Today there are many TV brands in the market. The most popular brands include Sony, TCL, Samsung, LG, and others.
Top companies like the mentioned usually focus on making high-end TVs which tend to be quite expensive. However, others also make cheap entry-level TVs, and you can find a TV unit at 300 dollars and below.
Although most cheap TV units don’t have many powerful features, their picture quality is not excellent. Cheap TVs are mostly available in small sizes.
Generally, the cheap TVs are ideal for bedrooms and kitchens but not for the living room. They aren’t powerful enough for 4k movies and games and thus won’t entertain you, guests, and family.
Note that most TVs under 400 do not come with the latest technology. But that doesn’t mean you won’t find a nice unit.
There are several cheap options in the market with unique basic features. The article lists ten best cheap 50 inch TV under 400 and a comprehensive description of each.
Comparison Table
Types Of TVs You Can Find On The Market
Some decades ago, there were limited choices in the TV segment. Today the television scene is different with various television types in the market.
This section will learn about different televisions based on two popular technologies. The information will help you make a good purchase decision.
Liquid Crystal Display TV
Popularly known as LCD TVs – the units came into existence in the mid-2000. LCD TVs are the most common TV type today. The technology utilizes a unique state of matter known as liquid crystals.
Most LCD TVs are backlit and have been around for the last decade. The LED screens are also popular in watches, smartphones, and clocks. It’s because of the technology’s versatility that allows it to function in different screen sizes.
That’s from huge TV to small watches. LCD screens are flat, lightweight, and offer the highest resolution.
LCD TVs are also ideal as outdoor TVs, and many models have waterproof casings, extreme temperatures, and extra bright LEDs.
Light Emitting Diodes TV
The LED TV is simply an LCD TV – however, its backlight uses light-emitting diodes. Others usually use the standard cold-cathode fluorescent.
Therefore it’s not that different from LCD; it’s only the marketing that’s different. TV technology has been around for years, since 2007, but still quite popular.
LED backlighting is good since it makes televisions thinner and more efficient than fluorescent lighting. However, their cost is higher than LCD TVs by some hundred while having the same specs.
The Ten Best 50 Inch TV Under 400
1. TCL 50S425
TCL is an American TV manufacturer and is one of the largest and fastest-growing TV brands. TCL 50S425 brings the latest design and 4K technology.
It brings instant and endless entertainment. Its compatibility allows you to stream more than 5,000 channels, including TV episodes and movies.
Specifications
- Internet services supported: YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Hulu, Spotify, and Skype.
- Resolution: 4K
- Connectivity technology: USB, Wi-Fi
- Mounting Type: Wall mount
- Display Technology: LED
- Screen Size: 50 Inches
Features
The TV has LED technology that offers impressive picture quality. Therefore you will enjoy your movies and games.
Compatibility with google assistant and Alexa will allow you to control the TV using voice commands.
It has an Ethernet port and dual-band Wi-Fi; you can connect the TV directly to the internet and live-stream your best movies and music.
With its smart technology, you can access more than 500,000 TV episodes and movies through the simple and easy-to-use Roku TV.
4K resolution ensures extraordinary picture clarity with great color, contrast, and fine detail. Its High Dynamic Range feature is top quality and will offer lifelike pictures.
2. Amazon Fire TV
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The Amazon Fire is entry-level and is so basic 4K TV. It’s among the first Amazon-branded televisions alongside Fire TV Omni.
It’s ideal for darkrooms since its VA panel gives deep blacks. Amazon Fire TV is usually bright enough to overpower the bright room glare.
Specifications
- Internet services supported: N/A
- Resolution: 4K UHD
- Connectivity technology: Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- Mounting Type: TV stand
- Display Technology: LED
- Screen Size: 50 Inches
- Voice support: Alexa
- Weight (without stand): 20.6 lb.
Features
The TV has a low input lag that’s ideal for gaming. However, the unit can’t support any advanced gaming features.
It offers a great app selection and has an easy-to-use smart interface. You will be able to stream your favorite movies and channels.
Brilliant 4K entertainment guarantees you good pictures. It indeed brings shows and movies to life.
It also supports vivid Dolby digital plus, 4K ultra HD, and more. All these ensure you have vibrant and cleaner pictures with bright colors.
The package includes Fire TV Alexa voice remote. It means you can control your TV using voice commands. With voice commands, you can check out any favorite shows, apps, sports, weather, and more.
It brings all your entertainment in one place. You can stream more than one million TV episodes and movies. Plus, watch your favorite shows with different subscriptions like Disney+, prime video, etc.
Other things you can do include streaming music, playing video games, and watching free and live TV.
The unit also features voice support, which makes it more innovative. You can access other features and channels using voice commands.
In addition, the Amazon Fire has an amazingly easy-to-use interface, and the menu is so straightforward.
However, the TV has poor viewing angles, low response time, and poor gradients that lower its overall ratings.
If you need the best 50 inch TV under 300, this is a good choice. The TV’s performance is suitable for dark rooms and will help you save some dollars.
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3. Hisense 50-Inch Class R6090G
The Hisense is among the best cheap 50 inch TV. It comes with an excellent contrast ratio, low input lag for gamers, a perfect reflection handling.
It can run the Roku innovative interface. Something most Hisense’s TV’s can’t.
People love Roku since it offers various streaming app selections plus free ones. It means you’ll have access to your favorite shows and many more.
Specifications
- Internet services supported: Roku TV
- Resolution: 4K
- Connectivity technology: wireless, Bluetooth
- Mounting Type: Table mount
- Display: LCD
- Year: 2020
Features
The unit’s resolution is four times stronger than the standard 1080p high-definition screen. It also has Dolby Vision HDR that improves the TV color.
Its contrast motion rate is quite fast at 120, ensuring a smoother and faster action. A gorgeous bezel-less design can sense a stunning, realistic, and razor-sharp picture.
You will experience incredible detail that includes beautiful and natural motion, vibrant colors, etc.
Dolby Vision HDR will indeed transform your place into a robust entertainment harbor. You will have cinematic image technology that adds perfect brightness and contrast to each scene. You’ll enjoy all the key moments in the games, movies, and sports.
It has a motion rate of 120 that quickly processes images, removing any lags. You will experience crystal clear images with not even a single blur. Another fantastic feature of the Hisense TV is the game mode that hugely boosts input lag.
The TV is also compatible with several audio devices, and you can enjoy immersive and crisp audio from any surround sound or your 10 watts speakers. You can connect various sound components using Bluetooth.
Controlling the TV is also so easy. Packaging includes a Roku TV remote that’s so easy to use. Plus, it features free android and iOS apps.
Voice control is also available, and you can use it to change channels and search for your favorite shows.
It’s because the TV can use google assistant and Alexa. However, you have to buy both of them separately.
Roku TV comes with streamlined remote control, which offers easy accessibility to your TV. With a simple touch, you’ll have access to more than 5000 channels, movies, etc.
The Hisense TV is a great entry-level TV and is one of the many Hisense options that feature Roku TV and not the Android TV.
It has an easy-to-use interface and access to different apps through the app store. The VA panel with excellent contrast correctly displays deep blacks in a dark room.
4. Toshiba 50-Inch Class C350 Series
The Toshiba C350 TV is an impressive 2021 edition. A great addition to the small family of Amazon-powered televisions. It offers decent performance and good features at a great price.
Specification
- Speaker type: Built-In
- Resolution: 4K
- Connectivity technology: Wi-Fi
- Mounting Type: Table mount
- Display: LED
- Year: 2021
Features
You’ll see all your content in just one place. You can access your favorite apps, stream TV channels, and many more on one home screen. However, you will need subscriptions to some content.
Toshiba C350 series has the Regza engine 4K. It’s the best and highest performing Toshiba engine. With the engine, the TV offers very stunning pictures.
Built-in Alexa voice control allows you to control the TV using voice commands. You can search channels, movies, music, and other features. A pretty big app store offers you access to many downloadable applications over Wi-Fi.
If you need a midsize TV for your bedroom or kitchen and love amazon fire smart TV, you should pick the Toshiba C350 series. It does have all the functions you need in a smart TV.
It features a Fire TV and other unique fast and responsive features. Another good thing is that the TV is easy to set up plus it’s so affordable.
However, it doesn’t come with the latest technologies such as Dolby Atmos or HDMI 2.1. It supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision which are also okay.
The picture quality by its LCD isn’t that good as other TV brands like Sony Bravia, which come in the same size. Overall, Toshiba C350 is a great value TV and best for people that love Fire TV.
5. TCL 50-Inch 5-Series 4K – 50S535
Like other TCL TVs, the TCL 5-series offers good performance. It packs some outstanding performance and features at an excellent price.
It is a smart TV interface and Roku that’s easy to use. It means you have thousands of applications at your disposal.
Specifications
- Supported Internet Services: YouTube, Spotify, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, and skype
- Resolution: 4K
- Connectivity technology: Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB
- Mounting Type: Table mount
- Display: QLED
- Screen Size: 50 Inches
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz
- Year: 2020
Features
TCL features a superior 4K ultra HD that offers excellent picture clarity. You’ll have the chance to experience fantastic color and contrast.
Another fantastic feature that gives a lifelike picture is the Dolby Vision HDR.QLED technology delivers more expansive color volume and better brightness.
It has the Roku smart TV platform that provides seamless access to more than a thousand streaming channels.
Playing games on the TV is also interesting because of the auto game mode that optimizes the gaming experience by making it a fast response.
Voice control, you can make commands using your voice. It includes changing channels, finding movie titles, and many more.
The feature is accessible through voice-enabled remote control, Roku mobile app, and other third-party voice assistants.
Many third-party and compatible voice assistant devices such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
TCL has many inputs, such as 4 HDMI, from where you can connect any favorite devices. There’s the one eARC that you can use to sync your video and audio sources easily. It delivers exceptional sound quality.
Ethernet port is usually very useful in any device and is also available in this unit. You can connect the TV to the internet using the Ethernet cable.
Lastly, the TV comes with a built-in cable management system. It makes your TV setup appear clutter-free and clean.
6. Hisense 50-Ich Class H6570G
The Hisense H65 is one of Hisense series. It’s smart and smooth because of the advanced technologies it packs. It has an incredible 4K Ultra HD resolution that gives a fantastic color burst.
Specifications
- Supported Internet Services: Roku TV
- Screen size: 49.5 inches
- Resolution: 4K
- Connectivity Technology: HDMI, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and Wireless
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Display Technology: LCD
- Mounting Type: TV Stand
- Year: 2020
Features
H56 has built-in Bluetooth connectivity. You can wirelessly connect any compatible stereo component, headphones, soundbar, etc.
It brings music to your eyes and ears.
4K ultra HD is quite powerful. Usually more than four times the resolution of a standard 1080p HD screen. Power LED backlight brings more colorful and sharper pictures.
It has several inputs and outputs such as Ethernet, RF antenna, USB, HDMI, and composite. You can connect the TV with other components such as consoles and even the internet through the ports.
You will have access to more than 4000 games and apps from one place. It’s an android TV that offers comprehensive content. Plus you can watch and discover various movies.
Lastly, it features a built-in google assistant and chrome cast. Meaning you can control the TV using voice commands and connect it to your devices such as the phone.
7. Vizio 50-Inch Class V-Series – V505-G9
Simply watch all your favorite movies and shows from the 50-inch Vizio smart TV. It features several HDMI and USB ports that allow you access to content from various devices. The LED-backlit screen is also a plus and realistically represents the color.
Specifications
- Supported Internet Services: Netflix
- Screen Size: 50 inches
- Display Technology: LED
- Connectivity Technology: HDMI
- Resolution: 4K
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Year: 2018
Features
Several inputs such as HDMI, Ethernet, and USB allow you to connect the TV to various components and services. Therefore you can access content from other devices.
4K and HDR video plus fast wireless speeds ensure higher quality streaming experience. The refresh rate is at 120 Hz, and this is so effective you won’t experience any lags in your images.
Voice control support makes the TV your perfect home companion. It supports both Amazon Alexa and Google assistant-enabled devices.
Remote control and the cast mobile app allow you to instantly access applications and other content. It has Netflix that allows you to stream quality content.
8. RCA RTRU5028 HD TV
The home screen brings all your favorite entertainment to one intuitive and straightforward interface. Navigating through the home screen is easy and quick.
Within minutes, you’ll access popular channels and content from other devices like cable boxes and game consoles.
Specifications
- Display technology: LED
- Resolution: 4K
- Supported Internet Services: Roku TV, YouTube, and Netflix
- Connectivity technology: HDMI
- Year: 2021
- Refresh rate: 60
Features
Access to endless fantastic content – you can stream almost everything you want. That’s from live sports, TV shows, music, and movies.
There are also more than 450,000+ TV episodes and movies that you can choose and schedule. There are other popular choices that you can buy, subscribe to, rent, or even watch freely.
Roku TV is compatible with smartphones or tablets, making it easy to share music, videos, and photos. Packaging includes an easy-to-use Roku remote.
Roku remote is usually super simple, with only 20 buttons that are ideally situated. You won’t have a hard time finding the button you need.
HDMI input ports enable you to connect any device that’s HDMI-enabled. It may include gaming consoles, computers, and tablets.
A combination of RCA and Roku brings trusted and favorite home entertainment. Amazingly Roku has an intuitive and modern interface that makes it easy to use.
The TV design is sleek and modern, and this will improve your room’s décor.
9. LG 80 Series 4K UHD Smart TV
It’s easier to access entertainment on the home screen. You can personalize content for easier access, and you can also control different connected devices from one place.
Specifications
- Supported Internet Services: YouTube, Vudu, Prime Video, Netflix
- Resolution: 4K
- Connectivity Technology: HDMI, Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz
- Display Technology: LED
Features
The Real 4K display offers quality in each scene. You will surely enjoy the high contrast, bright colors, and impeccable detail it offers.
It has a quad-core processor of 4K that offers a crisp and smooth viewing experience. Plus, the blacks, color, and contrast are enhanced.
Thin Q AI and magic remote allow you to control your smart home TV and theater. The remotes navigation is simple. It also has intuitive voice commands to control your TV using voice.
The WEBOS platform is also another great thing. It has a vast content library that contains popular streaming apps.
TruMotion 120 technology improves picture quality by simply reducing blurriness and sharpening details.
Frame rate is at 120 per second and is ideal for lightning-quick sports and fast-moving action sequences. All the content will undoubtedly be clean and smooth.
Supports Alexa and hey google – customize and easily control your TV using your voice. It’s also compatible with the Apple Home kit and Apple Play2, making it possible to cast your favorite content to the TV.
10. TCL 50-Inch Class 4-Series 50S435
TCL is a great TV that offers you access to thousands of programs. Amazingly the TV is easy to set up and use plus offers high-quality pictures and sound.
Specifications
- Supported Internet Services: Roku TV
- Display Technology: LED
- Resolution: 4K
- Mounting Type: Wall mount
- Year: 2021
Features
It has a smart functionality, which means you can access more than 500,000 TV episodes and movies. They’re all accessible through the intuitive and straightforward to use Roku TV.
It has a simple wireless setup even with the Roku TV – there won’t be cables running all over your room, plus you won’t have to drill holes on your wall.
You need to plug the TV into a power source and pair it with other components. You’ll get clear and loud pictures and sound.
4K ultra HD offers clear pictures with high contrast, details, and color. The HDR feature is another fantastic thing. It offers lifelike pictures.
Controlling the TV is easy, and all you need is just one remote Roku TV remote that’s simple and easy to use.
There’s no juggling between additional remotes when you want to adjust the sound setting or change channels.
You can use the TV immediately after unboxing. The packaging includes a power cable, soundbar, and starters guide. After proper connections, you’ll be good to go.
Things To Consider When Buying A TV
The TV is an important and must have electronic in many homes. Most people’s daily routine includes watching television.
A TV will help you catch up on the latest world events or chill and enjoy your favorite Netflix content. Its, therefore, essential to invest in a good TV set that meets all your needs.
Selecting the suitable TV for your needs can be overwhelming considering many options in the market.
You’ll only be able to make the right choice by checking out and comparing the features of different TV brands. Here are some essential features you need to consider when choosing a TV.
Image Quality
In recent years technological advancements have been so rapid. Today 4K and 8K are the popular resolutions, and they offer clean and crisp images.
All TV brands invest in technologies that ensure superior image quality and color balance. All these guarantee you a better viewing experience.
There are also QLED and OLED televisions that offer exceptional contrast and accuracy.
Inputs and Outlets
You should pick a TV with as many inputs as possible. With more outlets, you can connect several devices and use them simultaneously.
Most modern TVs come with composite and component video inputs, HDMI, etc. You can seamlessly connect your DVD, console, Amplifier, etc.
USB ports are standard on TVs – it allows you to connect the TV to an external hard drive. Other high-end accessories such as Apple TV need unique outputs.
If you intend to use any high-end accessory, choose a TV that has a unique output.
Size
The purpose of the TV will help you determine the TV size you need. You’ll need a large screen if it’s for the general family from the living room.
But if you intend to use it from your kitchen or bedroom, then a 50 inch TV is okay. The size of the TV directly affects its price. Overall, if you have a small space, buy a small TV and vice versa.
Technology
Today a smart TV is a need more than luxury. Unlike digital TV, smart TVs can connect to the internet and stream unlimited content such as music, video, etc.
You won’t need an external set-box with a smart TV. Many smart TVs have impressive technologies such as AI, enhancing the overall user experience.
For example, ThinQ AI by LG is one of the best in the TV industry. Other functions like smart home connectivity and voice control allow you to customize your TV according to your preferences and schedules.
Price
It’s the price that determines the type of TV one buys. If you are on a tight budget, you’ll have to choose cheap entry-level TVs that lack powerful features.
Therefore the price usually takes precedence over other considerations. You’ll surely buy the TV you afford. There are TVs for almost all budgets.
Latest And Must Have Smart TV Features
Today almost all TV companies have switched to smart TVs. Ideally, any TV with built-in internet connectivity is a smart TV.
So when choosing any smart TV, there are some features you need to check out and ensure they exist. Here are some of the must-have features of the smart TV.
1. Fast User Interface
The processing speed of the TV is quite essential and a must-have feature. If you have experienced any types of lags, then you know how it feels to wait for something to load for what seems like an eternity.
The main menu or other functions should be able to load and appear on your screen within seconds of prompt. Switching from one app, input, and function to another should be prompt.
2. 4K HD Streaming Video
Today, the 4K ultra HD content is not famous for streaming directly from the internet. However, it’s available from popular services like Amazon Instant, Netflix, etc.
The 4K HD streaming feature is available in most smart TVs. But to use it, your TV must be compatible with the specific service. With 4K HD, you’ll get high-quality images and pictures.
3. Streaming Video Services
A smart TV will help you avoid watching movies from red tune or kiosk. The smart TV you choose should be able to sign up to at least one or more streaming video services such as Hulu Plus, Amazon Prime Instant, Netflix, etc.
Others include CBS All Access, HBO Now, etc. With a fast internet connection, there are several movies and TV shows that you can stream.
However, the smart TV should have apps that support the online services you intend to use. There are many affordable TVs on the list with this feature.
4. Media Player
The smart TV should at least have the primary DLNA-compliant media player. It will allow you to access digital photos, videos, and music.
However, the content should be on a network storage device or computer attached to your home network.
It’s much more pleasant checking out your family photos and videos from a 50 inch TV than from a tiny computer screen.
More advanced media players like Plex, etc., categorize, organize, and even convert your content. All these make it much easier for you to access your digital content.
5. Music Streaming
Music streaming is not an option for many when buying a smart TV. However, you’ll be surprised by how much the feature is excellent.
It’ll be more useful if your TV is in the kitchen or bedroom or other spaces in your home that don’t have audio systems.
Some TVs come with streaming music services, though few, such as TuneIn, iHeart Radio, and Spotify. You can also check out your smart TV app store for any favorite music streaming service.
Conclusion
The buying guide is about the best 50 inch TV under 400. When it comes to TVs, there are various options, and you’ll find a TV for any budget.
Entry-level or cheap TVs don’t usually have powerful features but will satisfy your needs. However, you still have to critically check out the features of a TV before purchasing it.
