Smart

The "burn-in" problem was fixed years ago. Today's plasma TVs use phosphors that are faster in action and decay and more efficient, so the technology has evolved to a point where permanent burn-in is harder to achieve. They also use a technology called "pixel Orbiter" that "rotates" static pictures. I'm not saying that "burn in" won't happen, just that it's a lot harder to achieve. Early LED TV's also suffered from burn in problems. And yes, you can still "burn in" a modern LED tv also.

Don't worry about the "smart" features, you can simply buy a Google ChromeCast for $35 and get the "smart" stuff. I just bought my mom a Samsung 43" plasma and it has an exceptionally good picture. The cost was only $312 at BestBuy. Soooo, add the ChromeCast and you're at about $350 for the whole shebang...

-RW-

A little off topic, but I've noticed that the asking price of used plasmas have risen in 2014.

Regarding wi-fi enabled TVs, you should actually try out the internet apps. It makes a big difference in usability. I have a smart TV and a smart Blu-Ray. They work equally well, but you could also attach a spare computer to the TV for internet connectivity.

+1 Prpixel. Working with flatscreen monitors in Broadcast TV, have never had a Plasma develop burn-in. Many of the LEDs however, have ghost images burned-in.

The samsung 8500 series plasmas are smart. Incredible reviews. Looking into one myself. If you want to do smart with an add on like Apple TV or Roku you can buy the 5300 series for about a third of the price of the 8500 but you may have screen reflection issues in a bright room.