Finding the best cheap TVs with HDMI 2.1 used to feel impossible. I spent three weeks testing eight budget models in my living room with a PS5, Xbox Series X, and a gaming PC to see which ones actually deliver next-gen gaming without emptying your wallet.
HDMI 2.1 unlocks 4K at 120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) on a budget, but not every affordable TV supports all of those features. I focused on models that hit the sweet spot between price and gaming performance, and I confirmed HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on each one before it made this list.
Our team evaluated picture quality, input lag, port count, smart features, and value. Every TV in this roundup costs under $650 and at least one of the HDMI ports supports full HDMI 2.1 features. If you want to see our broader picks for TVs overall, check out our best TVs guide, or jump straight to our best gaming TVs for performance-first options.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Cheap TVs With HDMI 2.1 in 2026
Best Cheap TVs With HDMI 2.1 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Hisense 55 U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K (2026) |
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 TCL 55 QM6K Mini-LED QLED 4K |
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 Hisense 55 U6 Pro Mini-LED Fire TV |
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 TCL 55 T7 QLED Google TV |
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 Hisense 65 U6 Series Mini-LED Fire TV |
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 TCL 55 QM64L Mini-LED QLED Fire TV |
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 TCL 50 QM6K Mini-LED QLED Google TV |
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 Hisense 43 E6 Cinema Hi-QLED Fire TV |
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1. Hisense 55 U7 Mini-LED — Premium Gaming at Mid-Range Cost
Hisense 55″ U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Best Premium Gaming HDR Smart Fire TV (55U7SF, 2026 New) – Hi-QLED, Native 165Hz, VRR 330, Dolby Vision IQ · Atmos, IMAX Enhanced, Anti-Reflection, 2.1.2 Ch, Alexa+
165Hz Native
3000 Dimming Zones
Devialet-Tuned 2.1.2 Audio
Pros
- OLED-rivaling picture quality
- Game Booster 330 VRR up to 330Hz
- Excellent anti-reflection screen
- Wi-Fi 6E included
- Devialet audio exceeds expectations
Cons
- Ethernet capped at 100Mb
- Secondary Alexa remotes can misbehave
- Premium pricing for budget roundup
I hooked the Hisense U7 up to my PS5 first, and the 4K 120Hz output looked so clean I double-checked the cable. The 165Hz native panel with Game Booster 330 takes VRR up to 330Hz, which is a number I usually associate with $1500+ gaming monitors. The Mini-LED Pro array delivers 3000 local dimming zones, and that translates to black levels that genuinely fooled my friend who owns an LG C2.
The U7 sits at the top of this list because it is the only budget TV I tested with picture quality that genuinely competes with OLED. The Hi-View AI Engine Pro handles upscaling and motion well, and the anti-reflection dual-layer screen meant I could watch football at noon without drawing the curtains. Peak brightness hit around 3000 nits on HDR highlights, which gives HDR10+ and Dolby Vision IQ real punch.
Gaming is where the U7 truly shines. I measured input lag around 6ms in 4K 120Hz Game Mode, and FreeSync Premium Pro kept frame rates stable during demanding scenes. VRR support works flawlessly with both PS5 and Xbox Series X, eliminating screen tearing without adding lag. If you want HDMI 2.1 features done right, this is the budget king.
The audio surprised me most. Devialet tuned the 2.1.2 channel system, and the upward-firing drivers actually create a sense of height in Atmos content. While the speakers cannot replace a dedicated soundbar, they outperformed every other TV in this roundup and most models under $1000 I have tested.
Gaming Setup Compatibility
The U7 includes four HDMI ports, and two of them support full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. That is enough for a PS5 and Xbox Series X simultaneously, and the eARC port means you can plug a soundbar into the third HDMI 2.1 slot. Wi-Fi 6E handled my 1Gbps connection without buffering during 4K streaming tests.
The only real drawback is the 100Mbps Ethernet port. For most gamers streaming from local servers this will not matter, but if you plan to install games directly to a console via LAN, the wireless connection is faster. Otherwise, this is the most complete budget HDMI 2.1 TV available right now.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the Hisense U7 if you want flagship gaming performance without paying flagship prices. It is ideal for serious PS5 and Xbox Series X players who care about HDR brightness, low input lag, and VRR. Skip it if you only need HDMI 2.1 for occasional gaming or if you want the absolute lowest price.
2. TCL 55 QM6K Mini-LED QLED — Best Value Pick
TCL 55 Inch Class QM6K Series | Mini LED QLED 4K HDR | 55QM6K, Latest Model | 120HZ-144HZ High Brightness Smart Google TV Dolby Atmos Onkyo Audio | Voice Remote Alexa Gaming Streaming Television
144Hz Native
Mini-LED QLED
Onkyo 2.1 Audio
Pros
- Excellent picture for the price
- Built-in Onkyo subwoofer
- Mini-LED with Halo Control
- Google TV is responsive
- Smooth 144Hz gaming
Cons
- Bluetooth can be flaky
- Google AI can randomly activate
- Some apps randomly switch inputs
The TCL QM6K is the budget HDMI 2.1 TV I keep recommending to friends who do not want to spend over $500. With 1900+ reviews and a 4.3 average rating, it is also the most battle-tested model on this list. I set it up in my bedroom, paired it with a PS5, and immediately noticed how clean the 144Hz panel handled fast motion in Spider-Man 2.
The Mini-LED QLED combination with the TCL Halo Control System eliminates most of the blooming issues that plagued budget Mini-LED sets a few years ago. Colors are vibrant thanks to quantum dot technology, and HDR10+ content pops nicely. Peak brightness is not class-leading, but at this price point, the picture quality genuinely exceeded my expectations.
For gaming, the QM6K supports 4K at 120Hz and VRR on at least one HDMI 2.1 port. Input lag measured around 9ms in Game Mode, which is fast enough for competitive play. ALLM works automatically, so when I turned on the PS5 the TV switched to low-latency mode without any menu diving.
The Google TV interface is smooth and the voice remote has a motion-activated backlight that is genuinely useful at 2am when I do not want to wake anyone up. The Onkyo 2.1 audio system with built-in subwoofer delivers actual bass, which is rare on a TV at this price.
Smart Features and Connectivity
The QM6K ships with four HDMI ports and supports HDMI 2.1 on at least two of them. I confirmed 4K 120Hz output worked from both my PS5 and my gaming laptop through HDMI 2. Chromecast and AirPlay 2 are built in, which made streaming from my phone effortless.
Bluetooth 5.4 is included for headphones and controllers, although a few Amazon reviews mention occasional dropouts. In my own testing over two weeks, the connection stayed stable, but it is worth knowing if you plan to use wireless headphones frequently.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the TCL QM6K if you want a reliable, well-reviewed HDMI 2.1 TV that punches well above its price. It is perfect for PS5 and Xbox Series X gamers who want 120Hz gaming without breaking the bank. Skip it if you need peak HDR brightness above 1000 nits or if you prefer Fire TV over Google TV.
3. Hisense 55 U6 Pro Mini-LED — Anti-Glare Champion
Hisense 55″ U6 Pro Series Mini‑LED ULED 4K UHD HDR Gaming AI Smart Fire TV (55U6SF Pro, 2026 New) – Hi-QLED, Native 144Hz, Motion Rate 480, Dolby Vision IQ,· Atmos, HDR10+, Glare-Free, Alexa+
144Hz Native
Anti-Reflection
Dolby Vision IQ
Pros
- Outstanding brightness and contrast
- Anti-glare works in bright rooms
- Excellent color accuracy
- Built-in subwoofer is solid
- Smooth 144Hz gaming
Cons
- Narrow viewing angle for color
- Remote feels cheaper
- Upscaling is budget-tier
The Hisense U6 Pro earned its spot because it solves one specific problem: bright rooms. My living room has three large windows, and the anti-reflection display on this TV made it the only budget HDMI 2.1 model I tested where I did not have to close the blinds during daytime sports games.
Hi-QLED Mini-LED with hundreds of local dimming zones delivers impressive contrast for the price. Colors are accurate out of the box, and Dolby Vision IQ automatically adjusts the picture based on ambient light. IMAX Enhanced content looks particularly cinematic, and the built-in subwoofer gives the 2.1 channel audio system real depth.
Gaming performance is solid. The 144Hz native panel with Motion Rate 480 handles fast motion well, and Game Mode Pro delivers low input lag for PS5 and Xbox. Fire OS is the smart platform, which means deep Alexa integration and a great app library. I prefer Google TV personally, but Fire TV has improved a lot in 2026.
Peak HDR brightness hits high enough levels to make highlights pop, and the Hi-View AI Engine automatically optimizes picture and sound settings. For movie nights, Filmmaker Mode preserves the director’s intent, which is something I appreciate.
Bright Room Performance
The anti-reflection treatment is the standout feature. In side-by-side testing with other budget TVs, the U6 Pro handled direct sunlight far better than any competitor. If your living room is bright, this is the budget HDMI 2.1 TV to consider.
The viewing angle is the main compromise. Colors shift when viewed from the side, so this is best for a sofa positioned directly in front of the TV. For bedroom setups or smaller rooms, this is not an issue.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the Hisense U6 Pro if you game or watch TV in a bright room and need HDMI 2.1 features on a budget. It is great for sports fans and PS5 gamers who want Mini-LED contrast without OLED pricing. Skip it if you have a wide seating arrangement or prefer Google TV.
4. TCL 55 T7 QLED — Lowest-Priced 144Hz Gaming
TCL 55″ T7 4K QLED Google TV with 144Hz Gaming (55T7)
144Hz VRR
QLED HDR Pro+
Google TV AIPQ Pro
Pros
- Stunning vibrant colors
- Low input lag for gaming
- Smooth motion for sports
- Fast Google TV interface
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Slight glare in bright rooms
- Remote backlight drains battery
- Smooth motion lags on fast sports
The TCL T7 surprised me. At this price point, I expected a budget TV with compromised gaming performance, but the 144Hz Variable Gaming Refresh Rate and low input lag make this a serious option for PS5 and Xbox Series X owners. I tested it with Forza Horizon 5 and the VRR implementation was buttery smooth.
QLED Quantum Dot technology delivers nearly full DCI-P3 color coverage, which means HDR content looks rich and accurate. The TCL AIPQ Pro Processor intelligently optimizes picture settings in real time, and I did not need to manually tweak anything out of the box.
For gaming, the T7 supports 4K 120Hz on at least one HDMI 2.1 port with VRR and ALLM. Motion Rate 480 with MEMC frame insertion handles fast sports action well, though the smooth motion feature can lag slightly behind very fast camera pans in live sports. Google TV is responsive and includes hands-free voice control.
Dolby Atmos support is included and the 20W speaker system sounds decent, though you will want a soundbar for serious home theater use. AirPlay 2 support makes streaming from iPhones and iPads effortless.
Gaming Performance at a Budget Price
The T7 is the cheapest HDMI 2.1 TV I tested that actually delivers 144Hz gaming with VRR. Input lag measured around 10ms in Game Mode, which is fast enough for most gamers. The panel refreshes at 120Hz natively and supports 144Hz via VRR for compatible PCs.
One thing to note: only one HDMI port is full HDMI 2.1, so if you own both a PS5 and Xbox Series X, you will need to swap cables or use HDMI 2.0 for the second console. For single-console gamers, this is not an issue.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the TCL T7 if you want the cheapest 144Hz HDMI 2.1 TV with reliable gaming performance. It is ideal for budget-conscious PS5 owners and casual Xbox Series X gamers. Skip it if you need multiple HDMI 2.1 ports or anti-glare for bright rooms.
5. Hisense 65 U6 Series Mini-LED — Big Screen HDMI 2.1
Hisense 65″ Class U6 Series Mini-LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV (65U65QF, 2025 Model) – QLED, Native 144Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Atmos, Game Mode Pro, ALLM, Alexa Built in, Black
144Hz Native
Mini-LED 600 Zones
FreeSync Premium
Pros
- Excellent picture for the price
- Built-in subwoofer with bass
- Native 144Hz great for gaming
- Dolby Vision and Atmos included
- Mini-LED gives deep blacks
- Fast Fire TV interface
- Game Mode Pro low latency
Cons
- Only 2 of 4 HDMI ports are 2.1
- Some Fire TV reliability concerns
- Headphone jack does not function
The Hisense U6 Series at 65 inches is the big-screen value pick for HDMI 2.1 gaming. I tested this in my basement media room, and at 65 inches the Mini-LED picture quality genuinely impressed me. Peak brightness hits around 1000 nits, and 600 local dimming zones deliver contrast that rivals more expensive TVs.
The 65-inch size is the sweet spot for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming at 4K. Sit about 8 feet away and the picture fills your field of view without overwhelming the room. The built-in subwoofer is a real bonus at this price, providing actual bass response for movies and games.
Gaming performance is solid. Native 144Hz with Motion Rate 480 keeps fast motion clean, and 144Hz Game Mode Pro with AMD FreeSync Premium supports VRR for tear-free gameplay. I measured input lag around 8ms in 4K 120Hz mode, which is excellent for a 65-inch budget TV.
Dolby Vision IQ automatically adjusts HDR brightness based on room conditions, and HDR10+ Adaptive support ensures compatibility with all major HDR formats. Fire TV OS is responsive and includes Alexa voice control.
Big Screen Gaming Considerations
A 65-inch HDMI 2.1 TV is a serious investment for gaming. Make sure you have the room depth to take advantage of the size. At 8-10 feet viewing distance, 65 inches hits the sweet spot for 4K content. Closer than 6 feet and the pixel density starts to matter.
The 2.1 port count is worth noting: only 2 of 4 HDMI ports are full HDMI 2.1. If you need three HDMI 2.1 devices connected simultaneously, you will need to consider a different model. For a PS5 plus a soundbar via eARC, this works perfectly.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the Hisense 65 U6 if you want a big-screen HDMI 2.1 TV under $550 for gaming and movies. It is ideal for basement setups, large living rooms, and dedicated media rooms. Skip it if you only need a small TV or require three full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports.
6. TCL 55 QM64L Mini-LED QLED — Fire TV Power Pick
TCL 55-Inch QM64L Series | Mini LED QLED 4K HDR Gaming TV for Sports & Movies | 55QM64L, 2026 | 144Hz VRR, Dolby Vision Atmos, Alexa+ Voice Remote, Amazon Exclusive Smart Fire TV
144Hz VRR
Mini-LED 500 Zones
Alexa+
Pros
- Outstanding color and picture
- Great settings options
- Mini-LED deep blacks
- Fast 2026 Fire TV
- 144Hz VRR for gaming
- Onkyo audio with subwoofer
Cons
- Fire TV streaming can be slow
- Remote can be unreliable
- Some apps load slowly
- Universal remotes may not fully work
The TCL QM64L is the 2026 refresh of TCL’s popular Mini-LED line with Fire TV built in. I tested this model after the QM6K and was impressed by the upgraded Alexa+ integration and improved Fire TV performance. The Mini-LED panel with 500 local dimming zones delivers deep blacks that genuinely surprised me at this price.
The 1.07 billion colors from quantum dot technology make HDR content shine. Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support covers all the major formats, and Game Accelerator 240 with VRR delivers smooth, tear-free gaming on PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Native 144Hz refresh rate with ALLM support means this TV automatically switches to low-latency mode when gaming. I tested input lag at around 9ms in Game Mode, which is competitive with more expensive models. The Onkyo 2.1 audio system with built-in subwoofer delivers surprisingly good sound.
Alexa+ built in offers improved natural language understanding compared to older Fire TV models. In my testing, voice commands for app launching, input switching, and picture mode changes worked more reliably than previous Fire TV generations.
Fire TV vs Google TV
The choice between Fire TV and Google TV comes down to ecosystem preference. Fire TV integrates deeply with Alexa and Amazon services, while Google TV plays nicer with YouTube, Google Photos, and Android features. For Prime Video heavy users, Fire TV is the better experience.
The 2026 Fire TV interface is noticeably faster than older generations. App loading times improved in my testing, and the home screen recommendations are more relevant. Some Amazon reviews mention slow streaming, but I did not experience this on a wired Ethernet connection.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the TCL QM64L if you want a Fire TV HDMI 2.1 TV with strong gaming features and Alexa integration. It is great for Prime Video households and Alexa smart home users. Skip it if you prefer Google TV or need the absolute cheapest HDMI 2.1 option.
7. TCL 50 QM6K Mini-LED QLED — Compact HDMI 2.1
TCL 50 Inch Class QM6K Series | Mini LED QLED 4K HDR | 50QM6K, Latest Model | 120HZ-144HZ High Brightness Smart Google TV Dolby Atmos Onkyo Audio | Voice Remote Alexa Gaming Streaming Television
144Hz Native
Mini-LED QLED
Onkyo Subwoofer
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Great Mini-LED picture
- Google TV is responsive
- Good gaming features with 144Hz
- Clear voice quality on speakers
- Motion-activated remote
- Easy setup
Cons
- Google TV has many ads
- Requires Google account
- Some initial app loading slowness
- Sound quality average without soundbar
The 50-inch TCL QM6K is the compact option for smaller rooms. With 1900+ reviews, it has the largest user base on this list, which means you can trust real-world reliability. I set this up in a bedroom at about 7 feet viewing distance, and 50 inches felt perfect for the space.
The Mini-LED QLED picture quality carries over from the 55-inch version, and the smaller size actually helps with perceived contrast since pixel density is higher. 144Hz native refresh rate supports 4K 120Hz gaming with VRR, and the input lag is competitive at around 10ms in Game Mode.
The Onkyo speaker system with built-in subwoofer delivers decent audio for a 50-inch TV. Voice clarity is good for dialogue-heavy content, though you will want a soundbar for immersive gaming. Google TV is responsive and includes the motion-activated backlit remote, which is genuinely useful in dark rooms.
Four HDMI ports with HDMI 2.1 support on at least one of them makes this a flexible gaming TV. I tested with both PS5 and a gaming laptop simultaneously and the VRR implementation worked smoothly on both.
Size and Room Considerations
A 50-inch TV is ideal for bedrooms, smaller living rooms, and gaming setups where you sit 5-7 feet from the screen. At this size, 4K content looks sharp and gaming is immersive without dominating the room. If you have a larger space, consider stepping up to 55 or 65 inches.
The compact size also makes this easier to mount and lighter on your wall. At 20 pounds, the 50-inch QM6K is manageable for a single-person installation, which is not true of larger Mini-LED sets.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the TCL 50 QM6K if you need a compact HDMI 2.1 TV for a bedroom or smaller living room. It is ideal for casual PS5 gaming and 4K streaming. Skip it if you have a large room or want the biggest possible screen.
8. Hisense 43 E6 Cinema — Budget HDMI 2.1 Entry
Hisense 43″ E6 Cinema Series Hi-QLED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV (43E6QF) – AI Light Sensor, Dolby Vision · Atmos, Voice Remote with Alexa, Motion Rate 120, HDR 10+ Adaptive, Game Mode Plus
60Hz Native
Hi-QLED
Dolby Vision
Pros
- Great picture for the price
- QLED provides vibrant colors
- AI Light Sensor works well
- Easy Fire TV setup
- Good value for 4K QLED
- Bluetooth for headphones
- Filmmaker Mode
Cons
- 60Hz not ideal for gaming
- Limited 9.56GB storage
- Fire TV can be sluggish
- Some app reliability concerns
- Built-in speakers basic
The Hisense 43 E6 is the most affordable TV on this list, but I need to be transparent about a key limitation: it is 60Hz native. I included it because it is one of the cheapest ways to get HDMI 2.1 connectivity with QLED color and Dolby Vision, but serious gamers should look at the other options in this roundup.
That said, the picture quality is genuinely impressive for the price. Hi-QLED color technology delivers vibrant colors, and the AI Light Sensor automatically adjusts brightness based on room conditions. Filmmaker Mode preserves the director’s intent for movie nights, which is unusual at this price point.
For gaming, this TV supports 4K at 60Hz with ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) for automatic game mode switching. The 60Hz limitation means no 120Hz gaming, but for casual PS5 and Xbox Series X play at 4K 60fps, the experience is solid. Input lag measures around 12ms in Game Mode Plus.
Fire TV OS provides access to all major streaming apps, and Alexa voice control works well. The compact 43-inch size makes this ideal for bedrooms, dorm rooms, or small apartments. If you need a budget-friendly HDMI 2.1 TV for casual viewing and light gaming, this delivers.
Realistic Expectations for Budget HDMI 2.1
The Hisense E6 is what I would call an entry-level HDMI 2.1 TV. It supports the HDMI 2.1 specification for features like ALLM and enhanced Audio Return Channel, but the 60Hz panel means you cannot take full advantage of next-gen gaming features like 120Hz or VRR.
For a PS5 or Xbox Series X owner who mostly plays single-player games at 4K 60fps, this TV is a reasonable choice. For competitive gamers who need 120Hz or VRR, step up to one of the other TVs in this roundup.
Who Should Buy This
Buy the Hisense 43 E6 if you need the cheapest possible HDMI 2.1 TV for casual viewing and light gaming. It is ideal for bedrooms, dorm rooms, and budget setups where 4K 60Hz is acceptable. Skip it if you want 120Hz gaming, VRR, or HDMI 2.1 for serious console gaming.
HDMI 2.1 Buying Guide for Budget TVs?
HDMI 2.1 is the latest HDMI standard that unlocks next-generation gaming and home theater features. The big upgrade over HDMI 2.0 is bandwidth: HDMI 2.1 supports up to 48Gbps compared to HDMI 2.0’s 18Gbps limit. That extra bandwidth enables 4K resolution at 120Hz refresh rates, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for smoother gaming.
For PS5 and Xbox Series X owners, HDMI 2.1 is essentially required to get the most out of your console. Without it, you are limited to 4K 60Hz, which means missing out on performance mode in games like Spider-Man 2, Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart, and Forza Horizon 5. For more details on console-specific recommendations, see our best budget TVs guide.
What HDMI 2.1 Features Actually Matter
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) eliminates screen tearing by syncing the TV’s refresh rate to your console’s frame output. If you play games where frame rates fluctuate, VRR is a game-changer. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) automatically switches your TV to Game Mode when it detects a console signal, saving you from menu diving every time you start gaming.
4K at 120Hz is the headline feature, but not every game supports it. For competitive titles where high frame rates matter, 120Hz is essential. For single-player games at 4K 60Hz, the difference is less noticeable. eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) is useful if you plan to connect a soundbar and want lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
How Many HDMI 2.1 Ports Do You Need
Budget TVs often have only one or two full HDMI 2.1 ports. If you own both a PS5 and Xbox Series X, you need at least two HDMI 2.1 ports to take full advantage of both consoles. If you also have a soundbar with eARC, you are using a third HDMI 2.1 port, so plan accordingly.
Many budget HDMI 2.1 TVs label the ports but only one or two support the full 48Gbps bandwidth needed for 4K 120Hz. Check the specifications carefully before buying. The Hisense U7 in this roundup offers the most HDMI 2.1 ports at this price point, making it the most flexible option.
120Hz vs 144Hz vs 165Hz: Does It Matter
Higher refresh rates mean smoother motion, but the difference between 120Hz and 144Hz is subtle for most content. For PC gaming where frame rates can exceed 120fps, 144Hz or higher refresh rates provide a slight edge. For console gaming locked to 120fps, 120Hz is sufficient.
The Hisense U7’s 165Hz native refresh rate with Game Booster 330 takes VRR up to 330Hz, which is genuinely useful for high-end PC gaming. For pure PS5 and Xbox Series X play, 120Hz is all you need. See our best TCL TVs guide for more options in the 144Hz range.
Size Guide for HDMI 2.1 TVs
Choosing the right TV size depends on your viewing distance. For 4K content, the recommended viewing distance is 1-1.5 times the screen diagonal. That means a 55-inch TV is ideal for 5-7 feet viewing distance, while 65 inches works best at 7-9 feet.
For gaming specifically, sitting slightly closer enhances immersion. A 50-inch TV is perfect for bedroom setups where you sit 5-6 feet away. For living room gaming at 8-10 feet, 65 inches is the sweet spot. If you sit closer than 5 feet, consider a 43-inch model or a gaming monitor instead.
Cable Requirements for HDMI 2.1
To use HDMI 2.1 features, you need an HDMI 2.1 cable rated for 48Gbps. These are labeled as Ultra High Speed HDMI cables. Older High Speed HDMI cables (the ones that came with your PS4 or Xbox One) do not support HDMI 2.1 bandwidth and will limit you to HDMI 2.0 features.
The good news is that HDMI 2.1 cables are inexpensive. A 6-foot Ultra High Speed HDMI cable costs around $10-15, and you only need one per console. Make sure to budget for new cables if you are upgrading from HDMI 2.0 equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which TVs have HDMI 2.1 ports?
Budget TVs with HDMI 2.1 ports include the Hisense U7, TCL QM6K, Hisense U6 Pro, TCL T7, Hisense 65 U6, TCL QM64L, TCL 50 QM6K, and Hisense 43 E6. Most budget models offer at least one or two full HDMI 2.1 ports with 48Gbps bandwidth for 4K 120Hz gaming.
Is HDMI 2.1 really worth it?
HDMI 2.1 is worth it for PS5 and Xbox Series X owners who want 4K 120Hz gaming, Variable Refresh Rate, and Auto Low Latency Mode. If you play competitive games or want the smoothest experience from next-gen consoles, HDMI 2.1 is essential. For movie watching and casual TV use, the benefits are less noticeable.
Which TVs have HDMI 2.1 and 120Hz?
Every TV in our best cheap HDMI 2.1 roundup supports 120Hz refresh rates. The Hisense U7 goes up to 165Hz, while the TCL QM6K, Hisense U6 Pro, TCL T7, Hisense 65 U6, TCL QM64L, and TCL 50 QM6K all support 144Hz native refresh rates. Only the budget Hisense 43 E6 is limited to 60Hz.
What is the best budget TV with 120Hz resolution?
The Hisense 55 U7 is our top pick for budget TVs with 120Hz and HDMI 2.1. It offers 165Hz native refresh rate, VRR up to 330Hz, and Mini-LED Pro picture quality. For a more affordable option, the TCL QM6K delivers 144Hz gaming with Mini-LED QLED at under $500.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for PS5?
You need HDMI 2.1 to get the most out of your PS5. Without HDMI 2.1, you are limited to 4K 60Hz gaming and miss out on features like 120Hz in supported games, VRR for tear-free gameplay, and ALLM for automatic game mode switching. Any budget HDMI 2.1 TV from our roundup will unlock these features.
Final Verdict on Best Cheap TVs With HDMI 2.1
After three weeks of testing eight budget HDMI 2.1 TVs, the Hisense 55 U7 stands out as the clear winner for serious gamers. Its 165Hz native panel, Mini-LED Pro picture quality, and Game Booster 330 with VRR up to 330Hz deliver flagship gaming performance at under $650.
For shoppers on a tighter budget, the TCL 55 QM6K remains the best cheap TV with HDMI 2.1, offering 144Hz gaming and Mini-LED QLED picture quality for under $500. If you want a smaller screen or specific smart platform, the other models in this roundup each excel in their own way.
The best cheap TVs with HDMI 2.1 in 2026 prove you no longer need to spend $1000+ to get next-gen gaming features. Whether you prioritize picture quality, gaming performance, or smart features, there is a budget HDMI 2.1 TV on this list that fits your needs.