| comes to size, resolution and picture quality, more and | | | | Size |
| more people are opting for an LCD TV. These are | | | | Probably the major consideration you need to keep in |
| currently the bestselling flat and high-definition | | | | mind is the LCD TV's size. It has to fit the area where |
| televisions today, preferred by more consumers | | | | it will be placed and must be big enough to optimize |
| because they come in a wide variety of sizes, fits just | | | | your viewing experience and small enough not to |
| about anywhere and are light enough to be mounted | | | | overwhelm. Remember that the best LCD TVs are |
| on the wall just like an ordinary picture frame. But with | | | | built for maximum viewing pleasure at a distance. So if |
| so many choices today, how do you find the best | | | | you have a 40" set, you should at have enough space |
| LCD TV? Here are some factors to consider, along | | | | in the room to allow you to sit at a distance of 5 feet |
| with a few recommendations. | | | | or so. The larger the TV, the farther the area you |
| LCDs explained | | | | should view it from. |
| LCD is short for liquid crystal display. This refers to the | | | | Resolution |
| type of technology used on the screen of the TV to | | | | This is another gauge in which the best LCD TVs are |
| produce images. Thanks to backlighting, LCD TVs are | | | | measured. Resolution refers to the overall picture |
| better than older CRT models using fluorescent lights | | | | quality of the TV. The higher the number, the sharper |
| to produce a wider variety of colors. This is also the | | | | and clearer the image. High definition formats generally |
| technology that allows even distribution of light across | | | | range from about 720p to 1080p. |
| the whole screen, so overall brightness is consistent. | | | | However, if budget is a major concern, there's no need |
| Does size matter in TV? | | | | to pay extra for higher resolution. Even 720p LCDs |
| Apparently, it does. The best LCD TVs today are | | | | can already produce excellent images and reliable |
| those that offer a good range of sizes — from | | | | picture quality. The difference between a 720 and a |
| desktop computer-sized 15" units to more home | | | | 1080 is almost negligible especially if you have access |
| theater-friendly 70". Bigger units even come with tuners | | | | to shows with HD programming. |
| and surround sound speakers to better enhance the | | | | Brand |
| home theater experience. | | | | In some cases, brand loyalty matters when deciding |
| Picture quality | | | | which LCD TV is best. If you must consider the |
| Admittedly, even the best LCD TVs have visual | | | | manufacturer, look for top names such as Samsung, |
| performance issues they have to contend with. Some | | | | Sony, LG, Philips or Vizio. These brands have some of |
| of their main drawbacks are the low refresh rate | | | | the best models in the industry, with several premium |
| (leading to relatively slower response time), low | | | | offers available. |
| contrast ratio compared to plasma TVs and blurring | | | | Price |
| during fast action sequences. | | | | If you stick by a particular brand and consider a |
| However, LCD TV manufacturers are promising better | | | | larger-sized LCD TV, some of the best you'll find can |
| performance in the next generation LCD TVs. That | | | | set you back at least $700 for a decent-sized 32". |
| means, we can expect significantly higher response | | | | Bigger sizes starting at 37" can cost from about $1,500 |
| rates and tweaks that will resolve blurs during | | | | to $3,000. However, you could still shave off a few |
| high-speed car chases and fight scenes in future | | | | hundred dollars by opting for lesser-known brands that |
| models. | | | | are typically sold by distributors at stores like Target, |
| How to choose the best LCD TV | | | | Wal-Mart and Best Buy. You'll generally get the same |
| Here are some factors to consider: | | | | picture quality at about 15% to 20% less. |