Samsung PS51D550

HD TV Reviews (32" and Above)

Last year, we were pleasantly surprised by the great-value Samsung PS50C6970 plasma TV. We were therefore keen to get our hands on the PS51D550. Unfortunately, Samsung didn't have one available to test, so we asked our readers if anyone had a model they'd care to lend us. When a reader came forward, we jumped at the chance to check out this TV. The D550 is a plasma TV with a host of functions on offer, including web-connected services, 3D compatibility (active-shutter technology) and a very attractive price tag. As of last year, Samsung's plasma-screen TVs have gained an inch in screen size without changing their external dimensions. This has been achieved by slimming down the bezel, as you can see below—the left half of the image is the 2010 TV, the right half of the image is the 2011 model: The D550 is a pretty plain kind of plasma TV. The 51-inch screen is surrounded by glossy black plastic borders covered by a thick layer of transparent plastic. The TV is well assembled and has a decent-quality finish. However, as with all plasma TVs, the screen has a shiny finish which can prove problematic in brightly lit rooms.