Best HDTVs overall
We review a lot of high-definition televisions here at CNET, but the list below represents the best of the best. It collects our current highest-recommended televisions arranged in order of overall score, regardless of TV type, technology, brand, or size. These cumulative ratings are the best indication of which HDTVs scored highest in each of the three major areas we rate: design, features, and performance. We don't expect this list to apply to everyone, however, so we've also created supplemental lists broken down by technology type and screen size. Choose from the lists to the left according to which criteria matter most to you.
Pioneer PRO-111FD
9.1 Spectacular (reviewed 9/30/08)
The Pioneer Elite PRO-111FD represents the pinnacle of flat-panel HDTV picture quality.
Read review of the Pioneer PRO-111FD
Panasonic TH-50PZ800U
8.7 Excellent (reviewed 5/23/08)
With the accuracy of its THX mode and great black-level performance, the Panasonic TH-50PZ800U is one of the best-performing HDTVs available.
Read review of the Panasonic TH-50PZ800U
Sony KDL-55XBR8
8.7 Excellent (reviewed 10/16/08)
Although not quite the best HDTV we've tested so far, the wallet-busting, LED-powered Sony KDL-55XBR8 comes mighty close.
Read review of the Sony KDL-55XBR8
Pioneer PDP-5020FD
8.4 Excellent (reviewed 7/18/08)
Best-in-class black levels and excellent all-around performance places the Pioneer PDP-5020FD near the top of the picture quality heap, but it will cost you.
Read review of the Pioneer PDP-5020FD
Samsung LN46A950
8.3 Excellent (reviewed 9/10/08)
Samsung's LED-backlit LN46A950 represents the peak of flat-panel LCD TV performance and picture quality, with a price to match.
Read review of the Samsung LN46A950
Panasonic TH-50PZ850U
8.3 Excellent (reviewed 7/1/08)
The Panasonic TH-50PZ850U's color accuracy issues prevent it from topping the high-end plasma TV heap, but excellent picture quality and unique interactive features maintain its appeal.
Read review of the Panasonic TH-50PZ850U
Samsung LN52A650
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 4/29/08)
If you don't mind its red frame, the Samsung LN52A650 LCD TV will reward you with a massive feature set and excellent picture quality.
Read review of the Samsung LN52A650
Sony KDL-52XBR7
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 12/9/08)
The 240Hz Sony KDL-52XBR7 breaks new refresh rate ground, but for most buyers the extra Hz won't be worth the high price.
Read review of the Sony KDL-52XBR7
Sony KDL-52XBR6
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 10/8/08)
The 52-inch Sony KDL-52XBR6 LCD is a bit too expensive for the level of picture quality it delivers, but its styling and best-in-class black levels help its case.
Read review of the Sony KDL-52XBR6
Samsung HL61A750
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 7/18/08)
Samsung's HL61A750 61-inch rear-projection HDTV delivers excellent overall picture quality, and, compared to flat-panel options, it's a real bargain.
Read review of the Samsung HL61A750
Samsung PN50A650
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 8/27/08)
Although its black levels aren't the deepest, accurate color and a red frame still distinguish the Samsung PN50A650 from the pack.
Read review of the Samsung PN50A650
Samsung PN50A550
8.0 Excellent (reviewed 4/14/08)
Accurate color helps set apart the excellent picture quality of the Samsung PN50A550 50-inch plasma TV.
Read review of the Samsung PN50A550
Panasonic TH-50PF11UK
7.7 Very good (reviewed 11/25/08)
Although expensive and light on features compared with consumer sets, Panasonic's TH-50PF11UK 50-inch professional plasma monitor delivers pro-level picture quality.
Read review of the Panasonic TH-50PF11UK
Samsung LN46A550
7.7 Very good (reviewed 8/8/08)
The midlevel Samsung LN46A550 LCD TV strikes an excellent balance between price and performance.
Read review of the Samsung LN46A550
Panasonic TH-46PZ85U
7.7 Very good (reviewed 4/17/08)
A couple of issues keep its picture out of the top tier, but excellent black-level performance still makes the Panasonic TH-46PZ85U plasma TV stand out from the pack.
Read review of the Panasonic TH-46PZ85U
Samsung LN46A750
7.7 Very good (reviewed 6/26/08)
The excellent picture quality and unique interactive features of the Samsung LN46A750 flat-panel LCD TV aren't quite worth the higher price tag.
Read review of the Samsung LN46A750
Sony KDL-46Z4100
7.6 Very good (reviewed 8/8/08)
Sony's well-featured, smartly styled KDL-46Z4100 performs well enough, but its picture doesn't match that of the best LCD TVs.
Read review of the Sony KDL-46Z4100
LG 50PG60
7.6 Very good (reviewed 6/12/08)
Although its THX mode isn't as accurate as we'd like to see, the LG 50PG60 50-inch plasma TV still delivers a good picture.
Read review of the LG 50PG60
Vizio SV470XVT
7.3 Very good (reviewed 8/21/08)
The Vizio SV470XVT represents a viable alternative for LCD TV bargain hunters who want 120Hz processing.
Read review of the Vizio SV470XVT
Hitachi UT37X902
7.3 Very good (reviewed 11/14/08)
A high price and a quirky, optional AV Center lessen the appeal, but the stunning design of the ultrathin Hitachi UT37X902 will draw buyers who want the ultimate in flat-panel chic.
Read review of the Hitachi UT37X902
Samsung PN63A760
7.2 Very good (reviewed 10/31/08)
The Samsung PN63A760 brings a huge feature set and enormously different styling, but its picture quality fell short of the tough competition.
Read review of the Samsung PN63A760