Buying a new TV can be an exciting yet daunting task given the myriad of options on the market. Advanced technologies like 4K resolution, HDR, and smart platforms now come standard, even on affordable models. With so many features to consider across different brands, budget ranges and screen sizes, it can get overwhelming to find the right fit.
If you‘re looking in the $2000 and under range, the good news is there are excellent televisions to meet virtually any need. You can get superb picture quality, robust gaming features and intuitive smart interfaces without breaking the bank. This guide will cover the key things to look for and provide specific recommendations to help you find your perfect TV.
Key Features to Look for in the Best TVs Under $2000
Resolution – All modern TVs offer 4K, which provides ultra sharp detail by quadrupling the resolution of 1080p Full HD. This allows you to see every pore and fabric texture when watching movies and shows.
High Dynamic Range – HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+ boost color depth and contrast for more realistic, nuanced images with highlighted details.
Refresh Rate – Measured in hertz (Hz), the refresh rate determines how smoothly fast motion scenes display. Aim for at least 120Hz.
Smart Platform – Whether you prefer Roku, Google TV, Fire TV or a proprietary os, the interface should be intuitive and offer all your desired streaming apps.
Gaming Features – If you game, prioritize HDMI 2.1 ports, low input lag, variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM).
Screen Size – Think about viewing distance and room size. Bigger isn‘t always better if you sit close. Aim for a minimum size equivalent to 1/3 your distance.
The 7 Best TVs Under $2000
1. Best Overall: LG C2
There‘s a reason the stellar LG C2 OLED is considered one of the best TVs you can buy today. It combines exceptional picture quality with a robust smart platform and next-gen gaming capabilities. Self-lit OLED pixels achieve inky blacks and vivid color, while the α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K provides stunning upscaling and optimization.
The intuitive webOS platform offers all the top streaming apps in an easy to navigate interface. For gaming, HDMI 2.1 inputs enable 4K/120Hz along with VRR and ALLM. Dolby Atmos audio and an integrated AI assistant round out the package.
Key Features:
- Self-lit OLED panel with over 8 million pixels
- Infinite contrast ratio and wide viewing angles
- AI 4K upscaling and auto picture/sound adjustment
- webOS smart platform with app store
- HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM for flawless gaming
- Works with Alexa & Google Assistant
Screen Sizes: 42", 48", 55”, 65”, 77‘’, 83”
Price Range: $1300 – $3000
2. Best Budget: TCL 6 Series
It‘s remarkable what features TCL packs into the 6 Series for a reasonable price. Mini-LED backlight technology with thousands of dimming zones provide exceptional brightness, contrast and HDR performance. The Roku smart platform offers a simple interface along with hundreds of streaming app options.
For gaming, HDMI 2.1 inputs allow 4K/120Hz on the latest consoles. With quantum dot technology augmenting the QLED display, colors are rich and vivid even from off angles. Those seeking premium picture quality without the premium cost will love the 6 Series.
Key Features:
- Mini-LED backlight with 240 local dimming zones
- Dolby Vision HDR and quantum dot wide color gamut
- Roku TV OS with 500,000+ movies/shows
- HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM to unlock full gaming potential
- AiPQ engine for intelligent picture optimization
Screen Sizes: 55", 65", 75"
Price Range: $700 – $2200
3. Best Image: Sony A95K QD-OLED
Representing a fusion of OLED and quantum dot technologies, the cutting-edge Sony A95K QD-OLED delivers breathtaking picture quality with intense OLED-level blacks and vibrant, saturated colors. The Cognitive Processor XR intelligently analyzes content to optimize every scene.
With a flush wall mount, the A95K can act as a stunning centerpiece in your living room. Google TV furnishes a robust platform with smart home control, while gamers benefit from input lag under 10ms. If you simply want the best possible image, look no further than the A95K.
Key Features:
- Quantum dot OLED panel with XR Triluminos Pro
- Cognitive Processor XR with intelligent optimization
- Google TV with Chromecast/HomeKit/Alexa built-in
- Acoustic Surface Audio+ for cinematic sound
- Input lag under 10ms for serious gaming
Screen Size: 65"
Price Range: $3000
4. Best Size Options: Samsung The Frame
More than just a television, Samsung’s lifestyle TV named The Frame doubles as wall art whenever you turn off the screen. Its Quantum Dot LED display renders colors with stunning accuracy while the slim, bezel-less design resembles an actual picture frame. Switching to Art Mode lets you select artwork or photos to proudly exhibit.
Smart features run on the Tizen-based platform. With sizes ranging from 43 to 85 inches in a customizable frame, it’s easy to find the right Fit for wherever you want to mount in your home.
Key Features:
- QLED Quantum Dot display with 100% color volume
- Art Mode showcases your photos or famous artworks
- Tizen OS with smart assistant and app integration
- Ambient Mode blends the TV into your wall
- Innovative attachable bezel options
Screen Sizes: 32", 43", 50", 55", 65", 75", 85"
Price Range: $500 – $3000
5. Best Sound: LG G2 Gallery Series
As LG‘s flagship Gallery model, the svelte, wall-mounted G2 OLED offers best-in-class audio to match its stellar visuals. The built-in Dolby Atmos system outputs dynamic, multi-dimensional sound that flows around you. Self-lit OLED pixels create perfectly deep blacks, made even better by the new Brightness Booster for higher peak luminance.
webOS software plus the integrated α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K optimize both picture and sound quality on the fly. With cutting-edge performance rivalling TVs double the cost, it doesn’t get much better than LG’s G2 for discerning home theater enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Self-lit OLED panel with Brightness Booster
- Next-gen α9 Gen5 AI Processor 4K
- Dolby Atmos audio fills the room
- Gaming features like VRR and ALLM
- webOS platform built on LG ThinQAI
Screen Size: 55", 65", 77", 83"
Price Range: $1700 – $4000
6. Best Smart TV: Amazon Fire TV Omni Series
Amazon‘s own smart TV line centers around hands-free Alexa voice functionality baked right in. The microphones let you search content, control playback, check weather, manage smart home devices and more completely hands-free. Beyond assistant features, the Fire TV interface grants intuitive access to tons of apps and streaming services.
With 4K Quantum Dot panels starting under $800 for 65 inches, it’s difficult to match the Omni Series combination of smarts, quality and value. Touch controls on the thin bezel also help navigate if you prefer manual operation.
Key Features:
- Quantum Dot LED backlight with full array local dimming (FALD)
- Built-in mics for quick Alexa voice commands
- Fast access to Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and more
- Comes with Echo Dot smart speaker
- Ambient Mode turns screen into entrancing visuals
Screen Sizes: 43", 50", 55", 65", 75"
Price Range: $360 – $1100
7. Best for Sports: Sony X90K
Boasting Sony‘s powerful cognitive XR processor for lifelike detail and motion, the LED-backlit X90K shines for sports and fast action content. The ultra-bright panel hits sustained peak brightness up to 1500 nits for excellent HDR pop.
Google TV offers a robust platform with Chromecast built in for easy casting from mobile devices. For gaming, dedicated HDMI 2.1 ports enable 4K/120fps, VRR and ALLM. While not as affordable as the TCL 6 Series, the X90J is a high-performing LED option with Sony‘s proprietary technologies.
Key Features:
- Full-array LED backlight with XR Contrast Booster 10
- Cognitive XR Processor for intelligent analysis
- Google TV software with hands-free Google Assistant
- HDMI 2.1 ports enable 4K/120Hz gaming
- Acoustic Multi-Audio for surround sound effect
Screen Sizes: 50", 55”, 65”, 75”, 85”
Price Range: $1000 – $3000
Choosing the Best TV Under $2000: Key Considerations
Viewing Distance
One often overlooked factor when selecting TV size is viewing distance. The ideal distance equals 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal length of the screen. This lets you fully appreciate 4K resolution without excessive eye movement. You also avoid pixelation sitting too close.
Use a tape measurer to check the couch-to-TV distance. Then refer to this general guide:
- 32-43 inch screens: 3-5 feet away
- 55-65 inch screens: 6-10 feet away
- 75-85 inch screens: 10-15 feet away
OLED TVs allow slightly closer viewing since image quality stays consistent at off angles.
Room Lighting
Where your new television gets installed plays a role in choosing the right technology. OLED screens look spectacular in dark home theater spaces where inky black levels truly shine. Their self-emissive pixels turn off completely to achieve infinite contrast.
For bright living rooms, QLED and LED TVs using quantum dots or full array local dimming can reach higher peak brightness. This helps colors and highlights punch through glare. Still take care to avoid direct sunlight which can degrade any display. Consider blackout curtains if needed.
Smart Platform
Every major brand uses their own smart TV software ecosystem. LG‘s webOS, Samsung‘s Tizen OS and Sony‘s Google TV all have pros and cons. Roku TVs provide a neutral alternative since the platform isn’t tied to streaming services owned by the manufacturer.
Think about your preferred streaming apps and how much you rely on built-in smart assistants. Quickly jumping into Netflix without juggling remotes provides major convenience. Just be aware of ads and pre-installed bloatware on cheaper models.
Sound System
TV speakers uniformly range between dreadful to passable, even on premium models. Movies and music beg for the spacious sound a surround system delivers. Investing in a decent soundbar or speakers greatly boosts enjoyment if built-in audio underwhelms. Many TVs feature eARC over HDMI to accommodate lossless Dolby Atmos soundbars.
Consider a model with Dolby Atmos like the LG G2 if using the internal speakers. Since Atmos enables 3D spatial audio, sound effects pan and move throughout the room. But true cinematic sound still requires an A/V receiver or soundbar.
FAQ About the Best 4K TVs Under $2000
What TV size should I buy?
For the ideal viewing experience, choose a size based on your room dimensions and seating distance. Keep the ratio between 1.5 and 2.5 times the screen diagonal. Any closer causes eyestrain.
Which is better for gaming: OLED or LED/QLED?
All of LG‘s OLED TVs offer extremely fast response time and low input lag with gaming features like VRR. But new Mini-LED TVs rival OLED contrast while getting brighter. Best is subjective based on your priorities like image quality versus peak brightness.
Should I worry about OLED screen burn in?
Current OLED TVs have greatly minimized burn in risk versus early models, making it a non-issue for typical households. Avoid static content displayed for 10+ hours daily and enable pixel shifting to be safe.
What cables will I need for 4K/120Hz gaming?
To enjoy cutting edge gaming performance, use Ultra High Speed HDMI cables and ports compatible with resolutions up to 4K/120Hz. Many TV boxes now include the proper cables to handle huge bandwidth.
Is 4K upscaling worth it on 1080p TVs?
Yes, a quality video processor like LG‘s α9 Gen5 AI or Sony‘s Cognitive XR Chip significantly cleans up lower resolution content by adding detail. This lets 720p/1080p video shine on 4K TVs instead of looking soft.
Find Your Perfect TV Under $2000
With so many phenomenal television options available below $2000, you‘ll gain stunning 4K picture quality along with smart connectivity and next-gen gaming capabilities. Each brand balances strengths like LG‘s self-lit OLED, Samsung‘s quantum dot richness or Sony‘s cognitive analysis to stand out.
Prioritize the features that appeal most like intense contrast, vibrant color or intelligent upscaling based on your preferences. All featured TVs promise years of stellar performance no matter what you stream or play. Just think about room layout, lighting and use case before deciding.
Once you match the right display size and technology to your needs among our curated list, finding TV nirvana awaits! Then you can fully enjoy movies, shows and games with your new centerpiece.
