Top 5 2D smart LED TVs
3D TVs are becoming increasingly affordable, but if you're only interested in catching TV shows and Hollywood blockbusters in 2D, here're five LED TVs that get the job done for less. All models feature LED-edgelit panels favored for their slimmer design and lower power consumption, as well as the latest bells and whistles such as smart TV functions and Wi-Fi support.
The LG, Panasonic and Philips models also tout a faster 100Hz refresh rate for smoother motion, while the Samsung and Sony entries excel at rendering deeper blacks.
CNET Asia rating: 7.7 stars
The good: Film-like visuals; natural hues; Smart TV; digital video recording; Wi-Fi upgradeable.
The bad: Slightly soft pictures; milky blacks; LG Apps not ready till Q3 2011; insufficient USB ports.
The bottom line: The LG 55LV5500's natural colors and film-like image quality should appeal to movie buffs, while its Smart TV and DVR functions are icing on the cake.
CNET Asia rating: 7.4 stars
The good: Sharp and smooth pictures; wide viewing angles; SD card slot; DTS support; smart TV.
The bad: Color inaccuracy; lighter blacks; no Web browser; non-swiveling stand; pricey.
The bottom line: The Panasonic Viera TH-L42E30 displays crisp and fluid visuals, but lacks color accuracy and a Web browser, a common feature on other smart TVs.
CNET Asia rating: 7.5 stars
The good: Sharp, smooth and vibrant pictures; attractive metallic finish; smart TV; remote app with direct photo playback capability; unique ambilight lighting.
The bad: Milky blacks; skewed primary colors; limited apps; broken video-recording function; finicky media file compatibility.
The bottom line: The Philips 42PFL7406H is an attractive smart TV, but could have been better in terms of picture quality and online content.
CNET Asia rating: 8.1 stars
The good: Sharp and clean visuals; plasma-like hues and good blacks; Smart TV with VOD apps; Wi-Fi-ready; DTS surround sound support.
The bad: 24p Blu-rays look judderish; no Web browser for Smart TV; visible image cropping for 16:9 aspect ratio.
The bottom line: Expect the Samsung UA40D5500 to deliver crisp and clean visuals, though film judder for 24p Blu-ray Discs and the omission of a Web browser are potential issues.
CNET Asia rating: 8.2 stars
The good: Overall sharp and clean visuals; good blacks and shadow details; Web browser; online videos; Wi-Fi-ready; affordable.
The bad: Visible film judder; slightly muted colors; bass-shy speakers; no Flash support for Web browser; dated app user interface.
The bottom line: This inexpensive LED-edgelit TV outputs good visuals from standard-definition sources, but lacks the color vibrancy of higher-end models.
About the author
Philip Wong is an A/V, PC, photography and gaming enthusiast. Besides spending countless days and late nights fiddling with his home theater system and watercooled PC, he also hits the roads frequently on his iron horse to sweat it out. Now, who says geeks don't work out?
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