The top 2011 HD TV models.

Panasonic Viera TC-PV50VT25

The Panasonic Viera TC-PV50VT25 is one of a line of televisions that offers not only full HD resolution but also 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and 600Hz full motion for colorful pictures and smooth movement.

It can provide 3D viewing as well as access to internet content from Netflix movie streaming to Pandora Radio. Another interesting feature however is access to video calling with Skype.

The Good: Superior black-level performance and excellent shadow detail; accurate primary colors in THX mode; great color saturation;
effective antireflective screen; reproduces 1080p/24 cadence properly; VieraCast provides access to select Internet services and improved customization; solid 3D picture quality; includes 3D glasses.

The Bad: Relatively expensive; last year’s Panasonic plasmas lost black-level performance over relatively short periods of time; nonadjustable grayscale in THX mode; some artifacts in 1080p/24 mode; fewer streaming services and apps than the competition; uses more power than LCDs and newer plasmas.

Sony Bravia KDL-52EX700

LED backlit screens are the newer form of LCD TVs. They are prized for their great contrast and their energy savings. The KDL-52EX700 is a fine example.
With 120Hz motion, 1080p resolution, internet connectivity for streaming video, wireless connectivity, and a variety of energy saving features, it can be a great value.

The ambient sensor will make automatic adjustments in brightness based on lighting conditions in the room and the presence sensor will power the screen off if you leave the room for more than 30 minutes.

The Good: Innovative automatic power-off feature saves energy; extremely energy-efficient; matte screen works well in brighter rooms; relatively accurate color; solid Internet services including Netflix, Amazon Video, and numerous niche videos; snappy menu system.

The Bad: Reproduces lighter black levels; darker areas tinged blue; cannot adjust dejudder processing much; less-even screen uniformity; Netflix image quality worse than on other streaming devices.

VIZIO XVT3D554SV

Although Vizio is generally known for it’s value pricing, they wouldn’t have gotten to this level of success without also making some quality merchandise.

This Vizio model offers full array LED backlighting, internet connectivity, 3D viewing, 10,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 1080p resolution, 480Hz smooth motion, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Samsung PN63C7000

Plasma TVs are among the best when it comes to 3D viewing. This model offers 3D viewing, internet connectivity, 600Hz subfield motion, 1080p resolution, a gaming mode, and it exceeds energy star standards.

The Good: Excellent black-level performance; accurate color overall; numerous picture controls and tweaks; sleek styling with inch-deep panel; superb streaming and widget content via well-integrated Apps platform; solid 3D picture quality.

The Bad: Cannot properly handle 1080p/24 sources; less efficient than LCD models; duplication of Apps and widgets can be confusing; does not include 3D glasses.