A few years back, finding a high-quality 4K Ultra HD TV with premium features for under $1,000 was out of reach for many buyers on a budget. But thanks to intense competition and rapid innovations, superb home theater viewing is surprisingly affordable today.
I‘ve thoroughly researched hundreds of televisions on the market and can confidently recommend these 5 options as the very best TVs available under $1,000 in 2023. Let‘s dive in!
🥇 Overall Best: TCL 6-Series with Roku
Size: 55" ($799), 65" ($999)
Arguably delivering the top balance of performance, cutting-edge features and sheer value in its price class, TCL‘s 2022 6-Series Roku TV sticks out above the competition.
Image Quality
Its QLED panel and mini-LED backlighting produce sensational brightness, inky blacks and vivid real-world colors. Excellent 4K upscaling ensures even HD content appears detailed and clear.
Gaming Features
With THX Certified Game Mode optimized for fast response times under 15ms, variable refresh rate (VRR) up to 144Hz refresh rates, and Auto Game Mode, this is arguably the best gaming TV you‘ll find for under $1,000.
Smart Features
Roku TV provides a foolproof smart TV interface with thousands of streaming apps and constant OS updates. Voice control is built-in with Alexa + Google Assistant compatibility.
Audio & Design
While it won‘t replace a soundbar, the 6-Series audio outperforms most competitors thanks to Dolby Atmos decoding and decent volume/bass. An understated, thin-bezel design looks fantastic in any space.
For shoppers wanting the complete package without breaking budget, the 2022 TCL 6-Series Roku TV stands tall as my pick for best all-rounder.
💰 Best Budget Option: Hisense U6H Quantum
Size: 50" ($499), 55" ($549), 65" ($749)
Priced even lower than last year‘s models but now upgraded with quantum dot color, Hisense‘s value-packed U6H series delivers astonishing performance rivaling premium flagships that are nearly twice the cost.
Image Quality
Quantum dot filtration enables over a billion accurate colors, paired with impactful brightness and inky blacks thanks to full array local dimming zones (60-120 zones depending on size). Dolby Vision and HDR10+/HLG high dynamic range ensure mesmerizing contrast when viewing supported content.
Gaming Features
Low input lag and fast response make the U6H feel extremely snappy for gaming, while HDMI 2.1 ports enable 4K @ 120Hz and variable refresh rates up to 60Hz for ultra smooth visuals. Auto low latency mode (ALLM) automatically optimizes settings for gaming.
Smart Features
Google TV provides a straightforward interface akin to Android, with handy built-in Chromecast abilities and support for the Google Assistant. Plus, you‘ll have instant access to all your favorite streaming video and music apps.
Audio & Design
An elegant bezel-less design with adjustable stand allows flexible placement, although audio quality from downward-firing speakers remains merely passable. For better sound, I recommend pairing with a soundbar.
If killer performance and next-gen features matter more than branding, the Hisense U6H Quantum series delivers ridiculous value – it‘s my top budget pick by far.
📺 Best OLED: LG B2 Series
Size: 55" ($1,096), 65" ($1,596), 77"($2,196)
Representing LG‘s entry-level OLED for 2022, the B2 series builds upon last year‘s renowned A1 model by adding a faster processor and brighter panel at very appealing price points.
Image Quality
As expected from an OLED screen, inky blacks and pixel-perfect local dimming contrast create an infinite level of depth and realism. Self-lit pixels enable jaw-dropping color accuracy. The upgraded a7 Gen5 AI Processor provides better upscaling and clarity in fast action scenes.
Gaming Features
All four HDMI ports are HDMI 2.1 enabled, supporting 4K resolution at 120Hz, variable refresh rate (VRR) and automatic low latency mode (ALLM). These ensure flawlessly smooth performance with instant on-screen feedback.
Smart Features
webOS provides one of the most intuitive and responsive smart TV interfaces, offering quick access to apps like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV and LG Channels. Built-in support for Alexa, Google Assistant and Airplay 2.
Audio & Design
An upgraded audio processor provides slightly better sound projection compared to last year‘s A1. But for serious cinematic audio, I still recommend pairing with a soundbar. An elegant gallery design features slim bezels and integrated cable management.
If your heart is set on owning the perfect black levels of an OLED screen, the LG B2 gives you supreme image quality that outclasses traditional LCD/LED rivals.
🎮 Best for Gaming: Sony X90K
Size: 50" ($999), 55” ($1,099), 65" ($1,299), 75" ($1,799)
Sony‘s LED-backlit X90K series stands atop as the best gaming TV under $1000 you can buy today thanks to its cognitive processor delivering sensational visual fidelity, fast response times and HDMI 2.1 future-proofing.
Image Quality
Powered by the Cognitive Processor XR, the X90K leverages how human vision perceives depth, color and sound to create a supremely lifelike 4K picture, whether upscaling content or displaying native 4K. Bright and colorful HDR visuals truly pop thanks to XR Contrast Booster technology.
Gaming Features
With dedicated Game Mode, HDMI 2.1 ports enabling 4K 120fps, variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode, you‘ll be blown away by how smooth and responsive gameplay feels on the X90K. Input lag is virtually nonexistent.
Smart Features
Google TV provides robust voice control, Chromecast built-in, and access to all your favorite streaming apps and services.
Audio & Design
Acoustic Multi-Audio speakers positioned throughout the TV and XR Surround technologies provide greatly enhanced bass, dialog and immersion that outperforms most competitors. A minimalist design with flush bezels blends nicely into entertainment spaces.
For hardcore console or PC gamers wanting the smoothest visuals and snappiest response times without breaking budget, the Sony X90K is specially optimized to impress.
📐 Best 75 Inch: Hisense U7H Quantum
Size: 75" ($999)
Boasting quantum dot color and full array local dimming paired with a ginormous screen real estate, Hisense‘s U7H Quantum edition delivers supreme value for those wanting to maximize size without compromising performance.
Image Quality
Over a billion precise shades of color enabled by the quantum dot layer make pictures astonishingly vibrant. 600+ local dimming zones produce markedly better black levels, contrast and brightness compared to last year‘s entry-level models. Fantastic color, clarity and motion handling.
Gaming Features
Auto low latency mode (ALLM) for gaming plus 60Hz native refresh rate ensure smooth visuals and responsiveness for casual gaming. Great for single player story adventures. While no HDMI 2.1 here, the price is unrivaled for the giant size.
Smart Features
Just like the U6H, Google TV offers excellent usability along with built-in Chromecast abilities and hands-free Google Assistant control.Streams everything easily.
Audio & Design
A sleek minimalist design with sturdy centralized stand is pleasing aesthetically. Integrated speakers feature decent volume but if planning movie nights, I recommend adding a soundbar.
It‘s astonishing Hisense manages to stuff quantum color, full array local dimming and a 75-inch screen under $1000. If size outweighs bleeding edge gaming specs, the U7H is unmatched.
Display Technology
When shopping sub-$1000, expect LED backlighting rather than OLED which sees significant price jumps around the $1200+ mark for 65-inch models. That said, mini-LED backlight technology found in options like the TCL 6-Series provide precision local dimming capabilities nearing OLED thanks to over 1000+ zones. Also keep an eye out for quantum dot color which enables over a billion rich colors.
Refresh Rate
While 60Hz refresh rate screens are common in this price range, top-tier choices like the TCL 6-Series and Sony X90K now integrate native 120Hz panels, allowing smoother motion clarity along with enhanced gaming features.
HDMI 2.1
If future-proofing for gaming is important, HDMI 2.1 inputs should be standard as they allow 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second along with variable refresh rate (VRR). Auto low latency mode is also good to have for lag-free gaming.
HDR Support
Quality HDR performance showcasing enhanced contrast/brightness and a wider color gamut helps bring movies, shows and games to life. Look for Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and HLG compatibility.
Smart Features
All modern TV operating systems like webOS, Tizen and Roku TV offer robust app libraries, voice control and wireless screencasting built-in to support streaming and smart home usability.
- When wall-mounting, pay attention to VESA measurements to ensure compatibility with your mount or bracket.
- Know your optimal viewing distance so you can choose the perfect screen size for your space.
- For better audio, I recommend pairing with a quality soundbar – especially for bigger screen sizes.
- If concerned about permanent burn-in risks inherent to OLED panels, opt for mini-LED screens that offer exceptional contrast without burn-in.
Hopefully these curated top picks help showcase exactly why 2023 represents such an exciting time for bargain TV hunters. No matter your priorities – be it optimal streaming, gaming or sports viewing – there‘s a perfect display waiting with the exactly right feature mix without busting budget.
Personally, I believe TCL‘s 6-Series Roku TV currently provides the most complete high-performance smart TV package available under $1000. But every model highlighted here delivers impressive quality that dramatically outshines televisions from just a few years ago.
Whichever option you land on, happy viewing! Your entertainment experience is sure to level up.