If you're looking for a flat screen TV buying guide, but you don't want a guide that is overly complicated or takes you too long to read, then look no further. In this concise guide, we're going to jump straight to the point and highlight the important key areas you need to consider. First we're going to take a look at the main types of TV available, then take a look at the number 1 brands out there, and then we'll take a look at the main features you need to look for.
What Are the Main Types of TV?
Now, I'm assuming you already know the kind of size TV you want, so here we focus on more important things. In terms of the screen technology available, there are basically three main types of TV screen: LCD, LED, and Plasma.
LCD TVs
Thin, lightweight. Come in a range of sizes. Good for bright rooms. More brands and sizes to choose from than Plasma. Tend to cost more than Plasma screens of the same size, but this is becoming less so as time goes on.
LED TVs
A type of LCD screen, but with different lighting. Uses LED to light the LCD particles, as opposed to Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamps, as were used in older LCD sets. More energy efficient. Longer lifespan - doesn't degrade like older style LCDs.
Plasma TVs
Good for very large screens (42 inches or larger). Can be viewed from almost any angle. Good for fast action, e.g. games, sports or action movies.
Which Are the Best Brands?
Samsung
Market leader and innovator. Pioneer of LED technology in LCD TVs. Very popular brand - probably the best, if you had to name just one top brand. Definitely the best-selling in the UK, anyway. Superb picture quality.
LG
Another popular brand. Offers a wide range of plasma screen, but also makes LCD and LED. Produces some high-end models called Infinia.
Panasonic
Market leader for Plasma TVs. Also makes LCD. Makes some very large screens. One of the first to offer 3D.
Toshiba
Offers a wide range of TVs, from low-priced to high-end models called the Cinema Series. Have plans to start making 3D sets soon.
VIZIO
Newer company (started in 2002). Makes LCD TVs. Brands itself as "America's no. 1 LCD TV brand"
What Are the Main Features to Look For in a TV?
There are many different features that TVs have these days, but here are some of the key things to look out for.
Screen Refresh Rate (Frame Rate)
For LCD, go for new 120Hz or 240Hz screens. Plasma has very fast transition between frames, so copes better with fast digital scenes.
Internet
PC input - some TVs have PC input, so you can surf the net on your TV. Internet @ TV - some Samsung TVs come with a function called Internet @ TV, which gives access to the internet while you watch TV. Some other new TVs also allow internet access to services such as YouTube, Netflick, Facebook, etc.
Connections
Wi-Fi - connect to your home network. HDMI - High Definition Multimedia Interface. PC input - as mentioned above.
Easy Settings & Specific Modes
Game Mode - some TVs (e.g. Samsung) come with a specific mode for game playing, which enhances the sound and image specifically for this purpose. Picture Wizard - this is a simple step-by-step wizard that comes with LG TVs and helps you to easily adjust your picture settings. Some TVs can even detect the lighting of your room and automatically optimize your screen settings.
The Choice is Yours
So, as you can see, there are many different factors that can determine which type of TV you are going to buy. Once you have decided on the size of the screen you then need to decide on the screen type, whether it's Plasma or LCD. Once you have decided on that, it's best to take a look at the brand that is the leader in that particular technology. For example, if you want an LED style LCD TV, then Samsung is probably your best bet. However, if you decided on Plasma, then LG is a good choice. Once you have made that decision, it's really just a case of keeping an eye out for the features you want, and then reading reviews from existing customers, to see whether it's a good model to buy.
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