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How to Choose a Flat Panel TV

1. How are plasma and LCD TVs different?

When you go shopping for a flat panel TV, you will encounter two types: plasma and LCD. How do these two types differ? And which one is right for you? Each type has its advantages, and knowing more about them will help you choose the one that's best suited for your home.

As you can see from this chart, plasma is a better choice for a large-screen TV to be used in a living room because of its capabilities for motion display and color reproduction.

Two points to consider when choosing between plasma and LCD TVs.

Point 1: Brightness

When you're shopping for a TV, the electronics dealers you visit probably use very bright overhead lighting. This will make the screen look much different than it will in your home, which probably uses much softer lighting. Also, plasma TVs are well-suited not only for the lighting of the average home, but also for home theater-style lighting with well-defined blacks.

Point 2: Moving images

The larger the screen, the more room the pictures have to move, and residual images tend to be more obvious on larger screens. plasma TVs are better suited for motion because they reduce the residual images from fast movements, resulting in a sharper and overall better picture.

For a large screen with large movements, higher moving image resolution is essential.

2. Some basic knowledge about flat panel TVs

Flat panel TVs are the standard today, but it's surprising how little is known about them. Some shoppers have been misguided by preconceptions and rumors. Here, we would like to offer some pieces of wisdom that everyone should know about flat screen TVs. We hope you will find them useful when making the choice for your home.

Which consumes less power, plasma or LCD?

Plasma TVs alter their brightness according to the image being displayed, which means they use varying amounts of electricity. On the other hand, LCD TV panels are constantly illuminated by a backlight, and therefore use a relatively steady amount of power. So it is fair to say that power consumption for plasma and LCD TVs cannot be determined just by comparing the figures in a catalog.

How about the durability and lifespan of the panel?

Both plasma and LCD panels are made with glass, but plasma TV panels are stronger and can be cleaned and serviced more easily. In terms of lifespan, both plasma and LCD panels will last an estimated 60,000 hours, so each can be enjoyed for a long time.

How about viewing angle?

TVs with a narrow viewing angle will look whiter and less attractive when viewed from the side. If you plan to have many people gather in your living room to watch TV, you should consider buying one with a wide viewing angle. Plasma TVs and IPS Alpha Panel-equipped LCD TVs will look sharp and beautiful from any part of the room.

Guide to optimum viewing distances

Optimum viewing distance of a flat panel TV is approximately three times the height of the screen.

Product information is provided for general guidance only, and does not constitute a warranty.

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