le5400

Although CNET did not review the Sony KDL-HX729 series, we did review the similar KDL-NX720.

Comparing the two on Sony's Web site, the HX729 has Sony's "Deep Black Panel" while the NX720 has the "OptiContrast Panel." We can't be sure how this difference affects picture quality, especially in bright rooms, but we suspect the two will have similar black-level performance since both use Sony's Dynamic Edge LED backlight (more info).

The HX729 has a 240Hz refresh rate, compared with the NX720's 120Hz. We don't expect this difference to have a … Read more

Although CNET did not review the Samsung UND7000 series, we did review the UND8000 series.

The UND8000 has a higher contrast ratio, and in this case we do expect it to deliver better black-level performance. That's because the UND8000 has local dimming of its edge-lit LED backlight, which the company calls "micro dimming," while the UND7000 does not (more info).

Both TVs have the same ultraslim bezel design, however, so we expect the UND7000 to share the uniformity flaws we saw on the UND8000. The bezel of the 7000 has black accents, whereas the 8000 is entirely … Read more

Although CNET did not review the Sharp LC-60LE632U, we did review the LC-60LE830U.

Comparing the two on Sharp's Web site, the 830U has a slightly higher contrast ratio and Sharp's Quattron technology. In practice we doubt either specification difference will make a big difference in picture quality (more info). In our testing of the 832U, Quattron provided no benefit to color accuracy.

The 830U also has a slightly different design, with squared-off edges and somewhat larger dimensions and weight. It includes a built-in subwoofer as well.

As far as we can tell there are no other major differences … Read more

Although CNET did not review the LG LE5400 series, we did review the LE5500 series.

Comparing the two on LG's Web site, the 5500 has a slightly higher contrast ratio, as well as a slightly lower response time, both implying somewhat better picture quality. In practice we doubt either specification difference will make a big difference in picture quality (more info).

The LE5400 also has a "silver gray" accent to complement its glossy black, and the LE5500 is accented with "evening purple." The LE5400 series also has a 32-inch model, whereas the LE5500 does not.… Read more