Despite the many new brands available in 2005, the Sharp LCD TVs still remain favorites of critics and public alike. The Aquos line of Sharp TVs is especially applauded for its picture quality. The original Aquos is the Sharp-LC32GD4U, is a 32 inch TV, which is known to produce the best black rendering among all brands. It is available in other versions such as the 45 inch Sharp-LC45GD5U and the 37 inch Sharp-LC37GD4U. Sharp also produces economy versions of its TV in smaller sizes. They haven't got rave reviews, but are still better than other brands on the shelves. Sharp's widescreen version is closely followed by the Sony Vega KDL-32XBR950. The race between the two has been almost neck to neck.

Among smaller size TVs, Philips steps up. The 17 inch Philips TV, 17-PF8946 can be used as a TV as well as a monitor. It is highly economical, priced at just around $500, and has features like an inbuilt cable box and HD compatibility. It has a lower aspect ratio of 15:9, but that is not a deterrent as the overall picture quality is quite commendable. The other leaders in the race for small screen LCD TVs are the 15 inch Zenith version L15V36 and Sony's 17 inch MFM-HT75W.

Many new brands have emerged in the market this year. Chief among them are Kreisen, Syntax and the computer monitor giants ViewSonic and Gateway. Among these, Kreisen has received the worst reviews. The picture quality of their 30 inch version KR-320T has come under a lot of heat in almost all reviews and they have a poor rendering of black. Syntax stands better chances with its 30 inch Olevia LT30HV and 32 inch Olevia LT32HV. These TVs come under the category of economy TVs. They are priced lower so as to manage a foothold in the niche market.

ViewSonic has a smooth entry in the market. It has an above average picture quality, but the sound quality is no great shakes. Yet, it is quite modestly priced and provides good value for money. The 30 inch N3000W is priced at $1200. Gateway performs just like ViewSonic does, but a major stumbling block is the price factor. Gateway's 30 inch version is priced at $1600. Both ViewSonic and Gateway are below par when it comes to background detailing and rendering dark scenes, but these can be considered as teething problems. Both companies have potentials to improve their faults with future versions.