Vizio VF552XVT

The 55-inch Vizio VF552XVT is being hailed as a TV with great features at a great price. Though some TVs, such as LG's 46-inch 46LE8500, have slightly better picture quality -- namely deeper blacks -- most critics say this Vizio offers some notable pluses. One is relative freedom from "blooming" -- a common artifact in LED backlit TVs such as this one. Another is better-than-average screen uniformity, also a shortfall of many LED-lit LCD TVs.

In terms of features, 3D isn't part of the package, but the VF552XVT's suite of Internet features draws compliments for having lots of content and for being easy to use. Wi-Fi connectivity is also built in. The remote is unusual in that it uses both infrared and Bluetooth for communication, and includes a slide-out keyboard that makes using Internet features much easier. However, some user reviews complain that the remote is not problem-free and that it feels cheap. One virtue that every reviewer agrees on is that the VF552XVT is a terrific value, with performance and features that far outstrip its price. A 47-inch version of the TV is available. The Vizio SV472XVT (Discontinued) has fewer inputs -- most notably one less HDMI connection -- and different styling, but reports say that performance and features are otherwise identical.

The 55-inch Vizio VF552XVT gets a fair amount of attention from reviewers. The most helpful review is at CNET, which provides a testing-based report and a good amount of discussion. ConsumerReports.org doesn't review this TV, but does report on the 47-inch version of the series, which performs similarly. User reviews are available at Amazon.com and Walmart.com.