The best TVs of 2014
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Confusingly 2014 has been simultaneously a ground-breakingly great and a slightly disappointing year. There have been some amazing TVs at the cutting edge, notably in the 4K, curved and OLED markets, but quite a few uninspiring models in the mid and lower sections of the market.
There are actually a few potential key TVs still to emerge this year, such as Panasonic's X902 series, LG's 4K OLEDs, and Sony's S90 4K curved TVs.
But as things stand to date, 4K technology has been a huge winner; curved TVs have probably just about managed a score draw; OLED still looks like being the best thing to happen to TV since sliced bread; we've missed plasma loads; and HD LCD TVs have had a pretty average year.
Culled from this tumultuous backdrop, here's our pick of the best TVs of the year so far.
Best Flagship TV:
Sony X9005B
Sony's top 4K TV for 2014 is a stellar all-rounder. Its pictures benefit from arguably the best backlight handling in the LCD world, fantastically clever processing (especially when it comes to upscaling), and gorgeous colours thanks to Sony's Triluminos system. Sealing the deal is the X9005B's audio, as an array of Sony's magnetic fluid speakers belt out sound with levels of power, clarity, and dynamic range that you'd usually only get from a decent external audio system. Read: Sony KD-65X9005B review
Also consider:
Pushing the 65X9005B hard for best flagship TV is the Samsung 65HU8500. This also delivers contrast-rich 4K/UHD pictures with stellar upscaling processing and great colour response. Its curved screen may divide opinion, though, and it doesn't sound nearly as good as the Sony. Panasonic's 50AX802 deserves an honourable mention as another great 4K TV too now that it can handle Netflix 4K feeds.
In the HD rather than 4K world the best flagship TV is unquestionably LG's 55EA9800 OLED set.
Best mid-range TV:
Sony W829
Sony strikes again. The 50W829 was one of the first 2014 TVs we tested, so it's a testament to just what a great balance of performance and value it offers that it's survived the onslaught from rivals throughout the year. The key to its success is Sony's outstanding backlight control, which delivers black levels, contrast and colour heights far beyond those of the vast majority of other mid-range TVs this year. Read: Sony KDL-50W829 review
Also consider:
Samsung, again, pushes Sony hard in this section, especially with its H6700 series, as probably best represented by the UE48H6700. Otherwise the only other model warranting a mention here is Philips' PFS6609 series, as represented by the soon to be fully reviewed 55PFS6609.
Best bargain TV:
Panasonic AS500
While Panasonic has certainly missed its plasma TVs this year, it did manage to hit a nice sweet spot at the lower end of the market with the 42-inch 42AS500. Its picture quality is good for its money, it's well designed, and although it doesn't offer Panasonic's brilliant Freetime feature it does still benefit from the brand's friendly, personalisable My Home Screen interface. Read: Panasonic TX-42AS500 review
Also Consider:
Sony has a compelling proposition again in this sector in the shape of the £429 40-inch 40W605, which we'll be reviewing soon. Also, if you want a slightly bigger bargain, you could do worse than checking out the £529 Philips 48-inch 48PFT5509.
