New Delhi [India], May 30: Gaming on a console is more than just plugging in and playing. It’s about creating a fully immersive experience. Nowadays, gamers expect low input lag, smooth refresh rates, rich colour reproduction, and thunderous audio. The best part? You don’t need to spend beyond your budget to get a TV that delivers on all of that.
As gaming continues to evolve across platforms like the PS5, Xbox Series X, and cloud-based systems, TV brands are stepping up with advanced technology even in their affordable lineups. Features like HDMI 2.1, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Dolby Atmos are now accessible to gamers without premium price tags. So, which brands are leading the charge in the budget gaming segment?
Let’s explore six of the most reliable TV brands that bring console gaming to life without compromising on performance or price.
1. TCL: Dominating Budget Gaming with Premium Tech
TCL has emerged as a powerhouse in gaming-ready televisions by integrating top-tier tech into affordable packages. With innovations like Premium QD Mini LED displays, a blazing-fast 240Hz Variable Refresh Rate (supporting 144Hz native refresh rate), and features such as Game Master Pro 2.0, TCL sets the standard for what a budget gaming TV should look like. It’s the only brand in this segment that consistently delivers HDMI 2.1, VRR, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support in its mid-range models, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience on next-gen consoles and PCs.
Paired with Onkyo 2.1 channel audio systems, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Virtual:X, TCL TVs offer an unparalleled sensory gaming experience. Whether you’re storming battlefields or racing through futuristic cities, TCL’s deep contrast, smooth 144Hz visuals, and low input lag keep you locked into the action without tearing or stuttering, especially with the benefits of 240Hz VRR and FreeSync Premium Pro. The inclusion of multiple HDMI 2.1 ports means you can connect all your high-performance gaming devices without compromise.
2. LG: A Consistent Performer with Smart Gaming Tweaks
LG may be better known for its OLED lineup, but its budget offerings are no slouch either. The brand’s Game Optimiser, HGiG support, and ALLM are present even in entry-level LED models, providing decent performance for casual and mid-level gamers.
WebOS also offers a clean and fast UI for streaming between matches. LG’s commitment to screen calibration ensures visuals stay accurate, even if refresh rates aren’t as high as competitors. Gamers looking for brand trust and smart software will appreciate LG’s user-friendly integration.
3. Samsung: Stylish Panels with Smooth Playback
Samsung’s Crystal UHD range offers excellent colour accuracy, HDR performance, and stable refresh rates. Auto Game Mode and Game Motion Plus help optimise gameplay visuals, while ALLM ensures quick screen response when a console is detected.
Tizen OS powers Samsung’s smart ecosystem, offering intuitive navigation and fast access to gaming and media apps. While Samsung’s premium models cater to hardcore gamers, its budget range balances price and performance for moderate use.
4. Sony: Trusted Visuals for Story-Driven Games
Sony’s entry-level Bravia models deliver dependable performance for gamers who appreciate cinematic visuals and narrative-heavy titles. Features like 4K X-Reality Pro upscaling, Motionflow XR, and ALLM make them a solid pick for console users.
While Sony lacks some of the dedicated gaming features seen in TCL or Samsung, the image quality and colour calibration remain class leading. It’s a solid option for single-player enthusiasts who prioritise storytelling over ultra-competitive play.
5. Hisense: The Feature-Heavy Budget Contender
Hisense has quickly earned a spot among budget-savvy gamers by packing in high-end features at lower price points. Its TVS are game-ready right out of the box with Dolby Vision, HDR10, Game Mode Plus, and VRR support. Its Google TV interface ensures smooth app navigation and voice controls.
While the build quality may feel more entry-level, the visual and audio performance more than make up for it. Hisense appeals to users looking for broad compatibility across gaming and streaming needs.
6. Xiaomi: Youth-Oriented Design with Gaming in Mind
Xiaomi’s budget TVs are engineered for younger audiences, especially those building their first gaming setups. With support for ALLM, decent refresh rates, and smooth Android TV integration, Xiaomi TVs are an affordable yet stylish choice.
While most models do not feature HDMI 2.1 or Dolby Atmos, the overall viewing experience and responsive interfaces suit casual gaming and media consumption well. For budget-first users, Xiaomi gets the job done without frills.
Every brand featured in this list brings something valuable to the table for budget-conscious gamers. Whether it’s LG’s user-friendly interface, Sony’s unmatched visual quality, or Hisense’s diverse feature set, there’s no shortage of options. TCL, however, makes a compelling case with its well-rounded package that includes QD Mini LED technology, up to 240Hz VRR, 144Hz native refresh rate, HDMI 2.1 support, and immersive audio powered by Onkyo. With added bonuses like IMAX Enhanced certification and Dolby Atmos, TCL offers a lot of performance for a price that won’t break the bank.
That said, choosing the right TV depends on your specific needs and preferences. TCL shines in terms of providing high-end features at a competitive price, but for some gamers, other brands may still hold the edge in areas like interface design or premium build. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the one that suits your gaming experience and budget the most. So, what are you waiting for now? Game on!
Don’t just play — immerse yourself. Explore the TCL Q6C on Amazon and bring home the future of entertainment today.
Visit TCL India at https://www.tcl.com/in/en
