Compare Side-by-Side: Best Affordable HDTV for the Living Room

The Samsung LNB550 series is an affordable HDTV that delivers very good image quality with accurate ... read more

The Samsung LNB550 series is an affordable HDTV that delivers very good image quality with accurate colors and relatively deep black levels. The Samsung LN46B550 comes in a stylish sleek cabinet with a Red Touch of Color. It’s equipped with 4 HDMI inputs, 2 component inputs, 1 composite input, 1 PC input, and 1 USB port. While this set lacks the network connectivity features found on more expensive models, many TV viewers are unlikely to use them anyway. If you’re shopping for an LCD TV on a budget, the B550 series is an excellent choice. This series also includes the 32-inch LN32B550, 37-inch LN37B550, 40-inch LN40B550, and 52-inch LN52B550. read less

Sony’s KLD-52V5100, which is comparable to Samsung’s B550 series, is one of the best val... read more

Sony’s KLD-52V5100, which is comparable to Samsung’s B550 series, is one of the best values among LCD TVs. It offers excellent picture quality with great color but remains affordable compared to other 52” LCD TVs. This set offers plenty of connectivity options with 4 HDMI inputs, component inputs, and a PC input. Overall, it’s an excellent value among LCD TV’s with performance that won’t disappoint. read less

The Panasonic TC-P50X1 delivers very impressive black level performance that matches or exceeds many... read more

The Panasonic TC-P50X1 delivers very impressive black level performance that matches or exceeds many more expensive competitors. While the panel is only 720p, most hi-def content is only available in 720p or 1080i anyway. And if you are watching 1080p content such as Blu-ray movies, it’ll be hard to notice the resolution difference at this screen size. The G10 series still offers better picture quality because of its deeper black levels, THX mode, and superior color accuracy, but the TC-P50X1 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an HDTV under $1000. Considering its price, the only significant downside is that it's far less efficient than comparable LCD TVs. read less

Plasmas offer great bang for the buck, and this set is one of the best values on the market. It's in... read more

Plasmas offer great bang for the buck, and this set is one of the best values on the market. It's incredibly affordable and delivers great picture quality for the price. This set is comparable to the Panasonic X1 series. While it's only 720p resolution, you're unlikely to see the benefits of 1080p at this screen size anyway. Connectivity is sufficient with 3 HDMI inputs, 2 component inputs, and a composite input. Available for under $799 online, this one is a steal. read less

Offering great performance for the price, the Toshiba 40RV525R 40” LCD TV is an excellent entr... read more

Offering great performance for the price, the Toshiba 40RV525R 40” LCD TV is an excellent entry-level HDTV for your living room. While you shouldn’t expect this HDTV to match the picture quality of higher-quality, more expensive flat-panel TVs, it performs well for the money and will satisfy most viewers. With 3 HDMI inputs and 2 Component inputs, there's plenty of inputs for all of your HD equipment. This set features a sleek black frame that will look attractive in any living room or bedroom. If you want a 1080p LCD TV but want to keep the price-tag well under $1,000, the Toshiba 40RV525R is an excellent choice. read less