LED Vs LCD Vs Plasma TV

LED Vs LCD Vs Plasma TV - Which One To Choose

Shopping for a new flat screen TV gives you a lot to think about, not least the type of screen to choose. Between LED vs LCD vs plasma TV, it's nearly impossible to know which is the right choice for you. Here's a quick guide to the main differences between the three different technologies.

The Key Differences Between LED, LCD And Plasma TV

Picture

Understandably, picture quality is one of the most important elements of any television screen. The first thing you need to know is that LED TVs are the same as LCD, except for the fact that they feature LED backlights for improved contrast and colors. Plasma usually has even better contrast than any other type of screen, but the differences are a lot more difficult to spot nowadays.

Viewing Angle

The viewing angle measures the angle from which you'll still be able to see a clear picture on the TV screen, for example when you're sitting round the side when watching TV with family and friends. Plasma TVs again have the most impressive viewing angle of all different TV technologies, but it all depends on the manufacturer.

Energy Use

More and more of us are concerned with saving energy nowadays, so it helps to compare LED vs LCD vs plasma TV screens in terms of how much electricity they use. Plasma screens are known to use around double the amount of energy than LCD or LED screens. LEDs are the most energy efficient, but current LCD screens really aren't far behind.

Sound

Flat panel televisions in general aren't renowned for their sound quality. After all, they're so thin that there is barely any space to fit in a good pair of speakers. That said, LED TVs are known to be worse than plasma or LCD due to the fact that they're usually thinner.

Selection Of TVs

LCD and LED TVs are definitely the most common on the market, meaning that it's a lot easier to find something that matches the exact specs you're after. LCDs and LEDs are currently made by all manufacturers, whereas plasma is more limited to Samsung, Panasonic and LG.

Price

Although there were differences in the past, the prices of LCD and plasma screens are now largely comparable, though LCD/ LED screens last longer meaning they're more cost effective in the long term. You will find that you pay a little more for an LED backlight.

Games

There is a slight risk of using plasma TV screens for games, and that is image burn. If you leave games paused for long periods of time, the image can literally burn onto the screen and stay there even once you start doing something else. Thankfully this is very rare these days, but it's still a consideration for gamers.

LED vs LCD vs plasma TV screens do have notable differences, but they're a lot more subtle today than they once were. It really depends on what you're specifically looking for from a flat screen TV, and it's essential you check out manufacturer reviews before you buy.