Panasonic TC-P50U1 Plasma HDTV Review - Remote Control

Remote Control Summary
Editorial Note: This is a review of the Panasonic TC-P50U1. Test results are for this model, but should indicate the general performance of other sizes in the TC-PxxU1 series. The TC-PxxU1 series includes the following models: TC-P42U1, TC-P46U1, and TC-P50U1.  Read here for more details on series differences.
• The remote control is uncomfortable to hold • The buttons squeak and response time is slow • Otherwise, an adequate remote
	Calibration	Page 8 of 18	Connectivity

Ergonomics & Durability (4.5)

The remote control for the Panasonic TC-P50U1 is not the best we've seen. Sure, it feels solid and it's lightweight, but it's just not comfortable to hold. The finger groove on the underside is positioned all way towards the front, which is not at all useful for accessing the volume and channel up/down buttons. Also, some of the buttons squeak when you press them, which is just plain annoying. 

Button Layout & Use (4.75)

A remote control is useless if you can't figure out how to use it. Well, bad news. The Panasonic TC-P50U1's remote is pretty poor in this regard. The basic functionality is all straightforward enough: you can easily spot the volume, channel up/down, and power buttons. But the Menu button is frustratingly hard to find, especially in a dark room. Then there are those prominently placed R, G, B, and Y buttons, with no obvious functionality (hint: they're used for various and infrequently accessed functions in the menu). Panasonic, take a tip from LG next time you need to design the remote control. Simplicity is key. 

Programming & Flexibility (1.0)

The Panasonic TC-P50U1 can control a select number of other Panasonic devices, but is not a truly programmable remote control.

All Models in the TC-PxxU1 Series
This is a review of the Panasonic TC-P50U1. The other sizes of HDTVs in this series should be similar in terms of performance and usability. For details about any differences, click on the image to jump to the Series Comparison page.
Panasonic TC-P42U1 42 inches	Panasonic TC-P46U1 46 inches	Panasonic TC-P50U1 50 inches