Modern TVs

What is the difference between an HD Plasma television and an HD LCD television?

Public Comments

1. From the updates given to the monitors over the past few years, there really isn't much of a difference except personal preference. I think LCD can look better at it's highest capacity (1080p and with HDMI cables) than Plasma does, but I think Plasmas look better for watching non-HD television. You can read up on the differences on wikipedia. The screen burn stuff with plasma isn't true with today's plasmas. If you're purchasing one, know that Plasmas are less expensive at larger sizes (from 40inches and up they are cheeper). My vote goes to LCD TVs because if you're going to game or use an HD-movie player than why not get the best picture quality possible.
2. The difference is the technology used to create the picture. Plasma uses gas trapped in glass. When current is applied, the gas lights up. LCD uses a bright backlight and filters that light through an LCD screen that allows the light to pass through or not. This is all a very simple description, but that's the essence. In practical terms. Each has it's own advantages and disadvantages. Plasma is cheaper in large sizes, heavier, a bit dimmer, displays low light levels better, shows glare more, and has a tougher screen. LCD is more expensive in larger sizes, lighter, brighter, displays low light levels worse (different shades of black all look black, and not truly black), show glare less, and the screen is more subject to damage.
3. Warning: This is a warning you are not gonna get from the dealers or the manufactures. LCDs have very fragile, very breakable PLASTIC screens. Screens because there are two. The "inner" screen of my 7 mos. old Sony Bravia 42" is broken. Broken by a 34 lb., 3year old throwing an empty plastic cup. The screens are plastic because they can be and it prevents the screen from being reflective. It also makes them CHEAPER to make. No warranty, no repair. If you have children or children visit, do not buy LCDs. Plasma have a glass screen like all other TVs except LCDs. Both are cheap to operate depending on where you live: 3-41/2 cents/hour for plasma and 2-3 cent/hour for LCD. Plasma is better 42" or larger and in dark rooms or basements and for viewing sports. Most plasma brands also have anti-glare coatings. When I can get another $2000 together I will get plasma.