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Introduction
Conventional CRT TVs are almost a thing of the past – the future belongs firmly to flat screen TVs. The sizes and colours of flat screen TVs available today are many and varied, but so too is the quality.
In general, there are two major product categories: LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and Plasma TVs.
As there are only a few small plasma TVs the choice between LCD and plasma only really becomes relevant if you are looking at a 37 inch or larger TV screen. While both systems offer a high image quality, potential buyers should consider the following issues before purchasing.
As with many things in life the choice of the right television depends on the way it is used. Where should it be placed? Do I want to enjoy movies at cinema quality or to play console games instead?
What’s my type? LCD or plasma?
LCDs work with liquid crystals. These create an image by breaking the light in a certain way. To avoid reflections and other interferences most devices are featured with matt fronts. Compared to plasma TVs colours are more luminous and provide brilliant colours even in bright rooms. However, many TVs have problems displaying a deep black, which can sometimes appear faded. In addition, most will only deliver a high quality image if the viewer sits directly in front of it. If you’re watching from more than a 45 degree visual angle (i.e. outside the principal axis of the TV) the contrast is reduced and the image can appear grey. This is a result of the LCD backlight format.
LCD TVs
Plasma devices were at the forefront of the flat screen movement. The technology is based upon ionised gas or plasma, which is illuminated through electronic impulses. The devices deliver true colours even outside the principal axis. As plasma has a very short response time it is perfectly suited for quick image changes such as sport broadcasts.
However, one problem with plasma TVs is the so-called burning-in or after image. Do you watch a lot of non-standard format videos (black bars) or play console games with static graphics? If this is the case, the overcharging of the light beams can sometimes burn a visible pattern into the TV screen. This can also occur through static TV station logos. This is much more unlikely with newer plasma models but the risk should still be taken into account.
Plasma TVsNext Image quality (resolution and contrast)
The resolution and to a lesser degree the contrast determine the image quality and sharpness. Flat screens feature single fields of determined points which produce light patterns known as pixels. The multiplied horizontal and vertical amount of pixels, for example 640x480 or 1280x720, represents the resolution.
Currently digital content is delivered in three formats: 480i/ 480p (704x480 widescreen/ 640x480 4:3 format), 720p (1280x720) as well as 1080p and 1080i for antenna reception (1920x1080). Products with more than 900.000 pixels (1280x720, 1366x768 or 1920x1080) are defined as high definition (HD). They are ideally suited for broadcast or movies in HD.”HD ready” is an industry standard confirming the quality. Other common industry standards are “HD-Ready 1080p” and “Full HD”.
“HD-Ready” means that the TV is able to show high definition broadcasts with a resolution of 1280x720. This resolution is necessary to carry the “HD-Ready” logo. “Full HD” and “HD-Ready 1080p” currently offer the maximum resolution of 1920x1080 and therefore even better images. “HD-Ready” devices can also receive “Full HD” signals but will display them in a reduced format. With that said, only a few TV stations are broadcasting in HD quality at the moment. The highest resolution is currently deployed by DVD and Blu-Ray players.
The contrast ratio refers to the brightest and darkest light value, which can be displayed at the same time. LCDs should have a ratio between 500:1 and 1500:1 (bright:dark). Plasma TVs start at 1200:1; very good contrast ratios start at 1900:1. Plasma technology hasn’t yet reached a perfect black value as the remaining single pixel discharge creates a dark grey illuminated panel, which is balanced by a higher contrast value. TVs with high contrast values show black scenarios in a true black and many detailed subtle shadows. In comparison, TVs with a low contrast appear grey in black areas and the whole image can look rather flat.
For TVs in living rooms a contrast of at least 400:1 is recommended. For rooms with predominantly artificial lighting like home cinemas you should aim for a contrast of at least 2000:1.
Some manufacturers also have values for dynamic contrasts. These adjust the background lighting according to the image content. For example, when watching a film like “Ice Age” which is dominated by light colours, the dynamic contrast is very high. For dark movies such as “Alien” the TV automatically decreases the contrast. Good dynamic contrast values for light and dark scenarios start around 5000:1. However, the dynamic contrast cannot compensate for an original low contrast value.
For better colour handling most devices have an additional colour enhancer which optimises the fundamental colours. This should have at least 10 Bits.
Previous | Next
Audio quality
Most TVs today feature good integrated speakers with at least 15 x 15 watts. However, those values do not reveal any detail about the volume range or sound quality. As the real sound quality is dependent on the actual processing and the proportions of the room in which it is played, product reviews and tests can offer valuable information. If purchasing a large plasma TV attention bear in mind that stand and speakers are often sold separately. On the other hand, with large LCDs they are usually included.
TV signal
The transfer from analog to digital TV has already begun in the UK. If you don’t have a cable connection or satellite reception with the relevant receiver, you should ensure that your new TV supports DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting Terrestrial) either via an integrated or separate receiver. However, traditional antennae and cable signals are often not as good as displayed as with conventional CRT TVs since they were built for HD. Flat screens have the advantage for digital signals, DVDs or video games.
Plasma TVs by Built in Digital TV Tuner
Previous | Next Connections
It is worth taking a closer look at the devices which you will want to connect to the TV. Relevant connections should be an integral part of the shopping list. To avoid a complicated exchange of cables it is also worthwhile ensuring that the model you choose has several plug and socket connections.
While SCART connections are the most popular audio and video connections, HDMI enables the highest quality digital transmission, which is ideal for flat screens. HDMI already comes as standard with new high quality DVD, multimedia and Blu-Ray players.
To connect PC or data storage special PC and USB connectors are needed. If a particular connection is missing it usually can be refitted at an extra charge.
Power consumption
The power consumption plays an integral role when choosing a flat screen TV. At an average viewing time of four hours a day 100 watts more can easily account for additional expenses of as much as £300 per year. LCDs usually consume less energy than a similar size of plasma TV. Small LCDs are available with an energy consumption of 120 watts and generally should not have more than 200 watts. A plasma TV with a 37 inch or 94 centimetre screen should not consume more than 260 watts and generally should not exceed 380 watts. Previous | Next Size and price
LCD TVs are usually 15 to 50 inches in size. However, high end products can have a screen size of up to 65 inches (165 centimetres). Prices can range from £300 to £2,500 or more for devices starting at 30 inches.
Small LCD TVs are available from £100. Although the same characteristics are important when purchasing a LCD device less than 37 inches in size, lower resolutions are sufficient as well. HD quality is not needed. As some LCD computer screens can also be used as TVs it is possible to kill two birds with one stone when purchasing a smaller device. There are also 9.6 inch portable LCD devices.
Plasma TVs which are solely available from a 100 centimetre screen size onwards are usually cheaper than comparable LCD TVs. Since the overall production of LCD TVs is more expensive only recently larger LCDs became available. While this situation has changed slightly they still tend to be more expensive than plasma devices.
Viewing distance
For different screen sizes the following viewing distances are recommended:
| Diagonal screen size |
Minimum distance to the screen |
Maximum distance to the screen |
| 30 Inch | 1.15 m | 2.30 m |
| 34 Inch | 1.30 m | 2.60 m |
| 42 Inch | 1.60 m | 3.20 m |
| 47 Inch | 1.80 m | 3.65 m |
| 50 Inch | 1.90 m | 3.80 m |
| 55 Inch | 2.00 m | 3.95 m |
| 60 Inch | 2.30 m | 4.60 m |
| 65 Inch | 2.45 m | 4.90 m |
Previous | Next Tip: TV sizes are usually stated in inches. One inch equals 2.54 centimetres. If you watch a lot of cinema style movies the TV should support 16:9 formats. Also, depending on the TV size various viewing distances are recommended. For a 30 inch TV the recommended viewing distance is between 1.15 and 2.3 metres, for a 55 inch TV between 2.00 and 3.95 metres respectively.
Previous | NextMiscellaneous
If all these points are considered it should be easy to choose the right TV for your individual requirements. If you plan to mount the TV to the wall you should consider a smaller sized device and ensure that the wall fixture is able to carry the weight of the TV. There are different fixtures aligned to the different TV models. In transport plasma screens should be kept upright as otherwise the screen could break under its own weight. There is no danger with LCD devices.
Large TVs are not only deeper and heavier but also radiate more heat. Ideally the devices should be placed with some distance to the wall. Also, pay attention to the ease of use. If possible test if the menu follows a logical set up. A timer and electronic TV guides can also add some comfort.
Summary
The pros and cons of LCD and plasma TVs summarised:
|
LCD TV |
Plasma TV |
| Power consumption |
Efficient (50-150s watt approx) |
High (280-400 watts approx) |
| True colours |
Glaring possible |
Very natural from all angles |
| Burning-in |
Not possible |
Likely depending on the system |
| Black value |
Good |
Very good |
| Lifetime |
Around 60.000 operating hours |
Around 30.000 – 60.000 operating hours |
| Typical size |
Usually only up to 45 |
inches Up to 65 inches |
| Contrast values |
Relatively high |
High |
| Audio quality |
Depends on the manufacturer |
Depends on the manufacturer |
| Connections |
Depends on the manufacturer |
Depends on the manufacturer |
| HDTV ability |
Most of the time |
Most of the time |
| Price |
Screens of up to 37” tend to be cheaper than plasma |
Larger screens are cheaper than the LCD equivalent |
New models are rolled out in ever-shorter periods of time and the choice of features is larger than ever before. More and more devices now have image-in-image and gallery features. The gallery feature is essentially a standby mode to show high resolution images either from your photo collection or stock images. Many manufacturers also offer storage card readers and USB ports to connect MP3 player and digital cameras to the TV. Some devices even offer WLAN and Internet connections.
Finally, it can be safely said that plasma TVs are more suitable for home cinemas, where a larger TV screen is required for the best experience. For devices of less than 37 inches LCD technology is more suitable, while between 37 and 42 inches customers are pretty much spoilt for choice. However, the subsequent costs (such as energy consumption) of plasma TVs are usually higher.
With all this said, the most important thing is to get a personal experience of the TV you’re considering. A great starting point is the review section of the Ciao community, which can help you find the best possible TV for you. Previous "Do you like our Buying Guides? Tell us your opinion and write a review"
Reviews of LCD TVs »
TV at its best!
Advantages: A real Looker, Efficient and great picture Disadvantages: Nothing to report
The Samsung LE40B530 is a thing to behold! it looks elegant and stylish and keeps up with the usual samsung look I am used to seeing. I think as far as tvs go it is by far the finest looking television on the market at the moment. The picture quality is brilliant and the sound is sharp, clear and is high quality. The steps of installation are simple to folow and made easy by the smiplicity of the remote control which is also simple and efficient ...
ChristianStead 01.11.2009 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Samsung LE40B530
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How is the Picture Qual... How is the Sound Quality? Ease of Installation Range of Features Value for Money |
A Decent High Quality Flat Screen?
Advantages: Ultra Slim, 4 HDMIs, 2 USB, Ethernet Port, Ultra High Quality Disadvantages: Spaghetti junction behind the tv with wires
...cool features and outstanding facts Samsung have hid inside this amazing machine! to start samsung isn't the UK's biggest selling TV brand for nothing, you know. Graphics and vision that's left its rivals trailing this new flat screen is not to be overlooked, Samsung has this year launched not just a couple of TVs using LED backlighting, but a whole new category of LED TVs, comprising no less than three different ranges. And, rather excitingly, it's ... ...this wasn't already decent enough, Samsung has also conjured up a special wall mount bracket option for the B8000 series that reduces the gap between the TV and your wall to just 0.6in, while using just a single screw. Impressive. This one has a party trick up its sleeve thought, unlike most ulta slim flat screens this one has somehow managed to squeeze both analogue and digital tuners into its svelte form. There's even a huge connections roster ...
swimmer115 02.12.2009 · Read full review
Review of Samsung UE46B8000
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How is the Picture Qual... How is the Sound Quality? Ease of Installation Range of Features Value for Money |
getting the value for your money
Advantages: Excellent picture quality and audio quality, Improved add ons Disadvantages: I dont see any
...it is magnificient on the Samsung UE40B7020 because of its excellent graphic quality. Interestingly, Samsung has infused it with two USB porrts,four HDMI inputs and a TV tuner into the back of these edifice without any effect on the slimness. The sound quality of this television is also a high one. Another very interesting thing about this device is that you can enjoy your JPEG and MPEG files stored on other device on this television by connecting ... ...brother does connect his MP3 device to this LCD and it is truly amazing. It also has internal memory with premium content. The audio capability is further enhanced by the integrated woofer on it.
Connecting your playstation 3 to this television just simply gets you blown away. Games especially soccer just makes you love this television more and more. This television also plays all sort of files and even the h.264 through both wireless dlna and USB ...
donnaheff 13.09.2009 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Samsung UE40B7020
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How is the Picture Qual... How is the Sound Quality? Ease of Installation Range of Features Value for Money |
Sony packs a punch
Advantages: Stunning when used with blu ray and high definition broadcasts Disadvantages: easily smudged screen and initially confusing menu
Sony are just about the top of the league when it comes to audovisual fare. The Sony KDL40W5500 accordingly costs a pretty penny although if you know where to go it can be had for a pretty reasonable cost compared to lesser rivals. The set may look pretty but there are prettier rivals. The picture, when used with your own digital service or DVD, is pretty good with sharp colours and clear images. The sound is clear and distinct. I would recommend ... ...since the screen easily picks up smudges from little fingers and pens/pencils can easily damage the rather fragile screen.
All well and good you say but is it worth the money? Well kind of. The set really comes into its own when its doing what it is supposed to do with high definition broadcasts and movies. This is when the super sharp pictures and cinema like sound really come to life and you wonder who teleported you to the local cinema. It's ...
Kebabish1 29.10.2009 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Sony KDL40W5500U
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How is the Picture Qual... How is the Sound Quality? Ease of Installation Range of Features Value for Money |
philips 42" tv
Advantages: cinema experience at home Disadvantages: none that i can think of
...upgraded are tv to the philips 42" lcd.. I love this tv, Its like sitting in your own personal cinema. Once i bought this as soon as you switch it on, it will tune itself in for you.. There is lots of different picture settings widescreen, super zoom even settings to make it go widescreen and keep the subtitles if required. The sound is fantastic on this television, especially if your into your music like i am.. Its so easy to clean, I just rub a ...
leedyer 25.11.2009 · Read full review
Review of Philips 42PFL7404H
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How is the Picture Qual... How is the Sound Quality? Ease of Installation Range of Features Value for Money |
Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L - motherboard - ATX - iP31
ATX - LGA775 Socket - None - Sound card - Network adapter - compatible with:Pentium Extreme Edition, Core 2 Extreme, Celeron 400 sequence, Pentium 4, Pentium Dual Core, Pentium 4 Extreme Edition, Pentium D, Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Duo
(*) Reviews by Ciao members
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