Are you considering upgrading your TV to a 50-inch model? Whether you’re after a new TV for movie nights, gaming, or just regular binge-watching, this guide is for you. We’ve compiled everything you need to know to choose the best 50-inch TV, covering essential features like screen technology, resolution, and smart functionality.
So, let’s dive in and find your perfect TV.
What to Consider When Buying a 50-Inch TV
Choosing the right TV isn’t just about picking the biggest screen you can afford. There are plenty of other factors to consider. From panel types to smart features, here’s a breakdown of everything to look out for.
1. Screen Technology: OLED, QLED, or LED?
The type of screen technology plays a critical role in determining the picture quality. You have three main options:
OLED: The Premium Choice
OLED panels are often considered the top-tier option. Each pixel on an OLED screen can turn on and off individually, resulting in perfect blacks and an infinite contrast ratio. They’re ideal for dark room viewing and movies with lots of shadow details.
QLED: Bright and Colorful
QLED (Quantum Dot LED) screens are known for their vibrant colors and bright output, making them ideal for bright rooms. They offer excellent contrast ratios, but can’t achieve the perfect blacks of OLED screens.
LED: Budget-Friendly and Dependable
LED screens are the most common and affordable option. They offer decent picture quality but don’t have the same color accuracy or contrast ratios as OLED or QLED.
2. Resolution: Is 4K Necessary?
For a 50-inch screen, 4K resolution is highly recommended. A 4K TV has four times the pixel density of a 1080p TV, offering much sharper and more detailed images. With streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ now offering 4K content, it’s a worthwhile upgrade.
3. Refresh Rate: What Does It Mean for You?
The refresh rate measures how many times per second the TV refreshes the image on the screen, measured in Hertz (Hz). Standard TVs usually have 60Hz, which is fine for most content. However, if you’re into gaming or action-packed movies, a higher refresh rate, like 120Hz, can provide smoother motion.
4. HDR (High Dynamic Range) Support
HDR dramatically enhances the picture by improving the contrast between the brightest whites and the darkest blacks. Look for TVs that support HDR10 or Dolby Vision, two of the most popular HDR formats.
Top 50-Inch TV Recommendations in 2024
Here’s a list of the best 50-inch TVs available today, each packed with unique features tailored to different needs and budgets.
5. Hisense 50E77KQ
The Hisense 50E77KQ is an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality 50-inch TV without breaking the bank. It features QLED technology, 4K resolution, and smart functionalities via VIDAA U6.
Key Features:
- 4K QLED Display
- Dolby Atmos sound for immersive audio
- Alexa voice control
- Game Mode Pro Plus for gaming optimization
6. Samsung UE50CU7090UXZT
This model from Samsung comes with their Crystal UHD technology, offering bright, vivid colors and crisp images. It’s a great all-rounder, suitable for both movie buffs and casual gamers.
Key Features:
- Crystal Processor 4K
- HDR support
- 3D audio with OTS Lite
- Smart Hub for easy navigation
7. Samsung UE50CU7190UXZT
A great budget option from Samsung that doesn’t compromise on picture quality. Its PurColor technology makes the colors pop, and the 4K Crystal Processor ensures smooth playback.
Key Features:
- PurColor Technology
- 4K upscaling for lower resolution content
- Game Mode Plus for a smooth gaming experience
- Adaptive Sound for personalized audio
8. Hisense 50E63KT
If you’re after a TV with more advanced smart features, the Hisense 50E63KT is a solid choice. Its VIDAA U6 operating system offers an intuitive interface, and the 30W DTS Virtual
audio ensures a cinema-like sound experience.
Key Features:
- UHD 4K resolution
- Slim design with ultra-thin bezels
- Game Mode Plus for reduced input lag
- Smart connectivity with Alexa voice control
9. Samsung TV QE50Q60CAUXZT
Samsung’s QLED models are known for delivering stunning visuals, and the QE50Q60CAUXZT is no exception. Quantum Dot technology guarantees vibrant colors, and its Quantum HDR feature brings out incredible details in both dark and bright scenes.
Key Features:
- Quantum Dot technology
- Q-Symphony for enhanced audio
- Adaptive Picture for optimizing image settings based on room lighting
- Built-in voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant
10. Samsung UE50CU8570UXZT
The Samsung UE50CU8570UXZT is a premium model that excels in both picture and sound quality. With an AirSlim design, it’s a stylish addition to any living room.
Key Features:
- Dynamic Crystal Color
- Motion Xcelerator for smoother action sequences
- Game Mode for low latency gaming
- SmartThings integration for controlling other smart devices
11. Hisense 50″ UHD 4K 50A6K
This Hisense model is great for gamers, with Game Mode Plus offering low latency and smooth visuals. It also features 4K UHD resolution, making it perfect for binge-watching your favorite series.
Key Features:
- Game Mode Plus with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
- DTS Virtual
audio technology
- Smart VIDAA U6 OS for intuitive control
- Built-in Alexa for voice commands
Important TV Features You Should Know
Understanding the technical specifications of a TV can be daunting. Let’s break down a few more essential features that can help you make an informed decision.
12. HDMI 2.1: Future-Proofing Your TV
If you’re serious about gaming or want to future-proof your setup, ensure that the TV supports HDMI 2.1. This allows for higher resolution gaming and supports up to 120 frames per second, perfect for next-gen gaming consoles.
13. Smart Features and Operating Systems
Most modern TVs are smart TVs, but the interface and app ecosystem can vary significantly. Some of the top TV operating systems include:
- Android TV: A popular OS found in Sony and Philips models. It supports Google Play Store apps and Google Assistant.
- Tizen OS: Samsung’s proprietary OS, known for its fast response time and intuitive interface.
- VIDAA: Found in Hisense models, this system is easy to navigate and includes support for popular streaming services like Netflix and Disney+.
14. Sound Quality: Built-in vs. Soundbar
While TVs have made huge leaps in picture quality, sound can still be a weak point. Consider whether your TV includes Dolby Atmos or DTS
sound support. If not, you might want to invest in a soundbar for a richer audio experience.
15. Voice Assistant Compatibility
Many TVs now come with built-in support for voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Bixby. This makes controlling your TV a breeze, allowing you to change channels, adjust volume, and search for content hands-free.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect 50-Inch TV
Choosing a 50-inch TV is no small decision, and with so many great options on the market, it can be hard to narrow down your choice. The right TV for you depends on your needs—whether it’s high-end picture quality, gaming features, or seamless smart functionality.
Take the time to assess what matters most to you, and you’ll end up with a TV that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
FAQs
1. Is 4K resolution worth it for a 50-inch TV?
Yes, a 4K resolution is ideal for 50-inch TVs, providing sharper and more detailed images compared to lower resolutions like 1080p.
2. What’s the best TV type for gaming?
For gaming, look for TVs with low input lag, Game Mode, and a higher refresh rate (preferably 120Hz). Models like the Hisense 50E63KT and Samsung UE50CU8570UXZT offer great gaming features.
3. Are OLED TVs better than QLED?
OLED TVs offer better contrast and black levels, while QLED TVs excel in brightness and color vibrancy. Your choice depends on your viewing preferences and room lighting.
4. Do I need a soundbar for my 50-inch TV?
While many 50-inch TVs offer decent built-in sound, a soundbar can significantly improve your audio experience, especially for movies and gaming.
5. How far should I sit from a 50-inch TV?
The ideal viewing distance is about 6-8 feet from a 50-inch 4K TV to fully appreciate the resolution and picture quality.
6. What’s the difference between HDR10 and Dolby Vision?
HDR10 is a standard format, while Dolby Vision offers more advanced features like dynamic metadata for better color accuracy and brightness in each scene.
7. Can I mount a 50-inch TV on the wall?
Yes, most 50-inch TVs come with VESA mounting options, making them compatible with wall mounts. Just ensure your wall can support the weight.
8. Do 50-inch TVs come with voice control?
Yes, many modern 50-inch TVs come with built-in voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Bixby, allowing for easy voice control.
