Choosing LCD Flat-panel HDTV?

Question

I'm looking to buy a LCD flat-panel HDTV but having a difficult time deciding between brands. I was going to go with a 32" Samsung because I had heard good things about it, but then I saw that I could get a 37-42" Dynex/Vizio/Insignia/Westinghouse for about the same price (though not as steller cnet reviews). So my question is, are the aforementioned brands any good or will they just die on me in a month or two? Is the Samsung (or Panasonic, Sony, etc.) name worth the price tag and smaller screen size? Thank you for your help!

Answer 1

The best brands to buy a LCD TV is from either Philips, Sony or Magnavox because of their ratings and they have the best prices andbest warranties. I personally have Magnavox for my Plasma HDTV and I bought it from Target. It;sa 43" for 898.00 this past March, it has a 2-year warranty that it came with (not additional purchase), and it comes in crystal clear and has a very sturdy glass stand that looks nice no matter what you put it on. I actually took mine off to put it on a big TV stand. But it was the best TV purchase I've ever made and I have 5 big screen flat panels in my house.  Hope this helps you.

Answer 2

Yes, the top brand names are worth the extra! And you don't need 1080p resolution in a screen under 46"-50"! 720p/1080i will be just fine for all uses.

In a 32" or 37" LCD, the 2 top brands, for BOTH performance and reliability, are Panasonic Viera and Sony Bravia. A little bit less expensive, but still good quality is Toshiba Regza followed, perhaps, by Sharp Aquos and Samsung. In "name brands," Philips/Magnavox (same mfg) are at the bottom of the list - too many consumer complaints. What ever you get, stay away from the cheap, disposable, third tier sets like Vizio and the other 3 you mention. http://hdguru.com/your-new-disposable-fl...

You might want to go to your local public library and read the 3/08 Consumer Reports HDTV article. Pay attention to the part on reliability.