LCD or Plasma-Which Is Better For My Situation?

It's time for a new television and you know that you
want a flat screen, but which one should you buy; LCD
or Plasma? It would be great if this were an easy
decision, but you've already realized that both types
are fairly expensive and both come with their share of
pros and cons. So, to properly answer this question, we
need to consider your viewing habits and desire for
perfection.

Do you watch a lot of programs like Bloomberg, spend a good deal of time gaming,
view pictures or connect your computer regularly-if this sounds familiar, you may
be looking for an LCD. On the other hand, if your habits don't include continuous
viewing of stock tickers, logos, or static game images and you demand the richest
cinematic experience-then perhaps you're looking for a plasma flat screen. But
wait…there's more to consider.

What's your budget? If you're looking for a flat screen under 42", the prices will be
fairly compatible, with a slight edge generally going towards the plasma's.
However, when you look at larger models-this price discrepancy generally widens,
making the plasma televisions a little more reasonable. Be prepared to shell out
$600.00 - $700.00 for the smaller, or low end units and more-in some
cases-much, much more-for the larger flat screens.

There is still a bit more to consider before running out to Best Buy though. While it
is true that, in general, the plasma TV will offer you deeper blacks, warmer colors
and a wider viewing angle, the LCD will generally give a more energy efficient TV
that offers better viewing in daylight, or bright conditions; as the screen is usually a
plastic matte versus the plasmas' glossy-glass screen. Additionally, LCD units have
very little-to no-chance of suffering "burn-in" due to prolonged exposure of static
images. Although, if you don't leave your screen on for hours at a time with images
that remain unchanged-there is very little chance that you would ever have a
problem here.

Both the plasma and the LCD will average a life span of some 15-20 years and both
will provide you with a great experience if you tailor it to your needs.

So here's the run-down:
Wide angle viewing-plasma
Richer & warmer color-plasma
Better price-plasma (although-LCD technology is coming along quickly and the price
gap is closing)
More resistant to glare-LCD
More models offering 1080p resolution-LCD
Better for static images (tickers, gaming, computer viewing)-LCD

In summary:
If you're looking for a flat screen television, which will be used more often in a
low-light, cinema type environment-then go with the plasma. However, if you do a
lot of daytime viewing-with the shades open-or you want a television for the kitchen
or gaming-you will probably want to consider an LCD.

Written By K. Stewart
BestReviewsOnEarth.com