LCD vs Plasma

It may seem like a dilemma, but choosing between and LCD and plasma screen needn't be as daunting or confusing, as it might first appear to be. At first glance, it may seem like an impossible task to determine the difference in appearance and although both televisions are thin and flat, a different type of technology is employed in an attempt to deliver similar results. The battle between LCD and plasma is the latest topic that has recently sparked the technology debate; check out our guide below to selecting the best screen for you.

Why LCD and plasma?

With the majority of CRT televisions now on the way out, LCD and plasmas have paved the way for new technology and have begun a digital revolution in many households. Compact size and stylish, both LCD and plasma TVs are becoming the popular choice amongst many consumers and this begs the question, what are the main differences between the screens?

LCD TVs

LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display and the technology employed is extremely lightweight therefore products are both highly portable and adaptable. LCD screen size range from 15" to 65", which ensures flicker-free images for added viewing pleasure, and since LCD screens do not generate static electricity, screens remain virtually dust free and clean for non stop viewing. Compared to plasma screens, LCD screens are better suited to smaller screen viewing.

Plasma TVs

Plasma displays have perfectly flat, non-curvature screens eliminating edge distortion from the screen image, producing natural, vibrant colours whilst maintaining extraordinary image detail. Differs somewhat to the technology employed with LCD TVs, plasma screens use matrix of tiny gas plasma cells to create a crystal clear picture. Utilizing a self illuminating technology, rather than relying on a backlight like the LCD, ensures that plasma screens are ideal for fast moving action, like sports and movies retaining both crispiness and detail.

Benefits of LCD TVs

• Clean and crisp - LCDs screens have more pixels per square inch than a CRT TV, ensuring sharper image
• Less glare - Easy on the eye, LCD TVs don't flicker or flare up with the sun's reflection, thanks to the backlight
• Wide viewing angles - Because of the flatscreen, LCDs are perfect for watching from a wide angle in any room
• Higher resolutions - LCD HD ready screens have a higher resolution making them capable of displaying HDTV signals

Benefits of Plasma TVs

• Screen size - Larger screen sizes are available enabling plasmas screens to be installed on strong walls, ceilings and also displayed on stands for the ultimate home cinema experience
• Higher resolutions - Plasma screens have a higher resolution than conventional television sets making them capable of displaying HDTV signals
• Contrast ratio - Plasma screens are capable of displaying billions of colours, providing exceptional subtle graduations between colours and shades of grey
• Viewing angles - Unlike CRT televisions, plasma screens have viewing angles of 170° or better and can be viewed from virtually any angle

Which screen is right for you?

Hopefully, this essential guide to LCD vs Plasma screens has made things a bit clearer. Of course, the type of screen you buy is dependent on the function. Smaller LCD TVs are more suited if they mounted in the bedroom, office or kitchen, whereas, larger screens such as large LCDs and plasmas will suit a living room destined for the ultimate home cinema set up.