26" LCD TVs: Are They Ready for Prime Time?

Samsung LT-P266W

This Samsung model goes by the rather cumbersome name of LT-P266W. But behind the name is a set with good performance and a few surprises. In the United States, the LT-P266W is offered instead, for around $1,400. The European equivalent of this model is the Samsung LW26A33W - the price was over 1,400 euros two months ago, but currently it can be found at the very competitive price of around 1,300 euros.

Design And Finish

The Samsung LT-P266W is a subtle blend of solid aluminum, and black and silver plastic. The result is quite elegant, with a superb finish. As on the Sharp unit, the speakers are placed at the bottom of the panel. The TV itself sits on a solid-aluminum base with an 'eye' shape that's odd-looking but fairly effective in keeping the set straight and stable.

Ergonomics

The LT-P266W comes with a simple, effective remote control with no frills. The menus are fairly clear and navigation is very easy. The ergonomics are short of what the Sony set offers, though.

Equipment

The connectivity on the Samsung LT-P266W is average for LCD TVs. Nothing out of the ordinary, but the essentials are present and accounted for: two Peritel connectors, audio and video cinch connectors, a PC DVI-I connection, and VGA.