Top picks for 4K and HDR TVs under CAD 1000: Unbeatable quality on a budget

Affordable TVs in Canada: Exceptional quality across various screen sizes

QLED TV: Amazon Omni QLED (QL65F601U)
last updated Mar 17, 2024

Imagine transforming your living room into a cinema paradise without breaking the bank. Excitingly, that dream is within reach with some fantastic TVs available for less than £1000. You don't have to sacrifice quality for affordability; these gems pack a punch with 4K resolution and HDR support, ensuring your viewing experience is nothing short of spectacular.

Believe it or not, your budget could stretch to a super-cinematic 65-inch screen, bringing movies, sports, and your favorite TV shows to life like never before. But it's not all about size. The key is finding a TV that not only looks good on paper but delivers an exceptional all-round picture quality that stays true to the creator's vision. Add to this an intuitive, app-filled operating system and robust gaming performance for a complete entertainment package.

While TV audio generally leaves room for improvement, selecting a model that offers clear and immersive sound can significantly enhance your viewing experience. For an even richer audio landscape, pairing your TV with a soundbar is a move well worth considering.

After careful evaluation, here are the standout TVs under £1000 that make the cut, promising exceptional value and a thrilling viewing experience that won't disappoint.

1. TCL 55C845K

Unlock unparalleled entertainment value: your guide to this year's most cost-effective and high-quality TV options in Canada

TCL 65C845K 4K television
(Image credit: Future / David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet, Netflix)
specification
  • Screen size: 55 inches (also available in 65in, 75in and 85in)
  • Type: QLED
  • Backlight: Mini LED
  • Resolution : 4K
  • HDR formats: HLG, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
  • Operating system: Google TV
  • HDMI inputs: 4 (2 x 48Gbps HDMI 2.1)
  • Gaming features: 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, Dolby Vision game mode
  • ARC/eARC: eARC
  • Optical output? : Yes
  • Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 72 x 123 x 7.2cm
reasons to buy
  • + Vibrant, vivid displays
  • + Ultimate gaming experience
  • + Unbeatable value
reasons to avoid
  • - Set-up needs precision
  • - Slight image clouding
  • - Intermittent subwoofer noise

2023 brought an unexpected gem to the forefront of television technology with the TCL C845K, standing out as the only TV equipped with Mini LED technology on our celebrated list. This achievement alone underscores our high regard for this impressive model.

As TCL's premiere offering in the UK and Australia, with a suggested alternative for US audiences (find it here), it boasts advanced screen technology, a comprehensive feature set, and exceptional picture quality. The 65-inch variant we examined showcases an innovative Mini LED backlight, divided into 576 dimming zones, and augmented by Quantum Dots to enhance color vibrancy.

With an astonishing peak brightness of 2000 nits, the TCL set establishes itself as a standout performer. Beyond the impressive technical specifications, its affordability and stellar image quality earmark it as a favorite among modern TVs.

In practical terms, the C845K presents a captivating viewing experience, with images that are vivid, contrast-rich, and dynamically lively. The meticulous control over brightness, facilitated by the extensive dimming zones, allows the TV to display deep intensity levels without unwanted dimming artifacts - a common issue in more expensive counterparts.

While a minor clouding effect in high-contrast situations was noted, the TCL model compensates with exceptional black levels and a color presentation that strikes a perfect balance between vibrancy and naturalness.

The TCL C845K doesn’t just excel in displaying images; its audio performance is also noteworthy. Contrary to the underwhelming sound output of many high-end TVs, this model proves that superior built-in sound systems are still within reach, offering clear, loud, and well-placed audio, complemented by a robust bass response.

Aside from its visual and audio prowess, the TCL C845K is also armed with impressive gaming specs (4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM) and top-tier HDR format support (Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG) that synergize to elevate your viewing and gaming experience. This TCL TV delivers value and performance far beyond its price point, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment system.

2. Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED QL50F601

Unlock exceptional value: Our comprehensive guide helps Canadians find affordable TVs with unmatched versatility

50-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED displayed on a white table, showing a scene from the animated TV show Invincible.
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi? / Amazon Prime Video, Invincible)
specification
  • Screen size: 50 inches (also available in 43in, 55in, 65in, 75in)
  • Type: QLED
  • Backlight: Full-Array LED
  • Resolution : 4K
  • HDR formats: HLG, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
  • Operating system: Fire OS
  • HDMI inputs: 4
  • Gaming features: VRR, ALLM, Dolby Vision game mode
  • ARC/eARC: eARC
  • Optical output? : Yes
  • Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 66 x 112 x 8.4cm
reasons to buy
  • + Stunning, uniform visuals
  • + Simple, feature-rich interface
  • + Great for gaming
reasons to avoid
  • - Blurrier action scenes
  • - Not as bright

Imagine diving into your favorite TV series or the latest blockbuster on a screen that doesn't just show you the picture but brings it to life. That's what the 50-inch Omni QLED TV offers. With its sophisticated performance and generous feature set, it's a gem waiting to be discovered. While it's priced at £650, savvy shoppers will be thrilled to hear that this TV often sees significant discounts, sometimes as low as £400, making it an absolute steal.

The Omni QLED stands out thanks to its QLED panel enhanced with full-array local dimming, ensuring deep blacks and vibrant colors. Its versatility is boosted by support for all current HDR formats and gaming features like VRR, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming. Not to mention, it's powered by the user-friendly Fire OS, which comes with a plethora of apps and can be fully operated with Alexa. This TV doesn't just aim to impress; it excels within its capabilities, providing a viewing experience that's aligned with the creator's vision – natural, immersive, and genuinely captivating.

When it comes to audio, the Omni QLED opts for simplicity and clarity with its straightforward stereo setup. Perfect for daily viewing, and when the occasion calls for it, pairing with a soundbar elevates the cinematic experience. This TV proves that excellent performance doesn't need to break the bank, making it a worthy centerpiece of any living room.

3. Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED QL65F601U

Discover stunning clarity and vibrant colours with the Omni QLED – your cost-effective gateway to a genuine visual feast, designed to guide you towards making an informed decision.

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED displayed on a wooden stand, showcasing an image from The Grand Tour
(Image: © What Hi-Fi? / The Grand Tour on Prime Video 2)
specification
  • Screen size: 65-inches (also available in 43, 50, 55, 75)
  • Type: QLED
  • Resolution: 4K
  • HDR formats: HLG, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
  • Operating system: Fire OS
  • HDMI inputs : x4
  • HDMI 2.1: No
  • Gaming features: VRR, ALLM, Dolby Vision game mode
  • ARC/eARC: eARC
  • Optical output?: Yes
  • Dimensions (hwd without stand): 85 x 145 x 8.7cm (33" x 57" x 3.2”)
reasons to buy
  • + Stunning visuals every time
  • + Great value for your investment
  • + Crystal-clear audio
reasons to avoid
  • - Less detail in dark areas
  • - Motion can blur

Exploring the vibrant world of budget-friendly TVs just got more exciting with the 65-inch Amazon Omni QLED. Despite its more modest price tag, this TV packs a punch, delivering much more than what you might initially expect.

Amazon has positioned this as their flagship budget option, and it’s clear why. The Omni QLED stands out with its performance and feature set, making a strong case for being a top pick for budget-conscious shoppers looking for quality.

The picture quality defies expectations for its price range. Vivid colors burst into life, creating a dynamic viewing experience. Meanwhile, the balance between strong and subtle hues ensures a natural and engaging picture, keeping viewers immersed in their favorite shows and movies.

Instead of relying heavily on post-processing to enhance scenes, which can often detract from the overall experience, the Omni QLED opts for a more balanced and consistent approach to contrast. This method ensures a more enjoyable and engaging viewing, especially during movie marathons.

Detail and sharpness are handled with care, avoiding exaggeration and presenting a solid, lifelike image. While it may not set new records for brightness or detail in darker scenes, the performance is commendable, particularly at this price point.

Motion is handled smoothly, steering clear of common pitfalls like the soap opera effect, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience. The TV’s simplicity extends to its sound quality as well. Avoiding overly ambitious audio processing, it focuses on delivering clear and direct sound, which is an intelligent decision given its constraints.

Feature-wise, the Omni QLED doesn’t skimp. With a 4K QLED display, Amazon’s user-friendly Fire OS, and Alexa integration for voice control, it’s well-equipped for modern viewers. Additionally, it supports VRR and ALLM, offering a bit more for gamers, though 4K 120Hz isn’t available.

In summary, the Amazon Omni QLED emerges as an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality picture and sound without breaking the bank. Its blend of solid performance and impressive features make it a compelling option for budget-friendly buyers in the US.

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