RCA 46LA45RQ

With all the hubbub over Internet access and 3D, it's important to remember that lots of families just want a nice, big and, most of all, affordable screen on which to watch everyday TV programming. If that describes you, the 46-inch RCA 46LA45RQ is a no-frills option that bears consideration.

Value is this LCD TV's biggest plus. Picture quality can't stand up to better sets, but as long as you are not the type who obsesses over technically perfect colors or the deepest blacks, the TV is capable of producing pleasing images. The resolution is 1080p, and connectivity is fine for better than basic home-theater setups, but otherwise you won't find much on the features front. The 42-inch RCA 42LA45RQ (*Est. $450) offers similar specifications and features and is cheaper still. If you want a more feature-rich TV set with a little better picture quality, the 47-inch Vizio E3D470VX (*Est. $800) is one candidate. Though somewhat more expensive, it includes passive 3D and great Internet features.

Professional reviewers almost never report on basic TVs like this one. However, many users have weighed in. Walmart.com and BestBuy.com are the best sites to see those reviews.