The Difference between Plasma, LCD.

The beloved but bulky cathode-ray tube TVs found in most homes today are fast becoming antiques. Prices on the newer think TVs are falling. But what’s the difference between these two large screen technologies?

Plasma TVs

Also known as PDPs, short for plasma display panels.

Best for: Wider viewing angle, higher contrast and lower price

Need to Know: “Burn-in”, when images like a network logo leave a lasting mark on the screen, is rarely an issue these days because of new software,. Check the TV’s lifetime, measured in hours. Pioneer touts 60,000 hours for its plasmas, equivalent to leaving the TV on 24 hours a day for seven years. But who does that?

LCD TVs

LCD, or liquid crystal display, is the same technology in flat computer monitors

Best for: High-resolution screen when you need extra detail. Can double as a computer display.

Need to Know: Tend to lag during fast-action scenes, although this has improved with displays offering eight millisecond response times.