Principally, there are three main things that you need to consider when buying a set of HDTV. The first is the screen kind and the second is the technology used. Then, check whether the HDTV is complemented with tuner or not.

HDTV Screen Types

There are two choices of HDTV screen kinds available to choose from. Standard size is the first kind that has a 4:3 ratio display, it is much like a normal TV. The other is wide screen that has a 16:9 ratio display. This type resembles movie theater screen and considered as standard format of HDTV. The screen sort is also recommended for watching HDTV shows.

HDTV Technologies

Direct view is the most usually used type that still using the standard Cathode Ray Tube (CRT). It has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless it will eventually become out of date as newer technologies are developed that give viewers more features, potential cost savings, clearer as well as brighter picture quality. This kind is quite pricey to manufacture thus the high price. It is also restricted to the size of screen with its largest being only 36 inches.

The newer technologies of HDTV like Plasma TVs, LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon), and DLP (Digital Light Processor). Just like with the Direct view technology, each of them has its own advantages as well as disadvantages. Nevertheless the fact can not be denied that these newer HDTV technologies can generate equally the same or better picture quality.

hdtv buying guide

hdtv buying guide

When it comes to the sizes, both Plasma TVs as well as LCDs have advantage. Generally they are available in compact form and mostly are only a few inches thick. It means that these sets weigh lesser and you’ll have more options as to where to place them around the house.

With or Without a Tuner

Some HDTV sets have an integrated tuner in them while other sets do not. Compared to the alternative sets, purchasing a set without the tuner is somehow the more advantageous choice for a few reasons. Predominantly, without an integrated tuner, manufacturers can keep the prices sets down. The sizes of these sets can still be compact.

The subsequent advantage of these sets is in terms of upgrading. Today, technology is rapidly developing. What is state-of-the art today may become out of date tomorrow. Having a separate tuner will help you avoid replacing the whole set with tuner when you decide to upgrade to a newer HDTV tuner technology.

Lastly, most of cable and satellite providers are indeed, will give you their own tuners. So, you don’t have to expend much money a HDTV and can get lots of savings.

Do you want to uplift your knowledge about HDTV? There is no better way for getting it unless finding it more here! Check out my other post Samsung 1080p HDTV and Peerless Wall Mount

Recommended LCD / Plasma HDTVs

Toshiba HDTV Samsung HDTV LG HDTV Sharp HDTV
Panasonic HDTV Sony HDTV Philips HDTV Vizio HDTV
Coby HDTV Sylvania HDTV Viore HDTV