Plasma TV - Plasma TV Product Guide
PLASMA VS. LCD TECHNOLOGY
Before a consumer considers anything else, the first and most important decision to make is whether to purchase an LCD TV or a plasma TV. LCD and plasma are different types of TV technology, and both offer great viewing. Still, each has its own unique qualities that make one suitable over the other, depending on individual needs.
Pixels vs. film transistors
Plasma TV screens utilize hundreds of thousands of pixel cells to display color, while an LCD TV uses thin film transistors. Depending on what you want to use your television for, you might be better off with a certain type of technology.
Plasma TVs, due to their specific technology, generally offer a better picture in average or below average lighting conditions. LCD TVs offer better viewing in above average lighting conditions, like in a family room with many windows or a sun room.
Plus, individual pieces of data are clearer and easier to read on an LCD TV, making them a good choice for those who like to play games on their television. Plasma technology isn't as useful for computerized games because the fine detail isn't as clear.
TV RESOLUTION
Aspect ratio
Once the plasma vs. LCD TV decision is settled, the next consideration is the quality level of the television's resolution.
TV resolution is indicated by the television's aspect ratio. These numbers indicate the sharpness of the display, like "1024 by 768" or "1920 by 1080."
Most television experts agree that, for optimal quality, the ratio should be at least 1080 x 720. At this resolution level, the TV set will commonly be referred to as "High Definition."
Keep in mind these higher resolution television sets are not available in all screen sizes. Only the largest sets (those greater than 50 inches) offer the maximum aspect ratios.
TV FEATURES
TV screen size
While screen sizes above 50 inches are certainly appealing, consumers need to consider many factors before purchasing a TV screen with these dimensions.
If the room is small, a large TV screen may not be suitable. The large image may cause strain on the eyes if viewed from a relatively short distance, making viewing uncomfortable.
Keep in mind that if a smaller screen size is desired (less than 40 inches), it may be next to impossible to find a plasma TV. Smaller sizes are often available only in LCD.
Audio
All plasma and LCD televisions come with built-in speakers, but these speakers are often very basic and may require purchasing separate speakers or a home entertainment system.
There are no defined rules for the necessity of speakers. Some plasma and LCD TV's need better sound systems; others are adequate right out of the box.
The best thing to do is listen to the television sets on the store's display before you purchase and decide if the sound quality is good enough. If it isn't, then a set of speakers will need to be purchased.
Cost
For many, cost is going to be the bottom line determinant in the high-tech television buying decision. There is a great difference in price among different screen sizes and, most importantly, among different brands.
Obviously, a larger screen will set your finances back more than a smaller screen, but what surprises many buyers is how quickly the prices increase. Add just five more inches of screen size on a 45-inch set (roughly an eleven percent increase) and your price can easily increase by thirty percent or more. The reason is because the extra large sets have not experienced the high demand enjoyed by the smaller sets. Far fewer mega-size screens are manufactured, thus leading to an exponentially higher price due to the lack of high production.
If saving money is your goal, selecting a smaller screen is one way to cut your cost. But larger screens can still be purchased for a reasonable price if the consumer is willing to consider some of the lesser-known brands like Vizio or Olevia.
Potential buyers should also remember that LCD televisions, due to their slightly better resolution compared to a plasma TV, will cost about twenty to thirty-five percent more than a plasma television set with the same screen size.
TV picture quality/longevity
LCD TV's generally last a little bit longer than plasma TVs. Plasma TVs inevitably have some "burn-in." A burn-in occurs over time when certain colors become permanently etched into the screen. Also, over time, the cells on a plasma TV screen will slowly wear out and the brightness and color intensity will slowly fade.
Before you ditch the idea of buying a plasma set in favor of an LCD T, bear in mind that the differences are only slight and that each type of TV is designed to last for about 50,000 to 60,000 hours. Even at the low end, you could watch your plasma television five hours per day for the next 27 years. Chances are, the technology will have already become outdated and you will want a brand new television set long before your screen completely burns out.
THE BOTTOM LINE ON SELECTING A HIGH-TECH TV
The final buying decision must consider the differences between the viewing quality of a plasma TV vs. an LCD TV and the unique circumstances that would warrant the purchase of one to the other.
Among the thing to consider:
- Aspect ratio & contrast ratio (if viewing quality is important)
- Price
- Screen size
- Brand
Decide which TV is right for you before you visit an electronic store or shop online. Plasma and LCD televisions are expensive, and proper evaluation is crucial before spending money on something that may not suit your individual needs.
Get an idea of top models by brands by reading television reviews during your decision-making process.
