Sharp's LED-based LCD TV costs less money, consumes less energy

The Sharp LC-LE700UN series uses less power than any TV we've tested.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

LCD TV makers have always charged a premium for LED backlighting. In fact, the first LED-based LCD TV Sharp released, the inch-thick XS series, debuted last year at a cool $11,000 MSRP for the 52-inch model. LED has become a lot more mainstream since then, and so have Sharp's ambitions for the well-marketed backlight technology. The Sharp LC-LE700UN series encapsulates that progress toward the mass market: it's the least-expensive LED-backlit LCD available today, it measures the standard 3-odd inches thick, and as a result, its owners will have a tough time convincing visitors that it's anything more than a normal, CCFL-based LCD.

This Sharp uses different LED backlight technology from any of the other "LED TVs" available today, and perhaps as a result its picture quality has no major advantage over non-LED-based LCDs. On the other hand, it sips power more sparingly than any other TV we've reviewed, and its solid feature set is highlighted by a unique selection of widgets and superb built-in support options. The Sharp LC-LE700UN series will appeal to people on a moderate budget who still want the energy efficiency of an LED-backlit LCD.

Read the full review of the Sharp LC-LE700UN series.

Sharp LC-LE700UN series--photos

Sharp Aquos Net--photos

[joefosho619]

I don't think so. I'll stick with my LED Backlight HD VAIO. Much better. Especially since I added that 3D Nvidia Graphics card and still spent less than this Sharp.

[mb00]

who'd pay $11,000 for a TV and why? Unless the the actors and actually standing in my livingroom acting, there's no way in hell I'd even pay $5,000 let alone $11,000.