Choosing an HDTV

Confused by HDTV specs and lingo? Get a grip on the key features to consider when choosing an HDTV, including screen size, TV type, resolution, and contrast ratio.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• HDTV
• LCD
• plasma
• 1080p
• contrast
• contrast ratio
• resolution
• screen size
• viewing distance
• TV
• television
• HD
• hi def
• high def
• high definition
• black level
• flat panel
• pixel
• fixed-pixel
• native resolution
• 720p
• 1080i
• Crutchfield

[thebeetalls]

What is your opinion on the Samsung PN43D430? ~80% of the time the TV will be used for gaming in a dimly lit "cave", and I figured the plasma would do well there. It looks like its probably the best deal out there for us, but If you have any other suggestions on a sub-$500 40+ incher, I'd love to hear them.

[crutchfieldtv]

@thebeetalls We do not offer the “430” model ourselves, but if it’s a Samsung product, you can be sure it’s very good quality. We offer the PN43D450 model which still suits your requirements and budget. Simply type our item number (30543D450) into the search window on the Crutchfield website. You can also call for additional assistance: 800.315.0030—Crutchfield

[lhart99]

To continue from my last comment, I am concerned because I want to purchase a 50 inch plasma television. As you can imagine, I don't want to dish out almost $2,000 knowing there is a extremely high % of this happening to me. I understand that the buzzing sound is from the fluorescent lights, ect, ect. Anyway, I'm wondering if anyone has any advice, comments, or suggestions. Should I still lean towards a Samsung or is there something better I should look at.

[crutchfieldtv]

@lhart99

The best TV for gaming, for you is one that fits where you want to put it, has the connections you need, fits in your budget, and looks good to your eyes. I know that sounds kind of smart alek, but it's true.

You can't go wrong with plasma or LCD in general, you certainly want to get one that is 1080p, and if you go LCD, get one with a 120 or 24-hz refresh rate.

Call an Advisor at Crutchfield for a specific recommendation for you.

CrutchfieldTV

800 315 0030

[kb4521]

that was really helpful, and that chick was pretty cute

[superjervis]

good info...and i dunno why this guy reminds me of the Geico caveman:)

[Bluedrake42]

yes... these are incredibly informative thank you very much

[Dereklikescarrots]

this looks like a failed high school commercial project that students had to make for some movie class that they are taking, except that the students here about as old as my parents

[EpiclsME]

When I bought a new HDTV, it was really easy. I looked up the #1 rated HDTV on the market, then I looked up the largest size it comes in, then I bought it.

Check out my channel for my 65" 3D TV and gaming setup. This setup is unmatchable to any other TV setup anyone can physically own at the moment.

[DjGibsonify]

Very helpful thanks !

[TheMattFrom1996]

@lhart99 Hey mate the higher the "hz" the better response time and less lag you will receive (this is great for fast action scenes and gaming). Also if youre looking for features you need to hook up youre computer to youre tv (or vice versa) you should look out for a vga port that will plug into youre computer and (if youre computer is modern enough) a hdmi port. Hope this helped =)

[larryadam2]

Hey what is the best tv out for gaming.