Engadget's Holiday Gift Guide: Televisions
By Richard Lawler 
posted December 4th 2009 2:09PM
posted December 4th 2009 2:09PM
Welcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! The team here is well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties of the seasonal shopping experience, and we want to help you sort through the trash and come up with the treasures this year. Below is today's bevy of hand curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season.
Want a gift the whole family can enjoy? A brand new television is sure to do the trick and with more HDTV content available than ever from antenna, cable, satellite, Blu-ray discs or even the internet, there will always be something to watch. Whether it's their first flat-panel or an upgrade, these picks come through in several price ranges selected to maximize your, we mean their, viewing pleasure. The only question left we can't help you with? Who gets the first turn on the remote.
VIZIO SV421XVT - Over the last few years VIZIO has carved out a healthy piece of the market by toeing the luxury feature line without forgetting its value-priced roots, and the SV421XVT is a great example of that. Just a little over $800 will bring a capable 1080p dorm-room bigscreen LCD to your Secret Santa recipient, with 240Hz motion processing, wide viewing angles and energy efficient backlighting. Sprinkle four HDMI inputs and the ability to play back HD movies, music and images via its USB port and the only problem will be pulling them away from this screen long enough to thank you. (Also available in 32- to 55-inch sizes)
From $830 - Shop for VIZIO SV421XVT
Panasonic TC-P42S1 - Usually, dipping under the $1,000 barrier means picture quality is thrown to the wayside, but that's not the case with Panasonic's S1 plasma series. Based on the company's G12 NeoPDP panel it's got the brightness and antireflective filter to keep images popping even in well lit rooms, and with a 40,000:1 native contrast ratio and sub-$800 price tag at many local retailers, it pulls off a double trick of pleasing the eyes and the wallet. Additional features like an SD slot for viewing digital camera pictures and VIERA Link HDMI control over compatible equipment are just more proof you don't have to spend a lot to get that proper home theater started. (Also available in 46-, 50-, 54-, 68- and 65-inch sizes)
From $745 - Shop for Panasonic TC-P42S1
Insignia LBD32X-10A - This HDTV may be a surprise on our list, but the combination of a cheapo LCD and Blu-ray player in an all-in-one package creates the no configuration needed setup that keeps on giving. One delivery of the LBD32X by Santa then you can come through with Blu-ray discs from now until the next format war -- and at a penny under six bills there will be cash left over to grab a few movies right away.
$599 - Best Buy
Sharp's LC-52LE700UN - Know someone concerned about the environment? Squelch any arguments over whether the Yule Log is contributing to climate change by nudging them closer to the box holding a LC-52LE700UN - its LED backlighting means that despite merely average picture quality and price, you'll be watching a super sized flat-panel with well above average energy efficiency. There's even simple web widgets and tech support via AQUOS Net while the wide viewing angles mean you can keep an eye on the action and the electricity meter all at once.
From $1,565 - Shop for Sharp AQUOS LC-52LE700UN
Samsung UN46B7000 - Super slim, energy efficient LCDs are all the rage this holiday season and with Yahoo! Widgets, DLNA streaming, nice picture quality (once calibrated), a backlit remote and optional WiFi the 1.2-inch thick B7000 series has enough style for anyone on your gift list. It's a little pricier than other HDTVs in this segment based on size, and we've still got some issues with the slow Widget menus, but sliding Samsung's baby under the tree is worth it to stay on the cutting edge, and its skinny edge lit LED frame should be a good reminder. (Also available in 40- and 55-inch sizes)
From $1,500 - Shop for Samsung UN46B7000
Panasonic TC-P50V10 - For some, there's no LCD available that will satisfy the need for accurate colors and deep blacks, and with the KURO reduced to a few models still bouncing around warehouses, Panasonic's V10 series has filled the void. While the lower end G10 series is also an option, these screens feature both the one step calibration ease of a THX mode or enough manual calibration settings for even the most obsessive calibrators to dive in and get the most of its deep, inky blacks and 96Hz image processing for some of the best Blu-ray movie playback available. Just check the reviews, if a plasma fan is the target, this is a guaranteed hit. (Also available in 54-, 58- and 65-inch sizes)
From $1,800 - Shop for Panasonic TC-P50V10
Samsung UN55B8500 - Why compromise? With LED backlighting (better than its edge lit B7000 counterpart) high quality image processing and the deepest black levels you'll see on an LCD this one earns its spot as the king of Samsung's line. The UN55B8500 even has an RF remote for those times when line-of-sight is just out of the question and Yahoo! Widgets support means there's plenty of video on-demand, Twitter and other interactivity to be had. Aside from being beautiful, it's slim, energy efficient and most importantly expensive, but we're sure you can find someone deserving. (Also available in a 46-inch size)
From $3,200 - Shop for Samsung UN55B8500
LG 55LH90 - For another local dimming LED backlit solution beyond the Samsung above, LG's THX certified LH90 series brings high quality color reproduction attached to a cheaper form of 240Hz motion processing for those looking to save a few bucks. Of course that slick glossy bezel design will keep your thriftiness a secret -- pack in a USB stick loaded with 1080p DivX rips and no one will ask any questions. (Also available in 42- and 47-inch sizes)
From $2,499 - Shop for LG 55LH90
Panasonic TC-P54Z1 - If you need to go big, the Z1 is a perfect choice, it strips all those unnecessary wires that other HDTVs use to connect to things and relegates them to separate box located elsewhere in the room; simply wall mount this 1-inch thick beauty, plug in the power and enjoy. How is it done? You can explain all the tech involved in SiBeam's WirelessHD... or not, for this price, it's totally your call.
From $3,999 - Shop for Panasonic TC-P54Z1
Mitsubishi LT-52249 - Buying for someone who can't or won't get a proper surround sound system? Those 18 speakers along the bottom of Mitsubishi's LT-52249 add up to a huge advantage in sound quality over other flat panels while ISF calibration options and 1080p movie streaming from VUDU make sure what they're looking at is also up to par. (Also available in a 46-inch size)
From $2,323 - Shop for Mitsubishi LT-52249
Stocking stuffer
From $830 - Shop for VIZIO SV421XVT
From $745 - Shop for Panasonic TC-P42S1
$599 - Best Buy
Oh, you shouldn't have
From $1,565 - Shop for Sharp AQUOS LC-52LE700UN
From $1,500 - Shop for Samsung UN46B7000
From $1,800 - Shop for Panasonic TC-P50V10
We can't afford the rent now, can we?
From $3,200 - Shop for Samsung UN55B8500
From $2,499 - Shop for LG 55LH90
From $3,999 - Shop for Panasonic TC-P54Z1
From $2,323 - Shop for Mitsubishi LT-52249
Some more items in the 500 dollar range would have been appreciated guys! $830 isnt exactly a stocking stuffer...
@(Unverified) I'm pretty sure the term stocking stuffer as it applies here means lower end. Not cheap but lower end.
@werty1432k Oh know, they lower end, its just there some very good tv's under 40 inches in the sub 500- 600 dollar range. So I feel they may have neglected the demographic a bit, But hey if im wrong im wrong!
@(Unverified) agreed
@(Unverified)
If you want to stay < $600, you can compromise on the Panasonic TC-P42S1 model and get the X1 or X14 model instead. Specs are just slightly lower and less inputs as well, but the picture is amazing for the price.
@(Unverified) Check our back to college suggestions from a couple months ago if this is out of your range. IMO, you're probably best off grabbing a larger computer monitor if that's your restriction.
http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/engadgets-back-to-school-guide/
@RichardLawler Thanks for the tip Rich!
I don't think any TV is really cheap enough to be considered a stocking stuffer, especially in this recession. I understand that there are some cheaper options than what was covered here, but I would have to agree with Richard about a large computer monitor being a better value. The extreme low end of the TV market is so low quality that it's not even worth it. If you find a good sale, you can scratch the surface of the midrange without adding very much to the cost. If you want something small, then you can go with a computer monitor.
@CapnShiner actually cnet has an article about great 32inch tv's I am looking for a 32 inch due to the size of my room, i would go bigger but it would be overkill. and i noticed most 32's are under 700 from sony, panasonic etc. and thats for the "top of line" models they make, So there are actually a good amount of good tv's in the 32 inch area.
If anyone wants a link let me know.
@CapnShiner and on my stocking stuffer remark, that was just a joke! obvisously anything more thank like 50 bucks is not a stocking stuffer, I just think from the reading i have done, there is a category of tvs, in the 30-40 inch area fro 400-700 dollars that should have been mentioned.
Either way one mans opinion, and i still think the article was great Just a suggestion, with a side internet humor.
@(Unverified)
The stockings in my house would barely fit a CD, much less a TV worth watching. And I'm talking about size AND price here.
Panasonic TC-P54Z1, imagine mounting that on your wall. It would look amazing, like part of the wall.
I was expecting maybe one projector to be somewhere in the range? Yes, they're seldom used in normal homes but they really give a cinematic experience.
@(Unverified) I 2nd this request, I'm hoping to pick up a projector in the next 6 months and could use some direction.
@(Unverified) You may be right, but projector != television. This gift guide is limited to actual televisions. That's probably why projectors were left out.
How about a sub-32" model? Most at 26" and lower are garbage with poor contrast ratio and no streaming capabilities. Aren't there any GOOD sub-32 inchers (excluding the bajillion-dollar OLED from Sony)?
I picked up an Panasonic TC-P54S1 for $979 at Sears last week. I would consider myself a AV enthusiast and so far I have been very happy with the Plasma. I was about to pull the trigger on a 46" Sony XBR9 but for 8" more and $600 less I bought the plasma on the spot.
I broke it in with D-Nice slides and some HDTV. The blacks are very good and after some tweaking the colors are very natural. I may get into the service menu for some deep tweaking but so far so good. A great buy for 54" of TV goodness out the door.
@errorcooled
Error - I got the same deal. I havent picked mine up yet, but glad to hear you have good reviews so far. Do you have the links/info for the D-nice slides, etc? Thanks
@barryfitz
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1128487 - for break in talk
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1127194 - for talk specific to the S1 series
Enjoy the tv!
@errorcooled I bought the 65S1 as well. It is being delivered soon. Couldnt pass up the deal. I went with Plasma over the LED/LCD's because of the size problems. Go big.
I would love to see a Kuro Elite side by side with a Z1 and watch them duke it out
Got my HD flat panel on black Friday. I am not feeling pangs of regret though.
Pioneer I miss you so much!!
I'm still happy with my 50" SXRD Sony slim rear-projection set that I bought about 3 years ago. Funny thing is, it has a better picture than a lot of sets that are coming out even today. It's a shame that Sony had to discontinue this superior picture quality technology in favor of slim sets just because people want to buy a TV that they can hang on a wall.
The only thing that I've seen that is comparable in Sony's other sets is in their XBR 8 and 9 series, all of which are 3-4 times the price for a comparable sized set. In terms of other manufacturers, only Pioneer had them beat with their KURO lineup. It's a shame that they (Pioneer), too don't make them any more!
I've enjoyed most of these Gift Guides, but I think you guys really missed the mark on this one.
There are still a ton of bedrooms/playrooms/dormrooms/etc out there that are in desperate need of some HD-Lovin' but are too small for 42-in TVs.
I know there are a ton of A-V sites our there that specialize in TVs, but I usually trust Engadget's opinion and was looking forward to seeing something a little smaller and more affordable especially in the "Stocking Stuff" category (the Insignia was great, but I don't EVER buy combo TVs).
Maybe you are planning on lumping in some smaller TVs in the computer monitor Guide?
@jr40505
I second this. We're looking to pick up a small tv for our bedroom and I was really hoping for some advice in this area.
No mention of the Philips 21:9?
@MikeWard1701
Not available state-side, thankfully
Of course, if you want to
a) pay more to watch less (most content you have is 16:9 and the 21:9 scaling is pathetic),
b) hang a monster on the wall (it reminds you of your grandma's projection tv)
c) love using gadgets that are slower than a brain-dead koala
you can opt to get it from the other side of the atlantic.
On the positive side, you can use the trip to hang out in one of those famed coffee shops in amsterdam. Mind you, you wouldn't visit a TV shop otherwise :-)
@(Unverified)
My apologies, I wasn't aware it's not available across the pond.
Personally I'm not a fan of it, if I had that kind of money to spend I'd go with the UN55B8500.
Just thought it would have made an interesting one for the "We can't afford the rent now can we?" section.
I just got the TC-P42G15 by panasonic and let me say it looks great. i got it from ABT electronics(local ehre to chicago but they ship everywhere) for $860 and it was worth every penny. THX mode is great for movies(blu ray looks awesome at 24p) and gaming is superb. Great viewing angle, great blacks, no blurr, great TV
I personally think that at least one of the Samsung PN50 models should've been in the budget section.
You can get a PN50B450 for $850, which gives you a 50" 720p plasma, or a PN50B530 for $900, for a 50" 1080p plasma.
It's at least on par with the P50S1.
@jhoff80 I personally would not even consider anything that won't do 1080p and I am thinking the Engadget staff might feel the same way. For a screen smaller than 32" and/or a secondary TV it might be ok because I think cable, satellite, Netflix, etc. are all 720p at most for their HD content. The only content I know is 1080p would be Blu-Ray. This will likely change some day and I would rather spend more now on a 1080p TV than have to replace a 720p TV later.
@CapnShiner
It depends 100% on how far away you are from the set. When I bought my 50" Panny I was lucky enough to see the 720 and 1080 side by side playing the same feed at Fry's. I stepped back 9' and could NOT tell a difference in pic quality, no matter how hard I looked.
I snagged an Insignia 42" plasma (NS-P42Q10A) on black Friday, and let me tell you, it is probably one of the best buys I have ever gotten. The picture is amazing, and the prize was remarkable.
Just another voice adding to the others that it would have been nice to have a few recommendations in the
Just another voice adding to the others that it would have been nice to have a few recommendations in the sub $500 range. I am trying to find a nice 37" - 42" for my fathers bedroom.
Any chance of an update before next weekend?
@dbridges If you want a nice one, spend a couple more bucks.
@RichardLawler Totally uncalled for sir. I'm on a set budget and cannot afford to throw my money around as frivolously as other people. I was asking for advice from the editors and reviewers, not you.
Please be a little more respectful next time when you do not know the circumstances of someones situation.
@dbridges If you can't afford something nice right now, then get something affordable or keep saving, but you can't get "nice" at that size unless you spend a little more.
@dbridges FYI, Richard Lawler is an editor. He wrote this post. Notice how the rate buttons are missing from his replies.
Sounds like the editor is a tad biased toward high end units. These are tough economic times. Show some sensitivity toward those of more limited means. A review of the best you can get for a lower price range would be more relevant and helpful to the majority of consumers. We know Sub $500 means sacrificing some features and quality, but clearly there are a few gems/exceptions out there that would worth mentioning. For instance Vizio has been improving their quality/reliability and a newer company called Auria is pushing the envelope for quality at a low price. I use an Auria 24" 1080p HDTV as a second monitor for my PC and television that currently costs $270 including shipping at NewEgg. It has operated trouble free and the picture quality rivals some of the larger major brand name HDTVs I have seen.
Oops meant for this reply to follow this thread:
Oh I should have added I agree about the 37-42 inch range in the editor's comment. The prices just haven't come down much in that size range. If you find one under $500 odds are it is 720p or a refurb. 32 inch is your best bet if you are buying now given your budget. Be patient, the prices will drop more in the next year. They have already come a long way since the introduction of HDTV and flat panels.
I got a Samsung PN50b650 plasma last month for $980 online. This is an incredible television with a ton of features and great picture quality for the money. It is 50" and 1080p, 24p modes, has internet widgets, and even DLNA sharing from computers, etc., as well as from USB ports. The black levels are very good and comparable to the better Panasonic plasmas, and the colors in movie mode are suppose to be about as good as you can get period. I am really happy with this TV and think I bought the best 50" set you can get really when it comes to both picture quality and features, and did it for under a thousand.
@TimeZone I hate to say it but wait 2 years and you'll wish you never bought a Samsung Plasma. I got one in November of 2006 and the TV started blacking out this past summer. Out of nowhere the picture just goes. I've heard from other Samsung plasma owners who've experienced this also. It even had burn protection which didn't work at all, in less than a year I could see burning on the screen. Hopefully you don't have any of the problems I did since the technology is improving every year.
Cheers
@KingKhufu777
Well, hope I don't have those problems, has been a great TV so far. Sorry for the trouble you've had. Just for peace of mind, I do plan on getting a Mack extended 5 year In-Home warranty. Saw this available for only about $110. Seems like a good idea as I know plasmas can be expensive to fix.. I am also fairly attentive to not show static images too much or shows that don't fill the screen. If I do I follow it up with something that does fill the screen. Had the TV only a month and can tell that it doesn't get image retention as easily as when I just got it, and it was never horrible really. I still notice some now and then on a back screen, but it quickly goes away. Don't have any burn-in.. Feel like the image retention should become less and less as the TV ages. Think the colors on this TV are beautiful in movie mode and have read and agree that it has a more real natural look to the picture than many other HDTV's that have a more digital look, including Panasonic plasmas.
don't get a samsung or philips if you have fios, the hdmi signal cuts out all the time (i have a philips and the verizon rep said it also happens with samsungs) :(
No Sony TVs on the list? The KDL32XBR9 is one of the nicest 32 inches on the market. And depending on where you go, you can find a really good deal on a W-series 5100, a Z-series 5100, and even slightly older XBR6 and XBR7 models.
And, of course, if you want what could possibly be the best LCD TV on the market, you can't look past the XBR8.
@Zeke However, I will tell you that some review sites have it with a slightly darker picture. If that doesn't bother you or the higher price, then this TV is for you. Look on the bright side, at least Sony IS known for the reliability when it comes to HDTVs, and I would highly recommend them to whoever is looking for a great TV. - BLUEBOY
I bought that Panasonic 42" Plasma on Black Friday. It's absolutely fantastic!
Vizio has a highly rated 32" HDTV with full 1080p resolution (1080x1920) that is currently selling around 400-500 dollars. The model number is VL320M. Looks like the best price is at Dell currently for $389. http://www.shopping.com/xPO-Vizio-VL320M I ordered mine from Target for $399 and this included shipping, however, they are out of stock at this time. Target has 19 reviews mostly 5 star and not one negative review with the exception of one who reviewed a different model.