The Ultimate Guide to Top 50-Inch Televisions of 2024

We’ve gathered together the best 50-inch televisions of 2024 with cutting-edge features and prices that won’t break the bank.

When investing in a new television, the top three factors to consider are picture quality, screen size, and contrast variety. People use televisions to watch a variety of content: movies, sports, gaming, and much more. Depending on your space, you might choose a 50-inch, a 55-inch, a 65-inch, or a 75-inch television to view your favorite shows and movies. If you’re looking for a 50-inch television to fit your apartment or bedroom, these TVs offer beautiful picture quality at a lower price point.

Samsung CU8000

Samsung CU8000 tech specs:

• Panel type: LED
• HDR: HDR10+
• Sound: Object Tracking Sound Light
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3x HDMI, 2x USB, RF, Optical

If you’re in the market for a new TV, Samsung has many high-end offerings, but the mid-range CU8000 is one of the most powerful 50-inch class models you can buy. Not only does it provide excellent native and upscaled 4K resolution, but it also supports HDR10+ technology for enhanced detailing and Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound Light for sound that follows the on-screen action.

Hisense A6

Hisense A6 tech specs:

• Panel type: LED
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10
• Sound: DTS Virtual: X
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Voice controls: Hey Google
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Chromecast, 3x HDMI, 2x USB, Optical, RF, Composite

The Hisense A6 is a great option for a 50-inch TV if you’re looking to upgrade on a budget. It retails for under $300 but still provides many features you’d expect from smart TVs. You’ll get integrated voice controls through Google Assistant for hands-free usage of your new TV, connected devices, and apps.

LG UR9000

LG UR9000 tech specs:

• Screen size: 50 inches
• Panel type: LED
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Resolution: 4K
• HDR: HDR10
• Sound: Dolby Digital
• Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google, Siri

The LG UR9000 is a great mid-range TV if you’re looking to save money, as well as for a screen that’s a bit on the smaller side. It features support for Alexa, Hey Google, and Siri through the Apple HomeKit for hands-free voice controls. You’ll also get LG Channels preloaded onto your TV so you can start watching live news, sports, and entertainment right away.

Sony A90K

Sony A90K tech specs:

• Panel type: OLED
• HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10
• Sound: DTS Digital Surround, Acoustic Surface Audio+
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4x HDMI, 2x USB, Ethernet, RF, Optical, Composite

The Sony A90K has a 48-inch screen, but it’s included here because it’s the closest you’ll get to a 50-inch OLED. The TV still delivers signature OLED picture quality in its smaller form factor, so you won’t have to sacrifice detailing or contrast accuracy to get a screen that fits a smaller space.

Samsung QN90C

Samsung QN90C tech specs:

• Panel type: Neo QLED
• HDR: Neo Quantum HDR+
• Sound: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+
• Refresh rate: 120Hz
• Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4x HDMI, 2x USB, RF, Optical

If you’re willing to spend a bit more to get the best possible 50-inch TV, the Samsung QN90C is an excellent choice. It features an updated Neo QLED panel for better colors and detailing, as well as support for both Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound for immersive sound that follows the on-screen action. It also offers voice controls via Alexa, Samsung’s Bixby, or Google Assistant for hands-free usage.

What is the Best 50-Inch Television?

My pick for the best 50-inch television is the Samsung CU8000. Not only is the price relatively wallet-friendly, but it also provides plenty of premium-grade features that make it a great value for the cost. You’ll get HDR10+ support for enhanced detailing and contrast, as well as object tracking sound for immersive audio.

Which is the Right 50-Inch Television for You?

Once you’ve settled on a budget, consider where you’ll place your 50-inch TV and how you’ll use it. If you intend to upgrade the main TV in your living room or home theater, you’ll want to opt for a model that offers plenty of connectivity for playback devices as well as excellent picture and sound quality for family movie nights or watch parties with friends.

If you’re looking for a secondary screen for your bedroom or gaming space, you’ll want something a bit more budget-friendly since it may not be used as often.

How Did We Choose These 50-Inch Televisions?

While researching and testing each 50-inch TV featured in this list, I and other ZDNET journalists kept these criteria in mind:

• Price
• Picture and sound quality
• Connectivity

What is a Good Price for a 50-Inch Television?

Spending hard-earned cash on a TV can mean shelling out hundreds or even thousands. There’s good and bad news on these 50-inch picks.

The good news is that nowadays there are so many options to choose from. The bad news is that we can’t tell you the best amount to spend on a TV since everyone’s needs and budgets vary. Generally, our picks on this list range from $290 to $1,200.

How High Should a TV Stand Be for a 50-Inch Television?

Ideally, your TV stand should elevate your TV at least two feet above the floor. Additionally, you’ll likely want a stand that is 3-5 inches wider than your TV. Most TVs have feet instead of a central stand now, so unless you plan to mount your TV on the wall, a wide stand is necessary.

What is the Best 50-Inch Television for Gaming?

My choice for the best 50-inch gaming TV is the Samsung QN90C for its object tracking sound, cloud gaming support, and VRR integration to prevent screen tearing and stuttering.

Are There Alternative 50-Inch Televisions Worth Considering?

When it comes to TVs, it’s hard to compete with big companies like Samsung, LG, and TCL. The battle for the best TV on the market is truly competitive, but after the top few products, the competition seems to drop off.