American Express-Savings
(Dec 08, 2009)
David Katzmaier
Senior Editor
It's easy to pick the very best, but when it comes to paying for a new HDTV, sometimes second or third best is all your wallet allows. And sometimes, you just want a TV that's "good enough" and won't drain the children's college funds. That's where this list comes in, which compiles our picks for the best buys among LCD TVs. "Cheap" doesn't necessarily have a bad connotation when you're talking about the models listed below--it just means they cost less than average yet still produce a decent picture.
JVC LT-P300 series
The dock on JVC's LT-P300 series of LCD TV provides a well-designed and easy way to enjoy iPod and iPhone content in the living room.
Price: $469.99 - $769.23 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 23, 2009
Good
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Samsung LNB360 series
Although not as feature-heavy as some models in its class, Samsung's LNB360 series takes the picture quality cake among entry-level LCDs.
Price: $443.09 - $469.99 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 20, 2009
Good
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Sony KDL-L5000 series
Although it costs a tad more than bargain-basement models, the Sony KDL-L5000 series makes up for it with above-basement design and picture quality.
Price: $445.77 - $499.00 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 18, 2009
Good
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Panasonic TC-PLX1 series
Although it's not the best iPod-friendly TV we've tested, the Panasonic TC-LX1 provides a convenient, affordable gateway to access video and music based on your iPod or iPhone.
Price: $395.00 - $599.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 17, 2009
Good
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LG LH20 series
While its light shade of black won't win over bargain home theater sticklers, the LG H20 series' features and adjustability stand out among the entry-level crowd.
Price: $399.97 - $499.95 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 23, 2009
Good
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Vizio VO320E
The hallmark of Vizio's VO320E isn't "Eco," as the name implies--it's decent picture quality for a rock-bottom price.
Price: $389.99 - $411.00 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 16, 2009
Good
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Sharp LC-32D47UT
Albeit saddled with more picture quality hang-ups than most entry-level LCDs, the Sharp LC-32D47UT does deliver on features and energy efficiency.
Price: $444.00 - $449.95 (check prices)
Review date: Dec 4, 2009
OK
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Toshiba AV502U series
While no style maven or template for reference color, the Toshiba AV502U series can do black levels better than most inexpensive LCDs.
Price: $349.99 - $449.00 (check prices)
Review date: Nov 16, 2009
OK
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Westinghouse SK-32H640G series
The inexpensive Westinghouse SK-H640G series is simpler to use and slightly more efficient than the competition, but comes up short in features and picture quality.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Dec 3, 2009
OK
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