This article is the first from a series that will try to make things easier for you when considering a choice for a plasma or an LCD TV. We will explain the main advantages that you, as an user, can enjoy, and how you can get the best from your buy. Truth be told, with all the technology advances nowadays, such choices are not exactly easy, and guides written by people interested in plasma vs LCD TV competition can really come in handy.The legitimate question regarding which is best in plasma vs LCD TV battle can only be answered by taking into consideration what you look for in a flat screen TV, and which are your particular needs. We are talking here not only about what kind of programs you intend to watch, but also other aspects like price versus quality. While there cannot be an absolute winner in plasma vs LCD TV challenge, every buyer can make a sound choice, based on reliable information.Which one has the best picture?Whenever we go shopping for a new TV set, we cannot help but desire to purchase a model that will enhance our experience when watching television. There has been and there still is a lively debate on this issue, although the balance gets tipped off towards the plasma models, as they can deliver better contrast.The plasma superiority can be explained, based on the fact that a plasma model can achieve true black in a picture, while an LCD still falls behind, due to its backlight that lets light pass between pixels. On the other hand, LCD TVs offer more flexibility as they come in smaller sizes, and they can be used safely as computer monitors or for playing games for extended periods of time.Reasons for buying a plasma
Solid picture quality: It does not matter at which angle you watch the plasma screen, you will get the same picture quality, which does not happen with LCD TV’s, which are prone to a drop in picture quality when viewed from an angle.
Uniform colors: Color saturation is not affected in the same way it is with an LCD TV, where light leakage may occur or certain areas of the screen could present uniformity problems.
Better price for larger models: If you are looking for a larger flat screen TV, then this should be your choice, as larger plasmas are sold at more convenient prices. This situation is changing all the time, especially during shopping season (Black Friday, Christmas), so shop around before taking a decision.
Lower response time: This particular feature is enjoyed by sports fans, as a lower response time gives better accuracy for fast moving images, like we see when we watch a game. Reasons for buying an LCD TV
Lower prices: The main advantage that LCD has over plasma is its price, as there are many models that can be purchased for less money than you would spend for a plasma with the same dimensions. This applies especially to smaller models.
Lower power consumption: LCD TVs are slightly ahead in the plasma vs LCD TV competition, as they consume, on average, with about 30% less than their counterparts. There are exceptions however, usually newer models being more energy efficient, regardless of the technology.
Convenience: LCD TVs weight less than a plasma, which means that you can install it easier in your room, or place it on a wall. At the same time, LCD TVs are more convenient because they are available in smaller sizes than plasma TVs.
Burn-In Free: Plasma TVs always suffered from burn-in. The latest models are very resistant, however if you plan to use the HDTV as a computer monitor you will eventually get burn-in. Same story if you’re a hardcore gamer – while you can safely play games on a plasma TV for short periods of time, if you plan to play for hours in a row and watch TV programs and movies less than you play games, it is recommended to buy an LCD over plasma.