Best TV Under 700 for Movies: Essential Bluetooth

Finding the best TV under $700 for movies with essential Bluetooth means looking for models that offer excellent picture quality, good sound connectivity via Bluetooth, and smart features within your budget. We’ll guide you through key features to prioritize for an immersive cinematic experience without breaking the bank.

Hey everyone, Bob E Riley here from Aimguider! Are you dreaming of movie nights with fantastic sound and picture, but your budget is holding you back? It’s a common struggle to find a TV that ticks all the boxes, especially when you want that seamless Bluetooth connection for your favorite soundbars or headphones. You want that big-screen feel without paying a fortune, and connecting your audio gear shouldn’t be a headache. Don’t worry, we’re going to break down exactly what to look for to snag the best TV under $700 that’s perfect for movie lovers and makes Bluetooth a breeze.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the must-have features, explain why they matter for movies, and highlight some top contenders that give you amazing value. Get ready to upgrade your home theater because a great movie experience is closer than you think!

Why Bluetooth Matters for Your Movie Experience

When you’re settling in for a cinematic adventure, you want your audio to be as immersive as the visuals. This is where Bluetooth technology on your TV becomes a game-changer, especially for those looking for the best TV under $700 for movies with essential Bluetooth. It removes the clutter of wires, offering a convenient way to connect wireless headphones for private viewing or a soundbar for richer, room-filling audio. Imagine enjoying that explosive action sequence or the subtle nuances of dialogue from your favorite film without being tethered by cables. It truly elevates the entire viewing experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable.

Bluetooth connectivity on a TV is not just a perk; it’s becoming an essential feature for modern home entertainment setups. It allows for easy integration with a wide range of peripherals, from premium wireless headphones for late-night sessions to sophisticated sound systems that can transform your living room into a mini-cinema. For movie buffs, the ability to effortlessly connect these devices without fuss is paramount. It’s all about convenience and enhancing that immersive feeling that makes watching movies so special. We’ll explore how to find the best TV under $700 that prioritizes this crucial feature.

Key Features to Look For in a TV Under $700 for Movies

When you’re on the hunt for the best TV under $700 for movies, focusing on the right features will ensure you get the most bang for your buck. It’s not just about the screen size; picture quality, sound options (including that all-important Bluetooth), and smart capabilities play a huge role in transforming your viewing experience. Let’s dive into what really matters.

Picture Quality: The Heart of the Movie Experience

For movie lovers, stunning visuals are non-negotiable. You want to see every detail, from the darkest shadows to the brightest highlights. Here’s what to prioritize:

• Resolution (4K UHD): Aim for a 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) resolution. With four times the pixels of Full HD (1080p), 4K offers incredibly sharp and detailed images, making your movies pop with lifelike clarity. This is the standard for a great movie experience today.
• HDR (High Dynamic Range): Look for HDR support, such as HDR10 or Dolby Vision. HDR expands the range between the darkest blacks and brightest whites, providing more vibrant colors and greater contrast. This means more realistic images with deeper blacks and stunningly bright highlights, bringing a dramatic depth to your favorite films.
• Panel Type (LED/QLED): While OLED TVs are usually out of this price range, modern LED and QLED TVs offer excellent performance. QLED technology, found in many Samsung TVs and some other brands, uses quantum dots to enhance color and brightness, often delivering a superior picture compared to standard LED panels at this price point.
• Refresh Rate: For smoother motion during fast-paced scenes (think action movies or sports), a higher refresh rate is better. Look for 60Hz native refresh rates, with some TVs offering motion enhancement technologies that can make fast movements appear more fluid. While 120Hz is ideal for gaming and very high-end TVs, 60Hz is perfectly adequate for most movie watching.

Bluetooth Connectivity: Seamless Audio Integration

This is a core requirement for finding the best TV under $700 for movies with essential Bluetooth. Here’s why and what to check:

• Wireless Audio Streaming: The primary benefit is connecting wireless Bluetooth headphones for undisturbed viewing or Bluetooth soundbars for enhanced audio. This eliminates cable clutter and offers flexibility in your setup.
• Convenience: Pairing a device is typically as simple as selecting it from the TV’s settings menu. No more fumbling with audio cables behind your TV.
• Multipoint Pairing: Some TVs allow you to connect multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously, though this is less common in budget models. What’s more important here is a stable connection to one primary audio device.
• Bluetooth Version: While not always advertised prominently, newer Bluetooth versions (like 5.0 or higher) offer more stable connections, better range, and lower latency, reducing any noticeable lag between the video and audio.

Smart TV Features: Convenience and Content

A good smart TV platform provides easy access to your favorite streaming services and apps. For movie lovers, this means quick access to Netflix, Max, Disney+, Prime Video, and more.

• App Availability: Ensure the TV’s operating system (e.g., Google TV, Roku TV, Fire TV) supports all the streaming apps you frequently use.
• User Interface: A clean and intuitive interface makes navigating menus and finding content effortless.
• Voice Control: Many smart TVs come with built-in voice assistants (like Google Assistant or Alexa) that allow you to search for movies, change channels, or control playback using your voice.

Sound Quality (Built-in and Connectivity)

While Bluetooth is key for external audio, the TV’s built-in speakers also matter for casual viewing.

• Power Output: Look for wattage specifications if available; higher wattage generally means louder and clearer sound from the TV’s speakers.
• Audio Technologies: Some TVs boast technologies like Dolby Audio to improve the sound from their internal speakers, although external sound systems are always recommended for a true cinematic experience.
• Audio Ports: Beyond Bluetooth, ensure it has an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port. This allows a soundbar to send audio back to the TV, often offering higher fidelity than optical or analog connections.

Top TV Models & Brands to Consider Under $700 with Bluetooth

Navigating the market for the best TV under $700 for movies with essential Bluetooth can be a treasure hunt. Several brands consistently offer great value in this price bracket, balancing picture quality, smart features, and that crucial Bluetooth connectivity. While specific models can change rapidly with sales and new releases, these brands and series are generally reliable bets.

TCL: The Budget King

TCL has made a name for itself by offering impressive features at very competitive prices. Many of their models, especially in the 5-Series and 6-Series, provide excellent picture quality, often including QLED technology and good HDR support, all while featuring robust smart TV platforms and Bluetooth.

• TCL 5-Series (S5xx) and 6-Series (R6xx): These series frequently hit the sweet spot for price and performance. Look for models that explicitly list Bluetooth connectivity. They often run on Google TV or Roku TV, both excellent smart platforms. They usually support Dolby Vision and HDR10+, making them great for movie enthusiasts.
• Pros: Excellent value for money, often includes QLED technology, great smart TV options (Roku or Google TV), good HDR performance.
• Cons: Motion handling can sometimes be a step behind premium brands, brightness levels might not match more expensive options in very bright rooms.

Hisense: A Strong Contender

Hisense is another brand that excels in delivering feature-rich TVs at affordable prices. They often provide impressive display technology and user-friendly smart interfaces, frequently including Bluetooth.

• Hisense U6 Series (e.g., U6K): This series typically offers QLED panels, Mini-LED backlighting (in some larger sizes or higher sub-series), and Dolby Vision support. Hisense TVs often come with Google TV or the brand’s own VIDAA smart platform, and Bluetooth is a standard feature on most of their recent models.
• Pros: Competitive pricing, strong picture quality for the price point (including good contrast and brightness), frequent inclusion of advanced features like Dolby Vision.
• Cons: User interface can be less intuitive than competitors for some users, longevity can sometimes be a concern compared to top-tier brands.

Vizio: Focused on Value

Vizio TVs are known for offering a solid viewing experience without breaking the bank, and they usually include Bluetooth connectivity.

• Vizio M-Series Quantum: This line often provides Quantum Dot technology for enhanced color and decent HDR performance. Vizio’s SmartCast platform offers access to popular streaming apps. Bluetooth is typically integrated, allowing for easy connection to wireless audio devices.
• Pros: Good color reproduction, competitive pricing, decent smart TV platform.
• Cons: App selection on SmartCast can sometimes be more limited than Roku or Google TV, software updates can be inconsistent.

Samsung (Entry Level): Reliable Choice, Check Specs

While Samsung’s higher-end models are pricey, their entry-level LED TVs can sometimes fall under $700, especially during sales. You’ll need to be diligent in checking the exact model specifications for Bluetooth.

• Samsung Crystal UHD Series (e.g., CU7000, CU8000): These are typically standard LED TVs offering good upscaling and a reliable smart platform in Samsung’s Tizen OS. Bluetooth is usually included for audio streaming. While they might lack QLED or advanced HDR, they provide a solid, dependable viewing experience.
• Pros: Reputable brand, user-friendly Tizen OS, generally good build quality, stable performance.
• Cons: Picture quality and HDR capabilities are more basic compared to QLED models in the same price range from other brands, often lack advanced gaming features.

LG (Entry Level): Similar to Samsung

Similar to Samsung, LG’s entry-level LED TVs can sometimes dip below the $700 mark. Their webOS smart platform is well-regarded.

• LG UQ Series (e.g., UQ75, UQ80): These are LED TVs that offer LG’s intuitive webOS. Bluetooth is generally included. They are a good option for reliable performance and a smooth user experience, though picture processing might be less advanced than their premium counterparts.
• Pros: Excellent webOS smart platform, good color accuracy for an LED, reliable performance.
• Cons: Picture contrast and black levels may not be as deep as some competitors, HDR performance is basic.

How to Check for Bluetooth on a TV

Ensuring your potential TV has the Bluetooth capabilities you need is straightforward, but it requires a keen eye. Here’s how to be sure you’re getting exactly what you need for the best TV under $700 for movies with essential Bluetooth.

1. Read the Product Specifications:

• Online Retailers: When browsing websites like Amazon, Best Buy, or the manufacturer’s official site, look for a “Specifications” or “Tech Details” section. Scroll down until you find “Connectivity,” “Wireless,” or a dedicated “Bluetooth” entry. It should clearly state “Yes,” “Included,” or a version number (e.g., Bluetooth 5.0).
• Manufacturer Websites: This is the most reliable source. Navigate to the specific TV model on the brand’s website and meticulously review the full spec sheet.

2. Examine the Box and Manual:

• Packaging: Major features are often highlighted on the TV’s box. Look for a Bluetooth logo or text mentioning wireless connectivity.
• User Manual: If you have the TV in hand or are checking online, the user manual will detail all supported features, including Bluetooth setup instructions if it’s present.

3. Look for Wireless Audio Settings in the TV Menu:

• Smart TV Interface: Once the TV is set up, navigate through its settings menu. Look for sections labeled “Sound,” “Audio,” “Network,” “Connections,” or “Wireless.” You should find an option to search for and pair Bluetooth devices. If this option is present, the TV has Bluetooth.

Important Note: Some TVs might have Bluetooth for things like remote control connectivity but not for audio streaming. Always verify that the Bluetooth spec explicitly mentions audio output or device connection for soundbars/headphones.

Setting Up Bluetooth Audio on Your New TV

Once you’ve found the perfect TV with Bluetooth, connecting your audio devices is usually a breeze. This process makes it simple to enjoy that best TV under $700 for movies with essential Bluetooth.

Here’s a general step-by-step guide. The exact wording might vary slightly depending on your TV’s operating system (like Google TV, Roku TV, Tizen, webOS, etc.), but the core process is consistent.

Step 1: Put Your Bluetooth Device in Pairing Mode

This is crucial. Your Bluetooth headphones, speaker, or soundbar needs to be discoverable by the TV. How you do this varies by device; often, it involves pressing and holding a Bluetooth button until an indicator light flashes (usually blue or white). Consult your audio device’s manual if you’re unsure. Make sure the device is relatively close to the TV for a strong initial connection.

Step 2: Access Your TV’s Bluetooth Settings

Turn on your TV and grab the remote. Navigate to the TV’s main settings menu. You’ll typically find this by pressing a gear icon or a “Settings” button on your remote. Look for options like:

• Sound or Audio
• Connections or Network & Accessories
• Bluetooth or Device Connection

Step 3: Scan for Devices

Within the Bluetooth settings menu, there should be an option to “Scan,” “Search for Devices,” or “Add Device.” Select this. Your TV will now search the vicinity for available Bluetooth devices that are in pairing mode.

Step 4: Select and Pair Your Device

Your Bluetooth audio device should appear in the list of available devices on your TV screen. Use your remote to select your device’s name from the list. The TV will then attempt to pair with it. You might see a confirmation message or be asked to confirm a passcode (though this is rare for audio devices).

Step 5: Confirm Audio Output

Once paired successfully, your TV should automatically direct audio through the connected Bluetooth device. You might need to go back into the “Sound” or “Audio Output” settings menu to ensure your Bluetooth device is selected as the output. Press play on a movie or TV show to test it out. If you experience any lag, check your TV’s settings for a “Bluetooth Delay” or “Audio Sync” adjustment, common on many smart TVs.

Troubleshooting Tip: If your device doesn’t appear, turn it off and on again, put it back into pairing mode, and rescan on the TV. Ensure no other device is currently connected to your Bluetooth headphones or speaker.

Comparing Key Specifications: A Quick Look

To help you visualize the features you’ll find in the under-$700 bracket, here’s a comparison of potential specifications. Remember, these are representative and can vary greatly by specific model and sale price.

<th style="