Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

A panoramic of Panasonic’s top TVs…

by Ian Collen

In another busy year for the top TV manufacturers, let us guide you through Panasonic's 2022 collection to help you see how its newest models are shaping up against each other and their rivals.

Panasonic rarely puts a foot wrong when it comes to its TV line-up, having been consistently impressive for many years. Its 2022 collection might not have the same kind of headline-grabbing features as some other manufacturers, be it 8K or Quantum Dot technology, and its largest panel is the 77-inch LZ2000 (at least that has been announced so far), while others might be heading into the 80s and beyond. However, the company still has an impressive array of technology in place to offer up some great options to consider alongside the likes of LG, Sony, and Samsung.

This year sees Panasonic continue to upgrade its OLED line-up, including expanding the use of the OLED panels into its 8-series TVs, plus there are further improvements to its LEDs. There are a couple of region-specific models, with the LZ800 aimed at the UK market and the LX940 for a wider European audience – so if you live further afield you might not find these specific TVs listed in your region, but you might see something similar with a different name.

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know
The Panasonic LZ1000 boasts a Master OLED panel, while the LZ1500 and LZ2000 have enhanced 'Pro' status.

Leading the line-up is the new range of Master OLED Pro models, making the most of the OLED EX panels and luminance booster technology to work alongside Panasonic’s refined HCX Pro AI processor to offer improved picture quality and higher contrasts – with the company pointing out that it’s not just about better brightness, but also improved colour volume. We should point out that some of these perks won’t apply to the introduction of the first 42-inch models in the range, or the new 48-inch TVs, but otherwise Panasonic has a strong feature list that’s common across most its 2022 range.

What’s New for Panasonic TVs in 2022?

Along with introduction of 42-inch and 77-inch OLEDs, much of what’s ‘new’ for 2022 is more a case of adding improvements over last year’s models, such as the HCX Pro AI processor, Auto AI and the new version 7.0 of Panasonic’s My Home Screen platform. The higher brightness and better contrasts that may be seen best in its Master OLED Pro range will be interesting to see in action across the likes of True Cinema, Filmmaker, and Professional modes. Plus, many of the TVs also use heatsink technology to help the OLEDs maintain brightness without getting too hot.

The Auto AI system introduced last year works in sync with the processor to better adjust colour tones in a more realistic way, using advanced sensors to better analyse and adjust colour temperature and luminance in a more natural way. The AI will detect the type of content you’re viewing and adjust the picture and sound accordingly (or not at all if you decide to turn if off), while also further adapting to more accurately reflect true colours, such as skin tones.

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Among others, My Home Screen v7.0 adds Apple TV+ and Disney+ to its roster, while the likes of the myScenery gallery for showcasing pictures or audio when the TV isn’t in use has also been expanded. Gamers can make use of the new Game Control Board, as part of Panasonic’s Game Mode Extreme set-up which is available on all 2022 TVs, with the exception of the LX800. The new feature offers up a range of information at the touch of a button, including an HDR Tonemap and a Dark Visibility Enhancer to make those poorly-lit scenes a little easier to see in less-than optimal conditions.

TV Article

25

What is Filmmaker Mode?

What is Filmmaker Mode?

by AVForums ·
The Filmmaker Mode is an initiative involving the Ultra HD Alliance, Hollywood studios and TV manufacturers that lets consumers watch content as the director intended using one simple picture setting.  

The core features of Panasonic's 2022 TV line-up

While some manufacturer’s might see a larger diversity of what features each model has, Panasonic’s 2022 line-up has a sizeable amount of core elements that apply to most, if not all, of the new TVs. So, to save us from repeating ourselves for each listing, here are some of the more common components of this year’s collection. The HCX Pro AI processor is one such feature, with only the LX800 Android TV missing out – with this particular model a notable outlier for quite a few things.

Along with the LX650, the LX800 and some of the smaller displays not listed here, is one of the few that doesn’t come with support for Dolby Vision IQ, while HDR10+ Adaptive also joins the likes of HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Filmmaker Mode is a regular, and is now backed up by the Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode on all OLEDs, with Dolby Atmos also a consistent feature across the whole range (except for a few models we’re not featuring here), along with upgraded speaker units.

Home AV Article

70

What is Dolby Vision?

What is Dolby Vision?

by Steve Withers ·
Dolby Vision has been getting a lot of attention recently, with many claiming it's the superior HDR format. But what is Dolby Vision, how does it work and is it really better than HDR10?  
TV Article

20

What is Dolby Vision IQ?

What is Dolby Vision IQ?

by Steve Withers ·
Dolby Vision IQ is the latest feature added to the company's dynamic metadata HDR format that now works in conjunction with a sensor in the TV, adjusting the tone mapping for the ambient light in the room.  
Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know
The LZ2000 ticks just about every box in Panasonic's 2022 feature list.

You’ll find the likes of Google and Alexa on virtually all models, albeit with some regional exceptions. The majority of this year’s models also come with a ‘twin concept’ Penta Tuner offering up to five different ways to source your TV input, including via the internet and home networks, along with your usual antenna, cable and satellite options.

Game Mode Extreme is also available on every TV we list below, except for the LX800 which has to make do with the standard Game Mode set-up. All models also come with two HDMI 2.1 ports, which sets them up for the likes of 120Hz refresh rates at 4K for those compatible TVs, with a new 60Hz Refresh Mode for the OLED models to focus more on visual fidelity over that free-flowing gameplay. Plus, you’ll find the likes of Auto-Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh Rates and AMD’s FreeSync Premium to help keep things nice and smooth.

Home AV Article

72

What is HDMI Version 2.1?

What is HDMI Version 2.1?

by Steve Withers ·
All the different versions of HDMI can get quite confusing. In this article we explain what HDMI 2.1 is, why you might need it and what the benefits are.  

Panasonic TVs: What’s in a Name?

Panasonic uses a largely typical system for its longer model names, with 2022 being the year of its ‘L’ TVs (following last year’s ‘J’ range with K being one of the letters the company skips past to avoid possible confusion). As an example, in the UK the 77-inch LZ2000 has the full model name of TX-77LZ2000B, so let’s quickly explain what it all means.

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know
Panasonic's 2022 4K LEDs will feature 'LX' in the model name, compared to the 'LZ' of the OLEDs.

The initial TX prefix clarifies it as being for the European region, so anyone living elsewhere will find this differs when they look up a Panasonic TV (for example, North America would see TC instead). The following 77 relates to the screen size (so will obviously change across the product range), with that L a more consistent feature, clarifying it as a 2022 model up next (as opposed to 2021's 'J' range). The Z identifies the model as having an OLED panel, with 4K LEDs changing this up to an X, and Full HD LED models getting an S.

The number run of 2000 relates to the TV’s series and product number, with the final letter B another more specific regional identifier (B covers UK and Ireland, as well as Brazil). Some models may have an extra letter at the end, such as the TX-43LX650BZ, to help add further design differences (such as stand variations), but hopefully it all makes sense once you know what to look for.

Panasonic 2022 TV line-up

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Below is a list of the most notable models in this year’s line-up, along with a few pointers as to what makes each one different to those before it. At the time of writing, there wasn’t much confirmed in terms of pricing or availability, with just a couple of LX650 LEDs listed to begin with, but we’re expecting Panasonic to start rolling out the bulk of its 2022 TVs in July, with most models out by the end of September, although it has been suggested that some of the 42-inch OLEDs which might not reach us until October.

We’ll keep updating the details as and when we get them confirmed by Panasonic (using conversions if we get US or European pricing ahead of the UK), and of course do bear in mind that some things may be subject to change in the coming months. In addition, as mentioned there will likely be some variations in different regions, so be sure to check in with your local Panasonic website or retailer to be sure you’re getting the right information.

Panasonic’s 4K Master OLED / Pro TVs for 2022

LZ2000

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

The flagship series in Panasonic’s 2022 line-up, the LZ2000, ticks off every single box in the 'core features' listings, providing the best of everything the company has to offer. It boasts a high-end Master OLED Pro panel that's been custom-engineered for maximum performance and superior brightness. The LZ2000 also offers up the largest screen size in the line-up, with a 77-inch model returning alongside the usual 55- and 65-inch versions, and also comes with Smooth Motion Drive Pro.

There’s a new speaker array in place, featuring 360° Soundscape Pro and a Dolby Atmos system that uses side-firing as well as front and up-firing speakers, The LZ2000 also uses beamforming technology for its Front Array speaker system to add further precision in its audio delivery, offering up a combined 170W 7-channel system with integrated woofer. As with the rest of the Master OLED Pro range, it comes with four HDMI 2.1 inputs, including eARC, and three USB connections.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
55-inch / TX-55LZ2000B£2,299July
65-inch / TX-65LZ2000B£2,899July
77-inch / TX-77LZ2000B£4,299July

LZ1500

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

The LZ1500 doesn’t differ hugely from the LZ2000, although both the 42- and 48-inch versions use a standard OLED panel, rather than the Master OLED Pro you’ll find with the 55- and 65-inch displays, and the smaller models also miss out on the cooling heatsink system.

Perhaps the most notable difference in the larger two LZ1500 TVs is a slightly scaled down audio system, using Dynamic Cinema Surround Pro (with those two smaller TVs losing the ‘Dynamic’ upgrade) as part of a simpler 50W 2-channel speaker system with an integrated woofer, and reduced further to a woofer-free 30W on the 42- and 48-inch versions. However, for those with an existing home cinema audio set-up, the LZ1500's slimmed down approach to it audio means access to the same image quality as the flagship LZ2000 without having to double up on a speaker system you might not need. The LZ1500 also comes with a swivel stand to give users some horizontal rotation.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
42-inch / TX-42LZ1500B£1,499Aug/Sep
48-inch / TX-48LZ1500B£1,599July
55-inch / TX-55LZ1500B£1,799July
65-inch / TX-65LZ1500B£2,299July

LZ1000

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Limited to just the 55- and 65-inch options, the LZ1000 also boasts much the same features and specs as the flagship LZ2000, although it has to make do with just Master OLED status rather than the full ‘Pro’ panel, which points to a slight drop in comparable performance.

As with the LZ1500, perhaps the most notable difference is the reduced audio package, with the LZ1000 using Cinema Surround Pro along with Dolby Atmos (which you’ll find across the range), with a similar 2-channel 30W speaker system to those previously listed 42- and 48-inch TVs. It also comes with same rotational swivel stand design.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
55-inch / TX-55LZ1000BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LZ1000BTBCTBC

Panasonic 4K OLED TVs for 2022

LZ980

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Moving into the more standard OLED EX panels, the LZ980 is otherwise largely similar in its features list to the LZ1000. The switch to OLEDs sees the continued use of the HCX Pro AI processor, but does mark the end of the heatsink tech seen in the Master OLED models. The LZ980 uses a similar twin-speaker 30W audio system with Cinema Surround Pro Sound to the LZ1000.

Other than that, and the new square pedestal stand, it ticks pretty much all the same boxes as the Master OLED models (including inputs), so while it might not have the same brightness potential of those TVs, it should be a very welcome addition to Panasonic’s OLED line-up.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
42-inch / TX-42LZ980B£1299.99July
48-inch / TX-48LZ980B£1399.99July
55-inch / TX-55LZ980B£1599.99July
65-inch / TX-65LZ980B£2099.99July

LZ800

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

From our UK-based perspective, the LZ800 appears to be exclusive to our home region, but that’s not to say it won’t also appear in other countries (or perhaps as a very similar variant). Though it’s availability may be limited, it does mark the introduction of OLED panels to the 8-series, and it echoes many of the same specs as the LZ980. Again, one difference is in the audio set-up with the Cinema Surround system now without ‘Pro’ status, but it’s otherwise a similarly impressive introduction to Panasonic’s OLED options.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
42-inch / TX-42LZ800BTBCTBC
48-inch / TX-48LZ800BTBCTBC
55-inch / TX-55LZ800BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LZ800BTBCTBC

Panasonic’s Core LED 4K TVs for 2022

LX940

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

With the OLED TVs geared largely for film and general TV use, these 4K LED-LCD displays also have one eye on sports fans and gamers, with the LX940 using the likes of HDR Cinema Display Pro. As mentioned previously, the whole Panasonic range maintains most of the key features, so the LX940 still comes the HCX Pro AI processor, all things Dolby and so on.

Besides the slightly unusual 43- and 49-inch displays (for when a 48-inch TV isn’t quite big enough), one of the few other differences is the slightly scaled down Cinema Surround system as seen with the LZ800. It’s also important to note that the LX940 is listed as being a European-only model, so those of you based in the US or elsewhere might need to look for other options, or possibly check to see if there any similar variations for your region.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX940BTBCTBC
49-inch / TX-49LX940BTBCTBC
55-inch / TX-55LX940BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LX940BTBCTBC
75-inch / TX-75LX940BTBCTBC

LX800

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Although still using the majority of the core feature list, as mentioned in the ‘core features’ section, the LX800 does see some more notable differences to its siblings than most. It’s the first Android TV in this list (so it doesn’t have the My Home Screen platform, or Alexa support) and it uses the base HCX processor rather than its Pro AI upgrade. Similarly, the 55 to 75-inch TVs drop to the HDR Cinema Display, while the 43- and 50-inch models come with Bright Panel Plus.

The LX800 also uses a simpler, but apparently improved, Surround Sound system and also comes with only HDMI 2.0 ports, so it doesn’t have all of those gamer-friendly features that come with HDMI 2.1, and subsequently uses the standard Game Mode set-up, rather than the expanded Extreme version. Not that all means that the LX800 is an altogether inferior option, it’s just offering up something different to the OLEDs and LX940, and it still boasts the likes of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, so it could be a very worthy consideration for those who don’t want to pay extra for lots of features they don’t have a day-to-day need for.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX800B£599Now
50-inch / TX-50LX800B£749Now
55-inch / TX-55LX800B£899Now
65-inch / TX-65LX800B£1,199Now
75-inch / TX-75LX800B£1,699Now

Panasonic’s LED TVs for 2022

LX720

Moving into the rest of Panasonic’s LED line-up, the 7-series follows the LX800 with matching screen sizes and the same Android TV platform. As well as a 4K Colour Engine for dedicated image processing, these models also boast an HDR Bright Panel. Besides noting some colour variations (the LX720 comes in silver, the LX710 in grey, and the LX700 in black), at the time of writing Panasonic hadn’t released all of the key details to highlight any further differences across the series and the wider 2022 line-up, so watch this space!

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX720BTBCTBC
50-inch / TX-50LX720BTBCTBC
55-inch / TX-55LX720BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LX720BTBCTBC
75-inch / TX-75LX720BTBCTBC

LX710

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX710BTBCTBC
50-inch / TX-50LX710BTBCTBC
55-inch / TX-55LX710BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LX710BTBCTBC
75-inch / TX-75LX710BTBCTBC

LX700

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX700BTBCTBC
50-inch / TX-50LX700BTBCTBC
55-inch / TX-55LX700BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LX700BTBCTBC
75-inch / TX-75LX700BTBCTBC

LX650

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

We do know a little more about the 6-series LEDs, with the LX650 the first to be listed on the Panasonic website courtesy of its 43- and 65-inch versions. The most notable difference between the LX650 and LX600 models is that the former offers a familiar Android TV option, while the latter comes with a Linux-based operating system in case you have you have something more specific in mind for your viewing needs.

Both models come with HDR support for HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision, along with Dolby Atmos and HDMI 2.1 ports. The LX650 also offers Bluetooth connectivity and comes “distinguished with a premium finish”, but we’d imagine that Android vs Linux option would be more of a defining factor if you had to choose between the two.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX650B£399Now
50-inch / TX-50LX650B£529Now
55-inch / TX-55LX650B£599Now
65-inch / TX-65LX650B£659Now

LX600

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
43-inch / TX-43LX600BTBCTBC
50-inch / TX-50LX600BTBCTBC
55-inch / TX-55LX600BTBCTBC
65-inch / TX-65LX600BTBCTBC

LS500

The LS500 offers up 24-, 32-, and 43-inch Full HD Android TVs, and kicks off Panasonic’s smaller-sized displays if you’re working with limited space or are looking for a second screen or perhaps something for the office or a gaming set-up. The LS500 has a non-4K Colour Engine and also used Bright Panels, and comes with the option for a black or silver finish.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
24-inch / TX-24LS500BTBCTBC
32-inch / TX-32LS500BTBCTBC
43-inch / TX-43LS500BTBCTBC

LS490

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Sitting just below the LS500 is the similarly Full HD LS490 that only comes in a 32-inch model. It offers HDR support with HDR10 and HLG (but no Dolby Vision), although it doesn’t have HDMI 2.1 inputs. It comes with a V-Audio sound system, using a 2-speaker set-up with a combined 12W output, and also offers Bluetooth connectivity and a USB Media Player.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
32-inch / TX-32LS490B£269Now

LS480

Panasonic 2022 TV lineup: Master OLED Pro to LED - all you need to know

Pretty much identical to the LS490 but with the added 24-inch option, the biggest difference is that the LS480 uses a 2K HD Ready panel, but it otherwise ticks most of the same boxes, with the likes of Google Assistant and Chromecast built-in.

Size / Model (UK)PriceAvailability
24-inch / TX-24LS480B£249Now
32-inch / TX-32LS480BTBCTBC

That’s just about it for Panasonic’s 2022 TV line-up but, as mentioned, you may well find a few other LEDs or some other variants depending on your region. Regardless, it’s an impressive-looking collection and the company has rarely let us down in the past, so it will be interesting to see how they perform, and how these TVs shape up against some of Panasonic’s competitors that may have one or two more headline-grabbing new additions to their own line-up.

There’s still a few blanks to be filled in, most notably regarding the pricing which can impact just how good these models compare in terms of value for money. But, while we shouldn’t rush to judgement too early, do feel free to let us know what you think about Panasonic’s options for the year ahead. Are you ready to go large on the 77-inch Master OLED Pro LZ2000 or is there a better (or more realistic) balance to be found a little lower down the pecking order?

Why not also check out our guides for LG, Samsung and Sony below to help you decide on the perfect TV for you?

TV News

45

LG 2022 TV Lineup: OLED and QNED models - everything you need to know

LG 2022 TV Lineup: OLED and QNED models - everything you need to know

by Ian Collen ·
A comprehensive guide to every LG TV set to arrive in the UK this year, with everything that's new and a full model list to help you consider your options.  
TV News

103

Sony TV 2022 Line-Up: QD OLED, OLED, Mini LED – All you need to know

Sony TV 2022 Line-Up: QD OLED, OLED, Mini LED – All you need to know

by Ian Collen ·
Our comprehensive guide to every notable Sony TV set to launch in the UK this year, complete with all that’s new and improved, and how the technologies shape up.  
TV News

35

Samsung 2022 TV line-up: QD-OLED and Neo QLED – all you need to know

Samsung 2022 TV line-up: QD-OLED and Neo QLED – all you need to know

by Ian Collen ·
A complete guide to all of the company’s main TV releases to help you weigh up all of your purchasing options for the year ahead.  

SOURCE: Panasonic (press releases and website)
IMAGES: Panasonic

Follow AVforums on Google News

To share your thoughts on the above, click the Discussion tab and post a reply.

Related Content

Samsung reveals wider 2024 TV lineup and pricing
  • By Ian Collen
  • Published
LG confirms G4 and C4 OLED TV pricing
  • By Ian Collen
  • Published
Roku teams up with Currys to launch new Logik Roku TVs
  • By Ian Collen
  • Published

Latest Headlines

Samsung reveals wider 2024 TV lineup and pricing
  • By Ian Collen
  • Published
LG confirms G4 and C4 OLED TV pricing
  • By Ian Collen
  • Published
Roku teams up with Currys to launch new Logik Roku TVs
  • By Ian Collen
  • Published
Back
Top Bottom