10 Best 55 Inch Tv Under 500 2025 in the United States

The TCL 55-Inch Class S5 UHD 4K LED Smart TV stands out as a strong contender in the under $500 category, particularly for those seeking a vibrant viewing experience with modern smart features. With 4K UltraHD resolution, it delivers sharp and clear images, which is ideal for both movies and gaming. The HDR PRO+ technology enhances color and contrast, making it a great choice for those who appreciate rich visuals. Its built-in Fire TV interface offers easy access to a vast array of streaming services and live TV, simplifying the entertainment experience.

One of the notable benefits is the Auto Game Mode, which reduces input lag, appealing to gamers looking for smooth performance. Moreover, the Dolby Atmos audio system provides a decent surround sound experience, enhancing movie nights or gaming sessions. However, the refresh rate of 60 Hz might not be sufficient for viewers who prefer ultra-fluid motion in fast-paced action scenes, like in sports or high-speed games. While the sound quality is enhanced with features like DTS Virtual:X and Enhanced Dialogue Mode, dedicated external speakers may still be necessary for audiophiles wanting top-notch audio performance.

The Samsung 55-Inch Class Crystal UHD 4K DU7200 Series HDR Smart TV offers an impressive range of features at a competitive price point. With a 4K resolution, this TV delivers clear and sharp images, enhanced further by 4K upscaling technology that ensures even non-4K content appears more detailed. The Motion Xcelerator feature is beneficial for smooth viewing, reducing lag and blur during fast-paced scenes, making it a good choice for action movies or sports enthusiasts. HDR support enhances color and brightness, providing a more vivid and realistic viewing experience, especially in darker scenes. PurColor technology expands the color range for more lifelike pictures, which can be a significant advantage for those who appreciate vibrant visuals.

The Crystal Processor 4K further optimizes both picture and sound quality, ensuring you get the most out of your viewing experience. Audio quality is bolstered by the Object Tracking Sound Lite and Q-Symphony features, particularly when paired with a compatible Samsung soundbar, ensuring a more immersive audio experience. The TV’s connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI, are ample for most users, allowing easy connection to various devices.

Smart TV features powered by Samsung's Tizen OS provide access to numerous streaming services and apps, offering versatility in entertainment options. However, the 60 Hz refresh rate might be less desirable for avid gamers who prefer a higher refresh rate for smoother gameplay. Additionally, while the built-in speakers are convenient, they may not satisfy users looking for high-end audio quality without external speakers or a soundbar. Despite these minor drawbacks, this Samsung model offers great value for those seeking a feature-rich 55-inch TV under $500, particularly for everyday viewing and streaming needs.

The Amazon Fire TV 55" 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV offers a vibrant and clear picture with 4K resolution, HDR 10, and HLG support. This ensures brighter and more colorful visuals compared to standard HD. The 60 Hz refresh rate is decent for most viewing scenarios, though it might fall short for fast-paced sports or gaming enthusiasts looking for higher refresh rates.

Smart TV features are a standout, with the Fire TV OS providing access to a vast array of streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. The Alexa Voice Remote Enhanced makes it easy to control the TV and other compatible smart devices with voice commands. Connectivity is also robust, featuring 4 HDMI ports, a USB port, and both Wi-Fi and Ethernet options, making it easy to hook up various devices like gaming consoles and cable boxes.

Audio quality is supported by Dolby Digital Plus, though the built-in speakers (8W + 8W) might not be powerful enough for a truly immersive experience, so an external sound system could be beneficial. On the downside, some users may find the plastic build and bezel a bit underwhelming aesthetically. Additionally, while the TV is highly functional, the heavy reliance on Fire TV OS means that the experience might not be as streamlined for users who are not already invested in Amazon's ecosystem. Despite these minor drawbacks, this TV is a strong contender in the 55-inch under $500 category, offering excellent value with its advanced features and smart capabilities.