Is it time to upgrade your old TV to a flat-screen? In the search for a new television, begin with LCD TVs. From compact, fifteen-inch models to big screens measuring 100 inches or more, these slim, flat-screen TVs come in many different sizes. There is an LCD TV out there that will fit any space or budget. Samsung, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Sharp, and Sony are the major brand names, but by no means are they the only brands that carry quality LCD TVs.
With the development of High Definition capability, LCD TVs have become very popular. The technology twists specialized crystals to create images, which are reflected by a light behind the screen panel. This prevents burnout and extends the life of the television. LCD stands for liquid crystal display, but never fear, there is no liquid at all inside these machines.
When buying a new TV, there are some important features to compare. This is a major talking point for the Plasma vs. LCD TV debate and is a good way to measure the quality of different brands and models. The contrast ratio is measured by comparing the blackest black to the whitest white. Plasma dominated this area for the first few years by having the deepest blacks, but recently, LCD TVs have bridged the gap with significant technology improvements. Anything over 10,000:1 can be considered an excellent contrast level. A good LCD TV will have a contrast level around 3000:1, but this will vary widely depending on the brand and model. With a very high contrast rate of 80,000:1, Philips’s 40″, 1080p LCD TV is an example of a fantastic contrast rate.
Another key component of an LCD picture is the response rate of the pixels. If you have seen blurring, ghosting, or streaking on an LCD TV, it may have been the result of a lower response rate. A response time is determined by calculating how rapidly a crystal can twist and change the reflected image. Because the industry does not regulate the measurement of response time, claims by different brands can be difficult to compare. Sharps Aquos line of LCD TVs, however are accurately measured at 6 milliseconds. This characteristic should definitely impact your search as blurring or streaking can take away from your beautiful picture!
Refresh rates can be tricky to find. They are often displayed as 50Hz, 100Hz, 200Hz, 400Hz, or 6000Hz. 600Hz is only available on the newest models and is recommended mostly for sports or similar fast moving programming. 200 Hz is quite common on the name brands and is a marked improvement upon the 50Hz speed.
In addition, an LCD television has a resolution of either 720p (HD ready) or 1080p (Full HD). Especially for computer input, LCD TVs have an advantage as they clearly display images that may appear jagged on Plasma systems. The High Definition experience takes television to a whole new level!
Although Plasma TVs are right for some people, LCD TVs offer flexibility with their wide range of prices and sizes. Despite being only three inches thick, an LCD television is a good long-term investment and offers durability with an average life span of 60,000 viewing hours. Their sleek lines add style to any room.
Whether you enjoy watching sports in High Definition at blistering speeds, or taking in a good movie with the family, purchasing an LCD TV will enhance your viewing experience and bring friends and family together for countless hours of fun!
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