Best 42″ Plasma TV
These are the best 42" plasma TV models on the market. We have selected them as some of the best HDTV models because of their exceptional picture quality and characteristics. Note however, that even though they all are great, some of the models listed here are better and more expensive, while the others are cheaper at the expense of picture quality or features. Choose which one suits your requirements, viewing habits and budget, best.
Recommended Viewing Distance for 42″ HDTV
In order to get the best out of your HDTV, it is recommended to sit at the right distance. Depending on the type of content you are watching and the distance between you and the HDTV screen, a certain size will be optimal. If you want to find out more on this topic, make sure to read HDTV Screen Size & Viewing Distance guide.
- 15 feet for 480i SDTV & 480p EDTV (common SD programs and regular DVD movies)
- 8.2 feet for 720p HDTV (high definition TV programs – most sports channels)
- 5.5 feet for 1080i (high definition TV programs) and 1080p HDTV (movies on Blu Ray Disks)
The optimal distances above are for perfect visual acuity. Also, you can sit a bit closer or further away without noticing a loss in detail. 1080i/1080p distances apply only to HDTV models that have 1080p native resolution.
Best Rated HDTV Models for This Size
Panasonic TC-P42G10 Plasma TV
(9.0)
While Panasonic TC-P42S1 offers similar black levels, the TC-P42G10 outperforms it, as well as every other 42 inch plasma TV, based on its THX certification and its feature set. Panasonic TC-P42G10 has fairily accurate colors and solid black levels, making it the best 42 inch plasma TV on the market.
Pros
- Superior shadow detail and black levels
- THX mode provides great color balance
- Viera Cast and Internet connectivity adds to benefits
- Accurate color gamut
- Good value, considering the quality it offers
Cons
- Color in non-THX mode not as accurate
- 1080p/24 mode causes flicker
Panasonic TC-P42S1 Plasma TV
(8.5)
The TC-P42S1 has similar picture quality to models in the G10 series. Its black levels are solid, though its colors are a bit under par when compared to the G10, which doesn’t have THX mode. The S1 is available at a lower price and has a less of a feature set than the G10. Overall however, if you want a good HDTV without any bells and whistles, this is a great choice.
Pros
- Dark black levels and solid shadow detail
- Decent color saturation
- Less power hungry than other plasmas
- Very good value for money
Cons
- Primary colors and color temperature not as accurate as other HDTVs
- Meager picture controls
Panasonic TC-P42X1 Plasma TV
(8.0)
The Panasonic TC-P42X1 is more affordable than most high-end and mid-end models. Its panel has a native resolution of 720p, lowering the price considerably. While it has a lower picture quality, for its price range the picture is quite solid, even though its plasma panel is not the new NeoPDP from 2009 and its feature set is sparse.
Pros
- Very inexpensive
- Good black levels, especially for this price
- Plenty of connectivity options for an entry-level HDTV
Cons
- Color accuracy is not great
- “Only” 720p resolution
- Uses an older type of plasma panel (not the NeoPDP from 2009)
Samsung PN42B450 Plasma TV
(7.5)
Samsung PN42B450 is a less expensive plasma TV. Like the Samsung TC-P42X1, a basic feature set is included, as well as 720p resolution. The set is pretty cheap, making it more affordable for consumers with a very tight budget. Even though its price is low, the picture quality is good, though naturally, not a match for mid-end and high-end models.
Pros
- Color accuracy is quite good
- Inexpensive
- Decent connectivity for an entry-level HDTV
Cons
- 720p resolution
- Unimpressive black levels
- No interactive features
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