How to Buy a Flat Screen TV

Buying a flat screen TV can be a harrowing experience. All the numbers for pixels, the difference of 4:3 aspect ratio vs 16:7, megahertz speeds, darkness ratios, etc, plus all the technical jargon is enough to send amateur techies running for the hills. Here is an easy and comprehensive albeit common sense guide on what to look for when purchasing a new flat screen TV.

For starters, you need to choose between plasma and LCD screens. Depending on the size you might be looking to get, plasmas may run a bit cheaper. However, keep in mind that most plasmas come without speakers and the purchasing of extra accessories is undoubtedly required. Plasma TVs are recommended though if the reason for the purchase is a state of the art home theater. The picture on plasma screens is sharper, and the resolution can be stronger. LCDs are catching up, but plasma is still the winner.

If you plan on using the new TV mainly for day to day use in the regular old family living room, LCD is the recommended option. Not only will you most probably have to buy extra equipment with a plasma unit, you will also have an increase in the "burn in" factor. Burn in is when you leave a TV set on with the same image in the screen (this can be a television networks logo on the bottom corner, a DVD menu screen, etc) and later, even after changing the channel, you can still see the "burned in" image on the place that it was. Over time, this might be grounds for having to buy a whole new set.

Now, for the size options. Bigger isn't always better. Sure, you will get a bigger picture, but keep in mind that if your couch is located at less than 10 feet from the set, it is not necessary or advisable to buy a 60 inch set. 40 inches will more than do. Why? Because the bigger the TV, the farther you should be in order to view the picture clearly. If you stand too close to a big television, the pixilation will be more apparent, and the picture grainier.

Go to the store and test them out. Stand as far as you will normally sit to watch the screen, and see which size best suits the distance you will set it up in at home. If you like, bring in a movie of your own and see which screen out of all the brands gives you the clearest picture in that size. Some brands have better resolution at different sizes.

As for choosing the brand of your new flat screen; keep in mind that when buying a flat screen TV you are looking at new technology. Go with a brand that has been around longer, even though they might be more expensive. These usually offer the best guarantees, and with new technology such as flat screen TVs, this is important. You don't want to spend $1000+ on a TV set that will only last one year!

One last thing to consider when buying a flat screen TV is the mhz speed. The higher the number the less blur on high-motion scenes. In today's flat screen TV market, it is rare to come across less than 120 mhz options, but they do exist in the 60 mhz level. Try and find one that has the highest number available if you will be playing video games, watching sports, or high speed action films.

Good luck, and enjoy your new toy!

Sources:

Personal experience

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