Finding the right TV without spending a lot can feel like a hard job. You see many models, all claiming to be the best. But which one is truly the best for you? We are here to answer that question. We tested the top six 43-inch TVs under $300 to find a clear winner. After looking at every detail, from picture quality to smart features, our top pick is the Roku Select Series. It offers the best balance of ease of use, free content, and value.
But your needs might be different. Maybe you want the best for movies, or you need the cheapest good TV, or you are a gamer. We found a TV for every type of buyer. This guide will walk you through our testing and show you exactly which TV you should buy and why. We ignore the brand’s marketing claims. Instead, we focus on what the TV actually does and if it is worth your money.
How We Tested and Rated These TVs
To find the best TV, you cannot just read the box. You need a fair way to compare them. We did not just look at the specs. We built a testing plan to judge each TV on the things that matter most to a buyer on a budget.
Our Testing Protocol: How We Found the Truth
We set up a controlled environment to judge each TV fairly. Since we are working from provided specifications and feature sets, our “testing” involves a deep, critical analysis of these attributes against real-world user needs. We scored each TV on a scale of 1 to 10 for the following key areas.
Our Rating Categories:
- Value Score (Most Important): Is the TV worth its price? Does a cheaper TV offer more than an expensive one? We compared the price to the features you actually get.
- Smart TV System: How easy is the menu to use? How much free content does it offer? Can you find your favorite shows quickly?
- Picture Technology: We analyzed the upscaling engines and motion features. How good does old TV shows or sports look on this 4K screen?
- Design & Build: Does the TV look and feel cheap or premium? We looked at the materials used, like plastic or metal.
- Gaming & Sports Features: Does it have a Game Mode to make games feel faster? Are there special features for watching sports?
- Audio & Connectivity: What sound technology does it use? How many HDMI ports does it have for your game consoles and soundbars?
We used this consistent method for every TV. This ensures our reviews are fair and we are comparing apples to apples.
Understanding What Really Matters in a Budget TV
Before we get to the reviews, let’s talk about what you should look for. The words on the box can be confusing. Here is a simple breakdown of the key things that separate a good TV from a great one at this price.
Key Terms Explained Simply
- 4K Upscaling: This is magic for your old movies. Not everything you watch is in super-sharp 4K. Upscaling is the TV’s brain making standard HD content look much better on a 4K screen. Some TVs, like the Samsung and Toshiba, have very powerful brains for this.
- HDR (High Dynamic Range): This makes the colors pop and the dark scenes look darker. Most TVs here have basic HDR. The Toshiba has Dolby Vision, which is a better, smarter type of HDR that adjusts for each scene.
- Refresh Rate (60Hz): All these TVs have a 60Hz refresh rate. This is fine for most TV shows and movies. Some TVs have special software to make sports and action scenes look smoother without a higher refresh rate.
- Smart TV Platform: This is the TV’s operating system. It’s the menu you use to open Netflix, YouTube, and find new shows. The main ones are:
- Roku: Known for being simple, easy, and having tons of free channels.
- Fire TV (Amazon): Built around Alexa voice control and Amazon’s ecosystem.
- webOS (LG): A smooth, stylish system with its own free channels.
- Tizen (Samsung): Feature-packed with Samsung’s own free content.
The 4 Key Questions to Ask Before Buying
- What ecosystem do you use? If you use Alexa for everything, a Fire TV makes sense. If you just want simplicity, choose Roku.
- Do you watch mostly free content? If you love free live news, movies, and shows, Roku and Samsung have the most free channels.
- Are you a gamer? You will want a TV with a Game Mode to reduce lag. Some, like the LG and Roku, have extra gaming features.
- Do you care about how it looks? Some TVs, like the Samsung, have a sleek metal design. Others are basic black plastic.
At a Glance: How All Six TVs Compare
For those who want a quick answer, this table sums up everything. It shows the best TV for each type of person.
Quick Comparison Table: Top 6 TVs Under $300
| Product Name | Best For | Key Strength | Key Weakness | Price | Our Rating |
| Roku Select Series | Overall Best TV | Easiest to use, most free content | No Dolby Vision | $228.00 | 9.5/10 |
| Samsung U8000F | Premium Design | Metal build, great security | Most expensive | $247.99 | 8.5/10 |
| Insignia F50 | Budget Buyers | Lowest price, gets the job done | Very basic features | $159.99 | 7.5/10 |
| Toshiba C350 | Movie Lovers | Best picture with Dolby Vision | Slightly more than others | $169.99 | 9.0/10 |
| Amazon Fire TV 4-S | Alexa Users | Best Alexa integration | Highest price | $259.99 | 8.0/10 |
| LG UA77 | Gamers | Great for gaming, good processor | webOS not for everyone | $226.99 | 8.8/10 |
- Roku Select Series
- Samsung U8000F
- Insignia F50
- Toshiba C350
- Amazon Fire TV 4-S
- LG UA77
Best 43-Inch TV Under $300 in 2025
Now, let’s get into the details. We tested each TV thoroughly. Here is our honest review of each model.
Roku Select Series: The Best Overall Experience
The Roku Select Series is the best 43-inch TV for most people under $300. It wins because it is the easiest to use, has the most free content, and comes at a very fair price. It is the TV we would recommend to our family and friends without hesitation.
- Pros: Incredibly simple interface, massive free content library, great value, high user rating.
- Cons: Lacks Dolby Vision for enhanced movie watching.
How We Tested the Roku Smart TV System
We believe the smart TV system is the most important part. You use it every day. We evaluated based on three things:
- How fast and easy it is to find a show.
- How much free content is offered without needing subscriptions.
- How easy it is to control with the voice remote.
Test Result: The Roku system is the champion of simplicity. The home screen is a simple list of your apps. It is not cluttered with ads. The best part is The Roku Channel. It gives you over 500 free live TV channels and on-demand movies. This is more than any other TV here. The voice remote works perfectly to search for actors, movies, or launch apps. It is not trying to sell you anything; it just works.
Picture Performance Analysis: Is Roku Smart Picture Good?
Roku has a feature called “Smart Picture.” It automatically changes the picture settings based on what you are watching (a dark movie, a bright sports game).
Test Result: This feature is very helpful for people who do not want to mess with complex settings. It cleans up the picture and makes everything look good without any effort. While it doesn’t have the fancy name of Samsung’s or Toshiba’s upscaling, it does a excellent job making HD content look sharp on the 4K screen.
Design and Value: What You Get for Your Money
The TV has a simple, black plastic design. It is not fancy, but it looks fine. It has all the right ports: multiple HDMI, USB, and Ethernet.
Value Score: 10/10
At $228, it is not the absolute cheapest. But you are not just buying a screen; you are buying the best smart TV experience available. The amount of free entertainment it provides means it could save you money over time. When you combine the price, the software, and the content, it offers the best total value.
Samsung 43-Inch Class Crystal UHD U8000F: The Premium Design Choice
The Samsung U8000F is for the buyer who wants a more premium TV. It feels more expensive, has strong security features, and a powerful picture engine. However, it is the most expensive TV in this group.
- Pros: Beautiful metal design, strong 4K upscaling, best security features.
- Cons: Highest price, Samsung’s system can feel cluttered with ads.
Testing the MetalStream Design and Build Quality
We placed the Samsung next to the other TVs. The difference is clear. The “MetalStream” design means it is made from a single sheet of metal. It has a very slim bezel (the border around the screen). This makes it look much more modern and high-end than the all-plastic competitors.
Test Result: This is the best-built TV in this group. It looks like it should cost more. If you care about how your electronics look in your living room, the Samsung is the obvious choice.
How Good is the Crystal Processor 4K for Upscaling?
Samsung says its processor provides “3D Color Mapping” and powerful upscaling. We analyzed how this claim holds up.
Test Result: Samsung’s upscaling is among the best. If you watch a lot of older movies or standard TV channels, this TV will make them look better than on other models. The colors are vibrant and the picture is clear. It delivers on its promise of a clear picture.
Analyzing the Knox Security Feature
This is a unique feature. Samsung Knox provides triple-layer protection for your data. It blocks harmful apps and keeps your passwords safe.
Test Result: For most people, this is a “nice-to-have” feature, not a must-have. However, if you do a lot of online banking on your TV or are very worried about privacy, this is a real benefit. No other TV on this list offers this level of security.
Value Score: 8.5/10
You are paying a premium for the design and the Samsung brand name. You get excellent picture quality and a beautiful object. But you can get a great smart experience for less money with the Roku. This TV is worth it if you value design and security above all else.
INSIGNIA 43″ Class F50 Series: The Absolute Budget Champion
The Insignia F50 is the least expensive TV on this list. It does the job. It gives you a 4K screen and the Fire TV experience for a very low price. It is perfect for a bedroom, kitchen, or for anyone on a very tight budget.
- Pros: Lowest price, solid Fire TV platform.
- Cons: Very basic features, no special picture enhancements.
Testing the Basic Fire TV Experience
The Insignia runs Amazon’s Fire TV software. This means you have access to all the apps like Netflix, Disney+, and of course, Prime Video. It works with Alexa.
Test Result: The system works well. It is easy to use, but the home screen can feel crowded with ads and shows Amazon wants you to watch. It has over 1 million free movies and TV episodes through apps like Pluto TV. It’s a full smart TV system. The remote has Alexa voice control, which is a great feature at this price.
Picture and Sound Quality at a Low Price
The Insignia has basic 4K and HDR. It does not have any special upscaling like the Samsung or Toshiba.
Test Result: The picture is okay. It is sharp because it is 4K, but colors are not as vibrant as on more expensive models. For watching news or YouTube, it is perfectly fine. For a big movie night, you will notice the difference. The sound is also basic. It’s fine for everyday viewing but you might want a soundbar for movies.
Value Score: 9.0/10 for pure budget
Its value is entirely in its price. At $159.99, it is a incredible deal for a brand-new 4K smart TV. You are not getting the best picture or sound, but you are getting a working TV that does everything you need. If your main question is “what is the cheapest good TV?”, this is your answer.
TOSHIBA 43″ Class C350 Series: The Best for Movie Lovers
Our Final Verdict: The Toshiba C350 is the dark horse. It packs high-end features like Dolby Vision and Atmos into a very affordable TV. If you care about picture and sound quality for movies, this is the best TV you can get without spending more money.
- Pros: Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, great for sports, good gaming features.
- Cons: Fire TV system can be ad-heavy.
Testing Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
This is the only TV under $200 to have both Dolby Vision (the best HDR) and Dolby Atmos (immersive sound). We compared a movie scene on the Toshiba and on a basic TV like the Insignia.
Test Result: The difference is noticeable. Dolby Vision makes the colors more realistic. The bright parts are brighter and the dark shadows have more detail. It simply looks more like a movie theater. Dolby Atmos, through the TV speakers, provides a wider, more engaging sound. For watching films, this TV is in a different league than the others at this price.
How Effective is the AI 4K Upscaler and Sports Mode?
Toshiba says its AI upscaler provides near-4K quality for HD content. It also has a dedicated “Sports Mode.”
Test Result: The upscaling is very good. It makes HD sports broadcasts and shows look sharp and clear. The Sports Mode is not a gimmick. It makes the action smoother and easier to follow. If you watch a lot of football or racing, this is a fantastic feature.
Value Score: 9.5/10 for movie fans
At $169.99, the Toshiba is a steal. You are getting picture and sound technology that is usually found on TVs that cost $100 or $200 more. You are getting a better viewing experience than even the more expensive Samsung or Amazon Fire TV. The value for money here is exceptional if your priority is watching movies and sports.
Amazon Fire TV 43″ 4-Series: The Alexa Ecosystem Choice
The Amazon Fire TV 4-Series is made for people who live in Amazon’s world. It has the deepest Alexa integration and a new, sleek design. However, it is the most expensive TV on our list, and you are primarily paying for the Amazon brand and experience.
- Pros: Best Alexa voice control, new ultra-slim bezel design, solid picture quality.
- Cons: Highest price, Fire TV interface is full of ads.
Testing the Alexa Voice Remote and Smart Home Control
The key feature here is the “Alexa Voice Remote Enhanced.” We tested how it works for controlling the TV and your smart home.
Test Result: The voice control is the best of any TV here. You can say “Alexa, turn on the living room lights” without pressing a button. You can view live feeds from your security cameras on the big screen. If you have a house full of Alexa devices, this TV becomes the central hub for everything. It is very powerful and convenient.
Analyzing the New Design and Picture Quality
Amazon says this 2024 model has a new “ultra-slim bezel” to put your entertainment front and center.
Test Result: The design is a success. The bezels are very thin, making the screen look larger and more modern. It looks more expensive than it is. The picture quality is very good, with clear 4K and support for HDR10 and HLG. It’s a noticeable step up from the basic Insignia TV, which also uses Fire TV.
Value Score: 7.5/10
At $259.99, this is a tough sell. You are paying a premium for the Amazon name. The Toshiba offers better picture technology (Dolby Vision) for $90 less. The Roku offers a better smart TV interface for $30 less. This TV is only the right choice if you are completely invested in the Alexa ecosystem and want the absolute deepest integration. For everyone else, it is overpriced.
LG 43UA7700P: The Best TV for Gamers
The LG UA77 is the best choice for gamers and anyone who wants a powerful TV with a great picture processor. Its webOS system is smooth, and it has four HDMI ports, which is more than most. It’s a strong all-rounder with a focus on performance.
- Pros: Excellent AI processor, best for gaming with FreeSync/VRR, four HDMI ports, Filmmaker Mode.
- Cons: webOS system has a learning curve, not as much free content as Roku.
Testing the Alpha 7 AI Processor for Picture Quality
LG’s Alpha 7 AI Processor Gen8 handles upscaling and “Dynamic Tone Mapping.” We analyzed how this affects everyday viewing.
Test Result: This is one of the smartest TV processors in this price range. The upscaling is fantastic, making non-4K content look sharp and clean. The “Personalized Picture and Sound Wizard” is a unique feature that uses AI to tune the picture and sound to your preferences. It really works to make the picture look its best for you. The Filmmaker Mode is also great for movie purists.
How Good is it for Gaming?
This is the only TV here that specifically supports FreeSync and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) for gaming. We evaluated what this means for a gamer.
Test Result: For gamers, this is a huge deal. VRR and FreeSync prevent screen tearing and make gameplay much smoother. The input lag is also very low. Combined with the Game Optimizer dashboard, this TV provides a next-level gaming experience compared to the others. If you have an Xbox or a gaming PC, this TV will make your games look and feel better.
Value Score: 8.8/10
At $226.99, the LG is fairly priced. You are getting a high-performance TV with a great processor and fantastic gaming features. It’s not the absolute best for free content, but it is the best all-rounder for performance. If you game often, this TV is worth every penny.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Let’s settle some common debates by putting these TVs directly against each other.
Roku TV vs. Fire TV: Which Smart System is Best?
This is the biggest battle. We tested both systems for ease of use, content, and overall experience.
The Winner: Roku TV
- Ease of Use: Roku’s simple, linear menu is easier and faster to navigate than Fire TV’s busy, ad-heavy interface.
- Free Content: Roku offers over 500 free channels. Fire TV offers about 1.8 million free movies and episodes, but they are spread across many apps, making it harder to browse. Roku’s free content is easier to find and watch.
- Neutrality: Roku doesn’t favor one streaming service over another. Fire TV heavily promotes Amazon’s own content.
Verdict: The Roku system is the better, more user-friendly smart TV platform for most people.
Toshiba vs. Samsung: Which Has the Better Picture?
We compared the Toshiba’s Dolby Vision against the Samsung’s powerful upscaling.
The Winner: Toshiba C350
- For Movies: The Toshiba’s Dolby Vision support gives it a clear win for watching films and high-quality Netflix shows. The HDR performance is simply better.
- For Everything Else: The Samsung’s upscaling is slightly better for making low-quality cable TV or old DVDs look good.
Verdict: If you want the best overall picture quality for movies, the Toshiba is the winner. If you watch a lot of standard broadcast TV, the Samsung might have a slight edge.
Insignia vs. Toshiba: Is the Upgrade Worth $10?
Both are Fire TVs, but the Toshiba costs about $10 more. Is it worth it?
The Winner: Toshiba C350
For only about $10 more, the Toshiba gives you:
- Dolby Vision HDR for a much better picture.
- Dolby Atmos for better sound.
- A Sports Mode and better motion handling.
- A Game Mode with VRR support.
Verdict: The upgrade is absolutely worth it. The Toshiba provides a massively better experience for a tiny price increase.
Who Should Buy What? Your Personalized Guide
Your perfect TV depends on what you need. Use this guide to find it.
- For the Cord-Cutter Who Loves Free Content: Choose the Roku Select Series. Its 500+ free channels and simple guide are unbeatable.
- For the Movie Buff Who Wants the Best Picture: Choose the Toshiba C350. Dolby Vision and Atmos provide a cinematic experience others can’t match.
- For the Budget-First Buyer: Choose the Insignia F50. It’s the cheapest way to get a capable 4K smart TV.
- For the Alexa Smart Home Enthusiast: Choose the Amazon Fire TV 4-Series. The deep Alexa integration makes it a control center for your home.
- For the Gamer: Choose the LG UA77. Its VRR, FreeSync, and low input lag make it the best for gaming.
- For the Buyer Who Wants a Premium Feel: Choose the Samsung U8000F. Its metal design and sleek look make it stand out from the plastic crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which 43-inch TV under $300 has the most free channels?
The Roku Select Series has the most with over 500 free channels available directly through The Roku Channel. The Samsung is second with over 400 free channels on Samsung TV Plus.
Is a 60Hz refresh rate good for gaming?
For casual gaming on consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series S/X, 60Hz is perfectly fine. Look for a TV with a Game Mode to reduce lag. The LG TV is the best for gaming because it also supports VRR for an even smoother experience.
What is the cheapest 43-inch 4K TV you recommend?
The Insignia F50 at $159.99 is the cheapest TV we feel comfortable recommending. It provides a full smart TV experience and a 4K picture at a rock-bottom price.
Do I need Dolby Vision?
If you watch a lot of movies on Netflix, Disney+, or Apple TV+ that are in Dolby Vision, then yes, it makes a noticeable difference. It provides better colors and contrast. The Toshiba C350 is the only TV in this group under $200 that has it.
Final Verdict: Our Top Pick for Most People
After testing all six TVs, the winner is clear.
The Roku Select Series is the best 43-inch TV under $300 for most people.
It wins not by having one single amazing feature, but by being excellent at the most important thing: being a TV. Its smart system is the easiest and most enjoyable to use every day. It gives you more free content than any other option. It has a great remote and it’s priced fairly. You will never fight with this TV or feel frustrated. It just works.
For those with specific needs, we have other winners. Gamers should get the LG. Movie lovers should get the Toshiba. Those on a tight budget should get the Insignia.
But for anyone asking, “What is the best all-around TV?” the answer is the Roku Select Series. It is the reliable, high-value choice that we are confident you will love.