Panasonic TC-P50ST30

When Panasonic detailed its 2011 plasma TV lineup at CES this January, we immediately pegged the TC-PST30 as the one model that "might hit the value sweet spot." After putting it through its paces we're going to eliminate the uncertainty from that phrase. The TC-PST30 may lack the THX certification of its more-expensive brother the TC-PGT30, but picture quality between the two is largely a wash, and excellent overall in both cases. Both share identical, well-stocked feature sets, highlighted by improved Internet suites, Wi-Fi dongles, and 3D capability (albeit sans included glasses). The ST30's only major downside, and the reason why some buyers might spring for another model, is pedestrian styling. At each of its six sizes, the Panasonic TC-PST30 series is our early favorite for best plasma TV value of 2011.

At just under 3 inches thick, the ST30 has a thicker profile than many competing LCD and plasma TVs, but it's still plenty flat.

Two of the three HDMI are on the back panel, which is absent a VGA-style PC input.

We like the remote more than Samsung's thanks to the better button differentiation, but not quite as much as Sony's slicker clicker. We missed having a dedicated Netflix button, and noticed that despite officially renaming its Internet suite for TVs "Viera Connect," the button on the remote still says "Viera Cast."

The side panel gets a third HDMI and two USB ports in addition to an SD card slot.

Panasonic includes a Wi-Fi dongle with the ST30, occupying a USB slot but happily allowing you to use a wireless connection with this TV without paying an extra $80 or more for a dongle.

The low-profile matching glossy stand can swivel the panel.

The ST30 cuts a chunky, plain appearance among the slim, sleek TVs available today. Panasonic attempts to spice up its thick, glossy black bezel with a subtle area of coloration, but to our eye it looks more like an extended smudge. The TV is understated enough to blend into most room decors, so that's a plus.

The menu system looks rather primitive compared to that of the competition.

The two-point grayscale control finally includes a green adjustment this year.

A couple of settings are designed to prevent and remove image retention, aka burn-in.

The Viera Connect market offers a store with a solid selection of free and paid apps.