Best 50 Inch Tv For The Price
Buying your first TV can feel like navigating a minefield. Jargon like "HDR," "refresh rate," and "smart features" can be overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise, helping first-time buyers find the best 50-inch TV without breaking the bank.
We're focusing on 50-inch TVs because they offer a sweet spot in size and affordability. They're big enough for an immersive viewing experience. At the same time, they are usually small enough to fit comfortably in most living rooms and bedrooms.
Why a Good 50-Inch TV Matters
Your TV is more than just a screen. It's your portal to movies, games, and shared experiences with family and friends.
A quality TV provides vibrant colors, sharp details, and immersive sound, enhancing your entertainment. It also integrates seamlessly with your streaming services and gaming consoles. The right TV brings joy and connection to your home.
Top 5 50-Inch TVs: Comparison Table
| Model | Price (USD) | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Smart Features | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCL 50S455 | $280 | 4K UHD | 60Hz | Roku TV | 1 Year |
| Hisense 50A65K | $300 | 4K UHD | 60Hz | Google TV | 1 Year |
| Samsung UN50CU7000 | $350 | 4K UHD | 60Hz | Tizen | 1 Year |
| LG 50UR7500 | $330 | 4K UHD | 60Hz | webOS | 1 Year |
| Amazon Fire TV 50" Omni Series | $380 | 4K UHD | 60Hz | Fire TV | 1 Year |
Detailed Reviews
TCL 50S455
The TCL 50S455 is a solid entry-level 4K TV. Its Roku TV interface is intuitive and offers access to a vast library of streaming apps.
The picture quality is decent for the price, with good color accuracy and contrast. However, the 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for fast-paced action or gaming.
Hisense 50A65K
The Hisense 50A65K impresses with its Google TV smart platform. This platform provides seamless integration with Google Assistant and a wealth of apps.
The picture quality is bright and vibrant, making it suitable for well-lit rooms. The Motion Rate 120 helps reduce blur during fast action scenes, improving the viewing experience.
Samsung UN50CU7000
Samsung's UN50CU7000 offers a sleek design and the Tizen smart platform. Tizen is known for its speed and user-friendly interface, providing a smooth streaming experience.
Samsung's Dynamic Crystal Color technology delivers a wider range of colors than standard LED TVs. The overall picture quality is good, but the black levels could be better.
LG 50UR7500
The LG 50UR7500 features LG's webOS smart platform. WebOS is known for its intuitive interface and magic remote, making navigation a breeze.
The TV offers good color accuracy and viewing angles. However, its contrast ratio isn't the best, so it may not be ideal for very dark rooms.
Amazon Fire TV 50" Omni Series
The Amazon Fire TV Omni series comes with built-in Alexa voice control. It allows for hands-free operation and easy control of smart home devices.
The picture quality is decent, and the integration with Amazon's ecosystem is seamless. However, the interface can feel a bit cluttered for some users.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Used TVs: Pros
- Lower Price: Significantly cheaper than new models.
- Depreciation Hit Absorbed: Someone else already took the initial depreciation hit.
Used TVs: Cons
- Unknown History: You don't know how well the TV was cared for.
- No Warranty: Usually no warranty, meaning you're on your own if something goes wrong.
- Outdated Technology: May lack modern features like HDR or the latest smart TV platforms.
New TVs: Pros
- Warranty: Provides peace of mind in case of defects.
- Latest Technology: Access to the newest features and improvements in picture quality.
- Pristine Condition: You know the TV is brand new and hasn't been mistreated.
New TVs: Cons
- Higher Price: More expensive than used models.
- Depreciation: Loses value quickly after purchase.
For first-time buyers, a new TV is generally the better choice. The warranty and peace of mind are worth the extra cost.
Reliability Ratings by Brand
Reliability is a key factor to consider when buying a TV. Some brands have a better track record than others.
- Samsung: Generally reliable, but can have issues with backlight failures.
- LG: Known for their OLED technology's reliability. But some users report issues with their LED models.
- Sony: Typically very reliable, but can be more expensive.
- TCL: Reliability can be inconsistent, with some models performing well and others having issues.
- Hisense: Similar to TCL, reliability can vary.
These are general trends, and individual experiences can vary. Check online reviews and forums for specific model reliability before purchasing.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
- Resolution: Ensure it's at least 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) for sharp picture.
- HDR Support: Look for HDR10 or Dolby Vision for enhanced color and contrast.
- Smart TV Platform: Choose a platform you like (Roku, Google TV, Tizen, webOS, Fire TV).
- Connectivity: Make sure it has enough HDMI ports for your devices.
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz is fine for most content, but 120Hz is better for gaming and fast action.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 50-inch TV for the price involves balancing features, reliability, and budget. We've covered key considerations, from comparing top models to understanding the pros and cons of used vs. new. By keeping these points in mind, you're well-equipped to make an informed decision.
Weigh the factors that matter most to you. Compare specifications and read user reviews. Be sure to check the brands and models' reliability ratings. Remember the five must-check features. That way you can choose the best TV for your needs and budget.
Ready to upgrade your viewing experience? Browse the models mentioned above. Read more in-depth reviews. Choose the TV that's perfect for you.
