Plasma TVs: Expert and User Reviews

Our AssessmentCNET continues to review a good number of plasma TVs. This list names top performers and value picks. Reports aren't as detailed as those on some other sites, but the essentials are covered in a way that doesn't overwhelm readers who are less tech-savvy. Sets in Samsung's PND8000 and PND7000 series are the top-rated plasma TVs -- and the top-rated TVs using any technology -- with the less expensive PND7000 earning Editors' Choice accolades. The site actually gives the Panasonic TC-PVT30 series sets the edge when it comes to the best overall picture quality, but the gap is very small. The Panasonic TC-PST30 series is applauded for both picture quality and value. The LG PZ950 series also makes the list, but picture quality is said to fall short of similarly priced plasma TVs.

Our AssessmentThe technically obsessed will appreciate the highly detailed, well illustrated reports here. Testing is extensive and well documented. Comparisons to competing sets are often made. Judgments are unflinching, and essentially no plasma TV emerges unscathed. That said, the Samsung PN59D7000 is called a "stunning, high-end plasma TV." Though some issues are uncovered, the Panasonic TC-P55VT30 emerges as "a really great TV, in most regards." The Samsung PN51D6500 draws kudos as a good performer and a great deal.

Our AssessmentThis site isn't the slickest around, but the reports seem unbiased and are clearly backed by appropriate testing. One nice feature is information on setting user controls to obtain top picture quality. All plasma TVs receive a rating, though a chart that compares them would be more useful if it didn't include so many discontinued models. Sets in Samsung's PND8000 and PND7000 series score highest. The Panasonic TC-P50GT30 also does well and is called "a very good solid value" especially considering the picture quality and features.

Our AssessmentLongtime consumer-electronics journalist Gary Merson blogs about everything in the realm of high definition. Reviews are relatively rare, and finding them can sometimes be a challenge. In any event, reviews here are extremely thorough and backed by well-documented testing. So far, Merson has only reviewed one 2011 plasma TV, the Panasonic TC-P50ST30. Performance, including 3D performance, is excellent, as is value. That leads Merson to say, "The TC-P50ST30 should be the short list of HDTVs you consider."

Our AssessmentThe Panasonic TC-P50ST30 is the only plasma TV reviewed here so far, but it scores highly and earns the site's The Biggie Award. Picture quality is impressive with HD content. Blacks in particular are noteworthy. Color is good as well, though a calibration is needed to get them looking their best. As noted in other reviews, performance suffers a bit in well lit rooms.

Our AssessmentHDTVSolutions.com reviews plasma TVs on occasion in reports that, while not heavy in technical details, still provide a clear impression of how a set should perform. The Panasonic TC-P50GT30 offers a 2D picture that is described as "lush," and Dick De Jong adds "its rendering of 3D Blu-rays is one of the best that I have seen." However, the site's Highly Recommended award goes instead to the Samsung PN51D8000 on the strength of its "reference quality" picture as well as its rich streaming features.

Our AssessmentSound & Vision magazine doesn't review a lot of plasma TVs -- just two so far this year -- but reports here are meaty and testing-based, yet not so buried in technical minutiae to turn off non-videophiles. The LG 50PZ950 can't best the top plasma TVs of all time, but gives them a run for their money and is a better value and performer than most LED TVs. The Panasonic TC-P55VT30 is a step up in style and performance compared to its predecessor, but pricey. Still, it and the LG 50PZ950 earn Certified and Recommended awards.

Our AssessmentThis overview article looks at buying consideration for both plasma and LCD TVs. Patrick Miller says "If you're looking for big and less expensive, plasma is still your best bet -- as long as you're okay with a television set that consumes up to twice as much power as an LED TV of equal size." A link leads to a chart of top 10 HDTVs, including three plasma TV models. Reviews of the individual sets included there are testing-based and balanced, but on the short side.

Our AssessmentThis is a list of favorite plasma televisions compiled by Robert Silva, About.com's guide to home theater. Not every set on this list has been tested by the author, and some of the plasma TVs included have now been discontinued. However, you'll also find a fairly well done report on the Panasonic TC-P50GT30, which draws a qualified recommendation despite some minor bobbles. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)

Our AssessmentAmazon.com also invites owners to share their experiences with potential buyers. Unfortunately, the listings include many discontinued models, making navigation more difficult than at BestBuy.com, and there are often fewer ratings for a given plasma TV. On the positive side, Amazon.com offers some useful tools, such as a box that contrasts the most helpful critical and complimentary reviews for a set as voted on by site visitors. Panasonic plasma TVs do well, though some sets from other makers get the occasional nod.