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Best 50-inch TVs

Updated
By
An expert product reviewer with over a decade of experience dissecting the latest gadgets and gear across various industries.
Updated
Overall Pick
Samsung QN50Q80C

Main Features

  • Quantum Dot Technology
  • Direct Full Array Backlighting
  • Quantum Processor 4K
  • Smart TV Capabilities
  • Sleek Design

Product Overview

The Samsung QN50Q80C is designed to deliver an immersive viewing experience with its Quantum Dot technology, which ensures vibrant and accurate color reproduction. The Direct Full Array backlighting provides deep blacks and bright whites, enhancing the overall contrast.

This TV also supports a 4K resolution, ensuring that every detail is crystal clear. Additionally, its powerful Quantum Processor 4K optimizes the picture quality scene-by-scene for the best viewing experience.

The TV comes with smart capabilities, giving you access to various streaming services and apps. With its sleek design and minimal bezels, it seamlessly blends into any living room decor.

PROS
  • Excellent picture quality
  • Deep blacks
  • Vibrant colors
  • Smart features
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • No Dolby Vision support

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 50 inches
  • Resolution 4K Ultra HD
  • HDR Yes
  • Smart TV Yes
Best Price / Quality
TCL 50S535

Main Features

  • QLED Technology
  • 4K UHD Resolution
  • Dolby Vision HDR
  • Built-in Roku
  • Sleek Design

Product Overview

The TCL 50S535 is perfect for those looking for a high-quality TV at an affordable price. It incorporates QLED technology, which ensures bright and vivid colors. The TV also supports 4K UHD resolution and Dolby Vision HDR, providing an excellent viewing experience.

With Roku built-in, you can easily access a wide range of streaming services and apps directly from your TV. The TCL 50S535 features a sleek design, making it a stylish addition to any room. Despite its lower price point, this TV offers robust performance and a variety of features that enhance your viewing pleasure.

PROS
  • Affordable price
  • Good picture quality
  • Easy access to streaming
  • Dolby Vision support
CONS
  • Average sound quality
  • Limited advanced features

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 50 inches
  • Resolution 4K Ultra HD
  • HDR Yes
  • Smart TV Yes

Main Features

  • OLED Technology
  • ?9 Gen 4 AI Processor
  • 4K Resolution
  • HDR Support
  • Smart TV Capabilities

Product Overview

The LG OLED50C1PUB is designed for those who demand the best in picture quality. Its OLED technology provides perfect blacks and infinite contrast, making every scene look incredibly lifelike. The TV supports 4K resolution and HDR, ensuring that you see every detail with stunning clarity.

The ?9 Gen 4 AI Processor 4K optimizes picture and sound quality for an immersive experience. With its smart capabilities, you can access a wide range of streaming services and apps. The TV also features a sleek and modern design with ultra-thin bezels, making it a stylish addition to any room.

Additionally, its low input lag and fast response time make it an excellent choice for gamers.

PROS
  • Perfect blacks
  • Stunning colors
  • Excellent for gaming
  • Smart features
CONS
  • Expensive
  • Risk of burn-in

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 50 inches
  • Resolution 4K Ultra HD
  • HDR Yes
  • Smart TV Yes

Main Features

  • 4K HDR Display
  • HDMI 2.1 Support
  • 120Hz Refresh Rate
  • XR Cognitive Processor
  • Smart TV Capabilities

Product Overview

The Sony XBR-50X90J is a top choice for gamers and movie enthusiasts alike. This 50-inch TV features a 4K HDR display that delivers stunning picture quality with vibrant colors and deep contrasts. The TV is equipped with HDMI 2.

1 ports and supports a 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for next-gen gaming consoles. The XR Cognitive Processor optimizes each scene for the best possible picture quality. With its smart capabilities, you can easily access streaming services and apps.

The TV also features a sleek design with minimal bezels, blending seamlessly into any room decor. The Sony XBR-50X90J offers a premium viewing experience, whether you're watching movies or playing games.

PROS
  • Excellent for gaming
  • Vibrant colors
  • Smooth motion
  • Smart features
CONS
  • Expensive
  • Average sound quality

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 50 inches
  • Resolution 4K Ultra HD
  • HDR Yes
  • Smart TV Yes

Main Features

  • Quantum Dot Technology
  • 4K Resolution
  • Dolby Vision HDR
  • Android TV
  • Sleek Design

Product Overview

The Hisense 50U8G is a feature-rich TV that offers excellent performance at a reasonable price. It features Quantum Dot technology, which delivers bright and accurate colors. The TV supports 4K resolution and Dolby Vision HDR, ensuring that you see every detail with stunning clarity and contrast.

The Hisense 50U8G also comes with Android TV, giving you access to a wide range of streaming services and apps. The TV's sleek design and minimal bezels make it a stylish addition to any room. Additionally, it features a powerful processor that ensures smooth performance and quick responses.

Whether you're watching movies or streaming your favorite shows, the Hisense 50U8G provides a great viewing experience.

PROS
  • Affordable
  • Good picture quality
  • Dolby Vision support
  • Smart features
CONS
  • Average sound quality
  • Limited advanced features

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 50 inches
  • Resolution 4K Ultra HD
  • HDR Yes
  • Smart TV Yes

Understand Your Needs

First, it’s important to understand what you want from your TV. Are you an avid gamer looking for low input lag and high refresh rates? Or perhaps a movie enthusiast who values deep blacks and vibrant colors? Identifying your primary use case will help narrow down your options.

Key Features to Consider

  1. Display Technology: The two main types of display technology in modern TVs are LED and OLED. LED TVs are generally more affordable and offer good brightness, making them suitable for well-lit rooms. OLED TVs, on the other hand, provide superior picture quality with deeper blacks and better contrast, but they come at a higher price.

  2. Resolution: Most 50-inch TVs come with either 4K UHD (Ultra High Definition) or Full HD (1080p) resolution. 4K is now the standard for a crisp and detailed viewing experience, especially for streaming content from platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Full HD is cheaper but less future-proof.

  3. HDR (High Dynamic Range): HDR enhances the contrast and color range of the TV, providing a more realistic and immersive viewing experience. Look for TVs that support major HDR formats like HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG.

  4. Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate, such as 120Hz, can make fast-moving images look smoother, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and sports. Most budget TVs come with a 60Hz refresh rate, which is adequate for general viewing.

  5. Smart TV Features: Consider the operating system and app ecosystem. Popular smart TV platforms include Android TV, Roku TV, and Tizen. Make sure the TV supports the streaming services you use frequently. Voice control functionality through integrations with Alexa, Google Assistant, or built-in voice assistants can also enhance convenience.

  6. Sound Quality: While many modern TVs come with decent built-in speakers, the slim design often compromises sound quality. If audio is a priority, consider models with Dolby Atmos support or plan to invest in a soundbar or external speakers.

Comparing Models

Once you have a grasp of the features, start comparing models. Websites like CNET, TechRadar, and Consumer Reports can provide detailed reviews and comparisons. Pay attention to professional reviews as well as customer feedback on retailers like Amazon or Best Buy. Look for consistent performance in picture quality, ease of use, and reliability.

Brand Reputation and After-Sales Service

Brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL are well-regarded for their innovation and quality. However, newer brands like Hisense and Vizio also offer competitive models at appealing price points. Check the warranty and after-sales service reputation, as these can be crucial if you encounter any issues down the line.

Budget and Value

Set a realistic budget based on the features that matter most to you. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more upfront can often result in a better long-term experience. Look out for seasonal sales and discounts, especially around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holiday periods.

Future-Proofing

Finally, consider how future-proof the TV is. Technology evolves rapidly, and investing in a model with the latest features can ensure your TV remains relevant for years to come. Features like HDMI 2.1, which supports higher resolutions and refresh rates, can be beneficial if you plan to use next-gen gaming consoles or other high-bandwidth devices.

Conclusion

Finding the best 50-inch TV requires balancing your specific needs with the available features, price, and brand reputation. By understanding what you want to use the TV for, researching key features, comparing models, and considering long-term value, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your viewing experience for years to come.