Plasma or LCD

[in a mo]

Could you please explain in plain English the difference between a Plasma and LCD Television .
Which one is best please
We are looking at a 32 inch
Thank you

[Ethel]

For that size LCD is the best, without a doubt.

[redman41]

Plasma TV's have Pixels made up with inert gas Chambers and LCD have Pixels made with Liquid crystal and Filters, also utilising a Backlight. There's more to it than this but that is the basis.
Panasonic are probably the leaders in the Field of Plasma TV's and Sony in LCD.
LCD Televisions are reputed to have a longer life than Plasma, so if you are to buy a new TV go for a reputable make. About 5 months ago I bought a Sony 40" HDTV (LCD) and it is superb. Panasonic have Plasma TV's with inbuilt Freesat which is very useful, but you would have to buy a Satellite Dish to receive the Signals. Go for a 1080 HD Ready TV as once Analogue has been done away with completely you will eventually get HD Channels on Freeview.
It's up to you which make of Television you prefer but if you are going to spend serious money on new equipment go for Sony or Panasonic. There are others of course but for me Sony is No1.

[paddiez]

Plasma is neon tube technology,over time it might need regassing,also the refresh rate is rather slow. LCD is liquid crystal.Lasts probably forever and has a high refresh rate. Though colour in plasma is better,nothing else. Go LCD

[Panic Button]

On TV a while ago they said that plasma TVs use a lot more power than LCD ones.

[Postdog]

and I read/heard they will eventually be banned for that reason.

How true I don't know

[heathfield]

Plasma TVs do use a lot of power. Feel the top of a working model, and you'll see how hot they get - that's where much of the power's going. They are also exceptionally heavy.
As for LCD TVs, there's a definite difference between HDTVs and HD Ready TVs, explained here.
Also, look for a really high contrast ratio. Cheaper LCD TVs might offer 1000:1, but up to 100,000:1 can be found..

[Toleman]

I know everyone has their own opinion regarding the leading brand but I would say the Samsung's are better than the sonys.

The sonys tv's suffer from clouding.

Go to av forums (website) and you will find plenty of help on there,