{
  "id": 2538105,
  "title": "I test TVs for a living — here's what I'd buy for $500, $1,000 and $2,000 in 2026",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/i-test-tvs-for-a-living-heres-what-id-buy-for-500-1-000-and-2-000-in",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-22T08:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/tvs/4k-tvs/i-test-tvs-for-a-living-heres-what-id-buy-for-usd500-usd1-000-and-usd2-000-in-2026"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "When friends and acquaintances ask for my professional opinion on purchasing a new TV within a specific budget, I usually receive three main price ranges: $500, $1,000, and $2,000. Although there are cheaper options and ultra-premium TVs above $2,000, most of the best TVs fall within the $500 to $2,000 range. In this scenario, I will provide my expert advice on the best TVs in each budget category.\n\nAt $500, the Hisense U6SF Pro (55 inches) is an excellent choice. This TV features Mini-LED backlighting, offering a peak brightness of 1,200 to 1,400 nits, perfect for both daytime and movie viewing. It includes two HDMI 2.1 inputs and supports 4K gaming at 120Hz, making it a versatile and affordable option. However, it is limited to a 55-inch screen size.\n\nThe $1,000 budget opens up numerous possibilities. Among them, the 55-inch TCL QM7L stands out as one of the best mid-range TVs of the year. This TV comes with TCL's brand-new Super Quantum Dot (SQD) display technology, which enhances color range on Mini-LED displays. The QM7L delivers a color volume similar to the flagship TCL QM8L, making it a great value for its price. It is currently available for just under $1,000.\n\nFinally, at $2,000, the Sony Bravia 7 II (65 inches) is an outstanding choice. With Sony's True RGB technology, this TV offers a wide color range and comparable features to Sony's top-tier Bravia 9 II. While not as bright as the high-end model, the Bravia 7 II still provides a punchy and cinematic viewing experience for a reasonable price.",
  "summary": "I've spent over a decade testing and reviewing the best TVs on shelves. Here are the TV deals I'd buy right now across three popular price points.",
  "key_points": [
    "At $500, Hisense U6SF Pro (55\") offers Mini-LED backlighting and 120Hz gaming",
    "$1,000 TCL QM7L features Super Quantum Dot display for vibrant colors",
    "Sony Bravia 7 II (65\") provides True RGB technology for cinematic experience"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}