How to Compare Rear-Projection TV Models Before You Buy

Even though plasma and LCD TVs are all the rage, most people simply cannot afford to buy one of these high-end electronics. Rear-projection TVs are still the affordable alternative for the money-conscious consumer. They offer great pictures, good quality sound and video input options for movie watchers and gamers. It is important to compare rear-projection TV models before you buy so you can get the best TV for your money.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Understand the technology. Rear-projection TVs come in many different styles and use one of three basic technologies to produce the picture: CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and DLP (Digital Light Processing). CRT is the most common and oldest technology.

2. Get the best picture. Not all pictures are created equal, and when shopping for your rear-projection TV, you need look around. The Sony Grand WEGA KDS-60A200 is considered the best rear-projection TV on the market.

3. Check out the different brands. Most major brands, such as Sony, Panasonic and Samsung, are known for their quality rear-projection TVs. They offer warranties and quality products. One brand that seems to get bad reviews is Toshiba, especially with the 62HM95, 62-inch rear projection model.

4. Read consumer reports online (see Resources below) to learn more.

5. Visit your local electronics store to test out the rear-projection TV before you buy. All the consumer reports in the world will not help you as much as first-hand experience. Most electronics store will be happy to let you watch a TV before you buy it.

Tips & Warnings

• While CRT TVs are cheaper, LCD and DLP TVs offer better picture quality and video capabilities.
• CRT rear-projection TVs are much cheaper than most TVs because of the older technology, but offer the best overall picture for extremely large TVs.
• LCD and DLP TVs may require bulb replacement periodically.