When it comes to finding the best TV for under $300, it can be a challenge to navigate the endless options and features available. But with a little research, you can find the perfect TV that fits both your budget and your viewing needs. From picture quality to smart capabilities, there are several factors to consider when shopping for a TV in this price range. With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top TVs for under $300 that offer the best combination of features and value.
We may earn an affiliate commission for purchases using our links at no added cost to you. Learn more.
Don’t Have Much Time? Check Out Our Top Recommendations
We’ve chosen the best TVs for under $300 that are top-notch quality with great features that set them apart from the pack. Our selections are carefully picked to help you find the ideal match for your needs and preferences.
Best TVs For Under $300
- Brilliant 4K entertainment - Bring movies and shows to life with support for vivid 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, HLG,...
- Scenes that leap off the screen - 4K Ultra HD, HDR 10, and HLG deliver a clearer and more vibrant picture with...
- Hands-free TV with Alexa - With built-in microphones, just ask to turn on the TV, and find, launch, and...
- Watch what you want - Stream over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes. Watch favorites with subscriptions to...
- 4K Ultra HD (2160p resolution) - Enjoy breathtaking 4K movies and TV shows at 4 times the resolution of Full...
- Alexa voice control - Speak commands into the voice remote with Alexa to control your Fire TV verbally—ask...
- Access thousands of shows with Fire TV - Watch over 1 million streaming movies and TV episodes with access to...
- DTS Studio Sound - This premium audio enhancement suite creates realistic and immersive audio with two-speaker...
- Stunning 4K Ultra HD: Enjoy breathtaking 4K movies and TV shows at 4 times the resolution of Full HD. Plus...
- High Dynamic Range: HDR delivers bright and accurate colors for a lifelike viewing experience.
- 1. Thousands of Streaming Channels: Enjoy the over half a million movies and TV episodes available to stream...
- Stream free TV, live news, sports, movies, and more: Start streaming free TV right from your home screen with...
- 1080p resolution View your favorite movies, shows and games in high definition.
- Alexa voice control - The Alexa Voice Remote lets you easily control your entertainment, search across apps,...
- Fire TV experience built-in - Watch over 1 Million streaming movies and TV episodes with access to tens of...
- Supports Apple AirPlay - Share videos, photos, music and more from an Apple device to your TV with the touch...
The Latest Technology in TVs: A Buyers Guide to Upgrading Your Viewing Experience
Screen Size Matters: Choosing the Right TV for Your Viewing Distance
- The screen size of your TV should be determined by your viewing distance. Simply multiply the screen size by 2 to determine the ideal viewing distance. For example, a 60-inch TV should be viewed from 9 feet away. However, with 4K Ultra HD TVs, you can sit a little closer and still enjoy a clear picture.
Screen Resolution: A Guide to Picture Quality
- The current industry standard is UHD (4K) screens, offering top-notch display quality. Make sure the TV you choose has a good upscaling level for videos. Don’t worry if you can’t afford a 4K TV – even a Full HD TV will still provide great results.
Smooth Viewing with the Right Refresh Rate
- The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the picture. Aim for a TV with a refresh rate of 120Hz or higher. If you choose a QLED or OLED TV, you won’t need to worry about the refresh rate – even a 60Hz will provide great results.
Bring Realism to Your Screen with HDR Technology
- HDR technology offers more realistic colors and improved contrast. Go for the latest HDR options such as HDR10, HDR10+, or Dolby Vision for the best results.
Smart TV: The Future of Entertainment
- Most TVs today are smart TVs, but make sure yours comes with an app store, browser, and preinstalled apps for easy connectivity and streaming. If your TV isn’t smart, don’t worry – you can easily convert it with dongles such as Amazon Fire TV Stick, Chromecast, or Roku TV Stick.
Ports and Connectivity: Essential Features
- Your TV should have a minimum of 3 HDMI ports, a USB port, and an Ethernet port for optimal connectivity. Make sure it also has component input, composite input, RF input, optical I/O port, and more.
Ignore the Hype: Contrast Ratio
- The contrast ratio determines picture quality, but manufacturers often fudge the numbers. In general, the higher the contrast ratio, the better the image quality.
Don’t Be Misled by Curved TVs
- Curved TVs may look sleek, but they don’t offer improved picture quality. Stick to a flat screen for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important features to look for in a TV under $300?
When searching for a TV under $300, the most important features to consider are the screen size, resolution, refresh rate, and connectivity options. For example, a screen size of 32 inches with a 720p resolution and 60Hz refresh rate is a good option for this price range. It’s also essential to look for connectivity options such as HDMI, USB, and VGA ports, as this will determine how you can connect the TV to other devices such as gaming consoles, DVD players, and laptops.
Are there any TVs under $300 that support 4K resolution?
A: Unfortunately, it’s unlikely to find a 4K TV under $300, as 4K technology is relatively new and more expensive. Most TVs in this price range will have a 720p or 1080p resolution, which is still a good quality picture but not as sharp and detailed as 4K.
Can you find a smart TV for under $300?
Yes, you can find smart TVs under $300, but it’s important to note that the functionality may not be as comprehensive as more expensive models. For example, some smart TVs in this price range may not have voice control or the latest streaming apps. However, you can still access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video on these smart TVs, which is an excellent way to enjoy your favorite shows and movies.