When trying to upgrade to a new TV, most consumers are faced with a plethora of information, numbers and words that don’t really mean anything to then. One of the most common issues buyers have is whether to buy a LCD TV or a Plasma TV. What’s the difference?
LCD and Plasma TVs are two competing technologies that deliver a similar end result; bright, crisp and colorful images, far smother than those on your old CRT TV. The major difference between the two types of TVs is the contrast ratio. Although newer LCD TVs are able match the level of contrast brought about by Plasma TVs, Plasmas still out perform LCD TVs when it comes to media such as DVD movies and video games where pictures fluctuate faster between darker and lighter scenes. When it comes to color accuracy, both types of TVs are on the same level. Newer LCDs employ high-end technology to replicate real life color. However, some critics still claim that Plasmas have a small edge even over the newest of LCDs. Another key difference is that Plasma TVs have a wider viewing angle, generally around 160 degrees, whereas even the best of LCD HDTVs are limited to a 120 degree viewing angle. One more key element that should be considered is the refresh rate. Typically Plasma TVs have a better refresh rate than the newest LCD TVs. That being said, a huge advantage LCD TVs have is power consumption where LCDs consume much less power than a Plasma TV.
As far as critics go, most facts favor Plasma TVs. However at the end of the day the choice depends on personal preference.