Are you on you’re way to upgrade that old and fat TV for a thin, modern and nice looking flat screen? I guess you’ve already found out its not that simple. Plasma or LCD? What’s the difference and what technology should you choose?
LCD and plasma TVs each have their own characteristics. And the decision about which one you prefer is a personal one, related to taste.

This article will go over the different areas where the Plasma vs. LCD battle plays itself out, and hopefully, when you’re finished reading it, you'll have a better idea of which TV is right for you.

How about the tech Stuff?

Well, do you really care about the technology? The important thing when it comes to these kind of TV’s is the size and the picture quality - not how the technology makes it possible. Right now you’re using your computer to read this article, but do you really know the technology behind the internet or how the computer works in front of you? Let’s move on the facts that you actually care about. Let’s talk about size. If you’re after the bigger models you will have a greater variety of plasma TVs to choose from. It may take a little time before the number of large-sized LCD models catch up to the number of options you have with plasma TVs. LCD TVs, however, are indeed gaining ground.

Viewing Angle

The viewing angle is how far off to the side you can sit and still see the picture clearly. Viewing angle is also talked about with computers, but in a computer monitor, this type of consideration isn’t usually so important. Computer users normally sit directly in front of their monitors. For TVs, however, viewing angle can be hugely important since you might have people sitting at various places all around the room. Historically, the Plasma vs. LCD battle has been won by plasma TVs in this category. LCD TVs have made tremendous strides in this area of late. Many people will tell you, however, that the 170° field of vision claimed by some LCD manufacturers simply isn’t realistic. You may be able to see what’s happening at that angle, but it isn’t the same as sitting more directly head on.

Picture quality

This area is obviously the most subjective of all the areas, but perhaps the most important too. What someone’s personal taste is will determine what he or she considers to be pleasing. It’s this area that will probably determine more than any other which type of TV you get in the end. In general, most agree that LCD TVs produce “sharper” pictures with colours that seem more alive. With plasma TVs, you generally get more realistic colours and a wider range of colours. LCD TVs give you a vibrant, primary colours type of feel. Plasma TVs give you subtler, warmer pastels, but perhaps more realistically accurate.

Flat screens vs. your wallet

Finally, price. At the moment, in general, the price of a large LCD TV is going to be a little more expensive than the same large-sized plasma TV. The caveat with all of LCD TVs negatives, as you may have noticed, is that “they’re improving.” The same is true here. While plasma TVs have been out on the market for a while and have established something of a reputation, the truth is, LCD TVs are hot in the public’s mind at the moment. Also have in mind that all computer monitors are made with the same technology which will increase the quality and lower the prize in a near future. So what’s it going to be? Well, plasmas are generally bigger with a picture which, compared to an LCD TV, is smoother and creamier. Their colours are earthy and authentic while the LCD TVs are known for their crisp picture. So if you favour this, nothing else is going to satisfy you. You simply need an LCD TV. But if you want a good, down-to-earth, filling meal, a plasma TV is probably your choice. Good luck!