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Best HDTVs overall
(Updated May 21, 2013 2:30 AM PDT)
David Katzmaier
Senior editor
We review a lot of TVs here at CNET, but the list below represents only the best. It collects our most highly recommended models arranged in order of overall score, regardless of type, technology, brand, or size. These cumulative ratings indicate which TVs scored highest considering the major areas we rate: design, features, picture quality, and value. We don't expect this list to be enough for everyone, however, so we've also created supplemental lists broken down by technology type, screen size, and picture quality (Best 5). Choose from the lists to the left according to which criteria matter most to you.
On the lists that aren't based on size, the prices represent just one size in the series. Click through to the "Series information" section of the reviews to see other sizes.
Click here for an explanation of how we rate TVs, and check out this chart for an updated, numbers-only ranking of every 2012 TV reviewed by CNET. The 2013 models have just begun shipping, and we'll be adding to these lists as we review them.
Panasonic TC-PST60 series
The midlevel price and outstanding quality of the Panasonic TC-PST60 series make it our strongest TV recommendation ever.
Price: $1,229.00 - $1,799.00 (check prices)
4 stars
Read full review 
Samsung PNE6500 series
The Samsung E6500 series is an excellent television that offers classy looks, outstanding picture quality, and a great price.
Price: $1,590.00 - $1,999.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Panasonic TC-PVT60 series
The Panasonic VT60 has one of the best pictures of any TV we've ever reviewed, and matches the best-ever in dark rooms.
Price: $2,195.00 - $2,999.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Panasonic TC-PS60 series
The Panasonic TC-PS60 plasma TV's low price, high-end picture quality, and bare-bones Smarts make it one of the best values we've ever seen.
Price: $695.00 - $967.16 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Panasonic TC-PZT60 series
For those who can afford it, the Panasonic TC-PZT60 comes closer than any TV yet to picture-quality perfection.
Price: $3,499.98 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Samsung PNF8500 series
Samsung's best-performing TV ever, the PNF8500 series pushes the plasma picture quality envelope, especially in bright rooms.
Price: $2,239.00 - $2,899.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Sony KDL-HX850 series
The Sony HX850 is a smart-looking Smart TV with sparkling picture quality, making it a front-runner for plasma-phobic videophiles.
Price: $1,815.00 - $2,799.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Vizio E320i-A0
For people seeking integrated Smart features, the Vizio E320i-A0 is the strongest value we've seen yet among 32-inch TVs.
Price: $282.90 - $288.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Vizio E1i-A3 series
The Vizio E1i-A3 series is the best value yet among big-screen LED TVs.
Price: $998.00 - $1,280.85 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Samsung PNE450 series
The Samsung E450 series plasma may not be perfect, but you won't find another TV that performs this well for this low a price.
Price: $525.00 - $529.88 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Sharp LC-LE650U series
The Sharp LE650 series sets the big-screen LCD TV value bar high with very good picture quality for the price.
Price: $1,120.00 - $1,499.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review