Struggling to find a new TV without breaking the bank? You’re not alone! Finding a TV under $100 these days is definitely a challenge, but not entirely impossible if you know where to look and what to expect. While you won’t be snagging a giant 4K powerhouse for that price, there are still some decent options out there for smaller spaces, secondary screens, or for folks who just need the absolute basics. Think small, think practical, and get ready to manage those expectations a bit. The good news is, for a really tight budget, you can still find a screen that gets the job done for casual viewing, whether it’s for a kitchen, a dorm room, or a kids’ play area. Let’s dig into how to get the most out of your hundred bucks.

Let’s be real for a moment: the TV market has changed a lot. Back in the day, it might have been easier to stumble upon a new 32-inch TV for around a hundred bucks, but today, that price point is super tough for new products. Most brand-new TVs, even smaller ones, usually start a bit higher. We’re talking generally in the $100 to $200 range for the entry-level models. For example, brands like TCL and Insignia often have 32-inch options that might dip close to this during sales, but they often hover just above $100.

So, if your budget is strictly under $100, you’re primarily looking at:

Very small screen sizes: Think 24 inches or less, maybe a rare 32-inch on deep discount.
Basic features: Don’t expect fancy 4K resolution, HDR, or high refresh rates. You’ll likely get 720p HD.
Entry-level brands: Brands like Onn, Insignia, or other store-brand models are your most likely candidates.
Limited availability: These deals often come and go quickly, especially during sales events.
Refurbished or used options: This is where you might get more screen size and features for your dollar.

It’s crucial to set your expectations right. A TV in this price range isn’t going to be your main home theater display, and it likely won’t blow you away with picture quality or premium features. What it will do is provide a functional screen for watching basic cable, streaming services, or connecting a gaming console.

Table of Contents

New TVs You Might Find Under $100 The Unicorns

Believe it or not, a few new TVs occasionally drop into the sub-$100 category, mostly from lesser-known brands or during massive sales. The key here is “occasionally” and “very small.”

Onn Roku Smart TVs

When searching for TVs under $100, the Onn brand from Walmart consistently appears as one of the most affordable options. These are typically 24-inch or 32-inch models and often come with Roku’s smart TV platform built-in, which is a huge plus for streaming.

Onn 24-inch Class HD 720P LED Roku Smart Television: You might find this one for around $74. This size is perfect for a dorm room, kitchen counter, or a small bedroom. It’s a 720p HD display, so it won’t be the sharpest picture, but it’s totally fine for casual viewing. Having Roku TV built-in means you get instant access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video without needing an extra device.
Onn 32-inch Class HD 720P LED Roku Smart Television: Sometimes, this model can be found for around $88, especially during sales. A 32-inch screen offers a bit more viewing real estate than a 24-inch, making it a slightly better fit for a small living room or larger bedroom. Like its smaller sibling, it’s 720p and features the user-friendly Roku TV interface.

Why these Onn TVs are a solid pick for under $100:

Smart Features: Built-in Roku TV is super convenient. It’s an intuitive platform with a ton of apps, making it easy for anyone to use.
Price Point: They consistently hit that under-$100 mark.
Availability: Often found at Walmart, which is widely accessible.

Things to keep in mind:

Resolution: Both are 720p. For screens this size, 720p is generally acceptable, but don’t expect crisp, detailed visuals.
Sound Quality: Like most budget TVs, the built-in speakers are usually basic and might sound a bit “tinny”. Consider pairing it with a cheap soundbar or external speakers if audio is important to you.
Ports: They’ll have a few HDMI ports usually 2-3 and a USB port, which is enough for a game console or a streaming stick if you prefer a different smart platform.

Insignia F20 Series on Sale

Insignia, a Best Buy house brand, also offers small smart TVs that occasionally drop below $100 during promotions. Where the US Dollar is Worth the Most in 2025

Insignia 24-inch F20 Series Smart HD TV: This one has been seen on sale for as low as $65 from $80. It’s an LED HD screen, often with Fire TV built-in, giving you access to Alexa and a wide range of streaming apps.
- Fire TV: If you’re already in the Amazon ecosystem, Fire TV is a great choice. You can use Alexa to control your TV and smart home devices.
- Picture Quality: It offers decent colors and clarity for its price, though, like the Onn, it’s typically 720p.

These small Insignia models are great for similar use cases as the Onn TVs – kitchens, dorms, or even as a simple display for security cameras or a basic media player.

The Smart Choice: Refurbished TVs Under $100

If you’re willing to consider a refurbished unit, your options for getting a larger screen or better features under $100 open up significantly. Refurbished electronics are items that have been returned, repaired if necessary, and then re-sold, often with a warranty.

Why Go Refurbished?

Better Value: You can often snag a TV that originally cost $200-$400 for less than $100. These might be 32-inch, 40-inch, or even larger models that are a year or two old.
Potential for Better Features: You might find a refurbished TV with 1080p resolution, more HDMI ports, or a more robust smart platform than a brand-new sub-$100 TV.
Warranties: Reputable refurbishers and retailers like Woot, Walmart, or Back Market often offer a 90-day or even one-year warranty on refurbished products, giving you some peace of mind.

Where to Look for Refurbished Deals

Woot.com an Amazon company: CNET mentioned Woot offering refurbished Amazon Fire TVs 43 to 55 inches starting at just $100. These were 4K displays with HDR10 support and the Fire TV interface, which is an incredible deal for the price. Keep an eye on Woot’s daily deals, as these specific offers are usually time-sensitive.
Walmart Refurbished: Walmart.com has a “Refurbished TVs” section. While the exact models under $100 will vary, it’s a good place to check for brands like Roku, Vizio, or even older Westinghouse models that have been restored.
Back Market: This platform specializes in refurbished electronics and offers a 1-year warranty on many items. Their inventory changes constantly, so regular checking is key.
Amazon Renewed: Amazon also has a “Renewed” program for refurbished products, often with a 90-day guarantee. Search for Refurbished TVs to see what’s available.

Important Tip: Always check the seller’s reputation and the warranty details when buying refurbished. Make sure it’s “seller refurbished” or “manufacturer refurbished” from a trusted source.

Best Soundbar Under 1000 Dollars: Your Ultimate Guide for Epic Home Audio

Navigating the Used Market for Under $100

The used market is a bit like the Wild West, but it’s where you might find some real gems if you’re patient and careful. You could potentially find a larger, slightly older TV for well under $100 here.

Where to Look for Used TVs

Local Classifieds Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist: These are great for finding local sellers. You can often negotiate prices, and you can usually inspect the TV in person before buying. Look for terms like “moving sale” or “garage sale.”
eBay: eBay has a vast selection of used TVs, from small portable units to larger, older models. Filter by “Buy It Now” and “Price + Shipping: Lowest first” to find the cheapest options. Be sure to check seller ratings and read descriptions carefully for any defects.
Local Pawn Shops/Thrift Stores: These places can sometimes have surprisingly good deals on older, functional TVs. However, they usually offer limited or no warranty.

What to Watch Out For When Buying Used

Test Everything: If possible, always test the TV before buying. Check all HDMI ports, the remote, sound, and look for dead pixels, backlight bleed, or screen damage.
Age and Technology: Older TVs might lack smart features, requiring a separate streaming stick like a Roku Express or Fire TV Stick Lite. They might also have lower resolutions 720p or even standard definition and fewer connectivity options.
No Warranty: Most private sellers offer no warranty, so you’re buying “as is.”
Transport: Make sure you have a way to safely transport the TV, especially if it’s a larger model.

Alternatives to a Traditional TV Under $100

Sometimes, a traditional TV might not be the best solution for your needs, especially with such a tight budget. Consider these alternatives:

Computer Monitors

If you primarily need a screen for a computer, a gaming console, or a streaming stick, a computer monitor can be a fantastic alternative.

Finding Your Perfect Sound: The Best Speakers Under $1000 (and ₹1000!)

Better Resolution/Refresh Rate for the Price: You can often find a 24-inch or 27-inch 1080p monitor for under $100 especially during sales or refurbished which often offers a sharper image than a 720p TV of similar size.
Inputs: Most monitors have at least one HDMI port, making them compatible with streaming sticks or gaming consoles.
No Tuner: The main drawback is that monitors don’t have a built-in TV tuner, so you can’t watch over-the-air broadcast channels without an external tuner.
No Smart Features/Speakers: Like TVs, many budget monitors lack built-in speakers and smart features, so you’d need external speakers and a streaming device.

Streaming Sticks + Existing Screens

If you already have an old computer monitor, a dusty TV with a broken smart platform, or even a projector, a streaming stick can bring it into the modern age for well under $100.

Roku Express 4K+: This debuted in 2021 but still offers great value, with 4K HDR support and Roku’s user-friendly interface for under $40. It’s super approachable, even for non-tech-savvy users.
Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite / Fire TV Stick 4K Max: The Lite version is very affordable, giving you access to the Fire TV platform. The 4K Max, while a bit more expensive sometimes around $50-$60 on sale, offers faster performance and Wi-Fi 6E support, and some even integrate with Xbox Game Pass.
Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device: Walmart’s Onn 4K Pro device, often around $50, offers premium features like a backlit remote, smart speaker functions, and Google TV, with support for 4K, HDR10, and Dolby Vision. This is a fantastic way to upgrade any screen into a smart TV.

These devices plug into an HDMI port and give you access to virtually all streaming services, essentially turning any screen into a smart TV.

What to Look For When Buying Any TV Under $100

Even with a limited budget, you should still keep a few key things in mind to ensure you get the best possible experience.

Screen Size

As we’ve discussed, for under $100 new, you’re usually looking at 24-inch to 32-inch screens.

24-inch: Ideal for very small spaces like a kitchen, bathroom, or a compact dorm room.
32-inch: Can work for a small bedroom or a secondary viewing area.

Anything larger will almost certainly push you into the refurbished or used market for this price. Good swiss watches under 1000

Resolution 720p vs. 1080p

720p HD: This is the most common resolution for new TVs under $100. While not as sharp as 1080p or 4K, for smaller screens under 32 inches, 720p is perfectly adequate for most content and doesn’t look overly pixelated from a normal viewing distance.
1080p Full HD: Finding a new 1080p TV under $100 is rare, but you might find it in the refurbished market or as a special deal for a 24-inch or 32-inch model. It offers a noticeably sharper image, especially for text and fine details.

Don’t expect 4K UHD at this price point for a new TV. Even budget TVs usually start around $150-$200 for 4K.

Smart TV Platform

Having a built-in smart TV platform is a huge convenience, especially on a budget, as it saves you from buying an extra streaming stick.

Roku TV: Known for its user-friendly interface, vast app selection, and simple remote. Many Onn and some TCL models use Roku TV.
Fire TV: Integrated with Amazon’s ecosystem and Alexa voice control. Often found on Insignia and Amazon-branded TVs.
Google TV less common for under $100 TVs: Offers a more personalized content discovery experience, but typically found on slightly higher-priced TVs or streaming sticks like the Onn 4K Pro.

If the TV doesn’t have smart features, make sure it has at least one HDMI port for an external streaming device.

Connectivity Ports

HDMI Ports: Look for at least 2 HDMI ports. One for a cable box/game console and another for a streaming stick or other device.
USB Port: Useful for playing media from a flash drive or powering some streaming sticks.
Antenna Coaxial Input: If you plan to watch over-the-air channels with an antenna.

Brand and Reliability

While “premium” brands won’t be in this price range, some budget brands have better reputations than others. Onn Walmart’s brand and Insignia Best Buy’s brand are generally considered reliable for their price point. However, understand that component quality will be basic, and longevity might not match more expensive TVs. Many user reviews for ultra-cheap TVs mention issues like screens going dark or audio failing after a year or two. It’s a trade-off for the low price. Big Speakers Under $1000: Your Ultimate Guide to Epic Sound on a Budget

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really possible to buy a new TV for under $100?

It’s very difficult, but not impossible. You’ll generally find very small new TVs around 24-32 inches from budget brands like Onn or Insignia, typically with 720p resolution and basic smart features, often during special sales or as store-brand offerings. For instance, Walmart often has Onn-brand Roku TVs in this price range.

What kind of picture quality can I expect from a TV under $100?

Expect basic HD 720p resolution. The picture will be adequate for casual viewing, but don’t anticipate vibrant colors, deep blacks, or sharp detail like you’d see on more expensive 1080p or 4K TVs. Contrast and black levels might be inconsistent.

Will a TV under $100 have smart features?

Surprisingly, many budget-friendly TVs in this price range, especially those from brands like Onn and Insignia, do come with built-in smart platforms like Roku TV or Fire TV. This is a huge bonus, giving you access to streaming apps without needing a separate device.

Are refurbished TVs a good option for under $100?

Yes, absolutely! Refurbished TVs often offer the best value for under $100, potentially providing larger screen sizes even up to 43-55 inches or better features like 4K resolution that you wouldn’t find new at this price. Just make sure to buy from a reputable seller that offers a warranty, like Woot, Walmart Refurbished, or Back Market.

What are the main trade-offs when buying a TV under $100?

The biggest trade-offs are usually screen size, resolution mostly 720p, limited advanced features no HDR, low refresh rates, and typically basic sound quality. The build quality might also be less durable, meaning a shorter lifespan compared to more expensive models. Best Swiss Watch Under 1000 USD

What size TV can I get for under $100?

For a new TV, you’re generally looking at 24-inch or 32-inch models. If you consider refurbished or used options, you might occasionally find larger sizes e.g., 40-55 inches, but these deals are usually fleeting.

Should I buy a TV under $100 for gaming?

A TV under $100 can work for casual gaming, especially for older consoles or less graphically demanding games. However, these TVs typically have lower refresh rates 60Hz and higher input lag, which isn’t ideal for competitive or gaming. For a better gaming experience on a budget, you might be better off with a dedicated gaming monitor and a cheap streaming stick, as many budget TVs lack advanced gaming features.

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for The Reality of
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

BestFREE.nl

The Reality of Finding a TV Under $100