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If you want a low-cost TV with Google’s smart-TV experience, start by comparing the exact model, screen size, refresh rate, and local price—not by relying on a retailer’s broad “Android TV” label. The TCL Q Class 50Q651G is one model to investigate: TCL describes it as a 50-inch 4K QLED Google TV, but the available information does not establish it as the cheapest option or a universal winner. Prices and availability depend on your market.
Android TV or Google TV: check the platform on the exact model
“Android TV” and “Google TV” are related but distinct platform names. Google TV is an interface used on smart TVs from multiple manufacturers, while some models still use the Android TV name. Retailer categories may group them together, so verify the operating platform on the manufacturer’s page for the precise model, size, and region before buying. Tom’s Guide’s overview of Google TV models also illustrates that the interface appears across manufacturers.
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Smart-TV features require an internet connection, a Google Account, and power; some streaming services require separate subscriptions. Google’s Google TV overview
A value-oriented model to compare: TCL Q Class 50Q651G
TCL identifies the Q Class 50Q651G as a 50-inch 4K UHD QLED television with Google TV. The product family page describes quantum-dot color and HDR format support. This makes it a concrete search candidate for a budget Google TV, not a verified lowest-price pick: the available sources do not establish a current sale price, stock, or a global price ranking. Check the listing in your country for the exact model suffix and current total cost. TCL Q651G product page
#1 Best Overall
- 1080p Resolution - Watch movies and TV shows in high-definition picture quality.
- LED-backlit LCD screen - With reliable and long-lasting LED lighting, this LCD screen delivers a wide range of colors and contrast for a memorable viewing experience.
- Watch what you want - Stream over 1.5 million movies and TV episodes. Watch favorites with subscriptions to Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. Subscription fees may apply.
- All your entertainment in one place - Watch live and free TV, play video games, and stream music.
- Smart and always getting smarter - Fire TV adds new Alexa skills, features, smart home capabilities, and voice functionality all the time.
Be careful when comparing specifications across screen sizes. TCL’s opened specification entry for the 43-inch version lists a 60 Hz refresh rate; that figure should not automatically be applied to the 50-inch model or every size in the family. Use the specification table for the exact size you intend to buy.
How to compare affordable Android and Google TVs
Before choosing a set, compare the factors that affect everyday use as well as the sticker price:
Rank #2
- 720p resolution - View your favorite movies, shows and games in high definition.
- Alexa voice control - The Alexa Voice Remote lets you easily control your entertainment, search across apps, switch inputs, and more using just your voice. Press and hold the voice button and ask Alexa to easily find, launch, and control content, and even switch to cable.
- Access thousands of shows with Fire TV - Watch over 1.5 million streaming movies and TV episodes with access to thousands of channels, apps and Alexa skills, including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube, Apple TV+, Disney+, ESPN+, Sling TV, Paramount+, and other services right from this TV.*
- DTS Virtual-X Sound - An immersive sound format creates a three-dimensional sound experience with your TV’s speakers.
- Supports HDMI ARC - Sends audio directly from the HDMI jack to a compatible soundbar or AV receiver, removing the need for an extra cable.
- Total cost and size: Compare the current local price for the size you need, including delivery or other charges shown by the retailer. Prices and availability change, and buying-guide lists are snapshots rather than permanent rankings.
- Native refresh rate: Look for the panel’s stated refresh rate in the exact model’s specification table. Do not treat a brand’s motion-rate marketing number as the native panel refresh rate.
- Room brightness and contrast: Consider whether the screen will be used in a bright room or mostly in controlled lighting. Budget sets involve tradeoffs, so do not infer picture performance from a platform name or a QLED label alone.
- HDR and connections: Check which HDR formats and HDMI inputs the specific model supports, especially if you use a console, sound system, or other devices.
- Gaming features: If gaming matters, verify the listed refresh rate and relevant gaming support on the exact size and regional model rather than assuming all sizes share the same capabilities.
- Built-in software versus an add-on: If the display is good enough and has HDMI, compare the cost and convenience of adding a streaming device instead of replacing the television.
Buying guides can help surface candidates, but their recommendations reflect editorial judgments and a particular market at a particular time. Android Central includes TCL S Class among value options; use it as a family to investigate, then confirm the model year, size, regional suffix, platform, and current listing. Android Central’s Android TV roundup Tom’s Guide’s under-$500 guide is a U.S.-oriented snapshot of budget tradeoffs, not a guarantee that a model fits that price in your location. Tom’s Guide’s under-$500 TV guide
When an HDMI streaming device is the more affordable choice
If your current television still suits your needs and has HDMI, an external device may add Google TV without replacing the screen. Google lists Chromecast with Google TV (4K) as supporting output up to 4K Ultra HD at 60 frames per second, with an HDMI connection. For 4K HDR viewing, Google specifies that you need a 4K television, 4K content, and a high-speed internet connection. Confirm the device’s current availability and compatibility before buying; the specifications page does not establish current retail stock or price. Google’s Chromecast and Google TV Streamer specifications
Rank #3
- EXPANDED CONTRAST FOR ENHANCED VISUAL DETAIL: Get expanded contrast between the lightest and darkest parts of a scene for a wide spectrum of colors, enhanced detail and depth.
- MOTION-BASED SOUND: Feel like you're in the middle of the action with sound that follows objects on screen. Featuring a virtual top channel, every sound is precisely placed in space, placing you in the heart of the scene.
- SECURES PERSONAL DATA** WITH TRIPLE-LAYER PROTECTION: Your TV experiences are secured. Samsung Knox Security defends against harmful apps and phishing sites while keeping sensitive data, such as PINs and passwords, secure. It also safeguards your IoT devices connected to your TV.
- YOUR TV SCREEN, TAILORED TO YOU: Stream your favorite movies and shows and access your favorite apps and games on an intuitive smart TV platform* , with personal data secured by Samsung Knox.** Plus get 7 years of automatic OS updates.***
- A WORLD OF CONTENT AT YOUR FINGERTIPS. NO SUBSCRIPTION REQUIRED: Watch 2,700+ free channels including 400+ Samsung TV Plus premium channels and on free streaming apps. Enjoy national and local news, sports, movies and more. Explore new content being added regularly.
This route makes sense only if the TV’s picture and connections are still acceptable. You will also need network access and may need subscriptions for particular streaming services.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
