The Best TVs to Buy
What are the Best TV’s to Buy? In the years 2010 and 2011 the best HDTVs on the market spanned across the following categories :
Plasma TV’s with dynamic contrast ratios for deeper blacks and brighter whites
LCD TV’s with sharp, crispy images
LED TV’s with beautiful backlit colors and contrast
3D TV’s with eye-popping images that appear to leap from the set
DLP TV’s for stunning picture quality on big and large screen TVs
So it is only deserving that here at HDPlasmaTVReviews.com we bring you the best TVs to buy for 2010-2011
Our in-house expert Wallace Pierce (Twitter @hdtvplasmaguy) has put together a comprehensive guide of the Best TVs to Buy spanning across all of the various HDTV technologies in various sizes. Prices are subject to change without notice.
See the Best TV Warranty section for big discounts on 3-Year TV Warranties (covers everything).
Best TVs to Buy for 2010-2011
Need an HDTV larger than 70 inches? See:
» Big and Large Screen TV’s
What Size LCD/LED TV Do I Need?
This chart shows the optimal viewing distance based on size, resolution, and minimum/maximum viewing distance.
| LCD/LED TV Size (inch) | Optimal Distance for 720p (inch) | Optimal Distance for 1080p (inch) | Viewing Distance Range (inch) |
| 26 | 61 | 40 | 35 to 66 |
| 32 | 75 | 50 | 45 to 80 |
| 37 | 87 | 58 | 53 to 92 |
| 40 | 94 | 62 | 57 to 99 |
| 42 | 99 | 66 | 61 to 104 |
| 46 | 108 | 72 | 67 to 113 |
| 47 | 111 | 74 | 69 to 115 |
| 50 | 118 | 79 | 74 to 123 |
| 52 | 124 | 82 | 77 to 129 |
| 54 | 127 | 84 | 79 to 132 |
| 55 | 130 | 86 | 81 to 135 |
| 58 | 136 | 90 | 85 to 141 |
| 60 | 141 | 94 | 89 to 146 |
| 63 | 148 | 98 | 93 to 153 |
| 65 | 153 | 102 | 97 to 158 |
return to top
————————————————
What Size Plasma TV Do I Need?
This chart shows the optimal viewing distance based on size, resolution, and minimum/maximum viewing distance.
| Plasma TV Size (inch) | Optimal Distance for 720p (inch) | Optimal Distance for 1080p (inch) | Viewing Distance Range (inch) |
| 26 | 61 | 40 | 35 to 66 |
| 32 | 75 | 50 | 45 to 80 |
| 37 | 87 | 58 | 53 to 92 |
| 40 | 94 | 62 | 57 to 99 |
| 42 | 99 | 66 | 61 to 104 |
| 46 | 108 | 72 | 67 to 113 |
| 50 | 118 | 79 | 74 to 123 |
| 54 | 127 | 84 | 79 to 132 |
| 55 | 130 | 86 | 81 to 135 |
| 58 | 136 | 90 | 85 to 141 |
| 60 | 141 | 94 | 89 to 146 |
| 63 | 148 | 98 | 93 to 153 |
| 65 | 153 | 102 | 97 to 158 |
return to top
————————————————
Best TVs to Buy (Reviews)
Sony BRAVIA Series
The Sony Bravia Series is a superbly designed class of Flat Screen TV’s that were engineered to deliver the ultimate cinematic experience by displaying fluidly beautiful imagery via Motionflow advanced motion processing technology (240Hz refresh rate). Therefore fast moving objects during movies, gaming and sports broadcast look extremely smooth when compared to other Flat Screen TV’s of the past.
Selected as one of Oprah’s favorite things, the Sony Bravia Series uses Motionflow to intelligently create new frames between pictures that visually create a better picture in action scenes than the original film did in which the movie shot. The LED backlight design creates a synergy of the deepest blacks, brightest whites, most vibrant color, and amazing overall contrast that is all packed into a slim, stylish cabinet. Not only is the 2D exceptional, but in the LED category the Sony Bravia Series was one of the best TVs to buy 2010-2011.
Difference between KDL X810, XBR and Z Series.
The KDL X810 is Dynamic Edge 3D LED which provides a stunning state of the art experience in Full 3D HD with all the bells and whistles (Internet Connectivity, Wi-Fi, etc). XBR are the eXtended Bit Rate versions of the KDL series. XBR, an acronym for eXtended Bit Rate, which designates Sony’s high performance series of televisions featuring advanced features and progressive industrial design without 3D Capability. The Z Series is only one step below the XBR series and make for a comparable substitute when pricing has become a factor. The picture quality between the XBR and Z series is almost identical to a non-videophile.
Purchase the Sony Bravia 810 Series (Dynamic Edge 3D LED)
Purchase the Sony XBR
(XBR7 previous model – yet Exceptional)
(XBR7 previous model – yet Exceptional)
Bravia Z Series:
(One of the best pre-2010 LCD’s ever made)
(Flawless 40-inch LCD)
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Samsung 46 inch Class LN Series 1080p
In the LCD category one of the best TVs to buy in recent time, the Samsung 46 inch Class LN Series delivers picture quality, features, and a price that almost has no equal. The Dynamic Contrast Ratio 120,000:1 enhances the picture to create the deepest blacks and most vibrant whites of any LCD TV available..even surpassing some high-end LED models. The Auto Motion Plus 120Hz virtually eliminate blur on fast motion broadcasting (especially sports) and the Samsung Apps are a wireless delight consisting of: ESPN3, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, Pandora, CinemaNow, and more.
We reviewed the 46 inch model of the LN series back in September in which you can go back and read the complete Samsung 46 inch Class LCD 1080p HDTV Review. Samsung has also since released the 3D model and both at an affordable price to deliver maximum value to the consumer.
Purchase the Samsung Class LN
Touch of Color RED (Game Mode)
Touch of Color Silver Deco
(3D / Game Mode)
Touch of Color Charcoal Deco (Game Mode)
(Previous model – Flawless)
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Samsung UNC8000 Series 1080p 240 Hz 3D LED
Samsung makes a very strong statement with the Samsung UNC8000 Series and continues to be a leader in high end LED Flat Screen TV manufacturing.
These Flatscreens deliver a visual experience that is near flawless in every manner possible. Every detail, every black, every white, color and contrast is processed so amazingly well that we have to firmly state this was one of the best TVs to buy in the LED TV category for the past year. Combine this with the Samsung Web Apps and you have a TV that will engulf you in bliss for hours. The Samsung UNC8000 Series is a big winner for 2010-2011.
Purchase the Samsung C8000
return to top | view sizing chart
Panasonic VIERA VT25/GT25 Seriess 1080p Plasma
When you step into the Plasma arena the Panasonic VIERA is the elite of all 3D-Ready HDTV’s utilizing plasma technology today and one of the best TVs to buy across any category. The VIERA has Infinite Black, 1080 Moving Picture Resolution, VIERA Cast streaming movies, shows, music, and is a breeze to setup. The 600Hz technology displays full-HD motion images with absolutely no aftereffects and unparalleled clarity.
The VT25/GT25 Series are the much improved models over the older G25 models and come 3D-Ready to future proof this impressive HDTV line.
Purchase the Panasonic VIERA
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Mitsubishi WD-73737 73-Inch 1080p 120Hz Home Theater DLP >
Of those who are fortunate enough to have space in their TV room to accommodate such a behemoth the 73-inch Mitsubishi DLP is one of the best TVs to buy in the DPL category and can be described as nothing less than”visually breathtaking”.
At the large format sizes DLP technology is superb for Home Theater HDTV’s. The TV processes images with Smooth 120Hz Film Motion that serve to eliminate motion artifacts for a flawless picture, and even has 3 HDMI inputs that converts low-res signals to 1080p.
This TV is also built high energy efficiency (Energy Star 3.0) so it won’t come back and get you on the back end with a high energy bill in months afterward. The 73-inch Mitsubishi DLP is our top choice as it’s size. Return to top to purchase.
Purchase the Mitsubishi WD-73737
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
The Toshiba REGZA ZV650 Series is an extensive line of high-end LCD HDTVs that deliver the wow factor for sports, video games and fast-paced action movies. The ClearScan 240 Hz frame rate technology delivers fluid nature motion and features PC Input to use a PC monitor or strictly gaming TV (with Gaming Mode). This line comes complete with DynaLight technology that enhance black levels as previously only enjoyed in Plasma TV technology. Toshiba has newer lines such as the Cinema Series which are LED-backlit which still require some tweaking and are inferior in our opinion. The Toshiba REGZA ZV650 is essentially an LCD for those who do not need all the unnecessary bells and whistles such as Internet apps and streaming media. Therefore you will find this line has exceptional pricing which makes the Toshiba REGZA ZV650 an outstanding LCD purchase.
Purchase the REGZA ZV650
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Sharp Quattron (AQUOS)
“You have to see it to see it” – Sharp
Sharp has the goal to reproduce every color in the world. So Sharp has introduced a new advanced quad pixel technology that adds yellow as a fourth color to the RGB spectrum all other TV’s create images through to display onscreen colors that have never been electronically reproduced before on any device. We reviewed this TV back in October (Read the complete Sharp Quattron TV review) and we floored by picture the Sharp Quattron displayed.
This means you will be able to see sparkling golds, Caribbean blues, sunflower yellows and other exotic colors your eyes have never experienced and all within the 3D format combined with the AQUOS Net internet apps and a variety of other equally impressive features. This is one of the best TVs to buy across any category and rightfully deserves it’s perfect rating.
The Sharp Quattron is available in many different sizes including 60 inches, 52 inches, 46 inches, and 40 inches with the 60″ model as most impressive, but the others flawless nonetheless.
The 2009 and prior AQUOS LCD line featured a Black TFT Panel with Spectral Contrast Engine XD that essentially creates a very high Contrast Ratio and wider viewing angles for an LCD. These models were mainly 120HZ and handled fast-motion image processing very well. We would suggest purchasing a pre-2010 model is if you are looking for a very large high-end LCD TV and do not mind giving up the 2010 Vyper Drive features. In this case there are 2009 and prior 65 inch models available in the AQUOS line.
The 2010 AQUOS LCD Line features the breathtaking X-Gen Panel model that creates bright vibrant images while maintaining gorgeous dark areas. The TV will automatically adjust to daylight or nighttime conditions. These models are 240Hz and intelligently creates and inserts images in fast motion sequences to fill in gaps for an exceptionally smooth picture with stunning detail. Sports and fast-action movie sequences look almost too good.These TV’s also feature “Vyper Drive” gaming mode that creates a “Gamers Dream” effectively eliminating all lag during videogame play. The Sharp AQUOS is an environmentally conscious LCD that requires fewer resources to manufacture and less energy to use with extended operating life making this our highest rated pure LCD TV.
Purchase The Sharp Quattron
(X-Gen LCD panel)
(X-Gen LCD panel)
(Non 3D-Ready)
(Non 3D-Ready)
(Non 3D-Ready)
Purchase the Sharp AQUOS:
2010:
(X-Gen/Vyper Drive)
(Vyper Drive)
(Vyper Drive)
2009 and prior:
(Exceptional 65 inch TV)
(Exceptional TV)
(Exceptional TV)
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Pioneer Elite KURO Series
The Pioneer Kuro is a flawless inclusion in the “Best TVs to Buy” series and one that executes everything to perfection. From the deep blacks with details you didn’t even know were there to the richest colors that can be generated on an electronic device this Flat Screen seems to endlessly impress. The settings will even allow you to calibrate and tweak the settings to adjust to the time of day and brightness of the room. The audio and video combined is even more amazing and certainly one the best non-3D-Ready Plasma TV’s on the market.
Purchase the Pioneer Elite KURO
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
VIZIO 47-Inch Class Full HD 3D TV
When you consider picture quality, pricing and features the VIZIO 47-Inch Class is the one of best TVs to buy in terms of overall TV value. It has exceptional fast motion picture clarity, 3D capability, internet connectivity and TruSurround audio. We could not rate this Flat Screen TV higher than 9.5/10 since we feel the 3D could be improved upon. Through a series of lab tests the 3D would blur around the edges of certain images. As HDTV reviewers this is something we must point out however we realize that many people may never even notice such detail. Overall the value is strong enough to warrant an entry-level 3D HDTV purchase.
Purchase the Vizio Class
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Samsung PNC8000/PN7000 Series Flat Screen TVs
The Samsung PNC8000/PN7000 Series is one of the most impressive larger size Plasma Flat Screen TVs with 3D-Capability on the market. Not too many other 3D-Ready Plasma can deliver such stunningly flawless picture quality and this is especially true for fast-motion images where there is essentially no blurring whatsoever. We were especially impressed with how thin the models are at 1.5 inches deep.
A whole slew of features are combined within this already impressive set including ConnectShare to access content on your digital camera or thumb drive, Samsung Smart TV for your favorite internet apps, and a content library to store all of your favorite media files. The SamsungPNC8000/PN7000 Series leads the pack as one of the best TVs to buy in the 3-D Ready Plasma category.
Purchase the Samsung C8000/C7000:
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Panasonic TC-P42S2 42-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV
The Panasonic VIERA series is hard to top, and at the 42-inch level nothing much has changed. With VIERA Plasmas you have comfort in knowing you are always getting Full 1920x1080p High-Definition at 600Hz to handle fast-motion for sports broadcasts and Game Mode with quicker video game image response.
What is so great about VIERA Plasma’s is that they produce the dark images in games more clearly than other HDTVs. The TV will never cast ghost images or summer from image retention. A nearly unbeatable purchase at 42 inches.
Purchase the Panasonic TC-P42S2
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Overwhelming one of the best TVs to buy in the Plasma category in terms of balancing features, price, TV size and picture display quality. The LG INFINIA Series displays THX Display Certified images, colors and black levels while also giving you NetCast Entertainment Access to watch movies on-demand in Full HD 1080p with real Dolby Digital Plus Sound. This is perhaps the most raved about feature for the INFINIA series and the good news is that it’s not going to hurt you in the wallet. With 600Hz Sub Field Driving these Plasma’s also handle fast motion for sports and gaming exceptionally well. There probably is no better value for these features at this pricing at these screen sizes, which make INFINIA’s outstanding purchases.
Purchase the LG INFINIA PK 750:
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Panasonic VIERA X1 Series
The Panasonic VIERA X1 Series is an overwhelmingly popular 720p TV model amongst countless consumers for it’s amazing picture quality and clarity that even outperforms many 1080p sets. Anyone who has seen this Flat Screen TV in action will go on to say how well DVD displays, and we feel that it actually makes DVD look just as good as Blu-Ray in some cases. Fast action sequences, video games and sports broadcasts look absolutely superb. It is almost impossible to detect that this is not a 1080p set and the price makes it an unmatched value. The 26 inch model even has an iPod Dock to share music files through your TV set (as does the ).
Purchase the Panasonic VIERA X1:
(LCD counterpart with iPod Dock)
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
LG 37LE5300 37-Inch 1080p 120 Hz LED LCD TV
At the 37 inch level and LG gives us excellent value in terms of price and quality with this set. This set beat out a popular comparable 37-inch Panasonic TC-L37U22. Overwhelmingly many people will state they like this Flat Screen TV a bit more than the Panasonic TC-37U22, and from the perspective that you pay for what you get you are going to get a bit more from this TV in terms of how it handles Blu-Ray, Gaming, and Sports broadcasts. The 24P Real Cinema feature yields crispy vibrant colors and the TruMotion 120Hz technology delivers sports action with no motion blur whatsoever.
If you want a high-end 37 inch this TV makes a strong argument for being the top choice on the market.
Purchase the LG 37LE5300
(Worth checking out for $450 if 37″ is your perfect size)
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
Panasonic TC-L32X2 32-Inch 720p LCD TV with iPod Dock
The best kept secret in 32 inch LCD TVs. The reason we rate this TV so high is that in terms of value: price + quality, it makes for an unparalleled purchase at this size.
You get everything you expect in a Panasonic VIERA, but this TV has an iPod dock to enable you to control and play music through and iPod or iPhone. At 32 inches you don’t really need 1080p so 720p is sufficient. DVD/Blu-Ray and Games display remarkably sharp, vibrant and impressive on this set.
If you cannot accommodate a large HDTV set then this is possibly the best purchase available. Not even the Vizio or Sony Bravia 32 inch sets offer what this one offers. A favorite of Consumer Reports and a favorite of ours.
Purchase the Panasonic TC-L32X2
return to top | view sizing chart
————————————————
What are the Best TVs to Buy in 2011
Incoming search terms for the article:
- best tvs to buy 2011
- which TV is the best to buy a HD LCD or Plasma
- sony kdlx810 review
- sony 60 led kdlx810
- reviews on sony tv\s 2011 best buy
- plasma tv best buy
- plasma best buy 2011
- Panasonic VIERA VT25/GT25 Series
- panasonic 37u22 review
- mitsubishi 73 inch flat screen