Most Mid & Budget TVs Are Still Gimmicky in 2026
In 2026, the Indian TV market continues to be flooded with misleading claims, poor quality panels, and marketing tricks. Many TVs in the mid-range and budget category offer:
- Fake refresh rates (boosted to 120/240Hz with software but only 60Hz native)
- Over-processed and oversaturated colors
- Low contrast with no local dimming
- Glare issues in bright rooms
- Poor viewing angles
Most influencers on YouTube either get free units or borrow TVs from brands. So, they rarely speak negatively about products. If a creator doesn’t clearly call their video a “review,” they are not legally bound to disclose sponsorships and can hide flaws or exaggerate strengths using vague terms like “RealView” or “TrueTest.”
I created this buying guide after personally visiting multiple showrooms and testing TVs independently. No brand controls or sponsors my content. I will update this guide regularly as newer models are released.
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Best TVs Under 50k in India (2026)
LG QNED 8AA Smart TV
- QNED display with Dynamic QNED Colour wide-gamut technology
- HDR support: HDR10 + HLG; local dimming for better contrast
- 3 HDMI ports (one with eARC), 2 USB ports
- Gaming features: ALLM + VRR support (to some extent)
Samsung Crystal Vista Pro
- 4K UHD display with HDR10+ and Crystal Processor 4K.
- 20W sound with Object Tracking & Q-Symphony.
- Alexa, Bixby, AirPlay & SmartThings support.
- 3 HDMI, 1 USB, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2 + eARC.
- 1 + 1 year panel warranty.
Lumio Vision 7
- Super fast performance with BOSS processor and 3GB RAM.
- Stunning QLED 4K display with Dolby Vision and vibrant colors.
- Powerful 30W speakers with Dolby Atmos for rich sound.
- All modern ports, HDMI 2.1, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.
- Comes with 2-year brand warranty
Best Non-OLED TVs in India (2026)
- Sony Bravia 7 QLED Mini LED
- Mini LED panel with full-array local dimming
- Native 120Hz refresh rate
- Great contrast and brightness
- Excellent upscaling and motion handling
- Viewing angles are average
- Slight glare in very bright rooms
Ideal for premium home use. A strong alternative to OLED if you prefer LED longevity and high brightness.
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2. Sony X90L Full Array LED
- Full Array LED with local dimming
- 120Hz refresh rate, VRR support, HDMI 2.1
- Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, DTS Audio
- High peak brightness, low input lag
- S-Center speaker support
- Viewing angles are narrower than QD-OLED
A well-rounded LED TV for those who want gaming, movies, and HDR performance without moving to OLED.
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3. TCL QD-Mini LED Google TV
- QD-Mini LED Matte HVA Panel
- Native 144Hz refresh rate
- Excellent brightness and reflection handling
- Wide viewing angles
- Dolby Atmos , Dts Virtual-X
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4. Sony Bravia 3 (Budget Pick)
- Edge-lit LED panel, 60Hz refresh rate
- No local dimming, no VRR, no HDMI 2.1
- Blacks appear grey due to poor contrast
- Decent brightness, basic HDR performance
- Wide viewing angle
- Good upscaling for HD/SD content
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Buying Tips for 2026
- Always verify native refresh rate, not “Motion Rate” or “XR Rate”
- Look for local dimming in LED TVs for proper black levels
- Choose Mini LED over standard LED if OLED is not an option
- OLED is unmatched for watching movies, HDR, or gaming in dim lighting
- Avoid TVs from lesser-known brands unless you’re on a strict budget
- Prefer 2024–25 models for software updates and future compatibility
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Conclusion
TVs are long-term investments. Don’t get lured by false marketing or influencer hype. I will keep this guide updated with new showroom-tested models and verified reviews.
Drop a comment if you’re stuck between two models, happy to help!