With the sheer number of TVs on the market today sporting different features and specs, it can feel overwhelming trying to pick the right one especially when working with a tight budget. This guide will help you find the perfect TV under $340 by outlining the key factors to consider and providing recommendations of the top models available.
How to Pick the Best TV Under $340
When evaluating TVs under $340, there are six main factors to take into account:
Budget
As you shop for budget TVs, setting a firm maximum price is essential. $340 and under encompasses quality options across screen sizes and feature sets. Determine how much you’re able to spend upfront so you can filter choices accordingly.
Screen Size
Consider the room size and layout along with average viewing distance to select the ideal screen size. A good guideline is to multiply the distance in feet by 0.84. For example, at a 6 foot distance, aim for roughly a 40 to 50 inch screen. Measure to confirm what will fit and feel comfortable.
Picture Quality
Resolution determines sharpness and clarity – 1080p is typical in this price tier. A 60Hz refresh rate delivers smooth motion. Look for HDR support for richer contrast and a wider color gamut. Avoid TVs lacking these baseline specs.
Audio Quality
Most affordable thin TVs lack robust sound. Expect only adequate built-in audio or plan on adding a soundbar. Models with DTS TruSurround and other processing help compensate for smaller speakers.
Connectivity
Evaluate input and port options to ensure your TV can interface with other devices. Look for at least 2 HDMI ports plus composite, coaxial, Ethernet, USB, and optical audio connections. All enable expanded functionality.
Brand Reputation
Stick with well-established, positively-reviewed brands when possible. The reliability and performance tend to surpass lesser-known companies’ offerings even if specs align identically on paper.
Now let’s explore this year’s top-rated sub $340 TVs across common size classes and use cases.
Best Overall: Samsung 32” Series 3 HD Smart TV
The Samsung 32” Series 3 LED TV combines a compact, space-saving form factor with a robust smart platform and brilliant high definition picture. It’s ideal if you want a secondary TV or need to outfit a smaller room affordably.
Key Specs:
- Screen Size: 32 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (1080p)
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Smart TV powered by Tizen OS
- 2 HDMI ports
The Pros
- Vibrant lifelike colors and sharp HD resolution
- AccuWeather built-in for local forecasts
- Universal guide aggregates streaming and live TV listings
- Slim 12.4mm depth blends into any space
The Cons
- Only 2 HDMI inputs limit device connections
- No HDR support
- Audio lacks robustness and depth
For only around $200 depending on promotions, the Samsung 32” Series 3 HD Smart TV delivers stunning high definition quality, smart streaming features, and an incredibly affordable price point difficult to match.
Best Value: Insignia 24” Fire TV
Insignia’s 24-inch Fire TV edition television proves you don’t have to compromise performance just because you’re working with a small space or strict budget. Thanks to Amazon’s Fire TV platform built right in, it punches far above typical expectations.
Key Specs:
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 720P
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Fire TV smart interface
- 3 HDMI inputs
The Pros
- Crisp 720P resolution despite compact size
- Hands-free Alexa controls
- Huge app and channel selection
- Easy to mount virtually anywhere
The Cons
- No HDR or local dimming
- Only 720P resolution
- Underpowered 5W speaker
If you want the ultimate streaming experience on a small scale, check out the Insignia 24” Fire TV. It brings smart functionality normally only seen on more expensive models. Voice controls via Alexa make it incredibly simple to use.
Best 43” Model: Hisense 4K Ultra HD Smart TV
This 43-inch Hisense model offers the clearest picture quality and crispest detail of any television under $340 thanks to 4K Ultra HD resolution paired with HDR support for breathtaking depth and realism.
Key Specs:
- Screen Size: 43 inches
- Resolution: 4K Ultra HD (2160P)
- High Dynamic Range (HDR)
- DTS Virtual X Surround Sound
- Built-in Google Assistant
The Pros
- Four times the clarity of 1080P HD models
- Produces over a billion vivid colors
- Game Mode for fast response competitive gaming
- Compatible with Alexa devices
The Cons
- Only 60hz refresh rate
- No local dimming feature
- Mediocre black uniformity
Experience your movies, shows, games, and more with breathtaking realism on the Hisense 43-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart TV. It’s the best television under $340 showcasing the latest display innovations.
Best 50”+ Option: TCL 55” Class 4-Series LED TV
For shoppers wanting the biggest screen possible without blowing their limited budget, TCL’s 2023 55-inch 4-Series model is the top choice. You’ll enjoy its sharp 4K Ultra HD resolution clarity and smart Roku TV platform.
Key Specs:
- Screen Size: 55 inches
- Resolution: 4K Ultra HD
- High Dynamic Range (HDR)
- Roku smart platform built-in
- 120Hz effective refresh rate
The Pros
- Smooth effective refresh rate eliminates blur
- Wide color gamut brings content to life
- Thousands of streaming apps via Roku TV
- Three HDMI ports accommodate devices
The Cons
- No local dimming function
- Mediocre black uniformity
- Only 60 native refresh rate
TCL’s 55-inch 4-Series model offers the largest screen you can get under $340 along with great smart connectivity and crisp 4K Ultra HD picture quality.
Best Portable: Tyler 32” LED HD Ready TV
Tyler’s TEL-32S2 32-inch HD-ready LED television delivers solid 720p high definition resolution in an ultra slim form factor that’s easy to move room to room or take on the go. It offers great performance without breaking the bank.
Key Specs:
- Screen Size: 32 inches
- Resolution: 1366 x 768 (720p)
- 2 HDMI & USB inputs
- Multiple preset visual modes
- Lightweight at just 7 lbs
The Pros
- Crisp HD resolution in compact form
- Wide 176° viewing angle visibility
- VESA mountable design
- Headphone out for private listening
The Cons
- No smart features
- Only 720P resolution
- No HDR support
The Tyler 32” HD Ready TV delivers solid performance and connectivity in a highly portable package that can easily be taken anywhere. It’s a flexible inexpensive option.
What To Know Before Buying a TV Under $340
While the TVs highlighted here provide strong value given their affordable pricing, manage expectations appropriately around their capabilities and longevity compared to more expensive counterparts.
It’s rare to find a TV with advanced features like full-array local dimming or 120Hz+ native refresh rates at under $340. Similarly, don’t expect the same level of durability and construction quality as flagship TVs from top-tier brands exceeding $1000+. These budget models typically use cheaper panel components and plastics.
Plan on a usable lifespan of 5 years or so with average usage. Treat the TV carefully and maintain it well to help maximize its operational window. Know that technologies continue advancing rapidly, so even with careful ownership don’t anticipate keeping one of these economical TVs for 10+ years without feeling outdated.
On the positive side, the core viewing experience and streaming functionality match modern standards out of the box thanks to baked-in smart platforms and essential specifications like 1080P or 4K resolution plus 60Hz effective refresh rates. You can enjoy your favorite shows, movies, sports, and more with confidence. Just temper expectations around longevity and bleeding-edge capabilities compared to the highest-end television offerings.
What It‘s Like Using a Sub $340 TV
In practice, utilizing one of the best TVs under $340 feels smooth, responsive, and enjoyable overall. You likely won’t notice significant performance differences compared to pricier models during most typical use cases like:
Streaming Content – Whether accessing Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube or other apps, these TVs deliver smooth video free of distracting lag or choppiness. Quick start-up and built-in wi-fi ensure accessing services happens fast.
Cable TV – Connecting to a cable box or antenna provides liveliness and clarity to news, sitcoms, reality shows and other programs. Football, basketball, and other sports also appear vibrant in motion.
Gaming – While serious competitive gamers need faster refresh rates, casual gameplay feels satisfying withconsistent frame rates and low input lag. Graphics and textures look detailed thanks to HD and 4K resolutions.
Web Browsing – The integrated smart platforms allow easily pulling up websites to access info or shop online. Pages render quickly and navigation feels snappy.
Streaming Video – Whether renting movies via Redbox or leveraging subscriptions like Disney+, films and television series showcase strong color, crisp definition, and no buffering during playback.
For most non-enthusiasts simply wanting an affordable, reliable TV that makes entertainment and web access enjoyable without issue, the top sets priced under $340 will satisfy entirely. Avoid expecting the world, apply some reasonable care and maintenance, and these budget-friendly models deliver immense value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What‘s the best screen size I can realistically get for under $340?
It’s possible to purchase TVs between 24 inches up to 55 inches plus under $340. Look for reputable brands like TCL, Samsung, LG, Vizio and Hisense given the expanded size range available. Remember to balance screen dimensions with room size and intended viewing distance.
Can I still get a smart TV even if I have a tight budget?
Absolutely – nearly all TVs now integrate essential smart platforms for popular streaming apps and services even in budget price tiers under $340. Brands recognize access to entertainment/web content is a must-have versus nice-to-have. With wi-fi connectivity, you’ll enjoy thousands of shows, movies and more.
What picture quality can I expect a TV under $340 to deliver?
Most TVs less than $340 offer at minimum 1080P Full HD resolution while many new models boast 4K Ultra HD clarity with HDR support. This showcases incredible color vibrancy, definition and depth. While you lose some advanced visual capabilities found in true flagship television sets, the image quality proves impressive.
How do cheaper TVs compare to high-end models?
Budget TVs focus on core performance meeting modern standards out of the box. So you receive essential specifications like 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rates ensuring smooth streaming and playback. High-end TVs add cutting-edge capabilities like quantum dot technology for superior realism. But for most viewers, cheaper models still deliver amazing enjoyability.
What TV brand is best for shoppers on a tight budget?
Quality matters more than badge when purchasing an economical TV. But TCL, Hisense and Vizio for example concentrate efforts on the budget segment so their models tend to overdeliver value there. Couple a great panel from them with Roku or Fire TV built-in for a complete package under $340.
Final Thoughts
Finding a seriously capable television even working with just a few hundred dollars no longer requires compromising on core viewing enjoyment. Today’s budget-friendly models like the Samsung 32” Series 3 HD Smart TV and Hisense 43” 4K Ultra HD TV highlighted here offer brilliant high definition clarity, smooth streaming functionality, and awesome overall user experiences perfect for most rooms.
Focus your search on reputable brands meeting modern technological standards at wallet-friendly pricing. And remember to set realistic expectations around cutting-edge features found only in the Absolute top-tier luxury television sets. By balancing your needs with reasonable assumptions of capabilities, selecting one of the best TVs under $340 that delights for years proves highly achievable even on a tight budget.
