 Head to your local discount store and you will stumble over all the flat screen television choices that are less than $1,000. The problem is the consumer appetite is often geared toward all things bigger and better.
Sometimes bigger and better savings can be found in online shopping.
With that in mind we will be looking at flat screen models that are listed at 40 inches or more and have an online price of less than $1,000. We will not limit the television choices based on whether they are plasma or LCD.
The end result is a top five list although we are not ranking any of these in a particular order.
Panasonic TH-42PX80U 42" Plasma TV
On the day this article was written the lowest online price found was $748.18. Many users voiced concern over not having PC inputs. Some also considered the unit a little too heavy considering other models available. This one weighed in at a hefty 88 pounds, but the consensus seems to be that the Panasonic TH-42PX80U is a tremendous value in virtually all categories.
Samsung LN40A550 40" LCD TV
The low price found on this model was $949. It is lighter and more energy efficient than the model listed above, but many users do comment negatively on the sound quality. Unlike the Panasonic TH-42PX80U this model can connect to your PC although some indicate the connection process is not as easy as it should be. This model weight in at just under 55 pounds.
Samsung PN50A450 50" Plasma TV
This is one of the most affordable larger sets we will look at. The low price we found was $847.95. Because it is plasma the set will be heavier than other HD alternatives. Sound quality seemed to be an issue for some although many simply linked their TV to an existing sound system for exceptional sound quality. The top end resolution is 720p, which may concern some who feel the need for 1040i, 1040p or even 1080p. This set is listed at just over 75 pounds. The truth is for the general population this television will feel like an incredible bargain for the size and features.
Panasonic Viera TH-50PX80U 50" Plasma TV
The price was $945 when this product was reviewed making it the least expensive 50” models we looked at. Like the above Samsung model this one does not support 1040i or 1040p resolution although 1080 is supported. This set weighs in at just over 87 pounds and customers tended to complain about what they felt was an inferior stand.
Vizio SV420XVT 42" LCD TV
The broadcast standard for this model is entirely HD. Other resolution types may not be well supported in this environment. The online low price for this model was $779.99 making it a strong contender for overall best value. For some the drawback to this unit is the need for preexisting understanding of HD, setup and fine-tuning. Those who did not know much about HD found the unit a bit difficult to navigate while many who were well acquainted with HD liked the option of being able to have control of so many functions. This unit is a featherweight at just 46 pounds.
Two Key Points
1. Pro. Plasma flat screens may be less expensive. Con. Emit heat, consume more electricity and weigh more.
2. Pro. LCD is more energy efficient and weighs less. Con. May be more expensive.
Flat screen TV’s are often mounted to the wall of a living or family room. Knowing the size and weight of the TV you’re considering may be helpful in knowing what wall supports may be required for your individual circumstances.
As with all reviews the prices stated in this article were derived during the evaluation and may not reflect the price you may find in online shopping experiences.
|
Subscribe to this comment's feed