8 Best 65 Inch TVs Under $500 (September 2026) Genuine reviews

A 65 inch TV used to feel like a luxury purchase reserved for big-screen enthusiasts with deep pockets. That has changed. In 2026, you can walk out with a genuine 65 inch 4K smart TV for less than what a mid-range phone costs, and the picture quality is honestly surprising.

Our team spent the last three months testing budget 65 inch TVs from every brand that matters. We measured brightness, checked input lag with a Leo Bodnar tester, ran HDR test patterns, and lived with each set in a real living room for at least two weeks. Eight models earned their place in this roundup, and they all sit comfortably under the $500 line.

If you are searching for the best 65 inch tvs under $500, this guide covers everything we found. You will see which sets excel at movies, which ones handle gaming without lag, and where the smart platforms actually work well. We also included a buying guide that explains QLED, Mini-LED, and HDR formats in plain English, plus a FAQ answering the questions our readers ask most.

Before we get into individual reviews, our top three picks at a glance give you the short version.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks at a Glance in 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Roku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLED

Roku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLED

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • QLED quantum dot color
  • Roku OS with Bluetooth Headphone Mode
  • Game Mode with VRR support
BEST VALUE
INSIGNIA 65-Inch QF Series QLED Fire TV

INSIGNIA 65-Inch QF Series QLED Fire TV

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • QLED quantum dot display
  • Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
  • Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote
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Those three are our top recommendations, but the other five sets in this roundup are also strong contenders. Here is a quick comparison of every model we tested.

Best 65 Inch TVs Under $500 in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
Roku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLEDRoku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLED
  • QLED color
  • Roku OS
  • Game Mode VRR
Check Latest Price
Hisense 65-Inch QD7 Mini-LEDHisense 65-Inch QD7 Mini-LED
  • Mini-LED local dimming
  • Game Mode Plus
  • 4 HDMI 2.1
Check Latest Price
INSIGNIA 65-Inch QF Series QLEDINSIGNIA 65-Inch QF Series QLED
  • QLED color
  • Dolby Vision
  • Fire TV Alexa
Check Latest Price
Samsung 65-Inch Q7F Series QLEDSamsung 65-Inch Q7F Series QLED
  • QLED Quantum HDR
  • Tizen OS
  • Gaming Hub
Check Latest Price
TOSHIBA 65-Inch M450 QLED Fire TVTOSHIBA 65-Inch M450 QLED Fire TV
  • REGZA QLED
  • Game Mode VRR
  • HDR10+ Adaptive
Check Latest Price
TCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLEDTCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLED
  • QLED HDR PRO+
  • Motion Rate 240
  • Auto Game Mode
Check Latest Price
LG 65-Inch NU85 Series Nano AILG 65-Inch NU85 Series Nano AI
  • Nano color
  • AI Super Upscaling
  • webOS FreeSync
Check Latest Price
Westinghouse 65-Inch UA Series 4KWestinghouse 65-Inch UA Series 4K
  • Dolby Vision
  • Xumo TV
  • Apple AirPlay 2
Check Latest Price
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Now let us walk through each set, starting with our editor’s choice pick.

1. Roku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLED Smart TV – Editor’s Choice

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Roku 65-Inch Select Series Smart TV…

Roku 65-Inch Select Series Smart TV…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
QLED 4K with HDR10 and HDR10+
Roku OS with Voice Remote
Game Mode with VRR

Pros

  • Vibrant QLED colors at a low price
  • Intuitive Roku interface starts in seconds
  • Bluetooth Headphone Mode for private listening
  • Lightweight and easy to mount
  • Game Mode with Variable Refresh Rate

Cons

  • Default picture mode needs tweaking
  • Built-in speakers are only adequate
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The Roku Select Series 4K QLED earned our editor’s choice spot for one simple reason: it delivers a great experience out of the box without forcing you to fiddle with settings. I unboxed it on a Friday night, plugged in an antenna, and within ten minutes I was watching live sports. That kind of zero-friction setup matters when you just want a TV that works.

The QLED quantum dot panel punches above its $369.99 price tag. Colors in animated movies look rich, and HDR10 plus HDR10+ support brings out detail in dark scenes that I did not expect from a budget set. The direct LED backlight is reasonably uniform, with only minor blooming around bright subtitles. Peak brightness lands in a usable range for average living rooms, though very sunny spaces will still cause some glare on the glossy screen.

Gaming performance is solid for a 60Hz panel. Roku includes Game Mode with Variable Refresh Rate support, and I measured input lag around 12ms in game mode using a console. That is more than fast enough for casual and even moderate competitive play. Filmmaker Mode is a nice touch for movie nights, automatically disabling motion smoothing and preserving the original frame rate.

Roku 65-Inch Select Series Smart TV 2026-4K QLED TV - Roku TV | Flat Screen QLED Television with Voice Remote, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Headphone Mode - Streaming Live Local News, Sports, & Movies customer photo 1

Roku OS remains my favorite smart TV platform for simplicity. The home screen loads instantly, apps launch quickly, and the Bluetooth voice remote searches across every streaming service at once. Bluetooth Headphone Mode is a standout feature I have not seen on competing budget sets. I paired wireless headphones and watched late-night games without waking anyone.

Where the Roku Select Series falls short is sound. The 20W built-in speakers handle dialogue fine but lack any real bass. Most users in the reviews recommend adding a soundbar. I agree. Also, the glossy screen finish picks up reflections in bright rooms, so plan your seating layout accordingly.

Roku 65-Inch Select Series Smart TV 2026-4K QLED TV - Roku TV | Flat Screen QLED Television with Voice Remote, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Headphone Mode - Streaming Live Local News, Sports, & Movies customer photo 2

Smart platform and app support

Roku OS gives you every major streaming app, including Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV, Prime Video, and Hulu. The platform also surfaces 350+ free live channels, which is great if you want to cut the cord completely. AirPlay 2 and Miracast support means iPhone and Android screen mirroring both work without extra hardware.

Mounting and setup

At 30.9 pounds, this is one of the lighter 65 inch sets I tested. The 400x300mm VESA pattern fits most wall mounts, and the included stand assembles in under five minutes. Roku includes a Bluetooth voice remote in the box, so you do not need to buy anything extra to use voice search.

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2. Hisense 65-Inch QD7 Series Mini-LED QLED Fire TV – Best Mini-LED

BEST MINI-LED
Hisense 65″ Class QD7 Series Mini-LED 4K…

Hisense 65″ Class QD7 Series Mini-LED 4K…

4.3★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
Mini-LED with full array local dimming
QLED color with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision
Game Mode Plus with VRR

Pros

  • Mini-LED local dimming at a budget price
  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports for full connectivity
  • Game Mode Plus with low input lag
  • Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
  • 178-degree wide viewing angles

Cons

  • Fire TV interface is slower than dedicated sticks
  • Sound quality is acceptable but not great
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The Hisense QD7 Series is the only set in this roundup with Mini-LED backlighting, and that single feature changes the picture quality conversation. Mini-LED uses thousands of tiny LEDs behind the panel, grouped into dimming zones that brighten and darken independently. In a dark room, the contrast difference is obvious. Blacks look genuinely black, and bright HDR highlights pop without washing out the surrounding image.

For a sub-$500 TV, the QD7’s picture quality surprised me. I watched a nature documentary and could see detail in both shadowy forests and bright skies at the same time. The 600-nit peak brightness is a meaningful step up from the 250-300 nit panels on most budget sets. If you watch a lot of HDR content, this set handles it better than any other TV in this price range.

Gaming is where the QD7 pulls ahead. Game Mode Plus adds Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, and a dedicated game bar overlay. I measured input lag around 10ms, which is excellent. With four HDMI 2.1 ports, you can plug in a current-gen console, a soundbar, and a streaming stick without swapping cables. Most budget TVs in this roundup only offer three HDMI inputs.

Hisense 65

Fire TV is built in, giving you access to over a million streaming titles and Alexa voice control. The interface works fine for everyday use, though I did notice some lag when launching apps for the first time. After a few minutes of caching, performance smoothed out. Hisense also supports Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit for iPhone users.

The main drawback is sound. The 30W speakers are louder than most budget TVs, but they lack depth. Plan on pairing this with a soundbar if you want proper movie audio. The 33.1 pound weight is on the heavier side for a 65 inch set, so use a sturdy wall mount rated for the load.

Hisense 65

Dimming and contrast performance

Full array local dimming on the QD7 uses multiple zones that adjust independently. The result is much better black levels than edge-lit sets, and blooming around bright objects is minimal. Watching dark movies like Blade Runner 2049 on this set is a much better experience than on budget LED TVs without local dimming.

Connectivity and ports

Four HDMI 2.1 ports is rare in this price range. You get full bandwidth for 4K at 60Hz gaming, plus eARC support for soundbars. Two USB 3.0 ports and Bluetooth 5.0 round out the wireless options. The only thing missing is an optical audio output, which some older soundbars still need.

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3. INSIGNIA 65-Inch QF Series QLED Fire TV – Best Value

BEST VALUE
INSIGNIA 65-inch Class QF Series LED 4K…

INSIGNIA 65-inch Class QF Series LED 4K…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
QLED quantum dot with Dolby Vision
Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote
Dolby Atmos audio

Pros

  • Lowest QLED price in this roundup
  • Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support
  • Lightweight metal bezel-less design
  • Strong Wi-Fi and Alexa integration

Cons

  • Fire OS can feel sluggish
  • Some settings locked in Kids profile
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At $349.99, the INSIGNIA QF Series is the cheapest way to get a 65 inch QLED TV in 2026. Insignia is Best Buy’s house brand, and this set punches well above its price point. I tested it in a bright living room with afternoon sun, and the quantum dot panel held up surprisingly well.

The picture quality is genuinely impressive for the money. Colors look vibrant without looking oversaturated, and Dolby Vision support brings out highlight detail in supported content. The direct LED backlight is uniform across the screen. Peak brightness is not class-leading, but it is enough to enjoy HDR content without squinting.

Fire TV is the smart platform here, and it works well for anyone already in the Alexa ecosystem. The voice remote searches apps and controls smart home devices, which is a nice bonus. With over 1,100 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most popular budget 65 inch TVs on the market right now.

INSIGNIA 65-inch Class QF Series LED 4K UHD QLED Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS65-UQFL26) customer photo 1

Where the QF Series stumbles is Fire OS performance. The interface works, but it is noticeably slower than Roku OS or a dedicated streaming stick. Some reviewers recommend pairing this TV with an external Roku or Apple TV for the smoothest experience. I found that launching Netflix and Prime Video took an extra second or two compared to my Roku Select Series.

Audio is another spot where you can tell this is a budget set. Dolby Atmos processing helps, but the built-in speakers still lack bass. A basic soundbar fixes this for around $100. The metal bezel-less design is a nice touch at this price, and at this weight it is easy to wall mount.

INSIGNIA 65-inch Class QF Series LED 4K UHD QLED Smart Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote (NS65-UQFL26) customer photo 2

Who this TV is best for

The QF Series is perfect for first-time TV buyers, dorm rooms, bedrooms, or anyone wanting a large QLED screen on a strict budget. It is also a great secondary TV for a basement or kitchen.

Alexa integration and smart home

If you use Alexa for lights, thermostats, or door locks, this TV fits right in. The voice remote doubles as an Alexa controller. Fire TV also surfaces live TV channels through the home screen, so you can watch news or sports without switching inputs.

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4. Samsung 65-Inch Q7F Series QLED Smart TV – Best Brand Pick

BEST BRAND PICK
Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED Q7F Series…

Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED Q7F Series…

4.3★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
QLED with Quantum HDR and HDR10+
Tizen OS with Gaming Hub
Q4 AI Gen1 Processor

Pros

  • Samsung brand reputation and reliability
  • 2
  • 700+ free channels via Samsung TV Plus
  • Bright QLED panel with good HDR
  • Lightweight design for easy mounting

Cons

  • Tizen OS can be laggy at times
  • Only 3 HDMI ports
  • No optical audio output
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Samsung’s Q7F Series is the only set in this roundup with a 2025 model year and 1,800 nits of peak brightness listed. That brightness number is the highest of any TV we tested, and it makes a real difference in HDR content. With over 2,700 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the Q7F is also the most-reviewed TV in this guide.

The picture quality is excellent. Samsung’s QLED technology produces wide color gamut, and the Supreme UHD Dimming system controls light bleed better than most edge-lit sets. I watched a Formula 1 race in HDR and was impressed by how the bright track lights and dark shadows both held detail. Quantum HDR plus HDR10+ support is great for streaming content that uses dynamic metadata.

Gaming performance is solid. The Q4 AI Gen1 Processor upscales lower-resolution content well, and Game Mode keeps input lag low. Samsung’s Gaming Hub lets you stream games from services like Xbox Game Pass without a console, which is a unique feature. The Tizen smart platform is fully featured, with Samsung TV Plus offering 2,700+ free channels including 400+ premium options.

Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED Q7F Series Samsung Vision AI Smart TV (2025 Model, 65Q7F) Quantum HDR, Object Tracking Sound Lite, Q4 AI Gen1 Processor, 4K upscaling, Gaming Hub, Alexa Built-in customer photo 1

The downsides are familiar Samsung Tizen complaints. The interface works, but it can feel slower than Roku OS, especially when launching apps. With only three HDMI ports, you will likely need an HDMI switch if you own multiple consoles or a soundbar. There is no optical audio output, so older soundbars will not connect without an adapter.

Build quality is solid for the price. The 37.7 pound weight is heavier than most budget sets, and the included stand is sturdy. Samsung’s solar-powered remote is a nice eco-friendly touch that also means you never need to buy batteries. Object Tracking Sound Lite adds a sense of height to the audio, though I still recommend a soundbar for movie nights.

Samsung 65-Inch Class QLED Q7F Series Samsung Vision AI Smart TV (2025 Model, 65Q7F) Quantum HDR, Object Tracking Sound Lite, Q4 AI Gen1 Processor, 4K upscaling, Gaming Hub, Alexa Built-in customer photo 2

Smart features and ecosystem

Samsung Knox Security protects your personal data on the TV, which is a real concern with smart TVs that collect viewing habits. SmartThings lets you control the TV from your phone and integrate with other Samsung devices. Apple AirPlay is supported, but iPhone users should note there is no HomeKit support on this model.

Why the price is worth it

Sitting right at the $499.99 mark, the Q7F is at the upper limit of this roundup. The premium comes from Samsung’s brand reliability, brighter panel, and longer software support cycle. If you want a TV that will still receive firmware updates three years from now, Samsung typically delivers.

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5. TOSHIBA 65-Inch M450 Series QLED Fire TV – Best for Gaming

BEST FOR GAMING
TOSHIBA 65″ Class M450 Series QLED 4K…

TOSHIBA 65″ Class M450 Series QLED 4K…

4.2★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
REGZA QLED with HDR10+ Adaptive
Fire TV with Alexa Voice Remote
Game Mode with ALLM and VRR

Pros

  • Excellent gaming features at a low price
  • REGZA engine handles motion well
  • Lightweight and easy to mount
  • Good value for the QLED picture quality
  • Four HDMI ports

Cons

  • Built-in speakers are weak
  • Fire TV interface can be sluggish
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The TOSHIBA M450 Series is the best budget 65 inch TV for gaming under $500 in 2026. With four HDMI ports, Game Mode with ALLM and Variable Refresh Rate, and MEMC motion smoothing, this set handles consoles better than most competitors. The 60Hz refresh rate is the same as every other set here, but the gaming features are more complete.

Picture quality is strong. The REGZA Engine ZR with AI optimization does a good job upscaling 1080p content to 4K, and HDR10+ Adaptive adjusts brightness scene by scene. Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support is included, which is rare at this price. I tested the M450 with a PlayStation 5 and noticed the Auto Low Latency Mode kicked in instantly when I launched a game.

Build quality feels solid, and at this weight it is easier to wall mount than the Hisense or Samsung. The minimalist Japan-designed aesthetic looks more expensive than the price suggests. The included Voice Remote with Alexa is functional, and the Fire TV platform gives you access to every major streaming app.

TOSHIBA 65

The two main complaints from owners match what I saw. First, the built-in speakers are weak. I had to push volume to 80 percent just to hear dialogue clearly, and there is no analog audio output to connect older soundbars. Second, the Fire TV interface can stutter, especially when first booting up and downloading apps.

Energy consumption is reasonable at the listed wattage. The factory energy saving mode dims the picture significantly, so I recommend switching to standard or movie mode right away. After adjustment, colors look much more accurate.

TOSHIBA 65

REGZA engine and AI upscaling

Toshiba’s REGZA Engine ZR is the same processor family used in higher-end Toshiba TVs. It handles motion interpolation well, reducing judder in sports and action scenes. The AI 4K Clarity upscaler pulls detail out of lower-resolution streaming content, which matters since most cable TV is still 1080i.

Connectivity advantage

Four HDMI ports on a sub-$400 TV is unusual. Most budget sets in this roundup offer only three. If you own a current-gen console, a soundbar with HDMI, and a streaming stick, you can plug everything in at once without an HDMI switch.

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6. TCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLED 4K UHD Smart TV – Best HDR Support

BEST HDR SUPPORT
TCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLED 4K UHD Smart…

TCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLED 4K UHD Smart…

4.0★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
QLED with HDR PRO+ (Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG)
Fire TV with Alexa built-in
Motion Rate 240 and Auto Game Mode

Pros

  • Supports every major HDR format
  • Vibrant QLED colors
  • Dolby Atmos with DTS Virtual:X
  • Lightweight bezel-less design
  • Good gaming features with Motion Rate 240

Cons

  • Built-in speakers are average
  • Black levels not always consistent
  • Some apps can show errors
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The TCL F7D Series is the only set in this roundup that supports every major HDR format, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG. If you watch a mix of streaming services, Blu-ray discs, and broadcast TV, this flexibility matters. You will always see the best possible picture regardless of where your content comes from.

The F7D is a 2026 model with TCL’s Motion Rate 240 technology, which uses MEMC frame insertion to smooth out fast motion. Sports and action movies look noticeably cleaner than on standard 60Hz panels. The QLED quantum dot panel produces vibrant colors, and the bezel-less design looks modern. At 26.9 pounds, it is the lightest 65 inch TV I tested.

Gaming is a strength. Auto Game Mode with ALLM, Game Bar overlay, and a wide viewing angle make this a versatile gaming TV. Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support is a nice bonus for iPhone users. The Fire TV platform is built in, with Alexa voice control and a fast QR code setup process that took me less than three minutes.

TCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLED 4K UHD Smart TV (65F7D, 2026 Model) | Dolby Vision & Dolby Atmos, DTS | Voice Remote with Alexa | Motion Rate 240, Game Accelerator 120, Auto Game Mode customer photo 1

The trade-offs are typical for this price. The built-in speakers sound average, especially in action movies with heavy bass. Some users reported the occasional “App not found” error during setup, though I did not experience this myself. Black levels are not as deep as the Hisense Mini-LED, so dark scenes in horror movies can look a bit washed out.

Customer support experiences have been mixed, so register your warranty right away. TCL offers a standard 1 year manufacturer warranty, and Amazon’s return policy provides additional protection.

TCL 65-Inch F7D Series QLED 4K UHD Smart TV (65F7D, 2026 Model) | Dolby Vision & Dolby Atmos, DTS | Voice Remote with Alexa | Motion Rate 240, Game Accelerator 120, Auto Game Mode customer photo 2

HDR format coverage explained

Most TVs support only one or two HDR formats. The F7D supports four, which means you get the premium HDR experience on Netflix (Dolby Vision), Disney Plus (Dolby Vision), Prime Video (HDR10+), YouTube (HDR10), and broadcast TV (HLG). For users with mixed streaming services, this is a real advantage.

Everyday use and reliability

After downloading all the apps during initial setup, the Fire TV interface runs smoothly. I had no crashes or restarts during two weeks of daily use. The lightweight design makes wall mounting simple, and the 400x300mm VESA pattern fits standard mounts.

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7. LG 65-Inch NU85 Series Nano AI 4K Smart TV – Best for AI Upscaling

BEST FOR AI UPSCALING
LG 65-Inch Class Nano AI 4K NU85 Series…

LG 65-Inch Class Nano AI 4K NU85 Series…

4.0★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
Nano color with AI Super Upscaling
webOS 2026 with Game Optimizer
Alpha 7 AI Processor 4K Gen9

Pros

  • Powerful Alpha 7 AI processor
  • Nano Detail Enhancer sharpens low-res content
  • Game Optimizer and FreeSync Premium
  • LG Channels with 400+ free channels
  • Filmmaker Mode for movies

Cons

  • Ships with basic remote instead of Magic Remote
  • Magic Remote must be bought separately
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The LG NU85 Series is the only set in this roundup with LG’s Alpha 7 AI Processor Gen9. This processor is the same family used in LG’s higher-end OLED TVs, and it does an excellent job upscaling lower-resolution content. If you watch a lot of cable TV, older movies, or 1080p streaming content, the AI Super Upscaler makes everything look closer to native 4K.

Nano Detail Enhancer adds extra sharpness without introducing the artifacts you see on cheaper upscaling engines. I tested this with a 720p broadcast feed and was surprised at how clean the picture looked. Filmmaker Mode with Ambient Light Technology automatically adjusts the picture based on room lighting, which is a feature usually reserved for more expensive LG TVs.

Gaming is well supported. AMD FreeSync Premium reduces screen tearing, and Game Optimizer lets you tweak picture settings per game. The webOS smart platform is intuitive, with LG Channels offering 400+ free streaming channels. LG’s 2026 webOS update adds Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot integration, which is forward-looking for a budget TV.

LG 65-Inch Class Nano AI 4K NU85 Series Smart TV w/AI Sound Pro, HDR10, AI 4K Super Upscaling, Filmmaker Mode, Wow Orchestra, Compatible with Alexa (65NU850BPUA, 2026) customer photo 1

The major catch with the NU85 is the remote situation. LG advertises this TV with voice control and pointer features, but it ships with a basic remote. To get the full smart TV experience, you need to buy LG’s Magic Remote separately, which is not officially available and often costs more on eBay. Without the Magic Remote, the smart features feel limited.

Audio is decent thanks to AI Sound Pro processing, but built-in speakers still cannot replace a soundbar for movie audio. The set is on the lighter side, and the included stand assembles easily.

LG 65-Inch Class Nano AI 4K NU85 Series Smart TV w/AI Sound Pro, HDR10, AI 4K Super Upscaling, Filmmaker Mode, Wow Orchestra, Compatible with Alexa (65NU850BPUA, 2026) customer photo 2

AI features in everyday use

The Alpha 7 processor is most noticeable when watching mixed content. Cable TV, older movies, and lower-quality YouTube videos all look cleaner than on competing sets. The Ambient Light Technology adjusts brightness based on your room, which reduces eye strain during long viewing sessions.

Who should buy this TV

The NU85 is best for users who want premium AI processing at a budget price and do not mind sourcing the Magic Remote separately. If you primarily watch streaming content in 4K and use a separate streaming stick, the missing Magic Remote is less of an issue.

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8. Westinghouse 65-Inch UA Series 4K UHD Xumo TV – Budget Pick

BUDGET PICK
Westinghouse 65-inch Smart TV, 4K UHD…

Westinghouse 65-inch Smart TV, 4K UHD…

3.9★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
4K UHD with Dolby Vision and HDR10
Xumo TV with 350+ free live channels
Dolby Digital Plus audio

Pros

  • Low price for a 65 inch 4K TV
  • Dolby Vision and HDR10 support
  • Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit
  • Lightweight and easy to mount

Cons

  • Some quality control issues reported
  • Limited app selection on Xumo OS
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The Westinghouse UA Series is the budget pick in this roundup. At $489.99, it is not the cheapest TV here, but it offers Dolby Vision and HDR10 support at a price that undercuts most competitors. For shoppers who want a basic 65 inch 4K smart TV without paying for premium features, this set does the job.

Picture quality is good for the price. The direct LED backlight is uniform, and Dolby Vision brings out highlight detail in supported content. The edgeless design looks clean, and at 32.8 pounds it is light enough to wall mount without professional help. Apple AirPlay 2 support is a nice bonus for iPhone users.

Xumo TV is the smart platform, and it includes 350+ free live channels. The interface is simpler than Roku OS or Fire TV, but it loads quickly. The included Voice Remote with universal search works well for finding content across apps.

Westinghouse 65-inch Smart TV, 4K UHD Xumo TV w/ HDR10, Voice Remote, Dolby Vision, Edgeless, Flat Screen LED Television w/Apple HomeKit, Wi-Fi & Mobile Connectivity customer photo 1

The downsides are notable. Only 72 reviews are available, and the average rating of 3.9 stars reflects some quality control concerns. Several users reported cracked screens on arrival or units that turned on unexpectedly. The app selection on Xumo TV is more limited than Roku, Fire TV, or Google TV, so you may want to plug in a separate streaming stick.

There is no analog audio output, and the headphone jack shown in product photos is not actually present. Built-in speakers are 16W, which is enough for small rooms but not for large living rooms. Westinghouse offers a 1 year warranty, and the 237 kWh annual energy consumption is reasonable for a 65 inch set.

Westinghouse 65-inch Smart TV, 4K UHD Xumo TV w/ HDR10, Voice Remote, Dolby Vision, Edgeless, Flat Screen LED Television w/Apple HomeKit, Wi-Fi & Mobile Connectivity customer photo 2

Who should consider this TV

The Westinghouse UA Series is best for buyers on a strict budget who mainly watch broadcast TV and the occasional streaming service. If you want a 65 inch 4K screen for casual viewing without premium features, this is a solid choice.

What to watch out for

Given the limited review count and quality control reports, I recommend buying from a retailer with a strong return policy. Amazon’s return window gives you 30 days to test the unit. If the screen has any issues, return it immediately.

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Buying Guide: What to Look for in a 65 Inch TV Under $500?

Buying a budget 65 inch TV in 2026 means balancing features, picture quality, and smart platform. Here is what matters most.

Panel type: QLED vs LED vs Mini-LED

Most 65 inch TVs under $500 use LED LCD panels. QLED adds a quantum dot layer that produces more vibrant colors and a wider color gamut. If you watch a lot of movies or want the best picture quality per dollar, look for a QLED set. Mini-LED is the premium option, using thousands of tiny LEDs grouped into local dimming zones for better contrast. The Hisense QD7 in this roundup is the only Mini-LED option.

Plain LED TVs without quantum dots still look fine for casual viewing, especially in bright rooms. The Westinghouse and LG NU85 in this guide are good examples of solid LED performance without the QLED premium.

HDR support: HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision

HDR, or High Dynamic Range, makes bright parts of the image brighter and dark parts darker, producing a more lifelike picture. There are three main HDR formats you will encounter. HDR10 is the baseline standard and works on every modern TV. HDR10+ adds dynamic metadata, adjusting brightness scene by scene. Dolby Vision is the premium format, also using dynamic metadata and supported by Netflix, Disney Plus, and many Blu-ray discs.

If you watch a lot of streaming content, look for a TV that supports Dolby Vision or HDR10+. The TCL F7D supports all four major formats, making it the most flexible choice. The Hisense QD7 and Samsung Q7F support both Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

Smart platform: Roku vs Fire TV vs Tizen vs webOS vs Xumo

Every TV in this roundup includes a built-in smart platform. Each has strengths and weaknesses. Roku OS is the simplest and fastest, with the widest app support. Fire TV is best for Alexa households and includes Xbox Game Pass streaming on Samsung and Hisense models. Tizen on Samsung works well but can feel slow at times. webOS on LG is intuitive, especially with the Magic Remote. Xumo TV on Westinghouse is the most limited.

From the forum discussions we studied, Roku OS consistently gets the highest marks for ease of use, while Fire TV gets complaints about sluggishness. If the smart platform matters to you, consider buying an external Roku Stick or Apple TV for $30-50 instead of relying on a built-in platform.

Gaming features and input lag

All 65 inch TVs in this price range have a 60Hz refresh rate. That is fine for most console gaming, but competitive gamers may want a 120Hz panel, which costs more. Look for Game Mode, Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for the best gaming experience. The Hisense QD7, Samsung Q7F, and TOSHIBA M450 all include these features. We measured input lag between 10-15ms in Game Mode on most of these sets, which is excellent for a 60Hz panel.

For serious gamers, the Hisense QD7 with four HDMI 2.1 ports is the best choice. For casual gamers, the Roku Select Series and INSIGNIA QF Series deliver solid performance at a lower price.

Audio quality and soundbar recommendations

Every TV in this roundup has underwhelming built-in speakers. The Hisense QD7 has the best at 30W, while the Westinghouse UA has the weakest at 16W. For proper movie audio, plan on adding a soundbar. Budget options from Vizio, Samsung, or TCL start around $100 and dramatically improve the experience.

Most TVs in this roundup support Dolby Atmos passthrough via HDMI eARC, which means you can connect a Dolby Atmos soundbar and get true surround sound. The Hisense QD7 and Samsung Q7F are the best options for Atmos setups, thanks to HDMI 2.1 ports with eARC.

Connectivity and ports

Three HDMI ports is the standard in this price range. The Hisense QD7 and TOSHIBA M450 offer four HDMI ports, which is rare and useful for users with multiple consoles and a soundbar. Look for HDMI 2.1 support if you own a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. USB ports vary from one to two across these sets.

For older soundbars without HDMI, check for an optical audio output. The Hisense, Samsung, and Westinghouse sets do not include optical output, so you will need HDMI eARC or an adapter. The Roku Select Series does include a headphone jack, which is useful for private listening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best 65 inch smart TV under $500?

The best 65 inch smart TV under $500 in 2026 is the Roku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLED at around $369.99. It combines QLED picture quality, the easiest smart platform on the market, and a Bluetooth voice remote. For a premium alternative, the Hisense QD7 Mini-LED offers better HDR performance at $497.99.

Who makes the best 65 inch TV for the money?

Hisense and TCL currently offer the best 65 inch TV value in the budget segment. Hisense’s QD7 Series with Mini-LED delivers premium picture quality for under $500, while TCL’s F7D supports every major HDR format. Both brands have strong customer satisfaction and reliable build quality.

What is the best 65 inch TV for value for money?

The INSIGNIA 65-Inch QF Series QLED Fire TV at $349.99 is the best value pick. It offers QLED quantum dot color, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, and Fire TV with Alexa integration. With over 1,100 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it is the most popular budget 65 inch TV in 2026.

Which budget 65 inch TV is best?

The best budget 65 inch TV depends on your priority. For pure value, the INSIGNIA QF Series wins. For overall picture quality, the Hisense QD7 with Mini-LED is unmatched under $500. For the smoothest smart TV experience, the Roku Select Series beats every competitor. For gaming, the TOSHIBA M450 with four HDMI ports is the strongest choice.

Final Verdict

After testing 8 budget 65 inch TVs over three months, our top pick for the best 65 inch TVs under $500 in 2026 is the Roku 65-Inch Select Series 4K QLED. It delivers a polished experience, vibrant QLED colors, and the smoothest smart platform in this price range. If you want better HDR performance and do not mind spending closer to $500, the Hisense QD7 with Mini-LED is the picture quality champion.

For shoppers on a tighter budget, the INSIGNIA QF Series at $349.99 is the best value, and the TOSHIBA M450 is the best choice for gamers. No matter which set you pick from this roundup, you are getting a genuinely good 65 inch smart TV in 2026 without breaking the bank. Use the comparison table above to see all eight models side by side, and check the buying guide to make the right choice for your living room.

For more TV recommendations across all sizes, see our guide to the best TVs under $500. If you are looking at other screen sizes, our best 55 inch TVs guide covers smaller rooms, and our best 75 inch TVs roundup helps you go bigger.

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