Samsung Series 5 vs LG Scarlet

Long weekend coming up, so why don't I sign off with a bang? The latest LCD TV models from Samsung and LG have already been reviewed by us, and while they proved competent, neither was perfect in all respects. So it should be fun to play god and pit the 42-inch LG Scarlet against the 40-inch Samsung Series 5. On we go...

Aesthetics and Form
The LG Scarlet has become quite famous for its red back panel, which no doubt looks beautiful, but it’s at the rear! Are any consumers going to fall for this? There's no sensible explanation for putting the most striking design element where it's least likely to be seen. It must be some inside joke on LG’s part.

The on/off button on the Scarlet is an awesome piece of work – no doubt about that. It’s a hole carved through the bezel’s bottom panel, which has a transparent ridged rim. It is touch-sensitive, and lights up subtly when on. On the other hand, the Series 5 is basic, with the high gloss black finish all over and a thin metallic strip on the left and right borders. The bezel is narrow and straight up.

Both have hidden speakers and flush, touch-sensitive buttons, but the Scarlet looks distinctly better. LG has clearly made an attempt to go one up on Samsung when it comes to aesthetics, so it wins our opening round.

Winner of Round One: LG Scarlet