How to Compare 40 Inch LCD TV's

The quiality of the remote is one often overlooked piece of criteria when comparing TVs. Look for one with a good signal that is laid out intuitively.

LCD TVs are growing in popularity with each passing month. Because they are built in shallow cases, rooms that could never have housed a 40-inch TV before can now do so easily. But not all 40-inch LCD TVs are created equal.

Considerations

LCD TVs have been notorious for deteriorating picture quality as you move up in screen size. Though the technology is advancing, it's still best to go to a store and compare the picture and sound quality for yourself.

Picture Quality

Performing a few simple visual tests in the store can help make evaluating 40-inch LCD TVs easier. Start in the center and move slowly from side to side to test how the TV looks when viewed at different angles. Watch to make sure the color and clarity remain consistent. Also check the manufacturer's listed refresh rate and resolution. Higher is better in both cases, but make sure that the manufacturers you're comparing are using the same measurements. Some manufacturers will leave out important numbers or use a different scale in order to make their products seem better than they really are.

Expert Insight

Check if your 40-inch LCD TV comes with built-in speakers. Not all do. And if yours does, ask the salesperson at the store to disconnect the TV from the store's sound system so that you can hear the speakers as they'll sound at home. Sometimes they will be underpowered, thus requiring you to pick up an external pair, which will add to the overall cost of your TV. Also compare the warranties included with the TV. Longer is better, and make sure the warranty covers all parts of the TV and not just some.

References

• Consumer Reports: TV Buying Tips From Consumer Reports
• LCD TV Buying Guide: LCD HDTV Resolutions Explained

Resources

• Smart Review: Best 40-Inch LCD and LED TVs Roundup