Ten... Freeview HD 42-47in TVs



LG 42PM470T

This affordable 720p plasma is tooled to the max with desirable tech. LG’s familar IPTV and apps hub is on-board and it supports a broad range of multimedia file formats. Wi-Fi may not be integrated, but it’s 3D ready although Bluetooth 3D glasses are an optional extra.

For a budget screen, there’s an astonishing level of picture control on offer; LG optimistically quotes a contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1, but minor moans about black level limitations seem inappropriate given the price. A pixel orbiter is provided to negate screen burn (although that’s really not an issue these days) and there’s a de rigueur 600Hz motion processor. The sound system only makes an average noise though, at just 2 x 10W.

Panasonic Viera TX-L42ET5

The first in Panasonic’s affordable line of 2012 LED TVs, the ET5 cuts quite a dash. The glossy, grey frame is sensationally svelte, and there’s a features list as long as Angelina Jolie’s pins. The set offers the same on-line access to the brand’s streaming TV portal as its more expensive cousins, which means BBC iPlayer, YouTube and Netflix amongst others – and there’s comprehensive file playback from USB too.

The panel also works with those inexpensive 3D goggles you can pocket from the local multiplex. But while image quality is fine for daytime TV consumption, motion resolution is a tad limited, which may take the shine off for armchair sports enthusiasts.