Panasonic TX-L37E5B and Samsung UE37ES5500 at the Test Lab

With over 100 TVs tested a year, our lab is usually busy testing the latest models. In the current batch, we’re eagerly expecting results of two very widely available 37-inch models – the Panasonic Viera TX-L37E5B and the Samsung UE37ES5500.

Check out which models are currently being put through their paces at our test lab.

Panasonic Viera TX-L37E5B

This widely available model ticks many of the boxes. It’s got a Full HD LED screen, Freeview HD tuner and Viera Connect, Panasonic’s Smart TV system.

There’s no 3D though – if you like the look of this model but prefer to have 3D, have a look at the similar Panasonic Viera TX-L32ET5B. It features passive 3D technology.

Panasonic’s claims of enhanced contrast and smooth motion are currently being examined on the TX-L37E5B. We are also investigating the claimed 178 degree viewing angle. This would be a real asset if borne out, especially if lots of you are gathered round the TV.

Plasmas are usually more well known for wide viewing angles than LCD/LED models – but we are increasingly noticing that LED catching up.

The other screen options in the E5 range are 32″, 42″ and 47″.

Find out more about the Panasonic Viera TX-L37E5B.

Samsung UE37ES5500

Another 37-incher that’s available widely, the Samsung UE37ES5500 is a lot of TV for under £500 (if you shop around). With headline specs similar to the Panasonic, it’s going to be an interesting head-to-head to see which one comes out top at the lab.

Like the Panasonic there’s wi-fi ready smart TV access. Ready means you’ll need to install an optional wireless dongle – there’s no wi-fi built-in – or you can hook up the old-fashioned way with an ethernet cable. Find out more about Samsung Smart TV.

Samsung isn’t short of claims with this model. We’ll be examining whether the Wide Colour Enhancer Plus ‘drastically improves the quality of any image and uncovers hidden details’.

The ES5500 range is also available in 32″, 40″ and 46″ screen sizes.

Read more about the Samsung UE37ES5500.

LG with 3D

Fans of 3D need not be disappointed with this batch of testing, we’ve also got 2 3D models from LG.

The LG 32LM620T and the cheaper LG 32LM3400 are LED models with passive 3D technology. Passive 3D doesn’t usually match up with Active 3D for 3D picture quality, but it has its advantages. The main one is that glasses are cheap, so more of the family can sit round the TV and watch. LG has included 4 pairs with each of these sets.

We’ve got 10 other models in this batch, also featuring Sony and a range of smaller TV sizes perhaps more suitable for a bedroom or kitchen. For a TV to earn the coveted Which? Best Buy status, however, it has to perform exceptionally in our rigorous tests.

See our how we test TVs page for an in-depth look at what we do at the lab and watch our video below to understand what makes a Best Buy TV.

More on this…

• LED, LCD and plasma TV reviews  - Check out all our reviews
• What size TV should I buy? - Try our interactive tool and find our your perfect size
• What is smart TV? - Watch our video guide