HDTVs Under $500

Buying an HDTV For Under $500

Yes, you can get some great HDTVs for under $500. I've got mini-reviews of four different HDTV sets, all with screen sizes over 30 inches. Check 'em out!

Sony KDL-32L5000

The Sony KDL-32L5000 is one of the top high definition televisions on the market for the $500 and under price class. This particular model offers a 32 inch screen and a pixel resolution of 1366 X 766. While its resolution is not the best for computer applications, it works just find for television and video presentations.

This model offers many great connectivity options. Its back panel offers two HDMI ports, two component video ports, one VGA-style PC port, one RF input port, one optical digital audio port and one analog audio port. Additional input and output ports are found on the side panel including S-video, HDMI and AV input ports. Some of the best features offered by this model include a theater key which instantly activates presets for a cinema-like experience, a 2:3 pull down menu and above average picture quality control menus.

Panasonic TC-L37X1

The Panasonic TC-L37X1 is one of the few 37 inch HDTVs that can be found for under $500. This model has an LCD screen with a resolution of 1366 X 768 pixels. It offers an aspect ratio of 16:9, and offers display modes of full, conventional 4:3, zoom and just. The Panasonic TC-L37X1 offers HDMI, component, S-video and composite connectivity as well as V-chip and channel locking capabilities. While this model doesn’t have the best resolution rating of 37 inch HDTVs, it is still an amazing model for the money.

Vizio VO320E

The Vizio VO320E is the best of the most inexpensive HDTVs on the market. You can get this 32 inch LCD HDTV for under $429.99 in most markets. It offers a 1366 X 768 pixel resolution image with 24 bit color depth capabilities and a contrast ratio of 15,000:1. It offers the same connectivity as most of the step up models of HDTVs including composite, component, HDMI and S-video ports. This model has been given good reviews as an economy HDTV, however, it does have a few issues. For example, it reportedly has a lighter than average black display, which means that it has a tendency to appear more like navy blue than black.

Toshiba AV502U Series

The Toshiba AV502U series is a good HDTV in the $500 and under category. It offers a 31.5 inch LCD screen, 720p and 1366 X768 pixel resolution. What makes this model great is that it has above average picture control and black levels than most LDC HDTVs in this class. However, the features and connectivity of the Toshiba AV502U series are limited.

Selecting a Cheap HDTV

When purchasing an HDTV for under $500 you need to prioritize what you want from your television. For example, you may be interested in a particular screen size, resolution level or connectivity options. Once you have prioritized what you want you will be able to select the model that will give you more of what you want for your money.

To maximimize your savings, shop around at online retailers to find the best deals, then visit your local WalMart, BestBuy or other electronics retailers. This gives you the added advantage of being able to see the images live and compare the brightness, color quality and resolution to other sets. If you're willing to brave a trip to the store and schlep it home yourself, you can save on the shipping costs over ordering online.

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