Invariably in your search for a flat panel TV you will be faced with the decision of LCD or plasma. There's a lot of good information on the web, however the technology is dynamic. Manufacturers scramble to close disadvantages and win market space. Your final decision on your new TV should be based upon your own eyes- go to the store and look at the LCD widescreen, and then look at the plasma TV next to it and choose what you like best. There are advantages to each type of TV- here are the top ten for LCDs.
1. No burn in - Static images can leave permanent ghost images in a plasma tv. Plasma manufacturers have developed some anti-burn in technology, be sure to check it's there before you pick a plasma over LCD.
2. Brighter - LCD TVs perform better in bright environments than their plasma cousins. If you have a well lit room, add a point for LCD.
3. Less glare - Hand in hand with a brighter picture, less glare means a better picture in the living room with picture windows.
4. Runs cooler - If you have two televisions of equal size- say a 42 LCD and 42" plasma TV, the LCD will run cooler. There's some debate, but generally speaking cooler is better for electronic components.
5. Less power- Watt for watt you will use less electricity with a LCD TV. It will probably only be a couple of dollars per month, but if you're ecology minded it's a point to remember.
6. Long display life - 60,000 hours - LCDs will typically at least a decade- possibly quite more depending upon your use. Plasmas have made some strides, but be sure to read the specifications if in doubt.
7. Lighter - LCD televisions are lighter- this may be important depending upon where you are considering mounting the television, and of less importance, shipping.
8. Smaller sizes available under 32" - LCDs are getting bigger, and plasmas are getting smaller, but right now if you're looking for a good HD TV under 32", it will be a LCD.
9. Performance at higher altitudes - Due to a pressure differential in the plasma gases inside a plasma display and outside it, plasma TVs have to use a bit more power to display a picture at altitudes above 6,000 feet or so. This differential results in a buzzing sound due to higher power required to render the picture, and sometimes the TV's fan will kick on. If you live at a higher altitude be sure to consider a LCD television, or make sure that your plasma has been specially built to handle the altitude.
10. Price - Prices are dynamic, but as LCDs get bigger and make inroads on the plasma market, there are some bargains to be had where competition is at its highest (say around 42"); and you can find LCDs that are less expensive than plasma.
You should also consider how your new TV will be used- there are certain disadvantages to LCD when it comes to blurring fast motion (read the specifications -- manufacturers are improving), viewing angle (also improving- but if you have a group that regularly watches TV be sure to form a semi circle around the TV in the store and check it). A LCD TV makes a great alternative to plasma.
Will Kinkaid is a LCD TV enthusiast - his favorite LCD TV source is http://lcdtvferret.com - You can visit the store (with reviews) at http://lcdtvferret.com/lcd-tv-store.
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