When it comes to brand performance—that is, how well on average each brand’s models perform in our Ratings—the results for plasma and LCD TVs are mixed.
A number of brands stand out as solid choices, based on our tests over the last few years, but we’d urge some caution with half a dozen makes that have had hits and misses in our Ratings. For all other brands in our Ratings that are not mentioned below, we haven't tested enough models to address brand performance.
Please help us refine the information we present to you by taking this informal survey. There's no personal data to enter—just one question to answer and an open response page where you provide your feedback. Thanks in advance.
And don't forget to visit our in-depth TV coverage elsewhere on ConsumerReports.org.
Rankings of LCD, LED, and plasma TV brands
LG, Panasonic, Samsung, and Sony TVs have consistently been among the top performers in our Ratings over the last few years. Given that top-notch track record for those brands, we believe their TVs that are not in our Ratings are likely to do just as well. Also reassuring: The TV buyers we surveyed have reported a low rate of repairs for TVs from those brands.
Vizio and Sharp TVs have delivered generally strong performance that should satisfy all but the most demanding viewers. Their track record suggests that other models will follow suit. All of those brands have had a low rate of repairs, increasing the likelihood that you’ll take home a top-notch product.
Other brands have a less consistent track record in our Ratings. Some Insignia, Toshiba, JVC, Philips, Magnavox, and Sanyo LCD TVs did quite well, but others had lower scores. We have less confidence that an untested model from one of those brands will offer performance comparable to its best tested siblings.
![]()
Next steps
When you're ready to buy your new set, visit our television section. Our buying guide will fill you in on the myriad details on today's high-tech TVs. Our list of recommendend models and Ratings of dozens of sets will provide you specifics on models you're considering. And our frequency-of-repair data will tell you which brands are the least and most reliable.
Please help us refine the TV information we present to you by taking this informal survey. There's no personal data to enter—just brief questions to answer. Thanks in advance.
Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2007-2013 Consumers Union of U.S.
Next steps
