Finding quality TVs under 200 dollars seems like chasing a unicorn. Most people want reliable performance without spending too much, yet the market overflows with choices that make selection difficult.
Good news though – Online retailers currently lists smart TVs starting at just $69. The TCL 32S325 works perfectly as a second screen for compact spaces, while the 42-inch Insignia F20 Series delivers crystal-clear 1080p picture quality. Today’s market offers several impressive options under $200. The Insignia F30 comes packed with HDR10 support and Alexa integration, and the Hisense U6N’s vibrant display includes convenient features like Apple AirPlay and Google Cast. This piece will help you pick the best value-focused TVs that won’t drain your savings.
Buying a smart TV is a long-term decision. TVs stick around longer than most other gadgets people own. If you’re looking to get a smart TV priced under $100, $150, or $200 keep a few things in mind:
One of the first things to think about is the screen size since it plays a big role in how the TV fits your setup. The size should match the room where it will go. Pick a screen that works best for your space. TVs under $200 are rare, but sizes like 55 or 65 inches are expected. Make sure to think about where you’ll sit in relation to the screen too. You should choose a TV size while thinking about how far you’ll sit from the screen. Make sure you sit at least 6 feet away from the TV. This should be your first priority.
TVs come in three main kinds: LCD, LED, and OLED. Here’s a quick look at what LCD and OLED are:
Some of the big advantages of this kind of TV include having the best picture quality available. The colors stand out, and the image stays sharp even if you look at it from an angle. They produce deeper blacks and better details in shadows and contrast compared to any LCD TVs. Still, these screens come with their downsides. They cost a lot. Some LCD TVs can hit higher peak brightness levels. No one knows for sure if the screens might break down over time. Plus, there’s no guarantee they can prevent “ghost” images after displaying one picture for too long.
Pixels build the image you see on a screen, arranged in rows and columns, which define the resolution. A higher count means sharper and clearer pictures. This is why people suggest buying a TV with high resolution. Across the globe, full HD TVs have taken over standard definition ones as the go-to choice for most viewers. Ultra HD TVs, often labeled 4K models, are currently the newest trend though. Detailed models create more lifelike and complex images. 4K TVs pack four times more pixels than regular HD ones. 8K displays, which are seen as the future, will quadruple the pixels of 4K. So far, Samsung has released a limited number, and these models are still in the early stages.
Think about this too. Check how many HDMI ports the TV has. Many brands these days provide fewer ports. Having plenty of ports always comes in handy. These ports connect to different electronic devices like game consoles, sound bars, or streaming gadgets such as Roku and Chromecast. Aim to get at least four HDMI ports on your device. If you’re thinking about a 4K TV, check that the ports support HDMI 2.0. This will be important to use future Ultra HD features.
A refresh rate shows how often a screen updates its image. It is measured in Hertz or Hz. Most screens refresh 60 times per second. However, fast-moving scenes might get blurry or stutter at this speed. This issue often happens with LCD HDTVs. Manufacturers use 120 Hz, which is double the standard frequency, to avoid possible issues. With higher refresh rates, many newer models now handle content at over 60 frames per second. High frame rate (HFR) adds a great viewing boost to live sports, action-packed movies, or shows. This stands out as one of the year’s biggest advancements.
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The TCL 32S325 shows that budget TVs can still pack a punch. This 32-inch Roku Smart LED TV has everything you need and an accessible interface that makes it great for smaller spaces.
The TCL 32S325 packs several great features despite its low price. The TV shows HD content at 720p resolution (1366 x 768) and keeps the standard 16:9 aspect ratio for proper scaling. The built-in Roku platform lets you access over 500,000 movies and TV episodes from thousands of streaming channels. This budget TV’s connection options are impressive. The TCL 32S325 has three HDMI 1.4a ports (one with Audio Return Channel), optical audio output, a headphone jack, coaxial input, composite A/V input, and a USB port to play media. The dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11 2×2) ensures smooth streaming.
The media player works with many file types through USB:
The TV works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for easy voice control, but you won’t find Bluetooth connectivity for external audio devices.
This TV shines as a second screen in bedrooms, kitchens, or kids’ rooms where space is tight. Its compact size (28.8″ × 17.1″ × 3.1″ without stand) fits snugly in small spaces, and VESA mount compatibility (100mm × 100mm) gives you plenty of setup options. The model works great for casual viewers who mostly stream content, watch broadcast TV, or play on gaming consoles. College students, first-time buyers, or anyone setting up a guest room will love its mix of affordability and features. Looking for a reliable smart TV under $200 that doesn’t cut corners? The TCL 32S325 hits the sweet spot between features, picture quality, and value. While it might not match premium TVs in display tech or sound, it has everything you need for daily entertainment at a fraction of the cost.
Looking for Fire TV features at a bargain price? The INSIGNIA F20 Series might be exactly what you need. This smart TV brings Amazon’s entertainment ecosystem right into your home without breaking the bank.
The INSIGNIA F20 32-inch model comes with 720p resolution that gives you high-definition viewing for your everyday entertainment. The display handles most content smoothly with its 60Hz refresh rate, though you might notice some motion blur in fast-moving scenes. The TV shines with its built-in Fire TV platform. You’ll get access to over 1.5 million streaming movies and TV episodes through Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube, Hulu, and many others. You won’t need a separate streaming device anymore.
The control options really stand out. The Alexa Voice Remote lets you search content, launch apps, switch inputs, and control compatible smart home devices with simple voice commands. Apple users will love the AirPlay support that makes sharing content from their devices a breeze.
Here’s what you get for connectivity:
The sound quality gets a boost from DTS Virtual-X Sound technology. This creates an immersive three-dimensional sound experience through the TV’s built-in speakers.
This TV works great as a second screen in bedrooms, kitchens, or kids’ rooms. The compact size fits perfectly in smaller spaces where you’ll sit closer to the screen – that’s where the 720p resolution looks its best.
Budget-conscious shoppers who care more about streaming features than top-tier picture quality will love this TV. College students setting up their dorm rooms, first-time buyers, or anyone who needs an affordable second TV will find the F20 hits that sweet spot between features and price. The F20 really shines for casual viewers who stream most of their content and like using voice controls. The parental controls make it a solid choice for families who want to keep tabs on what their kids watch.
The Westinghouse 32-inch Roku TV shines among TVs under $200. This smart TV packs modern features at a price that won’t break the bank, making it perfect for everyday viewing.
The Westinghouse 32-inch Roku TV (model WR32HT2212) comes with a 31.5-inch diagonal HD display and 720p resolution. You’ll notice less motion blur and sharp picture quality. A 60Hz refresh rate paired with an 8ms response time ensures your content plays smoothly. The TV runs on the complete Roku platform. You can watch over 350 free live TV channels and stream from thousands of apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. The free Roku Mobile App lets you search and control your TV with voice commands.
This budget TV doesn’t skimp on connection options:
Dual-band Wi-Fi technology (MIMO) powers reliable streaming. The TV works with Apple AirPlay, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant-enabled devices. Sound quality gets a boost from Dolby Audio processing. The bottom-mounted 2-channel 8W speakers deliver clearer dialog and better volume.
This TV fits perfectly in smaller spaces like kitchens, craft rooms, or RVs. Its compact size of 28.8″ × 18.8″ × 6.7″ (with stand) works well in tight spots. Budget-conscious shoppers who want streaming features more than premium display tech will love this model. It’s great for college students, first-time buyers, or anyone needing an affordable second screen.
The TV doubles as a smart home hub by working with various voice assistants. At just 10.6 pounds with stand, you can easily move it around or mount it on walls (VESA 200 × 100mm). This Westinghouse model proves perfect for bedrooms, kitchens, or other secondary spots. It delivers solid performance at a fraction of premium TV prices, earning its spot among the best budget TVs for basic smart features.
Amazon has launched its own smart TV with the Fire TV 2-Series 32-inch. This budget-friendly TV comes with Amazon’s streaming ecosystem built right into the hardware. Direct manufacturing by Amazon suggests better optimization and long-term support compared to third-party Fire TV models.
The Amazon Fire TV 2-Series 32-inch shows content in 720p HD resolution and supports HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio. You’ll get good picture quality that works well for everyday viewing in smaller rooms. The built-in Fire TV platform makes this TV stand out. You can access over 1 million movies and TV shows through Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and other services. Free content is available through YouTube, Tubi, Pluto TV, and similar apps.
Connectivity options include:
The Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote lets you search content, control smart home devices, check sports scores, and direct the interface with voice commands. Regular updates add new Alexa skills, features, and smart home capabilities to the TV.
This TV shines as a second screen in bedrooms, kids’ rooms, or spaces with limited viewing distance. Setup is quick and simple, making it perfect for anyone who wants smart TV features without complicated settings.
Prime subscribers who use Alexa devices will find this TV fits perfectly into their home. The Bluetooth feature works great for night owls who want to watch TV without waking others – just connect wireless headphones. This TV delivers great value for anyone who needs simple smart features in smaller spaces where top-tier display quality isn’t the main priority.
The Toshiba C350 Fire TV Edition brings together good picture quality and Amazon’s ecosystem at a price that makes it appealing to budget-conscious shoppers looking for TVs under $200.
The Toshiba C350 comes with 4K resolution and supports multiple HDR formats including Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. Toshiba’s REGZA Engine ZR powers the TV and improves picture quality through precise analyzing technology. The AI 4K Upscaler makes non-4K content look better by analyzing nearby pixels to determine proper color placement rather than just copying pixels.
Sound quality gets a boost from Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X processing, which creates an immersive experience even without extra speakers. The built-in Fire TV platform gives you access to thousands of apps and streaming services like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu and more. The TV really shines in gaming with an impressive input lag of just 3.1 milliseconds in Game mode, making it great for casual gaming.
This TV works best in rooms where you can control the lighting because of its brightness limitations. The wide viewing angle makes it a great choice for rooms where people watch from different spots. Casual gamers will love how responsive it is, though it’s not the best for competitive gaming due to limited brightness and standard 60Hz refresh rate. People new to smart TVs or those who already use Amazon devices will find the Fire TV features and Alexa integration particularly useful.
The Vizio D-Series 32-inch Smart TV delivers exceptional value by combining Full HD resolution with gaming features at a budget-friendly price.
The D-Series showcases crystal-clear picture quality through its Full Array LED backlight system with Full HD (1080p) resolution. Gamers will love AMD FreeSync technology that reduces screen tearing, while the variable refresh rate matches up to 60fps. The TV responds quickly with input lag times of less than 10ms, which makes it perfect for casual gaming.
The TV connects through dual-band WiFi 5 for stable streaming and includes two HDMI 1.4 ports plus Bluetooth support for wireless headphones. VIZIO’s Voice Remote comes with push-to-talk features that help you find content faster. The smart home features stand out with built-in Apple AirPlay, Chromecast, and support for popular voice assistants.
This TV works perfectly in dorm rooms or apartments where space comes at a premium but entertainment needs stay high. Its light weight (9.44 lbs with stand) and VESA mount compatibility mean you can place it almost anywhere in your home.
The TCL 32S350G makes its mark in the budget TV market by pairing Full HD resolution with Google’s smart TV platform. This 2023 model packs impressive specs at an affordable price.
The TCL 32S350G delivers 1080p Full HD resolution that brings clarity and detail to your screen. HDR10 support boosts contrast and color accuracy. The TV sports an elegant FullView Metal Bezel-less Design with edge-to-edge glass that blends naturally into your home.
You’ll find two HDMI inputs (one with ARC) and built-in Bluetooth to pair your headphones. The built-in Google TV platform brings movies, shows, and live content from streaming services together. The TV also comes with Chromecast functionality so you can cast content from thousands of compatible apps.
This TV fits perfectly in smaller rooms where picture quality matters. The Full HD resolution makes it a great choice for entertainment and computer use. Google TV integration makes it ideal for people who use Google’s ecosystem and want voice control with easy casting options.
| Model | Resolution | Screen Size | Smart Platform | Key Connectivity | Notable Pros | Notable Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCL 32S325 | 720p (1366x768) | 32-inch | Roku | 3 HDMI, USB, Optical, Wi-Fi | Lightweight (8.6 lbs), Thin bezel, Accessible Roku interface | No Bluetooth, Limited to 720p, Simple sound |
| INSIGNIA F20 | 720p | 32-inch | Fire TV | 2 HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi 5 | Easy setup, Fire TV integration, DTS Virtual-X Sound | Limited viewing angles, Edge-mounted stands, 720p only |
| Westinghouse 32" Roku | 720p | 32-inch | Roku | 3 HDMI, USB, Optical | 178° viewing angle, Smart home integration, Lightweight (10.6 lbs) | No ethernet port, Simple audio, No voice remote |
| Amazon Fire TV 2-Series | 720p | 32-inch | Fire TV | 3 HDMI (1 ARC), Bluetooth | Good audio quality, Bluetooth support, Regular updates | Inconsistent picture, Menu lag, Average gaming performance |
| Toshiba C350 | 4K | 43-inch | Fire TV | Not specified | Low input lag (3.1ms), Wide viewing angle, Accurate colors | Limited brightness, Poor contrast ratio, Cluttered interface |
| Vizio D-Series | 1080p | 32-inch | SmartCast | 2 HDMI, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 5 | Gaming features, Bluetooth audio, Free channels | Simple audio, System freezes, Limited app store |
| TCL 32S350G | 1080p | 32-inch | Google TV | 2 HDMI (1 ARC), Bluetooth | Full HD, Google TV interface, Chromecast built-in | Limited HDMI ports, Simple sound, Remote responsiveness issues |
You might think finding a good smart TV under $200 is tough, but the market today has some great options. These budget TVs pack surprising value with good picture quality, smart features, and ways to connect your devices. TCL and Insignia are your best bets for saving money, and their prices can drop below $100 during sales. The Toshiba C350 shines with its gaming performance and quick response time. The TCL 32S350G and Vizio D-Series give you full HD resolution without breaking the bank.
The right budget TV depends on where and how you’ll use it. Small spaces work well with compact models like the LG 24LM530S-PU, which works as both a TV and computer monitor. Gamers should check out the Vizio D-Series with AMD FreeSync or the quick-responding Toshiba C350. Your choice of smart platform makes a big difference. Roku TVs have simple menus and lots of apps, while Fire TV models work naturally with Amazon’s services. Google TV gives you another option with smart content suggestions and Chromecast built-in.
Room setup matters just as much as specs. Most 720p screens look fine in smaller rooms where you sit farther back. The TCL 32S350G’s 1080p display shows sharper images up close. These budget TVs can’t compete with expensive models, but they handle everyday entertainment well. You can stream shows and play casual games without spending too much. They’re perfect for dorm rooms, guest bedrooms, or kitchen viewing. These eight smart TVs under $200 give you the features that count without the premium price tag.
Budget smart TVs under $200 offer surprising value with essential features for everyday entertainment without breaking the bank.
The key is matching your specific needs—whether it’s a secondary bedroom TV, gaming display, or compact kitchen screen—with the right combination of features and smart platform integration. These budget options prove you don’t need premium pricing for satisfying daily entertainment.
Q1. What are the key features to look for in a budget smart TV under $200? Look for HD resolution (720p or 1080p), a user-friendly smart platform (like Roku or Fire TV), multiple HDMI ports, and built-in WiFi. Some models also offer HDR support and voice control capabilities.
Q2. How does the picture quality of sub-$200 TVs compare to more expensive models? While budget TVs can’t match premium models in terms of brightness, contrast, and color accuracy, many offer surprisingly good picture quality for everyday viewing. Full HD (1080p) options like the TCL 32S350G and Vizio D-Series provide noticeably sharper images than 720p models.
Q3. Are these budget TVs suitable for gaming? Some budget TVs are surprisingly capable for casual gaming. The Vizio D-Series offers AMD FreeSync and low input lag, while the Toshiba C350 boasts an impressive 3.1ms input lag. However, they may lack advanced gaming features found on more expensive models.
Q4. How long can I expect a sub-$200 smart TV to last? With proper care, these TVs can last 3-5 years or more. However, their longevity may be shorter than premium models due to lower-quality components. Regular software updates can help maintain functionality over time.
Q5. What are the trade-offs when choosing a TV under $200? Budget TVs often have lower brightness levels, limited viewing angles, and basic sound quality. They may also have fewer HDMI ports and less powerful processors, which can result in slower menu navigation. However, they provide essential smart features and decent picture quality for everyday use.
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