How to Comparison Shop for a TV Online

Online comparison shopping is definitely one of the easiest and most convenient ways to shop. Web sites such as Froogle, BizRate, PriceGrabber and MySimon have all created comparison shopping services that are easy to use and can help you find what you’re looking for quickly. Online comparison shopping is especially useful when it comes to buying electronic goods such as TVs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Think about what kind of TV you want—see the Tips section of this article for a quick guide to various TV models.

2. Navigate to a comparison shopping Web site such as Froogle, BizRate, PriceGrabber or MySimon.

3. Type your search terms into the search box and hit enter.

4. Narrow your search results by entering a brand name or price range if the site allows you to do so.

5. Compare the features of different models. If you can’t find enough information, try going to the manufacturer’s Web site.

6. Select the model that you want, and start comparing prices. Remember to include shipping and sales tax if they apply. Some sites may offer free shipping or other incentives so be sure to include that in your calculations.

7. Check several different comparison shopping sites—the more you shop around, the more you can potentially save.

Tips & Warnings

• CRT-display TVs are still the most common variety in use, as well as the cheapest. The maximum screen size is about 46 inches. Many people believe that CRTs provide the best quality picture; however the biggest downside of these TVs is the huge amount of space they take up.
• Flat screen TVs (including LCD or plasma TVs) solve the space problem—as little as one inch deep, some models can be hung on a wall, and some can function as computer monitors as well as TVs. The main disadvantage of these TVs is a narrow viewing angle, meaning viewers to the far left or right may have trouble seeing the screen.
• Widescreen TVs allow you to view movies as they would appear on a movie screen. These TVs use an “aspect ratio” that maximizes the display area of the screen when viewing both TV shows and movies. More sophisticated widescreen models have an auto-format feature that automatically adjusts the picture to its proper proportions no matter what you’re viewing.
• High-definition TVs are able to receive signals for high-definition channels, which have superior picture quality. To use these channels, you need a TV that’s designated HDTV-ready and has a screen size of at least 26 inches (the bigger the screen, the better the picture quality).
• The MySimon comparison shopping site has sections which focus on refurbished items and those which offer rebates. If you can find what you want in either of these categories chances are you’ll get an even better deal.
• To prevent future problems, make sure you find out as much as possible about the TV and the store you’re buying from before purchase, including the store’s returns policy and the warranty on the item.

[hondaguy]

on 10/14/2009 I bought my TV and I got a great deal using www.itsmygr.com - this is a easy to use website that breaks down prices on just about anything. I highly recommend it- its free.