Here are some thoughts on the benefits of choosing a Plasma HDTV. It should be remembered that these are general statements and will vary between makes and models.

Black/Contrast Levels

One of the most important factors and certainly what the experts always check first is that of black levels. Generally black Levels have traditionally been best on Plasma screens primarily due to the way that the screens create contrasts - LCDs will alter crystals to block light whereas Plasmas modify the power to each pixel - as such Plasma screens are usually far more effective at displaying blacks. The gap between the best plasmas and LCDs has certainly narrowed recently with some of the best LCD screens from Sony, Samsung and Panasonic rival the top plasma screens for the depths of their blacks and contrasts.

Angle of Viewing

The first LCD screens were very poor in this respect - basically you had to sit within a pretty narrow band to view the TV properly. Plasma screens have a much wider viewing angle (up to 160 degrees). Again the gap between the two formats has reduced dramatically with most LCD screens have pretty good viewing angles however is this is of a primary concern for you then generally Plasma TVs have the advantage.

Color Displays

A much closer call and in essence the winner in this respect is probably down to individual preferences. Plasma screens contain individual blue, green and red pixels so have potentially have an advantage creating accurate color depth but the LCD screens have an advantage of creating colors by modifying light and as such produce a brighter, clearer display that many individuals prefer.

Brightness

This is where the LCD screen is a clear winner - LCD can produce white light much more easily than plasmas and utilize much less power in doing so. This can lead to white and bright scenes looking much crisper on an LCD.

This is a very brief summary - but again it should be remembered that a bad plasma screen would lose in all categories to a quality LCD. But the above points are worth bearing in mind before you make your purchase.

Joe Simpson - Technology Specialist and Film Buff

Likes these Plasma screens for great value and performance.

Samsung LE40A656 - Panasonic TH42PX80

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