Essential Guide to Buying a TV Under €500 in 2026
Navigating the world of televisions can be challenging, especially when trying to find a model that fits both your needs and budget. Fortunately, there are numerous outstanding options available for under €500. This article will highlight what to look for in a TV, recommend specific models, and point out what features are essential versus what can be overlooked.
Top Recommendation
For excellent picture quality and value, the LG 65UA73006LA stands out. Featuring a sizeable 65-inch screen, this smart TV provides an outstanding viewing experience for movies, sports, and gaming alike. It also supports technologies like multi-screen, enabling you to watch two different contents simultaneously—perfect for choosing a movie while browsing YouTube, for example.
Key Features of the LG 65UA73006LA
- Large Screen Size: 65 inches, perfect for an immersive experience.
- Image Quality: Ten different image modes, including a filmmaker mode tailored for cinematic viewing.
- Dolby Digital Support: Provides a more immersive sound experience.
Must-Have Features
Screen Size
Aim for a screen size between 55 and 65 inches to enhance your viewing experience. Ensure your room can accommodate the TV’s dimensions and that you’re seated at an appropriate distance to avoid pixelation issues.
Image Technologies
Look for TVs that support HDR10+ or Dolby Vision for improved contrast and color accuracy. These technologies enhance the viewing experience, especially for content designed for high-definition formats.
HDMI Ports
For optimal compatibility with gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, ensure your TV has at least one HDMI 2.1 port to support 4K gaming at 120 Hz. This will ensure a smooth gaming experience and high fidelity.
What’s Not Essential
Sound Technologies
While technologies like Dolby Atmos improve audio quality, they’re not critical if you’re planning to invest in an external sound system, like a soundbar.
Operating Systems
The native operating systems in budget TVs often underperform. Devices like dongles or TV Boxes can improve your streaming experience and provide better app compatibility.
Voice Assistants
Though some models offer voice assistant capabilities, this feature usually isn’t a deciding factor. Most users find they don’t utilize this functionality frequently.
Alternatives to Consider
While the LG 65UA73006LA is our top pick, other models also provide exceptional value:
Samsung Crystal UHD U8075F 4K: A 65-inch smart TV with HDR10+ support, priced at around €469. It’s compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa.
LG 65NANO80A6B: A NanoCell technology TV offering rich color enhancement, also around €499, which shares features like the filmmaker mode with the LG 65UA73006LA.
TCL 65V6C: Great for those seeking a robust Google TV experience for approximately €399, including a dedicated gaming mode.
Xiaomi TV F65: Available at €379, this TV offers FireOS, ideal for those familiar with Amazon’s ecosystem.
Conclusion
When searching for a quality television under €500 in 2026, consider essential attributes, such as screen size and image quality. The LG 65UA73006LA offers excellent performance, but alternatives like the Samsung Crystal UHD U8075F and TCL 65V6C also offer great features that might better suit your specific needs.
Selecting a TV is a personal choice, so weigh your preferences against the outlined features to make an informed decision. Happy viewing!
Note: Some links in this article lead to affiliate programs; however, the products were not suggested by any brands or stores.