Panasonic TC-P50G10 vs. Panasonic TC-P50S1

By Edward McKellen

Choosing the right HDTV is not an easy task, especially with many models to choose from. One way of narrowing down your choices, though, is by selecting a brand then comparing two of the best models of that brand, like the Panasonic TC-P50G10 and the Panasonic TC-P50S1.

Let's start by comparing the design of the Panasonic TC-P50G10 and the Panasonic TC-P50S1. Both have impressive glossy black frames with fashionable hidden speakers a silver strip at the bottom. What sets them apart, though, is that the TC-P50S1 has more rounded edges while the TC-P50G10 has a fading silver tinge below the strip and a thinner frame. In fact, you will find few Plasma televisions with a thicker frame than the TC-P50G10. They both have glossy black stands that still don't swivel, but the TC-P50G10 comes with one that's round instead of the usual rectangular one.

When it comes to picture quality, the TC-P50G10 and the TC-P50S1 have the same basic strengths and weaknesses, namely the ability to create outstandingly deep black levels combined with excellent shadow detail and the lack in color accuracy, respectively. The TC-P50G10 has a THX mode, though, which gives it an edge over the TC-P50S1. In this mode, TC-P50G10 displays even better images, with better shadow detail and increased color accuracy, allowing it to better recreate the movie theatre experience.

Next, let's take a closer look at the connectivity options. Both the TC-P50G10 and the TC-P50G10 do well in this aspect, offering three HDMI inputs and a SD card slot which allows you to share your digital photos via the Viera Image Viewer feature. The TC-P50G10 has more to offer, though, with a VGA input where you can plug in your computer, an analog audio output and an ethernet port to facilitate the Viera Cast feature.

Another good thing about the Panasonic TC-P50G10 and the Panasonic TC-P50S1 is that they both carry the innovative Viera Link feature, which is similar to Sony's Bravia Sync or Sharp's Aquos Link. This feature allows you to control all of your HDTV-compatible devices with the push of a button on the remote control instead of having to turn them on and off individually. This makes it easier for you to watch movies and also keeps you from forgetting to turn off any device when you are done watching. Aside from this, both the TC-P50G10 and the TC-P50S1 come with a game mode, an anti-reflective filter and a pixel orbiter which helps prevent temporary image retention or screen burn-in.

The TC-P50G10 has one additional feature that stands out from the rest - the Panasonic Viera Cast. This feature allows you to use your HDTV just like a computer and access popular online content like YouTube videos, Amazon Video on Demand, Picasa web albums, weather reports, stock information and others without buying any other device. You will need an active internet connection to enjoy this feature, though, and the sites you can access are still limited.

If you're after lower electric bills, the TC-P50G10 and the TC-P50S1 are both worth considering since they consume less energy than previous models and most Plasma televisions, although they still consume more energy than their LCD counterparts. The Panasonic TC-P50S1, in particular, has commendable power-saving features, and comes with an Energy Star 3.0 rating in addition to its NEO PDP panel.

Other similarities include simple on-screen menus, though the Panasonic TC-P50G10 has two more color temperature presets, as well as the tag prices they come with. Indeed, the TC-P50G10 is only slightly more expensive, and with its excellent additions, it certainly comes out as the winner when choosing between the Panasonic TC-P50G10 and the Panasonic TC-P50S1. - 30542

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