How to Evaluate Different HDTVs
There are many different styles of HDTVs to evaluate before you make the decision to purchase one. Standard HDTVs, LCD televisions, plasma screen TVs and rear-projection televisions each have their own unique advantages and disadvantages to consider. Think about price, size, picture quality, design and maintenance requirements.
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Instructions
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Evaluate and Compare Different HDTVs
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Ask yourself what criteria are most important to you. There are so many different HDTV types that you need a basis of comparison to make accurate evaluations.
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Start by comparing price. For most buyers, price will probably be one of the most important criteria. Typically, the bigger and better the picture, the more expensive the unit will be.
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Think about size next. There are obvious space limitations you'll have to keep in mind when evaluating which HDTV to purchase. An LCD TV is a perfect option when space is limited. They have smaller, flat screens with incredibly clear pictures.
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Save some money with a standard widescreen HDTV if you have more space to work with. Standard HDTVs are heavy and take up more room, but they are also less expensive and still have excellent picture quality.
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Get the most cinematic experience possible with a plasma screen TV. Plasma screen TVs have higher contrast levels, meaning that the white levels are whiter and the black levels are blacker than on other televisions.
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Get a real movie theater-style experience with a projector. You can expand a projected image to truly incredible proportions without diminishing picture quality. HDTV projectors have display vivid colors because of their micro-mirror technology and near-constant color adjustments.
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Evaluate different HDTVs based on design. Design considerations are important, because your HDTV needs to fit into your room decor and style. It needs to look natural and should not be the dominant feature of a room.
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Create your own list based on the criteria you've established to help keep your ratings organized. You can also see what categories experts like those at cnet.com use when making their evaluations (see Resources below). Factors like performance, design and additional features should be considered.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that if you want to connect your HDTV to your PC you'll need accessories like cables and adapters. You may also need speakers and tuner cards to get sound quality that is as good as your picture quality.
Don't forget to consider set-up requirements and extras you might need when purchasing an HDTV.
