Difference between Plasma vs LCD vs LED
In this day and age, there are many different types of television available. This website will help you simplify the purchasing process so that you pick the right television, for the right purpose. There are currently three main types of TVs in the market: Plasma TV, LCD TV, and LED TV. Most recently, a nwe model known as 3D TVs have entered the market. So how do you decide on which TV to buy? First and foremost, it is importance to know the differences between the Plasma vs LCD vs LED TVs. For example, Plasma TVs are typically well-built for displays that are a minimum of thirty inches or larger. They have superior contrast ratios as opposed to LCD TVs.
What are the differences between Plasma vs LCD TVs
This is a tricky one. In technical terms, the Plasma and LCD TVs both uses technologies that are capable of achieving similar features as well as coming in similar packages. In terms of picture quality, Plasma TVs have a slight edge over LCD TVs. Plasma TVs are known to have a better display in low light room conditions, while LCD TVs have better displays in bright light conditions. Result: Dark room, go for Plasma TVs, room with constant light, go for LCD TVs.
Some people like to connect their computers to their TVs and make use of the large display screen. In such a case, the LCD TV definitely has an advantage over the Plasma TV. LCD TVs display static images a lot better than Plasma TVs. Also, LCD TVs are known to have a higher number of pixels per square inch, therefore if you have a lot of things happening on your screen, then the LCD TV will probably display a clearer image than the Plasma TV. That said, the differences in picture quality are not that noticeable when comparing the best TV models.
Are you a sports fan? Are you buying a new TV, especially for the upcoming Super bowl or the World Cup Finals? When watching sports, Plasma TVs tend to have the edge over the LCD TVs. Plasma TVs perform excellently when it comes to fast-moving images, hence everything will appear more clearly. LCD TVs are slowly catching up, but one can, from time to time, detect motion blurs during fast moving scenes. Motion blurs occur when the TV is not able to represent a single frame during a particular time period. As a result, videos of athletes running may appear slightly blurry with low-quality TVs. Result: For avid sports fans, go for Plasma TVs.
LED vs LCD TVs
Next, we have a look at the differences between LED and LCD TVs. In all honesty, there are very minimal differences. The one significant difference is the backlight. LED TVs use LED lights for back lights, while LCD TVs use fluorescent CFL lighting. In terms of picture quality, there isn't that much of a difference, but LED TVs have a slight advantage in displaying realistic colors because of their colored backlights.
Plasma vs LED TVs
The difference between a Plasma and LED TV more or less has the same differences between a Plasma and LCD TV. One significant difference however is the bulkiness of the TV frame and the level of energy consumption. Plasma TVs are known to have a bulkier frame, as well as consuming a higher level of electricity. That said, an average Plasma TV has greater picture depth. Therefore, if you are not too worried about energy consumption in the long run then a Plasma TV would be considered a better choice.
Overall Summary
These days, Plasma TVs have the best picture depth, however they last shorter than LED and LCD TVs in terms of their life spans. Again the differences in quality between Plasma vs. LCD vs. LED TVs are not hugely noticeable but in general, it is better to go for a Plasma TV, especially if you are looking for a large and wide television. For functional uses (e.g. gaming, computer monitors), I would also consider the LED or LCD TVs.
| Advantages | Disadvantages | |
| Plasma TVs | * Large screen availability * Better color accuracy and saturation * Better contrast ratios |
* Generates more heat * Shorter life span * Susceptible to burn-ins (static) |
| LED TVs LCD TVs |
* No burn-in of static images * Generates less heat, much cooler * Increased image brightness * Lighter in weight * Longer life span |
* Lower contrast ratio * Not good with fast motion * Typically more expensive |
Now that you understand the basic features of each TV, feel free to have a look at the top 5 TVs for each technology. Please note that we may have missed out on the latest TVs in the market so always check your local technology store before you purchase your brand new television.
1. Top 3 Plasma Televisions in the Market