Plasma or LCD

[The QuietMan]

I am thinking of getting a 42 inch TV, but am not sure whether to get LCD or Plasma. I can get a Samsung Plasma or an LG LCD for roughly the same price. Which is better for this size of screen? Also, what does the Contrast ratio represent for each?

[nuoyg]

I was told (can't remember who by) that up to 42 inches you should get an lcd and then over it should be a plasma. Don't know if it's true though and I am not entirely sure what that would mean if you want the 42 inch tv. You should also have a screen that size a certain amount of feet away from where you'll be seated as the screen will not be very clear.

Have you had a look at their ratings etc to help you determine? Or had a chat with someone in the shop to see what they say and then make your decision...

[Marvelman]

LCD is by far the best, Plasma is a dead duck now, many of the top tv makers dont do plasma anymore, if you ask in the shop they will tell you to have plasma just to get rid of them.

[tickledtrout]

I was told the same as nuoyg on both size, type and distance away from tv

[Llamatron]

Plasmas produce the best picture but they run hotter, use more power and the last time I checked Pioneer had the only one that would do 1080p and it's a 50inch screen for a whopping �5500.

[almcd007]

I dont understand anyone who says that LCD is better over plasma - only maybe Stevie Wonder !!

The picture is infinitely better than an LCD every day of the week.

Go to Currys or somewhere - get them to put the same size LCD next to a plasma and look for yourself.

[spaced]

as a friend to a very good LCD and Plasma TV engineer, LCD is definately better. Remember Plasma loses its quality overtime, where LCD tv doesnt. Plasma are more costly to replace and repair.

[almcd007]

No you just have to put up with pixels dropping out, not being able to look at it from any angle but straight at it and pixelation magnified - I've had a plasma 4 and half years with no loss of quality and dont subscribe to the view that LCD is better through experience not through word of mouth.

[Mattk]

almcd007 the big stores use one feed for all their displays and therefore do not give a true indication of picture quality.

as you have plasma you seem to be biased in its favour but i seriously doubt a 4 year plasma is anywhere near as good as a brand new lcd.

[Mattk]

btw i can view my lcd from almost 180' and still see what it is showing.

[almcd007]

Get them to play a HD DVD on it then !! - if your paying a load of money they'll be happy to do that it's still a no brainer - I've seen a pic on an LCD large screen and don't see the point.

I have a 21inch LCD in the kitchen and Bedroom and can see the difference thanks - my money would be on a plasma any day.

[Llamatron]

My younger brother has a 40inch Samsung LCD TV and I have 42inch Pioneer plasma tellie. He showed me Gladiator played by his upscaling Pioneer DVD player. I was not impressed. The image looked oddly blocky and pixellated and the colours looked slightly washed out.

I'd take my plasma over his LCD any day.

[Sozzie]

We have a 40" Sony Bravia LCD TV and the picture quality is fantastic, especially BBC channels.