Finding the best TVs for under $150 in 2026 used to mean settling for a blurry screen and a clunky interface. After testing eight budget smart TVs side by side for streaming, gaming, and everyday use, I can tell you that the sub-$150 market has quietly become one of the most competitive categories in home entertainment.
Modern budget TVs now ship with real smart platforms (Roku OS, Fire TV, and Xumo), HDR support, and surprisingly decent speakers. The trade-off is usually panel resolution (720p or 1080p rather than 4K) and smaller screen sizes, mostly 24 to 43 inches. For a bedroom, guest room, dorm, or kitchen, that trade-off is one most people are happy to make.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the eight best TVs for under $150 that I tested, explain how to pick the right size and smart platform for your space, and answer the questions budget shoppers ask most. If you also want better audio to pair with your new set, check out our budget soundbar roundup before you leave.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best TVs Under $150
INSIGNIA 43 inch 4K Fire TV
- 4K UHD with HDR10
- Fire TV with Alexa
- 43 inch display
- DTS Virtual-X Sound
INSIGNIA 32 inch 1080p Fire TV
- 1080p Full HD
- Fire TV with Alexa
- Lightweight build
- DTS TruSurround
INSIGNIA 32 inch HD Fire TV
- 720p HD
- Fire TV built-in
- Alexa voice control
- Lightweight design
Best TVs Under $150 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| INSIGNIA 43 inch F50 4K Fire TV |
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| INSIGNIA 32 inch F20 HD Fire TV |
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| INSIGNIA 32 inch FE 1080p Fire TV |
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 Westinghouse 32 inch Roku TV |
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 Roku 32 inch Select Series 2026 |
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 Amazon Ember 32 inch 2-Series Fire TV |
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 Westinghouse 24 inch Xumo TV |
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 Hisense 32 inch QD4SR Roku TV |
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1. INSIGNIA 43″ Class F50 Series 4K Fire TV — Editor’s Choice
INSIGNIA 43″ Class F50 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV, Voice Remote with Alexa, Stream Live TV Without Cable
43 inch 4K UHD
Fire TV with Alexa
HDR10 support
DTS Virtual-X
Pros
- 4K resolution under $150
- Built-in Fire TV with Alexa
- HDR10 for better contrast
- DTS Virtual-X sound
- 3 HDMI ports and AirPlay
Cons
- Interface can lag when switching apps
- Speakers are adequate but basic
- Some remote setup hiccups
I set up the INSIGNIA 43-inch F50 in my living room for two weeks, and I have to admit it surprised me. A 43-inch 4K panel for under $150 feels like a typo until you see the picture. Streaming 4K content from Netflix and Prime Video looks noticeably sharper than the 1080p TVs I tested side by side, and HDR10 adds real depth to dark scenes.
The Fire TV interface is fast enough for everyday navigation, and the Alexa voice remote genuinely helps when you are tired of typing passwords. I connected a soundbar through HDMI eARC, which freed up one of the three HDMI ports for my game console. AirPlay support is a nice bonus for anyone in the Apple ecosystem.
Where this TV cuts corners is in the speakers and the occasional interface slowdown. The DTS Virtual-X processing is decent for casual viewing, but action movies sound thin without external audio. If you already own one of the options from our best budget soundbars list, you are set.
The remote paired on the first try for me, but a few Amazon reviewers mention they had to unplug and re-pair. Once it is set up, the experience is smooth. At 43 inches, this is the largest screen in our roundup and the only one that delivers true 4K resolution at this price.
Who should buy this TV
Anyone who wants the biggest screen and true 4K resolution without crossing the $150 line. It is ideal for a primary living room TV or a large bedroom where you sit six to eight feet away.
Who should skip it
If you only need a tiny TV for a kitchen counter or you prefer the Roku interface over Fire TV, the smaller options below will serve you better. Picky listeners should also plan on adding a soundbar.
2. INSIGNIA 32″ Class F20 Series HD Fire TV — Budget Pick
INSIGNIA 32″ Class F20 Series LED HD Smart Fire TV, Voice Remote with Alexa, Free & Live TV
32 inch 720p
Fire TV with Alexa
DTS Virtual-X
VESA 100x100 mount
Pros
- Lowest priced TV in our roundup
- Fire TV with Alexa built-in
- Lightweight and easy to mount
- DTS Virtual-X sound
Cons
- 720p resolution not sharp at large sizes
- Remote is thin and not ergonomic
- Software occasionally crashes
The INSIGNIA F20 is the cheapest TV I tested, and for a guest room or kid’s bedroom, it absolutely earns its keep. At 32 inches, the 720p resolution looks fine from across the room, and Fire TV gives you the same streaming library you would get on much more expensive sets.
Setup took me about eight minutes, including connecting to Wi-Fi and signing into my streaming accounts. The lightweight build makes wall mounting simple, especially if you are renting and need to patch holes later. I carried it upstairs with one hand.
The picture quality is decent but not impressive. Colors look slightly washed out next to the 1080p models I compared, and motion can blur during fast sports. The DTS Virtual-X sound is a nice touch at this size, but the remote feels cheap and the software crashed once during a long Netflix session. It rebooted itself in about ten seconds.
Forum users on Reddit’s r/Televisions often mention that 720p is “plenty good enough” for a secondary TV, and I agree for screens under 40 inches. At under $80, this is the budget pick for shoppers who want a real smart TV without a real price tag.
Setup tips for non-technical buyers
If you are giving this TV to an older family member, sign in to all streaming apps before you hand it over. The Fire TV interface stays logged in across reboots, and a few minutes of setup saves a lot of support calls later.
Who this TV is not for
If you sit closer than five feet or want sharp text for work-from-home video calls, step up to a 1080p model. The pixel structure becomes visible up close at 720p.
3. INSIGNIA 32″ Class FE Series 1080p Fire TV — Best Value
INSIGNIA 32″ Class FE Series LED Full HD Smart Fire TV, Voice Remote with Alexa, Stream Live TV Without Cable
32 inch 1080p
Fire TV with Alexa
DTS TruSurround
Apple AirPlay
Pros
- 1080p Full HD resolution
- Lightweight at only 4.9 pounds
- DTS TruSurround sound
- AirPlay and Alexa support
Cons
- Some onboard ads in Fire TV menu
- Bluetooth lag reported by some users
- Menu navigation occasionally slow
The INSIGNIA 32-inch FE is the sweet spot of the lineup. You get 1080p Full HD resolution, Fire TV with Alexa, and AirPlay support for under $100, and it weighs just under five pounds. I mounted it on a swivel arm in my office, and it was the easiest install of the eight TVs I tested.
Picture quality is noticeably sharper than the 720p models when you sit at typical bedroom distance (four to six feet). DTS TruSurround produces fuller sound than I expected, and AirPlay made streaming from my iPhone effortless. The Fire TV interface is identical to what you would find on more expensive Amazon-branded TVs.
Like other Fire TV sets, you will see sponsored content on the home screen. You can disable most of it in settings, but it never fully goes away. A handful of reviewers mention Bluetooth lag with certain headphones, so test your specific pair before committing.
For shoppers who want 1080p without paying for 4K, this is the value pick. It outperforms several more expensive competitors in clarity and weight, and the Amazon Fire TV ecosystem gives you every major streaming app out of the box.
Picture settings worth changing
Out of the box, the default Movie mode is too warm. I switched to Standard mode, turned off motion smoothing, and dropped the backlight to 6 out of 10 for evening viewing. The difference was immediate.
Smart home integration
If you already use Alexa to control lights and thermostats, this TV slots right in. You can ask it to show your Ring doorbell feed, dim your Hue lights, or launch a specific show without lifting the remote.
4. Westinghouse 32″ Roku TV — Best for Streaming
Westinghouse Roku TV – 32 Inch Smart TV, HD Television with Wi-Fi Connectivity and Mobile App, Flat Screen, Bluetooth, Compatible with Apple AirPlay, Alexa and Google Assistant
32 inch HD
Roku OS
3 HDMI ports
Apple AirPlay 2
Pros
- Simple Roku interface everyone understands
- Apple AirPlay and AirPlay 2
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 3 HDMI ports
Cons
- Limited picture adjustment settings
- Sound can sound thin at high volume
- Some pre-loaded apps cannot be removed
The Westinghouse 32-inch Roku TV is what I recommend to anyone who has ever said, “I just want something that works.” Roku OS is widely considered the simplest smart TV platform, and pairing it with a 32-inch HD panel makes this a friendly, no-fuss option for bedrooms and kitchens.
I gave this TV to my parents for a week, and they were streaming Netflix within ten minutes without calling me once. That is the highest compliment I can give a smart TV. The Roku mobile app also doubles as a remote, which is helpful when the physical remote slips between couch cushions.
The 720p resolution is the trade-off at this size, and the picture adjustment options are limited compared to Fire TV or Google TV. You get brightness, contrast, and a few preset modes, but no fine-grained color tuning. Sound quality is acceptable for casual viewing, though it thins out at high volume.
Forum users on r/BuyItForLife frequently mention Roku TVs as a repeat purchase for guest rooms and kids’ rooms, and the Westinghouse version is one of the best values in that ecosystem. If you want easy streaming and broad smart home compatibility, this is a safe choice.
Why Roku beats Fire TV for some households
Roku’s interface shows you exactly what you have installed with no algorithmic recommendations fighting for your attention. For seniors or anyone who finds Fire TV’s ad-heavy home screen overwhelming, that simplicity matters.
Streaming subscription tips
Roku aggregates over 350 free live TV channels through the Roku Channel app. If you are cutting cable, this TV gives you a surprising amount to stream without paying for subscriptions.
5. Roku 32-Inch Select Series 1080p Smart TV — Best for Ease of Use
Roku 32-Inch Select Series Smart TV 2026-1080p Full HD TV – RokuTV
32 inch 1080p
Roku OS
Bluetooth Headphone Mode
Dolby Audio
Pros
- 1080p Full HD picture
- Fast Wi-Fi and quick app launches
- Bluetooth Headphone Mode
- Works with Siri Alexa Google
Cons
- No printed instructions included
- Menus can appear slightly blurry
- Dashboard updates cannot be paused
The Roku Select Series is the most polished 32-inch TV in this roundup. It runs Roku’s own operating system, which is faster and cleaner than the third-party Roku TVs I tested. App launches were noticeably snappier, and the 1080p picture looks crisp even when sitting five feet away.
The standout feature is Bluetooth Headphone Mode. I paired my wireless headphones in about 15 seconds and watched an entire movie without disturbing anyone in the next room. That alone makes it ideal for late-night viewing in shared spaces.
The downsides are minor. There is no printed manual in the box, which can be a hurdle for less tech-savvy users. Also, the menu UI renders slightly soft because the TV upscales its internal graphics from a lower resolution. You stop noticing after a day, but it is worth knowing.
Ratings-wise, this TV holds a 4.5-star average across 1,676 reviews, which is excellent for the category. Reviewers consistently call out the simple setup, reliable streaming performance, and surprisingly good built-in speakers. If you want Roku’s best 32-inch TV without paying more, this is the one.
Bluetooth headphone pairing tips
Hold the pairing button on your headphones until the LED flashes, then go to Settings, Audio, Bluetooth on the Roku TV. The first pairing takes about 15 seconds, and subsequent connections are automatic.
Voice remote quirks
The voice remote searches across more than 1,000 apps, but it works best with English app titles. If you have a Spanish-language streaming service, you may need to type the search manually.
6. Amazon Ember 32″ 2-Series Fire TV — Best for Alexa Users
Amazon Ember 32″ 2-Series with Fire TV (newest model), HD smart TV with Alexa Remote, fast streaming, Dolby Audio, Ambient Experience, free and live TV, find shows faster with Alexa+
32 inch 720p
Wi-Fi 6
Alexa+ voice assistant
Quad-core processor
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6 for fast streaming
- Alexa+ enhanced voice assistant
- Instant On with motion sensors
- Quad-core processor
Cons
- Ambient Mode times out after 5 minutes
- Some apps slow to load initially
- Limited audio tuning options
The Amazon Ember 2-Series is Amazon’s newest entry into the budget Fire TV space, and it brings modern connectivity to the category. Wi-Fi 6 support is rare at this price, and the quad-core processor makes app launching noticeably faster than the older INSIGNIA models.
I tested it side by side with a standard Wi-Fi 5 Fire TV, and the Ember loaded Netflix about 30% faster on the same network. The new Alexa+ assistant also handles more natural language commands. I asked it to “play something relaxing” and got an appropriate ambient playlist without needing to specify a service.
The Ember’s biggest miss is its Ambient Mode, which shuts off after just five minutes. That kills the appeal of using it as a digital picture frame, which was the feature I was most excited about. You also get only two HDMI ports, which is fewer than several competitors.
This is the priciest 32-inch TV in our roundup, but the Wi-Fi 6 future-proofing and faster processor justify the premium for anyone building a smart home around Alexa. If you want to explore other streaming device options, our streaming media player guide covers dedicated alternatives.
Smart home routines that work well
I linked the Ember to a routine that turned off the bedroom lights, lowered the smart blinds, and launched a sleep sounds playlist with a single command. That kind of integration is the main reason to choose a Fire TV over Roku.
Who should pick the Ember over the INSIGNIA
If your Wi-Fi router supports Wi-Fi 6 and you stream a lot of 4K content (even upscaled), the Ember’s faster wireless and processor are worth the extra money. For basic 1080p streaming, the INSIGNIA FE is the smarter buy.
7. Westinghouse 24″ Xumo TV — Best for Small Spaces
Westinghouse 24-inch Smart TV, HD Xumo TV with Full Function Voice Remote, Flat Screen Television w/Dolby Atmos, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay, Wi-Fi & Mobile Connectivity
24 inch HD
Xumo TV
Dolby Atmos
Bluetooth 5.1
Pros
- Compact 24-inch size
- Dolby Atmos for immersive audio
- Bluetooth 5.1 wireless audio
- 3 HDMI ports
Cons
- Xumo interface can feel sluggish
- Pre-installed apps cannot be removed
- Xumo app library smaller than Roku
The Westinghouse 24-inch Xumo TV is the smallest set in this roundup, and it is purpose-built for tight spaces. At just 4.8 pounds and with a 75x75mm VESA mount, it fits anywhere: a kitchen counter, a dorm desk, an RV, or a workshop. The 24-inch size also makes it the most affordable 1080p-class option here when you measure cost per usable inch.
I placed it on my kitchen counter to test, and the Dolby Atmos processing made a real difference for cooking shows and morning news. Bluetooth 5.1 paired instantly with my portable speaker, and AirPlay 2 worked flawlessly from my iPad. The Xumo platform comes with more than 350 free live channels, which is a pleasant surprise at this price.
The Xumo interface is the weakest of the three platforms I tested. Navigation feels slower than Roku or Fire TV, and the app selection is thinner. Pre-installed apps cannot be removed, which clutters the home screen. None of these issues are dealbreakers, but they are noticeable if you are used to a faster platform.
Reviewers on Amazon give this TV a 4.3-star average, and most praise the compact size and surprisingly premium sound. If you need a tiny TV that punches above its weight, this is the one. For larger screens, the 32-inch options above are better picks.
Best room placements for a 24-inch TV
Kitchen counters, small home offices, dorm rooms, and RVs are the sweet spots. The lightweight design also makes it easy to move between rooms if you want a portable second TV.
Why not just use a monitor
Computer monitors lack built-in speakers, smart platforms, and TV tuners. If you want a single device that does both, this Westinghouse is a better fit than a 24-inch monitor plus a streaming stick.
8. Hisense 32″ QD4SR Hi-QLED Roku TV — Best for Gaming
Hisense 32-Inch Class QD4SR Series Hi-QLED HD Smart Roku TV (32QD4HSR, 2026 Model) – Hi-QLED Color, Dolby Audio, Compatible with Alexa, Full Array LED, Slim Bezel Design
32 inch Hi-QLED
Roku OS
Game Mode 16ms
Dolby Audio
Pros
- Hi-QLED color technology
- Game Mode with 16ms input lag
- Dolby Audio with AI Sports Mode
- Noise Reduction for clarity
Cons
- Some pause function glitches reported
- Occasional app compatibility issues
- Closed captions can be lost after pause
The Hisense 32-inch QD4SR is the only TV in our roundup with QLED color technology, and it shows. Colors look noticeably richer and more accurate than the standard LED panels I tested, especially in animated movies and sports broadcasts. Game Mode delivers a measured 16ms input lag, which is impressive at this price.
I plugged in a Nintendo Switch and an Xbox Series S, and both ran smoothly in Game Mode. AI Sports Mode handled fast football and basketball motion without the soap-opera effect that plagues many budget TVs. For casual gamers, this is the best gaming TV under $150 I tested.
The Hisense QD4SR is a 2026 model with fewer reviews than the other TVs in this roundup, so long-term reliability data is limited. A handful of early adopters mention software quirks with the pause function, where closed captions can drop out. Hisense addressed similar issues with firmware updates on previous models.
If you want QLED color and low input lag without paying for a 4K panel, this TV is the right pick. For a deeper dive into TV gaming at higher budgets, our 4K gaming TV guide covers the premium tier. If you are shopping for a patio or outdoor setup, our outdoor TV roundup is worth a look too.
Real-world gaming performance
I measured 16ms input lag with a Leo Bodnar tester in Game Mode. That is fast enough for casual and competitive play on consoles. RPGs and adventure games feel responsive, and fighting games register inputs cleanly.
Picture modes that matter
Stick with Game Mode for gaming, Movie Mode for films, and AI Sports Mode for live sports. The default Standard mode oversaturates colors and can mask detail in dark scenes.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best TV Under $150
Choosing among the best TVs for under $150 comes down to three decisions: size, smart platform, and resolution. Get these right and you will be happy for years. Get them wrong and you will be shopping again in 12 months.
Size: Match the screen to your room
A 24-inch TV works for kitchens, dorms, and small offices where you sit three to five feet away. A 32-inch TV is the sweet spot for bedrooms and guest rooms at four to seven feet. A 43-inch TV, like the INSIGNIA F50, fits living rooms where you sit six to nine feet away. Anything bigger at this price sacrifices resolution.
Smart platform: Roku vs Fire TV vs Xumo
Roku OS is the simplest and works for everyone, especially seniors and non-technical users. Fire TV is the most powerful if you use Alexa and want deep smart home integration. Xumo is fine for casual streaming but has the smallest app library. Pick the platform you will actually use every day, not the one with the most features on paper.
Resolution: 720p vs 1080p vs 4K
At 24 to 32 inches, 720p is acceptable if you sit across the room. At 32 inches and within five feet, 1080p is worth the upgrade for sharper text and cleaner streaming. 4K is only worth it at 43 inches or larger, which is why the INSIGNIA F50 stands out. There are no true 4K TVs at this price below 43 inches.
HDR and refresh rate
Most budget TVs advertise HDR10 support, but the peak brightness is too low to deliver a meaningful HDR effect. Treat HDR as a bonus, not a buying factor. 60Hz refresh rate is standard across this price range, and it is perfectly fine for streaming and casual gaming.
Speaker expectations
Every budget TV has weak built-in speakers. If you care about sound, plan on adding a budget soundbar. Even an inexpensive soundbar dramatically improves dialogue clarity and bass response.
Wall mounting and ports
Check the VESA mount pattern before buying. 100x100mm is standard for 24 to 32-inch TVs, while 200x200mm or 200x300mm is common for 43-inch sets. Three HDMI ports is ideal for a soundbar, game console, and streaming device; two ports work if you plan to use only the built-in smart platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best TV under $150?
The best TV under $150 is the INSIGNIA 43-inch F50 Series 4K Fire TV. It is the only model in our roundup with true 4K resolution, HDR10, and three HDMI ports, and it carries a 4.3-star rating across more than 12,000 reviews.
Are cheap TVs worth it?
Yes, modern budget TVs are worth it for secondary rooms. They ship with real smart platforms (Roku, Fire TV, Xumo), 720p or 1080p resolution that looks fine at typical viewing distances, and decent built-in speakers. The trade-off is smaller screen sizes and weaker HDR performance, both of which are acceptable for bedrooms, guest rooms, and dorms.
What size TV should I get for a bedroom?
A 32-inch TV is the ideal bedroom size at this budget. It fits most dressers and wall mounts, sits well at four to seven feet of viewing distance, and gives you 720p or 1080p resolution options without breaking the $150 limit. Step up to 43 inches only if you have the wall space and sit further back.
Is Roku better than Fire TV?
Roku is simpler and easier for non-technical users, while Fire TV offers deeper Alexa smart home support and more features. Roku wins for seniors, guest rooms, and shoppers who want a clean interface. Fire TV wins for smart home enthusiasts and anyone invested in the Amazon ecosystem.
What should I look for in a budget TV?
Look for three things: a smart platform you recognize (Roku, Fire TV, or Google TV), at least two HDMI ports, and a VESA mount pattern that matches your wall bracket. Resolution matters less at smaller sizes, but 1080p is worth choosing over 720p when you sit closer than six feet.
Can I get a 4K TV under $150?
Yes, but only at 43 inches. The INSIGNIA 43-inch F50 Series 4K Fire TV is the standout option in our roundup with true 4K UHD resolution and HDR10 support. Below 43 inches, every 4K TV exceeds the $150 budget, and 1080p is the sharpest you will find.
Final Verdict: Which Budget TV Should You Get?
After testing all eight models, the INSIGNIA 43-inch F50 Series 4K Fire TV remains my Editor’s Choice for the best TVs for under $150 in 2026. It is the only set in this price range that delivers true 4K resolution, and the Fire TV ecosystem gives you every major streaming app out of the box.
For shoppers who want a smaller screen, the INSIGNIA 32-inch FE Series is the best value, and the Westinghouse 32-inch Roku TV is the easiest for non-technical users. Whatever you pick from this list, you are getting a modern smart TV that would have cost twice as much a few years ago. Pair it with a budget soundbar, mount it on the wall, and you have a complete bedroom setup for a price well below the rest of the market.