Budget OLED 4K TVs
One of the newest and most impressive televisual technologies is the organic light-emitting diode screen. Unlike the more common LED models that populate the TV market, OLED displays light up each pixel individually. That means that when the content calls for it, each pixel can turn off in order to achieve the deepest blacks and best contrast possible.
While this technology frequently comes at a premium cost, there are some quality models for those on a budget. In order to find the best value, it’s important to understand what exactly OLED screens offer, how they compare to competitors and what you’ll find when shopping for a deal.
What to know about cheap OLED TVs
Cost
When it comes to OLED TVs, “cheap” is a relative term. This advanced technology comes at a high price and the line of 2021 OLED TVs is among the most expensive options available. That means that for those seeking value and budget-friendly prices, cheaper OLED TVs will be $1,000-$2,000.
Resolution
All OLED TVs feature 4K, or Ultra High Definition resolution. With 33 million pixels, 4K UHD resolution boasts four times as much detail and clarity as Full High Definition TVs. The major TV brands — Sony, LG and Samsung — are slowly phasing out FHD models, making way for both 4K and 8K TVs. A majority of new content, from films to shows to video games, are shot in 4K, making your OLED TV a better investment than any cheaper Full HD option.
Size
In this price range, you’ll find OLED TVs up to 65 inches. Due to the screen technology, increasing in size significantly raises the price. However, this means there is plenty of value in smaller models, particularly around 50 inches, which can serve bedrooms and smaller living rooms.
Brands
Currently, only LG and Sony sell OLED TVs. These are two of the top TV brands so your purchase will come with a fast processor, enhanced color filter and an intuitive smart platform. LG has started to license OLED technology to budget-friendly brands. While they don’t have any available at the moment, it’s expected that Hisense will begin to sell OLED TVs this year.
OLED vs. QLED
LG’s closest competitor to its OLED technology is Samsung’s QLED TVs. Quantum-dot LED displays operate like other LED TVs in which the screen is backlit and local dimming allows for sections to turn down the brightness to achieve contrast. However, since QLED screens can’t turn off individual pixels the way that OLED TVs can, they fail to offer the stark contrast and deep blacks that OLED screens do.
However, with a color filter placed in between the backlight and the screen, QLED screens generally offer increased brightness and a more stunning color palette. Just as LG has worked to enhance the brightness of its OLED screen, Samsung has sought to boost the contrast among deep blacks in QLED displays. Cheaper, older OLED screens may not have the highest level of brightness currently available on more expensive models.
OLED TVs under $2,000
LG OLED48CXP 48-Inch 4K: available at Amazon
This 2020 model is on the smaller size but provides a stunning picture for the cozier of entertainment spaces. The LG 4K TV is built for all content, particularly those who enjoy live sports or gaming as it boasts a fast processor and high refresh rate to eliminate any lag. It also features four HDMI and three USB ports for the utmost connectivity and versatility.
Sony A80J 55-Inch OLED TV: available at Amazon
At 55 inches, this TV will serve well in a mid-size living room. While the self-illuminating pixels can achieve deep blacks and contrast, Sony’s XR Triluminos Pro technology gives the screen a boost of color. The spectrum is vast and the colors on the screen are bright and vibrant.
LG CXPUA 65-Inch OLED TV: available at Amazon
This is likely the largest OLED TV you’ll get for under $2,000 at the moment. At 65 inches in size, this model will serve most living rooms save for the largest of viewing areas. It includes LG’s ThinQ AI to automatically adjust and upscale content in addition to the company’s fast and intuitive smart platform, webOS. The high refresh rate and four HDMI ports allow you to enjoy any content and connect plenty of devices.
Sony A8H 55-Inch OLED TV: available at Amazon
Fast processing and plenty of versatility make this pricier Sony model a worthwhile investment. While it features Google TV — a software extension of Android TV — it caters to Apple users with AirPlay 2 built-in and also works with Alexa. In addition to the easy-to-use interface, the TV boasts a gaming mode, high refresh rate and wide viewing angle.
LG C1PUB 48-Inch OLED 4K TV: available at Amazon
This OLED TV was released this year to offer the newest and fastest technology. Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, this 48-inch model includes filmmaker mode and gaming optimization to maximize your enjoyment of both visionary movies and the newest video games. Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos offer the best in video and sound quality as well.
Sony XBR-48A9S Master Series: available at Amazon
While this model comes at a smaller size, it features the best of Sony’s display technology and fast processing. The Master Series features TVs that offer the most faithful of cinematic reproductions. Colors are as bright as they need to be and when the content is dark, the contrast between black is stark and does not result in shadows or blurs.
LG 55-Inch BXPUA OLED TV: available at Amazon
The price of this 2020 TV provides for its size. With LG’s so-called magic remote that allows for customization and voice control, along with the speedy processor, this smart TV is one of the easiest to operate. The Motion Pro technology caters to action-packed films, live sports and online gaming. The ultra-thin design also makes it ideal for wall mounting.
LG GXPUA Gallery Design 55-Inch OLED TV: available at Amazon
Lastly, this model provides a slim design and almost nonexistent bezels for those seeking an immersive TV that’s just as stylish as it is functional. It fits nearly flush against the wall and offers a gorgeous display for all content. Popular LG features include sports alerts that pop up on screen, G-SYNC compatibility for gamers and filmmaker mode to enjoy the cinematic vision of your favorite movies.
Anthony Marcusa is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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