How to Save Money When Buying a HDTV

A HDTV is probably one of the most expensive pieces of equipment you can buy. Since you spend a lot of money on it, it is probably important for you to buy a HDTV model of high quality. If possible, you would definitely appreciate any chance to save money while getting great quality.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time
• Patience

1. Decide how much you will spend. It is important that you have this aspect clear. Of course, you might go a bit over this figure, however you should have a ball park figure to start with.

2. Figure out what screen size you need. Depending on the distance between you and the HDTV and the content you plan to watch on the TV, there is a certain screen size that is optimal for you. It is important to know what is the optimal screen size for you, otherwise you will not get the best quality possible, you waste money or both. To find the best viewing distance for your room, search on Google for "HDTV screen size & viewing distance".

3. This is an important step. You now know what is the optimal screen size for you. You are to make an important decision. Since the larger the screen is, the higher its price, you may find yourself in the situation where you have to choose between going way over your budget in order to get great quality, or accept a less than perfect experience but within your previously chosen budget.

4. If you can't afford the optimal screen size, you might consider buying a 720p HDTV, as it will significantly reduce the cost without sacrificing detail. Unless you are at the optimal viewing distance for 1080p and at the same time watch 1080p (Blu Ray) or 1080i (HDTV programs), having a screen with this native resolution doesn't offer any advantage whatsoever.

5. If you decide to go way over your initial budget, you can still save money. Most high end HDTVs are expensive not just because of their great picture quality but also because they are packed with a lot of exotic features as Internet connectivity, integrated hard disk, 1080p/24 support (film mode), 120Hz refresh rate in the case of LCD TVs, etc. If you don't really need these features you can save a few hundred bucks without sacrificing picture quality. You just have to research a bit and find out which are the models with great picture quality but few exotic features.

6. Do not buy expensive HDMI cables. There are HDMI cables that cost over $100 and there are HDMI cables that cost under $1. There is no difference in quality between them. The picture is EXACTLY the same.

Resources

• Best HDTV Models
• HDTV Screen Size & Optimal Viewing Distance Table

[patysson]

on 8/1/2009 great article.