How to Buy an LCD Big Screen TV
- 1). Research current trends and technology. Perform relevant Internet searches to learn about the latest technology in LCD TVs. This will arm you with information so you don't feel overwhelmed when you visit a store and must interpret the technical "jargon" on the TV tags. Relevant terms to research are things like resolution, contrast ratio, power consumption, HD and Blu-Ray technology, and input types.
- 2). Choose the correct screen size. LCD screen sizes range from 19" to over 60". The size of your room and how close you intend to sit are the two factors that should be considered when choosing a screen size. In general, the closer you are to the TV, the smaller it should be. For a 32" TV, you should be four to eight feet away; for a 42" TV you should sit seven to 10 feet away. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the screen size by two to get a comfortable viewing range in inches. For larger TVs, you should sit at least 10 feet away. Buy the largest screen for your room that is within your budget.
- 3). Choose the correct resolution. Generally, TVs are either 720p or 1080p. This number refers to their resolution, or how many pixels they can display; a higher number is better. If you're buying a TV that is 32" or less, you probably won't see any difference between 720p and 1080p. However, for larger LCD TVs, 1080p is a requirement to get the best picture quality, especially when watching HD or Blu-Ray DVDs.
- 4). Research the best prices and don't be afraid to bargain. Once you've selected a model (or a range of models), search the Internet for the best prices. Visit price comparison Websites to see what online stores are charging. Often, you can get a better deal (and free shipping) from an online store. Conversely, an electronics store may price match the TV you desire if you show the sales associate the prices you found on the Internet.