That's because you guys are looking at not only budget brands, but their low end models
For TCL, you really need to stay with the 5 series at minimum for passable picture, preferably the 6 series if you're more serious.
For Vizio, look at M series (non quantum dot is 2018) since P appears more than what you want.
For better build quality, polish, reliability, QC etc. Sony would be the best followed by Samsung but the price reflects it. LG is only good with OLED so they'll be out of your price.
The same reason it's hard for you to recommend HTIB or crappy sound bar even for people that say they don't care about audio