- In this report
- Overview
- TV types
- Energy costs of big-screen TVs
ELECTRONICS FORUMS  Get real-world advice from others about choosing a new TV, digital camera, computer or cell phone. |
March 2008
Match game
See which display suits your needs
LCD TVs
Common sizes: 17 to 52 inches
Pros: Wider range of sizes and greater choice of 1080p sets than plasmas. Lighter weight. Brighter images. Most have no reflections from screen. No risk of burn-in. Use less power. Slim.
Cons: Most have limited viewing angle. Don’t match plasmas for deepest blacks and smooth motion.
Common sizes: 17 to 52 inches
Pros: Wider range of sizes and greater choice of 1080p sets than plasmas. Lighter weight. Brighter images. Most have no reflections from screen. No risk of burn-in. Use less power. Slim.
Cons: Most have limited viewing angle. Don’t match plasmas for deepest blacks and smooth motion.
Plasma TVs
Common sizes: 42 to 60 inches
Pros: Virtually unlimited viewing angle. Deeper blacks and better contrast than on LCDs. No motion blur. More screen for the money. Slim.
Cons: Shiny screens show reflections in bright rooms. Images may leave a temporary or permanent impression. Use more power. Fewer 1080p plasma sets than 1080p LCDs.
Rear-projection TVs
Common sizes: 50 to 70 inches
Pros: Most screen for the money. Wide selection of 1080p sets.
Cons: Bigger than flat panels, mostly 12 to 20 inches deep. Narrower viewing angle than on plasmas. Must periodically replace bulb, which costs $200 to $300. Have been more repair-prone than flat panels.
