Introduction
High-Definition televisions are often on the list of big-ticket sales at many Black Friday retailers. A good television should hopefully last you for several years, so this is not a decision to rush into! Big discounts on these expensive sets can tempt you into a quick purchase, but do your homework beforehand and you'll wind up with a great TV for a great price.
This buying guide should give you the basics you need to make an informed decision in buying your new set. We are making recommendations based on the overall value - the bang for your buck - and not necessarily the highest of the high end. Expect a range of options that should suit all budgets!
This buying guide should give you the basics you need to make an informed decision in buying your new set. We are making recommendations based on the overall value - the bang for your buck - and not necessarily the highest of the high end. Expect a range of options that should suit all budgets!
The great debate: Plasma vs. LCD
HDTVs are produced using two competing technologies: plasma and LCD. The technological details behind both would require much more space than we have here, but good comparisons are available at this site and in this video.
To summarize very briefly, LCD technology is generally the most versatile. This is what is found in most flat-panel computer monitors, laptop screens, etc. It works well in a variety of light conditions and is available in the largest range of sizes. Plasma is most true to high-quality images - especially in rendering deep blacks - and will generally produce the best image quality at a given size.
Many of the problems that were reported about each technology have since been improved to the point where the advantages to each technology are slim. Plasma previously reigned in avoiding motion blur, until LCDs introduced 120 Hz refresh rates so that blur is imperceptible to the human eye (but you'll pay more for the faster refresh rate). LCDs claimed longer life-spans until plasma manufacturers toughened their panels to last just as long as LCDs.
However, there are still some downsides to each. LCDs have a narrower viewing angle than plasma sets - be sure to test out the TV in advance by standing as far away as you would normally sit and testing the full range of viewing angles. Plasma sets are sometimes more susceptible to glare (due to their glass screens) - if your TV will be located in an area with lots of natural light, consider an LCD. Finally, although many plasma sets are Energy Star certified, their power consumption is still higher than an LCD. If you're motivated by green (in more ways than one), you might stick to an LCD.
A word on sizing: all other considerations aside, plasma sets simply are rarely less than 40", with only a few offerings in the 30" range. If you're looking for a medium to small TV (such as for a smaller living room, a game room or a bedroom), then LCD is your best bet by default.
To summarize very briefly, LCD technology is generally the most versatile. This is what is found in most flat-panel computer monitors, laptop screens, etc. It works well in a variety of light conditions and is available in the largest range of sizes. Plasma is most true to high-quality images - especially in rendering deep blacks - and will generally produce the best image quality at a given size.
Many of the problems that were reported about each technology have since been improved to the point where the advantages to each technology are slim. Plasma previously reigned in avoiding motion blur, until LCDs introduced 120 Hz refresh rates so that blur is imperceptible to the human eye (but you'll pay more for the faster refresh rate). LCDs claimed longer life-spans until plasma manufacturers toughened their panels to last just as long as LCDs.
However, there are still some downsides to each. LCDs have a narrower viewing angle than plasma sets - be sure to test out the TV in advance by standing as far away as you would normally sit and testing the full range of viewing angles. Plasma sets are sometimes more susceptible to glare (due to their glass screens) - if your TV will be located in an area with lots of natural light, consider an LCD. Finally, although many plasma sets are Energy Star certified, their power consumption is still higher than an LCD. If you're motivated by green (in more ways than one), you might stick to an LCD.
A word on sizing: all other considerations aside, plasma sets simply are rarely less than 40", with only a few offerings in the 30" range. If you're looking for a medium to small TV (such as for a smaller living room, a game room or a bedroom), then LCD is your best bet by default.
What's in a name: Brand-names
Many stores have their own in-house brands. Best Buy has Insignia, Walmart has Digistar. While these will provide a good value and will probably be indistinguishable from other brands in terms of image quality, the parts used are sometimes sub-standard and getting service, should your TV need repair, can sometimes be very difficult. On the other hand, many consumers use these TVs without complaint. Weigh the benefits of purchasing a more established brand name, such as Panasonic, Sony, or Samsung against the additional cost. A Final Note
There are lots of good choices out there for HDTVs. Use the variety to your advantage and choose carefully! You will almost certainly be able to find a good deal, no matter your budget, as long as you think out your purchase in advance. Do a little research, check out your existing setup, and maybe even hit the stores early to compare TVs. Then go forth and enjoy a superb picture and what will hopefully be a great deal! Read the entire article here http://bfads.net/Helpful-HDTV-Buying-Tips/Page1 
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