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32" LCD TV Shootout: Final Result

by Colin Tang
21 May 2007

Final Score

category
Tosh. C3030D
Samsung R87
Panny LXD70
pq Contrast Ratio
1
3
2
Black & Shadow Detail
1
2.5
2.5
Colour
3
1
2
Detail & Sharpness
2
2
2
Motion Handling
1.5
1.5
3
Viewing Angle
1.5
1.5
3
Video Processing
3
1.5
1.5
Backlight Uniformity
1.5
1.5
3
Total Points
14.5
14.5
19
audio Audio
1.5
1.5
3
Background Noise
2.5
2.5
1
Total Points
4
4
4
design Styling
2.5
2.5
1
Screen Size
N/A
N/A
N/A
Connectivity
2
3
1
Total Points
4.5
5.5
2
operation Remote Control
1.5
3
1.5
On-Screen Menu
3
2
1
EPG
1
3
2
Total Points
5.5
8
4.5
Grand Total
28.5
32
29.5

The Samsung LE32R87BDX grabs the top spot with its strong showing in connectivity, styling and overall design of the panel. I'm sure that many Samsung owners will agree that the optional DNIe feature and mind-boggling range of picture controls is probably the most significant innovation in the 8 series, giving power back to the consumers where subjective picture quality is concerned.

The surprising 19 point lead by the Panasonic TX32LXD70 in the picture quality department can be attributed to its cutting-edge Motion 100Hz technology, generous viewing angle and blemish-free screen. It's worth pointing out that the backlight uniformity issue (good or bad) only applies to our test units and is not a reflection of their general quality. Also, when you look a little more closely at the scores, it becomes clear that the other two TVs dominate other categories – Toshiba in colour reproduction and video processing, Samsung in black level and contrast ratio.

Best Price > 32" LCD TV
Model
Merchant
Total
Toshiba 32C3030D
Samsung LE32R87BDX
Panasonic TX32LXD70

The price comparison puts a new perspective on things. It looks like you need to pay a price premium to enjoy the benefits of the Panasonic LXD70. From the PQ point of view, we are looking at class leading performance in motion and viewing angle, plus moderate achievements in colour and shadow detail. So, is all this worth another 150 pounds above the average 32 inch price tag? It could be, if you have always complained about LCD motion particularly with sports. The Toshiba is aggressively priced at £470 but with the Samsung a mere 20 pounds away, it's not a real advantage.

All our scoring are done after instrument calibration to maximise the potential of each TV. Without calibration, it IS possible that the Toshiba may look better than either the Samsung or Panasonic LCD. Although we realise that normal viewers will not have access to our equipment, we believe that it is still possible to do some justice with basic HDTV calibration. Trust me... it will make your TV investment go the extra mile.

References

Back To: 32" LCD Shootout
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