How to choose a Flat screen TV

moedean

Apr 24, 2008

Electronics

Know before you go, doing a little research first will help you choose the right TV for your money. Did you know there are difference between a Plasma flat screen TV and a LCD flat screen TV? Here are a few highlights to help you on your way to purchasing your new flat screen television.

Decide on what brand of flat screen TV you want to buy, there are a lot out on the market today. Some of the top brands are:

Sony
Panasonic
Samsung
Toshiba
Hitachi
Philips

Most important decide on the display resolution you want

Resolution	Pixels	HDTV	Progressive Scan	Wide Screen	Networks/Sources
1080p	1920 x 1080	Yes	Yes	Yes	Blu-ray, Full HD, PS3 game system
1080i	1920 x 1080	Yes	No	Yes	NBC, CBS, USA, HBO, Xbox 360
720p	720 x 1208	Yes	Yes	Yes	Fox, ABC, ESPN, DoD, Xbox 360
480p	852 x 480	No	Yes	Yes	Progressive scan DVD players, Wii

LCD or Plasma

LCD	Plasma
Weighs less and can be easily mounted.	Faster pixel response time
Screens reflect very little light, allowing these TV to maintain levels in well-lighted room.	Higher brightness and contrast levels
Lower power usage	Because of the individual pixels these TV's create deeper blacks and better contrast, looks more cinematic.
Images look brighter and have fewer problems with glare	Burn-in caused by static imaging causing ghost imaging on the screen over time
May have retained pixel charge, which can produce ghosting	Heavy and needs extra support for mounting on the wall
Can also have stuck pixels	Uses a lot of power and runs hotter
Price range can run from $270.00 - $8000.00	Price range can run from $700.00 - $9000.00