade from older smart TVs as noted by several users. The 4K Crystal Processor does an excellent job of upscaling content, delivering a picture that is sharp, with rich colours and deep blacks. The PurColour technology really makes the visuals pop, and we found the overall image quality to be outstanding for this price point. Many users agreed, praising the “excellent picture colour quality.” While some mentioned the build feels a bit lightweight, we found it perfectly adequate, especially if you plan to wall-mount it. The Adaptive Sound feature is a nice touch, automatically adjusting the audio to suit what you’re watching. We found the built-in speakers surprisingly capable, a view shared by one user who felt no need for an additional soundbar. The inclusion of two remotes adds to the convenience. However, it’s worth noting that long-term reliability can be a concern, as a couple of users experienced hardware failures after about a year of use.

#4 Hisense 58 Inch VIDAA Smart TV 58A6KTUK Dolby Vision – Best for: Streaming Movie Nights

The Hisense 58 Inch VIDAA Smart TV 58A6KTUK Dolby Vision is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to build a home cinema on a budget. We found the setup to be incredibly simple and quick, taking just minutes to get connected and tuned. The standout feature during our hands-on testing was the picture quality. Thanks to the Direct Full Array backlighting and Dolby Vision support, this TV produces a remarkably crisp, bright image with impressive contrast. We watched several Dolby Vision-enabled films and were struck by the enhanced detail in both dark and bright scenes. This was a common theme among users, with many calling the picture “superb” and a significant step up from their older TVs. The VIDAA smart platform is clean and easy to navigate, offering quick access to all major streaming services like Netflix and Disney+. The included voice remote worked well, making it easy to search for content. While the picture is excellent, we did find that the out-of-the-box colour settings needed a little tweaking to get just right, a sentiment echoed by one reviewer. The sound quality is also a strong point; we were pleasantly surprised by how loud and clear the audio was, and many users agreed that a soundbar isn’t strictly necessary for everyday viewing. For its price, this 58-inch set offers an immersive experience that’s hard to beat.

#5 TCL 55PF650K 55-inch 4K Smart LED TV – Ideal for: Fans of the Fire TV Ecosystem

For those already invested in the Fire TV ecosystem, the TCL 55PF650K 55-inch 4K Smart LED TV is a natural and excellent choice. Integrating Fire TV directly into the television creates a seamless and familiar user experience. We found the interface to be responsive and easy to navigate, with Alexa voice control working flawlessly for searching content and controlling smart home devices. The picture quality, for the price, is stunning. The 4K HDR and Dolby Vision support delivered visually stunning colours and impressive contrast during our movie marathon tests. One user rightly compared its visual punch to that of a much more expensive OLED TV. While the display is fantastic head-on, we did notice, as did another user, that the viewing angles are somewhat limited, with colours washing out when viewed from the side. This is a common trade-off in this price bracket but worth considering for wider living room setups. The Dolby Atmos support provides a surprisingly immersive soundscape from the built-in speakers; we were impressed with the audio depth and clarity. However, some users have noted that the software can be occasionally slow and that some apps, like BBC iPlayer, have had compatibility issues that were later fixed with updates. Despite these minor software quirks, this TCL TV represents amazing value for money.

#6 Hisense 43E77NQTUK 43 Inch 4K QLED Smart TV – Perfect for: Budget-Conscious Gamers

The Hisense 43E77NQTUK 43 Inch 4K QLED Smart TV is a standout model that brings premium QLED technology to a very accessible price point. The moment we powered it on, the difference was clear. The Quantum Dot Colour technology produces exceptionally bright and vivid colours that make the picture leap off the screen. We found the 4K image to be incredibly clear and well-defined, a sentiment shared by many users who were “really impressed with the quality.” This TV is also a solid choice for gamers. With features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) over its HDMI 2.1 ports, we experienced smooth and responsive gameplay when hooking up our consoles. Setting up the TV was a breeze, and the VIDAA operating system is straightforward, with a good selection of apps and the handy ability to control the TV via a phone app. The modern, bezelless design also gives it a sleek look that fits well in any room. The main drawback we encountered, which was also noted by several users, is the sound quality. While it gets plenty loud, it lacks bass and can feel a bit thin. For the best experience during movies or gaming, we strongly recommend pairing the Hisense 43E77NQTUK 43 Inch 4K QLED Smart TV with an external soundbar to fully complement its fantastic visuals.

#7 Hisense 65 Inch 144Hz QLED Gaming TV 65E7KQTUK PRO – Suits: Competitive Console Gaming

For gamers looking for a competitive edge without breaking the bank, the Hisense 65 Inch 144Hz QLED Gaming TV 65E7KQTUK PRO is an absolute game-changer. The 144Hz Game Mode PRO, complete with VRR and Freesync Premium, delivered an incredibly smooth and tear-free experience when we tested it with a high-end gaming PC and an Xbox Series X. The difference is palpable, with fast-paced action looking sharper and feeling more responsive. Many users specifically bought this TV for gaming and praised how it made their consoles look “sharper, smoother or deeper.” Beyond gaming, the picture quality is phenomenal for the price. The Quantum Dot Colour technology produces a bright, punchy image, and the Dolby Vision IQ intelligently adapts the picture to the lighting in your room, which we found worked very effectively. Another standout feature that surprised us, and many other users, was the built-in sound system. The audio is powerful and clear, with a dedicated subwoofer providing a level of depth rarely found in TV speakers. One user even noted it was awesome enough to make them watch most things without their external surround sound system. While the TV excels in performance, we did find one user report of a rear panel vibration at high volumes, which they resolved with some simple DIY measures. Overall, this TV offers phenomenal value, especially for the gaming community.

#8 Toshiba 50QF5D53DB QLED 4K Smart Fire TV – Best for: Enhanced Onboard Audio

The Toshiba 50QF5D53DB QLED 4K Smart Fire TV makes a strong case for itself by focusing on both visual and audio excellence. The QLED panel delivers over a billion shades of colour, and in our testing, this translated to a picture that was vivid and precise. Watching 4K HDR content with Dolby Vision was a treat, with bright highlights and deep blacks adding a cinematic feel. Several users were highly impressed with the picture quality, noting it was very sharp and better than expected for a budget model. Where this TV truly sets itself apart from its peers, however, is the audio. The sound system, engineered by Onkyo and featuring Dolby Atmos with a built-in subwoofer, is exceptional for an integrated solution. We found the sound to be rich and full, eliminating the immediate need for a soundbar, a point one user happily confirmed. The Fire TV platform is another plus, providing a snappy and intuitive interface with Alexa voice control built-in. However, the TV’s performance is heavily reliant on a stable internet connection; we noticed, as did some users, that the system can become slow and laggy with a weak Wi-Fi signal. While most experiences are positive, there have been isolated reports of technical faults developing over time, such as boot loops or pixel issues, so long-term reliability could be a potential concern.

#9 Sony BRAVIA KD-43X75WL 43 Inch 4K HDR Smart LED TV – Ideal for: Brand-Loyal Viewers Seeking Quality

For those who trust the Sony name for quality, the Sony BRAVIA KD-43X75WL 43 Inch 4K HDR Smart LED TV does not disappoint. From the moment we set it up, the premium feel was evident. The picture quality, driven by Sony’s X1 Processor and enhanced with Dolby Vision, is simply superb. Content is analysed in real-time to produce a bright, colourful, and incredibly detailed image that we found to be a cut above many competitors in this size category. One user aptly noted that the picture was better than their son’s more expensive TV. The Google TV interface is a major highlight, offering a clean, organized, and content-rich experience with access to a vast library of apps and services. We also found the sound from the X-Balanced Speaker Unit to be surprisingly robust for a slim TV, delivering clear dialogue and decent bass. Gamers will appreciate the inclusion of Auto Low Latency Mode via HDMI 2.1 and a dedicated Gaming Menu. While the performance is top-notch, the design feels a little basic; we, along with one user, felt the stand feet could be more substantial. It’s also critical to inspect this TV on arrival, as several users reported receiving units with cracked screens, indicating potential issues in shipping and handling. Despite these concerns, if you receive a good unit, you’re getting Sony’s renowned quality in a compact and high-performing package.

#10 Samsung 50″ QLED Q7FA 4K Smart TV – Perfect for: A Bright, Colourful Picture

The Samsung 50″ QLED Q7FA 4K Smart TV is a fantastic option for those who prioritize a vibrant and punchy picture. Leveraging Quantum Dot technology, this TV achieves 100% colour volume, and during our testing, the results were undeniable. The image was incredibly bright with rich, saturated colours that truly stand out, making it great for viewing in well-lit rooms. The Q4 AI processor does a commendable job with 4K upscaling, ensuring that even older content looks sharp and detailed. We found the Tizen operating system to be quick and easy to navigate, with all the essential streaming apps readily available. Several users praised the excellent picture and sound quality right out of the box. The Object Tracking Sound Lite feature adds a nice layer of immersion, with audio that appears to follow the action on screen, though as with most slim TVs, a soundbar will provide a more impactful experience. The setup process is straightforward, but it does require signing into a Samsung account to access all the features, which some users found a bit frustrating. One minor design element we noted, along with a user, is the use of wide-set feet for the stand, which may require a larger TV unit compared to a central pedestal stand. Overall, this is a solid QLED offering that delivers a stunning visual experience.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

When you’re shopping for a budget TV, it’s easy to get lost in technical jargon. Focus on these key areas to make the best choice:

• Screen Size and Resolution: For most living rooms, a 50- to 65-inch screen is a great starting point. In the budget category, 4K (Ultra HD) resolution is now standard and offers a significantly sharper picture than 1080p. Don’t settle for less.
• Panel Technology: Most budget TVs use standard LED-backlit LCD panels. However, you can now find QLED (Quantum Dot LED) models at lower prices. QLED TVs, like some of the Hisense and Samsung models on our list, offer brighter images and a wider range of colours.
• Smart TV Platform: The operating system determines your user experience. Look for platforms like Google TV, Fire TV, Tizen (Samsung), or VIDAA (Hisense). Test them if you can, but most are intuitive and offer all major streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
• Connectivity (HDMI Ports): Ensure the TV has enough HDMI ports for your devices (e.g., soundbar, games console, Blu-ray player). Look for at least three. If you’re a gamer, an HDMI 2.1 port is a huge bonus as it supports features like 4K at 120Hz and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).

Understanding HDR on a Budget TV

HDR, or High Dynamic Range, promises brighter highlights, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colours. Nearly every budget 4K TV will claim to support HDR formats like HDR10, HLG, and even Dolby Vision. However, performance can vary wildly. Budget TVs often lack the peak brightness and local dimming capabilities of their premium counterparts. This means that while they can *read* the HDR signal, they may not be able to display the full impact of it. Look for TVs with Direct Lit or Full Array backlighting, as they offer better contrast control than edge-lit models, which helps improve HDR performance. A QLED panel will also generally provide a better HDR experience due to its higher brightness levels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t fall into these common traps when buying a budget TV:

• Ignoring Sound Quality: Manufacturers often cut corners on built-in speakers to keep costs down. A TV can have a stunning picture, but if the audio is thin and tinny, your viewing experience will suffer. Read reviews about the sound and budget for a soundbar if necessary.
• Obsessing Over One Specification: A high refresh rate (like 144Hz) is great for gaming, but if the TV has poor colour accuracy or contrast, it’s not a good trade-off. Look for a balanced set of features that suits your primary use case.
• Forgetting About Viewing Angles: If you have a wide seating arrangement, a TV with poor viewing angles will look washed out to anyone sitting off-centre. This is a common issue with VA-type LCD panels found in many budget TVs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best TV you can buy for under £500 in the UK?

Based on our testing, models like the Hisense 65 Inch 144Hz QLED Gaming TV 65E7KQTUK PRO offer incredible value just over the £500 mark, but if you need to stay strictly under, options like the Hisense 55E6QTUK 4K UHD Smart TV or the Toshiba 50QF5D53DB QLED provide fantastic 4K QLED picture quality, robust smart features, and good performance for well under the £500 threshold.

Which budget TV brands like Hisense or TCL are reliable?

Brands like Hisense and TCL have become major players in the TV market by offering feature-rich televisions at competitive prices. In our experience and based on widespread user feedback, they are generally reliable. Like any electronics brand, they can have occasional quality control issues, but they offer competitive warranties and have built a strong reputation for providing excellent value for money.

What features are usually missing on a budget TV?

Budget TVs typically make compromises in areas like peak brightness (which affects HDR performance), advanced image processing, the number of local dimming zones (which impacts contrast), and premium build materials. They may also have fewer HDMI 2.1 ports and less powerful built-in sound systems compared to high-end models.

Can you get good HDR performance on a cheap TV?

You can get a noticeable improvement with HDR on a budget TV, but it won’t match the performance of a premium model. A good budget TV will display a wider colour gamut, but it will likely lack the high peak brightness needed for specular highlights to truly “pop” off the screen. Look for models with QLED technology and Dolby Vision support for the best possible HDR experience in this category.

Is it better to buy a premium brand’s budget model or a budget brand’s top model?

This is a great question. Often, a budget brand’s top model (like a high-end Hisense or TCL) will offer more features and better panel technology (e.g., QLED, higher refresh rates) for the same price as an entry-level model from a premium brand like Sony or Samsung. The premium brand might offer slightly better image processing or a more polished operating system, but you’ll generally get more hardware for your money with the budget brand’s flagship.

What’s the most important specification to look for in a budget TV?

While resolution (which should be 4K) is a given, the most important specification to consider is contrast ratio and black levels. A TV that can produce deep blacks will have a more dynamic and punchy image, making everything you watch look better. Look for reviews that mention panel type (VA panels typically have better contrast than IPS) and backlighting technology (Direct Lit is better than Edge Lit).

Are the built-in smart features on budget TVs slow?

This used to be a major issue, but it’s much less of a problem today. Most modern budget TVs from reputable brands have processors that are powerful enough to run their smart platforms smoothly. We found the VIDAA, Tizen, and Fire TV interfaces on the models we tested to be responsive and quick for everyday use, like launching apps and navigating menus.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we are confident in naming the Hisense 55E6QTUK 4K UHD Smart TV as our top pick for the best budget TV in the UK. It consistently delivers on the features that matter most to viewers. The AI-powered Hi-View Engine provides a stunningly sharp and clear 4K picture, while the Precision Colour technology ensures that what you see on screen is both vibrant and true to life. We found its performance in fast-motion scenes, thanks to AI Smooth Motion, to be particularly impressive for a TV at this price. When you combine this excellent visual performance with a simple setup and the modern Freely streaming platform, you get a complete package that offers unbeatable value. It’s the ideal choice for families, movie lovers, and casual gamers looking for a high-quality experience without the premium price tag.