It used to be that there was a chasm in terms of cost and quality between the top-of-the-range televisions for the wealthy, and the average sets for the rest of us. Nowadays, technology has improved so much that it’s not difficult to get a snazzy TV on a small budget. High street stores like Currys have whole sections on their website dedicated to the high quality cheap TV. But with so much on offer, which ones are the best value for money? Let’s take a look at some prime examples currently available…
Sony Bravia KDL-40EX503
Truly an up-to-date machine, the Sony Bravia KDL-40EX503 was one of the first commercially available Freeview TVs. Alongside its HD tuner is an on-board internet video platform, all broadcasting rich, deep images – even when not watching HD content.
Samsung LE40C650
Affordable, sharp, blur-free. The Samsung LE40C650 is a good-value set, even with its imperfections. Namely the inconsistent backlight and slight input lag – not the best choice for gamers, but perfectly adequate for television viewing. Short of getting an LED panel set, you can’t get much better value for watching movies and TV programmes. Packed with features, the Samsung LE40C650 is a quality cheap TV.
LG Infinia 47LE8900
Glamorous, slim and sexy, the LG Infinia 47LE8900 uses LED backlighting to produce a first-rate HD picture, making 20th Century definition pictures seem drab and lifeless in comparison. Its slimness does mean the sound quality is compromise, and there is a slight input lag – again, a big disadvantage for console players. But this machine will please compatibility nuts, with a plethora of sockets, including four HDMI inputs.
Sharp LC22D12E HD
For those on the lowest of budgets, you can’t go far wrong with the Sharp LC22D12E (pictures). Freeview tuner, HD ready – this is the ideal cheap tv for people on a shoestring. When purchased from the aforementioned Currys, the Sharp LC22D12E is available with the option of half-price cables for external devices, helping you to keep costs down even further.
