The TC-L37X2 is a flawed entry-level LCD from Panasonic.

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Value Comparison

The Samsung PN42C450 seemed to exacerbate all the things we don't love about plasmas. There's that distinct mosquito flicker in the picture, and the performance overall was compromised. Samsung is an LCD manufacturer, first and foremost, and an entry-level plasma like this is not a great purchase. Conversely, Panasonic is primarily a plasma maker, and an entry-level LCD like TC-L37X2 is not a good example of the best that Panasonic can offer.

Blacks & Whites

The Panasonic TC-L37X2 could not get nearly as black as the Samsung PN42C450. But, as a plasma display, we expect it to be better. However, the Panasonic TC-L37X2 was particularly bad at contrast ratio and was easily beaten. For more details about how to get better contrast ratios on the Panasonic TC-L37X2, jump here.

Color Accuracy

The Panasonic TC-L37X2, when calibrated correctly, offers great color performance. The Samsung PN42C450 was not quite as good.

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Motion

The Samsung plasma display was able to better portray motion, as is frequently the case.


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Viewing Effects

As a plasma display, the Samsung PN42C450 offers a far wider viewing angle than the Panasonic TC-L37X2. However, the Panasonic was really quite good, for an LCD screen.

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Connectivity

The Panasonic TC-L37X2 has an included iPod dock, which is a nice touch but not necessarily something everybody needs. The Panasonic also offers a SD/SDHC card slot. However, the Samsung has an analog audio out.