Best TVs under $1000: Expert Suggestions and Reviews

There’s no need to call out for outstanding performance as the best TVs under $1000 can give you all the crucial features without the extra accessories that push the cost to high prices. 

Generally, you’re going to have to shop for a 55-inch screen size instead of a 65-inch screen size if you want to get the best deals for under-$1000 TVs, or you’ll have to look at the models from last year rather than purchasing the most recent ones directly from the factory.  Many TVs from last year are still fantastic options and are now offered at attractive prices.

1.  Hisense U8H (55-inch) 

The main selling point of the U8H series is its mini-LED backlight, which rival TCL introduced first in LCD TVs that was quickly embraced by Samsung, LG, and Sony quickly adopted in their own models. High brightness is one of the main advantages of mini-LEDs, and the U8H series easily delivers on this promise.

The U8H is impressive for more reasons than just its high brightness, though. For improved color, it features a Quantum Dot filter, and the 65-inch model's 504 local dimming zones produce rich, detailed blacks. Some backlight blooming, which is a common artifact with LED-backlitTVs that have local dimming, can be noticed with difficult material, but that's the exception rather than the rule.  

The U8H series is prepared for whichever HDR format you stream or feed it with compatibility for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG. It also has a Filmmaker mode that offers largely realistic out-of-the-box color. The U8H's comprehensive support for next-generation gaming consoles is another outstanding feature. In addition to a 120 Hz display, it also has Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and FreeSync Premium Pro.

TOP FEATURES

• Resolution: 4K

• Screen size: 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch

• Smart TV: Google TV

• Panel Type: QLED

• HDR: HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+

LIKES

• Strong brightness and deep blacks

• Mini-LED backlighting

• 120 Hz, VRR, and ALLM for gaming

DISLIKES

• Upconverted HD images can look soft

• Some backlight blooming

• Mediocre audio performance

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 2. Vizio M-Series QX (65-inch)

The most cutting-edge TVs Vizio has so far introduced in 2022 are those in the M-Series QX line. With features like 4K/120Hz compatibility, auto low latency mode (ALLM), variable refresh rate (VRR), and Freesync Premium Pro integrated, it is apparent that this series has a focus on gaming performance.

Beyond gaming, M-Series QX TVs have a full-array LED backlight with local dimming and an LCD panel with a Quantum Dot overlay for better color. Although they aren't the brightest TVs in the Vizio lineup—you'll need to upgrade to one of its more expensive P-Series models for that—the performance in terms of brightness, color, and contrast are all outstanding for a budget TV.

The M-Series QX achieves a good overall balance between performance and cost. This M-Series QX model won't let you down if you're searching for a reasonably priced set that's almost the full package.

TOP FEATURES

• Resolution: 4K

• Screen size:  50-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch

• Smart TV: Vizio proprietary

• Panel Type: Quantum LED

• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision. HDR10+

LIKES

• Brightness below premium QLED TVs

• Too basic remote lacks backlighting 

• clutter-filled smart TV user interface.

DISLIKES

• Decent brightness and deep blacks

• Vivid color

• Strong suite of HDMI 2.1 gaming characteristics

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3.  LG A2 OLED (55-inch)

Although LG's A2 series OLED televisions are the brand's entry-level models, you won't be missing out on much. The A2 delivers superb overall image quality that will satisfy OLED enthusiasts.

At this budget, gamer-friendly features such as a 120 Hz panel are absent, and the visual brightness is inferior to LG's step-up OLEDs. However, the A2 is a great choice if you're searching for an excellent, reasonably priced set for watching movies and other forms of entertainment.

The 55-inch version of the A2 has dropped below $1,000, making it a terrific price and one that we'd strongly suggest grabbing.

TOP FEATURES

• Resolution: 4K

• Screen size:  48-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch

• Smart TV: LG WebOS

• Panel Type: OLED

• HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG

LIKES

• Detailed shadows and deep blacks 

• Precise out-of-box color (Filmmaker mode)

• Reasonably priced for an OLED TV

DISLIKES

• Doesn’t have higher-level gaming characteristics

• Brightness is limited

• Normal audio performance

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4. 65-inch Hisense U7G

Hisense has packed as much picture technology as they could into the U7G to provide the best possible images, including special ULED technologies and a collection of resolution-boosters that work with the set's 4K panel to upscale colors, brightness, contrast, and motion. Precise local dimming and quantum dots are some of the best features of a Hisense TV and the U7G is no different. Be prepared for the boldest colors you've ever seen, at least for this price point.

Gaming is one of the main factors to take into account when buying a large-screen TV, and Hisense has you covered there, too. A built-in picture preset called Game Mode Pro uses the U7G high-speed's HDMI inputs to produce smooth motion with less input lag, screen jitter, and other distortions specific to gaming. Simply told, you won't find a better Xbox or PS5 experience anywhere.

It becomes evident why the 65-inch Hisense U7G is only second to the brand's superb U8G when you factor in Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos compatibility, an easy Android TV smart UI for all your streaming needs, and Google Assistant (our top pick).

LIKES

• Outstanding brightness

• Decent black levels

• Superb backlight control

• Great for gaming

• Simple setup.

DISLIKES

• Bad off-angle performance

• Potential dirty screen effect

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5. 55-inch LG QNED80

The Sony X90J is among the greatest options available for people seeking for a TV that costs less than $1,000. As 2024 approaches, supply may be dwindling, but if you act quickly, 50-inch X90J sets can still be found.

It boasts exceptional image quality in part due to a new Cognitive XR processor that Sony's top 2021 TVs are equipped with. This processor allows for superb upscaling and contrast adjustment. The X90J also features Google TV, a new smart platform that allows for simple setup, broad app support, and the advantages of Google Cast from Android devices. Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos audio are also included.

Regarding gaming, the X90J boasts two full-spec HDMI 2.1 connectors and a 120Hz panel with 4k resolution for your Xbox Series X and PS5, with auto low latency mode (ALLM) for sub-10ms lag and variable refresh rate (VRR) to really enhance your gaming experience.   Simply make sure you go to the picture settings and choose "Enhanced format" for your chosen HDMI port in order to take use of its 2.1 specification.

There are still some unresolved issues, such as mediocre off-axis vision and difficulties in bright sunlight. And for a light price increase, the step-up X95J model's capabilities will undoubtedly surpass those of the X90J.

TOP FEATURES

• Resolution: 4K

• Screen size:   55-inch

• Smart TV:  Android TV

• Panel Type: LCD

• Dimensions: 1,231 x 710 x 70 mm

LIKES

• Convincing, dynamic 4K HDR

• Superb upscaling

• Full-bodied sound.

DISLIKES

• Lacks HDR10+

• Brash Android interface

• Viewing angles are limited

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What should you look for in the best TVs under $1000?

In that price range, 4K resolution is a given, but you should also keep an eye out for dynamic HDR formats such as HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. Generally speaking, you can expect Direct Full Array backlights rather than the less expensive edge lighting found on value screens, as well as smart TV platforms that won't cause you to want to hurl your remote at the TV in annoyance.