Ever wonder why one TV is $200 and another that’s the same size is over $2,000?
It’s not just marketing hype - several key factors contribute to the massive range in TV prices. Whether you're shopping for your next new TV or just curious about what's under the hood, this TVpartsToday guide will explain what really drives the cost of a TV.
1. Screen Technology
Not all displays are created equal. The type of screen tech makes a huge difference in both performance and price:
LED: Most affordable; great for basic viewing.
QLED: Offers brighter images and richer colors (popular in Samsung and TCL models).
OLED: Delivers deep blacks, perfect contrast, and vibrant colors - but costs more.
Mini-LED / MicroLED: Cutting-edge backlighting tech offering better contrast and brightness, often found in premium models.
TVpartsToday Tip: While OLED looks stunning, it's also more fragile and prone to burn-in. If you're worried about longevity or future repair costs, an LED model is often a smarter (and cheaper) bet.
2. Resolution
Resolution plays a big role in price and picture clarity:
720p / 1080p: Older HD formats, still fine for small screens or casual use.
4K: Now standard for most new TVs - offers excellent detail at a fair price.
8K: Ultra-high definition, but expensive and not widely supported (yet).
TVpartsToday Tip: Unless you’re sitting very close or using a massive screen, you likely won’t benefit much from 8K - stick with 4K for the best value.
3. Size
Naturally, bigger TVs tend to cost more - but size isn’t everything.
A 55” OLED will still cost more than a 65” LED, because it’s all about the panel technology and feature set. Don’t judge value by inches alone!
4. Smart Features
Premium TVs often pack in better software and hardware:
- Faster processors = smoother menus
- More memory = better multitasking and longer app support
- Advanced operating systems (like Google TV, webOS, Tizen, etc.)
Budget TVs may lag behind in updates or lack advanced settings altogether.
5. Audio and Connectivity
Don’t overlook ports and sound quality!
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Low-cost models may have:
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Fewer HDMI ports
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No HDMI ARC/eARC
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Basic or tinny speakers
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Premium sets feature:
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Dolby Atmos or advanced audio decoding
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HDMI 2.1 (great for next-gen gaming)
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Optical out / eARC for easy soundbar integration
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If you're building a home theater, these upgrades are worth every penny!
6. Brand & Build Quality
Brand reputation can influence price - but also support, durability, and features:
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Premium brands (Samsung, Sony, LG) charge more for:
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Higher-quality parts
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Better build materials
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Responsive customer support
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Value brands (TCL, Hisense, Sceptre) are great for budget-conscious buyers, though they may cut corners in some areas.
7. Special Features and Extras
High prices may reflect advanced features like:
- High refresh rates (120Hz+ for smoother motion in games or sports)
- Anti-glare coatings for sunny rooms
- Voice control (Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.)
- Ultra-thin bezels or stylish frames
TVpartsToday Tip: These extras are nice, but ask yourself if they’ll actually improve your experience. Paying more for something you won’t use? Not worth it.
Final Thoughts: Pick What Fits Your Life & Budget
Not every viewer needs an OLED panel or 8K resolution. If you're streaming Netflix, watching cable, or gaming casually, a well-reviewed LED TV with 4K resolution may be all you need - and it’ll cost a lot less.
And remember: TVpartsToday is here to help if your TV needs a part replaced, whether it's a budget model or a luxury OLED. Just make sure to match the part number, not just the board number, to ensure the perfect fit every time!
Need Help?
If you’re still unsure about the issue or need to replace a part, reach out to TVpartsToday. We can help you identify the exact cause of the problem and provide the right replacement part!
Would you rather watch a video? Check out our helpful Troubleshooting 101 playlist over on YouTube!
Would you rather chat with a seasoned repair expert? Head on over to our TVRepairHelp subReddit!
Need help finding the right board or part?
Call us at 930-212-1975 or browse our inventory online.
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