Plasma televisions offer a flat panel display that is typically offered in larger viewing screens. As opposed to LCD televisions, plasma uses charged plasma cells to create images that offer better viewing angles, deeper black colors and superior fast motion images. Only LG, Panasonic and Samsung offer plasma televisions, with other television manufacturers focusing on LCD technology. New plasma models generally claim a lifespan of over 20 years, but there is a potential for burn-in. CNET suggests keeping contrast on a new plasma to less than 50 percent for the first 100 hours of use to minimize burn-in issues. http://reviews.cnet.com/lcd-tvs-plasma-tvs/?tag=contentMain;contentBody;pm

Fifty inch plasmas tend to be less expensive than LCD equivalent models, with picture quality and prices varying significantly based on make, model and features. In general, 50 inch plasma televisions range from about $700 to over $2,000 for 3D models like the Panasonic Viera VT25.http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_12?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=50+inch+plasma+tv&x=0&y=0&sprefix=50+inch+plas Most plasma televisions in this range feature good color saturation and black-level performance with 1080 pixel resolution. Glass screens on plasma televisions can cause viewing difficulties, especially in brightly lit rooms. Customers should look for a model with glare-reducing technology for enhanced contrast under all lighting conditions.http://reviews.cnet.com/lcd-tvs-plasma-tvs/?tag=contentMain;contentBody;pm Higher level models such as the Samsung 8000 series feature 3D viewing options with special 3D glasses. Increased connectivity with Internet-based media is also available on top-of-the line models and will likely become a more common feature on future models.

The 50" Viera VT25 Series full HD 3D plasma television offers a new edge of realism in pictures with frame sequential technology that allows viewers to see 3D images. The enhanced screen and refresh rate required for 3D images enhances traditional 2D images for a greater viewing experience for all types of media. One pair of high-precision shutter control eye wear is offered with each television purchase. The screen is THX certified and offers a 600Hz sub-field drive for crisp pictures on fast moving images. The Viera VT25 features "Infinite Black Pro" to increase image contrast and produces robust blacks, even in dark movie scenes. The television also comes with "Viera Cast" access to online content such as Picasa Web Albums, Pandora Internet Radio, streaming from Netflix, Twitter connections, Skype, YouTube and Fox Sports. USB terminals are provided for wireless LAN adapters and a keyboard, but no computer is required. "The included "Viera Link" allows for ease when connecting periphery devices such as DVD players, network cameras and home theater systems.http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Televisions/Full-HD-3D/VIERA-VT25-Series-Plasma-Full-HD-3D-HDTVs/model.TC-P50VT25_11002_7000000000000005702

Ratings

• Amazon: 4.8 stars out of 5http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-TCP50VT25-TC-P50VT25-1080p-Plasma/dp/B003NA1AGM/ref=sr_1_3?s=STORE&ie=UTF8&qid=1284923577&sr=1-3
• Best Buy: 5 stars out of 5http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Panasonic+-+VIERA+/+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+3D+Plasma+HDTV/9825367.p?id=1218179420947&skuId=9825367
• CNET: 4 stars out of 5http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-tc-p50vt25/4505-6482_7-33941234.html?tag=contentMain;contentBody;1r

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Reviews

• "With both 2D and 3D sources, Panasonic's flagship TC-PVT20/25 series plasma TV delivers outstanding overall picture quality.''—CNEThttp://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-tc-p50vt25/4505-6482_7-33941234.html?tag=contentMain;contentBody;1r
• "It's so clear with near perfect color that the 2D looks almost 3D.''—Amazon Customer Reviewhttp://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-TCP50VT25-TC-P50VT25-1080p-Plasma/dp/B003NA1AGM/ref=sr_1_3?s=STORE&ie=UTF8&qid=1284923577&sr=1-3
• "If you want the best picture quality, and don't want to worry where you have to sit to get a great picture, then purchase this plasma.''—BestBuy Customer Reviewhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/Panasonic+-+VIERA+/+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+3D+Plasma+HDTV/9825367.p?id=1218179420947&skuId=9825367

The LG Infinia 50PK950 plasma is broadband ready and features a THX certified display. With full HD 1080 resolution and a 5M:1 dynamic contrast ratio, the television offers a strong, vivid picture image that is enhances by a "TruBlack Filter" that helps block glare and improves image quality. The 500Hz refresh rate minimizes streaks and blurs, especially on video games and sports action. The "NetCast Entertainment Access" allows instant Internet connections to TV shows, weather, HD movies and news. The LG Infinia 50PK950 is also wireless ready.http://www.lg.com/us/tv-audio-video/televisions/LG-plasma-tv-INFINIA-50PK950.jsp

Ratings

• Amazon: 5 stars out of 5http://www.amazon.com/LG-50PK950-50-inch-1080p-Plasma/dp/B0039RSXUU/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284921097&sr=1-1
• Best Buy: 4.3 stars out of 5http://www.bestbuy.com/site/LG+-+INFINIA+/+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+Plasma+HDTV/9720169.p?id=1218159405100&skuId=9720169
• CNET: 3.5 stars out of 5http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/lg-infinia-50pk950/4505-6482_7-33939226.html

Price

Reviews

• "LG's PK950 series plasma TV competes well against the picture quality of flagship models from other manufacturers.''—CNEThttp://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/lg-infinia-50pk950/4505-6482_7-33939226.html
• "My experience so far is great and have no regrets choosing the LG PK950.''—Amazon Customer Reviewhttp://www.amazon.com/LG-50PK950-50-inch-1080p-Plasma/dp/B0039RSXUU/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284921097&sr=1-1
• "This television has the best HD picture I have seen outside of a trade show or manufacturers demonstration.''—BestBuy Customer Reviewhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/LG+-+INFINIA+/+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+Plasma+HDTV/9720169.p?id=1218159405100&skuId=9720169

The Panasonic Viera 50PK950 offers high picture quality with crisp images, a stylish design and a wide color viewing angle. With a native 30,000:1 contrast ratio, the 600Hz technology in this plasma television offers full HD motion and still images at 1,080 resolution. Panasonic promotes this model as ideal for movies and sports with fast moving images. The television also offers the "Viera Link" control which provides simple connections to all home theater items from one control, a "GalleryPlayer" feature for still photographs and easy HDMI and LAN cable connections to other electronic devices such as gaming systems, DVD players, computers and video cameras.http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-VIERA-TC-P50X1-50-Inch-Plasma/dp/B001SN7QUU/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

Ratings

• Amazon: 4.4 stars out of 5http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-VIERA-TC-P50X1-50-Inch-Plasma/dp/B001SN7QUU/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
• Best Buy: 4.3 stars out of 5http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Panasonic+-+VIERA+/+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+Plasma+HDTV/9786054.p?id=1218174065119&skuId=9786054
• CNET: 4 stars out of 5http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-tc-p50v10/4505-6482_7-33490589.html

Price

Reviews

• "The high-end Panasonic TC-PV10 series of plasmas delivers the overall best picture quality of any flat-panel HDTV we've tested so far this year.''—CNEThttp://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-tc-p50v10/4505-6482_7-33490589.html
• "...true brilliant color, impressive blacks, great resolution''—Amazon Customer Reviewhttp://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-VIERA-TC-P50X1-50-Inch-Plasma/dp/B001SN7QUU/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
• "Everything is easy to hook up and I have never been more proud of a purchase!!!''—BestBuy Customer Reviewhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/Panasonic+-+VIERA+/+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+Plasma+HDTV/9786054.p?id=1218174065119&skuId=9786054

At 2.9 inches, the Samsung class 550 plasma HDTV offers a thin design along with a frame and stand that uses color gradations for an artistic appeal. With a Full HD 1080 pixels, the picture offers a bold and realistic picture and the E-panel technology minimizes glare for enhanced viewing with minimized blurring. The Samsung 550 uses color stretching to allow each pixel to be fully saturated for a more natural color image. The Energy Star compliant plasma television has built-in tuners to connect with any form of cable, including high-definition and features "ConnectShare" for quick connections with digital cameras and thumb drives. Game enthusiasts will appreciate the plasma's game mode that speeds up image processing and optimizes sound and picture quality for gaming system use. Digital sound quality is offer through advanced SRS technology.http://www.samsung.com/us/video/tvs/PN50C550G1FXZA-features

Ratings

• Amazon: 4.3 stars out of 5http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-PN50C550-50-Inch-1080p-Plasma/dp/B0036WT3XO/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284918110&sr=1-2
• Best Buy: 4.2 stars out of 5http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung+-+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+Plasma+HDTV/9789343.p?id=1218175322173&skuId=9789343
• CNET: 4 stars out of 5http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-pn50c550/4505-6482_7-34005787.html?tag=also

Price

Reviews

• "Deep rich colors. Amazingly fast image.''—CNEThttp://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-pn50c550/4852-6482_7-34005787.html?tag=contentMain;contentBody
• "...true brilliant color, impressive blacks, great resolution''—Amazon Customer Reviewhttp://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-VIERA-TC-P50X1-50-Inch-Plasma/dp/B001SN7QUU/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
• "This set has an excellent picture, and is very easy to view from the side.''—BestBuy Customer Reviewhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung+-+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+Plasma+HDTV/9789343.p?id=1218175322173&skuId=9789343

The Samsung 8000 Series offers cinema quality 3D images and full HD 1080 pixels in 2D with enhanced dimension and depth. With 1,920 X 1,080 native resolution, a 7M:1 dynamic contrast ratio and "Auto Motion Plus" reduced blur technology, the television is designed for crisp, clear images on fast action images. The television features 3D Active Glasses and a "Real Black Filter" for an enhanced plasma contrast and sharpened details. The television is equipped with hundreds of TV applications that allow viewers to stream videos, play music, access digital content and view pictures. The Samsung Apps Platform also has connections with AccuWeather, Flickr, Twitter, Youtube and eBay. http://www.samsung.com/us/video/tvs/PN50C8000YFXZA

Ratings

• Amazon: 4.8 stars out of 5http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-PN50C8000-50-Inch-1080p-Plasma/dp/B0036WT3Z2/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284924846&sr=1-7
• Best Buy: 4.5 stars out of 5http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung+-+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+3D+Plasma+HDTV/9808897.p?id=1218177168303&skuId=9808897
• CNET: 3 stars out of 5http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-pn50c8000/4505-6482_7-34005777.html

Price

Reviews

• "The quantity of picture controls means that you can really fine tune this set, which will be a real boon for videophiles.''—CNEThttp://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/samsung-pn50c8000/4852-6482_7-34005777.html?tag=contentMain;contentBody
• "Great color accuracy. Handles motion like a champ even converting 2D to 3D.''—Amazon Customer Reviewhttp://www.amazon.com/Samsung-PN50C8000-50-Inch-1080p-Plasma/dp/B0036WT3Z2/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284924846&sr=1-7
• "When I pulled it out of its box and put it on for the first time I was amazed how good the picture was, I was thinking that this doesn't even need to be calibrated it's so good! ''—BestBuy Customer Reviewhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung+-+50%22+Class+/+1080p+/+600Hz+/+3D+Plasma+HDTV/9808897.p?id=1218177168303&skuId=9808897

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