Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Resolved Question

First-time HDTV buyer: Which one is best for me?

by Nov 20, 2012 12:58AM PST

So I'm looking to buy an HDTV for the first time and I think I've narrowed down my choices to two different TVs that Walmart is offering on Black Friday.

One is an Emerson 40'' LCD TV 1080p 60Hz for $200 and the other is a Samsung 32'' LED TV 720p 60Hz for $250.

My budget is right around $250 and I will mainly be using the TV to play Xbox (Halo 4 and Skyrim) and watch movies through my Xbox, computer, and cable. I will be using this TV in my room and I should be sitting about 55-65 (give or take) inches away from the TV. Samsung seems to garner more favorable reviews than Emerson, which is an off-brand TV manufacturer.

Which TV would you recommend for my intended use?

Discussion is locked

cmdecker10 has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer
6 Posts
- Collapse + Expand Details

Best Answer

- Collapse -
With the mention of the games, 1080p for me.
by Forum moderator Nov 20, 2012 1:00AM PST

While some may dis the name, gaming would have me go to 1080p in a flash. No doubt here.
Bob

- Collapse -
I purchased
by itsdigger Nov 20, 2012 1:11AM PST

a Toshiba 32 in , 1080 , 60 hz for my Dell desktop and playing games and am very pleased with it especially for $180.00........Digger

- Collapse -
Answer
Consider the Sammy
by Nov 20, 2012 5:06AM PST

Even thought it's only 720p, you should notice more of the difference because it's using LED technology vs plain LCD.

Since you are only sitting 5 feet from the screen, the 32 should be more than adequate for everyday viewing. You may also get better gaming experience on the 32 vs the 40 since there's less 'hunting' by your eyes for objects. YMMV.

- Collapse -
Answer
Another TV...
by Nov 20, 2012 8:54AM PST

...I've found is an Insignia 26'' LED TV 1080p 60Hz for $100 from Best Buy. I don't know if the screen is big enough though. Basically, I'm looking for the TV that will present the best picture quality relative to how far away I will be sitting from it (about 5 ft).

Thanks for all the input so far!

- Collapse -
Don't expect much PQ from a $100 Insignia
by Pepe7 Nov 20, 2012 11:10PM PST

My experience with that brand is, run away quickly Wink

- Collapse -
Could be a step up from
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Nov 20, 2012 11:16PM PST

The old 480 line tube days. But could be as big a step up as from top ramen to mac and cheese?

Back to TVs & Home Theaters forum

CNET Forums

Operating Systems
Software
Electronics & Gadgets
Hardware
Tablets & Mobile Devices
General Help
Brand Forums
Roadshow Autos
Off Topic

Other Forums

Forum Info