LCD vs Plasma televisions – which is the best?

This has long been a disputed topic for many people.  Some swear LCD is superior, while others say Plasma has better quality.  While there’s really no true answer, here’s some facts to support both sides, and we’ll let you make the best judgment.

LCD, in general, has a longer life expectancy and is better suited for smaller screen sizes- from 5” to around 32″.  Plasma on the other hand is better suited for larger screen sizes, 32” to 65” and larger.  While they both provide a relatively equal picture quality, Plasma involves a much costlier manufacturing process that prohibits it for smaller screened TVs.  On large screens- 50”+, Plasma has a slightly better picture quality due to its method of display, but in general, both LCD and Plasma are almost identical to the normal consumer. 

In terms of where the TV will go in your home, Plasma consists of glass screens, so reflections may be a problem in bright rooms.  LCD has a matte plastic screen which absorbs the light and is much less reflective.  As for off-viewing angles, Plasma is viewable from all angles- even extreme angles, while LCD fades a bit from extreme angles. 

Another thing to think about is the fact that Plasma includes a risk for “burn-in,” which occurs when still images are left on the screen for extended periods of time.  This is a problem for some gamers, who leave a game paused for hours on end, which could possible cause burn-in on Plasma screens.  LCD, on the other hand, has almost no risk of burn-in due to its form of technology.

Unless you’re a perfectionist, you really won’t notice any difference between the two.  The bottom line is, if you’re in the market for a smaller-screen TV, go with an LCD, if you’re going for a larger screen (50” and up), go with Plasma- especially in home theater situations with low light and dead-on viewing angles.  The issue with longevity- both recommend around 60,000 hours or 20 years of viewing at 8 hours per day.  There really isn’t one better than the other, so it comes down to your situation- where the TV will be, your viewing angle, the size, so use the tips above to make the best decision.