Best HDTVs

Best Gaming HDTV:

Choosing a new HDTV suitable for gaming is complicated, but it isn't as difficult as it was a few years back. Newer HDTVs have drastically improved performance, including faster image processing and the effect this has on final picture quality. While we won't recommend any specific TV models (as everybody has different tolerances), here are a few things to look for when considering a new HDTV for gaming.

- Input lag is one of the most crucial aspects of selecting a gaming-suitable HDTV. Input lag describes the phenomenon where there is a noticeable delay between when you perform a command on your controller and when it actually happens on-screen. Needless to say, excessive lag can ruin a game and render it nearly (or completely) unplayable. HDTV input lag is usually an issue when attempting to play older game consoles which output in standard definition. This places extra burden on the image processor of the HDTV to convert the standard definition signal to 1080p or 720p, which inevitably takes some time to perform. Most modern TVs can do this very quickly, and can therefore minimize input lag to tolerable levels. Also, most TVs have a separate 'game mode' which promises to reduce or even eliminate input lag through bypassing the picture quality enhancement algorithms. You'll definitely want to test this out for yourself by connecting your favorite game console to an available demo unit at a local store.

- Response time describes the performance of the display itself. The term 'response time' refers to how quickly a certain TV can change from displaying a dark color to a light one and back to dark (usually gray to gray). Slower response times show up in the form of 'blur' and what appear to be 'smeared' images, both of which are not suited for displaying fast-moving images as found in most games. Generally, plasma TVs lead the field in this regard with nearly instant response times, while the fastest current LCD TVs approach 1-2 milliseconds at best. This is not as clear-cut as it seems, however - better LCD TVs can still provide an enjoyable gaming experience with little to no blur.

- The debate between plasma and LCD TVs is especially prominent when it comes to analyzing each for gaming performance. Plasma TVs offer instantaneous response times at the expense of potential image retention or screen burn-in - neither of which are desirable for gaming purposes. LCD TVs have no issues with displaying static images, but choosing one can be trickier due to the varied performance of each panel. Each technology has its advantages, so it's best to familiarize yourself with the quirks of the one you choose to go with.

- 3D gaming is on the rise, with more titles offering 3D compatibility. You'll need a 3D-capable HDTV and the appropriate 3D glasses to enjoy video games in 3D. Each individual game has its own unique 3D properties, but it goes without saying that you'll want to select a 3D TV which can display fast-moving images with minimal crosstalk and distracting artifacts.

Buyer's Guide:

The HDTV market is filled with enough advertising and marketing hubris to make anyone's head spin with confusion. Manufacturers routinely go out of their way to make their products seem more impressive, including puzzling claims such as 'infinite contrast ratio'. Worse still, the TVs on display at local brick & mortar shops usually have the brightness cranked to the max and various settings put to 'Store Mode' to attract potential buyers. Comparing TVs side-by-side at a store will do you no favors unless the sets are calibrated properly and are utilizing equal-quality HD feeds. Even then, TVs will look different in a brightly-lit environment like the sales floor compared to a dimmer, more controlled setting like your living room. Before you commit to buying a new TV, it helps to familiarize yourself with a few terms and specifications to ensure that you're getting exactly what you want.

Picture Quality

Not a single HDTV buyer will want a TV that doesn't offer good picture quality. The simple truth is that high-definition content looks better than standard definition content 100% of the time. If you're upgrading from an older CRT TV, all modern HDTVs will look outstanding provided they are utilizing high-definition feeds. Here are a few things to look for:

- There are multiple HDTV technologies on the market today. The most popular are LCD TVs and Plasma display panels (colloquially known as 'Plasma TVs'). The war between the two for HDTV superiority continues, with each having their own benefits and drawbacks. For more on Plasma vs. LCD, head over to the dedicated section below.

- Don't assume that the way the TV looks in the store will translate to the one that you purchase. If you can, ask an employee or salesperson to connect high-definition material to the TV (usually a Blu-ray movie), then switch the set to its 'Cinema Mode' (or whatever is closest). This will help even the playing field.

- Pick a TV with good color accuracy. While this is hard to distinguish to untrained eyes, it's always a good idea to gather as much information as you can on the model you're considering. A TV with poor color accuracy will display washed-out colors and skin tones which appear orange. A full calibration performed by a certified professional will bring out the best the TV has to offer - 'ChadB' and CNET's David Katzmaier both test TVs after they have been calibrated, and CNET includes the picture settings in their reviews.

- Black levels are a key component to good picture quality. A good TV will be capable of purer blacks which stand in stark contrast to any color in the scene. In a scene with true 'blacks', dark gray tones are undesirable and can detract from the movie watching experience. Some of the better black-level performers include the Sony Bravia XBR-55HX929, Panasonic Viera TC-P55VT30, and the Samsung PN59D7000.

- Screen uniformity is extremely important as well. This boils down to how effectively the TV distributes its backlight. A good TV will have even backlighting across the screen, to the point where it is unnoticeable. A flawed execution will result in spots or patches where the backlight is visibly stronger - this phenomenon is referred to as 'flashlighting' and 'clouding'. Plasma TVs generally have perfect screen uniformity, while LCD TVs can range from excellent to poor depending on the model.

- Manufacturers like to throw around 'Contrast Ratio' numbers to give the impression of superior picture quality. Disregard these completely, as they have absolutely no bearing outside of that manufacturer's products. A simple explanation of 'contrast ratio' is the difference between the brightest image the TV can display and the darkest image the TV can display (black level). You'll sometimes see 'infinite contrast ratio' - this is a marketing attempt, and usually refers to certain technological tricks that higher-performing TVs use to enhance picture quality.

- Finally, not all HDTVs perform well with standard definition content. Don't be surprised if you connect your old DVD player or VCR to your brand new HDTV and the resulting picture isn't crystal-clear. Without getting into too much detail, the 'native resolution' of a new HDTV is far higher than what standard definition devices can output. This means that your TV will try to convert the standard definition 480i signal into 1080p to fill the screen, and the results are not always pretty. High definition content will look fantastic on a high-definition TV, though.

There is an enormous amount of information available about how to judge 'good picture quality', but your personal preference will ultimately determine what looks good to you.

Size

For the best HDTV experience, go for the biggest size your budget and setting will allow. Remember that this is an investment that you will live with for quite some time, and you don't want to be caught out thinking 'I wish I had a bigger screen'.

It is possible to go too big, though. If you live in a small apartment or plan to set the TV up where space is limited, a 65-inch TV may not be the best idea. Amazon has a great article to help you choose the appropriate size screen for your setup.

Resolution

Today's HDTVs come in two resolutions - 720p and 1080p. When broken down, these alphanumeric combinations simply state the resolution and the method in which the pixels are displayed. Here's a brief explanation of each, along with a quick run-down of the less-encountered resolutions among HDTVs today.

- 1080p: This resolution is often referred to as 'Full HD', and represents 1920x1080 pixels displayed on the screen in a 'progressive' format. Each line is resolved during the refresh cycle, leading to a clearer, sharper picture. This is currently the highest resolution available for consumer HDTVs, and is the default resolution for Blu-ray movies and high-definition PS3 games.

- 720p: Like 1080p, 720p is a 'progressive scan' format. The '720p' term actually refers to a range of HD resolutions, with a minimum of 1280x720 pixels from which the name is derived. Though this resolution is usually found amongst entry-level HDTVs today, the lower resolution compared to 1080p is not very noticeable until you get to larger screen sizes (55 inches and above).

- 1080i: Although modern HDTVs do not feature 1080i as a native resolution, this format is still encountered when dealing with HD broadcasts. Older CRT HDTVs also sport a 1080i native resolution, which can lead to some confusion. While the resolution is identical to 1080p (1980x1080 pixels), the 'i' in the name stands for 'interlaced' scan. Without getting into too much technical detail, native 1080i-resolution displays refresh every alternating line (effectively producing 1920x540 pixels per refresh cycle) to show the entire image. Modern displays require image processing (de-interlacing) to display content encoded in this format.

- Standard definition: Older TV formats are almost always considered 'standard definition'. You'll see the term 'enhanced definition' thrown around here and there when referring to '480p', but the current trend is to refer to anything which features a lower resolution than 'high definition' as 'standard definition'. This includes various formats such as 480i and 240p, all of which must be 'upscaled' by modern TVs to be displayed by the native 1080p or 720p resolution screens.

3D

The technology used to bring 3D into the living room is continually evolving, so this area of the HDTV market still has much room to expand and mature. Currently, all 3D-capable displays require viewers to wear special glasses to achieve the 3D effect. There are two different types of 3D displays - active and passive.

Active 3D displays require specific active-shutter glasses - these distinctive glasses sync to the TV using infrared or (in the case of Samsung) Bluetooth. The glasses then block the left and right eye in succession at up to 120 times per second, corresponding to the left-eye and right-eye image on the display. When done properly, this creates an illusion of a 3D image. Active 3D generally offers higher picture quality, but is not without its drawbacks. The glasses must keep in sync with the TV, or the picture can suffer from strange effects. The glasses are also very complex, with batteries that require recharging or replacement every now and then. Perhaps the biggest drawback is the price of extra pairs of glasses - at anywhere from $50 to $190 each, watching 3D with friends and family can get very expensive. Worse still, one manufacturer's glasses will not work with another's TV - you must stay within the brand. If you can put up with these drawbacks, active 3D is still the better option.

Passive 3D is an alternative if you can't stand the disadvantages of active 3D. Instead of using expensive active shutter glasses to display 3D images, passive 3D TVs are equipped with a filter on the screen itself to achieve the effect. Glasses must still be worn, but passive 3D glasses are simple, inexpensive polarized lenses. These passive 3D glasses can be found for as little as $4 a set, and movie theater 3D glasses will work as well. Because there is no syncing required, a single set of 3D glasses will work with any brand TV. Compared to active 3D, though, passive 3D offers softer picture quality. This is due to the inherent design of this technology, which alternates every line of pixels to display images for the left eye and the right eye.

If you're looking for 3D TV recommendations, be sure to check out our Best 3D TV list.

Plasma vs. LCD

In the world of technology, there will always be format wars. Between HDTVs, it's Plasma vs. LCD. Both have their share of advantages and downsides, and both feature rabid fan followings that will stop at nothing to disparage the other side. Ignore the vitriol, and choose what you feel is best. Here's a brief run-down of the two:

- Plasma: Technically called 'plasma display panels', the plasma TV has come a long way since its introduction into the HDTV world. Plasma TVs operate by acting upon phosphors embedded into the panel, and the picture you see through the screen is the light given off by the reaction. This type of display is inherently faster than LCDs, and have similar response times as CRT displays. Plasma TVs also exhibit perfect screen uniformity, and offer superior off-angle viewing. Many videophiles consider plasma TVs by default due to their inherently superior black levels. While plasma TVs still carry a lingering reputation for issues with 'burn-in', modern-day technologies have largely minimized problems that can cause permanent damage to the panel. 'Image retention' is another problem altogether - displaying a static image on the screen (including black letterbox bars) for an extended period of time can leave a 'ghost' of the image. This is temporary, but can still be an annoyance. A little care goes a long way, though - plasma TVs offer life-spans that far exceed CRT TVs, and will provide outstanding picture quality every minute of the way.

Plasma TVs are better suited for environments where the ambient light can be controlled - generally, plasma TVs work better in dark settings where the TV's full output can be observed. Plasma displays are known for their outstanding picture quality - in fact, one of the best HDTVs ever produced was a plasma display panel. The discontinued Pioneer Kuro continues to be a reference-grade HDTV for many professionals despite the newest models approaching 2 years of age. Finally, current plasma TVs tend to be less expensive than similarly-sized LCD TVs. Check out our recommendations for the Best Plasma TVs.

- LCD: The LCD TV is by far the most popular type of television sold today. This TV displays its images by rendering them across a liquid crystal layer, which is then illuminated by the backlight. The LCD TV has come a long way since its introduction, with the most current iterations utilizing LED backlight technology and 'local dimming' for improved black levels and contrast ratio. For the latter, the backlight can dynamically shut itself off in sections as opposed to relying on dark colors on the LCD panel to block out the light. This leads to darker black levels, which manufacturers often cite as 'dynamic contrast ratio'. Not all LCD panels are created equal, however - there are still entry-level designs lingering which use traditional CCFL backlighting. While these models can still offer good picture quality, local-dimming LED LCD TVs will always offer superior black levels by design. Compared to plasma TVs, LCD TVs cannot offer the same wide viewing angles. On the other hand, LCD TVs are capable of much higher light output, which is better for brightly lit environments or where sun glare is a concern. Picture quality is largely a wash between the two - neither design holds a distinct advantage today. Still, there are always some models which outperform the rest. Our recommendations for the Best LCD TVs can be found here.

- There are many variations on the LCD TV. In a nutshell, this type of TV works by rendering images across an LCD panel which is then illuminated from behind. The result is a picture displayed on the screen. Earlier LCD TVs relied on CCFL arrangements to provide a backlight. While this 'traditional' setup can still be found today, manufacturers relegate this layout to the lower-end models. LED backlighting has taken over as the default setup for higher-performance LCD TVs. This has many benefits, including improved picture quality and better energy efficiency. LED backlighting has seen the introduction of a new technology called 'local dimming', where the TV can dynamically dim or turn off the backlight within certain 'zones' that require darker images to be displayed. This feature is usually reserved for high-end sets, however.

Here are the different types of LED backlight arrangements:

- Full-array LED: This backlight setup mimics standard CCFL models, with the LEDs placed directly behind the LCD panel. LCD TVs with full-array LED backlighting exhibit superior screen uniformity, but can also bring about a backlight flaw called 'blooming'. This is when the backlight bleeds out past a bright object and illuminates a black or dark area. Whether this is tolerable or not is up to you - everyone has a personal preference. A few examples of full-array LED backlit TVs are the Sony Bravia XBR-55HX929 and the Vizio XVT3D554SV.

- Edge-lit LED: Sony was the first to introduce this technology, and has since become widespread amongst LED LCD TVs. Rather than placing the LEDs behind the panel, the diodes are moved to the edges of the TV underneath the bezel. A 'light guide' stretches behind the panel instead, and is used to distribute the light in order to display a viewable image. Virtually all of the 'thin' design LCD TVs sold today use edge-lit LED backlighting. While the svelte designs are definitely impressive to look at, the same can't be said about screen uniformity for all models. The backlight of the LG Infinia 55LW5600 is commendably even, but the Samsung UN55D8000 has well-documented issues regarding screen uniformity.

Click here to see our top recommended LED TVs.

Price/Value

As you will no doubt have noticed by now, modern HDTVs encompass a wide range of prices. It's possible to find a good HDTV for under $500, but you're more likely to encounter models on the showroom floor costing over $1000. If money is no object, there are higher-performance TVs available today which sport $3000+ sticker prices. Current HDTVs are far from 'one size fits all', both literally and figuratively. Larger screen sizes are usually more expensive, whether you're looking at plasma TVs or LCD TVs. Also, you'll pay a premium for extra features such as 3D playback, faster refresh rates, local dimming, internet connectivity, and other additions like built-in Skype or an internet browser. Decide which features you absolutely need to have and try to leave out the frills - this will ensure that you get yourself the best deal possible.

One basic rule to adhere to is that if a certain HDTV is cheap, it's like that for a reason. Likewise, it works the other way around. Cheaper HDTVs usually carry compromises or inferior quality, while more expensive models come with more features and better performance. Don't let this be the only guide, however - manufacturers like to charge a premium for their flagship models. The Sony Bravia HX929 is without a doubt one of the best-performing HDTVs on the market today, but its MSRP is high enough to cause anybody to reel in shock. Another infamous example is the Panasonic Viera VT30 - though this model uses a superior panel compared to the step-down offering, not everyone will agree that the slight improvement in picture quality is worth almost $1000 over a similarly-sized GT30. As with anything else, it helps to separate your 'needs' and 'wants'. Try to pick the largest TV that you can afford, but also ensure that it performs well and comes with the features you want.