If you’ve been to the electronics store recently, you’ve probably been boggled and intrigued with all the choices in HD (high definition) flat panel (flat screen) TVs these days. Whether you are crafting a home theater or just need a new TV, this guide will help you sift through the numbers and bring home the best TV for your needs.


LCD vs. LED vs. Plasma HDTVs

The basic technology of how flat screen HDTVs work falls into three categories, each of which have the pros and cons:

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) televisions work by shining light through a thin layer of liquid. The electrically-charged liquid crystals bend and twist to refract or block the light and create the screen picture. In a standard LCD HDTV, the backlight is provided by fluorescent bulbs. LCD HDTVs have some pros and cons:

  • Super Sharp: LCD technology creates a very sharp digital image that is more highly defined than plasma, but also less natural looking.
  • Brightness: Compared with plasmas, LCD TVs are brighter overall, making them easier to view in a lighted room. They also have less screen glare than plasmas, although different brands have different screen coatings.
  • Thin and Lightweight: At just a few inches thick, LCD TVs are easily wall-mounted. They also come in the smallest sizes, with a range from 19” to 65” inches measured diagonally.
  • Energy Saving: LCDs are more energy-efficient than plasma.
  • Viewing Angle: LCD TVs are a little more difficult to watch at an angle. The color or sharpness can distort if you’re looking at it from the side.

The newest game in town, LED (Light Emitting Diode) HDTVs are actually just LCD TVs that are back-lit with LED bulbs instead of fluorescent. They boast:

  • High Brilliance: LED TVs usually have sharper color and contrast than LCD or plasma TVs.
  • Most Energy Saving: LED TVs are the most energy efficient of any TV.
  • Very Thin and Lightweight: LED TVs are also thinner and lighter than LCD or plasma TVs.
  • Longer Lifespan: LED TVs tend to last longer than LCD TVs.

Plasma HDTVs work by electrically stimulating a thin layer of gas-filled chambers. Unlike LCDs that work by blocking or refracting light, the gases in plasma TVs actually light up in various colors, creating each pixel of the screen. Their main features are:

  • Larger Size: Plasma TVs have the largest screen sizes, starting at 42 inches. They’re also thicker than LCD TVs.
  • Richer Colors and Deeper Blacks: While LCD TVs are brighter, plasmas have richer colors and deeper blacks, making them easier to view in a darkened room.
  • Smoother Motion: Movement on screen is smoother with plasma TVs than LCDs. Plasma TVs are often described as more “film like,” often making them the first choice for home theater rooms and sports viewing.
  • Wider Viewing Angle: Plasma screens have a wider viewing angle than LCD and LED TVs, so they’re good for viewing from the sides or from below.
  • Use More Power: Plasma TVs consume more electricity than LCDs or LEDs.


Flat Screen HDTV Specs

Once you have a general idea of the type and size of TV you want, there are different levels of quality to choose from based on:

Screen resolution is how many pixels, or crystal/gas units, are on the screen. Higher resolution means better picture quality. The most common resolutions are 720p (720 pixels high) or 1080p (1080 pixels high). While both are considered hi-def, 1080 is now considered the standard for HD television broadcasts and Blu-ray movies.

This is the speed at which the screen can refresh its pixels. Common refresh rates are 60Hz (60 times per second, the most economical choice), 120Hz (standard hi-def), and 240Hz and up (high-end TVs).

The contrast ratio tells you the whitest white and the blackest black that the TV can display. Static contrast numbers tell you the ratio the TV can display at the same time, while dynamic contrast gives the range the TV can produce. A higher contrast ratio is better, so 4,000,000:1 is better than 120,000:1. Measurements of contrast ratio aren’t standardized, making it hard to compare numbers.


Flat Screen HDTV Features

Newer HDTVs have many available features, including:

  • 3D Display: Three dimensional technology adds realistic depth to the HDTV and is the newest rage. It requires a 3D capable TV, special 3D glasses, and 3D programming (such as 3D broadcasts, 3D DVDs, or 3D Blu-Ray disks).
  • Internet Hook-Up: Some TVs now come equipped with a built-in Internet connection, either through a wired Ethernet cable or a Wi-Fi adapter (usually not included). With Internet connectivity, you can access online movies from websites such as Netflix, Blockbuster, Vudu, and Hulu. Most have a proprietary “Apps” interface, rather than full web browsing. Internet connectivity is already a common feature of Blu-Ray players and gaming systems, so if you use one of these devices, you may not need it on your TV.
  • Computer Input: Some HDTVs have inputs for your computer, allowing you to use your TV as a large monitor. This is great for viewing photos, surfing the net, or watching videos from your computer.
  • Other Inputs: Make sure the TV has enough ports to connect all of your gear. If you’re into gaming, DVDs, Blu-rays, and audio systems, be sure there’s room to connect everything. Some TVs even come with memory card slots and ports for connecting cameras.
  • Screen Finish: Some HDTVs offer an optional matte screen finish that cuts down on glare and reflections.

Further Information

Editorial Contributors
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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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