Best TVs of 2012

Technology review website S21 has announced the results of its Best TV Awards for 2012. S21 is based in the United Kingdom so not all makes and models are available in South Africa.

Awards were made for the five most popular screen sizes, ranging from 32 inches up to 50 inches. The winner for each category was selected by taking into account price, picture quality in 2D and 3D, audio quality, Smart TV functionality, connectivity and design.

The winner of the 32 inch category was the Samsung UE32EH6030, a budget LED-backlit TV offering excellent picture quality, 3D capability and an attractive design.

In the very competitive 40 inch category, the winner was the Sony KDL-40HX853, with its highly distinctive Monolithic design and integrated soundbar marking this 3D LED edgelit TV as special.

The LG 42LM670T was selected as the best TV in the 42 inch category. This LED TV was singled out because of its stunning Cinema Screen design, Smart TV functionality and outstanding picture quality.

Another LG LED television won the 47 inch category the LG 47LM760T, a truly amazing 3D TV with outstanding picture quality and general all-round excellence.

Finally, the award for the 50 inch category was taken by a plasma TV. The Panasonic TX-P50ST50B delivers truly exceptional picture quality in both 2D and 3D.

Steve Morris, Managing Editor, S21.com comments: ‚”Choosing a flatscreen TV from the huge range of LCD, LED and plasma models on offer is a daunting task for the consumer, especially with manufacturers indulging in the use of as much confusing jargon as possible. It isn’t surprising that most consumers end up choosing a model that simply looks stylish on the shelves and has a bright, colourful display. Factors like picture quality, audio and connectivity are hard to assess, and that’s why it’s so important to read expert reviews. We hope that these awards will help to steer buyers in the right direction and equip them to make the best decisions about how they spend their money.

‚”In 2012, we’ve seen advances in Smart TV capability, even in relatively inexpensive models. Prices are increasingly competitive, especially in the 40-42 inch sweet spot. We’ve been particularly impressed by LG’s LED televisions, delivering low power consumption, high picture quality in 2D and also in 3D thanks to the use of passive 3D technology in preference to active shutter 3D. At the high end, Panasonic continues to deliver the ultimate plasma TV experience, although Samsung is very close behind.‚”

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