Compare with...

  • Sharp Elite Pro-X5FD Series
  • Sony BRAVIA HX750 Series
  • LG LM7600
  • Sony HX850
  • Samsung 8000 Series (2012 LCD)
$2,400
  • 55" 1080p LED-backlit
  • 3D 240 Hz
  • Internet enabled
Released February, 2011
While Samsung's Movie mode delivered the most accurate picture prior to our adjustments, it was still overly blue with too-bright gamma and crushed shadow detail, albeit with extremely dark blacks.
Rated 81% by by c|net (Apr, 2011)
 
  • 55" 1080p Plasma
  • 3D 60 Hz
  • Internet enabled
Released January, 2012
Picture settings: Panasonic barely changed its options on the ST50 and remains one of the least-adjustable TVs on the market.
Rated 92% by by c|net (Mar, 2012)
 

Conclusion Which is better for you?

98%
73%
View Details
100%
23%
100%
100%
View Details
82%
92%
View Details

Winner

Samsung8000 Series (2011 LCD)

95
72

Features Key features of the Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD) compared to the Panasonic Viera ST50

55

LED-backlit

Back view of Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD)
I did a TON of research before my purchase, weighing the Pros/Cons of Plasma vs. LCD vs. LED, price, picture quality, number of HDMI ports, 3D, internet capability, 720p vs. 1080p, etc..
Rated 100% by by Patrick-Picklesimer (Mar, 2012)
Front view of Panasonic Viera ST50

55

Plasma

The ST50 handily outperforms its predecessor, with deeper blacks, more accurate color, and an improved bright-room image.
Rated 92% by by c|net (Mar, 2012)

size

55"
55"
We performed a hands-on evaluation of the 55-inch Samsung UN55D8000, but this review also applies to the other screen sizes in the series.
8000 Series (2011 LCD) by c|net (Apr, 2011)
 

Performance Real world tests of Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD) vs Panasonic Viera ST50

black levels

Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD)
Panasonic Viera ST50
I am amazed with the black levels that this set produce which contrast well will the vibrant colors that the set produces.
8000 Series (2011 LCD) by Flyer215 (Aug, 2011)
 

Differences What are the advantages of each

Advantages compared to the Panasonic Viera ST50

Supports Skype Yes vs No
Somewhat common; video chat with friends from the comfort of your living room
More composite A/V inputs 2 vs 1
Twice as many composite A/V inputs
More USB ports 3 vs 2
1 more USB ports
More consistent calibrated gamma 2.16 vs 2.14
More than 30% more consistent calibrated gamma
Supports picture-in-picture Yes vs No
Somewhat common; keep an eye on two channels at once
More D-Sub inputs 1 vs 0
1 more D-Sub inputs; great for hooking up to a computer
More HDMI ports 4 vs 3
1 more HDMI ports
Significantly faster refresh rate 240 Hz vs 60 Hz
4x faster refresh rate; minimize motion blur for sports and action movies
Has a QWERTY remote Yes vs No
Somewhat common; type more naturally with a full keyboard on the remote
Significantly lighter 16,193 g vs 32,477 g
2x lighter
More RF inputs 1 vs 0
1 more RF inputs

Advantages compared to the Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD)

Significantly more highly reviewed by consumers 92% vs 82%
More than 10% more highly reviewed by consumers

Reviews Word on the street

Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD)

Panasonic Viera ST50

Rated 81%
Read the review (Apr, 2011)
At base, the UND8000 represents a simple choice between a quality picture and the best design and features.
Rated 92%
Read the review (Mar, 2012)
Of course I can't say how the ST50 will age, but if the 2011 Panasonics are any indication, it won't get much worse during the first year.

Discussions Get involved, ask your question about the Samsung 8000 Series (2011 LCD) and Panasonic Viera ST50

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8000 Series (2011 LCD)
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