CNET editors' buying advice
We have not reviewed this product but here is CNET's buying advice on Flat-panel TVs. This content was chosen based on the features included with this model of flat-panel tv.
HDTVs Earning an Energy Star logo, revised specifications
Beginning November 1, 2008, the EPA and Department of Energy proprietors of the Energy Star logo have established more stringent guidelines for TVs in standby and active modes in an attempt to reduce power consumption. Before you buy your next HDTV, review CNET's comprehensive Quick Guide to TV Power Consumption which includes scores, annual energy cost, wattage used in standby or active modes and much more.
HDTV source resolutions
There are two main HD resolutions in use today by HD broadcasters and other sources: 1080i and 720p. One is not necessarily better than the other; 1080i has more lines and pixels, but 720p is a progressive-scan format that should deliver a smoother image that stays sharper during motion. Another format is also becoming better known: 1080p, which combines the superior resolution of 1080i with the progressive-scan smoothness of 720p. True 1080p content is extremely scarce, however, and none of the major networks have announced 1080p broadcasts. The term 1080p today appears mostly in reference to the displays' native resolution, not the source.
| Source resolution name | Resolution in pixels |
HDTV | Progressive scan | Widescreen | Networks/sources |
| 1080p | 1,920x1,080 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Blu-ray and future HD-DVD players; PlayStation 3 |
| 1080i | 1,920x1,080 | Yes | No | Yes | Includes CBS, NBC, PBS, DiscoveryHD/ Xbox 360 |
| 720p | 1,280x720 | Yes | Yes | Yes | ABC, Fox, ESPNHD |
| 480p | 852x480 | No | Yes | Yes | Fox wide-screen; progressive-scan DVD players |
| Regular TV | Up to 480 lines | No | No | No | All |
Despite the obvious difference in pixel count, 720p and 1080i both look great. In fact, unless you have a very large television and excellent source material, you'll have a hard time telling the difference between any of the HDTV resolutions. It's especially difficult to tell the difference between 1080i and 1080p sources. The difference between DVD and HDTV should be visible on most HDTVs, but especially on smaller sets, it's not nearly as drastic as the difference between standard TV and HDTV.
For more information on resolution, please read HDTV Resolution Explained
NetCast Entertainment Access
Stream movies, TV shows and videos with Netflix, YouTube, Vudu and get up to the minute news, stock information and weather updates directly to your TV without a computer. Simply connect a broadband source through the built-in Ethernet port and grab your remote.* *Internet connection and Netflix subscription required and sold separately.
