Samsung LE40C650 review

The LE40C650's lowly position in Samsung's range is misleading and proof of just how far flat TVs have come in recent times; this is a very fine flatscreen indeed.

We liked:

The inclusion of support for DivX HD files – and Media Player software for USB playback – is impressive, as is this set's fast EPG for Freeview HD.

Colours and hi-def sharpness also impress, as does the giddy sense of depth and smooth movement created by the 100Hz engine.

We disliked:

The absence of an app for BBC iPlayer renders Internet@TV nothing more than a sideshow for now, while it's also a shame that AllShare doesn't work with a Mac.

We're also rather disappointed that the set doesn't come with a Wi-Fi dongle as standard. Picture-wise, the LE40C650 could do with more attention to contrast, though that's nit picking. More of an issue is the flicker introduced by the 100Hz scanning.

Verdict:

We're still not convinced consumers use internet video platforms – and even USB playback – very often, and Samsung's effort is certainly not yet a must-have.

The Freeview HD tuner didn't prove as sensitive as others we've tested, but in all other respects is an excellent presentation, enjoying fast and good-looking software that will assuage anyone coming from Sky or Virgin.

The flicker apparent when 100Hz is switched on is a worry, and though it's always noticeable it's worth persevering with while watching Blu-rays because of the involving picture it creates. There's little in the way of blur or judder and standard-definition pictures are treated well; an all-round quality performance makes the LE40C650 hard to resist.

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