The LCD TV Buying Guide

Buying an LCD TV can be overwhelming due to the numerous options available. Apart from considering the visual quality, it is important to pay attention to features such as contrast ratio, refresh rate, HDMI ports, and more. Here are some tips to help you determine which TV is the best choice for you.

LCD TVs generally come in two levels of picture quality known as “720p” and “1080p”. A 720p TV offers high-definition picture with clarity that falls between standard definition and full HD. A 1080p set provides the highest resolution for HD programming and movies. While 720p sets are more affordable, they can still deliver a good picture if the TV’s other specifications are of sufficient quality.

Contrast ratio is a measure used by TV manufacturers to describe how well a set displays colors in low-light or dark scenes. While advertised contrast ratios can be subjective, in general, a higher number is better. A good minimum contrast ratio is 4,000:1. Anything lower than that, and the blacks and shadows on the screen may appear muddy or gray.

Refresh rate refers to how quickly the picture frames are replayed. The more times the picture frame is replayed per second, the less blurring occurs. If measured in hertz (Hz), a satisfactory refresh rate is 50 Hz. The higher the number, the better fast-paced scenes will look on the screen. For the best visuals in capturing fast motion scenes (such as in video games), choose a set with a minimum of 100 Hz.

If you can afford it, opt for an LED-LCD TV. LED backlighting is a special type of screen lighting that allows for deeper blacks, richer colors, and better contrast. LED lighting is the latest technology in LCD TVs and offers superior picture quality compared to standard LCD sets. However, they are usually more expensive than non-LED TVs.

The number of HDMI ports your TV has is also important. HDMI cables combine high-definition video and audio data into a single cable, reducing the number of cords connected to your set. If you are only planning to watch TV shows, two HDMI ports should suffice. However, if you intend to connect other peripherals such as a Blu-ray player or game console, look for a TV with at least three HDMI ports.

Price is a significant consideration when buying an LCD TV. TVs larger than 40 inches with good specifications can be found for under $1,000, and it is possible to get a decent 42-inch, full HD TV for around $500. As mentioned earlier, LED-LCD sets tend to be more expensive. Expect to pay a few hundred dollars more for an LED-lit set compared to a standard one.

Now that you understand the basics of LCD TVs, evaluate how a set looks in the store. The store’s lighting conditions can often make sets appear better than they actually are. Familiarize yourself with the specifications, and you will be able to find a good TV that offers value for your money.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME