22″ LCD TV — LCDs at 22 Inches, A Great Fit
Posted by hdtv buying guide on April 28, 2010 under HDTV Reviews, LCD HDTV | 
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Years ago, even the smallest televisions took up a good deal of space. The basic nature of the cathode-ray tube meant a 22-inch television still had a good amount of depth to it. The screen was small, but the television resembled a cube.
LCD technology has changed the way we think about televisions by making possible that same small-format screen without the massive depth. With the convenience of wall mounting, small televisions are popping up everywhere: kitchens, bathrooms and garages.
At the 22-inch size, there are hundreds of choices. Many of the top names — Sony, Samsung, Sharp, LG — only have one or two models in smaller formats. But the second-tier companies, like Vizio, typically have two or three options in each size.
There are really only two things to keep an eye out for when shopping for a smaller TV, and they’re similar to the way you’d shop for a larger one.
First, check screen resolution. Pretty much every LCD except the cheapest of the cheap will have a high-definition panel at 720p. Some even have 1080p resolution, which is unnecessary at that size.
It’s almost impossible to tell the difference between 720p and 1080p on a much larger 32-inch screen, so don’t get caught paying extra for 1080p 22-inch television. Those 1080p models often have slow screen refresh rates as well, making them even less impressive.
The second consideration is the mounting options for the television. If you’re looking to hang it on a wall, or in a corner, be sure there is a compatible wall mount or stand for that model.
A 22-inch HDTV will usually cost between $300 and $400, with a name like Sony occupying the top end of the range. Here are five solid choices at that size:
Vizio VW22L
The VW22L has a wide array of inputs on the back and side, and has a compatible wall mount available for $50. It retails for $329.99 and has 720p resolution.
Sony Bravia KDL-22L5000
Sony’s L series is the entry point for those looking for quality and performance in an affordable package. The 22L5000 retails for $399.99 and has a number of preset screen options.
Philips 22PFL3504D
Available at stores like Target, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s and RadioShack, the 22PFL2504D is a basic, no-frills HDTV. It retails for $349.99.
Samsung LN22B360
Part of Samsung’s Series 3 line, the LN22B360 is the entry point in the company’s LCD televisions. It retails for $289.99. The Series 4 model, the LN22B460, has a preset gaming mode, which brightens the screen with the touch of a button. It retails for $315.99.
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