LG 55LW5600 55" 3D LED TV (1920x1080, 120Hz, HDTV, LED Edgelight, 3D)

297 Reviews

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	Price: $1599.99
	Price: $1599.00
	Price: $1499.01
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Pros: Has passive 3D feature that uses less energy, Does not require bulky and expensive goggles, Solid Internet Connectivity, Includes Wi-Fi dongle
Cons: Passive 3D may be less distinct than active 3D, Audio quality is mediocre

For the serious videophile looking for a superior HDTV with 3D projection capabilities, we recommend that you take a look at the LG Infinia LW5600. As we all know, the biggest complaints regarding 3D television are the high price of the sets themselves and the goggles being heavy and cumbersome aside from being expensive. This series attempts to address these issues, and wouldn't you know it, has some success in doing so. It also takes a more economical approach in solving those two issues. Instead of the TV actively projecting a 3D image onto the screen and having the goggles alternately show the left and right sides of the image, it utilizes a passive thin film technology that very slightly skews the image into two angles, and using the polarized lenses that come with the package, lets your brain do the compositing into a 3D image. This method also yields a welcome side benefit as it consumes much less electricity than a standard set-top 3D receiver, maxing out at around 95 watts even with power saving disabled. The polarized lenses are not only much smaller and lighter in size, but more importantly, do not require any batteries and are very affordable. LG has generously included a pack of four pairs of glasses along with the TV, but you may purchase additional ones if needed. 2D viewing is likewise top-notch, with 1080p resolution and 120Hz TruMotion technology delivering excellent, crisp detail with almost zero motion blur, even with high-speed images like action movies and sports events. Accessing the Internet through the LW5600 is as straightforward as plugging either the supplied USB Wi-Fi receiver or an Ethernet cable, depending on which type you may have. While most Web-ready TVs use a slide-out QWERTY keypad integrated into the remote, this model uses two remote controls. One is the main remote which you can also use for text entry like a mobile phone and the other is the highly innovative Magic Motion Remote that works like a mouse for more intuitive navigation and enables you to get to the Smart TV dashboard where you'll find all the assorted apps and services at your fingertips like a web browser, hotlinks to your social networks and streaming media services aside from having a continuous feed of whatever it is that you are watching at the moment. The issues regarding this HDTV seem to be concentrated around the critique of the passive 3D, as well as the sound quality. The passive LCD is, of course, less distinct than active displays, but manages to pull off without too much compromise in overall picture quality. The sound coming from the onboard speakers may also seem a bit thin so connecting the set to a speaker system will be a great move. In summary, although it does have its share of cons, the features offered by the LG Infinia LW5600 make up for its limitations.

LG 42LK450 42" LCD TV (1920x1080, 60 Hz, HDTV)

283 Reviews

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	Price: $579.99
	Price: $629.99
	Price: $579.00
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Pros: 1080p resolution, USB media playback, Intelligent Sensor calibrates picture quality
Cons: No Internet connectivity, Speakers are a bit weak

While not exactly cutting-edge, the LG LK450 does have its share of advanced technology while selling at a lower price than later models. This is the HDTV model to get if size is a consideration alongside budget, as the midsize screen means that it's not too big as to take up acres of space but not too small as well. It is great for TV purists who are more into watching TV or videos and a little gaming, but not much else. The LK450 has two of the basic characteristics that are usually found in an HDTV: an LCD display capable of 1080p resolution and a set of HDMI ports for input and output, of which it has three. Aside from HDMI, it has a TOSLINK Optical Audio out to connect with a sound system, Composite and Component outputs, a VGA port for PC output and a single USB port to play content directly from storage media like flash drives. The USB playback, in particular, has to be commended as it handles decoding flawlessly. What it doesn't have, though, is Wi-Fi or even an Ethernet connection, so Internet access is out of the question. The screen's refresh rate is at par with ordinary TV sets at 60 Hz and the audio comes from two twenty-watt speakers. The audio output is a bit weak though, so it's recommended to use the optical audio out to its full advantage. All in all, the pared-down feature set of this model makes it more for bedrooms than for living rooms or rec rooms. The features may be on the lighter side but that does not mean that the LG LK450 LCD TV scrimps on functionality too. A responsive Intelligent Sensor automatically calibrates the display to compensate for lighting conditions, which in turn, results in a better overall picture. The picture quality may not match top-of-the-line units but it is still pretty decent and does the job as it should. The menu system on the TV is twofold; a simpler one for basic settings and a more comprehensive one. Also, this model is VESA-compatible for easy wall mounting and it saves more energy, as it meets Energy Star guidelines.

LG Infinia 42LV5500 42" LED TV (1920x1080, 120Hz, HDTV, LED Backlight)

259 Reviews

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	Price: $989.99
	Price: $989.97
	Price: $896.00
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Pros: Matte screen, Great image quality, Thin bezel, Includes WI-FI Adaptor and Magic Motion Remote Control
Cons: No Flash support, Limited LG Apps

The LG Infinia LV5500 is not the smartest TV on the block but it is one of the slimmest and easiest to set-up and use. It also comes with a smorgasbord of convenient features that make it worth looking into. For instance, you can enjoy a cable-free connection at no additional cost and experience faster and better control with the 5-button Magic Motion remote. You can even watch videos and view pictures from your thumb drives by plugging them directly to your HDTV's USB 2.0 input. Furthermore, LG’s LED Plus technology reduces power consumption without compromising picture quality and the Picture Wizard II enables you to easily enhance color and sharpness. There are also seven Picture Modes and three Color Temperature Modes for easier adjustments. On the other hand, although this LED HDTV is capable of media-streaming, it doesn't have flash support and the apps are not as limitless as advertised. With that said, it may not be a perfect match for those who are planning to use it mainly for surfing and streaming lots of Internet-based content. In terms of sound quality, the two 10-watt speakers are good for small rooms but if yours is larger and you want a more realistic experience, we recommend getting a set of really good speakers. The LG Infinia LV5500 is embedded with TruMotion 120Hz technology which lets you view fast action scenes without the annoying blur. There are four HDMI Ports and a built in Ethernet port which can be useful in case you prefer a wired connection. Aside from the WI-FI Adaptor and Magic Motion remote, you also get a standard, backlit remote control. All things considered, it will make a great upgrade to your standard TV.

Samsung UN55D8000 55" 3D LED TV (1920x1080, 240Hz, HDTV, LED Backlight, 3D)

327 Reviews

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	Price: $3239.99
	Price: $1978.00
	Price: $1894.00
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Pros: Outstanding image quality, Ultra-slim and classy design, Built-in WiFi, Includes 2 pairs of 3D active glasses
Cons: Remote is difficult to use, Too expensive, Glossy finish

Designed with an exceptionally-thin brushed titanium bezel and a matching swivel stand, the Samsung D8000 series fuses beauty with function. Its price may be a little over the top, but it’s probably due to the fact that it is poles apart from earlier and competing models. Aside from packing a solid feature set, it attracts attention with its almost frameless design that takes realism to new heights and at the same time, adds to the unit's already stunning aesthetics. This model renders amazing 3D visuals and offers Full HD 1080p content viewing. The Ultra Clear Panel not only reduces reflection from other light sources but also provides improved contrast and rich color. In comparison with most TV models, it has a web browser and more built-in apps. It also gives you wireless access to a large collection of movies, music, TV shows and other online content and even supports video calling through Skype. All the TV sizes in the D8000 series (46", 55", 60" and 65") are capable of converting 2D content to their best possible 3D quality and integrated with Micro Dimming Plus for optimized picture quality and Clear Motion Rate 960 technology which enables pristine rendering of fast-action scenes and dramatically improves response rates. Using its swivel stand, you can rotate the screen up to 10 degrees and experience maximum viewing comfort. Also included with the purchase are two pairs of 3D Active Glasses. Connectivity isn't a problem as the unit comes with four HDMI inputs, three USB 2.0 ports, a PC input, 2 Composite inputs, a Component input and an Ethernet port, if you want a wired connection. You can even hook up compatible devices like cameras and camcorders and view digital content in the big screen, courtesy of AllShare and ConnectShare Movie. In terms of audio, there are two built-in 10-watt bottom speakers with SRS TheaterSound technology which deliver sound with power and clarity. A PC audio input (mini-jack), a DVI audio input and an audio output (mini-jack) are also present as well as some extra features like a built-in HDTV Tuner, V-Chip which gives parents peace of mind and Anynet+ for controlling all compatible devices without the clutter of too many controllers. While the backlit QWERTY Remote is a nice upgrade to the standard clickers, it is one of the few things in this TV that needs to be improved upon. It has a nice design but it is not easy to use, so purchasing a universal remote control is probably better. For the price, it is also quite disappointing that Samsung didn't skip the glossy finish, which is nice to look at, but in turn, makes the screen reflective. Nonetheless, Samsung has another strong contender in its lineup. The D8000 combines state-of-the-art technology with simple operation and it delivers outstanding image quality which can be considered superior across the board.

Panasonic VIERA TC-P55ST30 55" 3D Plasma TV (1920x1080, HDTV, 3D)

245 Reviews

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	Price: $1618.00
	Price: $1389.00
	Price: $1299.99
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Pros: Solid picture quality, Eco-friendly, Includes a Wi-Fi dongle
Cons: No THX mode, Doesn't come supplied with 3D glasses and wall-mounting bracket

Like other models in the Viera Line of products, the Panasonic ST30 sports the same Mercury- and Lead-free display that helps the environment. The plasma panel is also rated to last for up to 100,000 hours thus, extending product life. Although its bezel is thicker and its price is lower than most HDTVs, it still provides incredible depth and solid picture quality. It boasts a Full-HD Resolution Speed of 1,200 pps and renders full HD 1080p and 3D content with a rate of up to 120 frames per second. 2D-3D Conversion delivers high-quality entertainment and the 600Hz Sub-field Drive offer fluid video playback. Also, it optimizes video in order to display the best possible images when watching 24p films and incorporates an Improved Pre-discharge & Filter and Infinite Black 2 technology that absorb most ambient light, resulting in deeper and richer blacks. For the price, most users would think that it already comes with a pair of 3D active glasses but unfortunately, Panasonic was not generous enough to include one which means that you'll need to spend a little more to take full advantage of its 3D feature. The good thing is that they can be bought separately at a modest price. In terms of audio quality, the sound that the 20-watt full range speakers produce is definitely not mediocre. It provides cinematic surround sound and has plenty of volume. Hardcore gamers would be delighted to know that there is a Game Mode for a more engaging gaming experience. Moreover, VIERA Link lets you control all your compatible AV devices like DVD player, network camera, camcorder and home theater system without the clutter of too many clickers and VIERA Connect delivers web content right at your fingertips. The long list of providers include but are not limited to Facebook, Skype, Twitter, AP, Hulu Plus, Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Video, NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, Asphalt5 and Bodymedia. Like the GT30, Wi-Fi Capability can be unlocked through the use of the included Wi-Fi dongle. There is also an Ethernet port, three HDMI inputs, a dedicated SD slot for viewing 3D videos and stills taken from 3D-compatible cameras and two USB ports for playing media content off your thumb drives and other USB-enabled devices. The Panasonic ST30 series flaunts the same design found on other Panasonic TVs. It is slightly bulkier and has rounded edges, making it more suited for home use. With sizes ranging from 46-inch to 65-inch, you can easily pick the size of display you want in your room. While it doesn't include a wall-mounting bracket, it includes a swivel stand that lets you adjust the unit for the best viewing position. There is also no need to keep your manuals close at hand because the VIERA Tools user interface gives you easy, on-screen instructions. The only feature that it lacks is the THX mode but other than that, it is as feature-packed as other models.

LG 42LK520 42" LCD TV (1920x1080, 120 Hz, HDTV)

238 Reviews

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	Price: $719.99
	Price: $649.99
	Price: $667.01
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Pros: Great basic HDTV, Matte screen, Less expensive
Cons: No Internet capability, Base seems a little weak

The LG LK520 series is a superb choice if you're transitioning from ordinary CRT TVs into flat-panel sets or if you're new to the whole HD market. It delivers solid performance at a price point that is very friendly to those working on limited budgets and it also has the full set of features which have nearly become standard for TV sets with the 1080p certification. It shows stunningly clear and brilliant images with a 16:9 aspect ratio and a very high contrast at 150,000:1, and the Full 1080p HD resolution of the unit resolves at 120Hz, twice as fast as the 60Hz refresh rate of CRT set-tops, giving you a world of additional visible detail even with fast-paced scenes in sports events or movies. A 178-degree, left and right viewing angle means that no picture inversion is visible wherever you sit in relation to the TV while snappy response time rated at 2.4 ms means that you can get from setup to watching TV in no time at all. The superior HD capability is likewise perfect for watching Blu-Ray movies or playing games using next-generation gaming consoles, and the three HDMI ports built into the model make sure that there's always a port ready for use whenever needed without having to unplug any of your other devices. While it does not have any means to access the Internet as it does not have an Ethernet port nor a wireless adapter, it can easily double as a computer monitor through a VGA input. You can even play media like movies, music or pictures straight from flash drives via the lone USB port. Sound quality, apparently, is the LK520's low point as it only has ten-watt speakers for sound output. That is actually adequate enough for everyday use but if you want a better audio experience, you can connect it to an external amplifier using either an HDMI or an optical digital audio cord. When it comes to build quality, it goes with the usual formula of having a body that is mostly plastic with a metal frame inside for strength. This makes the weight of the unit, pegged at about 35 pounds, more of a desktop set rather than one for your wall. The bezel is shiny, but the screen, fortunately, is matte for less light reflection. Perhaps, the biggest issue you may find with this particular TV is, curiously enough, not in any way related with the unit's performance. Instead, it has more to do with the base of the unit which feels a little weak due to its semi-plastic construction. Being an entry-level set, the LG LK520 does not have the advanced functionality that other HDTVs offer, like being able to stream Internet content. From another standpoint, the choice to dispense with next-gen features to keep things fancy enough but not too much as to be ridiculously expensive, makes it a solid pick for a basic HDTV.

Samsung UN55D6000 55" LED TV (1920x1080, 240Hz, HDTV, LED Backlight)

291 Reviews

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	Price: $1697.99
	Price: $1546.00
Vanns.com	Price: $1697.00
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Pros: Great design, Improved features, Internet-ready, Energy efficient
Cons: Contrast degradation issues, No Ethernet connection, Needs wireless adapter to connect to the Internet

The Samsung D6000 series is one of this year's entry-level HDTVs from Samsung. It has most of the standard high-end features present in nearly all of the other offerings from the product line and as an added bonus, corrects a few flaws found in previous releases. To start with, it has a screen bounded by a half-inch thin elegant and high-gloss bezel in piano black. The eye-catching design is enhanced by a clear acrylic border tinged with a slight reddish hue for greater style. This design effectively gives the illusion that this TV has a bigger screen size than it actually does. The profile is paper-thin at 1.2 inches without the base, and the screen refreshes at 120Hz, with an improved Auto Motion Plus and Clear Motion rate features that eliminate motion blur and increase clarity for more lifelike action - perfect for live events like sports, news or concerts. The Auto Motion Plus feature, in particular, has been tweaked for better rendering than the version found in other models. This HDTV is energy efficient too. A sensor adjusts the amount of backlighting the LED screen gives off, depending on the ambient light of the room which equates to lesser power consumption. It also has full HD capability with 1080p resolution and four HDMI inputs at the side of the unit. Color reproduction, in general, is accurate and vibrant thanks to the Wide Color Enhancer. On the other hand, it does have some apparent contrast degradation issues. Darker tones begin to appear grayish blue to viewers sitting farther away from the center and reaches its peak at around a 30-degree angle from the middle. The Ultra Clear Panel screen that cuts down on the glare does its part, but the best solution, of course, is to sit as close to the middle as possible. This model belongs to the Smart TV line as well, and thus, is Internet-ready. The Samsung Apps platform of web-based applications is fully represented here and is easily accessible with the touch of a menu button. However, it can only access the Internet through a wireless interface rather than a wireless and wired combination. When getting the TV, be sure to grab the separate wireless adapter as well. With regards to controls, the Samsung D6000 LED TV comes supplied with a nicely backlit remote and has a simplified menu system redesigned from the one in earlier models, which was quite confusing aside from being a little hard to read.

Panasonic VIERA TC-P65GT30 65" 3D Plasma TV (1920x1080, HDTV, 3D)

186 Reviews

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	Price: $3328.00
Vanns.com	Price: $2598.00
	Price: $2309.00
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Pros: Superior picture quality, Lead-free display, Includes a swivel stand and a Wi-Fi adapter
Cons: 3D Glasses are not included, Bottom speakers make the unit slightly thicker, Glossy bezel, Clicker has no dedicated Netflix button

Although more expensive and thicker than the ST30, the Panasonic GT30 is a perfect match for those who wants a grand view of their movies and other media content. It doesn't cost nearly as much as buying a high-end TV and it makes ghosting and low-quality video output a thing of the past. It boasts a full HD 1080p resolution and a frame rate of up to 120 frames per second. The lead and mercury-free display not only ensures dazzling picture quality, it also offers lower power consumption and a longer panel life of up to 100,000 hours. As mentioned, it is chunkier than the earlier series so those who didn't want the overall size of the ST30 would not be impressed by the GT30, as it measures 2.2 inches deep due to the addition of bottom speakers which can't be detached. The glossy bezel also makes it a bit of a dust-magnet and there are no 3D glasses included with the package so you need to shell out a bit in order to get hold of the 3D feature. On the other hand, the supplied stand is not ordinary, it is capable of swiveling thus, providing more flexibility than the standard ones. The Infinite Black 2 technology offers incredible contrast and deep blacks even in bright environments and the 600Hz Subfield drive enables you to view fast action scenes at full speed. 2D-3D Conversion can also be considered top notch as it produces the best possible output and plays crystal clear images. Thanks to Viera Link, you can de-clutter your desk and control all compatible devices like cameras, camcorders, Blu-Ray players and home theater system using the same remote control. However, the clicker doesn't have a dedicated Netflix button like other models but still, it is easy to use and comfortable in the hand. The GT30 lets you experience a wireless, convenient connection with the inclusion of a Wi-Fi dongle. It is worth mentioning that most TVs in the same price range don't usually come with one. Through Viera Connect, you can get updates from Facebook or Twitter, videocall or chat with your friends on skype and enjoy interactive and engaging content from a great number of providers including YouTube, HuluPlus, CinemaNow, Amazon Video, Netflix, NBA, MLB, NHL and NFL. The ST30 is a great TV with ample features and the same could be said about the GT30. It is neither the slimmest nor the classiest model available today but the solid picture quality and great feature set make it worth the extra money. It even has a 3D Image Viewer which enables you to insert your SD card into the dedicated slot and view your photos directly from your TV.

Panasonic Viera TC-P60S30 60" Plasma TV (1920x1080, 600 Hz, HDTV)

222 Reviews

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	Price: $1708.00
	Price: $999.00
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Pros: Less expensive than other Plasma TVs, Incredible picture quality, Matte screen
Cons: Lackluster sound quality, Limited connection options

Generally less expensive than 3D TVs, the Panasonic VIERA S30 series is a credible choice for plasma seekers who want an upgrade but doesn't want to take it a step further than media streaming and 1080p resolution. It has the same, thin form factor and almost the same amount of features but without the 3D ability which causes most TVs to be a little overpriced. With its accurate color and excellent black levels, plus the 600Hz Sub-field Drive and matte screen which effectively reduces glare to a great degree, you can view sports and action movies with a clearer and crisper picture. By simply pushing the VIERA Tools button on the supplied remote control, you are rocketed straight to an extensive collection of media-streaming services like Pandora, Netflix, CinemaNow and Amazon Instant Video. You can also get social updates from Facebook. Being Wi-Fi ready, all you have to do in order to stream online content without the hassle of tangling wires is to hook up an optional wireless LAN adaptor. Panasonic, however, skimped on sound quality and connection options. The full-range 20-watt speakers produce lackluster audio and the connection options on the S30 are fewer compared to competing models, with only three HDMI Inputs, a Composite and Component Video input, an Ethernet port, an SD card slot and two USB 2.0 ports. The Panasonic VIERA S30 series come in a variety of sizes, from 42" and 46" to 50" and 60". It ships with a stand but you can also mount it on your wall by purchasing an optional mounting bracket. In case you get caught up somewhere in between setting up the TV and watching, the VIERA Tools interface is designed to help you out. It explains what each function does, making it more understandable for novices. VIERA Link also allows you to avoid the confusing, jumble of remotes on your center table. Needless to say, 3D TVs definitely cost more. So if you think that the TV's 3D ability is not necessary, the S30 is a great alternative. It delivers exceptional Full HD 1080p without flattening your bank account and it pared the features down to the essentials.