TV Advice and Guides

Skype-Enabled HDTVs

By Liam McCabe

Vizio Connected LCD TV

Though many manufacturers are introducing web-widgets into their televisions, none seem to be going as far as Vizio. These three new XVT-model LCD TVs are packed with incredible options for streaming Internet content direction to your big screen.

3D TV

3D TV was the talk of the trade show at CES in early January, and this new technology will be coming to a living room near you by the end of 2010. But consumers are skeptical--with good reason. It's a great idea, but the execution needs some work. And really, do we actually need 3D TV? By Liam McCabe

UPDATE: Samsung 9000 Series Preview

Samsung's all-new 9-series was set to replace the high-end A950 class with two stunning, LED-backlit LCD displays. Check out our preview of what ultimately became the 8500 series.

LG SL90 LED TVs

LG has announced two all new LED-backlit LCD televisions, with ultra-thin profiles measuring only 1.15 inches in depth.

LG SL80 LCDs

Three new LCD televisions from LG show that even more traditional technology can look cutting edge.

LG LED TVs

LG has announced four new LED-backlit LCD televisions, the W2286L, W2486L, 55LH95, and 55LH93. Let's take a look at what they offer.

Sharp AQUOS LED TVs

Sharp has gotten on board the LED trend with four new LED LCD flat-panel televisions. These four models use advanced LED backlights to provide brighter, more vivid colors and superior contrasts to older, fluorescent-backlit televisions.

Sony XBR9 LCD TVs

The XBR9 series represents the pinnacle of Sony's LCD televisions for 2009, with high-end panels and innovative connectivity features that make them very appealing.

Vizio M Series

The all-new Vizio M Series has been announced, and it contains a staggering 17 models. We'll help you sort through all the new material and better understand what the M Series offers.

Vizio XVT and E Series

Though primarily known as a low-cost alternative to big-name brands, Vizio is determined to break out as a provider of high-end technology. The XVT line is aimed at bringing them into the big leagues. Bargain hunters shouldn't fret, however, as the E series models show that Vizio hasn't forgotten its roots in impressive, affordable televisions.

LED HDTV

The next wave of LCD televisions are doing away with old technology in favor of LED backlights. These LED backlights have significant advantages over the old backlights, but to the average consumer it may not be so clear. Read on to find out why LED is such a big deal, and whether or not you should shell out the extra cash to get one.

Sony W-Series LCD TV

These three Sony W-Series BRAVIA LCD televisions introduce broadband connectivity while keeping prices reasonable for budget-minded consumers.

Philips 2009 LCD TVs

Six new LCD televisions from Philips put an emphasis on speed and action, with incredibly smooth refresh rates and mind-bogglingly low response time.

Panasonic G10/V10 Plasmas

Panasonic has unleashed a series of Internet-enabled plasma televisions, ready to wow audiences in 2009. The G10, V10, and Z1 series all carry roughly similar features, but present them with striking style and in extraordinarily thin bodies.

Toshiba ZV650 Series Preview

Toshiba is set to release three new LCD flat-panel televisions this April. While they sound nice and all, we can't help but feel underwhelmed by their rather ordinary specifications. It doesn't help that they're pushing a fake 240Hz refresh rate, either.

LG Broadband HDTVs

These LG LCD and Plasma televisions, set to debut in May and June of 2009, will connect directly to the Internet, and allow viewers direct, streaming access to Netflix, YouTube, and other online video sources.

Samsung Luxia LCD TVs

Check out our preview of Samsung's new Luxia line of LCD televisions. These cutting edge models feature LED backlighting, as well as plenty of other exciting features that are sure to make waves in home entertainment this coming year.

Sharp's Blu-Ray LCD TV

This April, Sharp will launch three new LCD televisions that feature integrated Blu-ray disc players, giving consumers the option to purchase a total high-definition package that eliminates the need for a separate set-top box; a nice perk considering TV sets no longer have tops on which to put such boxes anyway.

Great Plasma Picks

The death of Pioneer's KURO plasma line has led to lots of hand-wringing about the impending disappearance of plasma. We don't think plasma is going anywhere anytime soon.

Great LCD TV Bargains

If you're looking for an excellent deal on an outstanding HDTV, you'll want to check out these three superlative models.

New LCD TVs 2009

Take a look at the fascinating new technology that will be included in high-definition televisions in the coming year.

Super Bowl TVs

The big game is coming up in a few short weeks. We've rounded up three great HDTVs that will make your Super Bowl party the talk of the block.

Blu-ray Players

We've selected three excellent Blu-ray disc players, suitable for consumers of all types. Whether you're in search of an inexpensive, budget player, high-end home theater component, or middle-of-the-road device with streaming capabilities, there's a player for you.

5 Blu-Ray Facts

There are a lot of misconceptions about the dominant HD video format, Blu-Ray. Let us clear them up for you.

Blu-Ray Thoughts

Here are some things to consider now that Blu-Ray is the top dog in the high-definition disc arena.

Westinghouse TX-42F450S Review

Take a look at whether this low-cost LCD TV brand can really offer excellent performance at bargain-basement prices. By Michael Patrick Brady

ViewSonic VT2430 Review

The VT2430 is both a computer monitor and an HDTV, but unfortunately doesn't perform very well at either function. By Michael Patrick Brady

Sharp LC-46D65U Review

This is a very square 1080p high-definition television, and though it's rough around the edges we still found some things to like about the Sharp LC-46D65U, even if the remote control is a complete and utter disaster.

HDTV Setup: Placing and Mounting

A brief guide to the feng shui of HDTV installation.

HDTV Setup: Cables

Ports, inputs, slots, jacks...whatever you want to call them, they're not all created equal. Here's a basic guide to all the holes on the back of your HDTV.

Holiday HDTV Deals

Some tips to help you find great deals on HDTVs and HDTV accessories this holiday season.

Best TVs For College Kids

Buyer's Guide: HDTV Upgrade

There's no better time than the present to upgrade your old HDTV set, and we'll help you choose the best one for your needs.

The DTV Switch

Television is going to undergo a significant change on June 12th, 2009. Here's what you need to know about how it is going to affect you, and how you can ensure that you're still able to watch TV on the 18th.

Best Brand Name LCD TV and Plasma TVs

Check out our favorite mainstream, reliable, brand name HDTVs. These TVs have everything you need, no more, no less, and can be found at reasonably affordable prices. These HDTVs are 'just right,' and built to satisfy.

Best Budget HDTV

Check out our top picks for affordable HDTVs that offer extraordinary quality and reasonable prices. Believe it: it's possible to get a great, affordable HDTV without sacrificing too much.

Energy-Efficient HDTVs

An energy-efficient HDTV is the perfect way to both save the environment and save some cash. By reducing the amount of energy your television draws, you'll be putting a major dent in your carbon footprint and doing yourself a service. It's not always easy to determine which HDTVs are the most efficient, but we've got a quick roundup of three interesting models (some new, some coming soon) that will do the trick.

Vizio HDTV

What's the deal with Vizio, the nation's leading manufacturer of LCD TVs? Who are they and where did they come from?

Best Dorm Room HDTVs

Don't go back to college this year without a stylish HDTV in tow.

How to Watch YouTube on Your HDTV

Tired of looking at the tiny YouTube screens on a small computer monitor? Lucky for you there are ways to access your favorite websites on your shiny HDTV all from the comfort of your favorite chair!

HD Video Game Tips

High-definition television is a big-deal if you're into video games. Find out how to get the absolute best performance from your TV and your next-generation console, and avoid the "gaming lag" which can ruin your whole experience.

Best HDTVs For Baseball Season

Believe it or not, baseball season is here. Get your new HDTV before spring training ends, and enjoy this year's pennant races in glorious high-definition.

Five Easy Ways to Improve Your TV's Picture

These simple but easily overlooked steps can help you fine-tune your high-definition viewing experience, and save you from being disappointed with your new HDTV.

Will my new HDTV become obsolete as soon as I buy it?

If you're worried that something better will come along once you spend all that cash on a new TV, you should read this article.

120 Hertz: What's It All About?

This year's marquee specification is a refresh rate of 120 Hertz, which manufacturers claim make movies and video appear smoother on HDTVs. How much is true and how much is hype?

Why You Shouldn't Wait to Buy an HDTV

This holiday season, the price cuts aren't as deep as last year, meaning there's no reason to hesitate. Pick up that HDTV you've had your eye on right away!

Why Shop Online? It's Cheaper!

We took a stroll down to our local big-box stores and compared the prices they offer to the prices you can get online. Far and away, online shopping for HDTVs was much cheaper.

Five Eye-Catching (Affordable) HDTVs

We're always looking out for interesting or impressive HDTVs. These five, big-screen sets each have some truly stunning features, yet won't completely bankrupt you. Take a look at what we've put together.

Five TVs for Small Spaces

Sure, big TVs are nice, but not if it comes in a box bigger than your apartment. If you've got a tiny pad, these five TVs will let you enjoy high-definition magic without crowding you out.

Football HDTVs

We'll show you how to pick an HDTV that will give you the best picture so you can enjoy the upcoming NFL season.

5 Reasons You Shouldn't Shop at a Big Box Store

Best Buy, Circuit City, Wal-Mart… the five things about these big box stores that can radically skew your perception of a TVs quality when you go for an in person look, and what you should do to avoid being a sucker.

Connecting Your Computer to an HDTV

Use your big HDTV as a computer monitor and get the most from both devices!

The End of TV as We Knew It

We'll tell you why February 17th, 2009 is going to be an important day in the history of television, and what you need to do to prepare.

Sizing Up Your TV

Some quick tips that will help you pick the right size for you and your living room.

Standard TV on HD

Don't be disappointed by your new digital HDTV! Here are ways to deal with the real problem that Standard Definition TV looks worse on your new LCD or Plasma than on your old tube TV.

LCD vs. Plasma

A cheat sheet on the important differences between LCD and Plasma.

How To Get HDTV

Are you watching standard definition TV on your new HDTV? Here are a few things many people don't know.

Sony ZX5 LCD TVs

Sony's new ZX5 series LCDs are incredibly thin, thanks to its wireless, 1080p HD video capabilities.

Great HDTV Deals

Cutting-edge features like LED backlights, Internet connectivity, and large displays are within reach, at bargain-basement prices. If you're willing to make a few compromises.

Hitachi XP035 and XP35 Series HDTVs

Sometimes, it's the lesser-known brands that make the biggest strides.