Comparing LCD TVs to Plasma TVs

Now you know something about both LCD TVs and plasma TVs, it’s time to compare the two. Below are specs for each type so you can see the benefits and shortcomings of each one:

 

·        Screen Size: If you want to look at screen size, plasma TVs hold the cards here. They are much larger than the LCD screen. The LCD screen has sizes including 13 inches to 45 inches. However, plasma screen sizes range from 32 inches to 60 inches.

·        Viewing Angle: The advantage here goes to LCD TVs. They have a viewing angle of up to 170 degrees, while plasma TVs only go to 160 degrees.

·        Refresh Rates: Plasma TVs have the slight edge here. Plasma TVs refresh rates are about as good as CRT refresh rates. On the other hand, LCD TVs refresh rates are not as good but getting better. Right now they have a refresh rate of 16 ms.

·        Product Life-Cycle: Give this one to LCD TVs. LCD TVs lamps last a bit longer than plasmas. Typically, plasma TVs have a life cycle of 30,000 to 40,000 hours. This amounts to three years.

·        Weight: LCD TVs win this battle. They are considerably lighter, and are more portable. Whereas, plasma displays are much heavier to handle.

·        Durability: Again, LCD TVs win here. They are much more durable than plasma TVs. Plasma TVs are fragile, making them harder to ship and install. They are not good for the wall.

·        Shipping: Because LCD TVs are lighter, they are much easier to ship. Plasma TVs are very fragile and require special care when shipping.

·        Installation: LCD TV wins out here. They are much easier to install than plasma TVs because they are lighter. Plasmas are heavier, use more power, and run hotter.

·        Brightness: In regular room lighting, they both are tied. However, given real world situations, LCD TVs hold the candle. Plasma TVs have brightness ranges from 800-1000 cd/m2 but if compared to real world situations, the plasma has a rating of 100 cd/m2. The LCD TV has a rating of 500-600 cd/m2.

·        Contrast: Regarding contrast, LCD TVs hold the fort. Typical contrast ratios range from 350-450:1, while plasma TVs range hold up to 200:1.