Late last year, Panasonic made it official. They will exit the plasma TV market - the last TVs have already been produced. This is the last chance to buy one of Panasonic’s plasma TVs.
Gone by March 2014
An era ends when Panasonic pulls the plug on its plasma TV division, but it was simply not a profitable business for them. All plasma operations will close down by March 2014, but the last plasma TV was produced in December 2013. However, it is still possible to get your hands on one of Panasonic’s much-acclaimed plasma TVs, which many consumers have chosen to do while waiting for 4K and OLED prices to come down.
USA: Price & availability check
Availability of the value-for-money ST60 is drying up quickly. It is very hard to find in 50, 60, and 65” sizes, but is still available in 55”.
The VT60 is still available in the smallest 55” version as well as the 60” and 65”.
The limited edition ZT60 is also still available, but not many are left in stock.
Europe: Price & availability check
The affordable ST60 is still in stock from some retailers in 42” and 50”, but is harder to find in 55”. The 65” is more or less finished.
The slightly more expensive GT60 is harder to find, but is still available in 42” and 50”.
The flagship VT65 is still in stock many places in 50“ and 55“, but if you want the larger 65” model you need to move fast.
FlatpanelsHD took note of the prices on the day that Panasonic announced their exit. Most models have actually become cheaper since October, contrary to Pioneer’s exit where people hoarded the Kuro plasma TVs. Only the GT60 that is available exclusively in Europe has become more expensive.
Panasonic's plasma exit is closer than ever – but it is not too late.