Samsung LN40C650 40" 1080p 120Hz LCD TV

Model: Samsung LN40C650 LCD TV
Description: 1920 X 1080 40" LCD Television
Reviewer: Jack Burden
Date: Summer 2010

A defined, bright shot shows off the C650's contrast from the HD Blu Ray version of Troy

The LN40C650 from Samsung contains some older upgrade technology features such as CFL backlighting, 3.2" depth, Touch of Color bezel, 120Hz Auto Motion plus, the ultra clear panel and adds their Internet suite of choices. This model falls in the lower to mid range of Samsung's LCD/LED lineup. We thoroughly enjoyed last years B650 series LCD so were happy to review the successor model. And as anticipated, we were very pleased with the results. We hope that Samsung will continue to offer/produce a value oriented CFL backlit LCD TV as their technology contained in these TVs offer exceptional value combined with excellent quality.

A shot from the standard definition DVD of Under the Tuscan Sun shows great detail and contrast

Up conversion from standard definition 480i and 480p: In the past we have harped on the importance of the AutoMotion Plus 120Hz technology contained in this and most all of Samsung's LCD and LED TV offerings. The importance of the performance of this feature cannot be overstated. In the 2009 series B650 series we recommended turning off the 120Hz feature for all but sports programming due to the unpleasant side effects...read full review

Features: Read above in the Picture section for a run down on how the 120Hz AutoMotion Plus feature performs. We wish that Samsung would include a dedicated button on the remote control for this feature. Follow these directions on how to it off and on:

1. Press the Menu button
2. Select the Picture Setting (Movie) by pressing right arrow key
3. Scroll down to Picture Options (below the fold) and press enter button
4. Scroll down to Auto Motion Plus (below the fold) and press enter button
5. Press the right arrow key and scroll with up or down key to select between Off, Clear, Standard, and Smooth. We recommend Off or Standard.

The C650 series includes Samsung's Internet suite. Here is Wimbledon on YouTube via ESPN.

Aesthetic Considerations: The C650 is a good looking TV for the price range. The unit is 3.2" deep...read more

At $950 to $1100 this TV is not as great a deal as it's larger C650 brethren, but is still a sold option. Sure, you will not boast LED backlighting (no big deal), or 3D compatibility (also no big deal yet), or the highest 240Hz rate (probably not even noticeable from the 120Hz). But what you will get is a great picture with the most practically interesting features, fantastic black levels and depth and super brightness if needed from time tested technologies. Competition comes from the LG 42LD520 and the Sony KDL-40EX500 LCD. I'll just make the comment right here that this TV will give any edge lit LED LCD a tough run for the money. One considering this TV should also consider plasma TV in this size such as the Panasonic TC-P42S2.

Rating scale from 70 (denoting poorest quality) to 100 (signifying the very best quality). Picture quality is double-weighted in the Overall Rating Score calculation.

Specifications