Samsung LN40A550

Expert and user reports on Samsung's Series 5 TVs, including the 40-inch LN40A550, are very positive. Many say these LCD TVs strike an excellent balance between performance and value. Black levels are not quite as deep as those on the very best LCD TVs, but they are notably better than on less expensive options. If you have a little more to spend, Samsung's LN40A650 (*Est. $1,230) offers slightly better picture quality and striking styling, plus some high-end extras such as 120Hz image processing. However, its more reflective screen doesn't do as well in well-lit rooms.

ConsumerReports.org offers the best expert review of the Samsung LN40A550, though discussion isn't very deep and you need to be a subscriber to read the editor's opinions. User reviews at sites like Amazon.com are extensive and impressive. Other screen sizes in the series have also done well in reports. For example, the 46-inch Samsung LN46A550 scores highly at PC World for its great image quality and CNET praises its balance of price and performance.