| When it comes to LCD TVs, Samsung currently | | | | LCD TV models today have refresher rates of 5ms. |
| produce arguably the best and most popular LCD TV | | | | Burn In: Plasma TVs are not well suited for the |
| models in the market. Panasonic on the other hand, | | | | display of static images. After prolonged use of |
| holds the reign when it comes to Plasma TVs. To put | | | | displaying static videos, they are prone to burn-in |
| it simply, if you are torn between buying a LCD and | | | | effects, where it will leave behind permanent video |
| Plasma HDTV, you will have to choose between and | | | | 'residues' on the screen, very much like a permanent |
| Samsung and Panasonic model. Here is a quick guide | | | | shadow on the screen. Newer models today have |
| to help you make your decision. | | | | significantly curbed this problem. LCDs on the other |
| Viewing Angle: Both Samsung LCD and Panasonic | | | | hand, are prone to a similar problem called "retained |
| Plasma TVs have similar viewing angles. Plasma TV's | | | | pixel charge" where a pixel (or a groups of pixels) |
| viewing angle can be as wide as 178 degrees, while | | | | remains discolored. Fortunately, this problem is fixable. |
| LCD TV's are up to 175 degrees. Although both | | | | Life Span: Most LCD models today last between |
| types of TVs have similar viewing angles, the images | | | | thirty thousand and sixty thousand hours. Plasma TVs |
| of Plasma TVs do not suffer from any degradation | | | | take around the same amount of time to reach 'half |
| of quality even when viewed from odd angles. LCDs | | | | life' (where the display fades to more than half of its |
| on the other hand, are best viewed from the front | | | | brightness). Recently, Panasonic has announced that |
| for the best visuals. | | | | its Plasma TVs can last up to 100'000 hours. |
| Refresh Rates: Traditionally, Plasma TVs have lighting | | | | Durability: Plasma TVs are generally heavier and a little |
| speed refresher rates, similar to the rates of CRT | | | | thicker than LCD TVs. Due to its weight; it is best to |
| televisions. LCDs on the other hand have much | | | | leave the installation process to the experts, |
| slower refresher rates, but recent technological | | | | especially if you plan to mount your Plasma on the |
| advancements have greatly improved the refresher | | | | wall. Plasmas are also more fragile, so extra care |
| rates of LCD TVs. Some high-end (and expensive) | | | | should be taken when transporting them. |