Energy efficient TV may sound like an oxymoron and with ever increasing TV sizes and the current 3D TV trend,it’s enough to make energy efficiency watchers cringe. But no need to pull the plug just yet, because the other major trend for 2011 is increased energy efficiency in TVs. With new efficiency standards going into effect this year, you’ll also begin to see the energy guide labels on TVs.

While this is a good place to start in finding an energy efficient TV, there are some HDTVs that are going beyond the energy guide standards. There are also things you can do yourself, such as have a professional calibration which reduces the light output and increases performance, or you can optimize your picture settings yourself. You can also check your TV for a power saving mode and turn off the quick start option which uses power by keeping the TV in standby. Read on to learn about the most energy efficient TVs available today as well as what’s on the horizon.

OLED TVs

LG's OLED TV

OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) TVs have some advantages over LCD displays. Though the technology has been slow going in the television market, OLED has made its’ way to laptops, smartphones, and tablets. OLED TVs don’t need a backlight like the LCDs do, which makes for better contrast, a higher refresh rate, and a thinner design. Most importantly they draw on 60-80% of the power as that of an LCD TV.

LG recently displayed their 31-inch 3D OLED TV at the CES 2011. With a depth of 3.2 mm, full HD 1080p, 200 HZ Trumotion, and a contrast ratio of 10,000,000:1, the LG EL9500 shined at CES. The LG OLED TV uses less power than standard LCD TVs and does not contain lead or mercury, making for a more environmentally-friendly product. A 15-inch model is currently for sale in Europe with plans to release in the U.S. later this year. Samsung  has plans of releasing an OLED TV in 2012.

LED LCD TVs

The most basic rule of energy efficiency and TVs is the bigger the screen, the bigger the energy drain, and while this is still the case, owning a larger screen TV while still keeping energy consumption down is quickly becoming a reality. The next general rule is that LED TVs are the most energy efficient TVs currently available. The following LED TVs feature a large screen while keeping energy costs down.

Samsung UN55D8000 3D LED HDTV

Samsung UN55D8000 3D LED HDTV

Samsung has released their new line of energy efficient LED TVs for 2011 featuring the uber-sleek, ultra-thin bezel of 0.2 inches to produce a virtually edgeless TV. This model series is edge-lit with LEDs, using what Samsung calls the most innovative LED picture contrast technology. For the 55 inch TV, depending upon setting, wattage power ranges from 105.41 watts down to an impressive 86 watts using the calibrated movie mode for an annual average energy cost of $17-$23, depending upon personal energy rates and usage. The Samsung UND8000 series features 3D capability and built-in Wi-Fi with Samsung’s Smart TV technology and apps access. However, expect to pay for the full array of features and beautiful design. The Samsung UN55D800 retails for $3,600. A 46 inch model is available. And a 60 inch and 65 inch version is yet to be released.

The Samsung UN55D8000 is currently on sale at Amazon for $2,400.

LG Infinia 55LV5500 LED HDTV

LG Infinia 55LV5500 LED HDTV

The LG Infinia LV5500 series features smart energy saving in addition to the energy star seal, which means that the user has greater brightness control through local dimming of the LEDs. When you can reduce the light output on your TV, the power consumption reduces by as much as 50%. The series is recommended by Consumer Reports with an average energy cost of $31 per year for the 47-inch model based on 8 hours a day of use in the default setting.

The LG Infinia 55LV5500 sells for around $1,399 on Amazon.

Sharp LC-46LE835U LED HDTV

Sharp LC-46LE835U LED HDTV

Sharp has shown a commitment to manufacturing TVs that are both eco-friendly and consume less power than competitors by receiving the 2011 Energy Star award for excellence in energy efficient product design and continually making some of the most efficient TV models available. The latest LED model series is available with or without 3D and features edge-lit LEDs. The estimated energy cost based on 5 hours of use per day in default setting is $15 per year.

The current sale price for the 46-inch, 3D version is 1,370 on Amazon. The no-3D model is available for $1,080 on Amazon.

The Best LED TVs of 2011

LED TVs are a type of LCD TV that use LED lights to illuminate the screen. In full-array LED TVs the light emitting diodes are embedded across the entire back of the panel, while other models are edge-lit, where the LEDs are arranged around the sides of the panel and illumination is directed toward the center. Most LED TVs feature local dimming, meaning that the individual lights can be adjusted independently.

In general, the full-array offers the best picture quality, but edge-lit offers a slimmer design and the local dimming technology is becoming more advanced on the edge-lit LED TVs. Of all the choices in TVs today, the LEDs offer the best energy efficiency with many exceeding the energy star rating which translates into savings in your pocket. The local dimming technology increases this efficiency. Reviews for the best rated LED TVs can be found on Consumer Reports (subscription required), Amazon, and Cnet. Here are our picks for the best LED TVs including estimated annual energy cost.

Vizio XVT553SV Tru Led TV

Vizio XVT553SV Tru Led TV

The Vizio XVT553SV Tru Led TV received a best buy from Consumer Reports with loads of features for the money and was the 2010 editor’s choice from Cnet, who called it the “best value among high-end LED-based LCD TVs today”. Though Vizio has been considered a budget LCD TV company, they’ve made a name for themselves by making quality products that have pleased their customers. The 55 inch 1080p HDTV screen on this model is one of the few to use full array LED backlit illumination. It features smart dimming technology to control the LEDs and produce blur-free clarity.

Integrated Wi-Fi gives you access to Vizio Internet Apps (VIA) which includes access to streaming movies from Amazon, Netflix, and Vudu. Also features a universal Bluetooth remote with slide-out Qwerty keyboard. The only negative from Consumer Reports was the sound quality was said to be below that of most other TVs this size. They gave sound quality a fair rating, but gave picture quality an excellent rating. This model exceeds the current Energy Star guidelines by 50% and the LEDs do not contain mercury. The estimated annual energy cost from Consumer Reports is $52, that’s with a daily use of 8 hours without using the energy saving mode.

The Vizio XVT553SV Tru Led TV is currently on sale at Amazon for $1,699.98.

LG 42LE5400 LED TV

LG 42LE5400 LED TV

Recommended by Consumer Reports, the LG 5400 series of LED TVs features 1080p full HD resolution with TruMotion 120 HZ technology for no motion blur. The 42 inch model shown is backlit by inward-projecting LED lights embedded around the edges to make this TV energy efficient and ultra-slim. Other features include Picture Wizard and Intelligent Sensor which automatically adjusts the pictures to your surroundings, internet access with Wi-Fi adapatability for access to Netflix, CinemaNow, Vudu, YouTube, Picasa Photos, and Pandora Internet Radio, and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound.

Consumer Reports liked the LG 5400 for it’s excellent versatility and ease of use. They gave the picture quality a very good rating and the sound quality a good rating. Cnet hasn’t reviewed this product yet, but you can read another review at PCMag. Metaefficient likes the energy star rating estimated annual energy cost of $25 per year as well as the price itself.

The 42LE5400 LED TV retails for around $1,400, but is currently on sale at Amazon for $899.99.

Sony Bravia KDL-46HX800 LED TV

Sony Bravia KDL-46HX800 LED TV

The least expensive of Sony’s new line of 3D HD LED TVs is the HX800. The LED scheme on this model is edge-lit with local dimming, which means the LEDs are placed around the sides of the TV and can be dimmed independently within zones. Local dimming is typically only found in the full-array LED configuration, so this technology is fairly new. The 46 inch Sony Bravia shown features 1080p HD resolution, Motionflow 240HZ technology, and is 3D capable, though you’d need to purchase the glasses and 3D sync transmitter. It’s Wi-Fi adapter ready with access to Bravia internet including Neflix, Amazon Video, YouTube, Crackle, and Pandora Internet Radio.

Consumer Reports gave the picture quality and versatility an excellent rating. They liked the 3D effect, though it wasn’t perfect and had noticeable ghosting at times. All in all, it’s a reasonably priced LED TV from a high-end brand that will give you excellent picture quality and an estimated energy cost of $33 per year.

You can get the 46 inch Sony Bravia HX800 LED TV on Amazon for $1,499.

Samsung UN46C8000 LED TV

Samsung UN46C8000 LED TV

With the Samsung UN46C8000 LED TV you’ll get a chic, uber-thin (just under an inch) design and superior picture quality to other edge-lit LED TVs, yet with a retail price of $2,799.99 you’ll pay for it. Amazon has it currently on sale for $1,648.00, which is quite a savings. The LEDs can be locally dimmed. Features 1080p and 240HZ no-blur technology, 3D capability with separate purchase of glasses, and wireless connection to Samsung Smart TV with access to video, games, and social networking.

If the 3D feature is your priority, you may want to look elsewhere. Both Cnet and Consumer Reports found the 3D effect had considerable ghosting along the edges. However, Amazon reviewers love it, especially the abundance of features comparable to other TVs. This 46 inch model exceeds the energy star qualification with an estimated cost of $38 per year.

The Samsung UN46C8000 is on sale on Amazon for $1,648.00. (You’ll need to actually put the item in your cart to see this price.)

VIZIO M370NV LED TV

VIZIO M370NV LED TV

This 37 inch LED edge-backlit TV from Vizio is perfect for a small to medium sized room and will save you money on energy cost and give you a lot of features for the money. Consumer Reports reviewed the 32 inch model giving picture quality and viewing angle an excellent rating, but sound quality was only fair. Features a full 1080p HD resolution and TruVolume technology which controls volume inconsistencies between programming. Since the LEDs are arranged on the side, the set is a mere 1.7 inches thick. Amazon reviewers have given the Vizio M370NV LED TV an average 4.5 star rating. A great value all around, this TV has an estimated $20 per year energy cost.

The Vizio M370NV LED TV is currently on sale at Amazon for $529.99.

LG INFINIA 47LE8500 LED TV

LG INFINIA 47LE8500 LED TV

Like the Vizio XVT553SV, the LG Infinia 47 inch 8500 uses full array LED backlighting with local dimming capability. Even with the LEDs behind the screen, the set is still slim at 1.4 inches. Features the full HD 1080p screen with 240HZ technology and internet access to LG’s Netcast Entertainment which includes Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, Picasa, and Yahoo widgets. The LG Infinia is recommended by Cnet for excellent picture quality, though one flaw they did notice was the unevenness of the backlighting and some reflectiveness especially in bright rooms. Overall though, the full array, independently adjustable LEDs of the LG Infinia help to create an unrivaled picture clarity and is one of the highest rated LED TVs on Amazon. Read the user reviews here. The estimated energy cost is $22 per year.

The LG Infinia 47LE8500 retails for $2,699.99, but is currently on sale at Amazon for $1,499.95.

If your New Year’s resolution is to bring your technology into the 21st century, revamping your TV is a great place to start. The unfathomable amount of information available for your viewing pleasure on the World Wide Web begs the question: why are you still settling for cable? Check out these suggestions to take your downtime from stale to spectacular.

Pick the Perfect Computer

Everyone has a favorite machine, but we are partial to the Mac mini. Not only is it one of Apple’s most cost-effective computers at $699.00, but this tiny wonder is the world’s most energy-efficient desktop. When idle, it uses less than 10 watts, making it better for the planet and your bottom line. Plus, it has a remote control, so you can easily switch between sites and content.

If you want to convert that old PC you have lying around to your new media station, Windows-compatible remotes such as the Windows PC Remote Control and Infrared Receiver are available from Amazon.

Freebies

Many television stations offer their content online, free of charge, with limited commercial interruptions. Don’t want to miss Modern Family? Can’t spend a week without House? ABC, NBC, Fox and CBS — to name just a few — allow viewers to watch their favorite shows from the convenience of their desktop. Plus, most stations offer even more great content related to your favorite shows online such as special “webisodes” and video blogs by cast members.

If you’re looking for the last 5 episodes of current popular shows, more than 800 full seasons from hundreds of shows, personalized recommendations for you, and lots more, hulu is a great choice. Their standard definition via computer is still free, but, for high definition and more options, joining hulu plus for $7.99 a month gets you a full-access pass for television and available movies.

Want to catch up on that British series you love, brush up on your Vietnamese or check out the news in the Netherlands? Beeline TV offers news, TV shows, movies, music, entertainment and sports from around the world free of charge.

A bevy of free content that steps outside of the box a bit is also available on various stations. If you want to catch up on your Masterpiece Theatre or view a documentary on Epigenetics, PBS.org has something for you. And, of course, if you’d prefer to watch your daily tap dancing squirrels, funny kids or old Saturday Night Live skits on a bigger screen, YouTube is always an option.

Filesharing services are also a good source of free content. We like MegaShares because they allow direct downloads and feature easy search capabilities.

Get a Subscription

With Amazon Video on Demand, you can purchase pretty much any video or television show and watch immediately. Amazon even offers TV passes, where you can buy any past or future episode of a show at a discounted price, so you can catch up on past seasons of a show you just discovered — and make sure you never get behind again.

Speaking of utilizing an account you already have, iTunes is a fantastic source for TV shows and movies, most of which carry a fee, and podcasts, many of which are free.

And then there’s a little something called Netflix. Current estimates are that, during peak hours, as much as 20% of bandwidth is utilized by Netflix alone. From Scooby Doo to Spartacus, a good selection of movies and television shows can stream directly to your TV via computer (or XBOX or PS3 or Wii…) for a low, flat monthly fee.

No matter which way you choose to go, the future of viewing is more user-friendly and tailored to individual tastes than ever. With a computer-controlled approach for every budget, basic cable seems so — well — 2010.

Best LCD TVs Under $500

LCD TVs have taken leaps and bounds over the years in terms of picture quality and extra features included with the set itself. Now users are able to surf the web on LCD TVs, or even connect with their set from a different room in the house. The great race is on to see what company can make the best LCD TVs more affordable to the consumer, while retaining the high definition quality that users seek out. Everyone wants to have film quality viewing in the comfort of their home, and manufacturers like LG, Sony, and Samsung have really stepped up the game to give consumers the best LCD TV under $500 possible.

The Energy Efficient LG 32LH30 32-Inch 1080p LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: LG 32LH30 LCD TV

The LG 32LH30 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV features 1080p resolution, as well as three HDMI inputs, and a PC input for connecting a computer. With a huge 50,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, as well as Dolby Digital 5.1 capability, this is easily one of the best LCD TVs out there for under $500. Not to mention that the set is Energy Star rated, allowing users to save money on their bills while being environmentally conscious.

With a four and a half star rating at Amazon, users and experts agree that this is one of the best LCD TVs under $500 on the market. Some consumers have noted that when using HDMI there can be some slight audio and video sync issues at times. Also, the viewing angles of the LCD TV deteriorate as you move away from the center, but this is pretty common with most of the best LCD TVs.

The LG 32LH30 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV is available at Amazon for $490.

The Wide Color Samsung LN32C450 32-Inch LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: Samsung LN32C450 LCD TV

Samsung’s LN32C450 32-Inch LCD HDTV is a one of the best LCD TVs with an Energy Star rating, based on its efficient operation. With customized game modes designed for video game play, three HDMI inputs, and an image aspect ratio of 16:9, the LN32C450 is a versatile set. It also has Samsung’s wide color gamut technology, which said to produce a larger palate of color overall. Unlike many LCD TVs, this one also features SRS TruSurround HD for virtual surround sound.

Some users have noticed that the power cable can sometimes be a bit loose on this set, causing it to sometimes turns itself off randomly. But overall reviews for this set have been overwhelmingly positive, making it one of the best LCD TVs under $500 on the market.

The Samsung LN32C450 32-Inch LCD HDTV is available at Amazon for $390.

The Dynalight Toshiba 32RV525R 32-inch 1080p LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: Toshiba 32RV525R LCD TV

The Toshiba 32RV525R 32-inch 1080p LCD HDTV features Dynalight backlight control for energy savings, as well as a PC input for connecting a computer. It also features a QAM box for receiving scrambled channels, thus eliminating the need for an external cable box. Its remote glows in the dark, and features an Energy Star rating. This LCD TV also features three HDMI inputs, and QSound 3D Surround Sound for virtual surround.

With a three and a half star rating at Amazon, users are generally positive about this set, lading it for its energy savings and resolution overall. However a few gripes have been mentioned, such as a lack of DVI input, lack of custom presets for picture controls, and the poor quality of S-video when connecting a PC. However, users do emphasize that this LCD TV is a wonderful value at the price point, noting that it provides better picture than some more expensive sets.

The Toshiba 32RV525R 32-inch 1080p LCD HDTV is available at Amazon for $429.

The 1080p-Equipped Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: Sony BRAVIA EX 400 LCD TV

The Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV features full 1080p resolution, as well as Wi-Fi capability, allowing users to connect right to the internet through their set. With seven HD inputs, including four HDMI inputs, there is no shortage of connectivity with the EX 400. It also features a light sensor technology that changes the brightness of the backlighting based on the ambient lighting in the room.

Users love the Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV, only noting a couple small issues. Some users have mentioned that the remote is fairly cheap and lack a picture-in-picture button. Another issue with this set is that the stand doesn’t swivel, a minor annoyance, but sometimes it’s a nice feature when you’re trying to be productive while watching LCD TVs.

The Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV is available at Amazon for $499.

The Energy Efficient LG 32LH30 32-Inch 1080p LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: LG 32LH30 LCD TV

The LG 32LH30 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV features 1080p resolution, as well as three HDMI inputs, and a PC input for connecting a computer. With a huge 50,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, as well as Dolby Digital 5.1 capability, this is easily one of the best LCD TVs out there for under $500. Not to mention that the set is Energy Star rated, allowing users to save money on their bills while being environmentally conscious.

With a four and a half star rating at Amazon, users and experts agree that this is one of the best LCD TVs under $500 on the market. Some consumers have noted that when using HDMI there can be some slight audio and video sync issues at times. Also, the viewing angles of the LCD TV deteriorate as you move away from the center, but this is pretty common with most of the best LCD TVs.

The LG 32LH30 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV is available at Amazon for $490.

The Wide Color Samsung LN32C450 32-Inch LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: Samsung LN32C450 LCD TV

Samsung’s LN32C450 32-Inch LCD HDTV is a one of the best LCD TVs with an Energy Star rating, based on its efficient operation. With customized game modes designed for video game play, three HDMI inputs, and an image aspect ratio of 16:9, the LN32C450 is a versatile set. It also has Samsung’s wide color gamut technology, which said to produce a larger palate of color overall. Unlike many LCD TVs, this one also features SRS TruSurround HD for virtual surround sound.

Some users have noticed that the power cable can sometimes be a bit loose on this set, causing it to sometimes turns itself off randomly. But overall reviews for this set have been overwhelmingly positive, making it one of the best LCD TVs under $500 on the market.

The Samsung LN32C450 32-Inch LCD HDTV is available at Amazon for $390.

The Dynalight Toshiba 32RV525R 32-inch 1080p LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: Toshiba 32RV525R LCD TV

The Toshiba 32RV525R 32-inch 1080p LCD HDTV features Dynalight backlight control for energy savings, as well as a PC input for connecting a computer. It also features a QAM box for receiving scrambled channels, thus eliminating the need for an external cable box. Its remote glows in the dark, and features an Energy Star rating. This LCD TV also features three HDMI inputs, and QSound 3D Surround Sound for virtual surround.

With a three and a half star rating at Amazon, users are generally positive about this set, lading it for its energy savings and resolution overall. However a few gripes have been mentioned, such as a lack of DVI input, lack of custom presets for picture controls, and the poor quality of S-video when connecting a PC. However, users do emphasize that this LCD TV is a wonderful value at the price point, noting that it provides better picture than some more expensive sets.

The Toshiba 32RV525R 32-inch 1080p LCD HDTV is available at Amazon for $429.

The 1080p-Equipped Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV

Best LCD TVs Under $500: Sony BRAVIA EX 400 LCD TV

The Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV features full 1080p resolution, as well as Wi-Fi capability, allowing users to connect right to the internet through their set. With seven HD inputs, including four HDMI inputs, there is no shortage of connectivity with the EX 400. It also features a light sensor technology that changes the brightness of the backlighting based on the ambient lighting in the room.

Users love the Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV, only noting a couple small issues. Some users have mentioned that the remote is fairly cheap and lack a picture-in-picture button. Another issue with this set is that the stand doesn’t swivel, a minor annoyance, but sometimes it’s a nice feature when you’re trying to be productive while watching LCD TVs.

The Sony BRAVIA EX 400 Series 32-Inch LCD TV is available at Amazon for $499.

Sony is introducing a new LCD TV called the Bravia WE5 that it claims to be the greenest ever. The WE5 uses a new backlight called a micro-tubular HCFL backlight, which cuts the active power consumption by 50%. The television also incorporates a “Smart Presence Sensor”. This senses when no one is watching the TV and turns the picture off to save energy. The sensor detects body heat and movement of anyone sitting in a room and when no one is sensed, it automatically goes to “picture off” mode and will switch to standby in 30 minutes.

Unlike most TVs that draw power even when turned off, but the new WE5 has a special switch that can be activated reducing the power consumption of the set to zero watts when not in use.

The WE5, like most 2009 Sony TVs, carries the ‘EU Flower’, an Eco-label introduced by the European Commission to certify greener, more environmentally friendly products that comply with strict ecological and performance criteria.

The WE5 Eco TV will be available with 40-inch and 46-inch screen sizes in the UK this spring. Ship schedules and pricing for the U.S. are unknown at this time. 

Home Page: Sony Bravia

This new 42-inch LCD "Eco TV" by Philips was announced at CES 2008 (Consumer Electronics Show). The television certainly has a lot  of energy saving features  that make it possibly the most efficient TV on the market. CNET reports:

[The TV] has the ability to dim the backlight–by up to five times peak brightness–in response to program material…Dimming the backlight in darker scenes has the dual benefit of saving power and improving black-level performance, according to the company. The backlight can also be dimmed via a room lighting sensor, so in dark rooms it will use less power. There’s also traditional a "power-saving" mode that caps the peak light output

With this trifecta engaged, we saw the panel’s power consumption dip to an impressive 75 watts during the in-booth demo–Philips had hooked up a Watt’s Up to track consumption. That’s a bit more than a standard incandescent light bulb and 30 watts less than the most miserly 42-inch LCD we’ve tested ourselves so far, Philips’ own 42FL7432D measured after calibration (more info). The Eco TV’s standby power is also less than 0.15 watt according to the company, also among the best we’ve seen. According to the company, when all of these features are enabled the television consumes only 75 watts of power. Philips used a Kill-A-Watt device hooked to the LCD to show journalists it wasn’t just blowing green PR smoke.

The television also features a stand-by power mode that consumers less than 0.15 watts. It also has lead-free materials and only "trace" amounts of mercury, which enables it to comply with strict ROHS and State of Vermont standards, respectively. It comes in a box made of recycled material.

The television is due to be released in March, and priced at around $1400.

Via: Groovy Green

The best television reviews can be found on Consumer Reports (subscription required) and CNET. Shown here is Sony’s WEGA KV-27FS120 television. It received the highest marks from reviewers for its sound and picture quality, especially in 16:9 enhanced mode. It has a flat picture tube to minimize glare. It’s a bit more expensive (about $300) than comparable sets, but according to reviewers, the quality of the set make it worthwhile.

Also receiving high rating were Toshiba TVs, specifically the Toshiba 27A45 27″ (about $215) and Toshiba 32A35 32″ (about $360). These televisions also received praise for their sound and picture quality. Unlike the Sony TV, they do not have a flat picture tube. Reviews also noted that Toshiba sets have virtual surround sound and StableSound which evens out the volume between commercials and TV shows.

Other TVs that received high ratings were: Sony FD Trinitron WEGA KV-30HS420 and Sony XBR KD-34XBR960.

Reviewers at CNET rate Sony’s model KD-34XBR960 at the top of the current HDTV market. They say: “If you can deal with the bulk and don’t need a huge screen, this is the perfect home-theater TV.” Their user’s reviews give it similar high marks. It is priced at $1900. Available from: Amazon.