(Nov 03, 2009)
David Katzmaier
Senior Editor
The first kind of flat-panel TV to hit the market more than ten years ago, plasma displays have come a long way since then. Most notably they're much more durable now, and the burn-in bugaboo is pretty much a thing of the past. Plasmas are not generally available in sizes under 42 inches, and their picture quality in the best models still out-performs the best LCDs--although the gap is closing. On the flipside, they're much less-efficient than LCD. Check out our plasma vs. LCD comparison for more.
Panasonic TC-PV10 series
The high-end Panasonic TC-PV10 series of plasmas delivers the overall best picture quality of any flat-panel HDTV we've tested so far this year.
Price: $1,945.00 - $2,099.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 8, 2009
Excellent
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Samsung PN50B860
With picture quality that matches its less expensive brother but not the best of the stiff competition, the main appeal of the Samsung PNB850/860 series is based on its sleek, ultrathin panel.
Price: $1,569.00 - $1,679.99 (check prices)
Review date: Aug 25, 2009
Excellent
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Samsung PNB650 series
Samsung's PNB650 series can't quite match the best plasmas on the market, but it comes close enough to offer a viable alternative.
Price: $1,119.00 - $1,178.18 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 12, 2009
Excellent
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Panasonic TC-PG10 series
With excellent picture quality marred by only a couple of flaws, the Panasonic TC-PG10 series sits near the head of the class of 2009.
Price: $1,199.88 - $1,999.99 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 3, 2009
Excellent
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LG PS80 series
Despite image quality a notch or two below competing plasmas, the LG PS80 series will win over shoppers who prioritize built-in video streaming.
Price: $1,029.99 - $1,699.99 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 2, 2009
Very good
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Panasonic TC-PS1 series
With deep black levels and generally excellent picture quality, the more eco-friendly Panasonic TC-PS1 series of plasma TVs strikes an appealing price/performance balance.
Price: $971.00 - $1,399.98 (check prices)
Review date: Mar 11, 2009
Very good
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Panasonic TH-50PF11UK
Although expensive and light on features compared with consumer sets, Panasonic's TH-50PF11UK 50-inch professional plasma monitor delivers pro-level picture quality.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Nov 25, 2008
Very good
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