You Asked: Budget TVs we forgot to mention and the best Roku-powered TV

This week, we are continuing our discussion on the top recommended TVs, following a theme from our previous video. The questions we received from viewers of our last best TVs video have prompted this continuation.

Our previous video covered our picks in three different price tiers. However, there were some gaps pointed out by viewers, so I recommend watching that video as well to get a complete picture.

It’s shopping season, and with the announcement and availability of 2026 TVs approaching, the best 2024 and 2025 TVs could potentially see more discounts in the near future.

Should the Sony Bravia 7 be considered mid-tier?

@bpowick asks: Should the Sony Bravia 7 be included in the mid-tier list? I’m always confused about the opinions of this TV. So many reviewers say it is so close in many ways to the Bravia 9, which many claim is the best mini LED TV you can buy, yet so few reviewers recommend it.

Having seen many of the best TVs since 2023, I believe that the Sony Bravia 7 is a great TV that surpasses what most people have in their homes. It offers great visuals and all the premium features expected in a Mini LED TV. However, when compared to other options in the market, especially with the availability of more compelling alternatives in the 2025 models, the Bravia 7 may not stand out as competitively priced.

With options like the Hisense U8N and U8QG, as well as TCL’s QM8 models, offering brighter displays and better reflection handling, there are more attractive alternatives in the market. Samsung’s top Mini LED options also provide additional features like more HDMI 2.1 ports and a faster refresh rate compared to Sony’s Bravia 7.

Although the Bravia 7 is currently on sale for $1200, making it a more enticing option, its original pricing was not as competitive. While it is a great TV, other models in the market offer better value, making the decision more challenging when recommending the Bravia 7.

Are there top TVs that support Roku?

@aslan-og asks: Are there any top TVs that support Roku? I know it tends to be lower end but I like the interface

The Roku Pro Series TV is a great option for those who prefer the Roku operating system. It is a 4K Mini LED TV with Dolby Vision and HDR 10 Plus support, two HDMI 2.1 ports, a 120Hz refresh rate, and VRR support. Priced at $1200 for the 65-inch variant, it offers a solid viewing experience and is often available at discounted prices.

If you prefer a brighter display and more features, you can opt for pairing a Roku Ultra streaming box with another brand’s TV. This setup will provide you with the same format support, including Dolby Vision, HDR 10 Plus, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Digital Surround.

For more flexibility with gaming consoles and external audio, consider models from Samsung, LG, or Hisense, which offer multiple HDMI 2.1 ports. The Hisense U8QG, in particular, comes with three HDMI 2.1 ports.

What about truly budget TVs and smaller sizes?

@larryhoffman7471 asks: You left out tv’s that are truly budget, like the QM6K or others in its price range or even a bit less. There are many people who want a new tv and $1000.00 is just too much to spend and want a 65” tv. And calling units like the QM7K budget is a bit much. I know the top tier is a lot more, but a $1000.00 65” tv isn’t exactly budget. There are many a lot cheaper. Mentioning a couple of those that aren’t a waste of money, would be helpful for many people. There are so many cheap Samsungs, Hisense and TCL’s etc that people buy. They could use some guidance too.

@borbetomagus asks: How about if one can’t afford the ‘budget’ options you’ve mentioned — or want a more affordable option for a child’s room? Lots of very affordable, lower tier TVs by Hisense, LG, Samsung, TCL (and other brands) that aren’t MiniLED or OLED (that many stores want to unload around Black Friday/Cyber Monday), but rarely are these ‘bare bone’ TVs ever considered. What are the best lower-tier TV options with optimal screen size, image quality, TV OS, processing power, limited advertisements and longevity, but priced between $200-$500? Maybe best budget gaming option or best budget viewing option? Or how about best TV options sized 50\” and under, for smaller spaces?

It’s important to consider a wider range of options when it comes to choosing the best TV, especially for those who are looking for more affordable or smaller-sized models. Let’s address these aspects now.

TVs 50 inches and under

At sizes below 50 inches, premium choices are limited as many brands focus on models larger than 55 inches.

OLED:
The Samsung S90F and LG C5 are still great options at these sizes, offering excellent performance, brightness, and overall quality. The LG B5 is also a good choice for those looking to save money while still getting a premium experience.

Mini LED:
Samsung’s QN90F stands out as one of the few premium Mini LED options in smaller sizes. Hisense, LG, and Sony tend to reserve their top Mini LED models for sizes 55 inches and above.

TCL’s QM5K, available as a Best Buy exclusive, makes some compromises compared to the QM6K to offer a more budget-friendly option while retaining key features.

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