When choosing your TV, one of the main points to determine is what type of TV you wish to buy. There are three types, LCD, LED and Plasma, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages and thusly, it can be a difficult choice to make.

LCD vs LED
Our research has shown that from the 3 different screen types, LCD, LED, and Plasma, there is not a clear winner unless we add the size of the TV as an additional factor. For example, an 19inch LCD TV is just as good (and cheaper) than a 19inch LED. However, a 32inch LCD TV is not as good as a 32 LED (although it is still cheaper). So how do we give these factors weighting in order to scale them against one another? Well, we have to take into account the purpose of the TV, the energy consumption and the make, as well as personal preference. If you want a great screen and money is not an issue then an LED is always the option which offers the highest quality. However, if money is an issue, then it is up to you how much picture quality is worth to you. Another point to mention is the energy that each type uses, LED TV’s tend to use around 10-20 Watts of power less than LCD’s, hence possibly saving you money in the long run.

LCD vs Plasma
Although initially dominating the smaller end market, LCD TV’s have grown in range since advances in screen technology has allowed experts to design 40+ inch LCD screens with fantastic quality images. Many manufacturers are in fact ceasing their plasma TV production whilst others still continue to produce a few but concentrate mainly on LED and LCD advances. This being the case, Plasma TV’s have been out muscled in recent years by LED and LCD, but which one is best? Plasma’s consume alot more energy than LCD’s however offer a a higher frame rate per second making them more ideal for gaming and 3D purposes. Once again, this is a matter of personal preference, what will you be using your TV for?

LED vs Plasma
With the frame rate and quality of LED’s reaching that of Plasma screens, and with them offering a much lower energy consumption rate, they have become a dominating force in the television HD market. With Plasma’s currently costing more than LED’s, it is only those going for the larger TV’s (over 50 inches) that should consider a Plasma over an LED.

Conclusion
Firstly, let us say that the quality of a HD TV is not necessarily related to it’s size or type but can sometimes be entirely down to the brand. Going with a brand that you are familiar with is definitely your first point to note. We recommend Acer, Hitachi, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Sony, and Samsung. When determining the type of screen that you are going to choose, ask yourself what you will be using your TV for. If for example, you will be using it for watching TV shows, as these are mainly broadcast in Standard definition, you should purchase an LCD. They are the cheapest and you will not notice a difference between the 3 types whilst simply watching TV. If, however, you intend to watch Blu-rays, 3D DVDs, or play games, then we suggest choosing an LED unless you intend to purchase a TV over 50 inches.

In Summary

  • Watching TV shows – - LCD
  • Playing games, watching DVD’s/Blu-ray’s – - LED (less than 50 inch TV’s)
  • Playing games, watching DVD’s/Blu-ray’s – - Plasma (greater than 50 inch TV’s)