Level Up Your Gaming: Best PS5 & Xbox Series X TVs Under £700

The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X have ushered in a new era of gaming, boasting stunning 4K visuals, lightning-fast frame rates, and immersive experiences. To truly appreciate what these consoles can do, a great TV is essential. But let's be honest, not everyone has an unlimited budget. That's why we've put together a guide to help you find the best gaming TVs under £700 that still deliver an incredible experience. And remember, with TrustPay, you can spread the cost with 0% APR store credit at Trusty Stores!

What to Look for in a Gaming TV for PS5 & Xbox Series X

Before we jump into specific recommendations, let's quickly touch on the key features that make a TV great for gaming, especially for these powerful consoles:

* 4K Resolution: Both consoles target 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) for crisp, detailed graphics. It's pretty much a given for any modern gaming TV.
* HDMI 2.1: This is the big one! HDMI 2.1 unlocks features like:
* 120Hz Refresh Rate at 4K: This means super smooth gameplay, especially in competitive titles. While not every game hits 120fps at 4K, having the capability is a huge plus.
* Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): VRR syncs the TV's refresh rate with the console's frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering for a much smoother visual experience. It's a game-changer!
* Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): This automatically switches your TV into its lowest latency (Game) mode when it detects a console, ensuring minimal input lag without you lifting a finger.
* Low Input Lag: This refers to the delay between your input (pressing a button on your controller) and that action appearing on screen. Lower is always better for gaming, especially in fast-paced titles.
* HDR (High Dynamic Range): HDR provides brighter highlights, deeper blacks, and a wider range of colours, making games look much more vibrant and realistic.
* Panel Type (LED vs. OLED): While OLED offers superior contrast and perfect blacks, it's generally out of our sub-£700 budget. You'll mostly be looking at LED TVs, which still offer fantastic picture quality.

Now, let's explore some top picks that typically fall within our budget, keeping in mind prices can fluctuate.

Top Gaming TV Picks Under £700 (General Guidelines)

It's important to note that specific models and pricing can change, but these brands and series often offer excellent value and gaming features in this price bracket. You might need to look for sale events or slightly older models that still pack a punch.

* Samsung AU/BU Series (e.g., AU8000, BU8000, BU8500):
* Why they're great: Samsung's entry-to-mid-range Crystal UHD TVs often hit the sweet spot for budget gamers. They typically offer good 4K picture quality, very low input lag, and ALLM. While they often *don't* have full HDMI 2.1 (meaning no 4K@120Hz), some models might offer VRR support through specific ports or firmware updates. If 120Hz isn't your absolute top priority, these are solid choices for their excellent picture and responsiveness at 60Hz.
* What to look for: A 50-inch or 55-inch model often falls into this price range.

* LG UQ/UP Series (e.g., UQ7500, UQ8100):
* Why they're great: LG is another strong contender. Their UQ and UP series TVs provide vibrant 4K displays, often with good viewing angles. Similar to Samsung, many models in this price range will offer low input lag and ALLM. You might find some with basic VRR support, but full 4K@120Hz HDMI 2.1 ports are less common at this price point. They're fantastic for cinematic, single-player games where immersion is key.
* What to look for: Keep an eye out for 50-inch to 55-inch sizes.

* Hisense U/A Series (e.g., U7H, A7H, A6BG):
* Why they're great: Hisense has been making serious waves with their budget-friendly TVs that pack high-end features. You're more likely to find true HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K@120Hz and VRR on certain Hisense models within the sub-£700 bracket, especially on their ULED (U Series) sets. This makes them incredibly appealing for hardcore gamers who want all the bells and whistles for their PS5 or Xbox Series X.
* What to look for: The U7H series, if you can find it on sale, is a fantastic option. Also check the A7H or A6BG for value.

* TCL C Series (e.g., C635, C735):
* Why they're great: TCL is another brand that delivers impressive features for the price. Their C Series (often QLED) TVs offer excellent colour reproduction and brightness. Like Hisense, some TCL models, particularly the C735, have been known to include HDMI 2.1 features like 4K@120Hz and VRR, making them exceptional value propositions for gaming.
* What to look for: The C735 series is particularly noteworthy for its gaming features within this budget.

Pro Tips for Buying Your Gaming TV

* Check Spec Sheets Carefully: Always, always double-check the TV's official specifications before buying. Retailer websites can sometimes be vague. Look for `HDMI 2.1`, `VRR`, `ALLM`, and the input lag (often measured in milliseconds).
* Read Reviews: Look for reviews from reputable tech sites that specifically test gaming performance.
* Consider Size: While bigger is often better for gaming, make sure it fits your space and viewing distance. A 55-inch TV with great features might be a better buy than a 65-inch TV with fewer gaming perks at the same price.
* Sales are Your Friend: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales (Black Friday, Boxing Day, Prime Day, etc.) where you can often snag a higher-spec model for less than £700.

Making It Affordable with TrustPay

Finding the perfect gaming TV is exciting, and we believe everyone should have access to the tech they want. That's where TrustPay comes in! At Trusty Stores, you can use our 0% APR, no-credit-check store credit facility to spread the cost of your new gaming TV. Whether you're eyeing a Samsung, LG, Hisense, or TCL, you can get up to £1,200 credit and pay it back in manageable chunks without any interest whatsoever. It's a fantastic way to upgrade your setup without a hefty upfront payment.

Frequently asked questions

Is 120Hz necessary for PS5/Xbox Series X gaming?

While not *strictly* necessary for every game, 120Hz offers a noticeably smoother experience in titles that support it. Many single-player, cinematic games run at 30fps or 60fps, but competitive games like Call of Duty or Fortnite can benefit greatly from 120fps. If your budget allows for a TV with 120Hz, it's a great future-proofing feature, but a good 60Hz TV with low input lag is still excellent.

What is input lag and why is it important for gaming?

Input lag is the delay between when you press a button on your controller and when you see that action happen on screen. For gaming, especially fast-paced or competitive genres, lower input lag is crucial. A TV with high input lag can make games feel sluggish and unresponsive. Always aim for a TV with input lag under 20ms, and ideally under 10ms in its dedicated 'Game Mode'.

Can I get good HDR at this price point?

Yes, you can get *good* HDR at this price point, but it won't be the same as the premium HDR found on much more expensive OLED or Mini-LED TVs. You'll still get a noticeable boost in contrast and colour vibrancy compared to SDR (Standard Dynamic Range), making games look more vivid. Look for TVs that support HDR10 and HLG formats, which are standard for consoles.

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There you have it! Upgrading your gaming setup for your PS5 or Xbox Series X doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of research and knowing what features to prioritise, you can find an amazing gaming TV under £700 that will elevate your next-gen experience. Remember, even if a TV doesn't have every single HDMI 2.1 feature, a great 4K picture, low input lag, and ALLM will still provide an excellent gaming experience.

Shop with Trusty Stores today and discover how easy it is to get your perfect gaming TV with TrustPay's 0% APR credit.