Plasma vs LCD televisions
Plasma vs LCD Televisions
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Plasma vs. LCD

Consumers have long been mystified by the big-screen battle between Plasma  and LCD  screens. Just about every manufacturer makes one of each, charges generally in the same range for either screen, lists a few dozens reason why that particular technology is amazing (on both technologies) and consumers are left to make a gut call. Print and video media are equally confounded by the two beasts, often issuing conflicting advice. This simple guide will provide shoppers with an easy-to-understand quick read that will hopefully help clear up some of the confusion.

Plasma Televisions

Plasma

Plasma TVs  are typically slightly less expensive than their LCD peers. Plasma TVs can be a blessing and a burden, and consumer opinions are divided. However, when it comes to the specifications and capabilities, Plasma TVs pack a punch.

Pros

  • High color contrast ratios emphasize deep blacks and shadows.
  • Highest contrast, color saturation and picture accuracy available on the market.
  • Quicker image refresh rates makes sure movement is crystal clear.
  • Can be clearly viewed from various angles

Cons

  • Can suffer from periodic "burn in." Burn in occurs when an image is static on the screen for a long period of time. An imprint of such an object will stay impressed on the screen for several minutes after the image moves.
  • Can suffer from significant glare in areas with lots of ambient light.
  • Significantly lower Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) than any other kind of television.
  • High power draw.

LCD TVs

LCD

LCD televisions  are a few years younger than plasma televisions and so they're slightly more expensive. LCDs have their own good points and bad points. However, increased resolution make LCDs the must-have for those who detailed gaming.

Pros

  • Screens are extremely bright and do not suffer from ambient light-induced glare.
  • Higher resolution means more detail on the screen
  • More picture control and flexibility.

Cons

  • Best viewed from within a 30-degree arc.
  • Lower image refresh rate can lead to blurring in HD.
  • High brightness can sometimes lead to poor portrayal of shadows under ideal viewing conditions (i.e. viewed head-on with no ambient light source present).

Related Buying Guides

Plasma Televisions

LCD Televisions

Televisions

DVD Players

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Article started by faustlast updated by hhumbert